Rory

Hope City #7

by Maryann Jordan

Rory McBride was a protector, but went his own way...
his brothers were detectives but he found his calling as a paramedic.
Saving lives was second nature to him...
Now if he could only save the one woman who held his interest.

Sandy Carmichael hid her secrets behind a brilliant smile and flirting...
But never let anyone close. Especially not the handsome rescuer who filled her dreams.

When secrets are exposed and danger lurks... sparks fly.

One city... Countless stories.
Scenes and Language are similar to what you would find in an R-rated movie. 18+ readers.

Genres: Romance, Suspense

314 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 23, 2021

About the author

As an Award Winning and International Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo Best Selling Author, I have always been an avid reader. I joke that I "cut my romance teeth" on the old historical romance books. I’ve written as a hobby for over 30 years. In 2014, I finally gave in to the characters in my head pleading for their story to be told. Thus, Emma's Home was created.

My first novel, Emma's Home became an Amazon Best Seller in 3 categories within the first month of publishing. Its success was followed by the rest of the Fairfield Series and then led into the Love's Series. From there I have continued with the romantic suspense Alvarez Security Series and now the Saints Protection & Investigation Series.

My books are filled with sweet romance and hot sex; mystery, suspense, real life characters and situations. My heroes are alphas, take charge men who love the strong, independent women they fall in love with.
I worked as a counselor in a high school and have been involved in education for the past 30 years. I recently retired and now can spend more time devoted to my writing.

I have been married to a wonderfully patient man for 35 years and have 2 adult, very supportive daughters.
When writing, my dog or one of my cats will usually be found in my lap!

I love to hear from readers, so please email me!
authormaryannjordan@gmail.com
http://www.facebook.com/authormaryann...
www.maryannjordanauthor.com

Reviews

[Diane (Books and Tequila Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory McBride is a paramedic recently returned from the military and still trying to get settled back home in Hope City. He is immediately attracted to Sandy Carmichael when he meets her but allows what others say to influence him against his better judgement and boy does he regret that. When his eyes are opened to the true situation and he realizes what a complete jerk he has been all he can do is grovel.

“Snorting, she shook her head. “If women never forgave men for being stupid, there’d be no marriages and certainly no sex!”

I really love visiting Hope City. The books are written by two authors with different styles but the stories blend into one harmonious series. They include a great combination of romance, suspense and wonderful family dynamics.
-5 Stars!-

[H · Rating 3 out of 5]

I must admit I have mixed feelings about this book. There were parts I really liked and parts I just didn't. I have read every book in Maryann Jordan's Saints, Baytown, Fairfield, and Love series - each one multiple times and am a HUGE fan. And while it may not be necessarily fair to compare against these, Rory just lacked the drama and pace of any book in these series. That being said I did really like how in Rory you get to feel and experience what it is to fight a fire or work as an EMT as the hero Rory experience these events. As to characters I really liked Sandy. She had a lot of spunk and I really liked how she was growing her business on her terms and stuck to her principals. Rory on the other hand was a bit of a let down. He spends the majority of the book holding a poor opinion of Sandy purely based on what someone else said even after he repeatedly can see she is not like that. Again while reading her other books, Maryann Jordan has written her heros to be flawed but very strong protective loyal alphas as the lead, Rory was just not for me. If like me you love to read fast paced romantic suspense with a strong alpha then you may end up with similar mixed feelings here. However if you are into more traditional romance stories then this will definitely fit the bill. Overall I will say that I love Maryann Jordan and highly recommend everyone read her books.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book seven in The Hope City series and it is Rory and Sandy's story and wow what a story it is. Rory is a volunteer fire fighter with the Hope City Fire Department after being in the army as a combat medic and he is also waiting for him EMT certificate to be approved even though he knows that it will be a lot of work and exams he is prepared to do it as Rory is a protector and all for saving lives but what he didn't expect was to meet Sandy a woman that was beautiful and intriguing and his reaction to her and even though he wanted to get to know her things didn't go as planned. Sandy is an interior designer and runs her own company but when she meets Rory at the pub she feels an instant attraction to him which is very unusual for her as she normally keeps men at arms length due to her past but things don't always go as planned. There are many twists and turns along with danger, regrets, forgiveness, hope, love but most of all family means everything and thermometer each other regardless. Sandy's father might be wealthy but she has made her own way in her business and she is proud of what she has achieved and she also knows what people say about her but when Rory pulls back from her she is upset but as they say "Never Judge a Book By It's Cover" and Rory will definitely regret that. There chemistry and connection between them was so strong and not that you could feel it sizzling of the pages of the book and I couldn't put it down as I had to see what would happen next. This story takes you in right from the first page and it keeps you on your toes right to the last page and it was so addictive. Maryann Jordan is an amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention through out the whole book and I definitely recommend you read this book, series and other books by her and you will definitely not be disappointed.
I Voluntarily Reviewed an Arc Copy of this Amazing Book.

