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Winter Harbor Heroes #1
The Bastard Heir
I'm the heir to a secret family fortune, facing down brothers I hate, and trying to get back the one that got away ...
Eight years ago, she broke me.
Her secrets drove a wedge between me and my brother that can never be fixed.
Now, with my life in shambles, I’m forced by the ludicrous demands of my dead father to face the one woman I ever loved, and the brother I can not stand.
I need the money. But a year is a long sentence to serve in a house with people I hate, and in a town that hates me.
A year is a long time to dodge Harlow Jackson and the eyes and smile that made me fall harder than I’ve ever fallen before.
But it only takes days to show me that what happened eight years ago was a mistake. Now I need every last second of the year ahead to convince her to take a second chance on us.
This is the first book of the Winter Harbor series which features a quirky small town, secrets galore, and three estranged brothers who find the key to healing comes from the women who steal their hearts.
Eight years ago, she broke me.
Her secrets drove a wedge between me and my brother that can never be fixed.
Now, with my life in shambles, I’m forced by the ludicrous demands of my dead father to face the one woman I ever loved, and the brother I can not stand.
I need the money. But a year is a long sentence to serve in a house with people I hate, and in a town that hates me.
A year is a long time to dodge Harlow Jackson and the eyes and smile that made me fall harder than I’ve ever fallen before.
But it only takes days to show me that what happened eight years ago was a mistake. Now I need every last second of the year ahead to convince her to take a second chance on us.
This is the first book of the Winter Harbor series which features a quirky small town, secrets galore, and three estranged brothers who find the key to healing comes from the women who steal their hearts.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2022
312 people are currently reading
1365 people want to read
About the author
Whitley Cox
172 books982 followersA Canadian West Coast baby born and raised, Whitley is married to her high school sweetheart and together they have two beautiful daughters and a fluffy dog. She spends her days making food that gets thrown on the floor, vacuuming Cheerios out from under the couch and making sure that the dog food doesn't end up in the air conditioner. But when the kids are at school and it's not quite wine o'clock, Whitley sits down, avoids the pile of laundry on the couch, and writes.
A lover of all things decadent; wine, cheese, chocolate and spicy erotic romance, Whitley brings the humorous side of sex, the ridiculous side of relationships and the suspense of everyday life into her stories. With single dads, firefighters, Navy SEALs, mommy wars, body issues, threesomes, bondage and role-playing, Whitley’s books have all the funny and fabulously filthy words you could hope for.
For all foreign translation rights and audiobook rights inquiries please contact literary agent Ena Burnette with SBR Media: ena@sbrmedia.com
A lover of all things decadent; wine, cheese, chocolate and spicy erotic romance, Whitley brings the humorous side of sex, the ridiculous side of relationships and the suspense of everyday life into her stories. With single dads, firefighters, Navy SEALs, mommy wars, body issues, threesomes, bondage and role-playing, Whitley’s books have all the funny and fabulously filthy words you could hope for.
For all foreign translation rights and audiobook rights inquiries please contact literary agent Ena Burnette with SBR Media: ena@sbrmedia.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
April 2, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: Second Chance
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Callum Winter's life is a mess. He is being forced to go to a town he's never been to, by a dead father he's never had a relationship with, to live with the brother he cut off, all while dealing with his first love, Harlow, who drove the stake between them. The reasons for being forced to Winter Harbor are shrouded in mystery - especially since the whole town seems to hate their name, but the three Winter brothers plan on living together for a year - sticking it out together to get their inheritance. Eventually Callum and Harlow decide to patch it up, but it remains uncertain their relationship will weather another unravelling of secrets.
The Bastard Heir is an angsty roller coaster of a ride complete with a dash of romantic suspense. I absolutely loved Harlow! I loved how strong she is, her perseverance in the face of difficulty, and willingness to take the difficult road when she knows that's what's best for her. Harlow and Callum had tons of chemistry and super hot smexy times, but I did have a bit of hard time with him. I'm not sure if it was that Harlow was just so strong it made Callum look a little wishy washy or what, or it just seemed amplified that Harlow was always the one I sympathized with when it came to the disagreements between them. Overall, it was a good start to the series and I'm super excited to be reading the next brother's story!
The Bastard Heir is the first book in the Winter Harbor series by Ember Leigh and Whitley Cox and can be read as a stand alone. The story is told in first person, from dual perspective.
Trope: Second Chance
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Callum Winter's life is a mess. He is being forced to go to a town he's never been to, by a dead father he's never had a relationship with, to live with the brother he cut off, all while dealing with his first love, Harlow, who drove the stake between them. The reasons for being forced to Winter Harbor are shrouded in mystery - especially since the whole town seems to hate their name, but the three Winter brothers plan on living together for a year - sticking it out together to get their inheritance. Eventually Callum and Harlow decide to patch it up, but it remains uncertain their relationship will weather another unravelling of secrets.
The Bastard Heir is an angsty roller coaster of a ride complete with a dash of romantic suspense. I absolutely loved Harlow! I loved how strong she is, her perseverance in the face of difficulty, and willingness to take the difficult road when she knows that's what's best for her. Harlow and Callum had tons of chemistry and super hot smexy times, but I did have a bit of hard time with him. I'm not sure if it was that Harlow was just so strong it made Callum look a little wishy washy or what, or it just seemed amplified that Harlow was always the one I sympathized with when it came to the disagreements between them. Overall, it was a good start to the series and I'm super excited to be reading the next brother's story!
The Bastard Heir is the first book in the Winter Harbor series by Ember Leigh and Whitley Cox and can be read as a stand alone. The story is told in first person, from dual perspective.
April 5, 2022
Winter Harbor has just received a few more residents and believe me they do not want to be there.
Callum, Colton and Carson have returned to their estranged father's hometown for the reading of his will. What they didn't expect is to be given stipulations and abide by his wishes to receive their inheritance.
Callum is the oldest of the boys and after their mother passed away each son was sent to boarding school, they never knew one another and the bonds between father and sons never developed. Now these three men must learn to live together and really get to know one another. What happens when the group managing the estate has put but the only woman that got away from Callum in charge?
Harlow has worked hard she has become a successful attorney and is now up for partner. She just needs to prove that she can handle the very large estate of one of the towns late investors. He was secretive, difficult and not liked but his estranged sons have arrived, and she must be all business. She must mentally prepare herself for the face to face that is about to take place between the man that broke her heart and the woman that she has become.
The electricity is still palpable between Harlow and Callum, but they are surrounded by secrets, heartache and lies. Is it possible to get that second chance even when the odds and towns people are all against them??
This couple is feisty, have smart sexy banter and are fueled by so many emotions! I am excited to see what is in store for the next brother.
~~Michele McMullen ~~
Callum, Colton and Carson have returned to their estranged father's hometown for the reading of his will. What they didn't expect is to be given stipulations and abide by his wishes to receive their inheritance.
Callum is the oldest of the boys and after their mother passed away each son was sent to boarding school, they never knew one another and the bonds between father and sons never developed. Now these three men must learn to live together and really get to know one another. What happens when the group managing the estate has put but the only woman that got away from Callum in charge?
Harlow has worked hard she has become a successful attorney and is now up for partner. She just needs to prove that she can handle the very large estate of one of the towns late investors. He was secretive, difficult and not liked but his estranged sons have arrived, and she must be all business. She must mentally prepare herself for the face to face that is about to take place between the man that broke her heart and the woman that she has become.
The electricity is still palpable between Harlow and Callum, but they are surrounded by secrets, heartache and lies. Is it possible to get that second chance even when the odds and towns people are all against them??
This couple is feisty, have smart sexy banter and are fueled by so many emotions! I am excited to see what is in store for the next brother.
~~Michele McMullen ~~
April 4, 2022
The first book in this new series had everything, a wonderful 2nd chance romance, a brilliant mystery element, 3 waring siblings each with their own troubled past, all set around the wonderful town of Winter Harbor.
I am a huge fan of Whitley Cox, so when I heard that she had teamed up with Ember Leigh to write a new small-town series, I knew I was not going to be disappointed. The first book in any good new series does need to focus on the couple whose story is being told, but for me, a great first book will also give us some of the co-stars and the characters that are to come, and these two authors have achieved this perfectly.
Harlow and the eldest Winter brother, Callum have a history, both meet and fell in love in college, but with one swift blow from Carson, Callum's middle brother, their relationship came to an end. Now eight years on and fate has brought all three sons, Colton being the youngest, to a town named after their family, but where nobody is welcoming them with open arms, the history surrounding this is something that they know nothing about but more importantly, brings Callum to Harlow's hometown where she now lives., Whitley Cox and Ember Leigh have exceptionally well brought to life the still deeply rooted connection between Harlow and Callum, which you can feel flow through the pages, the hurt still runs as deep, but the invisible thread that once bound them together is once again wrapping itself around their hearts, add in the mystery as to why the town hates the name 'Winter', which Callum is on a mission to find out why just makes this a really mesmerising read, not only that, these two authors have thrown in some lovely moments, Callum's weakness for saving small wildlife, the growing draw for all brothers to the house they are now living in and the wonderful little gems they uncover, all just adds to the depth of this must-read story.
April 3, 2022
5 star review of The Bastard Heir (Winter Harbor #1) by Whitley Cox & Ember Leigh
I was excited when I heard that Whitley Cox had a new series releasing, although Ember Leigh is a new author to me. If book one is anything to go by, then these authors have a winning series on her hand.
When their father dies, the Winter brothers are forced to stay in Winter Harbor for a year in order to claim their inheritance. Even more challenging is that the estate attorney is Harlow Jackson, the woman who broke Callum’s heart.
I adore stories set in small towns and Whitley Cox has a way of writing about small towns that I found myself transported to Winter Harbor. Now because of the will, Callum and Harlow are forced back into one anothers’ life. When secrets are revealed and walls start to crumble, could this be the second chance that Callum didn’t even know he wanted with Liz?
Can Callum mend his relationship with not only Liz but also his estranged brothers? Can they win over the people of Winter Harbor who appear to hate them? There are a number of twists, turns and secrets which added to my enjoyment of this story.
I have no idea where one author stopped and the other took over or who wrote what, their story telling was seamless. I am looking forward to the next book in the series and learning more of the family’s secrets.
I was excited when I heard that Whitley Cox had a new series releasing, although Ember Leigh is a new author to me. If book one is anything to go by, then these authors have a winning series on her hand.
When their father dies, the Winter brothers are forced to stay in Winter Harbor for a year in order to claim their inheritance. Even more challenging is that the estate attorney is Harlow Jackson, the woman who broke Callum’s heart.
I adore stories set in small towns and Whitley Cox has a way of writing about small towns that I found myself transported to Winter Harbor. Now because of the will, Callum and Harlow are forced back into one anothers’ life. When secrets are revealed and walls start to crumble, could this be the second chance that Callum didn’t even know he wanted with Liz?
Can Callum mend his relationship with not only Liz but also his estranged brothers? Can they win over the people of Winter Harbor who appear to hate them? There are a number of twists, turns and secrets which added to my enjoyment of this story.
I have no idea where one author stopped and the other took over or who wrote what, their story telling was seamless. I am looking forward to the next book in the series and learning more of the family’s secrets.
April 8, 2022
This is going to be an amazing series in this reader's humble opinion. The series is about 3 estranged brothers who are forced to spend a year together living if they wish to inherit their father’s Billions. The authors gave us a well written wonderful story about Callum Winters and Harlow (his ex) but we learn about the other two Winters brothers and the history of why the residents of the small town of Winter Harbor seem to hate them.
Callum is down on his luck having just lost his job and his home. Then he gets word his father has died and he has to return to the small town on Winter Harbor and come face to face with his two brothers, one of which he can’t stand to be in the same room with, and the woman who still haunts his dreams. The one he let get away. He comes across as an arrogant man but is he really? After all, he has a weakness for saving small animals and solving mysteries. As for Harlow, she has taken hit after hit but has managed to make something of her life. She is an attorney with hopes of making a partner in the firm. Too bad it’s the Winters’ Brothers case that just might make or break her promotions (as well as her heart - again).
Outstanding read and I can’t wait for book 2 in the series. I highly recommend grabbing it up and getting in on the ground floor of the Winter Harbor series.
2 Thumbs up and 5 Stars
Callum is down on his luck having just lost his job and his home. Then he gets word his father has died and he has to return to the small town on Winter Harbor and come face to face with his two brothers, one of which he can’t stand to be in the same room with, and the woman who still haunts his dreams. The one he let get away. He comes across as an arrogant man but is he really? After all, he has a weakness for saving small animals and solving mysteries. As for Harlow, she has taken hit after hit but has managed to make something of her life. She is an attorney with hopes of making a partner in the firm. Too bad it’s the Winters’ Brothers case that just might make or break her promotions (as well as her heart - again).
Outstanding read and I can’t wait for book 2 in the series. I highly recommend grabbing it up and getting in on the ground floor of the Winter Harbor series.
2 Thumbs up and 5 Stars
April 2, 2022
This second chance romance draws you in with the angst, anticipation, chemistry and anger that simmers between the brothers. This first book has you falling in love with them and invested for the entirety of this new series. As secrets start to unravel and more are brought to the surface, the journey of Harlow and Callum will have you on the edge of your seat. Harlow has endured a lot in the last eight years, however the one thing that hasn’t changed is the love she feels for the man who broke her heart. Callum is angry and confused but he isn’t going to let his second chance with Harlow slip through his fingers. This story is emotional, passionate and has plenty of banter. A story of healing old wounds and realizing that family is important. These two authors compliment each other’s writing style to bring us an amazing and enchanting story.
April 4, 2022
The Bastard Heir is the first book in the new series from Whitley Cox and Ember Leigh. It’s the first book by Ember’s I’ve read and Wow was it great! I loved Callum and Harlow’s story! With all the drama, intrigue, mystery, love and heartbreak you get an amazing story! There are challenges on the way to their new relationship, but they will be worth it in the long run. I loved this story and I’m looking forward to reading The Asshole Heir. The next book in the Winter Harbor series. It can’t get here fast enough!
April 3, 2022
WOWZA! Daddy dies and now the estranged Winter brothers have to live together for a full year to inherit. Talk about a manipulation from the grave! Besides dealing with individual struggles and hatred for one another leads lots of drama and suspense and lots secrets revealed! All in a very small town where all eyes are on the brothers in their dilapidated family home. Including ones ex whose been forced take the probate case. Great start new series! *I was given a copy and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
April 4, 2022
Callum’s life is falling apart and when he thinks it can’t get any worse his estranged father dies and leave the most unorthodox stipulation in a will that one has ever heard. Now he has to live with Brothers he hasn’t spoken to in years and his lawyer, his ex girlfriend - the one that got away!
