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Rock Falls #5
Saving Steele
Kennedy Cross had her heart broken early in life. It wasn't someone or something who betrayed her—it was her own body. Despite it being all she’s ever wanted, Kennedy will never know what it feels like to feel her baby’s feet kick from the inside out. Having been pronounced infertile at only eighteen, she redirected her life the best way she could.
Eight years and a degree later, Kennedy is one of the most well-loved first-grade teachers at Rock Falls Elementary School. It doesn’t matter that her college boyfriend left her because he wanted children of his own. She has twenty-two of the most gorgeous six-year-olds who adore her and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Jackson Steele deals only in extremes. He falls victim to manic episodes lasting for days, sometimes weeks at a time, sending him reeling from volatile highs to devastating lows. It’s a living hell just being inside his own mind, and that hell has taken everything he’s ever loved away from him. But what if, this time, it gives him something? An untimely gift from God and a brunette with legs eight miles long will bring him the most unforeseen joy but also his most challenging of tests.
What happens when circumstances of life threaten the one thing both Jackson and Kennedy love? Saving Steele from himself may prove to be too much for Cross to bear.
Eight years and a degree later, Kennedy is one of the most well-loved first-grade teachers at Rock Falls Elementary School. It doesn’t matter that her college boyfriend left her because he wanted children of his own. She has twenty-two of the most gorgeous six-year-olds who adore her and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Jackson Steele deals only in extremes. He falls victim to manic episodes lasting for days, sometimes weeks at a time, sending him reeling from volatile highs to devastating lows. It’s a living hell just being inside his own mind, and that hell has taken everything he’s ever loved away from him. But what if, this time, it gives him something? An untimely gift from God and a brunette with legs eight miles long will bring him the most unforeseen joy but also his most challenging of tests.
What happens when circumstances of life threaten the one thing both Jackson and Kennedy love? Saving Steele from himself may prove to be too much for Cross to bear.
First published February 10, 2016
About the author
Anne Jolin
13 books578 followersI was born and raised in Ladner, a small farm town just outside Vancouver, Canada.
I never expected to be an author. Writing was something that snuck up on me and rooted itself into my life. It was beautiful to discover that love, and I’m truly grateful to say I’ve found my passion.
If I could leave y’all with one thing, it’s that life’s far too short to not live it out loud. Drown in your passions, hold on tight to the things that inspire you, and chase your dreams relentlessly. I can promise you without a doubt that you won’t regret it. I know I don’t.
Mad love,
Anne Jolin
I never expected to be an author. Writing was something that snuck up on me and rooted itself into my life. It was beautiful to discover that love, and I’m truly grateful to say I’ve found my passion.
If I could leave y’all with one thing, it’s that life’s far too short to not live it out loud. Drown in your passions, hold on tight to the things that inspire you, and chase your dreams relentlessly. I can promise you without a doubt that you won’t regret it. I know I don’t.
Mad love,
Anne Jolin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
February 22, 2016
I am always up for reading a story dealing with bipolar disorder but I have several problems with this book. First, it was a little unbelievable the way Jackson and Kennedy got together in the beginning and so quickly and it was also a bit aggressive and inappropriate. Second, the rambling inner monologue of Kennedy got annoying at times kind of like the author was trying too hard to make her funny. But I did like her OCD quirks, the post its and did find myself laughing at times. Third, the way Bipolar disorder was portrayed was just really bad. "Going black" as if it's like a blackout episode or something, and as soon as something bad happened immediately Jackson "went black" and then poof days later "love" brings him back (eye roll). I think the author should have been more informed on the way bipolar disorder really works and that is not it. There are manic periods and depressive periods as well as times when things are evened out and "normal". That rarely happens without medication and therapy neither of which are explored at all other than a passing mention. It's not like blackouts and it doesn't happen at the drop of a hat. It just really bothered me how that part of the book was handled so totally unrealistic and uninformed. I did enjoy most of it for what it was, but it certainly wasn't very deep or thought provoking considering the subject matter that was addressed.
