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The Monroes #3
Color Me Free
Ethel Monroe has dedicated her young life to helping the less fortunate by volunteering in organizations such as the Peace Corps. However, she wanted to do more, and when Casper Walgreen offered her a position in his non-profit organization, she couldn’t refuse. Casper was notorious for being the first one to bring relief to communities that suffered natural disasters. He often worked hand in hand with pharmaceutical companies to create vaccines, cures, and treatments for the illness that plagued the world.
Casper had been her idol.
That was until she met him.
In his youth, Casper thought he could change the world by getting his hands dirty. Now he’d past his fortieth birthday, he’d become a cynic after realizing politics always got in the way, and he understood that money talked more than action. Using his family's millions was the only way he’d ever achieve any of the goals he’d set for himself the day he graduated with a Ph.D. in International Disaster Psychology. Only, he thought he could have done it differently. He did the best he could with the resources that he had. He knew he that his programs did some good, but understanding how the corrupt system worked, he concentrated on making sure that every penny and every donation he made actually went to the needy and moved on to the next good cause. He couldn’t save the world, but he could make an impact.
And then in walked Ethel to his life and flipped it upside down, making him question everything. She showed him a side of the world he’d never seen and brought him back to his roots, making him want a life he hadn’t thought about in years. But was he willing to risk his heart to make the necessary changes he’d been too afraid to deal with in the past? Or would he continue to live his lif
Casper had been her idol.
That was until she met him.
In his youth, Casper thought he could change the world by getting his hands dirty. Now he’d past his fortieth birthday, he’d become a cynic after realizing politics always got in the way, and he understood that money talked more than action. Using his family's millions was the only way he’d ever achieve any of the goals he’d set for himself the day he graduated with a Ph.D. in International Disaster Psychology. Only, he thought he could have done it differently. He did the best he could with the resources that he had. He knew he that his programs did some good, but understanding how the corrupt system worked, he concentrated on making sure that every penny and every donation he made actually went to the needy and moved on to the next good cause. He couldn’t save the world, but he could make an impact.
And then in walked Ethel to his life and flipped it upside down, making him question everything. She showed him a side of the world he’d never seen and brought him back to his roots, making him want a life he hadn’t thought about in years. But was he willing to risk his heart to make the necessary changes he’d been too afraid to deal with in the past? Or would he continue to live his lif
- GenresContemporary Romance
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2020
48 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Jen Talty
229 books510 followersJen Talty is the USA Today Bestselling Author of Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense, and Paranormal Romance. In the fall of 2020, her short story was selected and featured in a 1001 Dark Nights Anthology. She is currently contracted to write in the With Me in Seattle series by Kristen Proby with Lady Boss Press, as well as Susan Stoker’s Special Forces: Operation Alpha and Elle James’s Brotherhood Protectors.
Regardless of the genre, her goal is to take you on a ride that will leave you floating under the sun with warmth in your heart. She writes stories about broken heroes and heroines who aren’t necessarily looking for romance, but in the end, they find the kind of love books are written about :).
She first started writing while carting her kids to one hockey rink after the other, averaging 170 games per year between 3 kids in 2 countries and 5 states. Her first book, IN TWO WEEKS was originally published in 2007. In 2010 she helped form a publishing company (Cool Gus Publishing) with NY Times Bestselling Author Bob Mayer where she ran the technical side of the business through 2016.
Jen is currently enjoying the next phase of her life…the empty nester! She and her husband reside in Jupiter, Florida.
Grab a glass of vino, kick back, relax, and let the romance roll in…
Regardless of the genre, her goal is to take you on a ride that will leave you floating under the sun with warmth in your heart. She writes stories about broken heroes and heroines who aren’t necessarily looking for romance, but in the end, they find the kind of love books are written about :).
She first started writing while carting her kids to one hockey rink after the other, averaging 170 games per year between 3 kids in 2 countries and 5 states. Her first book, IN TWO WEEKS was originally published in 2007. In 2010 she helped form a publishing company (Cool Gus Publishing) with NY Times Bestselling Author Bob Mayer where she ran the technical side of the business through 2016.
Jen is currently enjoying the next phase of her life…the empty nester! She and her husband reside in Jupiter, Florida.
Grab a glass of vino, kick back, relax, and let the romance roll in…
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 25, 2020
This book opens with Ethel meeting Casper Walgreen for the first time. She's a high school senior at the time and definitely has a crush on him. Her interest is far deeper than that though. She aspires to work for his foundation and possibly get an internship there during college.
Casper was gracious and flattered by Ethel and she reminds him of himself at that age. Full of hope and determined to make a difference in the world.
Now Ethel is interviewing with Casper. However the job isn't what she believed it to be. Almost disheartened she continues to listen to him describe what he was looking for. More than an assistant but more of a second in command.
Now Casper has a bit of a problem, he sees Ethel as more than just an assistant, he intends for her to take over the foundation. He feels burned out and his heart just isn't in it the way it once was. It's not just the work it's the loss of someone he loved very much, he hasn't recovered from that. There's also the attraction he feels toward Ethel, something he's not sure he knows how to deal with.
Ethel senses something is up with Casper, she can't pinpoint it but it's there. She's figured out the crush she once had hasn't gone away instead it has intensified.
I love the way this story unfolds, with secrets revealed and friendships rekindled. All while the attraction between them goes from simmer to full on flame.
I confess I haven't read the other books in this series, but they are now on my TBR pile.
Casper was gracious and flattered by Ethel and she reminds him of himself at that age. Full of hope and determined to make a difference in the world.
Now Ethel is interviewing with Casper. However the job isn't what she believed it to be. Almost disheartened she continues to listen to him describe what he was looking for. More than an assistant but more of a second in command.
Now Casper has a bit of a problem, he sees Ethel as more than just an assistant, he intends for her to take over the foundation. He feels burned out and his heart just isn't in it the way it once was. It's not just the work it's the loss of someone he loved very much, he hasn't recovered from that. There's also the attraction he feels toward Ethel, something he's not sure he knows how to deal with.
Ethel senses something is up with Casper, she can't pinpoint it but it's there. She's figured out the crush she once had hasn't gone away instead it has intensified.
I love the way this story unfolds, with secrets revealed and friendships rekindled. All while the attraction between them goes from simmer to full on flame.
I confess I haven't read the other books in this series, but they are now on my TBR pile.
August 25, 2020
Jen always writes books that are on the moment and what is more on the moment than an epidemic Don't know if this is just great timing or well planned but it is perfectly timed. As always this is a book that flows well has characters that engage you and a story line that has you turning pages as fast as you can
Ethel Monroe has been working with the peace corp but now she has a chance to work with her hero eight years earlier her path of giving was started after she attended a lecture by Casper Walgreen he is a man who has tried to help those that needed aid and his charity Help, Hope and Relief Foundation has a reputation for been one of the first on scene in any disaster she has also had a major crush on him ever since. What she doesn't know is that Casper has become disillusioned he knows that politics is the thing that decides who gets what and though he tries to make sure his aid gets through without loss he knows it doesn't always happen Can she help him to see good in the world again and in doing so bring joy back to his life and can they develop feelings for one another that will last You will have to read to see
Ethel Monroe has been working with the peace corp but now she has a chance to work with her hero eight years earlier her path of giving was started after she attended a lecture by Casper Walgreen he is a man who has tried to help those that needed aid and his charity Help, Hope and Relief Foundation has a reputation for been one of the first on scene in any disaster she has also had a major crush on him ever since. What she doesn't know is that Casper has become disillusioned he knows that politics is the thing that decides who gets what and though he tries to make sure his aid gets through without loss he knows it doesn't always happen Can she help him to see good in the world again and in doing so bring joy back to his life and can they develop feelings for one another that will last You will have to read to see
August 24, 2020
This story was a sweet and angsty age-gap romance set against the backdrop of an epidemic. (A little tongue-in-cheek, but I thought that it was very appropriate for the moment.) I love that we get to come back and learn about one more of the Monroe siblings. This time our focus is on charitable crusader Ethel. She fell in love with Casper nearly a decade ago when he came to speak at her school, and she’s been downplaying the crush ever since. Casper is a haunted man. He has ghosts and secrets that are keeping him from living a full life. Will their fledgling relationship survive Ethel learning his secrets? Will Casper allow himself to truly live again? I really enjoyed watching these characters navigate their differences. And I liked seeing that while their age difference isn’t made into a big deal, it isn’t downplayed as being completely nothing either. Now I’m desperate to find out more about what may develop between the pilot and the romance author.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.
September 4, 2020
Ethel was 17 when she met her idol and high school crush when he came to speak at her school. Casper served in the Peace Corps and upon his return he opened a foundation to continue to help people around the world with both natural disasters as well as health crises - especially in underdeveloped countries. Fast forward several years, Ethel has completed collage and also served in the Peace Corps and is currently working in a job that while serving an important need, doesn’t fulfill her. When she sees a job opening at the foundation that she has admired and would kill to work with Casper, she is excited. Casper has always remembered Ethel because of her passion to help, but he has a painful secret and is feeling burned out, and unbeknownst to Ethel, he is hoping to train Ethel to take over the running of the foundation. Ethel works her way into his heart, even though he fights it. Loved how two people who are both so passionate about helping people end up falling in love. Loved this installment of the various Monroe siblings.
August 24, 2020
The opening chapter in the book is a bit startling because it really emphasizes the age gap between Ethel and Casper, and it threw me off a bit. However – and this is important – that initial interaction is forgotten when you get into the story itself. Casper initially intends to use Ethel’s enthusiasm to withdraw from his organization, but the line between employer/employee is blurred and he may see a future. He is, however, dealing with past grief, and they are headed right back to its source. I loved the way Casper is offered absolution for the guilt he erroneously feels, and the support he is offered, not only by Ethel but by his friends, however estranged. It’s a fairly slow read, it is just right for this time in history, and it is recommended.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
August 25, 2020
I received this ARC for an honest review.
After meeting Casper when he cam to do a talk at her school
Ethel has returned from a stint in the peace core. But is inforfilled but her job role when a job comes up within Casper's company. A job she really could sink her teeth into.
Casper noticed Ethel years back. But she was seventeen and he was in his early thirties. Still stunning but also funny driven and compassionate. He offers her a job as his right hand woman.
Casper has lost the passion for his charitable work. And hopes to step down.
But working next to Ethel is something he never thought would be as good as it was. When they cross the line its with the understanding its a short lived affair. When Casper is forced to face his past, a past he cannot outrun he must face Ethel or rusk losing her. Thing this is my favourite one of the series.
After meeting Casper when he cam to do a talk at her school
Ethel has returned from a stint in the peace core. But is inforfilled but her job role when a job comes up within Casper's company. A job she really could sink her teeth into.
Casper noticed Ethel years back. But she was seventeen and he was in his early thirties. Still stunning but also funny driven and compassionate. He offers her a job as his right hand woman.
Casper has lost the passion for his charitable work. And hopes to step down.
But working next to Ethel is something he never thought would be as good as it was. When they cross the line its with the understanding its a short lived affair. When Casper is forced to face his past, a past he cannot outrun he must face Ethel or rusk losing her. Thing this is my favourite one of the series.
August 16, 2020
Age gap but it worked...
Ethel met Casper when she was a senior in high school and he was starting up his foundation. She knew she wanted to work for his foundation someday, and it didn't hurt he was easy to look at. After high school she joined the Peace Corps, then worked for the Public Health Dept. Now she has her dream position, working along side Casper at his foundation.
As they start to work together, one night things get heated and they cross the line.. She never could have imaging being with Casper and now that she has she can't let him go. But go is his end game, he's been through so much he needs a break.. His plan all along was to walk away, but once Ethel finds out the whole truth will she let him?
Ethel met Casper when she was a senior in high school and he was starting up his foundation. She knew she wanted to work for his foundation someday, and it didn't hurt he was easy to look at. After high school she joined the Peace Corps, then worked for the Public Health Dept. Now she has her dream position, working along side Casper at his foundation.
As they start to work together, one night things get heated and they cross the line.. She never could have imaging being with Casper and now that she has she can't let him go. But go is his end game, he's been through so much he needs a break.. His plan all along was to walk away, but once Ethel finds out the whole truth will she let him?
September 7, 2020
Ethel Monroe has always had a crush on Casper Walgreen. Ethel has always wanted to do anything she could to improve the world and saw that Casper Walgreenhad the same idealism. Eventually, Ethel gets her dream job of working for Casper, however, Casper has different plans for Ethel and is misleading her in this job.
Ethel and Casper must deal with some issues that have haunted Casper for years. If Casper doesn't address these issues , not only will he lose Ethel as an employee, but most importantly he will lose her love. This story is about love growing from admiration in how they both want go help others, to the love and peace they find in each other. It was a wonderful story. I received this book for a honest review.
Ethel and Casper must deal with some issues that have haunted Casper for years. If Casper doesn't address these issues , not only will he lose Ethel as an employee, but most importantly he will lose her love. This story is about love growing from admiration in how they both want go help others, to the love and peace they find in each other. It was a wonderful story. I received this book for a honest review.
June 16, 2021
I didn't finish this book, but based on the reviews and the first two books, I'm giving it the benefit of the doubt with 3 stars.
I do not like age gap stories, sometimes they work but as a general rule I'm not a big fan, especially when the gap is basically 20 years and one party is barely halfway through their 20s. It just feels icky to me, no matter the chemistry and I'm honestly pretty irritated that the book's blurb doesn't mention an age gap at all, let alone such a substantial one.
I'm sure this book would be fantastic for someone who doesn't have that hang up, but unfortunately I do.
I do not like age gap stories, sometimes they work but as a general rule I'm not a big fan, especially when the gap is basically 20 years and one party is barely halfway through their 20s. It just feels icky to me, no matter the chemistry and I'm honestly pretty irritated that the book's blurb doesn't mention an age gap at all, let alone such a substantial one.
I'm sure this book would be fantastic for someone who doesn't have that hang up, but unfortunately I do.
August 24, 2020
Casper firsts meets Ethel when she's in high school. She wants to work for him some day. After high school she joins the Peace Crops then she gets the job interview she's always wanted. Working for him was not what she thought it would be. But he's plan has always been to walk away. He knew he did some good but, he knew he couldn't save the world. Can Ethel show him how to go on and do the work he's meant to do? and to forgive himself his past. The one thing i had a hard time wrapping my head around was the age difference.
September 8, 2020
Ethel Monroe and Casper Walgreen met when Ethel was a senior in high school. Years later she interviews for a job at his Foundation. She’s had a crush on him since that first meeting and he’s seeing her differently when they meet again. This story is an amazing story of one who is young and still full of hope and belief and one who has lost his hope and belief through the hardships of life. Both have a true desire to make a change in the world and help others. But can Ethel lead him back to a world full of hope? You won’t be disappointed in this one!
August 27, 2020
A well-written story of an older man and younger women. Casper Walgreen first met Ethel Monroe when she was a senior in high school. He saw a little of himself in her eagerness to serve and help where needed. Years later, he interviews her and decides to groom her to take his place in his foundation. They recognize and act on their physical attraction. The characters' development brings them to life. I love how the author uses love to heal his bitter soul. I recommend this book.
August 29, 2020
Ethel has had a crush on Casper since she was in high school even tho he as quite a bit older. She always dreamed of going to work for him after she graduated and she did the peace corps. Things didn't turn out like she had planned. Then 9 yrs later she interviewed with him. Is this job all that she ever dreamed of?
Held my interest from the start.
I was given an advanced reader copy and I voluntarily leave this review.
Held my interest from the start.
I was given an advanced reader copy and I voluntarily leave this review.
August 24, 2020
This book goes to show that when you find your soul mate, no matter the age, it will mend a broken heart for sure! Casper and Ethel were meant to be together no matter the age gap. Even though Casper is hiding behind a facade and nursing his broken heart, he finally realizes he was not truly living until Ethel!
August 26, 2020
Color Me Free
Jen Talty
A fast paced second chance story of Casper and Ethel. It makes for a miserable life when you blame yourself for something you didn’t have control over. Casper learns with Ethel’s help about forgiveness.
A sweet story with great characters who you want to see have a happy ever after.
Looking forward to reading more of this series in the future.
Jen Talty
A fast paced second chance story of Casper and Ethel. It makes for a miserable life when you blame yourself for something you didn’t have control over. Casper learns with Ethel’s help about forgiveness.
A sweet story with great characters who you want to see have a happy ever after.
Looking forward to reading more of this series in the future.
September 7, 2020
Ethel has always had a crush on Casper. She wants to intern for him but it didn't happen.
Casper is very impressed with all the work Ethel has accomplished. He wants her to work with him.
Ethel is so excited to be working with Casper. Her crush has increased. Casper lost his wife and child but has been scared to move on. Will his own mind lose the best thing that has happened in a long time?
Casper is very impressed with all the work Ethel has accomplished. He wants her to work with him.
Ethel is so excited to be working with Casper. Her crush has increased. Casper lost his wife and child but has been scared to move on. Will his own mind lose the best thing that has happened in a long time?
August 22, 2020
Older man, much younger woman. He's working on a foundation for the needy and she wants the peace corps. Working for him was not what she expected. This book was a slow read for me. I more the suspense and action girl. HEA
September 28, 2020
A broken heart and soul healed with love
The lead characters have pretty unforgettable names, Casper and Ethyl. This is a moving story about romance found in the world of philanthropy. Highly enjoyable, and easy to read.
The lead characters have pretty unforgettable names, Casper and Ethyl. This is a moving story about romance found in the world of philanthropy. Highly enjoyable, and easy to read.
August 26, 2020
Trust
Color Me Free is beautifully written story. Jen Talty has captivated me and kept me hooked from the start of this book all the way to the end. I love it.
Color Me Free is beautifully written story. Jen Talty has captivated me and kept me hooked from the start of this book all the way to the end. I love it.
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September 8, 2020
I received this book as part of an ARC review. Ethel always wanted to help others and even joined the Peace Corps. She had a huge crush on Casper Walgreen who ran a non-profit organization. She meets him when she's 17 and makes an impression. Years later, he offers her the job of his right hand woman. Unfortunately Casper has lost his will to help and believes he is burnt out. when Ethel goes to work for him she begins to draw him out. When they go to Vietnam ahead of the team, she finds out about his past. With the help of Hein and Navy, Casper realizes what he is throwing away and quickly returns to Ethel to tell her he loves her which she returns. I like how the love of a good woman rejuvenates Casper so they both have the love they deserve and continue to help others as both want to.
October 15, 2020
Casper is Ethel's biggest challenge...
Or is Ethel Casper's biggest challenge?
Casper is living in the past, torturing himself, punishing himself, his soul dying more each day, he needs Ethel to take over and continue his dream and his good work. But fate may have sent Ethel for more than that!
Is Ethel strong enough to not only haul Casper into the present, but show him how to forgive himself, stop fighting his demons and embrace the future?
The Monroe's never take the easy path and Ethel is no different but she is determined to succeed. Another hit for the Monroe series and another treat for Kindle Unlimited readers
Or is Ethel Casper's biggest challenge?
Casper is living in the past, torturing himself, punishing himself, his soul dying more each day, he needs Ethel to take over and continue his dream and his good work. But fate may have sent Ethel for more than that!
Is Ethel strong enough to not only haul Casper into the present, but show him how to forgive himself, stop fighting his demons and embrace the future?
The Monroe's never take the easy path and Ethel is no different but she is determined to succeed. Another hit for the Monroe series and another treat for Kindle Unlimited readers
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews