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Leading Lauren
Can this broken woman and haunted firefighter overcome their pasts to enjoy a future together?
Lauren Andrews returned to Redwood Cove for her aunt’s funeral on the cusp of a second failed relationship. Despite inheriting her late aunt’s home and three-year-old golden retriever, Max, feelings of heartbreak and heartache leave Lauren feeling lost and insecure in her new hometown.
Mitch Olsen is a search and rescue pilot and firefighter who works hard to protect his fellow Redwood Cove residents. No matter how many times he makes a save, Mitch’s constant battle with his demons discourage any hope of reclaiming a sense of self-worth.
As fate throws Lauren and Mitch into each other’s lives, the only thing they agree on is that it couldn’t have happened at a worse possible time. Is it possible for Mitch to convince Lauren that she’s worthy of something real?
Find out if Max’s calming presence and unconditional love can teach his humans that it’s never too late to find the way to a happily ever after. This sweet, suspenseful story about trust and following your heart will warm your heart… Order your copy and start reading today!
Leading Lauren is book eleven in the Gold Coast Retrievers series. Each book stands completely on its own, but you'll have more fun if you read them all together!
Lauren Andrews returned to Redwood Cove for her aunt’s funeral on the cusp of a second failed relationship. Despite inheriting her late aunt’s home and three-year-old golden retriever, Max, feelings of heartbreak and heartache leave Lauren feeling lost and insecure in her new hometown.
Mitch Olsen is a search and rescue pilot and firefighter who works hard to protect his fellow Redwood Cove residents. No matter how many times he makes a save, Mitch’s constant battle with his demons discourage any hope of reclaiming a sense of self-worth.
As fate throws Lauren and Mitch into each other’s lives, the only thing they agree on is that it couldn’t have happened at a worse possible time. Is it possible for Mitch to convince Lauren that she’s worthy of something real?
Find out if Max’s calming presence and unconditional love can teach his humans that it’s never too late to find the way to a happily ever after. This sweet, suspenseful story about trust and following your heart will warm your heart… Order your copy and start reading today!
Leading Lauren is book eleven in the Gold Coast Retrievers series. Each book stands completely on its own, but you'll have more fun if you read them all together!
137 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2019
347 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 1, 2019
The Gold Coast Retriever series is very enjoyable. I don't read many books that have animals having such a large part in the book so it's a positive addition. You will be drawn into the suspense with a few raise the hair on your arms moments. A slow burn romance, they are good for each other giving each other a boost in confidence and showing the other person they can overcome fears and self doubts.
Published June 28th 2019 by Sweet Promise Press.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Published June 28th 2019 by Sweet Promise Press.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
June 28, 2019
I enjoy this book about starting over. I like stories that involve inheriting a new start and dogs. It is well written, has a dog and is just a sweet romance.
I volunteer to read an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
I volunteer to read an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
December 8, 2019
Lauren has had her heart broken by failed relationships and now the death of her aunt has closed her heart for sure. Maybe moving back to this small town will give her time to heal her heart. Her aunts golden retriever seems to know just what she needs and is there for her as needed. Will she be able to move forward and be happy? Grab your copy today and enjoy this beautiful story and the warmth in the wonderful characters.
July 1, 2019
LEADING LAUREN is the eleventh book in the Gold Coast Retrievers series. Each is a stand-alone, contemporary, Christian, suspense romance.
I loved the romance and the suspense of this story. Lauren and Mitch clicked together from the first moment that they met and from there little sparks soon became a bonfire that could not be ignored.
There is one part that Lauren did something that she knew was foolish (I won’t say the word “stupid,” though I want to), but it was a necessary plot tool to move the story forward. I hope none of us would fall for that wicked witch tactic in real life!
Vickie Carroll is a new-to-me author; in fact, this is only her third release. If this is what she can produce as a novice, I can’t wait to see what she brings to us as she grows!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: LEADING LAUREN
Series: Gold Coast Retrievers #11
Category /Genre: Christian Romance, Contemporary
Recommended for: 14+ due to romance & suspense
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Sweet Promise Press
I loved the romance and the suspense of this story. Lauren and Mitch clicked together from the first moment that they met and from there little sparks soon became a bonfire that could not be ignored.
There is one part that Lauren did something that she knew was foolish (I won’t say the word “stupid,” though I want to), but it was a necessary plot tool to move the story forward. I hope none of us would fall for that wicked witch tactic in real life!
Vickie Carroll is a new-to-me author; in fact, this is only her third release. If this is what she can produce as a novice, I can’t wait to see what she brings to us as she grows!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: LEADING LAUREN
Series: Gold Coast Retrievers #11
Category /Genre: Christian Romance, Contemporary
Recommended for: 14+ due to romance & suspense
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Sweet Promise Press
November 12, 2021
And the lost shall be found
Lauren Andrews inherited her aunt’s house, car and dog Max. She grew up in Redwood Cove with her aunt so she was familiar with the area. However, it didn’t help her grieving as she could feel her aunt everywhere living in the house. In other ways it was a comfort. Mitch Olsen was a member of the Redwood Cove Search and Rescue team with the Redwood Cove Fire Department but was on extended leave due injuries from his plane crashing. He didn’t know if he wanted to get back into flying again. The first time he saw Lauren he was smitten. However, his previous girlfriend was a little unstable mentally wise and threatened Lauren to stay away from Mitch. Eventually, Lauren was drugged and kidnapped by the old girlfriend and left in the forest alone to find her own way out. This time Mitch was highly motivated to get back in an airplane and look for Lauren. With the help of Max, her aunt’s golden retriever, Lauren was found. This was a wonderful, heartfelt story that brought tears to my eyes. I highly recommend reading this.
Lauren Andrews inherited her aunt’s house, car and dog Max. She grew up in Redwood Cove with her aunt so she was familiar with the area. However, it didn’t help her grieving as she could feel her aunt everywhere living in the house. In other ways it was a comfort. Mitch Olsen was a member of the Redwood Cove Search and Rescue team with the Redwood Cove Fire Department but was on extended leave due injuries from his plane crashing. He didn’t know if he wanted to get back into flying again. The first time he saw Lauren he was smitten. However, his previous girlfriend was a little unstable mentally wise and threatened Lauren to stay away from Mitch. Eventually, Lauren was drugged and kidnapped by the old girlfriend and left in the forest alone to find her own way out. This time Mitch was highly motivated to get back in an airplane and look for Lauren. With the help of Max, her aunt’s golden retriever, Lauren was found. This was a wonderful, heartfelt story that brought tears to my eyes. I highly recommend reading this.
June 28, 2019
I have read several books in this Gold Coast Retrievers series and they have been fantastic. This one has great characters, romance, and suspense to keep you riveted and turning the pages.
Lauren Andrews has moved from San Francisco to Redwood Cove, California. She inherited her Aunt Margo's house, car and therapy dog, Max. I enjoyed watching Lauren decide what to do since she was at a crossroad in her life.
Mitch Olsen is a firefighter and did search and rescue with his own plane. He is at a crossroad too since his plane crashed and his good friend was killed. He is not sure that he wants to fly again.
I enjoyed watching these two characters together. There was definitely sparks, chemistry and suspense. Throw in an ex-boyfriend wanting Lauren back and a crazy ex-girlfriend and you have a great story that I could not put down. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
Lauren Andrews has moved from San Francisco to Redwood Cove, California. She inherited her Aunt Margo's house, car and therapy dog, Max. I enjoyed watching Lauren decide what to do since she was at a crossroad in her life.
Mitch Olsen is a firefighter and did search and rescue with his own plane. He is at a crossroad too since his plane crashed and his good friend was killed. He is not sure that he wants to fly again.
I enjoyed watching these two characters together. There was definitely sparks, chemistry and suspense. Throw in an ex-boyfriend wanting Lauren back and a crazy ex-girlfriend and you have a great story that I could not put down. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
July 2, 2019
This was my second story in this series and I really enjoyed this particular story and the characters! Mitch and Lauren see each other first in the lawyer's office where they each have personal business. This couple click with their first contact, but can they get through their individual broken relationships, the ex they each have to deal with, the changes that each of them are making in their personal lives, and make it to positive relationship for the two of them that will also include Max, her aunt's rescue dog? An engaging read that pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This is my voluntary, honest and completely personal review.
VICKI FROM WYOMING
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This is my voluntary, honest and completely personal review.
VICKI FROM WYOMING
September 20, 2019
I liked the premise of this book. Lauren's aunt dies and leaves Lauren her house and a golden retriever trained as a therapy dog. When she moved to the small town, she met Mitch who survived a small plane crash. They each have exes that want to rekindle relationships and have difficulty understanding they are exes. This creates drama that becomes the heart of the story.
While I liked the premise, the execution fell flat. Lauren doesn't listen to Mitch or her neighbors warn her about Mitch's ex-girlfriend. It becomes repetitive. Warning: ignore. Another warning: same result. Page after page of this. Of course, the reader knows something is going to happen. All I wanted to do was slap her upside her head and say, "Don't be stupid!"
While I liked the premise, the execution fell flat. Lauren doesn't listen to Mitch or her neighbors warn her about Mitch's ex-girlfriend. It becomes repetitive. Warning: ignore. Another warning: same result. Page after page of this. Of course, the reader knows something is going to happen. All I wanted to do was slap her upside her head and say, "Don't be stupid!"
June 29, 2019
Leading Lauren by Vickie Carroll has the newest booking the Gold Coast Retrievers series and is well worth the read. In fact, I read it in one night, it’s that good!!!! Lauren moves back to Redwood Cove, CA after her aunt dies and leaves her her house. Mitch was an injured in a plane crash that killed his best friend and he was a member of the Redwood Cove Search and Rescue team for the Redwood Cove Fire Department. Can two injured hearts heal each other especially when Mitch’s ex-girlfriend starts staking Lauren. Jennie wanted to kill Lauren for ‘stealing’ Mitch and kidnaps her. Can Mitch find her and save her or is that the end of their story? That is what keeps you reading.
June 28, 2019
I received a free advance review copy of this book and am voluntarily providing my honest review. These Gold Coast Retriever book just keep getting better and better. After her aunt passes away, Lauren inherits her home and dog. She takes her time picking up the dog and then realizes she should have picked him up earlier because he is what she needs. Lauren meets Mitch and between the two of them they figure out what they both want for the future. This is a great book and I recommend it.
July 1, 2019
It is mainly about second chances for Lauren who has left her boyfriend, city and job to move into her aunt's house and Mitch, who is on medical leave after being injured in a search and rescue mission. Both find each other and discover the support they need to take chances. The secondary characters of Lou and Joe are wonderful additions. The biggest problem is that Lauren has a TSTL moment and visits Mitch's crazy ex girlfriend who has been stalking her. It did bring about them finding their HEA
July 1, 2019
Leading Lauren by Vickie Carroll is a suspenseful romantic story. Lauren Andrews inherits her Aunts cottage and her service dog Max with instructions to keep Max and keep him working. Mitch a search and rescue/firefighter is recovering from a serious plane crash where his best friend and partner died. Both Lauren and Mitch are dealing with past relationships that is creating havoc in their relationship. Leading Lauren is wonderful exciting story of suspense and romance. I received this book as an arc for an honest review of it.
July 7, 2019
A great story about overcoming painful experiences. The characters were well written making me feel as if I knew the personally. I loved Max who I could clearly see in my minds eye! The plot was wonderful, Mitch and Lauren helping each other to over come their past hurts and insecurities. The romance is sweet and the author did a great job by not rushing it. The plot kept me trying to figure out who was behind the stalking of Lauren. I was surprised in the end and pleasantly entertained! Will read more books by Vickie Carroll.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
July 5, 2019
I enjoy a good love story that isn’t too simple or sappy, and “Leading Lauren” is one of those. The characters are interesting, the dog is lovable, and there is plenty of humor and romantic tension with a variety of possible pairings. There is also some genuine drama that comes as the tensions escalate and ‘boil over’.
I received a free advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily providing my honest review. I enjoyed this story in the Gold Coast Retrievers Series and happily recommend it.
I received a free advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily providing my honest review. I enjoyed this story in the Gold Coast Retrievers Series and happily recommend it.
July 17, 2019
Crazy ex's, a sweet and faithful Golden Retriever, two good neighbours and two main characters who try to get a new start in life. Mitch survived a traumatic accident and a break up and has to figure out what he wants with his life. Lauren lost her aunt, who was like a mothwr to her, and inherited a house and a dog. She has to figure out what to do with those. And both suffer from a crazy ex, who can't leave them alone.
Really nice story in this wonderful series!
Really nice story in this wonderful series!
June 27, 2019
This book has it all action, suspense, and romance. It is well written and keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next. If you love dogs and are looking for a good clean book, grab this one. It's a winner! I received an ARC copy from the publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 27, 2019
Lauren has just inherited her aunt Margo’s house and her loving golden retriever Max. Is she ready to start a new life in Redwood Cove and leave behind her cheating ex-boyfriend Dan in Summer San Francisco? Chuck is trying to recover from the accident that cost his friend’s life. Can Max help Lauren and chuck find a purpose in life when a dangerous situation arise?
June 30, 2019
Loved the storyline, characters.
Lauren's aunt left her everything in her will, even Max her dog. Lauren is starting over after finding out her boyfriend cheated on her with her best friend.
Mitch lost his best friend in plane accident, which he survived. He feels guilty.
Lauren and Mitch are working on project together, will this be begining of something else?
Lauren's aunt left her everything in her will, even Max her dog. Lauren is starting over after finding out her boyfriend cheated on her with her best friend.
Mitch lost his best friend in plane accident, which he survived. He feels guilty.
Lauren and Mitch are working on project together, will this be begining of something else?
June 30, 2019
Another good story in the Gold Coast Retrievers series. Lauren inherits not only her aunt’s home, but Max, her Golden Retriever. Lauren meets up with Mitch who is recovering from a plane crash and they work on developing a program using his skills, Max’s training and her skills.
Good interaction between main characters and a bit of mystery added too.
Good interaction between main characters and a bit of mystery added too.
July 2, 2019
This is a great story in the Gold Coast Retrievers series. Lauren feels she is unlovable when she moves into her newly inherited house. She isnt even sure Max her aunts adorable dog will bond with her. Then she meets Mitch and likes what she sees and her ex wants her back. Decisions need to be made I. This sweet romance.
July 4, 2019
This series just keeps getting better.
The stories aren't just heartwarming but involve emotions too.
The characters in this book deal with overcoming obstacles and getting to know each other better.
It has romance and mystery and a dog of course.
The author has written a book you can't put down.
The stories aren't just heartwarming but involve emotions too.
The characters in this book deal with overcoming obstacles and getting to know each other better.
It has romance and mystery and a dog of course.
The author has written a book you can't put down.
July 25, 2019
I received a free copy for an honest review.
I loved this story! A perfect blend of love and suspense. Lauren loses her aunt but gains a lot of knowledge into herself, her wants, her needs. Add a handsome man named Mitch, also struggling with where he wants the next steps of his life to be, and you have a great story! Oh, and don't forget a loyal golden retriever! LOL
I loved this story! A perfect blend of love and suspense. Lauren loses her aunt but gains a lot of knowledge into herself, her wants, her needs. Add a handsome man named Mitch, also struggling with where he wants the next steps of his life to be, and you have a great story! Oh, and don't forget a loyal golden retriever! LOL
August 8, 2019
Mending Hearts
Why do people make the choices they do? Lauren has chosen two slick losers/users in a row. This last breakup, combined with the loss of the beloved aunt she'd been nursing, has her thinking she's worthless and not lovable. But therapy dog Max exercises a certain power over those who are lost and in need.
Why do people make the choices they do? Lauren has chosen two slick losers/users in a row. This last breakup, combined with the loss of the beloved aunt she'd been nursing, has her thinking she's worthless and not lovable. But therapy dog Max exercises a certain power over those who are lost and in need.
April 12, 2021
Leading Lauren
Another great book in this series on the Gold Coast Retrievers(therapy dogs) used to help people get over their anxiety and any other problems they have. Great read and one you will enjoy reading, about dogs and their owners. This is my review and mine alone. Norma Gorrill
Another great book in this series on the Gold Coast Retrievers(therapy dogs) used to help people get over their anxiety and any other problems they have. Great read and one you will enjoy reading, about dogs and their owners. This is my review and mine alone. Norma Gorrill
June 27, 2019
Leading Lauren was book #11 on the Gold Coast Retrievers Series, although this is only my second book in this series I have enjoyed them both. I truly enjoy books that contain dogs in the storyline. I would certainly recommend this book to others.
June 28, 2019
My favorite character in Leading Lauren is Max! Lauren, Mitch, Roy, and Lauren's neighbors are also pretty great. Lauren and Mitch both need to heal from things in their pasts. Mich's crazy ex lends some suspense to the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this romance.
June 29, 2019
Wonderful story. A great addition to the Gold Coast Retrievers series.
Heartfelt and emotional read with a good storyline
Loved Max!!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Heartfelt and emotional read with a good storyline
Loved Max!!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 5, 2019
This is such a fun series. I love that Vickie Carroll has given us a story showing the importance of therapy dogs in addition to the more visual use in search and rescue. Mitch and Lauren both need Max. I totally enjoyed this book.
July 1, 2021
A good book
This was a good dog/people story. At least although sad from a death you gain a house, car, and dog. Also after broken relationships it shows how 2 people can work on minor life issues and find true love. It has good characters and a good storyline.
CMcCrork
This was a good dog/people story. At least although sad from a death you gain a house, car, and dog. Also after broken relationships it shows how 2 people can work on minor life issues and find true love. It has good characters and a good storyline.
CMcCrork
June 28, 2019
Highly recommend this book and this series. I love it and have read them all!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews