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The Everyday Heroes World
Constraint
S.L. Sterling’s Constraint is a sexy, emotionally charged, slow burn second chance contemporary romance written in K. Bromberg’s Everyday Heroes World project.
Bailey Scott had been my world from the time I was fifteen. I had always thought we could make it through whatever life threw at us. But I was wrong.
Everything changed in an instant on that Fourth of July weekend, five years ago. Her brother had been shot and killed in the line of duty that weekend, and his killer had gotten away. I spent my days buried in work trying to track down his killer, while she sat at home blaming everyone for what had happened, including me, his partner. Unfortunately, the blame drove a rift between us that neither of us knew how to fix, ending our relationship.
I was always told that time healed everything. It had been five years. In that time, I spent my days at work, my nights with women trying to release the hold Bailey still had on me, all the guilt I’ve felt from that night, that it should have been me and not him who was taken that day.
Then one night I was called to Hooligan’s Bar to break up another bar fight. That was when I saw her, Bailey Scott, the girl who’d ripped my heart out. She had finally returned, and from the time I’d laid eyes on her, I knew I would have to do whatever it took to win her back.
Bailey Scott had been my world from the time I was fifteen. I had always thought we could make it through whatever life threw at us. But I was wrong.
Everything changed in an instant on that Fourth of July weekend, five years ago. Her brother had been shot and killed in the line of duty that weekend, and his killer had gotten away. I spent my days buried in work trying to track down his killer, while she sat at home blaming everyone for what had happened, including me, his partner. Unfortunately, the blame drove a rift between us that neither of us knew how to fix, ending our relationship.
I was always told that time healed everything. It had been five years. In that time, I spent my days at work, my nights with women trying to release the hold Bailey still had on me, all the guilt I’ve felt from that night, that it should have been me and not him who was taken that day.
Then one night I was called to Hooligan’s Bar to break up another bar fight. That was when I saw her, Bailey Scott, the girl who’d ripped my heart out. She had finally returned, and from the time I’d laid eyes on her, I knew I would have to do whatever it took to win her back.
- GenresSecond Chance
129 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 19, 2021
17 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
S.L. Sterling
70 books3,585 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author S.L. Sterling was born and raised in southern Ontario.
An avid reader all her life, S.L. Sterling dreamt of becoming an author. She decided to give writing a try after one of her favorite authors launched a course on how to write your novel. This course gave her the push she needed to put pen to paper and her debut novel "It Was Always You" was born.
When S.L. Sterling isn't writing or plotting her next novel she can be found curled up with a cup of coffee, blanket and the newest romance novel from one of her favorite authors.
In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, sunny destinations, spending quality time with family and friends and of course reading.
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An avid reader all her life, S.L. Sterling dreamt of becoming an author. She decided to give writing a try after one of her favorite authors launched a course on how to write your novel. This course gave her the push she needed to put pen to paper and her debut novel "It Was Always You" was born.
When S.L. Sterling isn't writing or plotting her next novel she can be found curled up with a cup of coffee, blanket and the newest romance novel from one of her favorite authors.
In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, sunny destinations, spending quality time with family and friends and of course reading.
Amazon: https://geni.us/SterlingAmazon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearomance
Instagram: https://geni.us/SLSterlingInstagram
Twitter: https://geni.us/SLSterlingTwitter
Bookbub: https://geni.us/SLSterlingBookbub
Sterlings Silver Sapphires: https://geni.us/SapphiresReaderGroup
Newsletter Signup: https://geni.us/GRNewsletterSignUp
Goodreads: https://geni.us/SterlingGoodreads
Tiktok: https://geni.us/slsterlingtiktok
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 34 reviews
July 20, 2021
The Everyday heroes World
Bailey Scott was on a dinner date with her boyfriend thinking he was gonna propose and instead broke up with her. When her best friend Cara calls and wants her to come back home to help with her wedding Bailey goes. She hasn't been back in 5 years since the tragedy involving her brother.
Jackson was Bailey's forever and she was his until the tragedy stuck and then she walked out of his life. He hasn't forgotten her but he has guilt and won't give up his job as a cop as he continues to look for the killer.
But now they are thrown together for the wedding and have to put aside everything and all Jackson wants is to win her back.
This is an emotional tug at your heart strings and you ache for what could have been.
