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Callaghan Brothers #6
Beyond Affection
Shane Callaghan is used to drawing female attention, but this is the first time a woman actually drooled over him. From the moment he spotted the pretty blonde catching a few z's during his lecture, a spark ignited deep in his chest. And each minute he spends with the gentle-hearted kindergarten teacher only fans the flames. Lacie McCain is not the type of woman to be easily smitten, but as soon as the gorgeous lawyer turns those beautiful blues her way, she is a goner. His quiet intensity and gentlemanly charm are impossible to resist. Shane and Lacie are meant to be together. Everyone can see that. Everyone except the one who is determined to keep them apart. Contains mature themes.
8 pages, Audio CD
First published March 24, 2015
795 people are currently reading
771 people want to read
About the author
Abbie Zanders
84 books2,046 followersAbbie Zanders is a USA Today Bestselling Author with more than 55 published romance novels to date. Her stories range from contemporary to paranormal and everything in between. She promises her readers two things: happily ever afters, always, and no cliffhangers, ever.
Born and raised in the mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, where she sets most of her stories, she’s known for small town romance featuring golden-hearted alpha heroes and strong, relatable heroines. Besides being an avid reader and writer, she loves animals (especially big dogs), American muscle cars, and 80's hair bands.
Born and raised in the mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, where she sets most of her stories, she’s known for small town romance featuring golden-hearted alpha heroes and strong, relatable heroines. Besides being an avid reader and writer, she loves animals (especially big dogs), American muscle cars, and 80's hair bands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
December 13, 2023
The lawyer and the teacher!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙❤️💜
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌍
Character development: 🙃😊😘🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Solo Narration
The heroine: Lacie - she is a quiet and subdued kindergarten teacher in Pine Ridge. She is somewhat accident prone. She had an older brother who went missing in action while in Afghanistan. Her brother’s best friend Craig has since taken over for her brother in looking after her and lives across the hall from her in the same apartment building. He is a bit overbearing in his protection and she often has to assert her independence.
The Hero: Shane - he is a former Navy Seal who still does some covert special ops type work with his brothers and father, their team is called the Ghost team since they can do things that others won't or can’t do. He is also a lawyer and owns the local gym in Pine Ridge. He is considered the quiet one of the seven boys his father has raised.
The Story: Shane was guest lecturing at a local college when a beautiful blonde woman started nodding off mid lecture. He thinks she is beautiful and when he wakes her up after the class, she compliments his warm, rich voice. She says his lovely voice (in addition to her not getting enough sleep lately) was responsible for her nodding off during the class.
Like the rest of this series, I love the characters. Shane is a bit more toned down than the rest of the Callaghan clan and of course he falls for a kind and gentle kindergarten teacher. So, this book was a bit sweeter than most of the other books, though Shane does have the standard protectiveness that all his brothers feel for their ladies. I like that the Callaghans have this idea that when they find their soulmate they know it right away and Shane did just like his brothers.
This audiobook was done in dual points of view via solo narration. It was narrated by Aiden Snow, who is one of my favorite male narrators. He has a terrific voice, which is deep and soft. He is a great narrator and is perfect for a strong military man. I like dual or duet narration a lot better, though if you are going to have only one narrator, Aiden Snow is the one to have!
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙❤️💜
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌍
Character development: 🙃😊😘🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Solo Narration
The heroine: Lacie - she is a quiet and subdued kindergarten teacher in Pine Ridge. She is somewhat accident prone. She had an older brother who went missing in action while in Afghanistan. Her brother’s best friend Craig has since taken over for her brother in looking after her and lives across the hall from her in the same apartment building. He is a bit overbearing in his protection and she often has to assert her independence.
The Hero: Shane - he is a former Navy Seal who still does some covert special ops type work with his brothers and father, their team is called the Ghost team since they can do things that others won't or can’t do. He is also a lawyer and owns the local gym in Pine Ridge. He is considered the quiet one of the seven boys his father has raised.
The Story: Shane was guest lecturing at a local college when a beautiful blonde woman started nodding off mid lecture. He thinks she is beautiful and when he wakes her up after the class, she compliments his warm, rich voice. She says his lovely voice (in addition to her not getting enough sleep lately) was responsible for her nodding off during the class.
Like the rest of this series, I love the characters. Shane is a bit more toned down than the rest of the Callaghan clan and of course he falls for a kind and gentle kindergarten teacher. So, this book was a bit sweeter than most of the other books, though Shane does have the standard protectiveness that all his brothers feel for their ladies. I like that the Callaghans have this idea that when they find their soulmate they know it right away and Shane did just like his brothers.
This audiobook was done in dual points of view via solo narration. It was narrated by Aiden Snow, who is one of my favorite male narrators. He has a terrific voice, which is deep and soft. He is a great narrator and is perfect for a strong military man. I like dual or duet narration a lot better, though if you are going to have only one narrator, Aiden Snow is the one to have!
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March 28, 2015
I have enjoyed all the books in this series, what’s not to like about a Callahan brother? Ms Zanders really does make insta-love work due to the croie story line throughout the series. Yes there’s a fair bit of cheese but again Ms Zanders works it.
That said, I felt a bit let down by this one. The suspense line was a bit weak as we know who the baddie is virtually from the beginning, I like to be kept guessing. Still, I loved the idea of it and really felt for what Lacie went through even though she irritated the crap out of me with her not seeing Craig for the whack-job he was DESPITE her sister and Shane warning her.
We got snatches with all the brothers and got more on what Taryn went through in her story and how she is still dealing with it. The horror Brian went through could have been explored so much more, and I also wanted to see more of Lacie and Shane after the big event. The ending was so rushed I blinked and it was done. I just didn't feel it this time.
That said, I felt a bit let down by this one. The suspense line was a bit weak as we know who the baddie is virtually from the beginning, I like to be kept guessing. Still, I loved the idea of it and really felt for what Lacie went through even though she irritated the crap out of me with her not seeing Craig for the whack-job he was DESPITE her sister and Shane warning her.
We got snatches with all the brothers and got more on what Taryn went through in her story and how she is still dealing with it. The horror Brian went through could have been explored so much more, and I also wanted to see more of Lacie and Shane after the big event. The ending was so rushed I blinked and it was done. I just didn't feel it this time.
August 4, 2015
An unforgettable first meeting...
This was probably the hardest Callaghan Brothers story to read. Lacie and Shane meet when she falls asleep in a lecture Shane is giving. Shane almost immediately feels a very strong attraction that is overwhelming and unusual. It doesn't take him long to realise and accept that Lacie is his croie.
Lacie's brother is MIA overseas while serving his country and his best friend Brian has taken it upon himself to be her protector. Unfortunately his actions become extreme and we come to realise he's obsessed.
This was a hard story to like. We have what appears to be a delusional heroine who doesn't see the truth in Brian's actions and a hero who should no better, not protecting the love of his life. I also didn't particularly like seeing into Brian's mind and his reasons behind his actions. How on earth her family did not see his actions for what they are is beyond me.
I realise all my opinions are because I am seeing this from a birds eyes view, and the feeling it provoked were on what I was seeing, not living. Abbie Zanders did her job too well. I felt too much.
This wasn't my favourite in the series, but it is a part of the Callaghan's story. I can't believe there's only one brother left. Hurry up Ms Zanders, I am waiting patiently...not.
This was probably the hardest Callaghan Brothers story to read. Lacie and Shane meet when she falls asleep in a lecture Shane is giving. Shane almost immediately feels a very strong attraction that is overwhelming and unusual. It doesn't take him long to realise and accept that Lacie is his croie.
Lacie's brother is MIA overseas while serving his country and his best friend Brian has taken it upon himself to be her protector. Unfortunately his actions become extreme and we come to realise he's obsessed.
This was a hard story to like. We have what appears to be a delusional heroine who doesn't see the truth in Brian's actions and a hero who should no better, not protecting the love of his life. I also didn't particularly like seeing into Brian's mind and his reasons behind his actions. How on earth her family did not see his actions for what they are is beyond me.
I realise all my opinions are because I am seeing this from a birds eyes view, and the feeling it provoked were on what I was seeing, not living. Abbie Zanders did her job too well. I felt too much.
This wasn't my favourite in the series, but it is a part of the Callaghan's story. I can't believe there's only one brother left. Hurry up Ms Zanders, I am waiting patiently...not.
March 26, 2015
4.0 RATING- for readers that have enjoyed other books in this series, this most likely will be an enjoyable read. Sure its heavy on the cheese but I think that's what works for me in this series. The stories may not be believable, the heroines may make bad decisions, etc... but I always know what I'm getting. A strong protective male and a damsel in distress. Sometimes, I just don't need any more. As a self proclaimed Queen of Guilty Pleasure Reads, I'm not ashamed to say this series rates high on the readability scale for me. Plus, I just really like those Callaghan Brothers =)
Note: At the time this review was posted, this book was available to borrow through Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program.
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Note: At the time this review was posted, this book was available to borrow through Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program.
To see other books available to borrow through Kindle Unlimited or SCRIBD, check out the Subscription Addiction group
https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
June 20, 2015
Beyond Affection is the sixth book in Abbie Zanders “Callaghan Brothers” series. It can be read as a standalone, but I would highly suggest starting at the very beginning of the series. You won’t miss much by not starting there, but you will miss out on interaction and the build up to one of the main characters in this book. That being said, as usually, Ms. Zanders has laid out a wonderful story in which I completely lost myself… again.
Shane Callaghan is the thinker of the family. He’s insanely smart, loyal and while quiet, he wears his heart on his sleeve for those he cares about. He’s go head to head with all the bad things in the world if it meant keeping people safe, and he has multiple times. I personally looked forward to Shane’s story, he’s that strong, silent type that you know has a boiling point under the surface. Still water runs deep. :D
Lacie has heard about Shane and his family before, but she’s never seen him in person. Imagine her surprise when his voice lulls her right to sleep, in the middle of a guest lecture he’s giving. She wakes up to find herself drooling, literally, on the hand of one of the most handsome blue-eyed men she has ever seen in her life. Luckily, Lacie has a great sense of humor and can easily let it roll off her.
