The Heart of Us

Love in Isolation #4

by Kennedy Fox

What happens when you’re on the run from your psycho ex-husband and your sexy younger boss goes into hiding with you to keep you safe? You slowly remember what it’s like to fall in love and hope he feels it too.

The Heart of Us is an older woman/younger man age gap, close proximity standalone romance.

Genres: Romance, Forced Proximity, Contemporary, Friends To Lovers, Age Gap Romance, Workplace Romance, Audiobook

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 15, 2022

About the author

Brooke Cumberland and Lyra Parish are a duo of romance authors under the USA Today pseudonym, Kennedy Fox. Their characters will make you blush and your heart melt. Cowboys in tight jeans are their kryptonite. They always guarantee a happily ever after!

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Reviews

[crystal · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75!

easton is so down bad for tatum! i was obsessed!! the way he cared and did literally everything to protect her was so sweet argh:( these two were so adorable & im so happy they got their happily ever after <3

[TMR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Note 2: Though this is a standalone, please read previous books in order as various characters do make cameos.

Trigger warnings: domestic violence, assault, attempted murder, death, fertility issues.

Easton and Tatum both have a fiery connection and emotional understanding which stands to rival another book with characters like that.

But with any romance comes demons and past hesitations.

For one thing they’re ages apart - 8 years. Two she carries past baggage and he doesn’t. 3. He’s a playboy (slight), she isn’t.

After having had a difficult marriage with a narcissistic ex and getting pregnant, Tatum flees and runs straight into Easton (who was introduced in previous books) who then helps her out hide and build a better life for herself.

Along the way they become friends and business partners.

But you know what also happens - Cupid throws an arrow into their rear ends.

Easton knows what he wants but she hesitates. Like aren’t the problems obvious?

But because Easton is so damn charming handsome and caring and sweet he doesn’t let her baggage get in her way. Instead encouraging her on to build on her dreams and desires and who knows to even love him too. And Tatum is just as kind and caring about him which it makes it even more sweet when it all happens.

Love does happen but so do demons from the past. And boy do these prove that their love is stronger than anything and will not let anything stand in their way.

And god was I in love cause of that. I mean I wanted that kinda love - despite being a grinch - cause Kennedy fox won me mind body and soul. The writing was so epic and flowery and strong and so emotional - got me all like woah damn I need more already. Plus the steam, emotions, Tristan and piper ugh they were such good friends - that this novel won me even more.

Holy shit all I want to say is 🎶hit me baby one more time🎶 to Kennedy fox and their novels. Cause damn I need them like a fix bad.

Until the next read,

-TMR

[Andi Isack · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Heart of us will literally make your heart beat like crazy, and not only that. By the end of the story iwill own it as well
This story will catch your attention (and someting more, from the very beginning.
But there's s so much more. It will blow your mind. At some point I was going crazy, because all that powerful sexual tention was screaming loud, you'll literally feel it. It goes beyond the words! It's sweet & spice, it's dangerous but irresistible. This is a nice slow burning age gap romance. The unpredictability will kill you, but you'll be so focus on them that you'll loose control and just enjoy the ride. And what a ride.
I can anticipate that you'll feel a lot for the Heroine. Her strength is impressive. Out of chats. And her beauty is like a star in the darkness. Without it the star won't shine. And who'll make it shine? Him, obviously. God, this man, I sure I'll give everything to make him real. Easton is outrageously perfect, in and outside.. Will see how he'll make her smile again, take a risk, kick her demons, own her beauty, be loved and cherish. I love all that part. And I loved that KF has focused a lot on that part.
About the hot scenes? Do you really wanna know? Well, let's say waiting is worthing. Because it's an escalation of attraction, temptation, self control challenge, hot kisses, forbidden fantasies, really sexy touches... She'll i go on????
Hmmm, now get out there and read it. I'll garatee you'll feel this story with your heart. And be #teamEastum for a long time.
*ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review *

[Wendy'sThoughts]

Expected publication: 2021


The Two of Us (Love in Isolation, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Best of Us (Love in Isolation, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The End of Us (Love in Isolation, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Heart of Us (Love in Isolation, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Star Review The Heart Of Us (Love in Isolation #4) by Kennedy Fox
AUDIO REVIEW:
I really enjoyed this story from Kennedy Fox. The narration by Andi Arndt and Tor Thom really brought this story to life for me. They were both well suited to the characters and were so easy to listen to with pleasing voices.

