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Wheels & Hogs #1

Connelly's Horde

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Welcome to Desmond Connelly's Horde or better known as his extended family at Wheels & Hogs Garage. For years these survivors have been dealing with what life throws them while trying to move forward from the atrocities in their lives. Some have secrets not shared while others are working through problems that are continually present in their lives.

Follow Des as he introduces you to each one of his crew at Wheels & Hogs in this short Novella. Start to understand how a group of strangers become not only friends but family over the years. Get a snapshot of why when life pushes you down, in this garage, you push back until you are on your feet again.

66 pages, ebook

First published July 1, 2014

122 people are currently reading
458 people want to read

About the author

D.M. Earl

47 books369 followers
USA Today Bestselling author, D. M. Earl creates authentic and genuine characters while spinning stories that feel so real and relatable that the readers plunge deep within the plot, begging for more. Complete with drama, angst, romance, and passion, the stories jump off the page.

When Earl, an avid reader since childhood, isn't at her keyboard pouring her heart into her work, you'll find her in Northwest Indiana snuggling up to her husband, the love of her life, with her seven fur babies nearby. Her other passions include gardening and shockingly cruising around town on the back of her 2004 Harley. She's a woman of many talents and interests. Earl appreciates each and every reader who has ever given her a chance--and hopes to connect on social media with all of her readers.

For the latest news and updates on books and upcoming releases, you can subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/dmearln...

Also you can stay in touch by visiting:
http://www.dmearl.com/follow-me/

Email
dmearl@dmearl.com

Passion, angst, and drama: Earl's your girl.

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5 stars
85 (37%)
4 stars
82 (36%)
3 stars
42 (18%)
2 stars
7 (3%)
1 star
8 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
Profile Image for Lu Bielefeld .
4,304 reviews639 followers
March 27, 2015
The book is quite short and is an introduction of the characters in the series. Enjoyed it and I will follow!
1,250 reviews4 followers
December 31, 2022
a great beginning to this series. It basically gives the background history of the different characters and how they look out for one of their own facing tragedy.
Wonderful narration by Jenna St. Claire and Gunner Qualen..
Profile Image for JB's Book Obsession - Jennifer.
465 reviews20 followers
July 10, 2015
Desmond Connelly owns the shop Wheels & Hogs, repairing motorcycles, cars and customizing both. Over the years he has collected a motley crew of guys and girls that he has come to call family. Each one of them a survivor dealing with physical, emotional and sexual abuse, as well as heartache and illness. Some have allowed others in and asked for help, others keep their secrets hidden letting their demons eat away at them.

In this novella we follow Des as we get introduced to every one of the people in his crew. The author gives us a little bit of background on each character, not too much, but just enough to keep us wanting more.

Even though this is a novella the author did a great job developing the characters and the stories for the next books to come. I really felt the family atmosphere that surrounds them all at Wheels & Hogs and I look forward to getting to read all of their stories.

Great start to a promising series that sounds like it will be filled with emotion, heartbreak, friendship, family and the love that helps to keep it all together.

*Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Patty.
5,120 reviews55 followers
May 3, 2022
Connelly's Horde
Wheels & Hogs #1
by D.M. Earl
Narrated by Gunnar Qualen and Jenna St Claire

This is a quick novella, but the introduction to a series I know I am going to love! We meet Connelly's Horde! Desmond Connelly owns an operates Wheels and Hogs, a motorcycle repair shop. He does custom work too. He has an extended family, filled with characters! It's not by blood, but this close knit group of people is one that cannot be broken. Each has a story to tell and it will be fun to hear them all. Des is quite the player, but is realizing that it's time to start settling down. He knows who his heart really belongs to, and now we have to see if he can convince her! I can't wait to see what DM Earl has in store for us with this series! I am ready!

Gunnar Qualen and Jenna St Claire are our storytellers, and their duet narration brings out every character. Each had a variety of voices to share as we met each of Des's family. I love how they fit the perfect voice to each, and look forward to hearing the series as they all come to life.

#ALC #comingsoon #contemporaryromance #familysaga #audioromance #dmearl #gunnarqualen #jennastclaire
Profile Image for C.M. Lema.
Author 1 book12 followers
June 24, 2014
Thanks to D.M. for allowing me to dive into Des´s world before it is released.

I fell in love with all of the characters described in this novella. It makes me wonder how hardcore will a villan ever be since all the characters so far are likable except for Katie but who can blame her for wanting more Des.

One character that def got my interest is Wolf... and my heart breaks for Cadence (even if he is a manwhore) and Doc and Fern.

I cant wait to see how this series evolves and I cant wait to see what will happen between Des and Dee, How will Wolf´s and Cadence´s secrets come out with a bang or will they stay hidden, you know what they say nothing can forever stay hidden under the big blue sky.

I need my next fix of Wheels and Hogs ASAP!
Profile Image for Bonnie Rediske- .
311 reviews9 followers
January 31, 2015
I am truly looking forward to more Des after reading this book. The characters have great background provided in this short novella but you are also given a glimpse into a future that you want more of. Cliffhanger, but in a great way! I am excited to see how this group of people heal through all the trauma's they have had and come out the other end!
397 reviews5 followers
March 3, 2015
Great introduction story! It introduces you to the main man Des. He tells you about each member of the family, not blood family but family none the less. It lets you get to know each one of them through Des's eyes. I recommend you read this short intro story before you start Cadence Reflection. Not required, but recommended!♡
Profile Image for Heather.
25 reviews
March 8, 2015
This book is a great background reference for all the characters in the coming books. I liked the way you get a bit of everyone’s story so you don’t feel like you’re missing anything. Everyone has their demons and works to overcome them. Each person works things out in a different way. Great book, don’t skip it, read it!!
Profile Image for Nancy Huddleston.
355 reviews17 followers
April 3, 2015
This was a wonderful way to meet all the characters from the Wheels and Hogs series. D.M.Earl did an amazing job of keeping me interested. I loved how this book was written. It is a great way to get a person hooked. I wish I had read it first. Now please write Des and Dee Dee's story.
Profile Image for Angels.
2,037 reviews17 followers
October 15, 2020
Loved diving into this new series.

Book one is more of an introduction to the series and its characters and it touched on a little bit about each character and a little bit about them but, one thing was sure they all had a mystery surrounding them. We were introduced to Desmond Connelly who is the owner and operator of Wheels of Hogs but, he is also a father figure to most of the men and women who work under him not only that I call him the fixer. He is all the above, father, brother, mentor, and protector, and he considers them all his family regardless of blood. Each character is suffering from their own demons whether it is physical and emotional abuse, or sexual abuse, or heartbreak and illness these misfits have become his family.

The story and its characters read like an MC family because they are all about how a family comes first, and they will do anything and everything to be there for one another through the good times as well as the bad times. We were introduced to Fern, and we found out she is all about being a mother hen to all her boys. We fell instantly in love with this character.

Des regardless of all his good qualities he is a bit of a man whore but, bedding a sea of women is getting old real fast, and he decides it's about time he to cleans up his act and finds a woman to settle down with him to suspend the rest of his life with, and he has someone in mind the one that got away and now he only needs to convince her to give them another chance...

Overall I really enjoyed this novella of what some could call a prequel to what's to come and what we are in store for some drama and romance and a bit of suspense, heartbreak, and stories that are about to rip out our heart.
We loved it!
Profile Image for Lizzi.
2,082 reviews16 followers
November 4, 2017
A great short history of the characters and how they all came to be part of the family. This was a great stepping stone to the next books in the series.
Profile Image for Bette.
3,287 reviews24 followers
June 27, 2022
Great Introduction to a New MC Series! Fabulous Narration & Audible Listen🎧

Connelly’s Horde
Wheels & Hogs, Book 1
By: D.M. Earl
Narrated by: Gunnar Qualen, Jenna St. Claire

D.M. Earl’s first book in her new “Wheels & Hogs” series not only lays down the foundation for the new & different type of motorcycle club, but it is an introduction to the key players, starting with the lead character Des Connelly. Each character has their own story and is as interesting as the next and this novella sized book gives you a glimpse into each one. And just by this introduction, you can tell that each person in Connelly’s Horde is unique and very special and you just know their story is going to be special too. I am looking forward to learning more about these characters and how they all come together as a unit. D.M. Earl, thank you for this great introduction and for piquing my interest in this new world you created and the amazing characters in it. I hope the rest of the series comes out on audio soon.

🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Gunnar Qualen and Jenna St. Claire are talented narrators and versatile voice artists. They had a complete understanding of the characters they were portraying, gave each a voice that suited that character’s persona and was believable in every role they played. You could hear how much heart they put into their work as they capture all the character’s emotions and project them into their performance. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to and their narration enhances the story to another level. Thank you for another great listen.
Profile Image for Cindy Sprinkel.
219 reviews2 followers
July 6, 2022
At first I wasn't to sure about this novella but once the characters became introduced and it was shown how much of a bond and love they have the story line pulled me right in. now I need to know how it all goes and ends. this is a great start. Narrator's voices are great but I would like it to be more first person on the male lead. over all a wonderful start.
487 reviews4 followers
June 25, 2022
My Appetite Is Whetted, I want MORE!

By: D. M. Earl
Narrated by Gunnar Qualen, Jenna St. Claire

Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 06-24-22

Now THIS is the way to start a series! Connelly’s Horde is the novella that introduces us to those who make up the “family” that Desmond Connelly has created over the years at Wheels & Hogs Garage. They are truly a unique bunch of characters, very well developed characters of varying ages, some naive, some jaded, some secretive, some trying to recover from their past and some WAY to open and free with just about everything! No spoilers here, I’ll leave it to the listener to sort out “who’s who”, but let me tell you, Connelly’s Horde has really whetted MY appetite, really left me wanting more and really made me feel as if I’ve discovered a unique bunch of people that I want to know better, that I want to see happy and settled! The flow of this novella was perfect, the writing excellent, the narration fantastic, and the heat level, WOW! My interest was held from the opening lines, to the very last words. It is said, if you build it they will come, and D. M. Earl has built this one brilliantly! I can’t wait for the audio for each and every book in this series to come out! I want them all! Five fabulous well earned stars!
Profile Image for Twin Sisters Rockin' Book Reviews.
884 reviews93 followers
July 30, 2014
Overall Rating: 4 Rockin’ ★★★★

Des Connelly is an amazing man that loves deeply and cares for those that are fortunate to call him friend. He has always been a caregiver to those that need him. Des raised his brother and sisters from the young age of sixteen when both parents were killed. Mother, father, teacher, friend, brother and provider are just a few of the roles that he has filled. Des was fortunate to be taken in and trained by old man Leary at his automotive shop which allowed him to keep a roof over his siblings’ heads. As time passed Des was offered the garage and with Mr. Leary’s help he bought it and made it into a thriving business. This is really where all of the stories begin with Connelly’s Horde.

Each member of his crew came to Des at different times during the years of building the garage into a respected shop. Des found each of them in their time of need and pulled them into his business where they could find a place to heal. The skill that Des displayed when working on bikes or autos brought in people from many different walks of life. He was a friend to different MC’s and they called him brother.

This novella will introduce you to each of the crew and how they came to be with Des. It is a must read to prepare you for what is to come…an amazing series of stories that will pull you inside Connelly’s Horde.

Hero – Des Connelly: 4 stars
Heroine –Dee Dee: 4 stars
Steam: 4 stars
Plot: 4 stars
Cliffhanger: Yes

Would I recommend this book: Yes! This is a prequel to a new series by an amazing author and is used to introduce the reader to Connelly’s Horde or extended family.

Would I read other books by this author: Yes! I loved meeting all the characters that work or hang out at Des’ garage. Can’t wait to get up an personal with each one as Ms. Earl shares their stories.

***Received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review***

Connelly's Horde
D.M. Earl
Profile Image for Mandy Sawyer.
5,021 reviews41 followers
June 24, 2022
This is a good start to this series. With good characters and a strong storyline that I can see being gripping. Great performance.
Profile Image for Susan.
87 reviews
July 15, 2014
This review is from: Connelly's Horde: Novella (Wheels & Hogs Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I was lucky and given this as an ARC FOR A HONEST REVIEW, well I will say it is written with so much heart and emotions that at first I thought Des was this non feeling shut off man but as you will find that May very well not be true. I will say if you love some steamy hard core sex scenes you will love this Novella, it's completely smoking hot. I love that all characters are introduced and how and what they do for his company and life, it's a really nice switch to your typical story. Honestly I can't wait for more I want to know what will happen with Des and the business and especially what will happen with Dee Dee and their amazing chemistry. Thank you D.M. Earl for bringing a great read and I look toward to the continuation of what will be a epic story.
Profile Image for Pat.
1,374 reviews44 followers
July 26, 2014

This is an exciting novella introducing us to a new series about the life of men and women who love hot cars and even hotter motorcycles. Desmond Connolly is owner and operator of Connolly's Wheels and Hogs. Des worked himself up from a sweeper, to a master mechanic and all the scut jobs in between. In the process he has become friends and brothers with local MC Clubs and their members. His reputation is excellent and the rich and famous bring their wheels to him and his crew.

In this story, Des introduces us to members of his crew, his women and the huge changes that he is planning. Amazingly, these plans are working to save the life of one of their own. I enjoyed this quick read and I'm looking forward to the adventures of this motley crew of men and women, especially Des Connolly.

Pat Fordyce
20 reviews
November 5, 2014
Leaves you starving for more!!!

This book was a great introduction to the "horde". You learn about their current situation and how they got where they are! The dynamic of their relationships becomes clear and when the book is over you just want MORE!

I am definitely looking forward to the next books of this series! All of the characters are so intriguing that I found it hard to pick a favorite one. I liked them all equally and want to know all of their stories! Well,... okay, maybe I liked Des a little bit more...

Great start to the series!
Profile Image for Shanean.
169 reviews24 followers
July 18, 2015
I'm ready for a wild ride after this novella. Connelly's Horde is an awesome introduction to the Wheels & Hogs series. Narrated by the hot and sexy Des, you get a great introduction to each character and their secrets, drama, troubles and worries. But author D.M. Earl doesn't give to much away. I myself can't wait to meet the rest of the Horde in the books to come. Especially Doc and Fern. Their book will be my tear jerker.

So could you say I'm hooked. Yes!! I am so excited to have found another series to get lost in.
Profile Image for Sam.
3 reviews1 follower
Read
June 19, 2014
Great introduction to a series from new author D M Earl.

This novella introduces characters that will feature throughout a new series. definately the type of novella & series that will appeal to readers who enjoy books with strong characters, alphamales and who like storylines that centre around a 'family' of troubled individuals all brought together.

Looking forward to reading the rest of the series x
Profile Image for Elsie Pitt.
1,753 reviews13 followers
December 7, 2014
It was a great beginning to a really good new author who is just at the very beginning of her career. Oh and what a START this is......this sets up what is to come and offers up tidbits into the lives of these AMAZING people. Truly this author has something to offer everyone. This start to a new series is worth your time and investment it will leave you wanting more and looking to the author for news on when the next installment will be released. JUST WOW!!!
Profile Image for D.M. Earl.
Author 47 books369 followers
January 29, 2016
I wrote this Novella and love the story forming within this garage. This short Novella gives you the background on the main characters without disclosing too much information. Connelly's Horde has the right mix of intrigue, sex, character development. This gives you enough to want more from this series Wheels & Hogs.
Profile Image for Michelle from My Love Of  Books.
1 review2 followers
June 20, 2014
This is a great Novella. I like how the author introduced all the main characters in her Novella. Definitely the type of Novella & series that will appeal to readers who enjoy books with strong characters. I can't wait to read the series.
Profile Image for Renee.
19 reviews2 followers
July 2, 2014
I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy from the author and I loved this book. The characters are well developed & intertwined. D.M has a great series starting with this book. I am really looking forward to reading book 2.
1 review
June 3, 2014
excellent. can't wait to see what the characters do next.
Profile Image for Melissa.
98 reviews2 followers
June 5, 2016
Great story, great writing and a fabulous cover. I can't wait to read the next in the Wheels & Hogs series.

I won this book through goodreads.
Profile Image for Deb Blake.
40 reviews2 followers
January 2, 2015
I read Cadence Reflection 1st, so I didn't know a lot about Des, after reading Connelly's Horde, I can see that Des is a good guy, trying to take care of his adopted family.
Profile Image for Rebecca Austin.
3,150 reviews3 followers
October 27, 2017
Desmond Connelly owns Wheels & Hogs garage. He is extremely happy with the group of guys and ladies that he has working for him.

In this story the reader meets everyone in the garage and learn a little about Des's love life.

I liked meeting all of the different characters and I am really interested in getting to know them at a more personal level in each of their books. I do really hope the reader gets more Des as well.

I am hoping we get to see more between Dee Dee and Des as well as this one hinted at the beginning of something.

Wolf Youngblood sounds especially intriguning and I am really looking forward to learning more about him.

Gabriel "Doc" Murphy may have some heartache coming but I hope the guys in the garage can really help him out.

Cadence Power had a horrific past and I am curious to see how he recovers and is able to move on from everything.

Dee Dee has had to overcome so much in her own past and I looking forward to her getting her own happy ever after.

Looking forward to learning more!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews

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