[Lisa Broadman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just LOVE Hope City and Rory is another great addition! I’ve been looking forward to Rory’s story for a bit just because he chose a different path than the others.

Rory is the youngest McBride boy and a twin. He is recently released from the Army where he was a medic and now that he’s home he studies to become a paramedic and volunteers as a firefighter too. Sandy (who we met in Sean’s story) is an interior designer with her own firm. They meet at the Celtic Cock and they hit it off right away. Then Rory listens to some negative gossip about Sandy and cuts things off with her, and is a bit rude about it. (Honestly I was about ready to write him off the longer this lasted, but he redeemed himself.) They find their way back to each other and move forward strong. The chemistry between these two is really something! Their sexy times are hawt! 🔥🔥

Sandy is a total sweetheart with a devastating back story from a traumatic incident post college and a tough childhood upbringing. She has fought hard to be independent from her family’s money and to be strong after her trauma. She is smart, talented and has a very strong backbone and everyone loves her.

When Rory finally gets his head on straight and makes up his own mind about Sandy rather than listening to the opinions of others, he is a great guy! He is a solid firefighter and paramedic, a great friend and brother, especially to his twin and a good boyfriend who manages to charm and impress
Sandy’s parents at a family dinner.

It is great to see other McBride siblings, family and of course the McBride parents. The family dynamics are always so easy and fun. Kinda makes you wish that you could be there with them. Maryann does a great job of laying the foundation for a future couple and I am excited to read their story! Congratulations on another great Hope City addition!

[BP34 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the seventh book in the Hope City Series and is proof that this series just gets better. This is Rory and Sandy's story and what a roller coaster it is. The attraction was there the first time they met but he allowed local gossip to cloud his judgement. IMO, he came off as rude and a little bit of a jerk at times. He was former military and sometimes they're direct. She was an interior designer from a wealthy family who was determined to make it on her own. He was working as an EMT. This book can be read as a standalone but you'll get a lot more enjoyment if you have read some of the other books. If you have you'll recognize some of the secondary characters. She was gracious when he brushed her off but fate brought them back together and sparks started flying. This was a great book that was a fun read. I read an arc via the author and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Karen Ashburner · Rating 5 out of 5]

After leaving the military, Rory McBride was volunteering for the Hope City Fire Department, concentrating on getting his EMT certification. He was intrigued when he first met Sandy Carmichael, she was beautiful, witty and fun to be around. Mistake number one was listening to gossip, deciding Sandy was a high maintenance rich girl. Mistake number two was listening to bad advice, deciding that he had no time for a relationship. Mistake number three was insulting Sandy numerous times and then ignoring her.

Months later he kept running into Sandy and found out exactly how wrong he was. Instead of the spoiled rich girl living the high life on her daddy’s money and pretending to be an interior designer, Sandy lived in a modest house, volunteered at an inner city animal shelter and ran a successful business. Although I didn’t think he groveled enough, Sandy found it in her heart to forgive him. Then workplace intrigue almost cost Sandy her life and it was up to Rory to save her.

Happy ending? Read it to find out! Loved Ocee!

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is through Kris Michaels that I was introduced to Maryann Jordan as a writer. They have teamed up to write the Hop City series and together they write some tense, suspenseful and wonderful stories. I love some seriously alpha men and the women that tame them.

Love these books and the spin off series. They keep on getting better and better.

You don't know what you are missing if you don't read these authors work.

[TeeAnn Kemmitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory and Sandy

This is the seventh back in the Hope City series by Maryann Jordan and Kris Michaels and, just like all the books before it, “Rory” did not disappoint! Rory and Sandy are now two of my favorite characters! Highly recommend!

[Island Girl Romance Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Love Rory and Sandy’s story. This series is one of my favorites. Amazing job by two awesome authors.
Can’t wait for Torin’s book.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is through Kris Michaels that I was introduced to Maryann Jordan as a writer. They have teamed up to write the Hop City series and together they write some tense, suspenseful and wonderful stories. I love some seriously alpha men and the women that tame them.

Love these books and the spin off series. They keep on getting better and better.

You don't know what you are missing if you don't read these authors work.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to tell you that I just love each and every one in the Hope City series. Rory (Hope City, book 7) is the story of Rory and Sandy. Rory McBride is the youngest of the McBride men, and the twin to Erin. Rory was a medic in the Army and just returned home from being discharged. He does not want to follow in his dad’s or brothers footsteps by going into law enforcement, but he does have a calling to help others, and he would like to be a paramedic. He is living at home with his parents, saving money to get his own place, and volunteering as a fireman with the Hope City Fire Department. He is finishing getting his certificate to become an EMT and is hoping to stay in Hope City. His Captain in the Fire Department knows his goals and likes what he sees in Rory and the work he does as a Fireman, so he offers him a temporary job (filling in for another employee who is out) as a paramedic when he completes his certification, and a permanent job waiting after that at a different station, but still in Hope City. Sandy Carmichael is a beautiful, independent interior designer. She owns her own company, Carmichael Designs. Her father is very rich, but since remarrying after Sandy’s mother left them both when she was little, he works less and is trying to repair his relationship with Sandy. Sandy’s grandmother helped raise Sandy and drilled all her “how to act like a lady” knowledge into Sandy. You get introduced to Sandy in Hope City, book 2, which is Sean and Harper’s story. Sandy is friends with Rory’s sisters and the King family girls. Sandy is at the Celtic Cock (a pub in town where all the law enforcement and fire department hang out) with the girls. Rory is also there and sees Sandy and they hit it off. These two have quite the chemistry, and instantly fall for each other. There is a story to Sandy that no one besides her friend Harper knows. She is friendly and smiles like a lady should, yet goes no further than that with men who approach her. Some of the first responder friends of Rory’s start telling him how she is cold, high maintenance, a tease, and requires a man with a lot of money. Rory is concerned about starting something when he is so close to becoming an EMT, so he foolishly listens to these guys and forms an opinion about Sandy. He is very rude and cold to Sandy and makes it quite clear he is not interested, which leaves Sandy hurt and confused. Okay, that is all I am saying because I do not want to spoil it for anyone. The character development was absolutely perfect. This book has all the characters from the previous Hope City book series in here. You know exactly who the characters are by the end of chapter one, which I love that about Maryann Jordan because then you can get lost in the story without wondering where this person came from and who they are. Rory’s story really grabbed hold of me from page one. There are two mysteries going on in this story, and there is also the mystery of Sandy’s story. This book has it all! The suspense, the action, the chemistry, and let’s not forget the groveling…lots of groveling. I loved Rory’s story. I am such a fan of Maryann Jordan. If you have not read any of her books, you are really missing out. Although each book in the series are standalones, I would recommend starting with Brock, Hope City, book 1 because you really need to know the characters and if you read them in order, you will have no problem following the characters as they appear in each book. Really you cannot go wrong by starting with book one. Trust me, you will love them all! Thank you, Maryann Jordan, for another amazing addition to the Hope City series. I cannot wait to see what is in story for us next. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an ARC copy of this book.

[A Chick and Her Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory McBride's story is the 7th book in the Hope City Series. Rory starts out as a volunteer firefighter recently separated from the army. His goal is to become a paramedic, and he's trying to figure out his life when he meets Sandy, an interior designer, during an evening at The Celtic Cock. They have immediate chemistry, and it seems like their romance is a sure thing until Rory lets some negative rumors about her scare him off. Not only does he end things, but he's an a$$ about it and very rude to her. I wasn't too thrilled with him, but I could tell he still had feelings for her even if he tried to convince himself he didn't. I'm not trying to make excuses for him, but honestly, I think he was trying to figure out his life and his feelings for her scared him, so he grabbed ahold of something he thought wasn't good and ran with it. I have to give it to Sandy. She was awesome. She was hurt, but she didn't let it keep her down. Sandy is an interior designer from an affluent family yet she doesn't depend on them to make her design firm a success. If anything, she goes out of her way not to let her family influence any part of her business.