She’s rocketing to the top of her career and her partner promotion depends on her handling his case. On top of overcoming the past they must figure out what happened in Winter Harbour so many years ago under the fists of their grandfather and father. The twists and turns are fantastic and the sex! I cannot wait for more from Ember and Whitley! What a team!
She’s rocketing to the top of her career and her partner promotion depends on her handling his case. On top of overcoming the past they must figure out what happened in Winter Harbour so many years ago under the fists of their grandfather and father. The twists and turns are fantastic and the sex! I cannot wait for more from Ember and Whitley! What a team!
April 5, 2022
Things have been a bit rough for me these couple of days and reading is my only solace.
What's even better is to get a book from one author that I love and guess what?
She's not alone.
Whitley Cox has been in my reading life for a few years and when she told me that she was embarking on a new project I was ecstatic.
She's writing with Ember Leigh and let me just say... Dayum.
These two know how to work together and this book is the proof you need.
The Bastard Heir is their latest release and it's the first book from the A Winter Harbor series.
This book explores the lives of Harlow and Callum.
Just take a good look at the cover... Did you? Dayum, that V...
Callum saw his life-changing when his mom died.
After that, he along with his brothers, we're sent to a boarding school out of the country.
That made the lose the bond they had.
Now, years passed, his father dies and, after reading his father's will, he sees himself living in the same mansion with his brothers... Can he stay there for one year?
And with everyone in town hating them, it's not easy.
And to top it all, the estate attorney given the case, just happened to be the true love he left behind. And...
Harlow is a lawyer, an estate attorney to be precise, that works hard and just wants to become a partner at the firm she works for.
She's feisty, a cancer survivor, and a very determined woman.
When she's given a new case...
Oh my God... What a book.
I'm so in love with it that I can't find the proper words.
Amazing plot, well written, super engaging, and intense.
Each chapter was even more addictive than the latest and I couldn't stop reading it, nor did I want to, if I'm being honest.
The characters worked perfectly with each other and you can feel the love they share.
Of course that not everything was a bed of roses and we have to look out for the thorns.
Their struggles were so real, and the feelings they evoked were brutal.
Sometimes you have to lose what we have to truly appreciate it.
That struggles will make us stronger and stronger.
Of course that we also have some hot stuff into the mix.
Oh boy... Hot hot hot.
This book makes us realize that we need to fight for our family as well as our true love.
Don't forget the bigger picture.
And now I'm left wanting more because I'm super curious to see what happens with the other two brothers.
It's going to be a long wait...
Great book Whitley and Ember. Please don't take too long to give me the next one. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
What's even better is to get a book from one author that I love and guess what?
She's not alone.
Whitley Cox has been in my reading life for a few years and when she told me that she was embarking on a new project I was ecstatic.
She's writing with Ember Leigh and let me just say... Dayum.
These two know how to work together and this book is the proof you need.
The Bastard Heir is their latest release and it's the first book from the A Winter Harbor series.
This book explores the lives of Harlow and Callum.
Just take a good look at the cover... Did you? Dayum, that V...
Callum saw his life-changing when his mom died.
After that, he along with his brothers, we're sent to a boarding school out of the country.
That made the lose the bond they had.
Now, years passed, his father dies and, after reading his father's will, he sees himself living in the same mansion with his brothers... Can he stay there for one year?
And with everyone in town hating them, it's not easy.
And to top it all, the estate attorney given the case, just happened to be the true love he left behind. And...
Harlow is a lawyer, an estate attorney to be precise, that works hard and just wants to become a partner at the firm she works for.
She's feisty, a cancer survivor, and a very determined woman.
When she's given a new case...
Oh my God... What a book.
I'm so in love with it that I can't find the proper words.
Amazing plot, well written, super engaging, and intense.
Each chapter was even more addictive than the latest and I couldn't stop reading it, nor did I want to, if I'm being honest.
The characters worked perfectly with each other and you can feel the love they share.
Of course that not everything was a bed of roses and we have to look out for the thorns.
Their struggles were so real, and the feelings they evoked were brutal.
Sometimes you have to lose what we have to truly appreciate it.
That struggles will make us stronger and stronger.
Of course that we also have some hot stuff into the mix.
Oh boy... Hot hot hot.
This book makes us realize that we need to fight for our family as well as our true love.
Don't forget the bigger picture.
And now I'm left wanting more because I'm super curious to see what happens with the other two brothers.
It's going to be a long wait...
Great book Whitley and Ember. Please don't take too long to give me the next one. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
April 4, 2022
When the Winter brothers Callum, Carson & Colston land in Winter Harbour they find themselves being held to ransom by their estranged late father who's will states that to gain their inheritance ALL 3 of them have to stay in the family home PERMANENTLY for the next year which none of them are happy about as they don't want to be with each other but it also means uprooting the whole lives. Harlow has been working towards being a partner in the law firm she works but when she is put in charge of an estate case she finds herself thrust back into the past but has no choice if she wants to get the partner position. When she comes face to face with Callum Winters the only man she'd ever loved hurt her 8 years ago she can't deny she still feels for him is made worse by the fact that Carson the brother who was the reason why Callum did what he did is part of the terms of the will. Not only is Callum struggling with Harlow being back in his life but the whole of Winter Harbour hate them because of the hell their father & grandfather reaked on the town they founded. No matter how hard she tries Harlow gives in to her still loving Callum & he admits that he still loves her & wants to make it up to her but they also have to find out the secrets surrounding the reasons why the town feel the way they do. This story is steamy, cute animals being rescued, emotional when Harlow opens up to Callum of the pain that she has gone through whilst apart but just as it seems they are going to get their second chance at a happy ever after a secret Callum has been keeping could she it end before it has got fully started. They were meant to be together but a couple of times I just wanted to give him a shake & tell him to man up.
I can't wait to read Carson's story.
I can't wait to read Carson's story.
April 2, 2022
In a small town, everyone knows everyone's business. But Harlow didn't know that the man that broke her heart was about to inherit part of her hometown. And with the sparks between them still igniting their love for one another, it would be a long year trying to avoid each other in a town like Winter Harbor.
The first book in the Winter Harbor series was a great set up to introduce you to a new world you just want to go visit for a weekend getaway. Between the witty names of the local businesses and the characters that run them, you can't help but fall in love with Winter Harbor.
I especially loved the sizzling chemistry between Harlow and Callum. There was an undeniable attraction from the start that made it easy to fall in step with. The flow of the story itself also had a captivating hook by immersing you into the fictional town. And with secrets surfacing around the two love birds, it made it hard to put the book down.
The Bastard Heir takes you on a second chance love story that will have you wishing you were reading it while enjoying a coffee at The Grind. With swoon worthy smut scenes and a knack for banter, Whitley and Ember embody the term-contemporary romance. This smut loving reader can't wait to get her hands on the next book.
This book was given to me as a gift in exchange for an honest review.
The first book in the Winter Harbor series was a great set up to introduce you to a new world you just want to go visit for a weekend getaway. Between the witty names of the local businesses and the characters that run them, you can't help but fall in love with Winter Harbor.
I especially loved the sizzling chemistry between Harlow and Callum. There was an undeniable attraction from the start that made it easy to fall in step with. The flow of the story itself also had a captivating hook by immersing you into the fictional town. And with secrets surfacing around the two love birds, it made it hard to put the book down.
The Bastard Heir takes you on a second chance love story that will have you wishing you were reading it while enjoying a coffee at The Grind. With swoon worthy smut scenes and a knack for banter, Whitley and Ember embody the term-contemporary romance. This smut loving reader can't wait to get her hands on the next book.
This book was given to me as a gift in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2022
From the moment I read my very first Whitley Cox book I was hooked, so I'll always be excited for all books released. I'm on the newer side of Ember Leigh's world, but I have to say I really love her writing style, and boy do these two mesh seamlessly together. Callum & his brothers are pretty much estranged as none of them actually got to know the others until their father died leaving a will that is unconventional. See, these brothers have to actually stay in the family home together for a whole year to get their inheritance so you already know chaos will follow. It only gets more complicated for Callum when he comes face to face with Harlow, the girl who destroyed his heart so he's not exactly likeable at first. Harlow has to deal with Callum & his brothers in order to make partner at her law firm, but man, it's impossible to keep her heart out of it. There are secrets that don't make friends unravel little by little which makes for a lot of angst & frustration because maybe just maybe nothing is as it seemed for so long, and there's even a kicker of suspense with the town hating the brothers. I'm super excited to read more about these brothers & HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
April 6, 2022
What a great start to the new Winter Harbor series by Whitley Cox and Ember Leigh.
I have read many books by Ms Cox but Ms Leigh is a new author to me so I was excited to see how this writing duo would gel. If this book is anything to go by this will certainly be a hit series.
The Winter brothers find themselves forced to come home to Winter Harbor when their father dies but they certainly didn’t expect to have to stay for a year or walk away from their inheritance. The first book in the series is estate attorney Harlow Jackson and Callum Winter’s second chance at love.
Liz and Callum have a history, in fact she was the only woman who has managed to steal and break his heart so what happens when they find themselves back in the same town…. It isn’t only fences with Liz that need mending because Callum also needs to build bridges with his estranged brothers.
If you love small town romances this book should certainly be on your radar, it’s a captivating journey with plenty of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It has wonderful characters that you can’t help falling for and it left me excited for what’s to come next from the brothers who all seem to be keeping secrets. You always know a good writing partnership when you have no idea who wrote what and that’s exactly what you get with this entertaining read.
I have read many books by Ms Cox but Ms Leigh is a new author to me so I was excited to see how this writing duo would gel. If this book is anything to go by this will certainly be a hit series.
The Winter brothers find themselves forced to come home to Winter Harbor when their father dies but they certainly didn’t expect to have to stay for a year or walk away from their inheritance. The first book in the series is estate attorney Harlow Jackson and Callum Winter’s second chance at love.
