What do you think?
Rate this book
Animal Magnetism #3
Rescue My Heart
Listening Length: 9 hours and 16 minutes
A man and woman with a complicated past find a second chance at romance in this Animal Magnetism novel from New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis.
After a tragic stint in the National Guards, Adam Connelly returns to Idaho and to Belle Haven, the animal shelter he owns with his brothers. All Adam wants is to be alone. Then he opens the door to the past—the woman whose heart he once broke. Still gorgeous, still tough-as-nails, but this time, unusually vulnerable.
Holly learned the hard way to never depend on a man for anything. Now, of all men, Adam is the last one she wants to see, and the only one she needs. Her father has gone missing in the Bitterroot Mountains and she could use someone with tracking skills to help find him.
For Holly and Adam, each with their ghosts, a trek this desperate, this unpredictable, and this intimate, will have its share of risks—including opening their hearts one more time.
A man and woman with a complicated past find a second chance at romance in this Animal Magnetism novel from New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis.
After a tragic stint in the National Guards, Adam Connelly returns to Idaho and to Belle Haven, the animal shelter he owns with his brothers. All Adam wants is to be alone. Then he opens the door to the past—the woman whose heart he once broke. Still gorgeous, still tough-as-nails, but this time, unusually vulnerable.
Holly learned the hard way to never depend on a man for anything. Now, of all men, Adam is the last one she wants to see, and the only one she needs. Her father has gone missing in the Bitterroot Mountains and she could use someone with tracking skills to help find him.
For Holly and Adam, each with their ghosts, a trek this desperate, this unpredictable, and this intimate, will have its share of risks—including opening their hearts one more time.
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 6, 2012
587 people are currently reading
3372 people want to read
About the author
Jill Shalvis
379 books13.7k followersNew York Times and USA Today, and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author Jill Shalvis writes laugh-out-loud, swoon-filled contemporary romance and romantic comedies brimming with madcap adventures, shenanigans, and sexy times (just don’t tell her mom). She’s sold more than 20 million copies worldwide, and when she’s not writing, you can usually find her indulging in coffee, chocolate, or plotting her next happily ever after. She lives in a small mountain town near Lake Tahoe full of quirky characters (any resemblance to the ones in her books is mostly coincidental).
Look for Jill's bestselling, award-winning novels wherever books are sold. Visit http://www.jillshalvis.com for a complete book list and fun blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.
Connect with Jill:
https://www.tiktok.com/@jillshalvis
http://instagram.com/jillshalvis
http://facebook.com/JillShalvis
Look for Jill's bestselling, award-winning novels wherever books are sold. Visit http://www.jillshalvis.com for a complete book list and fun blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.
Connect with Jill:
https://www.tiktok.com/@jillshalvis
http://instagram.com/jillshalvis
http://facebook.com/JillShalvis
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 693 reviews
June 3, 2013
An open letter to 90% of Romance Novel Heroines:
Ladies,
If a man is too "tragic" or "damaged" or his childhood was "too difficult to overcome" and you have to BEG him to be with you, he's just not that into you. You are amazing. You're beautiful, but completely unaware of your charms. You have a smoking hot body, yet are able to eat whatever you want and never exercise. You love all children, animals and elderly people. You're smart, witty and utterly charming.
And yet...here you are OVER and OVER and OVER again, trying to convince some guy that you're worth it. You don't need that kind of drama in your life. Move on. There are better men out there that you don't have to chase, or convince, or ease into loving you. Find someone who appreciates you for who you are!!
And to all the authors that create these books...this story line is SOOOO played. Give us something new, please.
Ladies,
If a man is too "tragic" or "damaged" or his childhood was "too difficult to overcome" and you have to BEG him to be with you, he's just not that into you. You are amazing. You're beautiful, but completely unaware of your charms. You have a smoking hot body, yet are able to eat whatever you want and never exercise. You love all children, animals and elderly people. You're smart, witty and utterly charming.
And yet...here you are OVER and OVER and OVER again, trying to convince some guy that you're worth it. You don't need that kind of drama in your life. Move on. There are better men out there that you don't have to chase, or convince, or ease into loving you. Find someone who appreciates you for who you are!!
And to all the authors that create these books...this story line is SOOOO played. Give us something new, please.
November 8, 2012
4 1/2 Heart-grabbing Stars! An adorable dog, a hot hunky hero, and sexy fun in the great outdoors…it doesn’t get much better than that!!
Adam’s the strong, silent, tortured hero…the kind that I love the best, and oh there was so much to love about him. After serving in Afghanistan and coming home to recuperate after a mission that went bad, he now trains dogs and is a team leader and region coordinator Idaho Search and Rescue. But the memory of what happened while serving in the military still haunts him and he doesn’t allow anyone to get to close. He’s just going about his business, when Holly, his teenage fling and the girl who’s held a tight hold on his heart, asks for his help to find her father. As they make their way through the wilderness to her father’s favorite spots, the feelings they have for each other come simmering to the surface and they could ignite the campfire with the flames coming off them. Adam used his S & R skills to explore every inch of Holly’s body! WOW!!
“When you touch me,” she murmured against him. “I feel it all the way to my soul.”
Holly was sweet, feisty and she’s determined to prove to Adam that not only is she the one for him, he’s the only one for her…he’s a good man, worthy of the love she so wants to give him and deserves to be happy.
The involvement of Adam’s brothers, Brady and Dell, added some familiarity and it was enjoyable to get caught up with them and the women they fell in love with, Lilah and Jade. Of course there were puppies and kittens and horses…oh my…and Gertie, Beans, Peanut, and the adorable Abigail…who’s always one step away from being slathered with orange sauce, but not if Lilah can help it! A real treat for the animal lover, as the setting for the series is Belle Haven, the vet clinic and training center in Sunshine, Idaho. A slice of heaven on earth.
My one pet peeve…the ending. After all I went through with the characters…I felt short changed…I kept looking for more, but it was not meant to be. However, I can’t recommend this book or any book by this author enough. Jill Shalvis never fails to bring charm, humor, and warmth into her books. I always feel a love connection and she’s skilled at writing a steamy scene. She proves time and time again why she is a favorite among adult contemporary romance readers. The formula is always there, but somehow she has the ability to make her characters unique and draws the reader in, with fun dialogue and stories that we want to be a part of.
Milo and Adam...rescue me...PLEASE!!
*ARC courtesy of Berkley Publishing via NetGalley*
Adam’s the strong, silent, tortured hero…the kind that I love the best, and oh there was so much to love about him. After serving in Afghanistan and coming home to recuperate after a mission that went bad, he now trains dogs and is a team leader and region coordinator Idaho Search and Rescue. But the memory of what happened while serving in the military still haunts him and he doesn’t allow anyone to get to close. He’s just going about his business, when Holly, his teenage fling and the girl who’s held a tight hold on his heart, asks for his help to find her father. As they make their way through the wilderness to her father’s favorite spots, the feelings they have for each other come simmering to the surface and they could ignite the campfire with the flames coming off them. Adam used his S & R skills to explore every inch of Holly’s body! WOW!!
“When you touch me,” she murmured against him. “I feel it all the way to my soul.”
Holly was sweet, feisty and she’s determined to prove to Adam that not only is she the one for him, he’s the only one for her…he’s a good man, worthy of the love she so wants to give him and deserves to be happy.
The involvement of Adam’s brothers, Brady and Dell, added some familiarity and it was enjoyable to get caught up with them and the women they fell in love with, Lilah and Jade. Of course there were puppies and kittens and horses…oh my…and Gertie, Beans, Peanut, and the adorable Abigail…who’s always one step away from being slathered with orange sauce, but not if Lilah can help it! A real treat for the animal lover, as the setting for the series is Belle Haven, the vet clinic and training center in Sunshine, Idaho. A slice of heaven on earth.
My one pet peeve…the ending. After all I went through with the characters…I felt short changed…I kept looking for more, but it was not meant to be. However, I can’t recommend this book or any book by this author enough. Jill Shalvis never fails to bring charm, humor, and warmth into her books. I always feel a love connection and she’s skilled at writing a steamy scene. She proves time and time again why she is a favorite among adult contemporary romance readers. The formula is always there, but somehow she has the ability to make her characters unique and draws the reader in, with fun dialogue and stories that we want to be a part of.
Milo and Adam...rescue me...PLEASE!!
*ARC courtesy of Berkley Publishing via NetGalley*
November 13, 2012
4.00 Stars - Contemporary Romance.
After going through a traumatic rescue episode back in Afghanistan, Adam Connelly is now a recovering PSTD victim. Currently living a life surrounded by his brothers and a tight niche of friends, he now works in the S&R when beautiful ex flame Holly Reid tracks him down to help her find her father.
Adam according to me :)
Holly had a big thing for the big bad-ass hunkalicious Adam most of her adult life and has learned the hard way not to involve her heart this time around, ever since he broke it unrepentantly and left for the armies. So when he once again clarifies his stand as being emotionally unavailable, Holly decides to take things in her own hands to make this alpha eat his own words and fall in love with her once in for all!
My Opinion:
Reading a book of Shalvis is like lying back at your favorite couch and eating your favorite dessert with an indulgent and peaceful smile. No stress, no negativity and no urgency involved. Which is why after you finish it, you longingly think of the moment how soon you’ll return to another one next!
Rescue My Heart is easily another winner with Shalvis induced comedy and impeccably penned mouth-watering chemistry. It will make you laugh, make you want to fall in love and make you believe that life is good! Also, the previous characters revisit with charming onsets, offering more leverage to the ‘X-factor’ of the story.
All in all, a great romance experience and a must read for Shalvis fans.
After going through a traumatic rescue episode back in Afghanistan, Adam Connelly is now a recovering PSTD victim. Currently living a life surrounded by his brothers and a tight niche of friends, he now works in the S&R when beautiful ex flame Holly Reid tracks him down to help her find her father.
Adam according to me :)
Holly had a big thing for the big bad-ass hunkalicious Adam most of her adult life and has learned the hard way not to involve her heart this time around, ever since he broke it unrepentantly and left for the armies. So when he once again clarifies his stand as being emotionally unavailable, Holly decides to take things in her own hands to make this alpha eat his own words and fall in love with her once in for all!
My Opinion:
Reading a book of Shalvis is like lying back at your favorite couch and eating your favorite dessert with an indulgent and peaceful smile. No stress, no negativity and no urgency involved. Which is why after you finish it, you longingly think of the moment how soon you’ll return to another one next!
Rescue My Heart is easily another winner with Shalvis induced comedy and impeccably penned mouth-watering chemistry. It will make you laugh, make you want to fall in love and make you believe that life is good! Also, the previous characters revisit with charming onsets, offering more leverage to the ‘X-factor’ of the story.
All in all, a great romance experience and a must read for Shalvis fans.
January 24, 2014
Liked it, didn't LOVE it like I did the first two. I just don't like women who chase after the men. And this heroine wasn't really all that bad but she sure didn't accept that the man she wanted wasn't interested in a relationship. I did get annoyed with Holly telling Adam that she basically knew what he ACTUALLY wanted, regardless of how many times he gently pushes her away. I also really don't like it when a female lead demands to be included in the super dangerous mission that she has no training for...it screams of helpless, naive female. Big pet peeve of mine, and Holly is that chick, insisting on going on a search and rescue through the mountains, which of course, slows Adam way down. Doesn't that seem selfish? Does to me.
However, there were a lot of elements that I liked. I love the dog training aspect. This entire series shows the author's love of all different animals. I adore how the brothers insist on taking care of their mom, even though she gave them away when they were little. They forgive her and despite the awkwardness of their relationship, it has a beauty all it's own.
Jill Shalvis writes cute and fairly lighthearted contemporary romance. She's not my favorite but I always come back for more, so that says something. Sometimes you need a book that gives you just what you expect. And I enjoy this series and her Wilder series in particular.
However, there were a lot of elements that I liked. I love the dog training aspect. This entire series shows the author's love of all different animals. I adore how the brothers insist on taking care of their mom, even though she gave them away when they were little. They forgive her and despite the awkwardness of their relationship, it has a beauty all it's own.
Jill Shalvis writes cute and fairly lighthearted contemporary romance. She's not my favorite but I always come back for more, so that says something. Sometimes you need a book that gives you just what you expect. And I enjoy this series and her Wilder series in particular.
March 9, 2019
I am over it.
Just a couple of examples...
"No, because you drive like a girl."
“You're an attention 'ho, you know that. Like a woman,”
November 21, 2012
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: B+
“Want to know what I think?”
“No.”
She added obnoxious to his [Adam] list of faults. “I think beneath that badass layer of testosterone and Neanderthal tendencies, you’re just a big old softie.”
He slid her a patented steely look. “Testosterone and Neanderthal tendencies?”
She shrugged and reached for her water. “If the shoe fits…”
He shook his head, but his eyes might have gleamed with the slightest bit of amusement as he did. “There’s a fault with your logic.”
“Yeah? What’s that?”
“I’m not soft. Anywhere.”
Adam and Holly had young love, especially on Holly’s part, but Adam was a trouble maker. He was constantly straying down the wrong path and one night of racing caused a man to lose his life. Holly’s dad, who always tried to help Adam, gave him a push toward enlisting and he did. He needed the discipline, the order and he didn’t want Holly to wait for him so he cut things off with her, breaking her heart. Holly went on to marry the wrong man and instead of admitting to her dad and brother that they were right about her bad choice for a husband, she remained separated from him for years and only recently filed for divorce before moving back home to continue her work for her father’s company. Adam’s back too, but he’s working through his own demons after losing half his team in an ambush on a mission. He’s now back home working for search and rescue, focusing on the planning part of the rescue not the actual searching, and trying to move on with his life.
When Holly’s dad goes missing on a hike, she asks the one man she knows can find him to help, Adam. Holly has a lot of hurt to work through, as she’s still angry about how Adam treated her and their relationship so many years ago. Adam doesn’t want anything to do with love or relationships, preferring to keep company with his dog Milo and tolerates his brothers and their significant others interference in his life. He’s not living, he’s lost in the past and closed off to any possibility of love, especially love with Holly, even though she’s the one woman he’s never been able to forget.
Jill Shalvis writes characters that I like, so much. Their humor, the relationship they have with their friends and family, the romance between the hero and heroine, it makes the characters, in this case Adam and Holly, so likable. It’s easy to sympathize with Adam, he’s doing what he can, but still has moments that flash him back to the day his team lost their lives. He has a deep fear of caves and while he’s been able to work through his nightmares, they still get him sometimes. His brothers help him out of the darkness and he surrounds himself with animals, Milo especially, who’s always there by Adam’s side. I loved seeing Holly shake this man’s life up. He’s needs it and she needs him in hers.
I found Holly to be charming. She’s funny, determined and once she makes the decision to stop letting other people decide things that impact her life, she goes after what she wants. She knows she loves Adam, she’s fairly certain he loves her too and she doesn’t let him push her away. I liked her for standing up to Adam, for not backing down and for slowly breaking down all his walls. They’re a sexy couple and they had a great mix of back and forth banter and some incredibly sexy scenes.
The light hearted humor and sarcasm that Shalvis writes so well, is present in Rescue My Heart and I love that balance of romance and humor that she brings to the table every, single time. The characters all have their moments of laugh out loud comments or actions, even the animals all have their own personalities brought to life on page. One of the funniest characters we’re introduced to is Holly’s best friend Kate, who has a major crush on Holly’s brother Griffin. Kate is a very sweet grade school teacher who starts spouting off random scientific facts when she’s flustered, which is almost always when she’s talking to men. I love this woman already and she’s on page for a very short amount of time. Between Kate, Dell and Brady (who delight in giving Adam a hard time), Jade and all the animals, the result is a mix of fun characters who made me laugh and added an extra level of enjoyment.
Shalvis just does contemporary romances right. Adam and Holly give us another sweet, tender and very hot story with just the right amount of humor tossed in. I love seeing an alpha male like Adam deny that he needs or wants love, only to fall hard when the right woman comes along and Holly made sure he did.
Blog rating: B+
“Want to know what I think?”
“No.”
She added obnoxious to his [Adam] list of faults. “I think beneath that badass layer of testosterone and Neanderthal tendencies, you’re just a big old softie.”
He slid her a patented steely look. “Testosterone and Neanderthal tendencies?”
She shrugged and reached for her water. “If the shoe fits…”
He shook his head, but his eyes might have gleamed with the slightest bit of amusement as he did. “There’s a fault with your logic.”