I’m not a huge fan of age gap romance, particularly when the woman is older (I have no idea why) but Kennedy Fox’s story is such that I quickly forgot those points as I became hooked on Tatum and Easton’s story.

Having met Easton before in The End of Us I was looking forward to his story. Tatum works for Easton and when her psychotic ex targets her, Easton will do everything in his power to protect her. Forced to hold up and hide from her ex Easton and Tatum are are thrust together.

I really admired Tatum for her strength and determination, she refused to give in when many would have given up. Easton is totally swoon worthy, he is protective, caring and all in all a good guy.

I really enjoyed the push and pull dynamic of their relationship as it developed and I was cheering these two to get the happily ever after they both deserved.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars— This book may be a slow burn, but the romance is sweet and the spice is hot! This is a reverse age gap, boss/employee, close proximity romance with a big twist! Tatum is hiding from her abusive ex-husband while working in Easton’s surf shop. Easton felt an instant attraction to Tatum and when they face a series of suspicious events, they find themselves leaning on each other. During their time together, they form a very important layer of trust that leads to a spicy conclusion! Easton is sweet and understanding and Tatum is strong. These two build a strong foundation that builds as the close proximity forces them to be together for some time. This was a great book from start to finish!

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want you to want me as much as I want you.

I loved Easton and Tatum's story. They have so much chemistry and attraction between them. And because they have been attracted to each other since the first time they met but they chose to not act on it, once they act on there's already so much build-up between them. And I loved that Piper and Oakley are their biggest supporters too. Definitely made them think of having a go at it. I loved just how sweet Easton is with Tatum. He's just what she needs after what she went through. He's just perfect! I also loved Easton's relationship with Piper and how he called her his sister, that's sweet too.

I can't wait for Oakley's story next!

[Zoey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a slow burn book but doesn’t feel like it because of how well it’s written. I felt like I had only been reading a of couple chapters and looked down to see I was already half way through the book. Amazing read!

Easton is a great guy and he really helped Tatum with her body image issues. Definitely one of my favourite book boyfriends of this year so far.

Can’t wait for the Oakley’s story next!

[Lishy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Heart of Us by Kennedy Fox is the 4th book of the "Love in isolation" series. It's a slow burn romance, totally enthralling, with suspense, unexpected twists, and with an OMG level of hotness between Tatum and Easton. This book touched on some sensitive issues but Kennedy Fox handled them delicately.Tatum is on the run from an abusive soon to be ex husband when she finds herself at Easton’s surf shop getting a job and living above the shop. I loved that Tatum was so strong and I absolutely loved how Easton loved Tatum.There is a sizzling chemistry between these two from the beginning, but Tatum hasn't pursued anything given her not yet single status and long term history of abuse to go along with it.
Easton was the perfect book boyfriend. He was kind, patient, funny, and sexy as hell. He was exactly what Tatum needed.
This was my first Kennedy Fox book, and they have been high recommended to me.
So if you like reverse age gap ✔️friends to lovers/forbidden vibes ✔️abusive husband ✔️forced proximity ✔️emotional moments any of these tropes you definitely wanna grab this book.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Heart of Us is a book I have been waiting for. This is Tatum and Easton's story, and what a story it is. It is an older woman younger man with a lot of slow burn. These two are great together. The way Easton builds up Tatum and helps with restoring her self-esteem is something else. Kennedy Fox are wonderful storytellers. I can't wait to read more from them.

[Ashley Olson- lovestoread08 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Heart of Us is book #4 and the most recent book in the Love in Isolation series by Kennedy Fox. If I could give this book over 5 stars I would! A sweet slow burn that will leave you craving for more! The chemistry between Easton and Tatum sizzles from the first interaction. This book does have sensitive topics such as abuse, and miscarriage but it doesn’t go into graphic details. It isn’t your typical age gap, employee boss story. You haven’t read anything this page worthy so make sure you grab it immediately!!!!

[Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A slow burning, heart healing romance. Give me a man like Easton, cause dayummmmmm, lick my lips, he is sweet, patient, kind, and all kinds of dirty.

This is not the typical boss/employee story, nor is it the typical meet and fall in love romance. Tatum and Easton are both in a situation of duress and it all centers around her ex-husband.  

Tatum is on the run from her abusive, soon-to-be ex-husband and staying in the apartment above the surf shop Easton owns and has employed her at as well. There is a sizzling chemistry between these two from the beginning, but Tatum hasn't pursued anything given her not yet single status and long term history of abuse to go along with it. When her crazy ex suddenly appears Tatum knows she is no longer safe, but Easton promises he will protect her, what he doesn't realize is how psycho the ex truly is until they both wake up to smoke and flames. With the shop burning down and their apartments located upstairs they barely make it out with their lives intact. 

Heading to Easton's parents beach house for security, he once again promises Tatum safety and a roof over both of their heads until her ex can be caught and their lives can be returned to normal. However, the close proximity only makes their friendship stronger, their feelings they'd tried to bury comes rushing to the surface and all that chemistry they have for one another eventually boils over. It was only a matter of time, but with their guards down will they truly be safe and what will their new normal look like when they return from the bubble they've been living in?

The Heart of Us is a slow burn romance, but Tatum has a lot of baggage to work through and Easton is a patient man while she deals with healing the wounds of her past.  As their friendship blossoms, this book feels light on angst because these two get along so well, yet, there is a lot of heartache surrounding Tatum and everything she has survived, so heed any warnings surrounding trauma or abuse in relationships. That woman is a warrior to have survived so much.  

I loved the cameos from past characters, but this book is a standalone and can be read without reading any other prior books.

[Drea · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Heart of Us is a slow burn, boss/employee, age gap romance that gave me all the feels. Easton was the perfect book boyfriend. He was kind, patient, funny, and sexy as hell. He was exactly what Tatum needed.
Tatum escapes an abusive husband and finds herself seeking refuge in Florida; getting a job at Easton's shop and renting an apartment above the shop. I loved that from the moment she arrived, she and Easton were becoming friends. They were both attracted to one another but were set on remaining professional, until a fire forces them to hide out together in Easton's family beach house.Tatum is one of my favorite Kennedy Fox heroins. She is kind, loving, and a survivor in every sense. She is strong and completely determined to build the life she wants.
Tatum has a lot of healing to do and Easton slowly and patiently loves her through it all.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved their friendship and the easy banter between them. I loved that Tatum was so strong and I absolutely loved how Easton loved Tatum. Tatum needed time to heal, and I loved that she was given that time. It wasn't glossed over; the story didn't jump right into spicy scenes as soon as they were alone. Easton was kind, patient, and let Tatum set the pace. But don't worry the spicy scenes that are in the story are perfectly spicy!
The age gap was the only part that I didn't really care for. First of all, if it's less than 10 years I personally don't really think it counts as an age gap. The 9 year age difference was brought up a lot! To the point I found myself thinking "this could be a drinking game. Take a shot every time they mention the age difference." I didn't have enough alcohol on hand, but I did consider it ;) Age gap aside, I really enjoyed Easton and Tatum's story. Despite everything Tatum went through, her story left me with a big smile on my face and a heart full of warm fuzzies.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic story from Kennedy Fox! The Heart of Us is a heartwarming, slow burn between Tatum and Easton. I loved the older woman/younger man angle. This book touched on some sensitive issues but handled them delicately. That is one of the things I love about Kennedy Fox romances, that they are willing to touch on sensitive topics and bring them to light. They als give their characters a chance to work through these issues and learn to process it in a healthy way. I think these things need to be talked about so I appreciate Kennedy Fox taking a chance like that.
I really liked Tatum's character. She was shy and reserved but still had some fire burning inside. It was heartbreaking what Tatum had to endure at the hands of someone who should care about her. There were some very raw emotions from her and they felt very real.
Easton was fantastic, everything you could ask for in a book boyfriend. He was so supportive of Tatum and I loved how he did everything he could to lift her up.
It was a slow burn so we got to know the characters better and the little bit of mystery and suspense was a nice touch. There was plenty of heat mixed in too. It was a very emotional but entertaining book that I really enjoyed. Can't forget to mention George! He was a great little character and I loved that he was included. I would definitely recommend The Heart of Us!

