Kimmy Loves to Read: Love to the Rescue Series

Showing posts with label Love to the Rescue Series. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

5 Star Review: Only You (Love to the Rescue #3.5) by Rachel Lacey

"He was her first. But will he be her last?"

Amy Jameson has one priority these days: her eight-year-old autistic son. Everything else will just have to wait, including her love life. When she agrees to let a friend hold her wedding in Amy's backyard, she may have bitten off more than she can chew, especially when the man who shows up to help her get the place ready is none other than the only man she's ever loved, Luke Benson.

Luke has always considered Amy "the one that got away." He loved her and lost her back in high school, but when he returns to his hometown of Dogwood, North Carolina, for a friend's wedding, he finds himself falling right back into her arms. He walked away once and broke her heart, but he wants to prove that he's a different man now, a better man, the kind of man who will love her forever.

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My Review

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Luke and Amy were high school sweethearts, but broke up after graduation. It has been years since they have seen each other, but when Luke returns to town for a friend's wedding, a wedding that they are both in, they come face to face. A lot has changed in the years they have been apart. Luke is now a successful doctor and Amy's top priority in her life is her 8 year old son Noah. Noah is autistic and depends on his daily routines and the unknown can stress him out a great deal. Allowing Luke into their life was a big risk, but one that was definitely worth it.

I loved Luke and Amy as a couple. They were able to fall back into their relationship so easily because there was still so much love between them. And you couldn't help but cheer for them. I especially loved how Luke was able to step in and not only interact with Noah, but also become such an integral part of the boy's life in such a short amount of time. He understood Noah on a level that Amy was not expecting, but that just made him so much more amazing.

Because that's what Luke was...amazing. From the moment Luke came back into Amy's life he did everything he could to let her know that he was sorry for the way things ended all those years ago. And once he realized he wanted a life with her and Noah, he did everything he could to convince her that they belonged together. Even Noah picked up on how great he was:

“Mr. Luke will be here this weekend for the wedding, right?” Noah asked.

“Yes, he will. He’s good friends with Mr. Joe.” Amy wondered what prompted that question. Was Noah tired of having Luke at their house all the time?

“I think Mr. Luke would be a good dad,” he said.

She stared at her son. “What makes you say that?”

“I hear other kids at school talking about their dads,” he said. “And the ones who like their dads have fun dads that play with them, like Mr. Luke does with me.”

She had absolutely no idea what to do with that information. “I’m sure Mr. Luke would be a great dad.”

“If you married him, would he be my dad?” Noah looked up at her, making rare eye contact.

She pressed a hand to her chest. “If I got married, that person would be your stepdad. But I don’t have any plans to get married, Noah. Mr. Luke and I are just friends.”

“I know,” Noah said as he got up from the table.

Amy watched as he went into the living room and started queuing up the latest episode of Brick Tricks. What in the world was that about? Was he saying that he wanted her to get married? To Luke? Or was he worried that it might happen? With a sigh, she picked up her cell phone and called her brother.

I just loved this novella so much!! For such a short book, there were so many wonderful moments and it brought ALL the warm and fuzzies. And having read For Keeps and really loving Amy, I was glad that she got her happily ever after.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

4 1/2 Star Review: Ever After (Love to the Rescue #3) by Rachel Lacey

CAUGHT IN THE ACT

Olivia Bennett is not having a happy birthday. Instead of blowing out her twenty-nine candles, she's stuck in jail, caught red-handed in a graffiti incident that (perhaps) involved one too many strawberry margaritas. Worst idea ever. The only bright side is that she ended up in the strong arms of the most gorgeous lawman she's ever seen.

Pete Sampson (aka Deputy Hot Stuff) faces intense pressure from the sheriff to find out who's behind a string of vandalisms. And after her spray-painting spree, Olivia is suspect number one. Still, Pete can't stop thinking about her.Wanting her. Now he's torn between his duty and his overpowering desire for the vivacious waitress. But he may have to bend the rules because true love is more important than the letter of the law . . .

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My Review

I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I knew I was going to like this book from the first scene. Olivia gets arrested by Pete (aka Deputy Hot Stuff) after being caught spray painting Halverson's Foods' chicken processing plant. Talk about a meet cute! Sure, it seemed like a good idea at the time (of course alcohol was involved), but Olivia is left to take the fall when she is abandoned by her friends. She takes her punishment in stride, but does not give up her quest to take down Halverson's Foods.

As soon as Pete met Olivia, he knew that she was different. She wasn't your typical perp and despite the fact that she was in serious trouble, she didn't back down from what she believed in. Unfortunately for Olivia, that means backlash from Halverson employees that puts her in some precarious positions.

Enter Deputy Hot Stuff...again. Whether it is coming to her rescue when those employees get a little too close for comfort or learning how to meditate with her, he can't seem to stay away. And even though being with her is bad for the promotion he is up for, he doesn't care.

I loved Pete. He was just the sweetest...a tough cop with a soft heart towards animals (*SWOON*) and pretty girls in distress. Come on! On paper, Pete and Olivia don't make sense, but they are the definition of "opposites attract" and quite happy together. They have fantastic chemistry and have fun when they are together. Unfortunately, like most relationships, they face some stumbling blocks along the way and their budding relationship is put to the test.

This is a delightful book and a great addition to the series. We get a glimpse of characters from the past two books as well as some new four legged friends that make this series so great.

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

LAUNCH DAY BLITZ: Ever After (Love to the Rescue #3) by Rachel Lacey

EVER AFTER by Rachel Lacey (August 25, 2015; Forever Mass Market; Love to the Rescue #3)

CAUGHT IN THE ACT

Olivia Bennett is not having a happy birthday. Instead of blowing out her twenty-nine candles, she's stuck in jail, caught red-handed in a graffiti incident that (perhaps) involved one too many strawberry margaritas. Worst idea ever. The only bright side is that she ended up in the strong arms of the most gorgeous lawman she's ever seen.

Pete Sampson (aka Deputy Hot Stuff) faces intense pressure from the sheriff to find out who's behind a string of vandalisms. And after her spray-painting spree, Olivia is suspect number one. Still, Pete can't stop thinking about her.Wanting her. Now he's torn between his duty and his overpowering desire for the vivacious waitress. But he may have to bend the rules because true love is more important than the letter of the law . . .

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EXCERPT

“They’ve defaced your car twice and hassled you in person all in a matter of days. I’d say it’s likely you haven’t seen the end of them, not unless you’re planning to do as they asked and back off your campaign against Halverson Foods.”

Her chin went up again. “Not a chance.”

A smile tugged at the corner of his lips. “That’s what I thought. The sheriff’s office is just a few blocks away. You look like you’re turning into a popsicle, so why don’t I drive us over and then I’ll bring you back here afterward and see you home.”

She cleared her throat. “See me home?”

He reached out to tuck a strand of shiny blond hair behind her ear. “I’ll follow you in my SUV and keep right on driving once I see that you’re home safely with no unwelcome visitors hanging around.”

“That’s awfully chivalrous of you,” she said.

They were alone in the parking lot and standing way too close for any good purpose.

“Just doin’ my job.” Although his job had nothing to do with the way he felt about her right then. He shoved his hands into the pockets of his jeans, trying to keep his mind off the way the street lamps reflected like little half-moons in her eyes or her flowery scent that toyed with his senses and hijacked his self-control.

“You’re not even on duty right now, and I’ve taken up your whole evening. I don’t think that’s in your job description. Thank you.” She went up on her toes and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. Instinctively, he turned his head so that her lips met his. She sucked in a breath, her eyes wide. He’d startled her, taken a friendly gesture too far.

“Sorry,” he whispered against her lips.

“Don’t be,” she said and kissed him back.

He drank in her scent and the feel of her lips on his. He wanted to taste every inch of her, more than he wanted his next breath, but not here, not now. Certainly not right before he marched her into the sheriff’s office to give her official report.

He rested his forehead against hers. “I didn’t mean to do that.”

She laughed, and the sound loosened something deep inside his chest. “But I’m glad you did.”

“I can’t do this with you right now, not while I’m working your case—your other case.” He held her hands in his.

“Well that’s a bummer. Is it against the rules to date a criminal?”

He heard the laughter in her voice. “No, but as your arresting officer, it’s against the rules to become involved with you before your court date.”

“That’s only three weeks away.”

“Olivia.” He lifted her hands to his chest. “It’s not that simple. I’m about to take your official statement about what happened here in the parking lot earlier. It’s unethical in so many ways to even contemplate what you’re thinking about right now.”

She slid her hands around his neck and pressed her cheek to his. “Fine. I get it. But you know, if I get off without a criminal record next month, maybe give me a call?”

He laughed, pulling her closer against him. “Maybe.”

FOR KEEPS by Rachel Lacey (January 27, 2015; Forever Mass Market; Love to the Rescue #2)

A SUMMER FLING . . . OR SOMETHING MORE?

Merry Atwater would do just about anything to save her dog rescue - even if it means working with the most stubborn man on the planet. It's hard to avoid the sparks that fly with TJ Jameson, the ruggedly sexy cowboy in charge of the children's camp where she's just taken an animal therapy job. But commitment is not Merry's style, and TJ clearly wants more than just a roll in the hay.

TJ Jameson isn't looking for anything complicated-just a peaceful life on his family's ranch with a wife and kids. "No-strings" Merry Atwater doesn't fit that bill, no matter how irresistible she is. But when he sees how Merry gets through to his autistic nephew and the other kids at Camp Blue Sky, TJ's a goner. If he doesn't give in to the now, he might just lose his shot at forever . . .

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UNLEASHED by Rachel Lacey (October 28, 2014; Forever Mass Market; Love to the Rescue #1)

What happens when you find the right one at the wrong time?

Cara Medlen has a serious case of animal attraction. And it's not because of all the foster dogs she's rescued. She's got it bad for her incredibly sexy neighbor. Her one rule: Don't get attached. It's served her well with the dogs she's given to good homes and the children she's nannied. Yet the temptation of Matt's sexy smile might just convince her that some rules are made to be broken.

Matt Dumont doesn't need his skills as a private investigator to detect disaster on the horizon. Cara is everything he thought he'd never find-gorgeous, funny, and caring. But there's no way he can start a relationship just as he's about to move to another state. Talk about bad timing. As their attraction sizzles too hot to deny, they'll have to make a decision: forget the consequences and let loose, or forget each other and let go...

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Rachel Lacey lives in North Carolina, with her husband, son, and their own rescued pup. She volunteers her spare time with Carolina Boxer Rescue and truly has a passion for helping our furry friends. She is a member of the Romance Writers of America as well as her local Heart of Carolina RWA chapter.

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Tuesday, January 27, 2015

4 Star Review: For Keeps (Love to the Rescue #2) by Rachel Lacey

A SUMMER FLING . . . OR SOMETHING MORE?

Merry Atwater would do just about anything to save her dog rescue - even if it means working with the most stubborn man on the planet. It's hard to avoid the sparks that fly with TJ Jameson, the ruggedly sexy cowboy in charge of the children's camp where she's just taken an animal therapy job. But commitment is not Merry's style, and TJ clearly wants more than just a roll in the hay.

TJ Jameson isn't looking for anything complicated-just a peaceful life on his family's ranch with a wife and kids. "No-strings" Merry Atwater doesn't fit that bill, no matter how irresistible she is. But when he sees how Merry gets through to his autistic nephew and the other kids at Camp Blue Sky, TJ's a goner. If he doesn't give in to the now, he might just lose his shot at forever . . .

My Review

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This book made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I enjoyed everything about it. It's a sweet story with great characters. And who wouldn't want a guy like TJ? He's a quiet, handsome COWBOY who has started a camp for kids with disabilities. Yes, he wants to do his part in helping these kids, but mostly he just wants to connect with his autistic nephew. Can you say swoon worthy?

And I want to be BFFs with Merry...everyone can use a friend like her. She has a heart of gold and despite her dog rescue being on the brink of bankruptcy and working as a full time pediatric nurse, she refuses to give up. She gets the chance to work at TJ's summer camp and she takes it. Sure she needs the money and it's a great opportunity, but I can't really blame her. I mean look at what she gets to work with!

"She’d never been a big fan of cowboys, but this guy was seriously sexy. His dark hair was mostly hidden by the hat, which shadowed his face, hiding the exact shade of the brown eyes currently locked on hers. He wore a crisp, blue T-shirt tucked into his jeans, filled to perfection by strong, muscled man.

He looked like he belonged on the cover of a magazine for western wear. Good gracious, he was gorgeous. And clearly not Tracy Jameson."

"Merry sucked in a breath. So Tracy Jameson was a guy. And not just any guy, but a strappingly handsome cowboy oozing testosterone from every pore. Summer camp had just gotten much hotter, in a completely new way."

Merry & TJ are definitely attracted to each other. They share a kiss, but TJ makes it very clear that he is looking for a wife, not a one night stand, which is what Merry wants. So they basically spend the first half of the book circling each other before they FINALLY give in to their desires. Thanks god. And the payoff is HOT.

Despite the fact that they want different things, Merry and TJ continue seeing each other. They fall into a comfortable relationship, both at the camp and personally. Merry forms a wonderful bond with TJ's nephew, which unfortunately causes some trouble between her and TJ. She is also holding on to a secret that is causing her to hold back on her true feelings. When things come to light both Merry and TJ will have to learn to move on and accept the feelings they have for each other.
This is the second book in the series and I have not read the first one, but I will be going back to read it. Merry's best friend Cara is the heroine in that and we get a little bit of Cara in this book. I instantly liked her so I can't wait to go back and read her story.

Amazon buy link: http://amzn.com/B00K5UNVD8

BLOG TOUR & GIVEAWAY: For Keeps (Love to the Rescue #2) by Rachel Lacey

About FOR KEEPS

A SUMMER FLING . . . OR SOMETHING MORE?

Merry Atwater would do just about anything to save her dog rescue - even if it means working with the most stubborn man on the planet. It's hard to avoid the sparks that fly with TJ Jameson, the ruggedly sexy cowboy in charge of the children's camp where she's just taken an animal therapy job. But commitment is not Merry's style, and TJ clearly wants more than just a roll in the hay. TJ Jameson isn't looking for anything complicated-just a peaceful life on his family's ranch with a wife and kids.

"No-strings" Merry Atwater doesn't fit that bill, no matter how irresistible she is. But when he sees how Merry gets through to his autistic nephew and the other kids at Camp Blue Sky, TJ's a goner. If he doesn't give in to the now, he might just lose his shot at forever . . .

Excerpt

His expression heated until his eyes practically burned her.

She nibbled her bottom lip. "I should, uh, I should go."

"It's late," he said, his voice like gravel. It tickled all her sweet spots.

She stared at his hands, those big calloused fingers. Damn, but she wanted to feel them on her skin. Like, now.

"Really late." She took a step, but her feet accidentally carried her toward T.J., not the door.

He sucked in an audible breath, his eyes scorching hers. "I thought you were going."

"So did I." But fuck it. If she was going to be in his house in the middle of the night in her underwear, she might as well give him a kiss goodnight.

She'd never been known for her self-control, after all.

He watched her, not moving a muscle, as if he'd become rooted to the floor.

She put her palms on his biceps and pressed her lips to his. Just a quick kiss to test the waters, because they did have to work together for the next month.

His scent wrapped around her, filled her lungs, and stole her sanity. She lingered for a moment, her lips on his, so soft, so warm. Just enough to make her want more. So much more.

Her body pulsed with it.

She was about to pull back and tell him goodnight when his arms slid around her waist, securing her against the firm column of his body, and oh God, she was a goner.

"What was that?" he whispered against her lips.

She slid her hands up to encircle his neck. "A goodnight kiss."

"And why would you do something like that?" His voice vibrated through her.

"Because I wanted to." Their bodies were pressed together, and though he hadn't kissed her back, he wanted to. She felt the evidence pressed against her belly.

"Bad idea," he growled, his lips still touching hers, teasing, tempting.

"Oh, yeah?" She could hardly breathe. Every nerve tingled with awareness, desperate for his touch, his kiss. More. More of everything.

Her heart throbbed in her chest.

T.J.'s eyes smoldered into hers, his pupils blown with lust. His body vibrated with tension, his arms like steel bands around her. "Yeah."

"Then send me home." She wiggled in his arms, pressing into his erection, tempting him, willing him to kiss her back. Just for tonight.

She needed to be kissed. She needed to feel.

And he could make her...

His lips crushed hers, taking her so suddenly, so thoroughly, that she didn't have time to draw a breath. She heard herself groan, felt the desire inside her explode into something so completely out of control it almost frightened her.

Her back slammed into the wall, and her legs wrapped around his waist. His tongue plunged into her mouth, gliding against hers in a rhythm so perfect she shuddered in his arms. He lifted her hips, grinding himself against her until her eyes rolled back in her head, and...

Holy shit, holy shit.

She must have lost her mind. Her body burned, quaked, shook for him, and he felt so fucking good. He tasted like sin, sweet and sexy, like leather and cowboy boots, and...

Holy shit.

She needed more. She needed everything. She needed him buried deep inside her, groaning her name as he drove her over the edge, as he came inside her, and...

Holy shit.

This was completely out of control.

"Holy shit." The words came from T.J.'s lips, not her own, as he tore his mouth from hers and speared her with his gaze. He panted for breath, his body coiled against hers, so hard, so ready. She felt every inch of him still pressed between her legs, right where her body burned hottest for him. "What the hell was that?"

She laughed. "If you don't know, then you're more out of practice than I am."

About Rachel Lacey
Rachel Lacey lives in North Carolina, with her husband, son, and their own rescued pup. She volunteers her spare time with Carolina Boxer Rescue and truly has a passion for helping our furry friends. She is a member of the Romance Writers of America as well as her local Heart of Carolina RWA chapter.

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