“Yeah? What’s that?”
“I’m not soft. Anywhere.”
Adam and Holly had young love, especially on Holly’s part, but Adam was a trouble maker. He was constantly straying down the wrong path and one night of racing caused a man to lose his life. Holly’s dad, who always tried to help Adam, gave him a push toward enlisting and he did. He needed the discipline, the order and he didn’t want Holly to wait for him so he cut things off with her, breaking her heart. Holly went on to marry the wrong man and instead of admitting to her dad and brother that they were right about her bad choice for a husband, she remained separated from him for years and only recently filed for divorce before moving back home to continue her work for her father’s company. Adam’s back too, but he’s working through his own demons after losing half his team in an ambush on a mission. He’s now back home working for search and rescue, focusing on the planning part of the rescue not the actual searching, and trying to move on with his life.
When Holly’s dad goes missing on a hike, she asks the one man she knows can find him to help, Adam. Holly has a lot of hurt to work through, as she’s still angry about how Adam treated her and their relationship so many years ago. Adam doesn’t want anything to do with love or relationships, preferring to keep company with his dog Milo and tolerates his brothers and their significant others interference in his life. He’s not living, he’s lost in the past and closed off to any possibility of love, especially love with Holly, even though she’s the one woman he’s never been able to forget.
Jill Shalvis writes characters that I like, so much. Their humor, the relationship they have with their friends and family, the romance between the hero and heroine, it makes the characters, in this case Adam and Holly, so likable. It’s easy to sympathize with Adam, he’s doing what he can, but still has moments that flash him back to the day his team lost their lives. He has a deep fear of caves and while he’s been able to work through his nightmares, they still get him sometimes. His brothers help him out of the darkness and he surrounds himself with animals, Milo especially, who’s always there by Adam’s side. I loved seeing Holly shake this man’s life up. He’s needs it and she needs him in hers.
I found Holly to be charming. She’s funny, determined and once she makes the decision to stop letting other people decide things that impact her life, she goes after what she wants. She knows she loves Adam, she’s fairly certain he loves her too and she doesn’t let him push her away. I liked her for standing up to Adam, for not backing down and for slowly breaking down all his walls. They’re a sexy couple and they had a great mix of back and forth banter and some incredibly sexy scenes.
The light hearted humor and sarcasm that Shalvis writes so well, is present in Rescue My Heart and I love that balance of romance and humor that she brings to the table every, single time. The characters all have their moments of laugh out loud comments or actions, even the animals all have their own personalities brought to life on page. One of the funniest characters we’re introduced to is Holly’s best friend Kate, who has a major crush on Holly’s brother Griffin. Kate is a very sweet grade school teacher who starts spouting off random scientific facts when she’s flustered, which is almost always when she’s talking to men. I love this woman already and she’s on page for a very short amount of time. Between Kate, Dell and Brady (who delight in giving Adam a hard time), Jade and all the animals, the result is a mix of fun characters who made me laugh and added an extra level of enjoyment.
Shalvis just does contemporary romances right. Adam and Holly give us another sweet, tender and very hot story with just the right amount of humor tossed in. I love seeing an alpha male like Adam deny that he needs or wants love, only to fall hard when the right woman comes along and Holly made sure he did.
November 2, 2012
Posted on Under the Covers
Adam Connelly returns from a successful S&R where he is finally able to get some much needed rest. However, upon his return, Adam is bombarded by all the things that need to be done at the animal shelter that he and his brothers own. Exhausted from lack of sleep and in a bad mood because of injury he acquired, Adam pushes everyone who wants to help him back, telling others not to bother with him. He can handle himself. But when an unexpected visitor comes back from his past, Adam is caught off guard.
Holly, his teenage love, is in his room, asking for a very big favor. Her father has gone missing in the Bitterroot Mountains and there is only one person able to track him down. Unfortunately for Holly, Adam Connelly is the last person she wants to see again. Laying eyes on him could very well break her heart...again.
Jill Shalvis is having a stellar year! With her fantastic Lucky Harbor series, she is able to transfer readers into a whole new world. I used to say that her Lucky Harbor series was my favorite of her work, but with RESCUE MY HEART, she completely blew my mind. Adam is definitely my favorite of the Animal Magnetism series so far.
The thing about Adam is that he is content with himself. He never lets his true emotions show. He experiences some panic attacks that are normal for someone who has spent time in Afghanistan. Small triggers can set him off, causing him to spiral out uncontrollably. Yet he never asks for help. I loved his stoicism because Holly does a fantastic job of slowly chipping away at that icy exterior, revealing a man worthy of love underneath. Adam Connelly is hands down my favorite hero of the series so far.
Similarly, Holly was the perfect blend of cute and feisty. I loved her attitude towards life and that even though Adam pushed her away, she never let that deter her from what she truly wanted. Shalvis has a true talent of creating dialogue between characters that is sure to make you laugh out loud and warm your hearts. It takes a talented author to set a book in the icy mountains and still have warmth and love infused throughout. RESCUE MY HEART is filled to the brim with laughter and good times. It’s the perfect feel-good read!
But despite the humor and the lightness of the book, Shalvis is still able to bring substance to her books. She addresses real-life conditions that can burden a person’s life, yet she looks at it positively, bringing hope for the readers and the characters. With her words, Jill Shalvis is able to bring forth happiness with all of her books. RESCUE MY HEART is no exception. I love it!
*ARC provided by publisher
Adam Connelly returns from a successful S&R where he is finally able to get some much needed rest. However, upon his return, Adam is bombarded by all the things that need to be done at the animal shelter that he and his brothers own. Exhausted from lack of sleep and in a bad mood because of injury he acquired, Adam pushes everyone who wants to help him back, telling others not to bother with him. He can handle himself. But when an unexpected visitor comes back from his past, Adam is caught off guard.
Holly, his teenage love, is in his room, asking for a very big favor. Her father has gone missing in the Bitterroot Mountains and there is only one person able to track him down. Unfortunately for Holly, Adam Connelly is the last person she wants to see again. Laying eyes on him could very well break her heart...again.
Jill Shalvis is having a stellar year! With her fantastic Lucky Harbor series, she is able to transfer readers into a whole new world. I used to say that her Lucky Harbor series was my favorite of her work, but with RESCUE MY HEART, she completely blew my mind. Adam is definitely my favorite of the Animal Magnetism series so far.
The thing about Adam is that he is content with himself. He never lets his true emotions show. He experiences some panic attacks that are normal for someone who has spent time in Afghanistan. Small triggers can set him off, causing him to spiral out uncontrollably. Yet he never asks for help. I loved his stoicism because Holly does a fantastic job of slowly chipping away at that icy exterior, revealing a man worthy of love underneath. Adam Connelly is hands down my favorite hero of the series so far.
Similarly, Holly was the perfect blend of cute and feisty. I loved her attitude towards life and that even though Adam pushed her away, she never let that deter her from what she truly wanted. Shalvis has a true talent of creating dialogue between characters that is sure to make you laugh out loud and warm your hearts. It takes a talented author to set a book in the icy mountains and still have warmth and love infused throughout. RESCUE MY HEART is filled to the brim with laughter and good times. It’s the perfect feel-good read!
But despite the humor and the lightness of the book, Shalvis is still able to bring substance to her books. She addresses real-life conditions that can burden a person’s life, yet she looks at it positively, bringing hope for the readers and the characters. With her words, Jill Shalvis is able to bring forth happiness with all of her books. RESCUE MY HEART is no exception. I love it!
*ARC provided by publisher
March 1, 2016
After a tour of duty overseas, Adam Connolly returned to the only safe place he had ever known: Belle Haven, Idaho. Stricken with PTSD at inopportune times, he was making a living teaching and training dogs 'search and rescue'. But even now, with the only relatives he had ever loved living close by, he still had a problem showing his emotions.
Holly Reid had a history with Adam years ago. Then he left to join the National Guard without looking back. Holly was deeply hurt. In a nutshell, she married the next available guy. The sparks soon died in her marriage and they separated. But, for one reason or another, they never divorced. Until recently.
Now she needed Adam's help locating her missing father.
Unaware that he had recently been injured, the two were linked again when Holly visited Adam and he responded with a yes. An alpha male, he said he would help her but in the same breath, he told he was going alone. Adam expected her to listen to his voice of reason.
She didn't.
