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The first time I met Kalina Lawson, she nearly passed out. Being a firefighter, I couldn’t just walk back to my cabin. I stayed with her until I knew she was all right. But her warm and friendly company is refreshing, and I quickly become enamored with the stunning cabin manager. When danger and threats start kicking up around Kalina, my quick fishing trip with the guys turns into a mission to keep her safe.
I thought River Voss, the hot renter in the cabin next door, was just an extra work bonus. Living in the middle of the woods wasn’t always my dream. But the second I got the opportunity to run Tree Haven Cabin Rentals, I jumped on it. I couldn’t get away from the negativity of my hometown fast enough. At least I thought I was leaving it behind. With an enemy upping his game against me, my peaceful life in the woods is slipping out of my hands. And that hot new renter becomes the protective force I’ve never had.
Now I need River not only to help me save this business, but to save me too.
I thought River Voss, the hot renter in the cabin next door, was just an extra work bonus. Living in the middle of the woods wasn’t always my dream. But the second I got the opportunity to run Tree Haven Cabin Rentals, I jumped on it. I couldn’t get away from the negativity of my hometown fast enough. At least I thought I was leaving it behind. With an enemy upping his game against me, my peaceful life in the woods is slipping out of my hands. And that hot new renter becomes the protective force I’ve never had.
Now I need River not only to help me save this business, but to save me too.
254 pages, ebook
Published July 26, 2022
143 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
C.E. Johnson
16 books321 followersC.E. Johnson writes protective hero romance with a side of suspense!
She wrote her first book in 2017 and hasn't stopped writing since. C.E. is best known for her romantic suspense series, The Elements of the Heart, which features protective heroes, strong heroines in danger, small town feels, and love that will have your heart swelling.
She's a dog lover, iced coffee enthusiast, and dreams of living in a cabin deep in the woods one day like so many of her characters do.
C.E. Johnson currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, two kids, and a bunch of spoiled rotten animals.
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She wrote her first book in 2017 and hasn't stopped writing since. C.E. is best known for her romantic suspense series, The Elements of the Heart, which features protective heroes, strong heroines in danger, small town feels, and love that will have your heart swelling.
She's a dog lover, iced coffee enthusiast, and dreams of living in a cabin deep in the woods one day like so many of her characters do.
C.E. Johnson currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, two kids, and a bunch of spoiled rotten animals.
Want to stay up to date on all the latest news, sales, giveaways, and releases?
Sign up for my newsletter! https://goo.gl/4yo6Rg
Follow me on Facebook! https://goo.gl/84dZJN
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
July 25, 2022
River
By C. E. Johnson
Wow! River is my first book by C. E. Johnson and it’s a great emotional ride!! Recommended by an author I’ve been reading for years (thank you Susan), I’ll be looking for and reading ms Johnson’s back list for sure!!
River Voss and his three life long buddies are vacationing in a rental cabin in the woods. He’s a sweet, sexy, protective firefighter, but needs some time away from his job and his friends are there for him. Then he meets Kalina the property manager of the cabins and immediately becomes protective of her. She has some baggage in the form of an abusive ex that shows up and threatens her peaceful life she’s worked hard to carve out for herself, but River and his friends and family will be there to look out for her.
I really loved Kalina and her strength of mind to overcome her past abuses, see them for what they are, and persist in healing herself. Knowing, it won’t happen in a day she recognizes she needs time to heal. River is a swoon worthy alpha male who has a soft and caring heart. They work so well together. His friends are a hoot and the banter between them is classic. They are there for each other no questions asked.
This is the first book in a series and I already have a vested interest in the friends Jaxon, Cole, and Zayn. I’m looking forward to reading their stories as well. This is my voluntary review.
By C. E. Johnson
Wow! River is my first book by C. E. Johnson and it’s a great emotional ride!! Recommended by an author I’ve been reading for years (thank you Susan), I’ll be looking for and reading ms Johnson’s back list for sure!!
River Voss and his three life long buddies are vacationing in a rental cabin in the woods. He’s a sweet, sexy, protective firefighter, but needs some time away from his job and his friends are there for him. Then he meets Kalina the property manager of the cabins and immediately becomes protective of her. She has some baggage in the form of an abusive ex that shows up and threatens her peaceful life she’s worked hard to carve out for herself, but River and his friends and family will be there to look out for her.