You might think, ok, where is this going? How is this couple going to get together? Is Rory going to come to his senses, and if so, is Sandy going to forgive him? Also, will Sandy come through the issues she's facing unscathed? Will Rory be able to protect her? I don't want to tell any more of the story, but I promise you won't be disappointed.

I adore the Hope City series. I love each family's dynamic, the camaraderie between the two families, and the working relationships between the characters. Maryann Jordan has a superpower where she writes characters you feel like you know. They're complex and not just flat impressions on the page. In addition, the storyline is fresh, and the suspense factor keeps you on your toes. Oh, and the chemistry is wow!

Do you want to read it yet? Get to one-clicking. This is such a great story and perfect addition to the Hope City series. I've liked every couple so far, but Rory and Sandy are at the top of my list. 5+ stars for Rory! Congratulations to the author on a fantastic book!

[Sandy Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 7 in the Hope City series and while it could be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the previous books just because these characters are introduced in those books. In this one we get Rory and Sandy's story. Rory just got out of the military and has taken his own path towards being a paramedic. It's different than most of his family of law enforcement but it fulfills him in the same way. There is one woman who has called to him from the time he got back, but he lets gossip into his head and hurts her. Sandy is an interior designer who has her own business and just picked up a big contract that could make it bigger. She thought that maybe there was something there when she met Rory, but when he pushes her away the way he does, she knows that she should have stuck to her rules. Never let anyone too close. But when danger comes calling, she may have to rely on the one man that she didn't think she could trust.

Let me start off by saying that I was really excited for Rory's book just because he is so different from his brother's. And while I loved most of this story, I hated how he treated Sandy in the beginning. He was meaner than was necessary and he just came across as a giant jerk. Even months later, he was still just mean. Until he gets put in his place and actually has to face his actions. And that right there made the book for me. He had to realize that HE was the villain, that his actions hurt someone who didn't deserve it and didn't do a thing wrong. And that is what made the book for me. He had to face what his own actions wrought and understand what he did. And actually make amends. Sandy is this sweet, strong woman who may have grown up with money but she has never let it define her life. Nor has she let it become how she works as an adult. I loved her! She will do anything and everything for the people she loves, whether they are family or people she considers family. Definitely another great read in this world and I can't wait for the next in the series!!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory McBride never wanted to “follow in his family’s footsteps”. Rory enlisted and served as a medic in the Army. Upon discharge, Rory focused on becoming an EMT in Hope City. But his mind frequently wandered to Sandy, the petite redhead in the bar. He’s intrigued and even leads her on, only to abruptly rebuke her flirting.

Sandy comes from money. As the only child to a wealthy family, her dad assumes and pushes Sandy to work for him. But Sandy wants to make it on her own. She has her own design business with two employees. Sandy “appears” to be high maintenance, but looks are deceiving. One night, while having a drink at the bar with Harper, Sandy finds herself flirting with the “new guy”—Rory. They flirt, have a great conversation with the promise of more. Then Rory rudely dismisses Sandy the next time she sees him out with his friends. Frustrated and hurt, Sandy decides to focus on the new job she was awarded. It could generate a lot more business to her growing company.

Months later, Rory and Sandy are thrown together when trouble comes knocking on Sandy’s door. Rory comes to realize how wrong he was about Sandy and is disgusted with himself at how he let other people’s opinions of Sandy cloud his judgement. Now he has to make things right in hopes to have a future with Sandy.