This story oozed pheromones. Jill Shalvis wrote a very predictable plot line but still managed to entertain me. I am reminded, once again, that if I had read the series without a huge gap of time, would I have given the story a higher rating? It helped that various family members played off one another. There were even some funny moments.
I am not sure if it was because Holly talked to herself, asking questions and giving herself the answers. Or Adam's seriousness one minute, then letting his guard down the next. Or the dog, Milo. Yes, that had to be it.
It was mindless fluff: chewing gum for the brain. It was a contemporary romance that you knew how it would end by the time you finished chapter four.
Holly Reid had a history with Adam years ago. Then he left to join the National Guard without looking back. Holly was deeply hurt. In a nutshell, she married the next available guy. The sparks soon died in her marriage and they separated. But, for one reason or another, they never divorced. Until recently.
Now she needed Adam's help locating her missing father.
Unaware that he had recently been injured, the two were linked again when Holly visited Adam and he responded with a yes. An alpha male, he said he would help her but in the same breath, he told he was going alone. Adam expected her to listen to his voice of reason.
She didn't.
This story oozed pheromones. Jill Shalvis wrote a very predictable plot line but still managed to entertain me. I am reminded, once again, that if I had read the series without a huge gap of time, would I have given the story a higher rating? It helped that various family members played off one another. There were even some funny moments.
I am not sure if it was because Holly talked to herself, asking questions and giving herself the answers. Or Adam's seriousness one minute, then letting his guard down the next. Or the dog, Milo. Yes, that had to be it.
It was mindless fluff: chewing gum for the brain. It was a contemporary romance that you knew how it would end by the time you finished chapter four.
January 14, 2013
I found this book okay at best. I had high hopes for the story but the author never took it anywhere interesting. The past history between Adam and Holly was dull and silly considering they were both teenagers. Holly's ex-husband was pulled in awkwardly and simply as a plot device. The big search for Holly's dad was dull as can be and simply a way for Holly and Adam to go to bed right away.
Despite all the angst that was suggested in Holly's life, none of it was explored with any depth. Even Adam's PTSD wasn't hit as well as it could have been.
And what killed me the most was the fact that Holly and Adam hadn't interacted for years, and she goes to him for help finding her missing dad, all her friends and his friends ask about is whether or not they had sex. Apparently because sex trumps everything else. Cringe worthy all around.
Despite all the angst that was suggested in Holly's life, none of it was explored with any depth. Even Adam's PTSD wasn't hit as well as it could have been.
And what killed me the most was the fact that Holly and Adam hadn't interacted for years, and she goes to him for help finding her missing dad, all her friends and his friends ask about is whether or not they had sex. Apparently because sex trumps everything else. Cringe worthy all around.
February 8, 2015
Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you... Adam Connelly!
Sweet baby Jesus, he was built. As a teenager, he’d been lanky lean, almost too lean, though even back then the breadth of his shoulders had indicated he had more growing to do.
He’d come into that promise. He’d filled out in all the right places, leaving his body as good as a body could get, born from a life of outdoor, physical labor. Dark eyes, dark life.
Sweet baby Jesus, he was built. As a teenager, he’d been lanky lean, almost too lean, though even back then the breadth of his shoulders had indicated he had more growing to do.
He’d come into that promise. He’d filled out in all the right places, leaving his body as good as a body could get, born from a life of outdoor, physical labor. Dark eyes, dark life.
January 29, 2019
RECENSIONE QUI: https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/...
Di tutta la serie, questo è il libro che ho preferito di più, sia per i caratteri di Holly e Adam, sia per come l’autrice ha costruito la trama. In Adam, ho visto una malinconia che nei personaggi con una personalità forte e un po’ complicata, mi piace da morire. Ha un passato difficile che lo accomuna ai suoi fratelli e quando ha conosciuto Holly, erano due ragazzini inesperti. Holly, per un po’, è stata la sua valvola di sfogo, l’unica con cui poteva essere se stesso. Fino a quando i problemi della gioventù non hanno rovinato il loro fragile legame. Adam e Holly sono complicati e sicuramente due anime difficili da gestire. I due protagonisti hanno un trascorso insieme: quando Holly era giovane ed Adam non si era ancora arruolato erano fidanzati. E si sono amati alla follia. Cosa sia successo poi, tocca a voi leggerlo. Sono trascorsi molti anni e Adam è tornato a casa a causa di un infortunio e Holly è divorziata da un perfetto idiota. E si odiano. O almeno Holly odia Adam, dopo tutto il dolore che ha passato a causa sua, le resta solo l'odio. Adam, invece, desidera ancora Holly più di ogni altra cosa. Holly e Adam si devono incontrare per questioni d'affari: Adam addestra i cani del padre di Holly. E quando Holly porta alla clinica i cani da far addestrare non c’è modo di fermare Holly dall’aggredire per qualsiasi cosa Adam. È un libro molto ironico, mi sono fatta un sacco di risate in loro compagnia. Holly è un personaggio molto forte e determinato, ha passato la vita ad ascoltare il volere di suo fratello e suo padre e ora vuole fargli vedere che se la cava benissimo anche senza il loro aiuto. Adam non è da meno, ha un carattere molto chiuso, quasi scorbutico. C'è un avvenimento che sconvolge gli eventi e da una scossa alla trama. Il padre di Holly non risponde più al telefono e non è tornato a casa dopo una delle sue sessioni di caccia. Questo allarma Holly, che con l'aiuto di Adam va a cercare il padre. Insieme e da soli. Non c’è bisogno che aggiunga altro. Il libro è scritto in modo molto scorrevole, con scene a luci rosse e a tratti ironico…
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
Di tutta la serie, questo è il libro che ho preferito di più, sia per i caratteri di Holly e Adam, sia per come l’autrice ha costruito la trama. In Adam, ho visto una malinconia che nei personaggi con una personalità forte e un po’ complicata, mi piace da morire. Ha un passato difficile che lo accomuna ai suoi fratelli e quando ha conosciuto Holly, erano due ragazzini inesperti. Holly, per un po’, è stata la sua valvola di sfogo, l’unica con cui poteva essere se stesso. Fino a quando i problemi della gioventù non hanno rovinato il loro fragile legame. Adam e Holly sono complicati e sicuramente due anime difficili da gestire. I due protagonisti hanno un trascorso insieme: quando Holly era giovane ed Adam non si era ancora arruolato erano fidanzati. E si sono amati alla follia. Cosa sia successo poi, tocca a voi leggerlo. Sono trascorsi molti anni e Adam è tornato a casa a causa di un infortunio e Holly è divorziata da un perfetto idiota. E si odiano. O almeno Holly odia Adam, dopo tutto il dolore che ha passato a causa sua, le resta solo l'odio. Adam, invece, desidera ancora Holly più di ogni altra cosa. Holly e Adam si devono incontrare per questioni d'affari: Adam addestra i cani del padre di Holly. E quando Holly porta alla clinica i cani da far addestrare non c’è modo di fermare Holly dall’aggredire per qualsiasi cosa Adam. È un libro molto ironico, mi sono fatta un sacco di risate in loro compagnia. Holly è un personaggio molto forte e determinato, ha passato la vita ad ascoltare il volere di suo fratello e suo padre e ora vuole fargli vedere che se la cava benissimo anche senza il loro aiuto. Adam non è da meno, ha un carattere molto chiuso, quasi scorbutico. C'è un avvenimento che sconvolge gli eventi e da una scossa alla trama. Il padre di Holly non risponde più al telefono e non è tornato a casa dopo una delle sue sessioni di caccia. Questo allarma Holly, che con l'aiuto di Adam va a cercare il padre. Insieme e da soli. Non c’è bisogno che aggiunga altro. Il libro è scritto in modo molto scorrevole, con scene a luci rosse e a tratti ironico…
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
May 10, 2020
Romance that meets expectations with characters that interest you easily, a plot that moves at the right pace to enhance romance, an overall perfect experience that is sexy but vulnerable, tense and compassionate.
June 28, 2015
The third book in Jill Shalvis' Animal Magnetism series. I have been ill the last few days and I don't know if that may have affected my enjoyment of this addition. Rescue My Heart features the romance of Adam Connelly and Holly Reid. They had a thing going 12 years before but Adam left after a tragic accident. Adam is determined not to open his heart to love. Holly was heart broken when Adam left all those years before and she is doing her best to get on with her life. But Holly needs Adam to help find her father and old feelings can't be denied.
While I loved Adam, I didn't love Holly. I liked her well enough, I guess, but maybe I just didn't understand her all that well. I felt the story rolled along a little slow but that could just be me and my weakened fevered mind imagining it that way. Plus reunion/together again type romances are not my favorite theme/plot so that may have something to do with it too. Still, I think it's a keeper and would certainly recommend it to contemporary romance fans.
While I loved Adam, I didn't love Holly. I liked her well enough, I guess, but maybe I just didn't understand her all that well. I felt the story rolled along a little slow but that could just be me and my weakened fevered mind imagining it that way. Plus reunion/together again type romances are not my favorite theme/plot so that may have something to do with it too. Still, I think it's a keeper and would certainly recommend it to contemporary romance fans.
October 19, 2012
5 Blue Ribbon Review + Recommended Read courtesy of Romance Junkies. Full review also available at my blog, TBR Mountain Range. If you agree that there's something so very magnetic about a soldier who has faced the worst that humanity can throw at him, with enough humanity left within to want to heal an abused horse… Who also continues to deny his own happiness because he's so broken that he can't possibly expect another human to endure the non-existent love he has to give… Then you're ready for Adam and the only woman who completes him.
Adam Connelly returns to Idaho to work at the animal clinic that he runs with his brothers, Brady and Dell. Everything that he experienced in Search and Rescue has given him the training he needs to continue to help others who need someone with his expertise. But Adam no longer rescues, so broken from one rescue in a war-zone that he can't forget, haunted by it actually, to the point that therapy may be his only salvation, if he's willing to do it.
Holly Reid is satisfied with her life as it is, working for her father at their ranch, even though the pain from her divorce is a fresh reminder of what she never wants to do again. Relationships are for others who have the ability to forget the pain of being duped not just once, but twice.
But, what if you're thrown together with the man who broke your teenaged heart, when he's the best man to help you find your father, who may be lost or injured in the mountain wilderness? Can Holly push their past history far behind, enough to convince Adam to help her find her dad? Can Adam ignore his PTSD long enough to help the woman he left years ago holding his heart? Can either of them resist the magnetic pull that seems to insist that they belong together?
You really need to read this book to find out what happens next. I loved all of it, but it's a story that needs to be experienced first-hand to understand why this novel and these characters are so addictive.
There was a point in the book when I realized why I enjoyed it so much. Here's this bad-ass former soldier with his tough exterior and silent, dark mystique that's sure to draw women to him like a moth to a flame. Adam runs a dog obedience class and his reactions to his students, as well as their reactions to him, are very telling. If you haven't fallen in love with Adam by this point in the book, I'm betting you will in chapter seventeen. I laughed, and then was awed by how heart-rending a rollercoaster this love story could be.
I chose this book for review because I really love stories about animal shelters. What's not to love about three guys who love animals enough to run a clinic to help them? But more than that, what if they're battle-worn, damaged individuals? I couldn't help but wonder how author Jill Shalvis was going to make that work. What I never imagined was that I'd thoroughly enjoy finding out how. Adam is vulnerable yet tough, and funny because what he experienced at war is very probably beyond anything most of us have ever known or could imagine, and when he jokes, or someone jokes with him, you can feel who he is deep down inside. This hard outer shell, difficult to penetrate, is softened around others just like him because they can let loose and enjoy the moment with a sarcasm and wit born to share with lifelong comrades.
It may take them years of putting up a false façade, never truly loving until the perfect, yet damaged, woman comes along. The kind of woman who can get past those walls built to protect and hide their pain because she knows mind-numbing pain in some way herself.
Adam was lost and hid behind the walls that he built to protect himself as much as protecting others from him, and what he couldn't give to another human being. It's his journey back to living as a whole person with that very strong woman that makes this novel exceptional.
RESCUE MY HEART is a definite re-read for me for many reasons. First, it's part of a series but completely standalone as a mesmerizing romance. I loved the other characters too, so much so that I'll probably read the two books before this one, but by itself, RESCUE MY HEART is an absorbing romance. Secondly, the hero and heroine are both someone I'd like to know. They're brave, yet vulnerable, and perfect for one another. They're adorable together, yet they have a passion for one another that is frightening enough to make them second guess themselves. The push and pull between them throughout their story was everything that I love in a great romantic novel. The sex was very well-written and smoking hot, but it wasn't their sexual escapades that made this novel sizzle. It was the slow build, their magnetic push and pull, that made this a tantalizing romance, but the story, the full story and everything they experienced on a day-to-day basis, combined with the sizzling chemistry, that held my attention and kept me anticipating the gut-wrenching ending. Jill Shalvis makes you feel like you've earned that happy-ever-after right along with her tortured characters. So good, that you may just hang on tighter to those you love.
For a romance that meets expectations with characters that you can easily care about, to a plot that moves at the right pace to enhance the romance, to an overall perfect experience that is sexy, yet vulnerable, tense and compassionate, yet often laugh-out-loud funny, RESCUE MY HEART earns Romance Junkies' five blue ribbons and a Recommended Read stamp of approval for portraying the disparity versus the undeniable attraction between the sexes, that magnetism or spark, that fuels a perfect love story.
Adam Connelly returns to Idaho to work at the animal clinic that he runs with his brothers, Brady and Dell. Everything that he experienced in Search and Rescue has given him the training he needs to continue to help others who need someone with his expertise. But Adam no longer rescues, so broken from one rescue in a war-zone that he can't forget, haunted by it actually, to the point that therapy may be his only salvation, if he's willing to do it.
Holly Reid is satisfied with her life as it is, working for her father at their ranch, even though the pain from her divorce is a fresh reminder of what she never wants to do again. Relationships are for others who have the ability to forget the pain of being duped not just once, but twice.
But, what if you're thrown together with the man who broke your teenaged heart, when he's the best man to help you find your father, who may be lost or injured in the mountain wilderness? Can Holly push their past history far behind, enough to convince Adam to help her find her dad? Can Adam ignore his PTSD long enough to help the woman he left years ago holding his heart? Can either of them resist the magnetic pull that seems to insist that they belong together?
You really need to read this book to find out what happens next. I loved all of it, but it's a story that needs to be experienced first-hand to understand why this novel and these characters are so addictive.
There was a point in the book when I realized why I enjoyed it so much. Here's this bad-ass former soldier with his tough exterior and silent, dark mystique that's sure to draw women to him like a moth to a flame. Adam runs a dog obedience class and his reactions to his students, as well as their reactions to him, are very telling. If you haven't fallen in love with Adam by this point in the book, I'm betting you will in chapter seventeen. I laughed, and then was awed by how heart-rending a rollercoaster this love story could be.
I chose this book for review because I really love stories about animal shelters. What's not to love about three guys who love animals enough to run a clinic to help them? But more than that, what if they're battle-worn, damaged individuals? I couldn't help but wonder how author Jill Shalvis was going to make that work. What I never imagined was that I'd thoroughly enjoy finding out how. Adam is vulnerable yet tough, and funny because what he experienced at war is very probably beyond anything most of us have ever known or could imagine, and when he jokes, or someone jokes with him, you can feel who he is deep down inside. This hard outer shell, difficult to penetrate, is softened around others just like him because they can let loose and enjoy the moment with a sarcasm and wit born to share with lifelong comrades.
It may take them years of putting up a false façade, never truly loving until the perfect, yet damaged, woman comes along. The kind of woman who can get past those walls built to protect and hide their pain because she knows mind-numbing pain in some way herself.
Adam was lost and hid behind the walls that he built to protect himself as much as protecting others from him, and what he couldn't give to another human being. It's his journey back to living as a whole person with that very strong woman that makes this novel exceptional.
RESCUE MY HEART is a definite re-read for me for many reasons. First, it's part of a series but completely standalone as a mesmerizing romance. I loved the other characters too, so much so that I'll probably read the two books before this one, but by itself, RESCUE MY HEART is an absorbing romance. Secondly, the hero and heroine are both someone I'd like to know. They're brave, yet vulnerable, and perfect for one another. They're adorable together, yet they have a passion for one another that is frightening enough to make them second guess themselves. The push and pull between them throughout their story was everything that I love in a great romantic novel. The sex was very well-written and smoking hot, but it wasn't their sexual escapades that made this novel sizzle. It was the slow build, their magnetic push and pull, that made this a tantalizing romance, but the story, the full story and everything they experienced on a day-to-day basis, combined with the sizzling chemistry, that held my attention and kept me anticipating the gut-wrenching ending. Jill Shalvis makes you feel like you've earned that happy-ever-after right along with her tortured characters. So good, that you may just hang on tighter to those you love.
For a romance that meets expectations with characters that you can easily care about, to a plot that moves at the right pace to enhance the romance, to an overall perfect experience that is sexy, yet vulnerable, tense and compassionate, yet often laugh-out-loud funny, RESCUE MY HEART earns Romance Junkies' five blue ribbons and a Recommended Read stamp of approval for portraying the disparity versus the undeniable attraction between the sexes, that magnetism or spark, that fuels a perfect love story.
May 29, 2017
4.5 SOLID...SUCH a great story - as always with any Shalvis :-)
July 1, 2019
A second chance at love for Holly, and her first love who broke her heart, Adam.
Their young romance was cut short when Adam left for the military after some teenage trouble and although Holly was more than willing to wait for him, he cut all ties with her.
Many years later and a divorce for Holly, their paths cross again when she reluctantly asks for his help. Her father has gone missing and she needs Adam's tracking skills to find him.
The two embark on a mountain adventure together, despite Adam's objections, and the attraction between them is stronger than ever. Neither of them is sure if trying to make things work between them again is a good idea, however, since Adam is suffering from PTSD and thinks isolating himself is best for everyone, while Holly knows that he can break her heart again if she lets him.
An enjoyable story that gives us glimpses of the couples from the previous books, as well as the one from the book that follows, Rumor Has It. Since I already read that one, I'll be going straight to Then Came You.
Previous book reviews:
✦ Animal Attraction (Animal Magnetism, #2) ~ ★★★★ (28/09/2017)
✦ Animal Magnetism (Animal Magnetism #1) ~ ★★★★ (10/12/2016)
✦ Rumor Has It (Animal Magnetism #4) ~ ★★★★ (16/11/2015) (*read out of order)
Their young romance was cut short when Adam left for the military after some teenage trouble and although Holly was more than willing to wait for him, he cut all ties with her.
Many years later and a divorce for Holly, their paths cross again when she reluctantly asks for his help. Her father has gone missing and she needs Adam's tracking skills to find him.
The two embark on a mountain adventure together, despite Adam's objections, and the attraction between them is stronger than ever. Neither of them is sure if trying to make things work between them again is a good idea, however, since Adam is suffering from PTSD and thinks isolating himself is best for everyone, while Holly knows that he can break her heart again if she lets him.
An enjoyable story that gives us glimpses of the couples from the previous books, as well as the one from the book that follows, Rumor Has It. Since I already read that one, I'll be going straight to Then Came You.
Previous book reviews:
✦ Animal Attraction (Animal Magnetism, #2) ~ ★★★★ (28/09/2017)
✦ Animal Magnetism (Animal Magnetism #1) ~ ★★★★ (10/12/2016)
✦ Rumor Has It (Animal Magnetism #4) ~ ★★★★ (16/11/2015) (*read out of order)
April 6, 2015
HEA with wet noses.
How could you go wrong with dogs, rescues, hunky damaged souls and patient kind women ? You can't, this book was a cool ride down a river with some rapids thrown in for goose-bump moments. I love this author, she alway tugs at the heartstrings but leaves them in a beautiful bow.
Adam is back from a rescue that left him scarred deep to his soul. His search and rescue went very wrong when his team was attacked. He is back home working training dogs with Dell his Veterinarian brother where he must face his past Holly. Holly was his HS sweetheart, the one he left when he joined the National Guard, the one he broke her heart. She runs into him and old sparks fly, but there is a lot of water under the bridge between them.
These two have some real issues to overcome. Two kind hearted beautiful people who deserve the happiness lost, You can't help but cheer for them and want every moment to end in kisses and love. Very romantic
How could you go wrong with dogs, rescues, hunky damaged souls and patient kind women ? You can't, this book was a cool ride down a river with some rapids thrown in for goose-bump moments. I love this author, she alway tugs at the heartstrings but leaves them in a beautiful bow.
Adam is back from a rescue that left him scarred deep to his soul. His search and rescue went very wrong when his team was attacked. He is back home working training dogs with Dell his Veterinarian brother where he must face his past Holly. Holly was his HS sweetheart, the one he left when he joined the National Guard, the one he broke her heart. She runs into him and old sparks fly, but there is a lot of water under the bridge between them.
These two have some real issues to overcome. Two kind hearted beautiful people who deserve the happiness lost, You can't help but cheer for them and want every moment to end in kisses and love. Very romantic
September 18, 2016
Rescue my Heart is the third book in Shalvis' Animal Magnetism series.
Adam Connelly returns from a successful S&R where he is finally able to get some much needed rest. However, Holly needs Adam to help find her father. They had a thing about 12 years ago, but it ended when Adam left.
I enjoyed this book. I love Jill Shaves and her sweet characters.
Adam Connelly returns from a successful S&R where he is finally able to get some much needed rest. However, Holly needs Adam to help find her father. They had a thing about 12 years ago, but it ended when Adam left.
I enjoyed this book. I love Jill Shaves and her sweet characters.
August 9, 2019
Okay, so this treasure just solidified one of my most unpopular opinions ever (please don't attack me!): Animal Magnetism is by far the best Jill Shalvis series ever. It's even better than the justifiably popular Lucky Harbor and much better than the current Heartbreaker Bay series, which is comparatively "eh" to me.
Review to follow!
Review to follow!
April 4, 2015
Fantastic book. Adam is back in Sunshine after some time in the National Guard. His job there was Search and Rescue and his last mission with them had not gone well. He's been back home for two years, fighting to get back to normal. He's better than he was, but still not where he wants to be. One night he gets a visit from Holly, the woman he'd left behind after high school. He's seen her a few times since he's been back home and it never goes well. Now she needs his help to find her father.
I loved both Adam and Holly. Adam was a screw-up as a teenager, constantly getting into trouble. The one good thing was his relationship with Holly. But when one of his antics caused the death of someone, it was suggested that he join the military and get his act together. Feeling that he's no good for her, Adam tells Holly that he's leaving and won't be back, and not to bother waiting for him. His time away gave him the discipline he needed, but he still feels that he's not good for her. Added to that is the PTSD he suffers from, after a rescue mission gone wrong where he lost half his team. He suffers from nightmares and flashbacks, but is able to use his skills to help with the region's S&R. He trains people and dogs, coordinates rescues, and is there when someone asks for help. He's surprised when Holly comes to him for help finding her father, considering their past. He doesn't want her coming along, but she refuses to be left behind.
Holly is back in Sunshine after years away. After Adam dumped her all those years ago, she went off to college and then married one of her college professors. It wasn't a good marriage, but Holly has her pride. She didn't want to admit her mistake to her father and brother, who had warned her against the man she married. She finally divorced the man, but hasn't told anyone at home. She has come back to Sunshine to help her father run his ranches. She sees Adam now and then, but is still angry with him over the way he dumped her. When her father goes missing and there's a storm on the way, she knows Adam is the only one she can trust to find him.
From the moment Holly shows up at Adam's place, the sparks between them are intense. Holly knows that if she spends time with him she risks falling for him all over again. She also knows that she can't just sit and wait while Adam goes out looking for her father. Adam doesn't want her with him. Since his return he prefers to work alone, and he's determined to keep it that way. Holly doesn't take no for an answer and I loved seeing how she made sure she got her way. Adam isn't happy, but he takes her along. Alone together, the attraction between them builds, but they are also forced to face their pasts. I loved seeing how Adam saw past Holly's tough exterior to the vulnerable woman beneath. He also found it harder to maintain the emotional distance with her that he manages with everyone else. I liked the battle of wills between them as they get to know each other again. The memories of who they used to be come up against who they are now after the changes caused by what life has thrown at them. The sparks flare into passion one night during the search and both have to face what it means to them.
Adam still tries to push Holly away. He considers himself still not good enough for her. With all his issues he isn't willing to get involved and risk breaking her heart again. This time, Holly isn't going to let him be the sacrifice. She knows what she wants and is going to go after it. It was a lot of fun to see Adam fighting his feelings and losing big time. Both of his brothers are there to support him through his PTSD, but they also have no problem telling him when he's being an idiot about Holly. There are some really fun conversations among the three of them as they try to make Adam see the truth. I also loved seeing Holly go all in once she realizes that she still loves Adam and isn't going to let him get away this time. I really liked the way that she tried to show him that he's not the same guy he had been all those years ago. She sees the good man that he is behind the walls that he's put up. But she also has to allow herself to trust him to be there for her. I loved seeing them both finally open up all the way and risk everything to get it all.
I loved both Adam and Holly. Adam was a screw-up as a teenager, constantly getting into trouble. The one good thing was his relationship with Holly. But when one of his antics caused the death of someone, it was suggested that he join the military and get his act together. Feeling that he's no good for her, Adam tells Holly that he's leaving and won't be back, and not to bother waiting for him. His time away gave him the discipline he needed, but he still feels that he's not good for her. Added to that is the PTSD he suffers from, after a rescue mission gone wrong where he lost half his team. He suffers from nightmares and flashbacks, but is able to use his skills to help with the region's S&R. He trains people and dogs, coordinates rescues, and is there when someone asks for help. He's surprised when Holly comes to him for help finding her father, considering their past. He doesn't want her coming along, but she refuses to be left behind.
Holly is back in Sunshine after years away. After Adam dumped her all those years ago, she went off to college and then married one of her college professors. It wasn't a good marriage, but Holly has her pride. She didn't want to admit her mistake to her father and brother, who had warned her against the man she married. She finally divorced the man, but hasn't told anyone at home. She has come back to Sunshine to help her father run his ranches. She sees Adam now and then, but is still angry with him over the way he dumped her. When her father goes missing and there's a storm on the way, she knows Adam is the only one she can trust to find him.
From the moment Holly shows up at Adam's place, the sparks between them are intense. Holly knows that if she spends time with him she risks falling for him all over again. She also knows that she can't just sit and wait while Adam goes out looking for her father. Adam doesn't want her with him. Since his return he prefers to work alone, and he's determined to keep it that way. Holly doesn't take no for an answer and I loved seeing how she made sure she got her way. Adam isn't happy, but he takes her along. Alone together, the attraction between them builds, but they are also forced to face their pasts. I loved seeing how Adam saw past Holly's tough exterior to the vulnerable woman beneath. He also found it harder to maintain the emotional distance with her that he manages with everyone else. I liked the battle of wills between them as they get to know each other again. The memories of who they used to be come up against who they are now after the changes caused by what life has thrown at them. The sparks flare into passion one night during the search and both have to face what it means to them.
Adam still tries to push Holly away. He considers himself still not good enough for her. With all his issues he isn't willing to get involved and risk breaking her heart again. This time, Holly isn't going to let him be the sacrifice. She knows what she wants and is going to go after it. It was a lot of fun to see Adam fighting his feelings and losing big time. Both of his brothers are there to support him through his PTSD, but they also have no problem telling him when he's being an idiot about Holly. There are some really fun conversations among the three of them as they try to make Adam see the truth. I also loved seeing Holly go all in once she realizes that she still loves Adam and isn't going to let him get away this time. I really liked the way that she tried to show him that he's not the same guy he had been all those years ago. She sees the good man that he is behind the walls that he's put up. But she also has to allow herself to trust him to be there for her. I loved seeing them both finally open up all the way and risk everything to get it all.
February 27, 2016
Shalvis has me completely hooked with her Animal Magnetism series, and this novel was no exception to the rule. The character-centric plot held me in its grips from cover to cover. I love how the characters came together after heartache, misunderstanding, and secrets. The way that the plot unfolded allowed me to get to know the characters well as they became reacquainted with both themselves and each other. I enjoyed the growth of character that we experience. It was well and tactfully done without going overboard. Adam’s fight to become the man that he wants to be contrasted with Holly’s realizations about herself in some intriguing ways. At the same time, the chemistry between the couple was off the charts, taking on a life of its own at times. Their similarities and differences make them who they are, also making the relationship all the more real.
Once again Shalvis has created a heartfelt novel that was both emotional and captivating. I loved each and every moment of it.
Once again Shalvis has created a heartfelt novel that was both emotional and captivating. I loved each and every moment of it.
November 21, 2012
Originally posted at Romance Around the Corner
Source: A review copy was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
I’ve been a fan of this series since the first book, and as usual, the most intriguing character always gets the last book. The anticipation was high, and unfortunately the book wasn't as good as I was hoping it would be. But it was entertaining, and the hint to a new couple brought me back to the place I was before reading the book: anticipating the next entry.
Adam and Holly used to be lovers a long time ago, but he left her because they were too young, to save her from himself, etc. The being too young was reason enough to me, but we need more to justify so many years of not moving on. So as you probably can guess, especially if you have read the books, once he comes back he ignores her while she gives him the evil eye (which is Romance code for “I want to have dirty sex with you, but I totally don’t love you anymore so don’t get any ideas”). We know that they should just talk about their unresolved feelings, but Adam is suffering from PTSD and is trying to avoid any type of human contact.
What finally forces them together is her father going missing. Spending a few days together finally makes them talk, and in the process they help each other heal and give their relationship a second chance.
As you can see, there’s nothing new about the story. What makes it shine is Ms. Shalvis’ ability to mix drama with lighter situations. It may not be a complex character study, but it’s not meant to be one. This is a book whose only purpose is to entertain, and I think it succeeds. At least I was engaged by the story and had a great time reading it.
Adam and Holly have great chemistry, but the romance happens fast, and there’s so much heartbreak between them that it was hard for me to believe that they could get over them so easily. He had serious psychological problems, and she was very hurt by the way things ended between them. Yet the first time they spend some alone time, it takes them a couple days to forgive and forget.
There are some great moments between Adam and his brothers, something I love because Jill Shalvis writes the best bromances. There’s also a hint of the next couple, and the moment I met them, I was instantly more interested in them than in Adam and Holly. That’s good for the books to come, but not so good for this one.
Overall it was a good addition to the series, and a must-read if you’re a fan. If haven’t read these books I’d suggest reading them in order, although the all stand alone well. I enjoy this series more than the Lucky Harbor books, and I’m happy to see there’s at least one more book to go. Hopefully we won’t have to wait that long to read it.
Source: A review copy was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
I’ve been a fan of this series since the first book, and as usual, the most intriguing character always gets the last book. The anticipation was high, and unfortunately the book wasn't as good as I was hoping it would be. But it was entertaining, and the hint to a new couple brought me back to the place I was before reading the book: anticipating the next entry.
Adam and Holly used to be lovers a long time ago, but he left her because they were too young, to save her from himself, etc. The being too young was reason enough to me, but we need more to justify so many years of not moving on. So as you probably can guess, especially if you have read the books, once he comes back he ignores her while she gives him the evil eye (which is Romance code for “I want to have dirty sex with you, but I totally don’t love you anymore so don’t get any ideas”). We know that they should just talk about their unresolved feelings, but Adam is suffering from PTSD and is trying to avoid any type of human contact.
What finally forces them together is her father going missing. Spending a few days together finally makes them talk, and in the process they help each other heal and give their relationship a second chance.
As you can see, there’s nothing new about the story. What makes it shine is Ms. Shalvis’ ability to mix drama with lighter situations. It may not be a complex character study, but it’s not meant to be one. This is a book whose only purpose is to entertain, and I think it succeeds. At least I was engaged by the story and had a great time reading it.
Adam and Holly have great chemistry, but the romance happens fast, and there’s so much heartbreak between them that it was hard for me to believe that they could get over them so easily. He had serious psychological problems, and she was very hurt by the way things ended between them. Yet the first time they spend some alone time, it takes them a couple days to forgive and forget.
There are some great moments between Adam and his brothers, something I love because Jill Shalvis writes the best bromances. There’s also a hint of the next couple, and the moment I met them, I was instantly more interested in them than in Adam and Holly. That’s good for the books to come, but not so good for this one.
Overall it was a good addition to the series, and a must-read if you’re a fan. If haven’t read these books I’d suggest reading them in order, although the all stand alone well. I enjoy this series more than the Lucky Harbor books, and I’m happy to see there’s at least one more book to go. Hopefully we won’t have to wait that long to read it.
January 18, 2019
There's favorites and there's the one you liked the least. But saying that Rescue My Heart was my least favorite doesn't mean I didn't like it nor didn't enjoy it. It's just that Adam was one of the most difficult Jill Shalvis's hero to love, but once again, it does not mean he wasn't likable. Let me try to explain it better.
Adam Connelly had a rough start in life. His biological father died and for a while, he and his brother lived with their Native American mom on an Indian reserve but she gave them up when they were still young boys and they've been bounced around before finally finding a good foster home. But Adam was a wildcard and to atone for a tragic mistake of the past, he enlisted on the Army. But going away to save himself broke the heart of the girl he was seeing, Holly. When she was 18, Adam was her father's ranch hand and her first everything. Retired from the National Guard after seeing half of his battalion died when they've been ambushed by enemy fire, Adam is back in Sunshine, Idaho, where his brother and friends found love and happiness. He train search and rescue dogs and he's not big on socializing and keep people at arm's length, but his siblings won't let him be lonely. When her father is still missing three days after going on a hunting trip, Holly ask Adam for his help in searching for him. Adam intent to go into the mountains alone, but that's not how she rolls. She doesn't want to fall for him again, but can't help it, no matter how difficult he can be or how hard he try to keep his distance.
In the book, Adam is described as tall, dark and attitude-ridden. He's abrupt, somber and stubbornly insist on staying away from relationship or connection. Some of it is due to PTSD, some to his past, but also comes from his natural seriousness. Which is why I said he's not the most easy to love hero. But Adam still choose a job where he help people and still have to deal with death sometimes while he could have picked something that wouldn't remind him of it. But I think deep down he have a strong protective instinct and I can't find faults for that, despite all his other faults. Holly was perfect for him because she was just as stubborn but with less intensity. I think it takes a special woman to accept the hero like he is and love him in spite of his attitude, and a strong yet sensitive person to understand him and know how to deal with him. It was pretty cool to see how his brother Dell (one of my favorite Jill Shalvis's hero :p) meddle in his life and deal with his brother's temperament.
And that's with this book that I finish my reread of this series. This author wrote lots of amazing series that I'll never get tired of rereading, but for me, Animal Magnetism is my favorite :)
Adam Connelly had a rough start in life. His biological father died and for a while, he and his brother lived with their Native American mom on an Indian reserve but she gave them up when they were still young boys and they've been bounced around before finally finding a good foster home. But Adam was a wildcard and to atone for a tragic mistake of the past, he enlisted on the Army. But going away to save himself broke the heart of the girl he was seeing, Holly. When she was 18, Adam was her father's ranch hand and her first everything. Retired from the National Guard after seeing half of his battalion died when they've been ambushed by enemy fire, Adam is back in Sunshine, Idaho, where his brother and friends found love and happiness. He train search and rescue dogs and he's not big on socializing and keep people at arm's length, but his siblings won't let him be lonely. When her father is still missing three days after going on a hunting trip, Holly ask Adam for his help in searching for him. Adam intent to go into the mountains alone, but that's not how she rolls. She doesn't want to fall for him again, but can't help it, no matter how difficult he can be or how hard he try to keep his distance.
In the book, Adam is described as tall, dark and attitude-ridden. He's abrupt, somber and stubbornly insist on staying away from relationship or connection. Some of it is due to PTSD, some to his past, but also comes from his natural seriousness. Which is why I said he's not the most easy to love hero. But Adam still choose a job where he help people and still have to deal with death sometimes while he could have picked something that wouldn't remind him of it. But I think deep down he have a strong protective instinct and I can't find faults for that, despite all his other faults. Holly was perfect for him because she was just as stubborn but with less intensity. I think it takes a special woman to accept the hero like he is and love him in spite of his attitude, and a strong yet sensitive person to understand him and know how to deal with him. It was pretty cool to see how his brother Dell (one of my favorite Jill Shalvis's hero :p) meddle in his life and deal with his brother's temperament.
And that's with this book that I finish my reread of this series. This author wrote lots of amazing series that I'll never get tired of rereading, but for me, Animal Magnetism is my favorite :)
January 2, 2013
3.5 Stars
I love Jill Shalvis' books and she is an auto-buy for me. I couldn't wait to read this next book in the Animal series, but I have to say that I was a tad bit disappointed in it. I really can't put my finger on the problem for me, either. The heat between the main characters was there. The story seemed real enough and not unimaginable. The previous characters from the previous books in the series were there too, which is always a good thing. But there was something about Adam and Holly that just didn't fit for me. I wish I could say what that was, but I just can't figure out what it is. I guess there comes a time in every reader's books that they like the book well enough -- they just don't like the characters. That being said, I'm still waiting impatiently for the next book that Ms Shalvis is releasing. In the meantime, I keep my fix at bay by reading her blog on JillShalvis.com. You should try it. You'll laugh just as much as you do at her books.
I love Jill Shalvis' books and she is an auto-buy for me. I couldn't wait to read this next book in the Animal series, but I have to say that I was a tad bit disappointed in it. I really can't put my finger on the problem for me, either. The heat between the main characters was there. The story seemed real enough and not unimaginable. The previous characters from the previous books in the series were there too, which is always a good thing. But there was something about Adam and Holly that just didn't fit for me. I wish I could say what that was, but I just can't figure out what it is. I guess there comes a time in every reader's books that they like the book well enough -- they just don't like the characters. That being said, I'm still waiting impatiently for the next book that Ms Shalvis is releasing. In the meantime, I keep my fix at bay by reading her blog on JillShalvis.com. You should try it. You'll laugh just as much as you do at her books.
November 8, 2015
Two-haiku review:
Third brother damaged
He left Holly years ago
Does she want him back?
Search and rescue dogs
Typical Shalvis romance
Great, deep characters
Re-reading series November 2015
Third brother damaged
He left Holly years ago
Does she want him back?
Search and rescue dogs
Typical Shalvis romance
Great, deep characters
Re-reading series November 2015
March 2, 2018
Rescue My Heart
Animal Magnetism, Book 3
I Picked Up This Book Because: Continue the series.
The Characters:
Holly Reidt:
Adam Connelly:
Jade Bennett, Dell Connelly
The Story:
I love the residents of Sunshine. I won’t say I was thrilled with this couple. Their back and forth wishy washiness got rather tiring however I do think they are well suited.
The Random Thoughts:
The Score Card:
3 Stars
Animal Magnetism, Book 3
I Picked Up This Book Because: Continue the series.
The Characters:
Holly Reidt:
Adam Connelly:
Jade Bennett, Dell Connelly
The Story:
I love the residents of Sunshine. I won’t say I was thrilled with this couple. Their back and forth wishy washiness got rather tiring however I do think they are well suited.
The Random Thoughts:
The Score Card:
3 Stars
November 10, 2020
3-1/2 stars.
I've been waiting for Adam's story since I started this series, and finally got it in book three! This is such a fun series -- the hot guys, the adorable animals, and stories I've enjoyed in each book.
Adam and Holly were involved as teenagers, so their current attraction comes off as believable and familiar. I liked that even though Adam, of course, had to be the "tough guy," his struggle with PTSD was addressed enough to be an integral part of the story without being so serious that it felt depressing to the reader.
On to book four! 😁
I've been waiting for Adam's story since I started this series, and finally got it in book three! This is such a fun series -- the hot guys, the adorable animals, and stories I've enjoyed in each book.
Adam and Holly were involved as teenagers, so their current attraction comes off as believable and familiar. I liked that even though Adam, of course, had to be the "tough guy," his struggle with PTSD was addressed enough to be an integral part of the story without being so serious that it felt depressing to the reader.
On to book four! 😁
April 23, 2021
He spent some time with the military. Now he has brought his battled soul home. Here he works at the clinic with his brothers. He trains dogs for special needs and to work on search and rescue. A wonderful profession. Our heroine tells everyone she is over the way he broke her heart when he left for the military years earlier, but is she?
Now her father is missing and the only person she trusts to help her find him is our hero with his search and rescue dog. Our hero must help her while trying to keep from letting her know how he still feels. Lots of miscommunication which can make you nuts but they finally reach the HEA.
Sweet romance with great characters.
Now her father is missing and the only person she trusts to help her find him is our hero with his search and rescue dog. Our hero must help her while trying to keep from letting her know how he still feels. Lots of miscommunication which can make you nuts but they finally reach the HEA.
Sweet romance with great characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 693 reviews