I really loved Kalina and her strength of mind to overcome her past abuses, see them for what they are, and persist in healing herself. Knowing, it won’t happen in a day she recognizes she needs time to heal. River is a swoon worthy alpha male who has a soft and caring heart. They work so well together. His friends are a hoot and the banter between them is classic. They are there for each other no questions asked.
This is the first book in a series and I already have a vested interest in the friends Jaxon, Cole, and Zayn. I’m looking forward to reading their stories as well. This is my voluntary review.
July 22, 2022
This author just proved to me that she absolutely has another “knock it out of the park” series in her to write! Kalina and River bring with them new friends, a new town to hang out in, new dangers, new mysteries, and more of Everest (who I’ve adored since jump). Kalina is determined to be happy with herself. To love herself. To retrain her brain to get past manipulation and emotional abuse. And she’s doing a fabulous job. Sure, she’s got a cruddy boss, someone who hates her for who knows why, and stress, but she’s free to be who she is here. And River is pretty sure he’s already living the dream…until he meets Kalina. Then he realizes maybe he’s just been asleep at the wheel and needs to grab the woman who is already fast becoming his new dream before she slips away. Of course, his friends are along for the laughs, the tears, the fears, and the love. So we get much more than simple romance in these pages. We get camaraderie, family, hope, worry, and the promise of more to come once River and Kalina find their way to forever. Personally, I’m eagerly awaiting Holly’s tale. She’s already been so great to this group that she and Jaxon richly deserve to find their happiness together.
July 25, 2022
Had me hooked from the first page!
Kalina is the manager at Tree Haven Cabins in Katoka Falls where River and his buddies rent out a cabin. Seeing the incredibly good looking guys shirtless was a pleasant surprise for her first glance at them! Kalina is strong willed and is used to fighting her own battles. Including getting out of a toxic relationship, dealing with perfect parents when she is anything but perfect, and saving her job and home. When River keeps coming up with ways to see the beautiful curvy Kalina it catches her by surprise. You can never have to many towels on vacation right? Zayn, Cole, and Jaxon are River's buddies and can't help but push him towards Kalina especially when she is threatened right in front of them.
This is the first book in a new series and I can't wait to read more about Jaxon, Cole, and Zayn. They have so much personality and really bring so much fun to this book! Who doesn't love big alpha men who ride carts while shopping like scooters or wear pajama pants with their cat on them!
I had no doubt in my mind that I would fall in love with this book! I read the series before this one and each book blew my mind! You don't have to read it first but if you do you will meet River's brother and the others ahead of time. You will not be short on Alpha men and strong women who need a little assistance when it hits the fan!
Kalina is the manager at Tree Haven Cabins in Katoka Falls where River and his buddies rent out a cabin. Seeing the incredibly good looking guys shirtless was a pleasant surprise for her first glance at them! Kalina is strong willed and is used to fighting her own battles. Including getting out of a toxic relationship, dealing with perfect parents when she is anything but perfect, and saving her job and home. When River keeps coming up with ways to see the beautiful curvy Kalina it catches her by surprise. You can never have to many towels on vacation right? Zayn, Cole, and Jaxon are River's buddies and can't help but push him towards Kalina especially when she is threatened right in front of them.
This is the first book in a new series and I can't wait to read more about Jaxon, Cole, and Zayn. They have so much personality and really bring so much fun to this book! Who doesn't love big alpha men who ride carts while shopping like scooters or wear pajama pants with their cat on them!
I had no doubt in my mind that I would fall in love with this book! I read the series before this one and each book blew my mind! You don't have to read it first but if you do you will meet River's brother and the others ahead of time. You will not be short on Alpha men and strong women who need a little assistance when it hits the fan!
July 25, 2022
Kalina is a strong, self-sufficient woman who has made a life for herself and River is a protective alpha who bears some pain from a past fire call. They meet when River brings her a fish he and his friends caught with him thinking Kalina was an elderly neighbor. From there sparks a romance that is full of steam, some suspense, and the introduction of four protective men of whom will center in this series.
Told in first person with alternating views, this is a well-written story that is entertaining and keeps you reading voraciously to find out how it is going to end. River's brother plays a role in this novel who has his own book from a previous series but this doesn't cause an issue with someone who has never read this author before. This was the first book I've read from C.E. Johnson and it will not be the last.
Told in first person with alternating views, this is a well-written story that is entertaining and keeps you reading voraciously to find out how it is going to end. River's brother plays a role in this novel who has his own book from a previous series but this doesn't cause an issue with someone who has never read this author before. This was the first book I've read from C.E. Johnson and it will not be the last.
July 27, 2022
River Voss is firefighter perfection from his heroic good deeds to his first life-changing kiss with his wildflower beauty Kalina. This couple is zero to sixty in the chemistry department, but it’s even more beautiful to watch them fall in love with such breathtaking intensity. They have both been burned in the past and still they are such amazing people. River is loyal, protective and sweet, but his alpha side is sexy as can be! He also has the most amazing best friends that have me laughing, smiling and feeling safe! Their circle is the best place to be because they’ve got you forever no matter what! Everyone should read this book for the store, the little boy, the cereal, the cat pjs, the soap, the fishing, the porch and Everest alone. River & Kali’s love will stand the test of time because it burns like a fire that will never be put out!
Tracey@Life Reads With Friends Book Blog
Tracey@Life Reads With Friends Book Blog
July 23, 2022
River & Kalina are just excellent! I love both characters so much, and this new group getting stories is going to be fire!! Meet cutest, suspense, amazing writing & a top notch story all wrapped into one. Plus- Everest cameos!!
😍😍😍😍
😍😍😍😍
July 26, 2022
The lovely Ms. Johnson did it again!
Lovely and creative names + amazing characters + BEAUTIFUL setting + fantastic friendships =
another knock it out of the park story! Oh, and let’s not forget the little “laugh out loud” moments and the suspenseful twist that she always throws in there. :)
River and Kalina are both very relatable characters. They are down to earth, strong-willed, and perfect for each other. We readers get to hear about a few of our old friends from the Elements of the Heart series, as well as getting to know characters for future books. It’s not just a brief introduction to these new characters. You really get to know them and therefore really want to read the next one. Magnificently done! (And that cover…WOW!)
Lovely and creative names + amazing characters + BEAUTIFUL setting + fantastic friendships =
another knock it out of the park story! Oh, and let’s not forget the little “laugh out loud” moments and the suspenseful twist that she always throws in there. :)
River and Kalina are both very relatable characters. They are down to earth, strong-willed, and perfect for each other. We readers get to hear about a few of our old friends from the Elements of the Heart series, as well as getting to know characters for future books. It’s not just a brief introduction to these new characters. You really get to know them and therefore really want to read the next one. Magnificently done! (And that cover…WOW!)
July 27, 2022
River! River! River! He is such an alpha male. Protective, kind, and such loving man. And his friends are the best! Each with their own way of captivating you.
Kalina is a strong female heroine that you will connect with and cheer for her happily ever after. The girl can’t seem to get ahead until River runs into her life.
Easy read filled with great friends, good laughs, small town romance with an added twist. Don’t wait to get your copy today.
Can’t wait see what CE Johnson has in story for Jaxon next. He intrigues me, so I need his nook now
!!!?!
Nanedsmomba- reviewer and blogger for Life Reads With Friends
Kalina is a strong female heroine that you will connect with and cheer for her happily ever after. The girl can’t seem to get ahead until River runs into her life.
Easy read filled with great friends, good laughs, small town romance with an added twist. Don’t wait to get your copy today.
Can’t wait see what CE Johnson has in story for Jaxon next. He intrigues me, so I need his nook now
!!!?!
Nanedsmomba- reviewer and blogger for Life Reads With Friends
July 25, 2022
Great plot & very likeable characters . I like starting a new series & getting to know not only the main characters,but the secondary characters as well. River is most definitely a gentleman as well as a protector to those who are important to him. Kalina is a strong lady . Kalina is a very self sufficient person. If her mind is made up there is no stopping her on accomplishing what she has set out to do. Hickory cabin sounds beautiful the author paints a vivid picture in her story of the scenery.
July 26, 2022
This is my first book by this author and it definitely won't be my last! River is River and Kalina's story and is the first in a new series. I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down. River is well written, with a great story and lovable characters. I'm excited to carry on with this series and will be working through the authors backlist of books!