Liz and Callum have a history, in fact she was the only woman who has managed to steal and break his heart so what happens when they find themselves back in the same town…. It isn’t only fences with Liz that need mending because Callum also needs to build bridges with his estranged brothers.
If you love small town romances this book should certainly be on your radar, it’s a captivating journey with plenty of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It has wonderful characters that you can’t help falling for and it left me excited for what’s to come next from the brothers who all seem to be keeping secrets. You always know a good writing partnership when you have no idea who wrote what and that’s exactly what you get with this entertaining read.
April 6, 2022
3.5/5*
Original review
This book was provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Whitley Cox & Ember Leigh!
The Bastard Heir is the first book in the Winter Harbor series and tells the story of Harlow and Callum.
I’m a big fan of the Second Chance Romance trope, so when I read the synopsis, I knew that this book was going to be something for me! I’ve never read a book by Whitley Cox, but I’ve read and enjoyed a lot of Ember Leigh’s books. So I didn’t really know what to expect, but I’m happy to say that I enjoyed reading The Bastard Heir. This book isn’t just a romance story, it’s also about a broken family that gets a second chance.
The Bastard Heir is about Harlow and Callum who had a relationship a few years ago. I really like Harlow as a character because she knows what she wants and she goes for it. Callum, on the other hand, doesn’t really know what he wants, lol. I’m happy that his brothers gave him some clarity and that he made the right choices because Harlow and Callum are cute together!
Although I enjoyed reading The Bastard Heir, for some reason it was a bit slow for me. It felt like it took a while to finish this book, but I don’t really know why. The story itself is beautiful and the characters are interesting, but it’s just felt a bit slow/harder to read for me. But I’m enjoyed The Bastard Heir and I’m looking forward to the next book in the Winter Harbor series!
Original review
This book was provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Whitley Cox & Ember Leigh!
The Bastard Heir is the first book in the Winter Harbor series and tells the story of Harlow and Callum.
I’m a big fan of the Second Chance Romance trope, so when I read the synopsis, I knew that this book was going to be something for me! I’ve never read a book by Whitley Cox, but I’ve read and enjoyed a lot of Ember Leigh’s books. So I didn’t really know what to expect, but I’m happy to say that I enjoyed reading The Bastard Heir. This book isn’t just a romance story, it’s also about a broken family that gets a second chance.
The Bastard Heir is about Harlow and Callum who had a relationship a few years ago. I really like Harlow as a character because she knows what she wants and she goes for it. Callum, on the other hand, doesn’t really know what he wants, lol. I’m happy that his brothers gave him some clarity and that he made the right choices because Harlow and Callum are cute together!
Although I enjoyed reading The Bastard Heir, for some reason it was a bit slow for me. It felt like it took a while to finish this book, but I don’t really know why. The story itself is beautiful and the characters are interesting, but it’s just felt a bit slow/harder to read for me. But I’m enjoyed The Bastard Heir and I’m looking forward to the next book in the Winter Harbor series!
April 6, 2022
A great collaboration of two fantastic authors! I really enjoyed the mystery that swirled around the three brothers as to why the town hates their now-deceased father and grandfather so much that the entire population is not willing to even give the men the benefit of the doubt and the fact that they had been estranged from their father they're entire lives. While the brothers are busy trying to make heads and tails of the stipulations in their father's will, Callum and Harlow reconnect after not seeing each other in eight years due to a bad breakup and there is plenty of hurt and recrimination that needs to be overcome before they can even begin to consider a HEA together. Will the town ever accept the brothers and what can possibly be behind the Hobbit door that they can't get open? I can't wait for Carson's book to maybe get some more answers. Or will there be more questions as the brothers learn more about their lineage and the effects it had on the town they now call home?
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
April 10, 2022
After the death of the father he didn’t really know he finds himself back in Winter Harbour where Callum and his two brothers must stay for a year in order to receive their inheritance. If that isn’t difficult enough, he finds out that the person handling the settlement of the estate is the woman he was in love with years earlier until their relationship didn’t end well.
The years since Harlow and Callum were together have been challenging but she is a much stronger personally and is now a successful lawyer. She wants to keep their relationship strictly professional however the chemistry and connection between them is stronger than ever but is it enough to overcome their pasts?
This is a wonderful start to a new series as the captivating characters of Callum and Harlow draw you in as they must resolve the secrets and misunderstandings that stand between them so that they can have the happiness they both deserve.
The years since Harlow and Callum were together have been challenging but she is a much stronger personally and is now a successful lawyer. She wants to keep their relationship strictly professional however the chemistry and connection between them is stronger than ever but is it enough to overcome their pasts?
This is a wonderful start to a new series as the captivating characters of Callum and Harlow draw you in as they must resolve the secrets and misunderstandings that stand between them so that they can have the happiness they both deserve.
April 2, 2022
Harlow is on track for partner at her law firm, but the one case that will get her there is one she doesn't want as it means seeing the Winter Brothers again and Callum the eldest broke her heart eight years ago. Callum never expected to see Harlow again or his two brothers really, but his Dad who recently passed has forced his, Carson and Colton's hands to now only only see each other but spend a year together as well as deal with how things went down with Harlow 8 years ago. I loved how this wasn't just a second chance romance, but also a second chance for three brothers to actually become brother especially as they appear to know nothing of each other due to the distance they kept, you also get the mystery of why all of Winter Harbor literally hates the Winter family as well as mysteries and surprises the mansion has hidden within. I can not wait for the next book to get to know the Winter brothers more and find out what's next for them all not only with their love life but with connecting with the townsfolk!
April 2, 2022
Callum Winter and his brothers Colton and Carson return to Winter Harbour after their father's death.
Harlow Jackson, estate lawyer and Callum's ex girlfriend is the one beintg forced to handle this estate for a promotion. The Winters boys are angry, hated by everybody in town and have to live in the small town for a year to inherit the family fortune. Can they survive one year in such closeness? Can Harlow and Callum rekindle what they lost eight years ago? Who is the Winter boys mother? What did their father and grandfather do, for the town to hate the family? A story of mysteries, rekindled love, brothers coming together and an angry mob waiting for them to fail the town. I can't wait to read Colton and Carson's stories and I volunteered to review this one.
Harlow Jackson, estate lawyer and Callum's ex girlfriend is the one beintg forced to handle this estate for a promotion. The Winters boys are angry, hated by everybody in town and have to live in the small town for a year to inherit the family fortune. Can they survive one year in such closeness? Can Harlow and Callum rekindle what they lost eight years ago? Who is the Winter boys mother? What did their father and grandfather do, for the town to hate the family? A story of mysteries, rekindled love, brothers coming together and an angry mob waiting for them to fail the town. I can't wait to read Colton and Carson's stories and I volunteered to review this one.
April 4, 2022
I love second chance romances and this has everything I wanted and more. The Winters boys are having a difficult time as of late. Their late father put an interesting clause in his will for the boys to fulfill before inheriting their millions. They can't believe what has to be accomplished. Callum Winters has the most difficult choices. He is the oldest and has no relationship with his brothers but wants one. And he runs into the one that got away. Harlow can't believe her luck. She is handed a case at the last minute that could make her dreams come true. Although when she sees who is involved, she has second and third thougts. Of all the small towns, he had to walk into hers.
I loved this story and where it took me. There are secret passage ways in the house they inherit that brings the brothers closer together. And there is the mystery of what their grandfather and father did to this town. Then there is the history between Callum and Harlow that can be devastating. Their relationship is electric and I loved the emotions that it evoked.
I loved this story and where it took me. There are secret passage ways in the house they inherit that brings the brothers closer together. And there is the mystery of what their grandfather and father did to this town. Then there is the history between Callum and Harlow that can be devastating. Their relationship is electric and I loved the emotions that it evoked.
April 4, 2022
So the family has a bad reputation in town, hated by most everyone. But the head of the family left special instructions for the Winter boys and one by one they return to a past and find Redemption. Well one does anyway, for now.
Harlow was left brokenhearted and without justification. Callum left Harlow without the facts and his heart was always needing.
A year, together
But a few days in and Callum isn't sure a year will be enough time to repair the damage he unknowingly caused. Great start to a new series
Harlow was left brokenhearted and without justification. Callum left Harlow without the facts and his heart was always needing.
A year, together
But a few days in and Callum isn't sure a year will be enough time to repair the damage he unknowingly caused. Great start to a new series
March 27, 2022
This is the first of a series involving the Winters brothers: Callum-age 29, Carson-age 27, and Colton-age 25. These guys' mom died of breast cancer and their father sent them off to boarding school in Switzerland while they were preschoolers. They have grown up estranged from their father and each other. They don't even know their mother's maiden name. Imagine their surprise when they are called after their father's funeral to the reading of the will at an Oregon coastal town called Winter Harbor that was founded by their ancestors and a good half of it is held in the estate. Even more distressing, their father has set terms that the three must live together for a year in a mansion built in the mid-nineteenth century before claiming any of the millions in the estate. On top of that, everybody in the town hates them and they don't know why. Furthermore, the estate lawyer is the love of Callum's life with whom he parted right before college graduation when Carson told him he had hooked up with her several times his freshman year. He has resentfully hated his brother ever since. Only the fact that none of the three have anything else meaningful in their lives keeps them there to learn the secrets about the ancient home, the offputting townsfolk, each other's misunderstandings, and where lawyer Harlow fits in! This story has mystery and feels galore and is a must-read.
March 31, 2022
I received this book in exchange for a review :
I have no words for this first book in the first ever series by 2 amazing authors! Soooo glad they FINALLY teamed up!
This story has all the feels of an old love that never went away, but alos the hurt never went away in the 7 years Harlow and Callum spent apart. Both are at different points in their life, not a good point on Callum's end but it did bring them to Winter Harbor.
I would absolutely love to go to this town to see the hot spring and the manor in person. The words just made you feel like you were actually in Winter Harbor watching everything unfold.
Beautifully written story of first love, 2nd chances, New growth and growing together. Cannot wait for Carson story!!
I have no words for this first book in the first ever series by 2 amazing authors! Soooo glad they FINALLY teamed up!
This story has all the feels of an old love that never went away, but alos the hurt never went away in the 7 years Harlow and Callum spent apart. Both are at different points in their life, not a good point on Callum's end but it did bring them to Winter Harbor.
I would absolutely love to go to this town to see the hot spring and the manor in person. The words just made you feel like you were actually in Winter Harbor watching everything unfold.
Beautifully written story of first love, 2nd chances, New growth and growing together. Cannot wait for Carson story!!
April 1, 2022
I really enjoyed reading Callum and Harlow’s story. These two loved each other once and when your idiot brother decides to ruin your life he’s all in, but it’s what you choose to believe that has you making bad decisions only to find yourself eight years later face to face with the love of your life. Callum let Carson come between him and Harlow once and that will never happen again. Harlow had no idea the boy she loved was a Winter, the same name her small town is named after, the town that happens to hate any and all Winters. This town is full of secrets and the Winter brothers are smack in the middle of it. Life has been messy but will true love conquer all? So many questions, a definite must read.
April 5, 2022
Callum, Carson and Colton Winters have arrived in Winter Harbor for their inheritance but it’s not going to be as easy as they hoped. Harlow Callum’s ex happens to be the attorney handling the estate. It’s a fantastic opportunity for the two of them to try again. They’ve both grown up so it should work right?! Well the brothers have their work cut out for them. First find out why the town hates them. This is is a fantastic book about second chances not just Callum and Harlow but the three brothers it’s their second chance of being a family.
April 5, 2022
I'm so excited for Whitley Cox and Ember Leigh's new series. And it's also the first time I read Ember Leigh. I definitely loved Callum and Harlow's story. I am especially more excited to get to know the secrets of Winter Harbour and uncover what had happened to the town after the Winter brothers' dad left town that made the townies hate their family. Also excited to see the brothers mend their estranged relationship. And we already get the start of that in this book. I also loved Callum and Harlow's second chance. I loved that they still loved each other so much and want to have their second chance. But it wasn't easy because their dreams are different. I can't wait for Carson's story next!
April 11, 2022
I was really excited to start this new series. The Winter boys are home in Winter Harbor and they know absolutely nothing about it. There father has this crazy will though and now all three brothers are thrown together living in a house when they don't even get along lol. This story focuses on Callum and Harlow and these have a twisted past that left them both hurt. These two go thru so much and im not gonna lie I wondered if they was gonna get there happy ever after. Super cheesy and cute read.
March 30, 2022
Another successful read.
I just love Whitley Cox writing style, I love everything she’s wrote, real life stories that never fail to give me the feels.
The 3 Winters brothers are all estranged and angry with each other without knowing how to interact with each other.
Shipped off to boarding school at 2-6 yrs they never had chance to bond or be brothers, and rebellion and anger festered.
Callum Winters had a breakup with Harlow thanks to his brothers vengeful antics…, roll on 8 yrs and they are all thrown together in the reading of the will of their estranged father.
Soul searching and growing up happens to the brothers until they finally reach out to mend fences whilst Colton and Harlow mend their relationship.
Looking forward to getting into Carson’s story next.
I just love Whitley Cox writing style, I love everything she’s wrote, real life stories that never fail to give me the feels.
The 3 Winters brothers are all estranged and angry with each other without knowing how to interact with each other.
Shipped off to boarding school at 2-6 yrs they never had chance to bond or be brothers, and rebellion and anger festered.
Callum Winters had a breakup with Harlow thanks to his brothers vengeful antics…, roll on 8 yrs and they are all thrown together in the reading of the will of their estranged father.
Soul searching and growing up happens to the brothers until they finally reach out to mend fences whilst Colton and Harlow mend their relationship.
Looking forward to getting into Carson’s story next.
March 31, 2022
The Bastard Heir the newest book by Whitley Cox and the amazing Ember Leigh, this is my first book by Ember and wow it’s so good, the way these two amazing authors have complemented each other with how they keep us entertained and turning each page wondering what more could happen in this story. Callum Winter and Harlow Jackson never expected to see each other again but when the three Wi tee brothers come time town quite isn’t what it will be. I loved this book so much I now need Carson’s story next to read. Well done ladies.
April 1, 2022
Whitley Cox is one of my favorite authors and I was excited to read this book. Ember Leigh is a new author to me, but will definitely be an author I read more of.
This book is a great second chance romance.
Harlow and Callum have a rocky history...to out it mildly. I was sucked into their romance. Callum and his family have a messy history with each other and the town they find themselves in.
Kicks off what is sure to be an amazing series!
Loved it!!
NO cliffhanger!
This book is a great second chance romance.
Harlow and Callum have a rocky history...to out it mildly. I was sucked into their romance. Callum and his family have a messy history with each other and the town they find themselves in.
Kicks off what is sure to be an amazing series!
Loved it!!
NO cliffhanger!
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