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Standish Bay Romance #1
Blackjack
Cole Jackson spends fifteen years in prison for a murder he did not commit, the murder of his wife, Lindsey.His talent as a songwriter and an avid reader save him from the loneliness of the cold, dark and unforgiving prison walls. But as he joins the world of the free again, he struggles with his once again fame, because of his rock-n-roll band, of being a convicted killer and the fact that his self-esteem and self-respect were lost years ago. Prison will do that to you, not to mention drugs, alcohol and an unfaithful wife. He no longer has the drugs, the alcohol or the unfaithful wife. What he has is a tarnished reputation and the determination to find the true killer and restore his life.Shannon Gallagher's hard work as a writer has finally paid off. She believes her life is complete living in her dream home on the ocean until she meets Cole Jackson. She idolized him at sixteen, cried at twenty-one when he went to prison. Now at thirty-six she meets him and falls instantly in love. But as Cole gets closer to his wife's killer, he puts Shannon's life in danger. Can he expose the murderer and keep Shannon safe?
336 pages, Paperback
106 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Christine Donovan
29 books49 followersOnce Christine began penning her first novel, she hasn’t stopped writing. She juggles her time between writing indie books and writing for Dragonblade Publishing. She has four grown sons, three granddaughters, one cat, and one black lab puppy named Luna.
Her novels encompass several genres, including regency, contemporary and paranormal romance. Her favorite saying to describe her books is: “Romance that touches the heart, soothes the soul and feeds the mind.”
She lives on the southeast coast of Massachusetts, is a PAN member of RWA a member of Novelist, Inc and Rhode Island Romance Writers. She is a #1 Amazon International Bestselling Author.
Her novels encompass several genres, including regency, contemporary and paranormal romance. Her favorite saying to describe her books is: “Romance that touches the heart, soothes the soul and feeds the mind.”
She lives on the southeast coast of Massachusetts, is a PAN member of RWA a member of Novelist, Inc and Rhode Island Romance Writers. She is a #1 Amazon International Bestselling Author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 24, 2015
Christine Donovan is a new to me author. I love discovering new authors, especially ones that can write and deliver a good story. Right from the beginning I was hooked. The further I read, the more I was invested in Shannon and Cole. Wow, Cole is sexy as sin but with a heart of gold. The way that he just fit in and respected Shannon's son, Cameron was nice.
The chemistry that Shannon and Cole shared was real. Also, it was grown up. I had to point this out because when Shannon first met Cole, she was giddy like a school girl who's dream of meeting her crush let her speechless.
As much as I did really enjoy this book, I did feel that the part regarding the truth about the death of Cole's wife was painfully drawn out. The mystery surrounding it did not come out until the last few chapters and it seemed rushed. This book did have a happy ending. I got to read a brief excerpt in the back of this book for book two and I liked what I read in this book to want to read the next one.
The chemistry that Shannon and Cole shared was real. Also, it was grown up. I had to point this out because when Shannon first met Cole, she was giddy like a school girl who's dream of meeting her crush let her speechless.
As much as I did really enjoy this book, I did feel that the part regarding the truth about the death of Cole's wife was painfully drawn out. The mystery surrounding it did not come out until the last few chapters and it seemed rushed. This book did have a happy ending. I got to read a brief excerpt in the back of this book for book two and I liked what I read in this book to want to read the next one.
August 27, 2015
This was an all around good book. Cole is a bad guy. Well, he is a good guy that got a bad deal. He went to prison for 15 years for a murder he didn't commit and now that he is out he is going to find out who really did. Shannon loved Cole when they met, but as they get closer, so does the danger.
I was expecting a simple romance, and while this book had romance, it had other elements as well. The character interactions were great. I liked that they were well developed and involved. There was a good mix of serious and humor so it wasn't completely suspenseful, but the characters were realistic. I loved the chemistry between Shannon and Cole. I also really liked how Cole treated Shannon. I really liked the story and setting and want to definitely read more from this author!
4/5 for this one and I really expect great things from this author's next work.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book (via PUYB). I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
I was expecting a simple romance, and while this book had romance, it had other elements as well. The character interactions were great. I liked that they were well developed and involved. There was a good mix of serious and humor so it wasn't completely suspenseful, but the characters were realistic. I loved the chemistry between Shannon and Cole. I also really liked how Cole treated Shannon. I really liked the story and setting and want to definitely read more from this author!
4/5 for this one and I really expect great things from this author's next work.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book (via PUYB). I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
February 6, 2020
this book was amazing! sad in parts but i loved it! he spent years in prison for a crime he didnt commit. now hes free and wants to resume his music. its where he meets her. things heat up but now her life is in danger. read to find out what happens.
April 6, 2015
I just simply loved it. I enjoy the writing style of the author and was very engrossed with the story. absolutely wonderful
May 21, 2021
Cole Jackson
Shannon Gallagher
Cole -was the lead singer/guitar player for Blackjack and is also a ex-con who just recently got out after 15 years in prison for killing his wife, even though he was innocent. Shannon, is a best selling author, and who Cole has read all her books. Shannon is also a big Blackjack fan and so is her son Cameron, who also is very talented as a musician. Cole and Shannon meet when AJ invites her to the hotel room that the band is staying until the concert. They immediately have chemistry. This was a very good book. I liked Cole’s resiliency and willingness to put himself out in the public eye again after all the time he spent in prison. I liked Shannon because she wanted to believe he was innocent and wanted to clear his name. I also liked her relationship with her son Cameron. Cameron was a good secondary character. I thought the introduction of Shannon’s family was pertinent to the story and a nice way to set up the next books. I would read more in the series. This book could be read as a stand alone book.
Shannon Gallagher
Cole -was the lead singer/guitar player for Blackjack and is also a ex-con who just recently got out after 15 years in prison for killing his wife, even though he was innocent. Shannon, is a best selling author, and who Cole has read all her books. Shannon is also a big Blackjack fan and so is her son Cameron, who also is very talented as a musician. Cole and Shannon meet when AJ invites her to the hotel room that the band is staying until the concert. They immediately have chemistry. This was a very good book. I liked Cole’s resiliency and willingness to put himself out in the public eye again after all the time he spent in prison. I liked Shannon because she wanted to believe he was innocent and wanted to clear his name. I also liked her relationship with her son Cameron. Cameron was a good secondary character. I thought the introduction of Shannon’s family was pertinent to the story and a nice way to set up the next books. I would read more in the series. This book could be read as a stand alone book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2022
Cole Jackson is a rock star who went to prison for a murder he didn’t commit. Reading books by author Shannon Gallagher got him through his days. Cole and Shannon meet and their story begins.
I really enjoyed this book! I visualized what was going on immediately and got lost in the story. I appreciated how this was a love story with characters in their 30’s too! What made it really enjoyable was the many conflicts taking place throughout the book at once. (If everything was smooth sailing what a boring book it would be.) Donovan knows how to keep you engaged until the very last page.
If you’re looking for a contemporary romance book to read, pick up Cole by Christine Donovan today! (It’s book 1 in A Standish Bay Romance series).
I really enjoyed this book! I visualized what was going on immediately and got lost in the story. I appreciated how this was a love story with characters in their 30’s too! What made it really enjoyable was the many conflicts taking place throughout the book at once. (If everything was smooth sailing what a boring book it would be.) Donovan knows how to keep you engaged until the very last page.
If you’re looking for a contemporary romance book to read, pick up Cole by Christine Donovan today! (It’s book 1 in A Standish Bay Romance series).
August 16, 2021
Wow
This was an excellent story. I cried in parts and laughed in few other(John's son using the toilet plunger on his face), priceless. Cole went through to much bad before the good came. Shannon got lucky to have her favorite musician fall in love with her. The only disappointment I had was not fully understanding why Wade hated Cole so much. I think that could have been better explained. Otherwise great book. Thank you, I enjoyed it.
This was an excellent story. I cried in parts and laughed in few other(John's son using the toilet plunger on his face), priceless. Cole went through to much bad before the good came. Shannon got lucky to have her favorite musician fall in love with her. The only disappointment I had was not fully understanding why Wade hated Cole so much. I think that could have been better explained. Otherwise great book. Thank you, I enjoyed it.
October 21, 2024
Highly Emotional
This book hooked me from the start. There were times when I was laughing out loud and others when my heart raced with fear. This book had me riding an emotional roller coaster, crying happy tears and tears of sadness. It's definitely a must-read.
This book hooked me from the start. There were times when I was laughing out loud and others when my heart raced with fear. This book had me riding an emotional roller coaster, crying happy tears and tears of sadness. It's definitely a must-read.
September 19, 2023
Good mystery
But so sad. A man accused and sentenced for something he didn't do. I hated the loss of his friend it made me not want to read this book again. Happy ending.
But so sad. A man accused and sentenced for something he didn't do. I hated the loss of his friend it made me not want to read this book again. Happy ending.
June 22, 2025
Great story , definitely can recommend it.
February 18, 2020
Cole Jackson spent the last 15 years in prison for a murder he didn't commit, Lindsey, his wife's murder, all because he was in a constant state of being high and drunk back then. He knows he didn't kill his wife but he ended up being found guilty and now he has to live with the stigma of that while trying to get his singing/songwriting career back on track. Prison took away any confidence he once had to the point of feeling uncomfortable in crowds of people outside of his small circle. Then he meets Shannon Gallagher, his favorite author of the books that he read while in prison, and her son Cameron. Shannon met AJ, his band mate and best friend, at her book signing and he ends up bringing her and her son to the hotel room to meet Cole personally. It's electric when their eyes meet. But will this new romance end in another murder?
This is another book that was part of the Facebook Winter Games Reader Challenge. Also another book that if I could give more than 5 stars I would. It took me, in total, all of 9 hours to read this book from start to finish. I'm not sure if that is fast or slow because it was over a few days and I know I am not a fast reader. The book was a steady climb that never stopped and never let up. I have stated in previous posts how I love a book that makes you feel everything going on in it, all the emotions of the scenes. Not only does this book do that but since one of the main characters is an author, this is the passage that made me laugh because this book has succeeded in doing exactly that.
"Shannon always strived to make her readers feel connected to her characters and the story of their lives. She wanted them to forget they were reading a book and just become part of the story itself".
I laughed, I cried (a lot in some parts), I got angry, I was nervous and I was hopeful all right along with the characters; I even shouted once about Shannon's ex-husband (and scared my daughter who happened to be sitting next to me). It was just so well written and everything just moved so easily and smoothly that I wasn't sure if I had really made any progress while reading it. In actuality I was in a time suck because I didn't realize that time was moving while I was reading. I was a little confused when I had realized that I was almost 200 pages further along from where I had started and it was about 4 hours later. Now there are two other books in this series, both ,of which, the characters were already introduced in this first one; the second book is Mitch and the third is Bridget. I am definitely looking forward to reading those in the near future as I am more than sure that they will be just as good as this first one.
This is another book that was part of the Facebook Winter Games Reader Challenge. Also another book that if I could give more than 5 stars I would. It took me, in total, all of 9 hours to read this book from start to finish. I'm not sure if that is fast or slow because it was over a few days and I know I am not a fast reader. The book was a steady climb that never stopped and never let up. I have stated in previous posts how I love a book that makes you feel everything going on in it, all the emotions of the scenes. Not only does this book do that but since one of the main characters is an author, this is the passage that made me laugh because this book has succeeded in doing exactly that.
"Shannon always strived to make her readers feel connected to her characters and the story of their lives. She wanted them to forget they were reading a book and just become part of the story itself".
I laughed, I cried (a lot in some parts), I got angry, I was nervous and I was hopeful all right along with the characters; I even shouted once about Shannon's ex-husband (and scared my daughter who happened to be sitting next to me). It was just so well written and everything just moved so easily and smoothly that I wasn't sure if I had really made any progress while reading it. In actuality I was in a time suck because I didn't realize that time was moving while I was reading. I was a little confused when I had realized that I was almost 200 pages further along from where I had started and it was about 4 hours later. Now there are two other books in this series, both ,of which, the characters were already introduced in this first one; the second book is Mitch and the third is Bridget. I am definitely looking forward to reading those in the near future as I am more than sure that they will be just as good as this first one.
February 23, 2020
Cole: A Rock Star Story
(A Standish Bay Romance Book 1)
by Christine Donovan
Cole: A Rock Star Story, is an energizing story about finding and fighting for love, with the intrigue in the twists and turns that keeps the story moving and engaging and keeping the reader’s attention the from beginning to the end. A mesmerizing romance that is complicated by murder, tears at the readers heart and will have the reader smiling and crying for the characters in the story.
Ms. Christine Donovan delivers a well written, non-traditional romance story with a twist, by making it into a murder mystery. This author has created characters that are well-defined and with a strong chemistry, that the readers cannot help but to fall in love with the characters. Readers can identify with the characters and the real-life issues getting in the way; issues that the readers can relate with. The authors writing style gives the reader a viewpoint of her characters, well done.
A great story that I enjoyed reading and I love the characters with a great description of the stories setting and the humor, hits this book out of the park. An extremely satisfying read, with a happy ending. Christine Donovan is a new to me author; I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. An awesome job Ms. Christine receiving 5-stars.
(A Standish Bay Romance Book 1)
by Christine Donovan
Cole: A Rock Star Story, is an energizing story about finding and fighting for love, with the intrigue in the twists and turns that keeps the story moving and engaging and keeping the reader’s attention the from beginning to the end. A mesmerizing romance that is complicated by murder, tears at the readers heart and will have the reader smiling and crying for the characters in the story.
Ms. Christine Donovan delivers a well written, non-traditional romance story with a twist, by making it into a murder mystery. This author has created characters that are well-defined and with a strong chemistry, that the readers cannot help but to fall in love with the characters. Readers can identify with the characters and the real-life issues getting in the way; issues that the readers can relate with. The authors writing style gives the reader a viewpoint of her characters, well done.
A great story that I enjoyed reading and I love the characters with a great description of the stories setting and the humor, hits this book out of the park. An extremely satisfying read, with a happy ending. Christine Donovan is a new to me author; I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. An awesome job Ms. Christine receiving 5-stars.
March 2, 2020
One night, Cole Jackson arrives at the hottest, drunk and high, and finds his wife dead, stabbed to death.
15 years later: Cole has just been released from prison, incarcerated for 2nd degree murder. He reunited with his band and was hoping for a comeback. What would they see? A killer? There was nothing like going to jail for something you didn’t do. He was just glad to be playing again.
Shannon is a successful author. Cole often read her books in jail and was a fan. Meanwhile, Shannon had always harbored teen fantasies of her favorite singer, Cole. She never even dreamed that she would meet him in person. And, boy, did he look even better now. She never believed the hype, that he killed his wife.
As the two get closer—emotionally and physically—they make a mission: she would prove his innocence and he would find his cheating wife’s real killer.
I thought this was overall enjoyable, but there was some lag here and there. The suspense was not as heightened as it should’ve been, even though there were some enticing parts like the random attack on Shannon. The physical chemistry between the characters is good, but it does take a while to get there with endless foreplay and flirtation.
15 years later: Cole has just been released from prison, incarcerated for 2nd degree murder. He reunited with his band and was hoping for a comeback. What would they see? A killer? There was nothing like going to jail for something you didn’t do. He was just glad to be playing again.
Shannon is a successful author. Cole often read her books in jail and was a fan. Meanwhile, Shannon had always harbored teen fantasies of her favorite singer, Cole. She never even dreamed that she would meet him in person. And, boy, did he look even better now. She never believed the hype, that he killed his wife.
As the two get closer—emotionally and physically—they make a mission: she would prove his innocence and he would find his cheating wife’s real killer.
I thought this was overall enjoyable, but there was some lag here and there. The suspense was not as heightened as it should’ve been, even though there were some enticing parts like the random attack on Shannon. The physical chemistry between the characters is good, but it does take a while to get there with endless foreplay and flirtation.
February 12, 2020
Not your traditional rockstar romance
Christine Donovan delivers a non-traditional rockstar romance by taking the traditionally angsty musician and amping it up with a murder mystery. Cole, recently paroled after 15 years in prison after being unjustly convicted for killing his wife, meets writer and divorced mother Shannon and it’s insta-love. In the meantime, this shy man, while reviving his music career, tries to discover who really killed his wife while he tries to keep Shannon safe. Twists and turns keep this story moving. Donovan has created characters you can sympathize with and an HEA worthy of a good book.
Christine Donovan delivers a non-traditional rockstar romance by taking the traditionally angsty musician and amping it up with a murder mystery. Cole, recently paroled after 15 years in prison after being unjustly convicted for killing his wife, meets writer and divorced mother Shannon and it’s insta-love. In the meantime, this shy man, while reviving his music career, tries to discover who really killed his wife while he tries to keep Shannon safe. Twists and turns keep this story moving. Donovan has created characters you can sympathize with and an HEA worthy of a good book.
September 3, 2016
This is a mystery romance story. Shannon is a writer of mystery romance novels who falls in love with a singer who was accused of killing his wife and jailed for 15 years. Her ex-husband dislikes the man but her son likes the fact that he could learn music from him. Many plot twists occur before the end of the story. Many of these changes are quick changes of opinion from hate to like to completely relying on. I also ran into many typos of spelling or grammar. But generally I enjoyed this story.
February 8, 2020
Rock star Cole Jackson is a rock star and a former convict. He served 15 years for the murder of his wife. He maintained his innocence but the system worked against him. He is working to put his lfe back together when he mets one of his favorite authors, Shaanon Gallagher. The connection is instant for both of them. Their romance is complicated by murder, jealousy, a killer, guilt, their careers, family interference and the relentless press. Numerous twist and turns makes this an exciting read of finding and fighting for love.
February 14, 2020
I loved it! This was a wonderful insta-love story, that grew as it went on. Cole and Shannon's connection was strong from the start, but only grew as the story went on. I loved the different perspectives throughout the book, and not just from the main characters. For me it all added to it, and the author did it in a way, that it flowed smoothly for me, not being confusing at all. The chemistry was hot, the love strong, and so was the heartache that comes along with those major bumps in life's road. I look forward to checking out more by this author.
October 6, 2016
Perfect ending to a great story!
This was great! There is love, suspense, and several heart stopping moments. Read this in one day, could not stop until the end. Felt like I was right there with the characters and so wanted to help the main character, Shannon. Must read if you enjoy a good suspense romance.
This was great! There is love, suspense, and several heart stopping moments. Read this in one day, could not stop until the end. Felt like I was right there with the characters and so wanted to help the main character, Shannon. Must read if you enjoy a good suspense romance.
May 10, 2017
Nice easy read
Loved the couple. Loved Shannon's, Cole's and Cameron's personality. It was a little too simplistic with its instant romance and a lot was left unexplained as to just how Cole ended up in prison for a crime that lacked evidence. While the ending wasn't entirely predictable, the Who done it was expected.
Loved the couple. Loved Shannon's, Cole's and Cameron's personality. It was a little too simplistic with its instant romance and a lot was left unexplained as to just how Cole ended up in prison for a crime that lacked evidence. While the ending wasn't entirely predictable, the Who done it was expected.
May 8, 2018
The truth!
Wow! You are a successful author who then gets introduced by a successful songwriter/artist. Her tenage son is a budding talented songwriter as well. But there is a jealous exlover who has killed and the songwriter was accused and sent to prison, for fifteen years for a crime he didnt commit.
Wow! You are a successful author who then gets introduced by a successful songwriter/artist. Her tenage son is a budding talented songwriter as well. But there is a jealous exlover who has killed and the songwriter was accused and sent to prison, for fifteen years for a crime he didnt commit.
February 23, 2020
Loved it !!
This story had it all , suspense , murder , grief and love . Cole the Rock Star and Shannon the famous Author fall in love but there’s so many roadblocks that keep getting in the way . The storyline keeps you guessing and wanting more , so well written and the ending was PERFECT !! Loved this story ❤️
This story had it all , suspense , murder , grief and love . Cole the Rock Star and Shannon the famous Author fall in love but there’s so many roadblocks that keep getting in the way . The storyline keeps you guessing and wanting more , so well written and the ending was PERFECT !! Loved this story ❤️
September 11, 2016
Great read lots of drama and excitement for the chractures in this book maybe dreams really can come true a very enjoyable read
I would recommend this book to my friends and family to read on a long day with nothing else to do once you start it you don't want to up it down
I would recommend this book to my friends and family to read on a long day with nothing else to do once you start it you don't want to up it down
September 8, 2017
Sweet
This was very unexpected. It's a very sweet romance. The hero could have gone either way. He could have been bitter, but chose to love again. I can recommend this book to romance lovers who loves a happy ending, albeit some twists and murder in the mix
This was very unexpected. It's a very sweet romance. The hero could have gone either way. He could have been bitter, but chose to love again. I can recommend this book to romance lovers who loves a happy ending, albeit some twists and murder in the mix
September 3, 2018
Wonderful love story!
I would give more stars if I could! This is an absolutely terrific story from beginning to end. Full of suspense and packed with emotion! Great characters! I definitely recommend it!
I would give more stars if I could! This is an absolutely terrific story from beginning to end. Full of suspense and packed with emotion! Great characters! I definitely recommend it!
February 4, 2020
Is he really a bad boy?
Is he truly a bad boy? Id she really a goody-goody?
Interesting roller coaster Romance that has all the Thrills of action, with a heartache of love and rediscovery.
Is he truly a bad boy? Id she really a goody-goody?
Interesting roller coaster Romance that has all the Thrills of action, with a heartache of love and rediscovery.
September 12, 2016
The book you feel in your Heart
Christine Donovan,your writing is from the first chapter enchanting! The emotions are felt from beginning to end.I cannot wait to read the next Book.
Christine Donovan,your writing is from the first chapter enchanting! The emotions are felt from beginning to end.I cannot wait to read the next Book.
March 31, 2017
Awesome
This book was awesome. It made me laugh an cry. I can't wait to read the others. I will read more book by her.
This book was awesome. It made me laugh an cry. I can't wait to read the others. I will read more book by her.
Want to read
August 1, 2020💝FREE on Amazon today (6/21/2018)!💝 (under the title "Cole")
January 13, 2019
It is a great book to read
August 8, 2019
Cole
Enjoyed this book very much. It is a long book, but I couldn't put it down. The characters are interesting and the storyline is compelling.
Enjoyed this book very much. It is a long book, but I couldn't put it down. The characters are interesting and the storyline is compelling.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews