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Finding Perfect #1
Mike's Way Back
Detective Mike Sterling walked away from his dream job telling himself it was to honor the promise he’d made his mother, while lying in a Chicago emergency room. A year later, he’s still fighting the demons that followed him back to his boyhood town.
Taryn Watts is an award-winning designer, going from project to project, living from a suitcase. Her plan for Renlend Kansas was the same as always. Go in, get the job done and get out, just the way she likes it. Growing up as a cop’s daughter, her every move was controlled. When she escaped to college she vowed to never fall in love with a cop –ever. Until she found herself sitting across from the ruggedly handsome stranger. Looking into Mike’s ice blue eyes they pulled her, called to her, but there was a haunting in them she knew too well.
Mike is drawn to Taryn, her passion for her work and her stunning beauty left him breathless, but what surprises him most is the peace he feels when he’s near her. Maybe it’s because Taryn is a temporary addition to his town and his secret is safe, or maybe it’s because she makes him feel safe. Mike knows he can’t keep up this charade and when Taryn moves to Renlend for an extended stay he can’t hide the truth any longer.
Can Taryn forget he’s a cop and give him her heart, or will his demons drive them apart?
Taryn Watts is an award-winning designer, going from project to project, living from a suitcase. Her plan for Renlend Kansas was the same as always. Go in, get the job done and get out, just the way she likes it. Growing up as a cop’s daughter, her every move was controlled. When she escaped to college she vowed to never fall in love with a cop –ever. Until she found herself sitting across from the ruggedly handsome stranger. Looking into Mike’s ice blue eyes they pulled her, called to her, but there was a haunting in them she knew too well.
Mike is drawn to Taryn, her passion for her work and her stunning beauty left him breathless, but what surprises him most is the peace he feels when he’s near her. Maybe it’s because Taryn is a temporary addition to his town and his secret is safe, or maybe it’s because she makes him feel safe. Mike knows he can’t keep up this charade and when Taryn moves to Renlend for an extended stay he can’t hide the truth any longer.
Can Taryn forget he’s a cop and give him her heart, or will his demons drive them apart?
154 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2013
22 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
December 17, 2013
3.5 stars!
This is the first book I've read from this author, so I didn't quite know what to expect. Fortunately, I liked this one. Although it didn't exactly wow me, I did enjoy the story overall.
Mike Sterling is a cop who moved back to his hometown after a traumatic experience in the city. Taryn Watts is in town to remodel one of the older buildings in town. The two met at a local diner, struck up a friendship which evolved into something more. But the problem was that Mike has a secret he feels he needs to hide and Taryn doesn't do permanent, nor does she do cops. So this book basically follows their relationship as they both try to overcome their issues.
What I liked...
One. I liked that the fact that this was about two mature individuals who acted like two mature individuals. Meaning, there were no unnecessary drama or petty jealousies.
Two. I enjoyed both Mike and Taryn. The author did a great job with their characters. Mike is a wonderful hero. He's alpha without being too over the top. Taryn also was a great character. She wasn't annoying or whiny, and she can totally go toe-to-toe with Mike. Their banter was wonderful.
Three. Dual POVs. Gotta love those.
What I didn't like...
One. There were parts in the book that dragged for me. While I appreciate how Mike and Taryn took time to become friends first, I felt they took too long. Around 50%, I was still waiting for something to happen relationship-wise. It took a long time for them to get together and when they finally did, the whole thing just sort of fast-forwarded. They went from sleeping together, to spilling their secrets, and then meeting the parents to saying I love you shortly after getting together. It was like nothing was happening during the first half of the book and the suddenly, things picked up and everything was crammed into the second half.
But other than that, I have no other complaints. The writing is good and the length was just enough. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from this series and more from this author.
A copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book I've read from this author, so I didn't quite know what to expect. Fortunately, I liked this one. Although it didn't exactly wow me, I did enjoy the story overall.
Mike Sterling is a cop who moved back to his hometown after a traumatic experience in the city. Taryn Watts is in town to remodel one of the older buildings in town. The two met at a local diner, struck up a friendship which evolved into something more. But the problem was that Mike has a secret he feels he needs to hide and Taryn doesn't do permanent, nor does she do cops. So this book basically follows their relationship as they both try to overcome their issues.
What I liked...
One. I liked that the fact that this was about two mature individuals who acted like two mature individuals. Meaning, there were no unnecessary drama or petty jealousies.
Two. I enjoyed both Mike and Taryn. The author did a great job with their characters. Mike is a wonderful hero. He's alpha without being too over the top. Taryn also was a great character. She wasn't annoying or whiny, and she can totally go toe-to-toe with Mike. Their banter was wonderful.
Three. Dual POVs. Gotta love those.
What I didn't like...
One. There were parts in the book that dragged for me. While I appreciate how Mike and Taryn took time to become friends first, I felt they took too long. Around 50%, I was still waiting for something to happen relationship-wise. It took a long time for them to get together and when they finally did, the whole thing just sort of fast-forwarded. They went from sleeping together, to spilling their secrets, and then meeting the parents to saying I love you shortly after getting together. It was like nothing was happening during the first half of the book and the suddenly, things picked up and everything was crammed into the second half.
But other than that, I have no other complaints. The writing is good and the length was just enough. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from this series and more from this author.
A copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2015
Mike’s returned to live and work in his home town after a shoot out nearly killed him, she’s escaping her cop family and neither think getting together is a good idea - but their hearts disagree!
Detective Michael Sterling worked in Chicago until a shoot out left him having lifesaving emergency surgery. He’s pretending that he’s returning to work in his hometown of Renland, Kansas, to stop his Mum worrying but his dreams know otherwise….
Taryn Watts is in Renland as an interior designer, working on a client’s new cookery school and stops into a local cafe for a meal . . . that’s where she and Mike first meet. The attraction is mutual but past experiences make both wary. She’s very aware of the potential for this becoming a long distance relationship as she’s not going to be in town for long, is it worth the potential heartbreak? Can their love find a way? Is any of it worth the risk?
Despite this being a novella, it has well developed, complex characters throughout - including many of the secondary ones. The writing style makes this an easy story to escape into, with easy to empathise with range of characters, an engaging, fast paced plot and, whilst this story is complete in its own right, the potential for future stories in the series is high because of the brilliant secondary characters and setting in this one.
I hadn’t read anything by this author in the past but I’ll certainly be looking out for more by her in future! This is a well crafted story, with brilliant banter between the characters making it a highly entertaining read and one I have no hesitation in highly recommending to anyone who enjoys escaping into a delightful small town romance.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
Detective Michael Sterling worked in Chicago until a shoot out left him having lifesaving emergency surgery. He’s pretending that he’s returning to work in his hometown of Renland, Kansas, to stop his Mum worrying but his dreams know otherwise….
Taryn Watts is in Renland as an interior designer, working on a client’s new cookery school and stops into a local cafe for a meal . . . that’s where she and Mike first meet. The attraction is mutual but past experiences make both wary. She’s very aware of the potential for this becoming a long distance relationship as she’s not going to be in town for long, is it worth the potential heartbreak? Can their love find a way? Is any of it worth the risk?
Despite this being a novella, it has well developed, complex characters throughout - including many of the secondary ones. The writing style makes this an easy story to escape into, with easy to empathise with range of characters, an engaging, fast paced plot and, whilst this story is complete in its own right, the potential for future stories in the series is high because of the brilliant secondary characters and setting in this one.
I hadn’t read anything by this author in the past but I’ll certainly be looking out for more by her in future! This is a well crafted story, with brilliant banter between the characters making it a highly entertaining read and one I have no hesitation in highly recommending to anyone who enjoys escaping into a delightful small town romance.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
February 12, 2014
I adored this book. Mike's Way Back is beautifully written with strong characters fighting to overcome something deep from their past.
We meet Mike as he's going to the local bar to grab some food. Once he's there a gorgeous woman comes and sits close to his table and he can't take his eyes off of her.
Taryn is in town to renovate a building and doesn't have time for men in her life, so she is engrossed in her work until she feels eyes watching her work. She meets Mike's eyes and winks. Then she freaks because she doesn't flirt with guys.
Kelly, the waitress introduces the 2 because Taryn needs to use the restroom and asked Mike to watch her stuff. Once Kelly tells her not to worry about her stuff because Mike was a cop, Mike could see the disappointment in her eyes.
Taryn grew up in a cop family, dad and 2 brothers who were overly protective of her. But Mike asks her to come with him and he would show her the town so she could get inspiration. There is an immediate connection, but Taryn is leaving in a few weeks so they start out as friends.
The characters in this book are wonderful. You get some POV changes throughout the story. Taryn, Mike, the bookstore owner, and a few more. The author is building up to write spinoff stories on these characters.
If your looking for a sweet love story this is the one for you. And look at that cover, hello Mr. Sexy!! I give 4 stars for Mike's Way Back and look forward for more from this author!
We meet Mike as he's going to the local bar to grab some food. Once he's there a gorgeous woman comes and sits close to his table and he can't take his eyes off of her.
Taryn is in town to renovate a building and doesn't have time for men in her life, so she is engrossed in her work until she feels eyes watching her work. She meets Mike's eyes and winks. Then she freaks because she doesn't flirt with guys.
Kelly, the waitress introduces the 2 because Taryn needs to use the restroom and asked Mike to watch her stuff. Once Kelly tells her not to worry about her stuff because Mike was a cop, Mike could see the disappointment in her eyes.
Taryn grew up in a cop family, dad and 2 brothers who were overly protective of her. But Mike asks her to come with him and he would show her the town so she could get inspiration. There is an immediate connection, but Taryn is leaving in a few weeks so they start out as friends.
The characters in this book are wonderful. You get some POV changes throughout the story. Taryn, Mike, the bookstore owner, and a few more. The author is building up to write spinoff stories on these characters.
If your looking for a sweet love story this is the one for you. And look at that cover, hello Mr. Sexy!! I give 4 stars for Mike's Way Back and look forward for more from this author!
November 28, 2015
"A copy of this book has been provide by Barclay Publicity via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review"
This is the first time I've read any of this author's work, and it certainly won't be the last.
I like her voice, writing style, and story-line.
This was a nice quick read. Even though this is a short story, the characters were well developed and the story was complete.
I really liked the characters and the chemistry between them.
I liked Mike and Taryn's strengths and also their weaknesses.
Together they were able to heal, and be strong together.
Good story!
June 19, 2017
The cover of this book caught my attention, and then after reading the blurb I just had to read it! I loved Mike and Taryn's story. The battles he fought with over something that happened to him on job, was mentally draining for him. And after finding his wife in bed with another man, Mike figured he wasn't meant to be with anyone. He tried but nothing ever grounded him. Then he meets Taryn, an interior designer. And her feisty attitude mix along with some shyness caught his attention. Can Mike let go of his past and make a future with Taryn and will Taryn be able to be with a cop?
Amy did a fabulous job with this book. I didn't put it down once I picked it up. I am very excited to read more of this series! This was an awesome little contemporary romance that I would highly recommend to anyone!
Amy did a fabulous job with this book. I didn't put it down once I picked it up. I am very excited to read more of this series! This was an awesome little contemporary romance that I would highly recommend to anyone!
December 8, 2013
** Review for BareNakedWords **
“Mike’s Way Back” is book 1 of a new series by author Amy Gregory. This is a feel good romance set in the small, homely town of Renland, Kansas. The story centres around Mike, the towns detective and Taryn, a designer who is in town on a job.
After an incident that nearly cost Mike his life working his dream job as a detective in Chicago, he decides to return to his hometown for a change of pace and quieter life. Something he promised his mum. Here he was happier and more at ease. “He buried his demons and kept the personal hell he experienced to himself”, but he’s on the right path.
Taryn is a renowned designer and sought out from clients all over the world. She loves her job, it’s her passion and her work speaks for itself. She loves living her life travelling, doing something she loves and being free. Away from the suffocating life she lived growing up as a cop’s daughter. This was only made worse when her two older brothers joined the force as well, which is why she vowed never to get involved with “male authority figures”.
So when she lands herself a job designing a store in the small, quaint town she all but jumps at the opportunity. It is here, in a bar called ‘Jenny’s’ where she meets the ever gorgeous, detective Mike Sterling.
“It was those eyes though that grabbed her and wouldn’t let go. They were so sharp, she felt almost as if he could see deep into the depths of her soul.”
And Mike was just as affected by her as she was of him.
“Just her voice alone was enough to set his blood on fire. Smooth, calm, and almost seductive,”
“The skin of her hand as soft as velvet, but the touch was pure electricity.”
It is when Taryn returns to her home in California for a short while that her and Mike’s relationship really develops. Through constant emails, phone calls and texts to each other she finds herself falling deeper for the man she vowed not to fall for.
She was melting under his spell and for the first time in a very long time, she was worried knowing she was no match for this man. What really scared the absolute hell out of her was...it felt right.”
And when she returns to the town to carry on with her job, they don’t waste any time in growing their relationship even more. He knows her issues with him being a cop and he will fight to prove to her that he will be nothing like her father or brother.
“Sugar. This isn’t a power struggle I’m trying to win with you. We are totally equal here. But I’ll let you know right now-there is one thing I will fight you on.”
“I want you Taryn. Give me a hundred and one excuses, and I’ll fight every one of them tooth and nail.”
And who is there to help him win over Taryn? Her very much gay, and fun loving business partner, Andrew. I love him. He’s been with Taryn since college, and they quickly formed an unbreakable friendship. They became family to one and other.
“You’ve used work as an excuse for two, almost three years now.” He brushed the hair from her eyes. “You’ve got to put yourself out there again and take a chance.”
“I have.”
Andrew tipped his head. “A casual date here and there isn’t what I’m talking about. Your cop’s been emailing and calling for a month. You’re giddy after you’ve spoken with him. Even if you try to act aloof, I can see it in your eyes.”
But can he open himself up and divulge his inner most demons to Taryn?
“Mike...you can trust me with your pain.”
I was rooting for Mike and Taryn’s relationship to work from the moment they started talking to each other. The banter they shared had me laughing and they were just perfect for each other.
Yes both of them have demons that they need to overcome, but with them working together they can help each other.
Yes there were a couple of things I didn’t understand in the book, and why things were placed where they were, but Amy made it clear at the end.
I am looking forward to the next instalment. Although the second book is centring on a different character I can’t wait to hear their story and to see if we get to find out what’s next for Mike and Taryn.
“Mike’s Way Back” is book 1 of a new series by author Amy Gregory. This is a feel good romance set in the small, homely town of Renland, Kansas. The story centres around Mike, the towns detective and Taryn, a designer who is in town on a job.
After an incident that nearly cost Mike his life working his dream job as a detective in Chicago, he decides to return to his hometown for a change of pace and quieter life. Something he promised his mum. Here he was happier and more at ease. “He buried his demons and kept the personal hell he experienced to himself”, but he’s on the right path.
Taryn is a renowned designer and sought out from clients all over the world. She loves her job, it’s her passion and her work speaks for itself. She loves living her life travelling, doing something she loves and being free. Away from the suffocating life she lived growing up as a cop’s daughter. This was only made worse when her two older brothers joined the force as well, which is why she vowed never to get involved with “male authority figures”.
So when she lands herself a job designing a store in the small, quaint town she all but jumps at the opportunity. It is here, in a bar called ‘Jenny’s’ where she meets the ever gorgeous, detective Mike Sterling.
“It was those eyes though that grabbed her and wouldn’t let go. They were so sharp, she felt almost as if he could see deep into the depths of her soul.”
And Mike was just as affected by her as she was of him.
“Just her voice alone was enough to set his blood on fire. Smooth, calm, and almost seductive,”
“The skin of her hand as soft as velvet, but the touch was pure electricity.”
It is when Taryn returns to her home in California for a short while that her and Mike’s relationship really develops. Through constant emails, phone calls and texts to each other she finds herself falling deeper for the man she vowed not to fall for.
She was melting under his spell and for the first time in a very long time, she was worried knowing she was no match for this man. What really scared the absolute hell out of her was...it felt right.”
And when she returns to the town to carry on with her job, they don’t waste any time in growing their relationship even more. He knows her issues with him being a cop and he will fight to prove to her that he will be nothing like her father or brother.
“Sugar. This isn’t a power struggle I’m trying to win with you. We are totally equal here. But I’ll let you know right now-there is one thing I will fight you on.”
“I want you Taryn. Give me a hundred and one excuses, and I’ll fight every one of them tooth and nail.”
And who is there to help him win over Taryn? Her very much gay, and fun loving business partner, Andrew. I love him. He’s been with Taryn since college, and they quickly formed an unbreakable friendship. They became family to one and other.
“You’ve used work as an excuse for two, almost three years now.” He brushed the hair from her eyes. “You’ve got to put yourself out there again and take a chance.”
“I have.”
Andrew tipped his head. “A casual date here and there isn’t what I’m talking about. Your cop’s been emailing and calling for a month. You’re giddy after you’ve spoken with him. Even if you try to act aloof, I can see it in your eyes.”
But can he open himself up and divulge his inner most demons to Taryn?
“Mike...you can trust me with your pain.”
I was rooting for Mike and Taryn’s relationship to work from the moment they started talking to each other. The banter they shared had me laughing and they were just perfect for each other.
Yes both of them have demons that they need to overcome, but with them working together they can help each other.
Yes there were a couple of things I didn’t understand in the book, and why things were placed where they were, but Amy made it clear at the end.
I am looking forward to the next instalment. Although the second book is centring on a different character I can’t wait to hear their story and to see if we get to find out what’s next for Mike and Taryn.
December 29, 2013
This book was beautiful. Just simply beautiful.
Mike left the big city where he was a cop after the incident that left him in the hospital. He told himself and everyone that it was for his mom, who wanted him to move closer to home. But reality spoke a different language, Mike was afraid that it would happen again if he stayed in Chicago. So he moved back to the small town where his family was and started over as a detective there. But one day while sitting in the bar eating his dinner, he saw her and knew in an instant that she was going to change his world.
Taryn was in that small little town on that day for her job. She loved what she did. She had left home many years ago to escape the control of her father and brothers. She made a home for herself with her business partner, Andrew. Her life was great. Well except her last serious boyfriend was years before and she hadn’t had sex in quite a while. She had built this confident aire about her that nothing would get in the way of. She didn’t have time for a relationship and she certainly didn’t have time to have one with a cop.
But there was a spark, when they shook hands for the first time, they both felt it. He was everything she swore she never wanted and she was everything he wasn’t sure he could have. But these two collide with an undeniable chemistry and really it is just beautiful and romantic. But will her family get in the way or will the demons of his past be the downfall to a happily ever after?
What I loved about this book is that these characters were real. They didn’t have huge scary flaws preventing them from falling in love, they didn’t have tragic lives. Yes, they both had dark issues that they had to deal with. Taryn wouldn’t be controlled and Mike had never found forgiveness in himself from the events in Chicago. But together in this small town, the two of them were amazing. I was actually surprised by how quickly they fell for each other. Not because it happened, but because it felt natural. It didn’t feel like it was too fast. It felt like it was the right pace for their love. It surprised me because typically when characters fall in love so quickly, I tend to think to myself, yeah right. That just doesn’t happen. But with Mike and Taryn, it just felt like the right pace for them.
I also loved the biggest rivalry in baseball being thrown into the mix. The humor used in this book when it came to their teams just made me smile time and time again. I even read some of it to my husband (The Red Sox fan) and we both got a good giggle out of it, and for the record, no I am not a Yankees fan (but I do love the manager of the Yankees, he was my favorite catcher growing up).
The witty banter in this book was a definate plus as well. I felt like I was in the small town with them. I fell in love with the people, the places and the town. This book was just such a sweet love story and I really enjoyed every moment of it!
*I received a complimentary copy of Mike's Way Back in exchange for an honest review.
Mike left the big city where he was a cop after the incident that left him in the hospital. He told himself and everyone that it was for his mom, who wanted him to move closer to home. But reality spoke a different language, Mike was afraid that it would happen again if he stayed in Chicago. So he moved back to the small town where his family was and started over as a detective there. But one day while sitting in the bar eating his dinner, he saw her and knew in an instant that she was going to change his world.
Taryn was in that small little town on that day for her job. She loved what she did. She had left home many years ago to escape the control of her father and brothers. She made a home for herself with her business partner, Andrew. Her life was great. Well except her last serious boyfriend was years before and she hadn’t had sex in quite a while. She had built this confident aire about her that nothing would get in the way of. She didn’t have time for a relationship and she certainly didn’t have time to have one with a cop.
But there was a spark, when they shook hands for the first time, they both felt it. He was everything she swore she never wanted and she was everything he wasn’t sure he could have. But these two collide with an undeniable chemistry and really it is just beautiful and romantic. But will her family get in the way or will the demons of his past be the downfall to a happily ever after?
What I loved about this book is that these characters were real. They didn’t have huge scary flaws preventing them from falling in love, they didn’t have tragic lives. Yes, they both had dark issues that they had to deal with. Taryn wouldn’t be controlled and Mike had never found forgiveness in himself from the events in Chicago. But together in this small town, the two of them were amazing. I was actually surprised by how quickly they fell for each other. Not because it happened, but because it felt natural. It didn’t feel like it was too fast. It felt like it was the right pace for their love. It surprised me because typically when characters fall in love so quickly, I tend to think to myself, yeah right. That just doesn’t happen. But with Mike and Taryn, it just felt like the right pace for them.
I also loved the biggest rivalry in baseball being thrown into the mix. The humor used in this book when it came to their teams just made me smile time and time again. I even read some of it to my husband (The Red Sox fan) and we both got a good giggle out of it, and for the record, no I am not a Yankees fan (but I do love the manager of the Yankees, he was my favorite catcher growing up).
The witty banter in this book was a definate plus as well. I felt like I was in the small town with them. I fell in love with the people, the places and the town. This book was just such a sweet love story and I really enjoyed every moment of it!
*I received a complimentary copy of Mike's Way Back in exchange for an honest review.
December 26, 2013
(ARC received from Literati Author Services in exchange for an honest review)
I was undecided about reading this book and at one point completely disregarded it. I’ve been in a book funk for some time and I’ve been struggling to find a book that interested me enough to read. I don’t know what finally tipped the edge and why I made the decision to read this book after all but I’m so glad I did. Like I said earlier I’ve been in such a book funk and I’ve had real difficulties keeping my head in the game while reading. Nothing has been able to grab me, hold me and make me lose myself in the world created between those book covers. Amy was able to not only grab my attention but had me completely living the life of her characters. For that one book my book funk was long forgotten but once I’d read that last page I was back in my funk. That says more about Amy’s book and writing style than my mere words can.
This is the story of Mike (as the title suggests) and Taryn. This is not an explosive book, this is a beautiful story of love and of take the risk of opening up your heart and letting it all spill out hoping that the other person is there to catch it all. For me this is a light hearted romance and watching the two falling in love had me falling in love with them both too. It didn’t follow your typical boy-meets-girl have HUGE issues and HEA and I think this is the reason I fell in love with it. A lot of books out there are quite similar these days and in a HEA romance to be honest they are going to be, it’s the story and journey the characters take that makes the book its own. Mike’s Way Back has both points in it doesn’t follow the ‘standard’ romance outline and that the story and journey are just, well you really have to experience it. These two characters go on a journey of self-discovery through each other **sigh**. Just loved it.
Hmmm I best get to the bare bones of things now hey? Well, Amy has developed characters that complement each other really well and it’s not just those two. The whole character cast work well in this world. They are friends, lovers, mothers, brothers, sister etc… It was like living in your own community, they were brought to life really well. The story flowed well and before I knew it I was at the end. As much as I didn’t want this story to end, it came to a natural end that left me feeling satisfied yet hungry for more of the series and from the teaser and the foundations that Amy has laid out for the next the book in the series I am on count down and I’m currently Facebook stalking Amy, although I’d never admit that to anyone else.
I just currently started another title by Amy in the hope it too pulls me out of this book funk I’ve found myself in and so far it’s not disappointing. If you’re looking for a book with a love story that’s not explosive but will rock your sock’s in a completely different way, well look no further.
I was undecided about reading this book and at one point completely disregarded it. I’ve been in a book funk for some time and I’ve been struggling to find a book that interested me enough to read. I don’t know what finally tipped the edge and why I made the decision to read this book after all but I’m so glad I did. Like I said earlier I’ve been in such a book funk and I’ve had real difficulties keeping my head in the game while reading. Nothing has been able to grab me, hold me and make me lose myself in the world created between those book covers. Amy was able to not only grab my attention but had me completely living the life of her characters. For that one book my book funk was long forgotten but once I’d read that last page I was back in my funk. That says more about Amy’s book and writing style than my mere words can.
This is the story of Mike (as the title suggests) and Taryn. This is not an explosive book, this is a beautiful story of love and of take the risk of opening up your heart and letting it all spill out hoping that the other person is there to catch it all. For me this is a light hearted romance and watching the two falling in love had me falling in love with them both too. It didn’t follow your typical boy-meets-girl have HUGE issues and HEA and I think this is the reason I fell in love with it. A lot of books out there are quite similar these days and in a HEA romance to be honest they are going to be, it’s the story and journey the characters take that makes the book its own. Mike’s Way Back has both points in it doesn’t follow the ‘standard’ romance outline and that the story and journey are just, well you really have to experience it. These two characters go on a journey of self-discovery through each other **sigh**. Just loved it.
Hmmm I best get to the bare bones of things now hey? Well, Amy has developed characters that complement each other really well and it’s not just those two. The whole character cast work well in this world. They are friends, lovers, mothers, brothers, sister etc… It was like living in your own community, they were brought to life really well. The story flowed well and before I knew it I was at the end. As much as I didn’t want this story to end, it came to a natural end that left me feeling satisfied yet hungry for more of the series and from the teaser and the foundations that Amy has laid out for the next the book in the series I am on count down and I’m currently Facebook stalking Amy, although I’d never admit that to anyone else.
I just currently started another title by Amy in the hope it too pulls me out of this book funk I’ve found myself in and so far it’s not disappointing. If you’re looking for a book with a love story that’s not explosive but will rock your sock’s in a completely different way, well look no further.
January 3, 2014
I loved the "Racing To Love" series by Amy Gregory, and flew through the books. So when I found out there would be a new series by her, with the first book as a spin-off with Mike, Carter's brother from the RTL series, I was thrilled. Now it is not necessary to have read any of the RTL books previously, but some of the characters make cameos, so for me it was a special treat. Mike's story is completely his own. But by the end you may find yourself wanting to meet the other side of the family.
Mike's Way Back follows Mike, detective and cop extraordinaire, who has moved back to his hometown. He has this quiet strength about him that I really liked, and though he is still a cop, his alpha male side is controlled, sensitive or strong at all the right times. Plus his detective side allows him to see beyond the surface. He's been burned before, and old wounds die hard, but into his life walks Taryn, a woman to challenge him, but maybe even heal him. Taryn herself is passionate about her job, has created an exterior that has protected her over the years, but unknowingly needs someone to see past her walls and love her for who she is, letting her inner firecracker out.
I loved the pacing and interactions between Mike and Taryn. They have wonderful banter that helps open them up to each other, and beyond that the more they are with each other, even by phone or email, the clearer you can see their friendship forming, and blooming into more. Even within the limited time frame, it all felt very natural. I truly enjoyed their honesty, their genuine care and consideration of the other, their lack of game-playing, how well they worked together, the laughs they shared, and of course their chemistry (their hot chemistry).
Additionally, one of Amy Gregory's strengths in her RTL series was the great community of characters she brings to life. We're not limited to just the MCs or given some token one-dimensional secondary characters. In MWB, we once again gain some wonderful characters that I look forward to getting to know more and more. Everyone has a place in the story and it gives a lovely depth to this book.
Amy Gregory created a beautiful, sweet romance between two characters with incredible humor, heart, healing, and love. I'm so happy about the start of this new series, and I hope Mike and Taryn make appearances in the rest of the upcoming books.
Mike's Way Back follows Mike, detective and cop extraordinaire, who has moved back to his hometown. He has this quiet strength about him that I really liked, and though he is still a cop, his alpha male side is controlled, sensitive or strong at all the right times. Plus his detective side allows him to see beyond the surface. He's been burned before, and old wounds die hard, but into his life walks Taryn, a woman to challenge him, but maybe even heal him. Taryn herself is passionate about her job, has created an exterior that has protected her over the years, but unknowingly needs someone to see past her walls and love her for who she is, letting her inner firecracker out.
I loved the pacing and interactions between Mike and Taryn. They have wonderful banter that helps open them up to each other, and beyond that the more they are with each other, even by phone or email, the clearer you can see their friendship forming, and blooming into more. Even within the limited time frame, it all felt very natural. I truly enjoyed their honesty, their genuine care and consideration of the other, their lack of game-playing, how well they worked together, the laughs they shared, and of course their chemistry (their hot chemistry).
Additionally, one of Amy Gregory's strengths in her RTL series was the great community of characters she brings to life. We're not limited to just the MCs or given some token one-dimensional secondary characters. In MWB, we once again gain some wonderful characters that I look forward to getting to know more and more. Everyone has a place in the story and it gives a lovely depth to this book.
Amy Gregory created a beautiful, sweet romance between two characters with incredible humor, heart, healing, and love. I'm so happy about the start of this new series, and I hope Mike and Taryn make appearances in the rest of the upcoming books.
December 30, 2013
You can also find my review on my blog: http://bit.ly/1aj2bBm
Mike’s Way Back is the first book in author Amy Gregory’s Finding Perfect Series and was an enjoyable kick-off!
Detective Mike Sterling is back in his hometown after leaving the police force in Detroit. Now, if he could just leave the horrible memories that went along with it. He’s settling into life with a quieter pace even if the nightmares haunt him at night. Things are looking up and start looking even better when a beautiful stranger shows up at his favorite pub. Determined to find out more about her, he shares a meal with her and is thrilled at the prospect that she may be spending a bit of time here and with any luck, he’ll be spending that time with her….
Designer Taryn Watts is at the top of her field and loves every minute of her success. She has worked damn hard to get here and is finally at a good place in her life. It’s this award-winning career that has brought her to this charming little town and into this charming local pub. Another charming thing about this town is the gorgeous blond detective sharing her table with her. Yep, she could really learn to like this place. It’s a crying shame she didn’t call this place her home because a gal could really get used to this town and this guy….
Mike’s Way Back was a sweet and beautiful romance with a very real feel to it. Taryn is smart and talented with a fantastic job and some amazing friends. She was an enjoyable character to read with reservations that are very relatable. The uncertainty of new feelings and what it could mean for the life she’s worked hard for. Mike is a delicious, smart and respectable man also with a great career and a close knit family. He is also very real and thoughtful with his relationship with Taryn. I think that’s one of the things I enjoyed most about this book….that Mike and Taryn are more adult in how they proceed with their feelings and ultimately their relationship. The secondary cast of characters is also terrific. Taryn’s business partners and close friends are the best! A fabulous addition to the story, indeed.
Overall this was a great true-blue romance with an ending that I adored. Thank you, Amy!
Mike’s Way Back is the first book in author Amy Gregory’s Finding Perfect Series and was an enjoyable kick-off!
Detective Mike Sterling is back in his hometown after leaving the police force in Detroit. Now, if he could just leave the horrible memories that went along with it. He’s settling into life with a quieter pace even if the nightmares haunt him at night. Things are looking up and start looking even better when a beautiful stranger shows up at his favorite pub. Determined to find out more about her, he shares a meal with her and is thrilled at the prospect that she may be spending a bit of time here and with any luck, he’ll be spending that time with her….
Designer Taryn Watts is at the top of her field and loves every minute of her success. She has worked damn hard to get here and is finally at a good place in her life. It’s this award-winning career that has brought her to this charming little town and into this charming local pub. Another charming thing about this town is the gorgeous blond detective sharing her table with her. Yep, she could really learn to like this place. It’s a crying shame she didn’t call this place her home because a gal could really get used to this town and this guy….
Mike’s Way Back was a sweet and beautiful romance with a very real feel to it. Taryn is smart and talented with a fantastic job and some amazing friends. She was an enjoyable character to read with reservations that are very relatable. The uncertainty of new feelings and what it could mean for the life she’s worked hard for. Mike is a delicious, smart and respectable man also with a great career and a close knit family. He is also very real and thoughtful with his relationship with Taryn. I think that’s one of the things I enjoyed most about this book….that Mike and Taryn are more adult in how they proceed with their feelings and ultimately their relationship. The secondary cast of characters is also terrific. Taryn’s business partners and close friends are the best! A fabulous addition to the story, indeed.
Overall this was a great true-blue romance with an ending that I adored. Thank you, Amy!
December 28, 2013
" Eh…I'd apologize, sweetheart, but you're beautiful."
This is the first time reading Amy's work. I was not disappointed at all, in fact I have a feeling i'll be reading more of Amy's work! She has a way of drawing you in and not letting you go. I couldn't put it down once I started it. It's the kind where you bring the Kindle everywhere you go because you want to find out what will happen next.
Mike's Way Back is the story of Mike and Taryn. Mike comes back to his hometown and becomes a cop. He's got some demons he's trying to get over. Taryn and Mike meet in the bar one night. From there you can tell there is an attraction, however with Taryn only being in town on business and not looking for a guy let alone a cop what's the point right??? From the very first time they meet I swear you'll be rooting for them to get together. They are seriously adorable and should get together.
" You've successfully ruined any other woman on the planet. It has to be you."
Taryn grew up with a cop as a father, and made a promise to herself she'd never fall for a cop. So when she meets Mike she tries to put on a tough exterior, but he gets under her skin. I mean hell if I was her i'd let him get under my skin. Haha.
Mike is the perfect book boyfriend, so if you've been in search for a new one…he's your guy.
Amy did an amazing job at writing this. I swear I don't hate ANY of the characters. I have fallen in love with all of them. Mike's brother and sister-in-law are amazing! Hell even Taryn's co-worker and gay best friend and his partner are amazing! Just love this book to pieces.
" You just figured that out? Now damn it, tell me what you said before I rip you through this phone line just so I can have the satisfaction of knocking your ass into next week."
I highly recommend you read this book!!!!
I rate Mike's Way Back 5 stars.
" I thought most women described paradise as an upscale spa or an exotic beach. Or maybe the inside of Neiman Marcus?"
" If you stand there and have an orgasm over an old building, I am seriously going to have Mike haul you to the loony bin where you can see 'fashion' up close and personal."
This is the first time reading Amy's work. I was not disappointed at all, in fact I have a feeling i'll be reading more of Amy's work! She has a way of drawing you in and not letting you go. I couldn't put it down once I started it. It's the kind where you bring the Kindle everywhere you go because you want to find out what will happen next.
Mike's Way Back is the story of Mike and Taryn. Mike comes back to his hometown and becomes a cop. He's got some demons he's trying to get over. Taryn and Mike meet in the bar one night. From there you can tell there is an attraction, however with Taryn only being in town on business and not looking for a guy let alone a cop what's the point right??? From the very first time they meet I swear you'll be rooting for them to get together. They are seriously adorable and should get together.
" You've successfully ruined any other woman on the planet. It has to be you."
Taryn grew up with a cop as a father, and made a promise to herself she'd never fall for a cop. So when she meets Mike she tries to put on a tough exterior, but he gets under her skin. I mean hell if I was her i'd let him get under my skin. Haha.
Mike is the perfect book boyfriend, so if you've been in search for a new one…he's your guy.
Amy did an amazing job at writing this. I swear I don't hate ANY of the characters. I have fallen in love with all of them. Mike's brother and sister-in-law are amazing! Hell even Taryn's co-worker and gay best friend and his partner are amazing! Just love this book to pieces.
" You just figured that out? Now damn it, tell me what you said before I rip you through this phone line just so I can have the satisfaction of knocking your ass into next week."
I highly recommend you read this book!!!!
I rate Mike's Way Back 5 stars.
" I thought most women described paradise as an upscale spa or an exotic beach. Or maybe the inside of Neiman Marcus?"
" If you stand there and have an orgasm over an old building, I am seriously going to have Mike haul you to the loony bin where you can see 'fashion' up close and personal."
December 27, 2013
Given by the author for an honest review for her Blog Tour
Mike’s Way Back is such a great and wonderful book that it makes you reread it, right after you finish it..You just want more of the characters!!
To be honest, it wasn’t what I expected and I both liked and disliked that. No I’m not a crazy whacko-let me explain..I enjoyed the fact that it was different than what I had in mind, because I like being surprised. Mike’s Way Back was much more emotional..It actually focused on the characters’ feelings much more than the actual events. It’s the second book I read that has this approach and I’ve got to say that I really like it. Anyway..We understand our characters and we take every step of the way along with them..It really felt like a team-effort, sort to speak. But what I expected was a confrontation with Taryn’s family, a sort of closure between her and her family. Maybe not solve their problems, but at least a conversation, something. So, in this way I didn’t get my closure I needed as a reader. It may seem a small thing, but it felt pretty big to me.
Generally speaking, Mike’s Way Back is a truly wonderful book with an innocent love story but really hot scenes. The writing was beautiful and I loved the 2 POVs. They were remarkably written. I enjoyed it very much, mainly because it was so fun to read. It was smart and funny, entertaining and sexy, playful and sweet, loving and hot and at the same time very emotional.
>>Taryn is so amazing! She’s sweet and loving, but she’s also ferocious and stubborn and feisty. She’s the perfect combination for a woman. And of course, she’s also the perfect leading female character. She’s a great one..I have nothing else to say rather than I love her!
>>Mike is the very definition of a very good guy. He makes the right decisions, he’s smart and kind and oh so very thoughtful. He has a golden heart that makes him even sexier than he already is..
A perfect leading man for a perfect leading woman!!
In conclusion, I loved Mike’s Way Back!! It was a perfect book to read over the holidays, as well..Sweet and Sexy!! You can’t go wrong by buying and reading this one..I guarantee it!
Mike’s Way Back is such a great and wonderful book that it makes you reread it, right after you finish it..You just want more of the characters!!
To be honest, it wasn’t what I expected and I both liked and disliked that. No I’m not a crazy whacko-let me explain..I enjoyed the fact that it was different than what I had in mind, because I like being surprised. Mike’s Way Back was much more emotional..It actually focused on the characters’ feelings much more than the actual events. It’s the second book I read that has this approach and I’ve got to say that I really like it. Anyway..We understand our characters and we take every step of the way along with them..It really felt like a team-effort, sort to speak. But what I expected was a confrontation with Taryn’s family, a sort of closure between her and her family. Maybe not solve their problems, but at least a conversation, something. So, in this way I didn’t get my closure I needed as a reader. It may seem a small thing, but it felt pretty big to me.
Generally speaking, Mike’s Way Back is a truly wonderful book with an innocent love story but really hot scenes. The writing was beautiful and I loved the 2 POVs. They were remarkably written. I enjoyed it very much, mainly because it was so fun to read. It was smart and funny, entertaining and sexy, playful and sweet, loving and hot and at the same time very emotional.
>>Taryn is so amazing! She’s sweet and loving, but she’s also ferocious and stubborn and feisty. She’s the perfect combination for a woman. And of course, she’s also the perfect leading female character. She’s a great one..I have nothing else to say rather than I love her!
>>Mike is the very definition of a very good guy. He makes the right decisions, he’s smart and kind and oh so very thoughtful. He has a golden heart that makes him even sexier than he already is..
A perfect leading man for a perfect leading woman!!
In conclusion, I loved Mike’s Way Back!! It was a perfect book to read over the holidays, as well..Sweet and Sexy!! You can’t go wrong by buying and reading this one..I guarantee it!
July 26, 2016
Mike's Way Back by Amy Gregory is a fast-paced enjoyable read. It has a nice combination of lovable characters, sexiness and romance. Mike and Taryn were great characters to follow. They have an awesome chemistry and they are funny too!
Mike is a cop who had to make a difficult decision once tragedy struck. He returned to his childhood town and now works has a detective in Renlend Kansas. He left the Chicago PD after making a promise to his mom, but in reality he is trying to forget that terrible day that marked his life. Mike has not been lucky in love, but only one look at Taryn has his heart beating again. Taryn has no time for a relationship. She is invested in her work as a designer and spends most of her days traveling from one project to another. When her next project brings her to Renlend Kansas, the last thing she expected was to fall under the spell of a pair of mesmerizing blue eyes. Mike appeared unexpectedly in her life and when she finds out he's a cop, she's disappointed. Growing up in a family of cops was hard enough, the last thing she wanted was to fall in love with one. As days go by and their relationship grows, both Mike and Taryn will have to overcome their personal demons if they want a shot at making their relationship work.
This story was good. I connected with Mike and Taryn from the start and I finished reading this book in a couple of hours. I loved that this was an easy story to follow. No major drama in the story. It's a romantic/sweet love story that kept my interest until the very last page. I really liked Andrew and Scott (Taryn's best friends) and their sense of humor ;) I have to admit that I had a hard time connecting with Gabby, the bookstore owner, and the main character of the next book in the Finding Perfect series. I really wanted to connect with her since the next book is all about her and Shane, her mystery man. To be honest, Shane already won me over with his cockiness ;) I'm really anxious to discover Gabby's secret and to see if I connect with her in the next book.
I give Mike's Way Back by Amy Gregory, 3.5 sweet, romantic, sexy, enjoyable stars!
Mike is a cop who had to make a difficult decision once tragedy struck. He returned to his childhood town and now works has a detective in Renlend Kansas. He left the Chicago PD after making a promise to his mom, but in reality he is trying to forget that terrible day that marked his life. Mike has not been lucky in love, but only one look at Taryn has his heart beating again. Taryn has no time for a relationship. She is invested in her work as a designer and spends most of her days traveling from one project to another. When her next project brings her to Renlend Kansas, the last thing she expected was to fall under the spell of a pair of mesmerizing blue eyes. Mike appeared unexpectedly in her life and when she finds out he's a cop, she's disappointed. Growing up in a family of cops was hard enough, the last thing she wanted was to fall in love with one. As days go by and their relationship grows, both Mike and Taryn will have to overcome their personal demons if they want a shot at making their relationship work.
This story was good. I connected with Mike and Taryn from the start and I finished reading this book in a couple of hours. I loved that this was an easy story to follow. No major drama in the story. It's a romantic/sweet love story that kept my interest until the very last page. I really liked Andrew and Scott (Taryn's best friends) and their sense of humor ;) I have to admit that I had a hard time connecting with Gabby, the bookstore owner, and the main character of the next book in the Finding Perfect series. I really wanted to connect with her since the next book is all about her and Shane, her mystery man. To be honest, Shane already won me over with his cockiness ;) I'm really anxious to discover Gabby's secret and to see if I connect with her in the next book.
I give Mike's Way Back by Amy Gregory, 3.5 sweet, romantic, sexy, enjoyable stars!
November 25, 2013
Mike's way back is probably my new favorite short. I can't give it enough stars to relay my love for this book. Lol Is 132 pages really enough for me? I don't know... I think I need to pull an Annie Wilkes and INSIST that Amy Gregory revisit Michael and Taryn. Okay, so maybe that is a little over the top for a short, but I seriously feel like we haven't even begun to hear their story. This book was like an amazing trailer for a movie that I know will be epic but I doubt we will ever get to see. sad face
I couldn't love this book more if I had written it myself and had a deep devotion to the characters. I LOVE these characters and this whole storyline. PLEASE bring back Mike and Taryn! I'll give you oatmeal cookies with chocolate chips thrown in the mix. ;) We need more.... you know, like MORE. Lol No pressure! :P
uber Le sigh
It was witty, sexy, funny, relate able, and who doesn't love two gay best friends? You really don't even know how much I loved this book. My husband will tell you behind a lot of teeth gritting, that I am over the friggin moon ecstatic over this book. Maybe if I shut up about it, he will throw me over the kitchen table and interrogate me like a saucy little minx too. drool
Start to finish it was all there. The beginning was solid, the middle was solid and the end was a grand slam. GO RED SOX!! (I don't even like baseball! lol)
There were a couple of places that I was sad that there wasn't a little more detail and I wish it hadn't cut into a mysterious phone call to gabby, but it's not anything that I would criticize the book for. There were no major inconsistencies and everything flowed just wonderfully.
If you want....
hot and steamy √
sarcastic and funny √
A little tears and some warm fuzzies √ √
a book to make you squirm in your seat √ √ √
to feel like YOU could be the heroine and actually want to be √ x10
Now go forth and buy this book! You won't regret it. Much love Amy Gregory and thanks for allowing me to fall in love with your fictional family. ♥
I couldn't love this book more if I had written it myself and had a deep devotion to the characters. I LOVE these characters and this whole storyline. PLEASE bring back Mike and Taryn! I'll give you oatmeal cookies with chocolate chips thrown in the mix. ;) We need more.... you know, like MORE. Lol No pressure! :P
uber Le sigh
It was witty, sexy, funny, relate able, and who doesn't love two gay best friends? You really don't even know how much I loved this book. My husband will tell you behind a lot of teeth gritting, that I am over the friggin moon ecstatic over this book. Maybe if I shut up about it, he will throw me over the kitchen table and interrogate me like a saucy little minx too. drool
Start to finish it was all there. The beginning was solid, the middle was solid and the end was a grand slam. GO RED SOX!! (I don't even like baseball! lol)
There were a couple of places that I was sad that there wasn't a little more detail and I wish it hadn't cut into a mysterious phone call to gabby, but it's not anything that I would criticize the book for. There were no major inconsistencies and everything flowed just wonderfully.
If you want....
hot and steamy √
sarcastic and funny √
A little tears and some warm fuzzies √ √
a book to make you squirm in your seat √ √ √
to feel like YOU could be the heroine and actually want to be √ x10
Now go forth and buy this book! You won't regret it. Much love Amy Gregory and thanks for allowing me to fall in love with your fictional family. ♥
January 13, 2016
I enjoyed reading this book, even for it being a short story. The author draws you in from the beginning and keeps you hooked until the end. You get to know about the characters and connect with them. The way the characters come together in this story is a little different then what I've read and I loved how the author did it.
Mike is a cop and when his life is on the line, he decides that he needs to move away from Chicago and go back to his hometown out of the city. He moves back and even though he is in his home town, he still battles the demons he has. When he sees Taryn in the bar, he can't help but want to talk to her and get to know more about her. He realizes that Taryn is not like other women and he feels more at peace when she is around. Now Mike knows that he must keep talking to Taryn even when she leaves his town to go back home. Mike will stop at nothing to make sure he gets Taryn.
Taryn's life hasn't been easy especially when your father & brothers are cops. She moved away from them as soon as she could. Now she is in business with her best friend Andrew as designers. When a job comes up in Renlend she goes down to research the new project. She meets Mike at a bar and when she finds out he is a cop, the uneasy feelings come back from her childhood. The more time she spends talking with Mike, she realizes he isn't like her father & brothers. She doesn't know what it is about him but she has the instant connection to him and feels at home around him.
You'll feel the connection between the characters and a love form between them. The chemistry is hot & steamy but what a spark. The way the characters come together and the more time they spend with each other, the more they realizes they want to be with each other. Overall, a good book.
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
Mike is a cop and when his life is on the line, he decides that he needs to move away from Chicago and go back to his hometown out of the city. He moves back and even though he is in his home town, he still battles the demons he has. When he sees Taryn in the bar, he can't help but want to talk to her and get to know more about her. He realizes that Taryn is not like other women and he feels more at peace when she is around. Now Mike knows that he must keep talking to Taryn even when she leaves his town to go back home. Mike will stop at nothing to make sure he gets Taryn.
Taryn's life hasn't been easy especially when your father & brothers are cops. She moved away from them as soon as she could. Now she is in business with her best friend Andrew as designers. When a job comes up in Renlend she goes down to research the new project. She meets Mike at a bar and when she finds out he is a cop, the uneasy feelings come back from her childhood. The more time she spends talking with Mike, she realizes he isn't like her father & brothers. She doesn't know what it is about him but she has the instant connection to him and feels at home around him.
You'll feel the connection between the characters and a love form between them. The chemistry is hot & steamy but what a spark. The way the characters come together and the more time they spend with each other, the more they realizes they want to be with each other. Overall, a good book.
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
November 21, 2013
Mike's Way Back is a great romance that I would recommend to all you romance lovers out there. I started reading this book at work and could not put it down because I needed to know what was going to happen next. I needed to see where the author was going to take the characters. I was not disappointed by the way the story flowed and the ending was one I loved and I need the second book like ASAP!
Detective Mike Sterling walked away from his dream job and his life to start over again.Something happened to him in that life and he wanted nothing more than to walk away and start a new life otherwise he would go crazy. So he packs up and goes back home to Renland Kansas. Once there he starts to feel at ease. Yes he still has nightmares and he still can't get out of his mind what happened but he thinks he is on the right path with starting over new.
Taryn Watts is a talented designer being requested all over the world. She is renowned in her field and loves to travel all over the world. She loves the feel of living her own life and not having to live in the shadow of her father who is a cop and her brothers who are over bearing. So when she gets a request to design a place in Renland Kansas she is excited to be off on another trip. When she gets there she meets Mike. Lord the way he looks and the way he acts has her heart on high alert because there is something there but she has sworn she would never fall for a cop. She stays away from them because she doesn't want another father. But the more time she spends with Mike the closer they get the more she needs him in her life. But she knows Mike is hiding something and she won't make a move until she finds out what it is. Will Mike be able to come clean and keep Taryn or will he walk away.....
Detective Mike Sterling walked away from his dream job and his life to start over again.Something happened to him in that life and he wanted nothing more than to walk away and start a new life otherwise he would go crazy. So he packs up and goes back home to Renland Kansas. Once there he starts to feel at ease. Yes he still has nightmares and he still can't get out of his mind what happened but he thinks he is on the right path with starting over new.
Taryn Watts is a talented designer being requested all over the world. She is renowned in her field and loves to travel all over the world. She loves the feel of living her own life and not having to live in the shadow of her father who is a cop and her brothers who are over bearing. So when she gets a request to design a place in Renland Kansas she is excited to be off on another trip. When she gets there she meets Mike. Lord the way he looks and the way he acts has her heart on high alert because there is something there but she has sworn she would never fall for a cop. She stays away from them because she doesn't want another father. But the more time she spends with Mike the closer they get the more she needs him in her life. But she knows Mike is hiding something and she won't make a move until she finds out what it is. Will Mike be able to come clean and keep Taryn or will he walk away.....
December 29, 2013
This was one of the sweetest and breathtaking stories I’ve read. It was absolutely perfect. I love reading a story that draws me in and keeps me captivated by the characters and their connection. This was one of those books. It was beyond beautiful. It was amazing.
I absolutely adored Taryn. She is so spunky, care free, caring and loving all in one. She loves those around her to the fullest. I hurt so badly for her to learn some of her past and how she wasn’t that close to her family. I wanted nothing more than for her to find happiness and a family. She definitely had the two best friends EVER in her roommates. I loved that they were so close and looked out for one another and loved each other for who they were no matter what.
You will fall deeply in love with Detective Mike Sterling! I know I did. He is absolutely amazing. One of the greatest guys you will read about this year. He’s so well perfect. He’s strong, caring, has such a HUGE heart and not to mention he will take your breath away with how amazing he is. I loved every second that I was in his head. I just couldn’t get enough of him. My heart broke when I learned what he was hiding. I felt so bad for him and was beyond happy that Taryn helped him through it and showed him that what happened wasn’t his fault.
Taryn and Mike’s relationship was beautiful. I loved that they met and the connection was just there. It was like a switch went off for both of them and they just knew what they shared between them could be more. That it was going to be epic. I adore a story that is sweet and allows you to feel what the characters feel. This is definitely a wonderful love story you must add to your to read list.
I absolutely adored Taryn. She is so spunky, care free, caring and loving all in one. She loves those around her to the fullest. I hurt so badly for her to learn some of her past and how she wasn’t that close to her family. I wanted nothing more than for her to find happiness and a family. She definitely had the two best friends EVER in her roommates. I loved that they were so close and looked out for one another and loved each other for who they were no matter what.
You will fall deeply in love with Detective Mike Sterling! I know I did. He is absolutely amazing. One of the greatest guys you will read about this year. He’s so well perfect. He’s strong, caring, has such a HUGE heart and not to mention he will take your breath away with how amazing he is. I loved every second that I was in his head. I just couldn’t get enough of him. My heart broke when I learned what he was hiding. I felt so bad for him and was beyond happy that Taryn helped him through it and showed him that what happened wasn’t his fault.
Taryn and Mike’s relationship was beautiful. I loved that they met and the connection was just there. It was like a switch went off for both of them and they just knew what they shared between them could be more. That it was going to be epic. I adore a story that is sweet and allows you to feel what the characters feel. This is definitely a wonderful love story you must add to your to read list.
December 31, 2013
From the moment I saw this cover I knew I had to read it and was ultimately drawn to the protagonists as they were likable and easy to relate to. The storyline itself is nothing special but the characters easily drew me in as they tried to work through issues in their pasts while forging an unexpectedly sweet and sexy relationship. Mike has moved back home after a traumatic life-altering event has left him with guilt and doubt. He's not looking for a relationship but finds himself immediately drawn to Taryn with no promises of a future. Theirs is a romance that evolves slowly with two very equal people that made for an entertaining journey full of sexual tension. Mike is a delightful hero as he's strong-willed and willing to go after what he wants. He's an unexpected romantic in a muscular package.
Taryn is in town for a short period of time and not looking for a relationship, especially with a cop as her father was one and she swore never to enter that dangerous kind of life again. Instead of fear though he inspires safety and comfort in her and she's more than a match for him. She's equally strong-willed with a supportive group of friends surrounding her that enhances the heartwarming aspects of this story.
From its likable main characters to an entertaining cast of secondary characters this story told an enjoyable journey to HEA. This is the kind of story where you know what you're going to get and with Ms. Gregory at the helm you get just that and more!
Taryn is in town for a short period of time and not looking for a relationship, especially with a cop as her father was one and she swore never to enter that dangerous kind of life again. Instead of fear though he inspires safety and comfort in her and she's more than a match for him. She's equally strong-willed with a supportive group of friends surrounding her that enhances the heartwarming aspects of this story.
From its likable main characters to an entertaining cast of secondary characters this story told an enjoyable journey to HEA. This is the kind of story where you know what you're going to get and with Ms. Gregory at the helm you get just that and more!
December 24, 2015
This is my first Amy Gregory book and I was impressed!! I really enjoyed her writing style and the flow of the book was amazing! Great beginning of a new series!!
Mike is definitely a hot cop! He lives in a small town, where rarely anything happens. But, that wasn't always the case. He was a Chicago cop and there's a reason he's back to his small town of Renlend, Kansas. He's got skeleton's in his closet that he needed to escape from. Although they haunt him in his dreams, he carries on his daily cop duties. He'll never love again after catching his ex in bed with someone else. Or will he? Just how long can he outrun his skeletons?
Taryn was just making a quick stop in Renlend, Kansas for business. That's what she did..go in and do her job and get out. Of course, she didn't plan on running into a hot cop! No way is she dating a cop, her dad is one and the discipline and controlling personality drives her insane!! Nope, not dating a cop!!
Mike has other plans for Taryn and they don't include her avoiding him!! Mike is surprised that Taryn has found a friendship in the very quiet, I don't share anything, Gabby!
This was such a sweet, sexy book! I enjoyed everything about it! There was just enough of everything and was the perfect length! I'd recommend it, for sure! It would make a great movie!! I definitely will be reading book 2 because I just have to know Gabby's story!!
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha
Mike is definitely a hot cop! He lives in a small town, where rarely anything happens. But, that wasn't always the case. He was a Chicago cop and there's a reason he's back to his small town of Renlend, Kansas. He's got skeleton's in his closet that he needed to escape from. Although they haunt him in his dreams, he carries on his daily cop duties. He'll never love again after catching his ex in bed with someone else. Or will he? Just how long can he outrun his skeletons?
Taryn was just making a quick stop in Renlend, Kansas for business. That's what she did..go in and do her job and get out. Of course, she didn't plan on running into a hot cop! No way is she dating a cop, her dad is one and the discipline and controlling personality drives her insane!! Nope, not dating a cop!!
Mike has other plans for Taryn and they don't include her avoiding him!! Mike is surprised that Taryn has found a friendship in the very quiet, I don't share anything, Gabby!
This was such a sweet, sexy book! I enjoyed everything about it! There was just enough of everything and was the perfect length! I'd recommend it, for sure! It would make a great movie!! I definitely will be reading book 2 because I just have to know Gabby's story!!
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha
November 22, 2013
Amy Gregory is one of my favorite authors. Her stories and characters consistently have a way of drawing me in and entertaining me. I always look forward to her next release. I sigh every time I look at this cover!!!
I'm so glad Amy decided to write about Mike. He caught my attention from the start and I was so interested in reading more about him. I love how Mike's Way Back started out with Mike and Taryn both being attracted to each other but with Taryn not especially fond of cops, Mike had his work cut out for him. It was so funny to read Mike trying to be all smooth and charming but failing miserably. lol He kept having to apologize and start over. I loved that Taryn was able to act unaffected on the outside towards Mike. She definitely kept him on his toes. She was able to stand up to his big personality without losing herself. They were such a great couple. So cute together and the sexual chemistry poured off the pages. When they finally had sex for the first time....SMOKING HOT!!! ;) I also loved that Taryn was able to help Mike overcome his torment that lead to him leaving Chicago. She helped him face that tragedy and find the peace to move on. Loved the ending ~ so sweet.
4 out of 5 rating!!
Such a good story and I am so looking forward to more. Thanks Amy!! :)
I'm so glad Amy decided to write about Mike. He caught my attention from the start and I was so interested in reading more about him. I love how Mike's Way Back started out with Mike and Taryn both being attracted to each other but with Taryn not especially fond of cops, Mike had his work cut out for him. It was so funny to read Mike trying to be all smooth and charming but failing miserably. lol He kept having to apologize and start over. I loved that Taryn was able to act unaffected on the outside towards Mike. She definitely kept him on his toes. She was able to stand up to his big personality without losing herself. They were such a great couple. So cute together and the sexual chemistry poured off the pages. When they finally had sex for the first time....SMOKING HOT!!! ;) I also loved that Taryn was able to help Mike overcome his torment that lead to him leaving Chicago. She helped him face that tragedy and find the peace to move on. Loved the ending ~ so sweet.
4 out of 5 rating!!
Such a good story and I am so looking forward to more. Thanks Amy!! :)
December 29, 2013
I received an ARC for an honest review from Literati Author Services.
This was my first time reading a book from Amy Gregory and the cover kind of threw me as to what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised how good this book really was. With lines like...
" Eh…I'd apologize, sweetheart, but you're beautiful."
Mike has been a big city detective and comes back to his hometown after promising his mother. Mike meets Taryn at his local watering hole one night and is instantly drawn to her. Taryn is only in town on business and not looking for a guy let alone a cop. But from the first time they meet you can't deny the connection.
" If you stand there and have an orgasm over an old building, I am seriously going to have Mike haul you to the loony bin where you can see 'fashion' up close and personal."
Mike is the perfect book boyfriend, so if you've been in search for a new one…he's your guy. Mike's brother and sister-in-law are hilarious and so cute! Taryn's co-worker and gay best friend and his partner are so supportive and sweet!
Absolutely loved this and would recommend to anyone look for a sweet romance novel!
This was my first time reading a book from Amy Gregory and the cover kind of threw me as to what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised how good this book really was. With lines like...
" Eh…I'd apologize, sweetheart, but you're beautiful."
Mike has been a big city detective and comes back to his hometown after promising his mother. Mike meets Taryn at his local watering hole one night and is instantly drawn to her. Taryn is only in town on business and not looking for a guy let alone a cop. But from the first time they meet you can't deny the connection.
" If you stand there and have an orgasm over an old building, I am seriously going to have Mike haul you to the loony bin where you can see 'fashion' up close and personal."
Mike is the perfect book boyfriend, so if you've been in search for a new one…he's your guy. Mike's brother and sister-in-law are hilarious and so cute! Taryn's co-worker and gay best friend and his partner are so supportive and sweet!
Absolutely loved this and would recommend to anyone look for a sweet romance novel!
August 3, 2016
I was given a copy of Mike's Way Back-Finding Perfect by Amy Gregory in exchange of an honest review. I really enjoyed this. Mike a single guy is at his friends Tavern when he saw this beautiful woman who he was later introduce to as Taryn. "Watching" Mike getting beat in his own game is really funny. Mike being jealous over someone Taryn was talking to and he just met her was really funny when he found out that it was Andrew someone Taryn worked with. Mike hadn't thought of his ex wife in so long it was hard to remember he was married. When he looked at Taryn he pushed his thoughts of his ex wife out of this mind like the theme song of "The Wizard of Oz" That part was funny to me cause it reminded me of a lady that used to ride her bike and looked just like the lady in the Wizard of Oz. When Mike took Tayrn on a tour through the town the author Amy Gregory made it all sound like HEAVEN. To Taryn it was Paradise. I also like how Amy puts in "Don't judge a book by its cover. In the bookstore of all places." I laughed at that. I really enjoyed this book. Kept me interested from beginning to the end.
December 26, 2013
Oh Mike! One of my favorite characters! I loved his brother Carter and his wife Molly in Gregory's other series and the brief glimpse of Mike in those books. But Now... I have completely fallen in love with these characters and Gregory's writing style.
The new characters introduced in this book and series are fun and show a new story line to get wrapped up in. I really enjoyed the direction this book took us. I was also really happy to get to read Mike's story. We get insights in to his amazing character in the Racing to love series, but I truly enjoyed this read.
The witty humor and the fun loving atmosphere the author creates time and time again keep me coming back for more. Gregory writes another great. This one beginning a new series that I have already fallen for and cannot wait to dive into the next installment. A truly great read. I am a huge fan!
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December 29, 2013
Mike’s Way Back (Finding Perfect-Book One) by Amy Gregory
Mike Sterling was a cop in a small town. He hadn’t always been there, he grew up there and moved to Chicago to be a detective. Then a kid shot him and he nearly died from the bullet wound. He also killed the kid in self-defense. Everyone knew that but it didn’t help. Somewhere in this mix he went home early and you can probably guess the rest. Let’s just say he’s divorced.
Taryn Watts was the ultimate professional. She had her dream job in designing space for picky clients. She had two best friends, Andrew and Scott who were much more than friends to each other. She didn’t need complications. She just wanted to create a working space for her client’s culinary school.
Strong willed woman meets strong willed man. Hmmmmm. This book was a fun read, the characters well done and the humor wonderful! I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a little down time with some entertaining people.
Mike Sterling was a cop in a small town. He hadn’t always been there, he grew up there and moved to Chicago to be a detective. Then a kid shot him and he nearly died from the bullet wound. He also killed the kid in self-defense. Everyone knew that but it didn’t help. Somewhere in this mix he went home early and you can probably guess the rest. Let’s just say he’s divorced.
Taryn Watts was the ultimate professional. She had her dream job in designing space for picky clients. She had two best friends, Andrew and Scott who were much more than friends to each other. She didn’t need complications. She just wanted to create a working space for her client’s culinary school.
Strong willed woman meets strong willed man. Hmmmmm. This book was a fun read, the characters well done and the humor wonderful! I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a little down time with some entertaining people.
December 31, 2013
A beautiful and sweet romance story.
This read is the story of detective Mike Sterling who is still fighting the demons from his past and an award-winning designer Taryn Watts who vowed to never fall in love with a cop.
But you can´t fight what was written up there. You can´t fight your destiny. And her destiny was to fell in love with a cop.
Amy´s writing is simply beautiful and her stories are easy to read. Her stories just drew you in and enrapture you and you are just flipping page after page because you can´t stop until you finish.
Looking forward to read next books in the series.
Great job Amy.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
This read is the story of detective Mike Sterling who is still fighting the demons from his past and an award-winning designer Taryn Watts who vowed to never fall in love with a cop.
But you can´t fight what was written up there. You can´t fight your destiny. And her destiny was to fell in love with a cop.
Amy´s writing is simply beautiful and her stories are easy to read. Her stories just drew you in and enrapture you and you are just flipping page after page because you can´t stop until you finish.
Looking forward to read next books in the series.
Great job Amy.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
November 20, 2013
4.5 Star Review - Mike's Way Back
I recommend this book.
I enjoyed this book by Amy.
You may have met Mike during "Racing to Love" but you get to know him better in this story. Mike is working through issues with his past during this book.
Taryn hates to be controlled and is worried that is what Mike wants to do to her like her family. Can they both trust each other and built a relationship together. Does she want to help him fight demons in order to be with him?
Fell in love with Mike in this story he is sweet and loving. Taryn is tough but can Mike soften her harder edges. Can he trust her to help him fight his own demons.
Totally love this story and can't wait for the next one in this series.
I recommend this book.
I enjoyed this book by Amy.
You may have met Mike during "Racing to Love" but you get to know him better in this story. Mike is working through issues with his past during this book.
Taryn hates to be controlled and is worried that is what Mike wants to do to her like her family. Can they both trust each other and built a relationship together. Does she want to help him fight demons in order to be with him?
Fell in love with Mike in this story he is sweet and loving. Taryn is tough but can Mike soften her harder edges. Can he trust her to help him fight his own demons.
Totally love this story and can't wait for the next one in this series.
November 29, 2013
I received an ARC for an honest review.
This was a really sweet, romantic read. I enjoyed the storyline that flowed brilliantly, I fell in love with the characters and I adored the hot sexual tension between Mike and Taryn that is present throughout the book.
I picked up Mike's Way Back and was glued to it until the finish, I could not put it down! If there is something I love it's when a book can make me laugh and this one certainly did. It had me laughing out loud several times at Mike and Taryn's banter.
If you like a good love story with a bit of raunchiness that will leave you feeling a mixture of warm and fuzzy and hot and bothered than this is a must read for you!
So to sum up, would I recommend it? Hell yeah I would! I give this book 4 very well deserved stars ****
This was a really sweet, romantic read. I enjoyed the storyline that flowed brilliantly, I fell in love with the characters and I adored the hot sexual tension between Mike and Taryn that is present throughout the book.
I picked up Mike's Way Back and was glued to it until the finish, I could not put it down! If there is something I love it's when a book can make me laugh and this one certainly did. It had me laughing out loud several times at Mike and Taryn's banter.
If you like a good love story with a bit of raunchiness that will leave you feeling a mixture of warm and fuzzy and hot and bothered than this is a must read for you!
So to sum up, would I recommend it? Hell yeah I would! I give this book 4 very well deserved stars ****
December 30, 2013
Review by upallnightreadallday.blogspot.com
Love Mike he's a sexy as hell detective and a total sweetie, he's got some issues he's hiding but what he needs in the love of a good women. Taryn is a blushing, sweet on Mike, total hotty herself or so Mike thinks. Love these two, with their banter and sexy looks, and sweet phone calls. Too cute. Love Andrew and Scott they make the book all that much better, I just want them happy. I want them as my sisters..lol. Red Sox!!! Taryn rocks, that's my team !!! Love Mike's family. Love this book..sweet, funny and awesome...all around great book..5 stars
Love Mike he's a sexy as hell detective and a total sweetie, he's got some issues he's hiding but what he needs in the love of a good women. Taryn is a blushing, sweet on Mike, total hotty herself or so Mike thinks. Love these two, with their banter and sexy looks, and sweet phone calls. Too cute. Love Andrew and Scott they make the book all that much better, I just want them happy. I want them as my sisters..lol. Red Sox!!! Taryn rocks, that's my team !!! Love Mike's family. Love this book..sweet, funny and awesome...all around great book..5 stars
July 9, 2016
This was a fantastic read! Friendship that turns into love- yay!
Mike and Taryn have an instant attraction. But both have their demons and secrets. And quite a bit of distance. So they talk, A LOT. And flirt:) All the while falling for each other. It is a sexy love story. Before they even have sex!
Steam factor- WOW!
They also both have great backup-he has his family and friends and she has the family she has made in Andrew ans Scott. And a surprise friend in the grumpy book store owner Gabby- who also has an incredible story!
HEA story that makes you root for them and love the ending. Cannot wait for more stories from AG- Gabby and Andrew and Scott!
Mike and Taryn have an instant attraction. But both have their demons and secrets. And quite a bit of distance. So they talk, A LOT. And flirt:) All the while falling for each other. It is a sexy love story. Before they even have sex!
Steam factor- WOW!
They also both have great backup-he has his family and friends and she has the family she has made in Andrew ans Scott. And a surprise friend in the grumpy book store owner Gabby- who also has an incredible story!
HEA story that makes you root for them and love the ending. Cannot wait for more stories from AG- Gabby and Andrew and Scott!
November 17, 2015
It's not often that I give five stars, but this story definitely deserves the rating. The author has done a fine job of creating likable, relatable characters that actually touch your heart. The development of the relationship between Mike and Taryn was done naturally and believably...it really was heart warming watching them grow closer and break down each other's barriers with nothing other than love and understanding.
I am so looking forward to continuing to read the remaining stories in the series.
This book was provided by the author/publisher through Netgalley, this review is 100% my own opinion.
I am so looking forward to continuing to read the remaining stories in the series.
This book was provided by the author/publisher through Netgalley, this review is 100% my own opinion.
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