Shane is instantly charmed by Lacie, and not really sure why exactly. Lacie is likewise smitten, but that is completely unusual for her. Mind you, this is not love at first sight. She doesn’t normally date and for the last few years has been focused on school, work and trying to find her missing brother. These two remind me of a slow burn, that before you know it, is up in flames. All the kindling is there and it makes for a fabulous read.
Of course, things with the Callaghan’s are never quiet that easy. There are situations and events that I don’t want to go into because they would throw out massive spoilers here, but it’s safe to say, this is a book well worth reading. Especially if you’re a fan of the series or Ms. Zanders books.
You may be wondering, with it being a favorite series of mine, why I rated this a four. Truth be told, while reading it I felt the beginning was rushed in some points. There was also a bit of awkwardness to it in some instances. You’re never fully told (You are shown, it’s just never written word for word.) outright what happens, and so you have to read between the lines for it. Now, that’s not a horrible thing, but some people may not catch on. I know for me, it had to reread a few paragraphs to make sure I was reading what I was. Finally, and this one is very likely a thing mostly on my part, the end felt slightly rushed also. Being that Shane is a favorite of mine, I wanted to see a bit more with the ending. I would still recommend it however!
Shane Callaghan is the thinker of the family. He’s insanely smart, loyal and while quiet, he wears his heart on his sleeve for those he cares about. He’s go head to head with all the bad things in the world if it meant keeping people safe, and he has multiple times. I personally looked forward to Shane’s story, he’s that strong, silent type that you know has a boiling point under the surface. Still water runs deep. :D
Lacie has heard about Shane and his family before, but she’s never seen him in person. Imagine her surprise when his voice lulls her right to sleep, in the middle of a guest lecture he’s giving. She wakes up to find herself drooling, literally, on the hand of one of the most handsome blue-eyed men she has ever seen in her life. Luckily, Lacie has a great sense of humor and can easily let it roll off her.
Shane is instantly charmed by Lacie, and not really sure why exactly. Lacie is likewise smitten, but that is completely unusual for her. Mind you, this is not love at first sight. She doesn’t normally date and for the last few years has been focused on school, work and trying to find her missing brother. These two remind me of a slow burn, that before you know it, is up in flames. All the kindling is there and it makes for a fabulous read.
Of course, things with the Callaghan’s are never quiet that easy. There are situations and events that I don’t want to go into because they would throw out massive spoilers here, but it’s safe to say, this is a book well worth reading. Especially if you’re a fan of the series or Ms. Zanders books.
You may be wondering, with it being a favorite series of mine, why I rated this a four. Truth be told, while reading it I felt the beginning was rushed in some points. There was also a bit of awkwardness to it in some instances. You’re never fully told (You are shown, it’s just never written word for word.) outright what happens, and so you have to read between the lines for it. Now, that’s not a horrible thing, but some people may not catch on. I know for me, it had to reread a few paragraphs to make sure I was reading what I was. Finally, and this one is very likely a thing mostly on my part, the end felt slightly rushed also. Being that Shane is a favorite of mine, I wanted to see a bit more with the ending. I would still recommend it however!
July 15, 2019
Beyond Affection is a great addition to this series. Shane is the Callaghan brother who is sure that he will not find his “Croie” as his brothers had, but from the moment he sees Lacie he feels that special connection straight to his heart.
Light suspense and light angst and oh, so much swoon!!
-4.5 Stars!-
Light suspense and light angst and oh, so much swoon!!
-4.5 Stars!-
May 10, 2015
5 I just can't get enough of those Callaghan Brothers Stars!
Where the hell is Pine Ridge and how do I get there..... like now!!!
How can these brother ALL be so damn perfect? I loved Jake, I loved Ian, I loved Michael, I loved Kane, I loved Sean and surprise, surprise I freaking loved Shane too!!! He was just the perfect combination of intelligent, sweet and sexy as hell.
Zanders has once again produced an amazing book filled with love, friendship, family, drama and passion that will have you hooked from the very beginning and leave you begging for more.
I'm not going to re-hash everything that happened in the book, I'll leave that for you to discover but what I will say is..... READ THIS BOOK NOW! ...... ACTUALLY READ THIS WHOLE DAMN SERIES NOW! you can thank me later!
Where the hell is Pine Ridge and how do I get there..... like now!!!
How can these brother ALL be so damn perfect? I loved Jake, I loved Ian, I loved Michael, I loved Kane, I loved Sean and surprise, surprise I freaking loved Shane too!!! He was just the perfect combination of intelligent, sweet and sexy as hell.
Zanders has once again produced an amazing book filled with love, friendship, family, drama and passion that will have you hooked from the very beginning and leave you begging for more.
I'm not going to re-hash everything that happened in the book, I'll leave that for you to discover but what I will say is..... READ THIS BOOK NOW! ...... ACTUALLY READ THIS WHOLE DAMN SERIES NOW! you can thank me later!
April 22, 2015
**Spoilers**
There is one reason, alone, for the one star rating. Lacie was drugged and raped. Up until that point, this was the best book in the series. I loved how Sean and Lacie were together. The instalove, the chemistry. And even the suspense and the ordeal had me wondering what would happen. But when I read that I was disgusted. IMO, The author didn't have to have that happen to her. There wasn't a detailed scene or anything, but the fact that it happened made me not want to even finish the book. I finished, but it was already ruined for me.
There is one reason, alone, for the one star rating. Lacie was drugged and raped. Up until that point, this was the best book in the series. I loved how Sean and Lacie were together. The instalove, the chemistry. And even the suspense and the ordeal had me wondering what would happen. But when I read that I was disgusted. IMO, The author didn't have to have that happen to her. There wasn't a detailed scene or anything, but the fact that it happened made me not want to even finish the book. I finished, but it was already ruined for me.
April 23, 2015
I need the last book like now :) I love these brothers and will be so sad when they end! The main thing I love about these books is the fact that each story, while close with the whole heart thing, each story is so different then the other, it made me read then one after another, some times I get bored but not with these bothers!!! Love them all!
January 22, 2018
Wtf, yuck no. When are authors gonna realize that rape is a lazy ass crutch of a plot device. And put a fucking warning before you drop that shit in a romance novel.
December 26, 2017
Unique and inspiring, totally loving it
Absolutely loving the series. Pretty much reading one a day as I seem to fly right through them. Each story is creative and as unique as the characters themselves. As always I love that she involves and brings back into the storyline all of the family members so you get an update as to where everyone is and what's going on. I highly recommend reading and starting from the beginning so you don't miss anything. The Callahan family is very special and I think something all of us would love to be a part of.
Happy Reading!
Absolutely loving the series. Pretty much reading one a day as I seem to fly right through them. Each story is creative and as unique as the characters themselves. As always I love that she involves and brings back into the storyline all of the family members so you get an update as to where everyone is and what's going on. I highly recommend reading and starting from the beginning so you don't miss anything. The Callahan family is very special and I think something all of us would love to be a part of.
Happy Reading!
May 13, 2024
One of the better ones in the series. 3.5 rounded up.
January 6, 2022
Could have been good but was awful - read on KU
The start of this book had promise. It wasn't terribly exciting but wasn't the bore the last book (or next one) was. The 3rd person pov has also worn on me. I'm at my limit of the author telling instead of showing. It's hard for an author to be able to "show" instead of "tell" in a romance when she uses third person.
Most of the rest of this review has spoilers. And the book involves rape.
Lacie and Shane were good together but she gets kidnapped at the 54% mark and she is never alone with Shane again. He does propose, which shouldn't be a spoiler since each book ends that way. But he does it in front of a group. They're never even alone again for a private conversation.
When Craig, her brother's best friend, kidnaps her, he keeps her drugged. It makes her hard to know, and us to be sure, that he is raping her and that it isn't just bad dreams. I wasn't 100% sure until it is brought up after she is in the hospital. The passage of time seemed very wrong, too. It was written to seem like a day had passed but then the story would imply it had been weeks. The amount of time that she was held prisoner by Craig was never clearly stated and seemed intentionally vague. He had her long enough to get her hooked on the drugs he was putting in her water.
It takes more than a few days for that to happen. Although, I don't think she went through withdrawals, so maybe she was as addicted as she thought before she was rescued. The school year ended but we didn't have a clear idea of how much was left but only that the end was nearing.
Also, this is a team that is able to find a missing military team that includes her brother half the way around the world and it takes them more than a day or two to track down Craig? Highly unlikely. That is probably the second biggest problem I have with the book. It is completely against what the author has conditioned us to expect from these mercenaries. They even have new government ties with Nicki's team. It made no sense it would take so long to find her. And though it wasn't clear how long it was, it was definitely more than a week. Craig, at one point, notes she has lost 5 lbs in the last week.
I just found it to be a pretty bad call for the author to allow the bad guy to kidnap her for so long and rape her. It was also inexplicable that Shane didn't completely lose his cool over it. For the most part, we don't see anything from him while she is missing. Unrealistic based on what we have observed with their family.
One further thing that irritated me, and this is a spoiler I didn't see in other reviews, is that it was never brought to light to Lacie or her brother that Craig set them up to be killed to begin with. He did it all because the brother told him to stay away from her. Surely the Callaghans would have figured it out.
Quite frankly, everything past the point where she is kidnapped seemed lazy and not well thought out. It's all vague, even after she is back home. I really hated the last half of this book.
The high ratings for this book kill me. They have to be from die hard fans that refuse to do anything but write 5 star reviews.
I kind of wish I had never started this series but I really should have stopped at book 4. I did stop at 7. I also will not be reading anything else from this author.
The start of this book had promise. It wasn't terribly exciting but wasn't the bore the last book (or next one) was. The 3rd person pov has also worn on me. I'm at my limit of the author telling instead of showing. It's hard for an author to be able to "show" instead of "tell" in a romance when she uses third person.
Most of the rest of this review has spoilers. And the book involves rape.
Lacie and Shane were good together but she gets kidnapped at the 54% mark and she is never alone with Shane again. He does propose, which shouldn't be a spoiler since each book ends that way. But he does it in front of a group. They're never even alone again for a private conversation.
When Craig, her brother's best friend, kidnaps her, he keeps her drugged. It makes her hard to know, and us to be sure, that he is raping her and that it isn't just bad dreams. I wasn't 100% sure until it is brought up after she is in the hospital. The passage of time seemed very wrong, too. It was written to seem like a day had passed but then the story would imply it had been weeks. The amount of time that she was held prisoner by Craig was never clearly stated and seemed intentionally vague. He had her long enough to get her hooked on the drugs he was putting in her water.
It takes more than a few days for that to happen. Although, I don't think she went through withdrawals, so maybe she was as addicted as she thought before she was rescued. The school year ended but we didn't have a clear idea of how much was left but only that the end was nearing.
Also, this is a team that is able to find a missing military team that includes her brother half the way around the world and it takes them more than a day or two to track down Craig? Highly unlikely. That is probably the second biggest problem I have with the book. It is completely against what the author has conditioned us to expect from these mercenaries. They even have new government ties with Nicki's team. It made no sense it would take so long to find her. And though it wasn't clear how long it was, it was definitely more than a week. Craig, at one point, notes she has lost 5 lbs in the last week.
I just found it to be a pretty bad call for the author to allow the bad guy to kidnap her for so long and rape her. It was also inexplicable that Shane didn't completely lose his cool over it. For the most part, we don't see anything from him while she is missing. Unrealistic based on what we have observed with their family.
One further thing that irritated me, and this is a spoiler I didn't see in other reviews, is that it was never brought to light to Lacie or her brother that Craig set them up to be killed to begin with. He did it all because the brother told him to stay away from her. Surely the Callaghans would have figured it out.
Quite frankly, everything past the point where she is kidnapped seemed lazy and not well thought out. It's all vague, even after she is back home. I really hated the last half of this book.
The high ratings for this book kill me. They have to be from die hard fans that refuse to do anything but write 5 star reviews.
I kind of wish I had never started this series but I really should have stopped at book 4. I did stop at 7. I also will not be reading anything else from this author.
July 9, 2018
This started out to be such a great love story between Shane and Lacie, then the psycho childhood friend/former best friend of her brother/current neighbor finally makes his move and this turns into a heartbreaking read with a poor excuse of an ending.
Lacie is the kind kindergarten teacher who is also studying to get her masters while taking night classes. It's during one of those classes when she falls asleep on guest lecturer Shane Callaghan. She literally drools on him and he finds her adorable, especially since she's a bit of a klutz. They spend hours chatting over coffee and Shane knows then that she is his Croi (his heart). He 'courts' her and it's very sweet and thoughtful. When they finally come together, it's beautiful and passionate and you're excited for their HEA. I really liked Lacie, but I thought she was incredibly stubborn in not believing everyone when they said Craig was too obsessed with her. And I thought that Shane was the perfect gentleman and so loving.
Then Craig, the overprotective childhood friend who apparently has a thing for Lacie, decides he doesn't like Shane and wants her for himself. It's predictable, but the guy was seriously insane and goes off the deep end. But apparently it wasn't the first time he'd done something insane and stupid.
As a side story, Lacie's brother was in the same unit as Craig and has been MIA for years, so she's also still trying to locate him.
Lacie is rescued, but it's obvious that she still has some things to work through and hasn't yet discussed it with anyone. Then they get married and live HEA. Yup, that was about all we get with the rest of their story. We don't see how Lacie is coping, if she's sought counseling, how her brother is doing now that he's been rescued by the Callaghans. The whole ending was incredibly rushed and that the was the most disappointing part of the book. I really wanted more to her brother's story and at the very least, some follow-up on Lacie and Shane's relationship. But all we really get in the epilogue is a reiteration of how cute the kids are...
Lacie is the kind kindergarten teacher who is also studying to get her masters while taking night classes. It's during one of those classes when she falls asleep on guest lecturer Shane Callaghan. She literally drools on him and he finds her adorable, especially since she's a bit of a klutz. They spend hours chatting over coffee and Shane knows then that she is his Croi (his heart). He 'courts' her and it's very sweet and thoughtful. When they finally come together, it's beautiful and passionate and you're excited for their HEA. I really liked Lacie, but I thought she was incredibly stubborn in not believing everyone when they said Craig was too obsessed with her. And I thought that Shane was the perfect gentleman and so loving.
Then Craig, the overprotective childhood friend who apparently has a thing for Lacie, decides he doesn't like Shane and wants her for himself. It's predictable, but the guy was seriously insane and goes off the deep end. But apparently it wasn't the first time he'd done something insane and stupid.
As a side story, Lacie's brother was in the same unit as Craig and has been MIA for years, so she's also still trying to locate him.
Lacie is rescued, but it's obvious that she still has some things to work through and hasn't yet discussed it with anyone. Then they get married and live HEA. Yup, that was about all we get with the rest of their story. We don't see how Lacie is coping, if she's sought counseling, how her brother is doing now that he's been rescued by the Callaghans. The whole ending was incredibly rushed and that the was the most disappointing part of the book. I really wanted more to her brother's story and at the very least, some follow-up on Lacie and Shane's relationship. But all we really get in the epilogue is a reiteration of how cute the kids are...
April 19, 2015
Awesome as always
I'm so happy with this series. The Callaghan's are a force to be reckoned with. This installment focuses on Shane and Lacie. Lacie is a quite kindergarten teacher taking night classes, when she meets Shane Callaghan. As per the usual for the Callaghan men, love at first sight ensues. Lacie's overprotective pseudo brother becomes a problem. Shane and the rest of the crew have to jump in and save the day.
The Good:
+Lacie is such a sweetheart. Loved her.
+ I liked the premise of this one. The whole secret obsession thing is scary, especially the lengths to which someone can go.
+ I also really liked that Shane and Lacie didn't even fight it. It just was. Up till now, the brothers were all in denial. Shane? Nope. Soulmate? Check. Moving right along.
+ Craig was scary. Which was good for the story, obviously.
The Bad:
- I wish there had been a bit more to the whole MIA brother side plot. I felt like it had to have been something that Craig helped put into motion, like with Mikayla, but it wasn't.
The Ugly:
-- I don't have any uglies for this one!
I'm so happy with this series. The Callaghan's are a force to be reckoned with. This installment focuses on Shane and Lacie. Lacie is a quite kindergarten teacher taking night classes, when she meets Shane Callaghan. As per the usual for the Callaghan men, love at first sight ensues. Lacie's overprotective pseudo brother becomes a problem. Shane and the rest of the crew have to jump in and save the day.
The Good:
+Lacie is such a sweetheart. Loved her.
+ I liked the premise of this one. The whole secret obsession thing is scary, especially the lengths to which someone can go.
+ I also really liked that Shane and Lacie didn't even fight it. It just was. Up till now, the brothers were all in denial. Shane? Nope. Soulmate? Check. Moving right along.
+ Craig was scary. Which was good for the story, obviously.
The Bad:
- I wish there had been a bit more to the whole MIA brother side plot. I felt like it had to have been something that Craig helped put into motion, like with Mikayla, but it wasn't.
The Ugly:
-- I don't have any uglies for this one!
September 26, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from Goodreads giveaways, thank you!
This book follows the main character, Lacie McCain as she meets the man of her dreams. He is a lawyer named Shane Callaghan who gives a guest lecture to Lacie's class. Except she falls asleep and when he wakes her up afterwards, she realizes she was even drooling! How embarassing. But they both feel immediate sparks and decide to go out for a coffee.
As they get to know each other, they both start to realize they are great together. However, Lacie's neighbor Craig does not feel the same way. Craig was in the military with Lacie's brother Brian, as well as being his best friend growing up.
This story was a fun read, with both action and romance. Lacie's misadventures lead to a rather dramatic finish, as she is rescued by Shane and his family when things seem darkest. I won't go into details so as not to spoil the ending, but will say that this story will appeal to any reader who likes a great romance or action book.
This book follows the main character, Lacie McCain as she meets the man of her dreams. He is a lawyer named Shane Callaghan who gives a guest lecture to Lacie's class. Except she falls asleep and when he wakes her up afterwards, she realizes she was even drooling! How embarassing. But they both feel immediate sparks and decide to go out for a coffee.
As they get to know each other, they both start to realize they are great together. However, Lacie's neighbor Craig does not feel the same way. Craig was in the military with Lacie's brother Brian, as well as being his best friend growing up.
This story was a fun read, with both action and romance. Lacie's misadventures lead to a rather dramatic finish, as she is rescued by Shane and his family when things seem darkest. I won't go into details so as not to spoil the ending, but will say that this story will appeal to any reader who likes a great romance or action book.
October 6, 2018
Laci McCain first meets Shane Callaghan when she falls asleep in his lecture room. It's embarrassing but also kind of cute. Shane had noticed her from the minute he'd arrived.
Laci a kindergarten teacher and Shane a lawyer. Two different people but they are meant to be one. From the moment he saw her he knew she was different. The heat and chemistry between them is plain. They can't help but fall in love.
But not everyone is happy with this sudden romance. When Laci's life is in danger it's going to take a whole lot of Callaghan's to bring this girl home.
Again I can't rate the high enough what Abbie has done with this series. Fresh stories but each one just as good as the last. Page turners that have you on the edge. And steam. Hot enough to melt your kindle.
Laci a kindergarten teacher and Shane a lawyer. Two different people but they are meant to be one. From the moment he saw her he knew she was different. The heat and chemistry between them is plain. They can't help but fall in love.
But not everyone is happy with this sudden romance. When Laci's life is in danger it's going to take a whole lot of Callaghan's to bring this girl home.
Again I can't rate the high enough what Abbie has done with this series. Fresh stories but each one just as good as the last. Page turners that have you on the edge. And steam. Hot enough to melt your kindle.
August 24, 2015
I liked the concept of this book but had a few issues with the speed of the relationship. I’m sure it is just me and no reflection of the book itself. I’m more of a “take it slow and sexy” kind of gal.
I liked our hero Shane Callaghan - big, bad, tough, and not afraid to show when he is scared or hurt.
I also liked Lacie McCain and actually understood her relationship with Craig - a friend of her brother’s. Despite what everyone was telling her, I honestly could understand her need to defend him.
I would definitely recommend this particular book. I will take a look at the others in this series.
I liked our hero Shane Callaghan - big, bad, tough, and not afraid to show when he is scared or hurt.
I also liked Lacie McCain and actually understood her relationship with Craig - a friend of her brother’s. Despite what everyone was telling her, I honestly could understand her need to defend him.
I would definitely recommend this particular book. I will take a look at the others in this series.
June 3, 2015
I definitely felt this book started off as a sweet, comfortable read with maybe minor elements of suspense. And in the end it turned into something a lot, a lot darker. Not for me at all.
Not to mention it does something I hate,
Anyway, not for me *AT ALL* and
Not to mention it does something I hate,
Anyway, not for me *AT ALL* and
April 14, 2018
Love At First Sight!
Shane and Lacie hit it off right from the beginning however little do they know that there is someone determined to have Lacie for his own. This is such a sweet romance. Shane and Lacie are a sweet couple and I loved the way the author brought them together and built their relationship. There is some suspense as well as romance involved as well. Aiden Snow once again does an amazing job with the narration.
Shane and Lacie hit it off right from the beginning however little do they know that there is someone determined to have Lacie for his own. This is such a sweet romance. Shane and Lacie are a sweet couple and I loved the way the author brought them together and built their relationship. There is some suspense as well as romance involved as well. Aiden Snow once again does an amazing job with the narration.
August 15, 2020
The ending was so rushed and disappointing. I don’t know what was worse, the abuse heroine went through, unsatisfying faith of her abuser, unnecessary plot line of Brian’s rescue or the stupidest epilogue I have read which gives avay nothing but how cute the kids are (and not even the main character’s kids). I know this author can do better. Hell, she already did it couple of times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2015
Best since book one
I enjoyed the 1st book. The second one was not great. By the third, I gave up. But, a friend said this book was great and I'm glad I gave it a try. It was worth the time!
I enjoyed the 1st book. The second one was not great. By the third, I gave up. But, a friend said this book was great and I'm glad I gave it a try. It was worth the time!
January 3, 2020
Let me love you Shane :)
October 16, 2022
I liked Shane and Lacie's romance. It was one of my favorites out of all the previous Callaghan brothers books I have read. It was sweet, romantic and you could feel the chemistry.
Craig was immediately creepy. Why Lacie refused to acknowledge that fact was beyond me. Based one what he did in the parking lot outside their building should have been enough for her. She never fully shut that ish down. I had a problem with both her thought process and her lack of action regarding Craig.
I knew right away who was responsible for her brother. The villian, the culprit, or whomever bass obvious from the start.
I admit that there was a fair amount of suspense from the school parking lot until almost the end of the book. The references to what happened to Lacie were vague until they weren't. A warning in the description might be helpful. I honestly did not expect that to play out that way.
Considering everything Lacie endured, I felt cheated by the aftermath. Also, I was very surprised that Lacie and Shane had NO real conversations about anything. How do you go through that kind of trauma and there is no discussion about what happened? Then you do the whole major surprise thing along with the grand gesture and you still don't discuss anything. It's like "Ok, this is over now. Let's get to the HEA."
I guess there were discussions in the background that the reader was not privy to read. I know what happened, but I would have enjoyed seeing how Shane or Brian would have reacted to a detailed conversation. Did anyone know Craig's secrets? Were his secrets shared? I was feeling like there were holes that needed to be filled in for readers.
I listened to the audiobook and Aiden Snow did an excellent job as usual. I also borrowed the book via KU to read through because I thought I might have missed some of the answers to my questions, but, I didn't.
This book did start out strong. By the time it ended, it became a 3.5 star read for me.
Craig was immediately creepy. Why Lacie refused to acknowledge that fact was beyond me. Based one what he did in the parking lot outside their building should have been enough for her. She never fully shut that ish down. I had a problem with both her thought process and her lack of action regarding Craig.
I knew right away who was responsible for her brother. The villian, the culprit, or whomever bass obvious from the start.
I admit that there was a fair amount of suspense from the school parking lot until almost the end of the book. The references to what happened to Lacie were vague until they weren't. A warning in the description might be helpful. I honestly did not expect that to play out that way.
Considering everything Lacie endured, I felt cheated by the aftermath. Also, I was very surprised that Lacie and Shane had NO real conversations about anything. How do you go through that kind of trauma and there is no discussion about what happened? Then you do the whole major surprise thing along with the grand gesture and you still don't discuss anything. It's like "Ok, this is over now. Let's get to the HEA."
I guess there were discussions in the background that the reader was not privy to read. I know what happened, but I would have enjoyed seeing how Shane or Brian would have reacted to a detailed conversation. Did anyone know Craig's secrets? Were his secrets shared? I was feeling like there were holes that needed to be filled in for readers.
I listened to the audiobook and Aiden Snow did an excellent job as usual. I also borrowed the book via KU to read through because I thought I might have missed some of the answers to my questions, but, I didn't.
This book did start out strong. By the time it ended, it became a 3.5 star read for me.
December 27, 2022
ZERO STARS!!!! Trigger Warning: Sexual assualt
*Please read this review knowing that before reading this book, I had already decided not to read anymore Abbie Zanders because I just don't enjoy her stories or writing. I had forgot I guess, and read this one. I finished it because I'm really trying hard to not DNF anymore books this year - but I would have DNF'd this within the first 30 pages (and now feel I should have and am thus retracting my DNF rule.)
This book follows Lacie, a kindergarten teacher who lives across the hall from a man who is very obsessed with her. Shane is the brother this story is about - and he helps Lacie with that situation. That is all I can say about plot for this book. It was insta-love if you like those types of stories. I don't. There was very little character building from either character, the story was obvious and straight forward with no real suspense or mystery, and there is next to no detail about ...most everything. The conflict was wrapped up in a boring bow dripping in disappointment. Also - I HATED that we read from the villian's POV. WHY?! Why would any author every give the reader the villain's inner monologue as he abuses/assaults her.....were we supposed to sympathize with him? Why try to get us to see it from his point of view - WTF?! This made me angry, and I can't forgive the author for this - so good gosh please let me remember not to read anything else by this author.
*Please read this review knowing that before reading this book, I had already decided not to read anymore Abbie Zanders because I just don't enjoy her stories or writing. I had forgot I guess, and read this one. I finished it because I'm really trying hard to not DNF anymore books this year - but I would have DNF'd this within the first 30 pages (and now feel I should have and am thus retracting my DNF rule.)
This book follows Lacie, a kindergarten teacher who lives across the hall from a man who is very obsessed with her. Shane is the brother this story is about - and he helps Lacie with that situation. That is all I can say about plot for this book. It was insta-love if you like those types of stories. I don't. There was very little character building from either character, the story was obvious and straight forward with no real suspense or mystery, and there is next to no detail about ...most everything. The conflict was wrapped up in a boring bow dripping in disappointment. Also - I HATED that we read from the villian's POV. WHY?! Why would any author every give the reader the villain's inner monologue as he abuses/assaults her.....were we supposed to sympathize with him? Why try to get us to see it from his point of view - WTF?! This made me angry, and I can't forgive the author for this - so good gosh please let me remember not to read anything else by this author.
October 24, 2017
>Book review – Beyond Affection
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the sixth in the Callaghan Brothers series and ends in an HEA. Shane meets kindergarten teacher, Lacie and realizes they are soul mates. He immediately sees a threat to Lacie in the form of her neighbor. The consequences of ignoring her stalker or that there was even a problem had life changing consequences. Nothing was really described except as fragments of a bad dream, but sexual abuse occurs and I was glad the author didn't let Lacie survive that horror without some lasting effects.
>The way Shane tries to "court" Lacie was so old fashioned and cute. Shane's alpha side really comes out as he fights to save Lacie. As usual, all of the brothers band together to save the soul mate of one of their own.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this story 5 stars.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the sixth in the Callaghan Brothers series and ends in an HEA. Shane meets kindergarten teacher, Lacie and realizes they are soul mates. He immediately sees a threat to Lacie in the form of her neighbor. The consequences of ignoring her stalker or that there was even a problem had life changing consequences. Nothing was really described except as fragments of a bad dream, but sexual abuse occurs and I was glad the author didn't let Lacie survive that horror without some lasting effects.
>The way Shane tries to "court" Lacie was so old fashioned and cute. Shane's alpha side really comes out as he fights to save Lacie. As usual, all of the brothers band together to save the soul mate of one of their own.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this story 5 stars.
April 17, 2024
Beyond Affection
Wow! Another FANTASTIC story by Abbie! This story is about Shane and Lacie. Their first meeting was quite amusing. As the saying goes - when you know, you know. in Shane's case, meeting Lacie during one of his lectures was interesting indeed. She fell asleep in his class. As they say, the rest is history. It's unfortunate that Lacie had herself a stalker who happened to be an old friend of her brother. As the story progresses, we find Lacie in denial while everyone else knew that friend so really obsessed with her that he actually kidnapped her. When the Callaghan brothers finally found her, it was definitely touch and go there for a while. That will definitely bring a tear to your eyes. Glad he was taken care of and Lacie was on the mend. So happy that these two finally got their happy ending! FANTASTIC job Abbie! I would recommend this book!
Wow! Another FANTASTIC story by Abbie! This story is about Shane and Lacie. Their first meeting was quite amusing. As the saying goes - when you know, you know. in Shane's case, meeting Lacie during one of his lectures was interesting indeed. She fell asleep in his class. As they say, the rest is history. It's unfortunate that Lacie had herself a stalker who happened to be an old friend of her brother. As the story progresses, we find Lacie in denial while everyone else knew that friend so really obsessed with her that he actually kidnapped her. When the Callaghan brothers finally found her, it was definitely touch and go there for a while. That will definitely bring a tear to your eyes. Glad he was taken care of and Lacie was on the mend. So happy that these two finally got their happy ending! FANTASTIC job Abbie! I would recommend this book!
January 3, 2018
Lacie is being stalked by a life-long friend (but she doesn't realize it) when she meets Shane and sparks fly. Together Lacie and Shane are a fantastic couple, equally drawn to each other. I loved this book. The characters are true to real life, the writing is fabulous and the story is engaging from the first page. Abbie Zanders handles a difficult topic with a deft hand. Yes there are parts that are hard to read, but good overcomes evil. I would definitely recommend this book and the entire series to this point to any of my friends.
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