[•Cici• Theory of A Dreamer Book Blog♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!! 💛

Having read the three previous installments I couldn't wait for more! The moment this fourth book was announced it became an instant anticipated read of mine! I had to dive into it right away and get back into the Love In Isolation world. I loved it so much!

Tatum and Easton's journey hooked me from beginning to end! From the moment these two stay with each other, i wasn't sure what all to expect and couldn't wait to see how things would play out. From their friendship, their off the charts chemistry, to their emotions i could feel every bit of, I absolutely adored these two!

Tatum was such a strong character that i truly admired. Getting to see her tackle such real things got to me. Easton stole my heart with his sweetness and determination. These two kept me glued to my kindle!

With The Heart of Us, The Kennedy Fox duo have created such a fantastic read filled with all kinds of feels! I'm still thinking about these characters and this story! I can't wait to dive back into the Love In Isolation world with the fifth installment, The Fall of Us! 💛


*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the authors*

[Amy [Book Addict Reviews] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tatum is on the run from an abusive soon to be ex husband when she finds herself at Easton’s surf shop getting a job and living above the shop. Since Easton is also her boss and neighbor the two of them have formed a connection, but there is also a level of attraction between the two of them. When the past catches up though, will it change everything?

Tatum…she has been through so much and I feel for her, but I love that she realized she doesn’t need to stay in that situation and that she deserves better. However, all those years have had a major effect on her self esteem. Easton is protective, especially as he learns more about Tatum’s past, he is super sweet, caring and patient. I love the connection between Tatum and Easton and the slow progression they had. Easton never forced Tatum to rush into anything more.

There is a tad bit of suspense mixed in but not a major focus. I loved getting little bits and pieces of Tristan and Piper throughout this story, too. This book does deal with topics that may be difficult for some to read, so please read the warning at the beginning of the book.

If you’re looking for an age gap, workplace, forced proximity romance with a dash of suspense check this one out.

[Samantha (Millennial Life Crisis Bookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loving this twist on a typical storyline! After being left on a cliffhanger of sorts from the last book regarding this couple, I was so excited to get my hands on this book and find out what happens between them! Easton has a huge crush on Tatum, his employee who is hiding something while also years older than him and won’t give him the time of day. Tatum is crushing on her younger boss but won’t act on anything because she is running from her past. When the shop and their apartments are ruined, Easton immediately jumps into action to protect Tatum and takes him to the safe house, where he also gets the whole story behind Tatum and her past. Easton does everything he can to protect her and also gives her the motivation and strength to move forward with getting her life back while getting out from under her past. While they’re somewhat in hiding, they finally act on their feelings, and I love seeing the character growth and personality blossom from Tatum! Overall, I enjoyed this book and continue to enjoy this series and can’t wait for the next read from these authors!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another beautiful love story by Kennedy Fox! The Heart of Us was a heartfelt, slow burn to steamy, compelling story with an undertone of suspense. Easton & Tatum captured my heart from the start. Their chemistry was scorching and their banter was charming. Loved everything about this story, like Easton helping Tatum get her confidence back after being in an abusive marriage or when Tatum taught him to do yoga and he taught her to surf. I loved how their employee/boos relationship slowly turned to friendship to lovers. Easton was so sweet, flirty and protective, definitely book bf material. Tatum was very relatable character. She was strong, brave, funny, even though she was being stalked by her crazy ex husband and still dealing with PTSD from years of emotional/physical abuse. Overall, this is the story for you if you love reverse age gap, boss/employee, forced proximity, low suspense romance. Can’t wait to read Oakley’s story!

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

What happens when You're on the run from you psycho ex-husband and your sexy younger boss goes into hiding with you to keep you safe? You slowly remember what it's like to fall in love and hope he feels it too.

This is the story of Tatum and Easton. She is a woman on the run from her abusive, soon-to-be ex-husband. This has her living in an apartment above a surf shop that Easton owns. She is also working for him. From the moment these two meet there is a instant connection and chemistry. However she hasn't really pursued anything with him because she really isn't single and I know that she has heeling to do because her husband was so horrible to her. However her crazy ex isn't quiet finished being her crazy ex and she needs Easton now more than ever. He vows to protect her and has no idea what he is getting himself in to because her ex is truly psychotic. He shows just how psycho he is when both Tatum and Easton wake up to smoke and the shop is on fire. Now they need a safe place to stay and that leads them to Easton's parents beach house until the crazy man can be caught and put behind bars.
I thought this was a slow burn or a romance that really sucks you in and takes you on a ride of triumph and understanding and a woman who is very broken by the hand of a man who never should be in anyone's life ever. You guys do not want to miss this one.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book I’ve read by Kennedy Fox and they are becoming one of my new favorite authors. Their books are written so well and believable too.

Meet Tatum, on the run from her almost ex husband and lands in Florida at a surf shop looking for a job and a place to live. Just so happens the owner Easton has both. But when her ex finds out where she is, he shows up and things literally burst I to flames. Only things for Tatum and Easton to do is hide out at the family beach house. Close proximity, swearing off men, hard time trusting finds Tatum with the one guy who’s trying to protect her.

I love how their relationship evolves. The steamy scenes of course are amazing and I quickly fell in love with Tatum and Easton. From a slow burn, reverse age gap (she’s older) to spicy scenes and swoony interactions this was a true page turner. I can’t wait for the next book!!!

[Helen Chang · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easton and Tatum begin their relationship as boss and employee, but different circumstances bring them together, isolated at a cabin.

Easton is Tristan's brother, we met him in book 3 of the series. Despite being young, he faces life as a more mature person, so he seeks more meaningful relationships.
We get to know Tatum's life story of abuse by her husband. There are shocking moments as she reveals pieces of her life, her memories, her insecurities. I loved how the authors dealt with such delicate subject in a very respectful way,

This is the 4th book of the "Love in isolation" series. It's a slow burn romance, totally enthralling, with suspense, unexpected twists, and with an OMG level of hotness.

[Ashley Herndon · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED THIS!

Easton is so dreamy and exactly what Tatum needs.
He gets her, she lights him on fire and does not even know it.

Tatum has been on the run from an abusive ex and ends up in paradise in the FL keys working at a surf show with this younger man, who is smoking hot and so kind.

Easton has been infatuated his new employee for awhile, a woman who is about 7-8 years older. He has always had a thing for older women! #Swoon

If you are looking for an age gap, on the run, with an average sized woman and a hot man, look no further! The glimpses of Piper and Tristan were so awesome too! I need a Piper in my life (haha)...

Highly recommend!

[Erica Rogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

A reverse age gap romance. Tatum is on the run from an abusive ex and finds refuge with Easton. He is deeply attracted to her but as he learns more about her past he respects boundaries that might give her more comfort.

They are forced into a situation where they go into hiding together and sped their days teaching each other things they love and growing closer. It does take a while for their relationship to get steamy there’s a lot of build up to it. Once it hits, it hits! There’s also this suspense element that leaves you wondering when something is going to happen constantly.

This was my first Kennedy Fox book, and they have been high recommended to me. I think due to the situation of the couple the spice wasn’t as prominent as early as some of their others seem, but I am for sure going to give others of theirs a shot.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
I've been looking forward this one since the bomb dropped at the end of the last book. I couldn't wait to get Tristan's brother Easton's story. The wait was so worth it! Easton and Tatum had me gobbling up the pages. I felt for Tatum. Her ex is a piece of scum that's putting her in danger. Easton is everything that Tatum deserved in a man. Only he has his work cut out for him to bring down her walls. I love reverse age gap romance. That's my preferred age gap romance so this was right my alley. I loved George. It made me fall for Easton a little more. This book had the perfect combination of heat, heart, and suspenseful moments. I'm already looking forward to the next book with Tatum's sister. It already sounds like a winner even before I read it.

[Michaela Nicek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is everything I was hoping for it to be. I love age gap stories and this one was somehow really special for me. I don't want to spoil anything, but there was one specific scene with a mirror that was so well written that it made me cry like a baby. (Not only) at that moment, I related to the character on so many levels and I guess that's what felt so at home for me. Overall, this entire book is written so damn good and I think that after Travis and Viola's duet, this is my second favorite book from Kennedy Fox. Love it!

[Savannah Medina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Age gap romance dream come true! Holy smoking hot surfer boy strong woman forced proximity love story! I have been dying to read Tristan's story since we met him and it did NOT disappoint! What a beautifully well done book! I love these two so much! Tatum absolutely stole my heart broke my heart, and inspired me so hardcore! Talk about a girl crush! She's fierce and I want to be her when I grow up! So well done, and I'm DYING for Oakley and Finn's story! I neeeeeed it! See y'all on another page!

[The Romantic Rush Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

This has quickly become my favorite Kennedy Fox series, and I really enjoyed Easton and Tatum’s story. The reverse age gap is delicious, the chemistry sizzles, and there is a lot of emotional content to this one given all that Tatum has experienced. Easton is swoony support and sexy partner- even if the burn is much slower than I prefer (but makes sense given this story). Another great addition to this sexy series.

[Caitlin de Smit · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an absolute delight to read, hot and steamy romance between co-workers and a dash of comedy and action.

When I read the book there were times that I wanted to yell, wanted to cry and most of all wanted to laugh along with the story. Easton and Tatum’s story is an heartfelt one that tugs on all heartstrings since it discusses real life problems everyone know about or been trough. This book is hot, hilarious with their banter and realistic which for me is the most beautiful thing to read. A book that’s relatable and realistic yet still swoon worthy and so amazing that despite the horrible things that happen they come out stronger on the other side.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easton and Tatum story was a slow burn, but so well written and moves quickly you'll never really be bored. We get to spend time back at the beach house with this couple and I think my favorite part just might be the surf lesson! Easton helps Tatum win back her confidence from an abusive relationship while they are in living in the beach house, and slowly shows her how important she is. The age gap keeps Tatum from diving right in, but she slowly learns not every man is like her husband. This book was just like the rest of Kennedy Fox's books, You will not want to put it down!

[Swoon Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked on this book, I could not put it down! I usually find books where a couple are forced to live together for a certain amount of time boring and monotonous, but I really enjoyed this one.

Kennedy Fox have touched on some sensitive topics throughout this book which is refreshing to read - thank you for not always making the heroine 'perfect'!

This is a spicy read with some suspense and a HEA, if you are debating whether to read it or not, you won't regret it!