July 27, 2022
I absolutely adored River and Kalina’s story. I’m a huge romantic suspense fan and am always looking for new authors and series. This author is new to me and I am sooo excited! The story was great, I loved the writing style, and I was hooked immediately. I can’t wait for book two!
July 31, 2022
Sexy swoony romance with a side of danger
I loved River and Kalina’s sweet, exciting, and swoony story. Kalina manages a cabin rental business in small town Katoka Falls and lives an isolated life. River is a firefighter who is renting one of the cabins for two weeks with his three friends. River brings fish to share with what he thought was the “old” woman in the cabin next to theirs but discovers young beautiful Kalina instead. There is an instant connection between them. As they spend more time together, they become closer and their feelings deepen, but they live in separate towns. This book has a little bit of everything you’d expect from romantic suspense - sweet moments, fan your face steam, dangerous action, strong friendships, dysfunctional families, painful pasts, mystery, plot twists, uber protective men, real life issues, imperfect characters, and even some chuckles. Even though the bad guy was easy to guess, that did not diminish the enjoyment of the story at all. The story was well written, the characters had depth and growth, and the storyline was engaging. I will be reading more of this series.
I loved River and Kalina’s sweet, exciting, and swoony story. Kalina manages a cabin rental business in small town Katoka Falls and lives an isolated life. River is a firefighter who is renting one of the cabins for two weeks with his three friends. River brings fish to share with what he thought was the “old” woman in the cabin next to theirs but discovers young beautiful Kalina instead. There is an instant connection between them. As they spend more time together, they become closer and their feelings deepen, but they live in separate towns. This book has a little bit of everything you’d expect from romantic suspense - sweet moments, fan your face steam, dangerous action, strong friendships, dysfunctional families, painful pasts, mystery, plot twists, uber protective men, real life issues, imperfect characters, and even some chuckles. Even though the bad guy was easy to guess, that did not diminish the enjoyment of the story at all. The story was well written, the characters had depth and growth, and the storyline was engaging. I will be reading more of this series.
July 28, 2022
Kalina manages the cabins that River & his friends came to for a boys fishing trip, and both got more than they ever thought they would in the very best of ways. She's a strong heroine with a sense of humor that entertained me to no end, and totally deals with a boss who is a pain in the a** perfectly because I would have walked, and I couldn't have loved her more. River is an amazing sexy firefighter with a demon or two, and he was perfect for Kalina. It doesn't take long before he's totally smitten with this amazing girl, but some other things jump off. There's danger stalking Kalina which gave me a rush that I get from suspense so I was in my happy place for sure. This author blends romance & suspense/mystery seamlessly with a kicker of heat & humor so I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough, and HOLY HELL! That cover needs to be a pillowcase because YUMMY! I'm super excited about this new series, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
July 23, 2022
Really enjoyed this book. Love an alpha strong hero, who is also so sweet and proud of the love he feels for others. And Kalina is a character I can relate to, strong, independent, loves her own company. Love these two characters, their meeting, their growth individually and together, all whilst being so beautifuly written. CE Johnson writes such great stories, one of my new favourite authors for sure. We also got the added bonus of a new group of friends, which means more stories in this new series, cannot wait!
July 26, 2022
What a great start to what is shaping up to be an incredible series! I absolutely loved this book from start to finish. River is such a charming, sweet, protective hero. The way he cares for Kalina right from the start is so heartwarming. I just adored Kalina and her fighting spirit, trying to rebuild herself back up after a breakup. One thing I can’t get enough of is a group of guy friends who are so protective of their friends and family and that’s exactly what happens with this group. They brought Kalina into their circle, no questions asked and had her back. The perfect mix of sweet, sexy, and suspenseful that’s beautifully written..this story did not disappoint and I can’t wait for more!
July 23, 2022
In "River", by C.E. Johnson, Kalina is the property manager for a group of cabins when she meet firefighter River, who is renting one of the cabins with 3 of his friends. They start up a relationship and when more than usual strange things start happening at the cabins River and his friends step up to help. I enjoyed the character of Kalina that she was self sufficient and that she had a side hustle. The feeling of community between the four friends was fun to see too.
July 24, 2022
River and the guys are on a fishing trip where he meets Kalina. She runs the cabins where the guys are staying. Kalina likes being by herself and working thru her problems by herself. River falls fast and hard for her. This book is full of joking around with the guys with drama, danger and tears when Kalina's past comes calling. We meet some new characters, and some great friends is this small town. I can't wait to get Holly and Jaxon's story next. I also liked seeing Everest again.
July 26, 2022
As usual C.E Johnson has done it again! If you’ve read her series Watch me drown you definitely recognize River being that he’s Everests brother and if you haven’t read it I urge you to do so you won’t be disappointed!
July 31, 2022
RIVER by C.E. Johnson is the First book in the Protecting You, Finding Us Series. This is the story of River and Kalina. River and his buddies are renting a cabin at the Tree Haven Cabins in Katoka Falls. This is were he meets Kalina who is the manger there and stays in one of the cabins. Both have been burned by past relationships but their attractions are so strong. This starts their story. Enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more from this author.
March 2, 2023
Good
This is a great start to a series. I can't wait to read more of these guys. This had a great plot and read so well.
This is a great start to a series. I can't wait to read more of these guys. This had a great plot and read so well.
July 26, 2022
𝔸 ℍ𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕣𝕞𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕄𝕦𝕤𝕥 ℝ𝕖𝕒𝕕 😍😍
💕🅵🅰🆅🅾🆄🆁🅸🆃🅴 🆀🆄🅾🆃🅴💕
𝙎𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙖𝙣 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙤𝙛 𝙜𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙮 𝙨𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙠, 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙢𝙮 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚.
🅼🆈 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆:
Ahhh.. River and Kalina have simply made me swoon and have a blast with them reading them as I fell in love alongside them.
Kalina is such a hardworking girl as she not only manages Tree Haven Cabins in Katoka Falls all by herself but also cleans and is the resident handyman and troubleshooter.
Her Employer Mr. Porter is not a understanding man and if there are any complaints from neighbors due to renters of the cabin, it is all dumped onto Kalina.
Kalina loves this job even though it is stressful but after the recent pain she wants nothing more than to stay where she is.
Kalina's world gets a shake when four dudes come to vacation in one of the cabins and an instant friendship is formed.
Especially River who's always helping her out and there's an attraction and a spark that she can't help but feel and hopes River does to.
Read Read this FOR ALL THE FREAKING FEELS AND THE WARMTH AND FAMILY AND FRIENDS THAT ARE LIKE FAMILY.
I'm so glad I picked this one up as I love when all the characters (the main ones 😉) make me fall for them and are just so freaking awesome that I yearn to be friends with them.
Kalina is used to being on her own but River and his friends are just something else as they show her that Kindness and Selfless friendship still does exist.
The twist at the end had me turning the pages and so anxious to know how everything would work out.
I loved the gang of friends of River, Jaxon, Cole and Zayn all have their quirks but all of them are genuinely amazing humans and awesome friends.
They easy friendship and camaraderie had me smiling and laughing at their antics.
River's brother, Everest has also got me curious to know how they connected as they are step brothers, yet share a strong bond. Everest is so protective of River and loves and cares for him and I also loved how by extension also he helps out Kalina. I'm so excited to read Everest' book too.
Also, what is going on with those looks being exchanged between Holly and Jaxon. Ooohhh.. There's definitely something going on over there and with Jaxon being the big papa bear with everyone with the heart of gold and Holly who's being so wonderful to Kalina and WTF happened at the end with Holly. I can't wait to find out and so excited for Jaxon's book. 😍😍
Ahhhh.. This one... Can't recommend it enough and I do feel this one is gonna give me one Major Book hangover as River and Kalina are people who stay with you long after the book has ended and make you want to reread again as I'll be doing soon fo sure. Loved freaking loved this one. 💖💖💖💖💖💖
💕🅵🅰🆅🅾🆄🆁🅸🆃🅴 🆀🆄🅾🆃🅴💕
𝙎𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙖𝙣 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙤𝙛 𝙜𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙮 𝙨𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙠, 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙢𝙮 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚.
🅼🆈 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆:
Ahhh.. River and Kalina have simply made me swoon and have a blast with them reading them as I fell in love alongside them.
Kalina is such a hardworking girl as she not only manages Tree Haven Cabins in Katoka Falls all by herself but also cleans and is the resident handyman and troubleshooter.
Her Employer Mr. Porter is not a understanding man and if there are any complaints from neighbors due to renters of the cabin, it is all dumped onto Kalina.
Kalina loves this job even though it is stressful but after the recent pain she wants nothing more than to stay where she is.
Kalina's world gets a shake when four dudes come to vacation in one of the cabins and an instant friendship is formed.
Especially River who's always helping her out and there's an attraction and a spark that she can't help but feel and hopes River does to.
Read Read this FOR ALL THE FREAKING FEELS AND THE WARMTH AND FAMILY AND FRIENDS THAT ARE LIKE FAMILY.
I'm so glad I picked this one up as I love when all the characters (the main ones 😉) make me fall for them and are just so freaking awesome that I yearn to be friends with them.
Kalina is used to being on her own but River and his friends are just something else as they show her that Kindness and Selfless friendship still does exist.
The twist at the end had me turning the pages and so anxious to know how everything would work out.
I loved the gang of friends of River, Jaxon, Cole and Zayn all have their quirks but all of them are genuinely amazing humans and awesome friends.
They easy friendship and camaraderie had me smiling and laughing at their antics.
River's brother, Everest has also got me curious to know how they connected as they are step brothers, yet share a strong bond. Everest is so protective of River and loves and cares for him and I also loved how by extension also he helps out Kalina. I'm so excited to read Everest' book too.
Also, what is going on with those looks being exchanged between Holly and Jaxon. Ooohhh.. There's definitely something going on over there and with Jaxon being the big papa bear with everyone with the heart of gold and Holly who's being so wonderful to Kalina and WTF happened at the end with Holly. I can't wait to find out and so excited for Jaxon's book. 😍😍
Ahhhh.. This one... Can't recommend it enough and I do feel this one is gonna give me one Major Book hangover as River and Kalina are people who stay with you long after the book has ended and make you want to reread again as I'll be doing soon fo sure. Loved freaking loved this one. 💖💖💖💖💖💖
July 29, 2022
A new series with a fresh group of friends from C.E. Johnson. This time our hero is a firefighter dealing with some job related trauma and is at a crossroads in his career. He's taking time out with his best friends to figure things out at a little camping resort in a neighboring town. Kalina is the curvy campground manager, with some trauma of her own, and her and River are immediately drawn to each other. Throw in the matchmaking, and often hilarious best friends, and it's just fun, romance, and a little bit of danger and mystery.
I couldn't get to this fast enough! It was SO good. It always feels like a treat when characters from previous series pop up, but in this case even more so because of the new brother relationship between River and Everest. While my greedy self really wished for more Everest and River bonding, I think C.E. did a great job of providing enough details to fully understand how they found their way to each other as adults, and that their bond was solid and established by the time River meets Kalina.
Kalina was a great heroine. A wonderful balance of moxy and vulnerability. I liked that they trusted their instant connection despite both of them struggling with inner turmoil. The mental abuse she endured in her previous relationship left her self-esteem in tatters, and River gave her growing self confidence the boost she needed to cement how beautiful and worthy she was, while Kalina reminded River that his profession was his calling, and one terrible night doesn't negate the hundreds of good ones. They were good for each other in all the best ways.
It was steamy and dreamy with low angst and just the right amount of drama and danger. It was a win all the way around. Bonus love for the mentions of the Elements gang.
I couldn't get to this fast enough! It was SO good. It always feels like a treat when characters from previous series pop up, but in this case even more so because of the new brother relationship between River and Everest. While my greedy self really wished for more Everest and River bonding, I think C.E. did a great job of providing enough details to fully understand how they found their way to each other as adults, and that their bond was solid and established by the time River meets Kalina.
Kalina was a great heroine. A wonderful balance of moxy and vulnerability. I liked that they trusted their instant connection despite both of them struggling with inner turmoil. The mental abuse she endured in her previous relationship left her self-esteem in tatters, and River gave her growing self confidence the boost she needed to cement how beautiful and worthy she was, while Kalina reminded River that his profession was his calling, and one terrible night doesn't negate the hundreds of good ones. They were good for each other in all the best ways.
It was steamy and dreamy with low angst and just the right amount of drama and danger. It was a win all the way around. Bonus love for the mentions of the Elements gang.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2022
𝐻𝑜𝑙𝑦 𝑑𝑎𝑚𝑛, 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑏𝑜𝑜𝑘 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑠𝑜𝑜𝑜 𝑔𝑜𝑜𝑑!!
卂𝘳ᥴ 尺ꫀꪜ𝓲ꫀ᭙
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - River
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - Kalina
5 𝐑𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝐑𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝑩𝒚 𝐶.𝐸. 𝐽𝑜ℎ𝑛𝑠𝑜𝑛
First, book by this author and I was hooked from the beginning.
Kalina, is the manager of Tree Haven Cabins, she works every second of her day, but with the peace and quiet she gets...especially when she gets to be away from an ex, who was always judgemental and parents who don't understand her but judge her every decision, and she gets to do what she loves making soap, with varying scents...she doesn't regret making the move.
River, is a firefighter, but after something terrible happens when he was out on a call, he needs some downtime. He and his three best friends rent one the cabins that Kalina is in charge of.
When these two come face to face, the connection is instant. River sees Kalina in a way that she doesn't see herself. As the days go by, they find themselves falling for each other, but when Kalina's ex shows up and causes some problems, River will do everything he can to make sure the woman he is falling for is safe.
Instant connection, off the charts chemistry, steamy as hell moments, and jaw dropping moments...made this one hell of a page turner.
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Jaxon, Cole, Zayn and Rivers brother Everest were amazing. The way they loved and supported each other 😍❤️
Holly, Kalina's friend ❤️
Can't wait for the next one!!!📚
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ♥️🚨🍕🎣♥️
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 🏠💋🏠💋🏠
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧💧
卂𝘳ᥴ 尺ꫀꪜ𝓲ꫀ᭙
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - River
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - Kalina
5 𝐑𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝐑𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝑩𝒚 𝐶.𝐸. 𝐽𝑜ℎ𝑛𝑠𝑜𝑛
First, book by this author and I was hooked from the beginning.
Kalina, is the manager of Tree Haven Cabins, she works every second of her day, but with the peace and quiet she gets...especially when she gets to be away from an ex, who was always judgemental and parents who don't understand her but judge her every decision, and she gets to do what she loves making soap, with varying scents...she doesn't regret making the move.
River, is a firefighter, but after something terrible happens when he was out on a call, he needs some downtime. He and his three best friends rent one the cabins that Kalina is in charge of.
When these two come face to face, the connection is instant. River sees Kalina in a way that she doesn't see herself. As the days go by, they find themselves falling for each other, but when Kalina's ex shows up and causes some problems, River will do everything he can to make sure the woman he is falling for is safe.
Instant connection, off the charts chemistry, steamy as hell moments, and jaw dropping moments...made this one hell of a page turner.
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Jaxon, Cole, Zayn and Rivers brother Everest were amazing. The way they loved and supported each other 😍❤️
Holly, Kalina's friend ❤️
Can't wait for the next one!!!📚
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ♥️🚨🍕🎣♥️
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 🏠💋🏠💋🏠
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧💧
September 10, 2022
River and Kalina
This was a quick read for me. A good insta-love, protective alpha, romantic suspense.
River and his three best friends rent a cabin in the woods for two weeks to help him get over a traumatic call as a firefighter. Kalina is the manager of the cabins River and his friends are staying at. She’s fighting to make the business profitable while finding her new life in the woods alone. She and River share an instant connection and spend most of his vacation getting to know one another. He shows her what it means to have someone to lean on and his friends instantly accept her as one of their group. She shows River what his life has been missing. When an abusive ex turns up in town, the stakes are raised and River has to fight for the woman he’s fallen for.
This was a fairly sweet romance. River is the perfect protector and Kalina is the sweet girl finding her own strength. I loved the found family element with River’s friends. I can’t wait to see where their stories take them and hopefully see more of River and Kalina as secondary characters.
This was a quick read for me. A good insta-love, protective alpha, romantic suspense.
River and his three best friends rent a cabin in the woods for two weeks to help him get over a traumatic call as a firefighter. Kalina is the manager of the cabins River and his friends are staying at. She’s fighting to make the business profitable while finding her new life in the woods alone. She and River share an instant connection and spend most of his vacation getting to know one another. He shows her what it means to have someone to lean on and his friends instantly accept her as one of their group. She shows River what his life has been missing. When an abusive ex turns up in town, the stakes are raised and River has to fight for the woman he’s fallen for.
This was a fairly sweet romance. River is the perfect protector and Kalina is the sweet girl finding her own strength. I loved the found family element with River’s friends. I can’t wait to see where their stories take them and hopefully see more of River and Kalina as secondary characters.
July 28, 2022
C.E. Johnson has done it again. While I was sad to see the end of her Elements of the Heart series. The Protecting You, Finding Us series is starting off just as amazing. I quickly fell in love with both Kalina and River. You also can't help be love Jaxon, Holly, Cole and Zayn.
Kalina is a woman to admire. She has chose herself and her happiness over pleasing her family. She got herself away from a not great relationship, and worked hard to regain her self confidence.
River is a protective man. Once he cares for you that is it. He and his friends are fiercely protective of those they love, and those who are important to those they love. They are just like our guys from the Elements of the Heart series. He is working through some issues of his own.
This book is full of friendship, and love. It has fun scenes, sexy scenes, and is full of suspense. It is one I didn't want to put down. I can't wait for Jaxon's book to come out.
Kalina is a woman to admire. She has chose herself and her happiness over pleasing her family. She got herself away from a not great relationship, and worked hard to regain her self confidence.
River is a protective man. Once he cares for you that is it. He and his friends are fiercely protective of those they love, and those who are important to those they love. They are just like our guys from the Elements of the Heart series. He is working through some issues of his own.
This book is full of friendship, and love. It has fun scenes, sexy scenes, and is full of suspense. It is one I didn't want to put down. I can't wait for Jaxon's book to come out.
February 22, 2023
Emotional | Suspenseful
I love book 1 in this series and can’t wait to continue.
Kalina has secluded herself in the woods and loves her new job taking care of the rentals in the woodsy property. Constantly on her toes keeping busy she’s enjoying this change in her life.
River is out with his best friends enjoying their break when he gets a glimpse of a stunning girl. Something that he’s not looking for but is still curious about!
River is incredible and is not shy in showing his interest in Kalina. Something has awakened in both of them and their so excited to explore these new feelings.
Lots of emotional and suspenseful moments.
I love book 1 in this series and can’t wait to continue.
Kalina has secluded herself in the woods and loves her new job taking care of the rentals in the woodsy property. Constantly on her toes keeping busy she’s enjoying this change in her life.
River is out with his best friends enjoying their break when he gets a glimpse of a stunning girl. Something that he’s not looking for but is still curious about!
River is incredible and is not shy in showing his interest in Kalina. Something has awakened in both of them and their so excited to explore these new feelings.
Lots of emotional and suspenseful moments.
July 29, 2022
This is an enjoyable read that has characters with personalities you can relate to. The story is well written and full of everything you'd expect from this author. You have an alpha male with a big heart, a determined woman who deserves a little appreciation, and the perfect setting to compliment these characters. River and Kalina's story is yet another great addition to your C.E. Johnson bookshelf.
June 21, 2024
Cute Meet!
River and Karina are a great couple! Their quick falling into love works because it starts as friends attracted to each other. There is an issue for me with the timeline — the guys were supposed to be in the cabins for 10 days but somewhere along the way 2 weeks have gone by.
Some parts dragged a bit and I’m not sure about the “bad guy’s” motive. But all in all a good book. Loved having Everest and Dani making an appearance! (That was a fabulous book!)
River and Karina are a great couple! Their quick falling into love works because it starts as friends attracted to each other. There is an issue for me with the timeline — the guys were supposed to be in the cabins for 10 days but somewhere along the way 2 weeks have gone by.
Some parts dragged a bit and I’m not sure about the “bad guy’s” motive. But all in all a good book. Loved having Everest and Dani making an appearance! (That was a fabulous book!)
July 27, 2022
This is already an explosive start to a new series. I absolutely loved River and Kalina’s story. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I couldn't put the book down with all the suspense that intrigued me to find out what would happen next. It's a pretty easy read too with the storyline that flowed smoothly and likeable characters. I'm definitely looking forward to more of this series. I'm already so invested!
July 31, 2022
Fall in love with River!
As always, CE Johnson has created a world that leaves you wanting more! River and Kalina are the sweetest couple. Both fighting their own demons from the past while forging a strong future. CE mixes a sweet love story with some terrifying twists. Can’t wait to read about the rest of the group of friends!
As always, CE Johnson has created a world that leaves you wanting more! River and Kalina are the sweetest couple. Both fighting their own demons from the past while forging a strong future. CE mixes a sweet love story with some terrifying twists. Can’t wait to read about the rest of the group of friends!
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