I truly enjoyed Rory and Sandy’s story! The twist at the end caught me by surprise, but I liked it! Cute couple. I can’t wait to read the next story. I read a gifted copy and all opinions stated are my own.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is part of a series that takes place in Hope City. If like me you have only read a couple of the stories, rest assure that it’s definitely a stand alone.
Rory McBride, one of the six McBride siblings, has recently returned home after his years in the Army as a medic. Contrary to his brothers and father that went into law enforcement, he becomes a volunteer firefighter with the local department. His goal was to become a paramedic and be part of the EMT group.
Sandy Carmichael is an interior designer, who owns her own business and has recently become the lead designer in a new construction in town.
Sandy has been an enigma to Rory from the moment he saw her at the pub frequented by Hope City’s law enforcement and firefighters. But gossip from the crowd and his lack of time to be in a relationship keeps him from pursuing Sandy. Not only hurting Sandy, but also leaving him feeling as if he had not been fair to her.
Thankfully, life brings them together and as a relationship develops, each opens their hearts to the other. But not all is smooth sailing when Sandy suspects the electrical company working the building is not up to standard.
All throughout the story the plot was engaging, with interesting characters that kept the reader entertained from the beginning to the end.
Though Kyle’s story - book 4 - continues to be my favorite of the ones I have read, this one was still very good.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[CarolKat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Discharged from the Army, Rory was easily able to get his EMT license, now he's studying for the Paramedic exam while working as an EMT/Firefighter. The favorite hangout for police and firefighters is The Celtic Cock Pub it's here that Rory meets someone who manages to captivate him.

Sandy is Harper's best friend, she's soft-spoken but not shy in flirting with Rory. She's a bit intrigued by him and surprised by her reactions.

While they definitely have attraction, Rory has commitments and doesn't hang around long. He does however look forward to seeing Sandy again.

The second time they meet is so much fun, trading crazy pick-up lines and getting to know each other. This night ends with a steamy kiss in the parking lot that doesn't go unobserved. That's when Rory makes a really big mistake, believing what others say, instead of listening to his inner conscience.

Sandy owns a somewhat successful interior decorating business. Working with corporate accounts she designs custom offices along with her team. The account they are working on could be the one to have her business soaring to new heights. However something is off and what she discovers could ruin everything.

I love meeting up with all the McBride and King family members and it was fun meeting Shania, Rory's partner as well.

A fast-paced fun, flirty, suspenseful and scary tale with romance and eventually heat.

[Lisa Gibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Rory and Sandy's story. It is a bit different in that Rory did not follow in the footsteps of his father and brothers and go into law enforcement, he became a paramedic. He meets Sandy and well they did hit it off he decides to listen to gossip about her and really with studying to become a paramedic he decides he is better off without the entanglement. Oh Rory, what a mistake!

Sandy handles his rejection with grace and dignity, the way her grandmother raised her. Sandy often hears her grandmother's teachings in her head. She is a strong character and calls him on his bad behavior. She stands up for herself all the while remaining calm. I found myself admiring her for the way she handled different situations and it was mostly if not all in part due to the lessons taught to her by her strict grandmother. Honestly, I could picture her grandmother running a charm school in the south.

This was a good story and I didn't realize that paramedics do many different things in their line of work. I liked the way Rory struck out on his own and wasn't compelled to follow his dad and brothers into law enforcement. He has that in common with Sandy because she didn't follow in her father's footsteps either. Rory took a while to come around but he more than made up for his mistakes. We also get a glimpse into what may be in store for Rory's twin, Erin.

[Brenda Malmberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maryann has done it again. Another great book using Hope City and the McBride and King families

Rory McBride returns home from the service
Using the training he received in the army he focuses on becoming an EMT with the Hope City FD. He meets Sandy, a friend of the female McBrides and Kings and is smitten. However he is swayed from his nitial attraction and pursuit by gossip from others. Don't worry he come to his senses later in the book.

Sandy, an interior designer is hired by a large company to design the interior of a large commercial building. She discovers some unquestionable building violations and that is the crux of her getting into circumstances where she needs Rory's help. We know the general path this book is taking but it's fun seeing what twists the author takes to get there.

I love how Maryann keeps all the Hope City books in the same time. We see the culmination of previous stories brought into this book. Plus there is the tease of future matches revealed.

As usual. The sex scenes are graphic enough without crossing the line into smut. If you are at all prudish, this will be a problem for you. But for Maryann's fans, it's her usual great descriptions.

It was a fun read. I received an ARC for review.

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great edition in this series and Rory, the playboy, finds his one. He met Sandy many months ago and after listening to rumours about her, decides she isn’t worth the effort. Sandy is hurt and embarrassed that she thought Rory was different, only to find out he wasn’t. After many awkward encounters and an incident that has Rory thinking he made a mistake, he wants another chance with the beautiful Sandy...will she give it to him.
A great read with steam a bit of suspense with great characters that flowed beautifully. I LOVE LOVE the little to no drama but was hoping for a bit more pushback from Sandy when Rory comes back to her.....considering his reputation. I love and appreciate the no other women drama (LOVED that) and loved the fact that there was no over the top drama and after everything how easily they fit. With amazing characters all around, his family, her family and the ending....loved it...4.5 stars
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory has recently left the army as a medic. As he’s waiting for his EMT and paramedic certifications, he’s volunteering with the fire department. He leaves his shift and heads to the Celtic Cock where he meets Sandy. The two hit it off, but Sandy is cautious. At the next meeting, the two hit it off and sparks fly and both want to see each other. However, Rory listens to people and his own insecurities causes him to back off. Over the next few months, the two see each other but Rory continues to back off and Sandy begins to see him as rude. Eventually, Rory meets his goals and an incident at the bar causes him to rethink everything he was told about Sandy. Eventually, Rory and Sandy work things out. However, things with her job put her in danger and Rory must fight to save the woman he loves. This was another wonderful addition to the Hope Series and I can’t wait for Torrin and Erin’s story! I received an authors copy and I have left an honest review!

[Larrissa Parde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!

Well I should start by saying for the first time I really didn't like our alpha hero Rory! He is the paramedic of the family, so a little different feel since he isn't in law enforcement. When he first meets Sandy, there is definitely a great connection. I legit wanted to knock some sense into him the way he treated her after letting gossip influence him. The one thing I love about Maryann Jordan books is that as you go deeper into the story and learn more about the characters and why they do what they do its easier to fall in love with them! I loved Sandy's character, she was strong and smart and lived by her own rules. It didn't take too long for Rory to come around and be the man you she needed. They were so good together and when he finally opened up to her it was beautiful. He was so sweet and so HOT! As always the mystery and intrigue is top notch and keeps the pages turning! Absolutely loved this addition to a stellar series!

[Cindy Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

I know that a Maryann Jordan story is going to be a wonderful read and this author delivered in a big way. Rory was an adventure not to be missed.
Rory was a returning vet that knew what he wanted to
achieve. He was determined to achieve his goals of becoming a full on paramedic and didn’t think he was in a position to become involved in a relationship.
Sandy, a beautiful hard working woman, felt an attraction to Rory that on the surface was a mutual reaction. They clicked. Rory wasn’t looking for Ms Right thinking the timing was all wrong. He had the misfortune to listen to others about Sandy and judged her by what his friends had to say. Rory jumped to conclusions and rudely distanced himself.
I just loved how the author brings them together and how they develop their relationship.
This story is a great edition to the Hope City series and I can’t wait for the next adventure!

[Arlene M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory McBride and Sandy Carmichael

Rory is a paramedic with the Hope City Fire Department after recently
Being an Army medic.

Sandy is a designer of office and living spaces.

Rory and Sandy met at The Celtic Cock pub where police, firemen, and first responders hangout.

Rory and Sandy are attracted to each and sparks fly.

After a couple of times Rory backs off after listening to people’s opinion
about Sandy.

The bar incident causes Rory to rethink through about Sandy.
Sandy becomes in danger from her job, when she sees things aren’t
Right with the electrical wiring in the building.

Rory and Sandy work things out and become a couple.

This book grabbed you from the beginning, it was auctioned packed, a page turner, great characters and small town atmosphere of families like The McBrides and The Kings.

[Dana zamora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory has chosen a different path from the rest of the family, as a Army medic he wanted to be a firemen and paramedic, Sandy wanted to prove she can do her own thing and not rely on her father, wanting to make her own money, instant sparks when the two met at the Celtic rooster pub, not following his beliefs and listening to gossip Rory pulled away from Sandy, groveling helps him back into her good graces, Sandy's design business in tasked to decorate a new building but things aren't adding up, having the McBride family to learn from a bounce ideas off of she learns more history of organized crime in Hope City, bedroom confessions of past histories between them, saving in a fire, trust and love make for a happy ending, I have voluntarily read and review this ARC, thank you for the privilege, I look forward to more of Hope City and watching the families grow, thank you, Dana Zamora

[Julia M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my word! Maryann has done it again! Rory is just home from the army and working hard to get his paramedic qualification whilst living at home to save money. With typical bad timing he meets the woman of his dreams and miraculously she is into him too. Stupidly he listens to people who give him misleading information and lets her go. Sandy is devastated but determined not to show it as her best friend is marrying Rory’s brother and she can’t avoid him.
A few months pass and Rory and Sandy keep bumping into each other, Rory realises he’s been a jerk and decides to try and make amends. Read and see if she forgives him whilst caught up in work herself.
This is a beautiful love story where not everything falls easily into place. I thoroughly enjoyed it and received this as an ARC for an honest review.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Sensational Romance .
I volunteered to read and review an advanced readers copy of Rory . This is book 7 in the Hope City series . This story is fantastic . The characters are outstanding . It's action packed , romantic and suspenseful just out all spectacular . Rory McBride volunteered firefighter then EMT , meets Sandy Carmichael
who owns Carmichael Designs .Their attraction is strong but after he listens to a group of men she has turned down dates with . He judges her thinking she's a rich girl tease and he hurts her feelings . Sandy moves on from Rory and concentrates on her new job designing Partridge Towers . Rory realizes what a terrible mistake he's made with Sandy . Rory begs for her forgiveness and a second chance . Sandy finds herself in danger and Rory must come to her rescue . I highly recommend taking the time to read .

[Amanda Zook · Rating 5 out of 5]

When happy go lucky Rory let's bitter people get in his head and acts like a big jerk face, you may wonder what Maryann Jordan was thinking. But don't worry, Rory's idiocy doesn't last and he returns to being the McBride we all love.
Rory and Sandy meet and sparks fly. And each subsequent meeting brings them closer. Until Rory, acting completely out of character, allows his frenemies poisonous words about her get in his head. He acts in a manner completely unbecoming of a McBride. Words are exchanged and months pass until Rory finally pulls his head out of his ass and realizes how perfect Sandy is for him. He does the unthinkable for a man, he apologizes. And like the lady she is, she accepts and the sparks are back.
And speaking of sparks, Sandy is designing office spaces in a high rise and stumbled across a shady electrician cutting corners. And of course, she gets caught in the middle.
Another wonderful addition to the Hope City series with characters that make you fall in love with them as they fall.

[Renee Entress · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 star

I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, sadness, secrets, pain, suspense, and heartbreak.

The below is also in the series with this book:
A Hope City Duet (Hope City, #1) by Kris Michaels
Sean (Hope City Book 2) by Maryann Jordan
Carter (Hope City, #3) by Maryann Jordan
Brody (Hope City, #4) by Kris Michaels
Kyle (Hope City #5) by Maryann Jordan
Ryker (Hope City, #6) by Kris Michaels


This is Sandy and Rory’s story. Rory is a paramedic and a protector. When Sandy a woman who he finds he has an interest in need help he steps up. But does she want his help? What happens when secrets are revealed will they pull these two together or tear them apart?

I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I highly recommend this book.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory has left his military career in his past and is looking forward to the next stage of his life which includes spending time with his family and becoming a paramedic. When he meets Sandy he is drawn to her in a way he wasn’t expecting but he allows the misconceptions of others to end their relationship before it begins.

Sandy may come from an affluent lifestyle but she has had a difficult past. She has worked hard to create her own interior design company and isn’t about to be waylaid by people who don’t really know her. When fate brings them together once again will Rory prove himself worthy of a second chance or are they destined to go their separate ways once again?

A heartwarming romance with a little intrigue as Rory realizes that his life is much more fulfilling with Sandy in it than out of it.

[Teresa Christianson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory and Sandy are awesome

When you listen to other people's opinions of someone else, you miss the opportunity to get to know the real person. Rory finally realizes he screwed up and hopes Sandy will forgive him and give him a second chance. Now that he realizes she is just a herd working lady who happens to have a dad that is rich and she is making her own way and not living off daddy's money like others have said. She is working hard for her design company and comes across some shoddy work but when she questions it, everyone tells her to stay in her own lane and out of other people's business. Now when there is a problem at the open house for the building that she did the interior design for, what will happen to her? How bad is she hurt and will they find out who cut corners on expenses?