5 stars
Bailey Scott was on a dinner date with her boyfriend thinking he was gonna propose and instead broke up with her. When her best friend Cara calls and wants her to come back home to help with her wedding Bailey goes. She hasn't been back in 5 years since the tragedy involving her brother.
Jackson was Bailey's forever and she was his until the tragedy stuck and then she walked out of his life. He hasn't forgotten her but he has guilt and won't give up his job as a cop as he continues to look for the killer.
But now they are thrown together for the wedding and have to put aside everything and all Jackson wants is to win her back.
This is an emotional tug at your heart strings and you ache for what could have been.
5 stars
August 18, 2021
Loved this second chance story with Bailey and Jackson. I loved the push and pull between them. They have a shared pain and I was taken on a journey while they reconnected, dealt with emotions and some intense moments that were mixed in. There is sweet, heat and some heart pounding times. The story works well and I loved these characters.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 22, 2021
OMG amazeballs, this book has the high intensity, lost love, police officers, bad guys that eventually get caught, friendship, camaraderie, family, love found again, I loved this book, laughing and crying, I have voluntarily read and review this ARC, thank you for the privilege, Dana Zamora
July 24, 2021
Got this as an ARC. So glad I got to read it! Following the love of Bailey and Jackson as they try to work through the horrible incidents they’ve been put through. One minute I found myself laughing, then the next tears were running down my face. A must read for anyone that likes love with some twists worked in. Can Bailey and Jackson forgive themselves for the past? Will They open up to each other once and for all? Read to find out!
July 21, 2021
An exciting second chance romance with a mystery twist. The heartfelt anguish felt by Bailey and Jackson is palpable but learning to trust each other is a road to be travelled if they are to be together. Highly recommend.
August 15, 2021
An absolutely captivating story with an amazing storyline and characters. I was hooked straight away and held throughout the whole story. I loved the characters and the storyline itself was incredible. I was desperate to know what happened next but I didn't want the story to end either. I loved it so much.
August 19, 2021
The story of Bailey and Jackson will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, from crying to laughing that is the heart of this story. Bailey checked out on life, her boyfriend , family and hometown when her brother was killed. Five years down the road she is back in town to restart her life after another set back. She can't help but bump into Jackson and he is putting everything on the line to have a second chance with Bailey. Heart wrenching at times this story will show us a reality that is present and I only wished the story was longer. It was my pleasure to volunteer to review this story.
August 16, 2021
This book by S.L. Sterling is part of K. Bromberg's Every Day Heroes World and tells the story of Bailey and Jackson.
Both share a past, no they share more than a past, they were enganed when the unthinable happened and her brother was kia. Their relationship suffered greatly and Bailey left. Left Jackson and left her hometown. Now, 5 years later she's about to start the next chapter in her life, only that doesn't happen like she expected. Instead she's back home, gets a job there, is living with her mom - and she can't avoid Jackson.
A heart-wrenching second chances story, a beautiful read that gives all the feels, highly emotional. I connected so so easily with the characters, loved the writing and the storyline, 4,5 beautiful stars.
Both share a past, no they share more than a past, they were enganed when the unthinable happened and her brother was kia. Their relationship suffered greatly and Bailey left. Left Jackson and left her hometown. Now, 5 years later she's about to start the next chapter in her life, only that doesn't happen like she expected. Instead she's back home, gets a job there, is living with her mom - and she can't avoid Jackson.
A heart-wrenching second chances story, a beautiful read that gives all the feels, highly emotional. I connected so so easily with the characters, loved the writing and the storyline, 4,5 beautiful stars.
August 6, 2021
Bailey moved back to town after a bad break up and her friend getting married. The one thing she wasn't looking forward to was seeing Jackson, her ex fiancee again.
This was a great story about second chances and recovering from guilt and PTSD.
Dramatic and intense, Bailey is on a journey to forgiveness and self discovery to find happiness.
I did like the relationship between Bailey and Jackson, a little tentative at times and sort of like walking on a tightrope. It certainly had its struggles.
A very well written book, with interesting characters and back up characters also. Great story!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
This was a great story about second chances and recovering from guilt and PTSD.
Dramatic and intense, Bailey is on a journey to forgiveness and self discovery to find happiness.
I did like the relationship between Bailey and Jackson, a little tentative at times and sort of like walking on a tightrope. It certainly had its struggles.
A very well written book, with interesting characters and back up characters also. Great story!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
August 13, 2021
This story has just about everything you could want. Second chances, drama, romance, and the suspense of what could happen next will keep you reading till the end. Even after it ends you keep wanting to turn the page hoping for more. Jackson and Bailey’s connection is intense and you feel it all. Grab this addition to a terrific series. You will not be disappointed.
July 20, 2021
Received and ARC for honest review.
OMG this one caught my attention right off and had me crying throughout. I finished it in one sitting I was so hooked. Definately recommend this book. Especially if you like a little heart strings tugged.
OMG this one caught my attention right off and had me crying throughout. I finished it in one sitting I was so hooked. Definately recommend this book. Especially if you like a little heart strings tugged.
not-for-me
September 8, 2023Self note:
- Second chance
- Snippet from the blurb: "It had been five years. In that time, I spent my days at work, my nights with women trying to release the hold Bailey still had on me" Ewwww, pass! 🤮
- Second chance
- Snippet from the blurb: "It had been five years. In that time, I spent my days at work, my nights with women trying to release the hold Bailey still had on me" Ewwww, pass! 🤮
July 19, 2021
I loved all of the characters in this book. Jackson and Bailey are perfect together. The added mystery behind Connor’s death made this a real page turner. I couldn’t put it down.
July 28, 2021
I really loved this book! This love story wasn’t like the typical ones I read. It was suspenseful and so much anticipation it had me glued. You will fall in love with Jackson! This is another great book by S.L. Sterling.
August 19, 2021
This book will hit you in the feels both heartwarming and heartbreaking - it has love, lust, heartache, lost, intrigue, murders and a wedding. It has leaving home when things are too painful and coming back home to loved ones. It is also about second chances for Bailey and Jackson.
August 20, 2021
Disappointing execution to a promising premise.
1.5/5 - Fell flat. Ending was rushed and sloppy. Several grammatical and spelling error as well.
Compared to the other books in this series, I felt this one fell short in every aspect. The premise was intriguing, but I found as I kept reading that I was getting less and less interested. The characters felt juvenile and one dimensional. Even the side characters came off as entirely too meddlesome to the point of annoyance.
The chemistry between Jackson and Bailey was severely lacking regardless of their history. Although I’d have to say that Jackson’s “sleeping with the entire town” had a lot to do with my finding an absence of chemistry. Granted Bailey was the one who bailed and he was in fact a free man at the time, I can’t fully condone nor accept the machismo act of drowning ones sorrows in multiple partners. It just kills the romance dead for me. If he was so easy to have other women warm his bed then he never truly loved Bailey in the first place. The whole relationship is tainted from then on and in my opinion irretrievable.
Of course this is solely my opinion on this particular relationship. I would say the same about Bailey had it been a reverse situation. It just didn’t seem like anything was resolved between the two of them. Their communication is still absolute crap and the proposal seemed like a desperate Hail Mary attempt to salvage the relationship.
1.5/5 - Fell flat. Ending was rushed and sloppy. Several grammatical and spelling error as well.
Compared to the other books in this series, I felt this one fell short in every aspect. The premise was intriguing, but I found as I kept reading that I was getting less and less interested. The characters felt juvenile and one dimensional. Even the side characters came off as entirely too meddlesome to the point of annoyance.
The chemistry between Jackson and Bailey was severely lacking regardless of their history. Although I’d have to say that Jackson’s “sleeping with the entire town” had a lot to do with my finding an absence of chemistry. Granted Bailey was the one who bailed and he was in fact a free man at the time, I can’t fully condone nor accept the machismo act of drowning ones sorrows in multiple partners. It just kills the romance dead for me. If he was so easy to have other women warm his bed then he never truly loved Bailey in the first place. The whole relationship is tainted from then on and in my opinion irretrievable.
Of course this is solely my opinion on this particular relationship. I would say the same about Bailey had it been a reverse situation. It just didn’t seem like anything was resolved between the two of them. Their communication is still absolute crap and the proposal seemed like a desperate Hail Mary attempt to salvage the relationship.
July 25, 2021
Second Chances and Smoke Signals
Bailey and Jackson were the "it" couple. You know the ones- the couples that everyone is sure will make it because their souls are obviously connected. But when tragedy struck, their relationship was collateral damage.
Bailey moved away and spent the last five years trying to move on. Most of that time was with a man she thought could make her happy for life. He's the kind of guy that really knows how to make things memorable. Like Valentine's Day dinner. Trust me, you don't want to miss it.
Jackson stayed in their hometown, continued in law enforcement, and tried to get over the nightmares (and Bailey). His chosen method for moving on was to sleep with every available woman. Ahhh, male logic... testosterone driven.
The combination of angst, bittersweet, grit, and pure attraction is a heady mixture. Jackson, although he starts out sounding like not such a great guy, is actually a wonderful character. He's strong, loyal, smart, determined, and incredibly patient. The ancillary characters are also quite enjoyable in their own ways.
But for some reason, I struggled with Bailey. She seemed a bit emotionally immature, all things considered. She sent out constant signals to Jackson, but they were decidedly mixed, like a traffic light on the fritz. I really felt for the guy, and wanted someone to shake Bailey a bit. She was likable, don't get me wrong. I just would have preferred a bit more of an ability to see beyond herself at times. Very likely, though, this won't bother most readers a bit.
Together, Bailey and Jackson are beautiful, passionate, deep. They sizzle and pop like live wires connecting unexpectedly. Theirs is a rich and vibrant love, and well worth the read.
Bailey and Jackson were the "it" couple. You know the ones- the couples that everyone is sure will make it because their souls are obviously connected. But when tragedy struck, their relationship was collateral damage.
Bailey moved away and spent the last five years trying to move on. Most of that time was with a man she thought could make her happy for life. He's the kind of guy that really knows how to make things memorable. Like Valentine's Day dinner. Trust me, you don't want to miss it.
Jackson stayed in their hometown, continued in law enforcement, and tried to get over the nightmares (and Bailey). His chosen method for moving on was to sleep with every available woman. Ahhh, male logic... testosterone driven.
The combination of angst, bittersweet, grit, and pure attraction is a heady mixture. Jackson, although he starts out sounding like not such a great guy, is actually a wonderful character. He's strong, loyal, smart, determined, and incredibly patient. The ancillary characters are also quite enjoyable in their own ways.
But for some reason, I struggled with Bailey. She seemed a bit emotionally immature, all things considered. She sent out constant signals to Jackson, but they were decidedly mixed, like a traffic light on the fritz. I really felt for the guy, and wanted someone to shake Bailey a bit. She was likable, don't get me wrong. I just would have preferred a bit more of an ability to see beyond herself at times. Very likely, though, this won't bother most readers a bit.
Together, Bailey and Jackson are beautiful, passionate, deep. They sizzle and pop like live wires connecting unexpectedly. Theirs is a rich and vibrant love, and well worth the read.
August 22, 2021
Constraint is a second chance romance which is an emotional Journey. Bailey and Jackson are carrying the same guilt and have to really see each other and let go of the guilt. It was great to see how they navigate their back to each other.
"If you think you're the only one who carries guilt
around with you that night, you're wrong, Bailey."
Blurb:
Bailey Scott had been my world from the time I was fifteen. I had always thought we could make it through whatever life threw at us. But I was wrong.
Everything changed in an instant on that Fourth of July weekend, five years ago. Her brother had been shot and killed in the line of duty that weekend, and his killer had gotten away. I spent my days buried in work trying to track down his killer, while she sat at home blaming everyone for what had happened, including me, his partner. Unfortunately, the blame drove a rift between us that neither of us knew how to fix, ending our relationship.
I was always told that time healed everything. It had been five years. In that time, I spent my days at work, my nights with women trying to release the hold Bailey still had on me, all the guilt I’ve felt from that night, that it should have been me and not him who was taken that day.
Then one night I was called to Hooligan’s Bar to break up another bar fight. That was when I saw her, Bailey Scott, the girl who’d ripped my heart out. She had finally returned, and from the time I’d laid eyes on her, I knew I would have to do whatever it took to win her back
"If you think you're the only one who carries guilt
around with you that night, you're wrong, Bailey."
Blurb:
Bailey Scott had been my world from the time I was fifteen. I had always thought we could make it through whatever life threw at us. But I was wrong.
Everything changed in an instant on that Fourth of July weekend, five years ago. Her brother had been shot and killed in the line of duty that weekend, and his killer had gotten away. I spent my days buried in work trying to track down his killer, while she sat at home blaming everyone for what had happened, including me, his partner. Unfortunately, the blame drove a rift between us that neither of us knew how to fix, ending our relationship.
I was always told that time healed everything. It had been five years. In that time, I spent my days at work, my nights with women trying to release the hold Bailey still had on me, all the guilt I’ve felt from that night, that it should have been me and not him who was taken that day.
Then one night I was called to Hooligan’s Bar to break up another bar fight. That was when I saw her, Bailey Scott, the girl who’d ripped my heart out. She had finally returned, and from the time I’d laid eyes on her, I knew I would have to do whatever it took to win her back
August 19, 2021
This is a fantastic addition to this amazing series and is Jackson and Bailey’s story. These two were destined to be together, until fate steps in and derails their relationship. Bailey leaves town after a devastating tragedy and losing her brother, while Jackson is a police officer, and he is determined to find the killer of his best friend and partner. Now 5-years later Bailey is back, and he is determined to pursue her and convince her to give them a 2nd chance. Is it too late? This is a well written flawless story which is emotionally charged, is a slow burn with guilt, loss, healing, twists, family, friendships, humor, and love, which leads to a steamy and riveting page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
August 20, 2021
It’s been five years since a tragedy resulted in Bailey ending her engagement and leaving her hometown for a fresh start. When she reaches a crossroads in her life she decides to return home and help her best friend celebrate her wedding even if it means facing the only man she has truly loved.
Jackson is police officer who remembers the night that he lost his partner, friend and fiancé’s brother like it happened yesterday. Now that Bailey has returned, they soon realize that the chemistry and connection between them is stronger than ever but will they be able to overcome the pain of the past so they can have a future together?
This is an emotional story about two people who have always belonged together who help each other heal from the tragic loss they both shared.
Jackson is police officer who remembers the night that he lost his partner, friend and fiancé’s brother like it happened yesterday. Now that Bailey has returned, they soon realize that the chemistry and connection between them is stronger than ever but will they be able to overcome the pain of the past so they can have a future together?
This is an emotional story about two people who have always belonged together who help each other heal from the tragic loss they both shared.
August 19, 2021
This one will leave you a little emotional. Bailey and Jackson went up in flames after her brother was killed in the line of duty. Both blame themselves for his death and their relationship falls apart. After five long years, Bailey comes back to town and the two try to start fresh. There is a lot of baggage to overcome. It's nice to see them try to work through it all instead of just ignoring it. Overall a good journey to a happy ending.
August 23, 2021
Jackson and Bailey shared a union based on camaraderie and love. A heartbreaking event devastates them, leaving them floundering in loss and grief. Their struggles break them apart. The years may have passed but emotions once more begin to intensify, their love reawakened. However recriminations, drama and unfinished business continue to impact their relationship. A story of loss, healing, friendship, family and romance makes for a good read.
August 31, 2021
3.5*
This was a good quick second chance romance. Bailey and Jackson were engaged until the tragic death of her brother, Jackson's partner put a strain on their relationship and Bailey moved away. A couple years later Bailey finds herself back in her hometown. When she comes face to face with Jackson both characters still have feeling for each other. A good story just wished their was a little more to it.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review.
This was a good quick second chance romance. Bailey and Jackson were engaged until the tragic death of her brother, Jackson's partner put a strain on their relationship and Bailey moved away. A couple years later Bailey finds herself back in her hometown. When she comes face to face with Jackson both characters still have feeling for each other. A good story just wished their was a little more to it.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review.
July 19, 2021
A sweet second chance romance that will leave your heart full! This is a super quick read but full of the feels! Jackson and Bailey were separated by tragedy but their reunion was oh so sweet! I would have loved for this to be a full length novel but I felt fulfilled with the novella as well. Very well written.
September 22, 2021
This story has just about everything you could want. Second chances, drama, romance, and the suspense of what could happen next will keep you reading till the end. Even after it ends you keep wanting to turn the page hoping for more. Jackson and Bailey’s connection is intense and you feel it all. Grab this addition to a terrific series. You will not be disappointed.
August 19, 2021
A heart-wrenching second chances story, a beautiful read that gives all the feels, highly emotional. I connected so so easily with the characters, loved the writing and the storyline, 4,5 beautiful stars.
August 20, 2021
Great read. I truly enjoyed reading this book. The characters and plot were on point. The author did a great job.
September 7, 2021
Honestly, urgh.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 34 reviews