January 28, 2016
5 Bubble Girl Stars!!
February 11, 2016
"When she walks into a room, my soul literally sighs at the return of it's other half." - Jackson
"They say people's hearts skip a beat when they fall in love at first sight. Your heart is so overwhelmed by a rush of love that it stills, for just a moment, forgetting to beat. What they don't tell you is that the person your heart skips a beat for isn't always your soul mate. In my case, it was him. My son." - Jackson
I loved the book. I did not have the pleasure of reading rest of her books in the series since it was my first ...and I'm definately looking forward to read the rest. But damn I must say the chemistry between Jackson and his son and also with Kennedy had my heart pounding vigorously.
"A real man doesn't treat his woman like a subpar human being. He doesn't break her down and leaves her starved for affection. A real man knows you treat your woman better than a queen - you treat her like a God. You worship the ground she walks on and pray at her altar. I want my woman on her knees with the power to ruin me and the knowledge that I'll never ruin her." - Jackson
"I need Kennedy like I need the air to breathe. I'd suffocate without her and often wonder how I survived as long as I did not knowing her." - Jackson
The story takes you through a emotional turmoil and leaves you aching for the characters. I immediately fell in love with Ryker, he was so adoring and cute and only wanted the love of his father. There were incidents in the book which made me cry for all the three characters. The way Jackson went totally black for six days left me sobbing. The way he couldn't handle the loss of his son since his mother, Ronda took him with her. I totally loved the story. There were so many lines which actually touched my heart deeply. I wanna share all the lines. I'm gonna share almost all the lines which touched me profoundly. I adored it. <3 <3
"Honey, you're stuck inside and I can't come in." Leaning down, I rest my forehead against his. His eyes were so haunting. His ghosts flickering amongst the black staring at me. "Bring your demons to the door and I will slaughter them. Deliver me your hell and I will conquer it. Just find my voice and I will save you." - Kennedy
"Ryker and Kennedy saved me and I hadn't even known I'd needed saving." - Jackson
"Jackson might have been alone in his battle, but not in his war.
I was here.
I would fight for him every time." - Kennedy
"Dad and I shared the moons we were born with, and the sky had it's moon, but she was our favourite one of all." - Ryker
"And when I'm big, I want to grow up to be just like Dad and I want to marry a girl who smiles with her heart the way Mom does.
Dad says that Mom and I saved him.
I think he's wrong, though.
I think he saved us." - Ryker
"They say people's hearts skip a beat when they fall in love at first sight. Your heart is so overwhelmed by a rush of love that it stills, for just a moment, forgetting to beat. What they don't tell you is that the person your heart skips a beat for isn't always your soul mate. In my case, it was him. My son." - Jackson
I loved the book. I did not have the pleasure of reading rest of her books in the series since it was my first ...and I'm definately looking forward to read the rest. But damn I must say the chemistry between Jackson and his son and also with Kennedy had my heart pounding vigorously.
"A real man doesn't treat his woman like a subpar human being. He doesn't break her down and leaves her starved for affection. A real man knows you treat your woman better than a queen - you treat her like a God. You worship the ground she walks on and pray at her altar. I want my woman on her knees with the power to ruin me and the knowledge that I'll never ruin her." - Jackson
"I need Kennedy like I need the air to breathe. I'd suffocate without her and often wonder how I survived as long as I did not knowing her." - Jackson
The story takes you through a emotional turmoil and leaves you aching for the characters. I immediately fell in love with Ryker, he was so adoring and cute and only wanted the love of his father. There were incidents in the book which made me cry for all the three characters. The way Jackson went totally black for six days left me sobbing. The way he couldn't handle the loss of his son since his mother, Ronda took him with her. I totally loved the story. There were so many lines which actually touched my heart deeply. I wanna share all the lines. I'm gonna share almost all the lines which touched me profoundly. I adored it. <3 <3
"Honey, you're stuck inside and I can't come in." Leaning down, I rest my forehead against his. His eyes were so haunting. His ghosts flickering amongst the black staring at me. "Bring your demons to the door and I will slaughter them. Deliver me your hell and I will conquer it. Just find my voice and I will save you." - Kennedy
"Ryker and Kennedy saved me and I hadn't even known I'd needed saving." - Jackson
"Jackson might have been alone in his battle, but not in his war.
I was here.
I would fight for him every time." - Kennedy
"Dad and I shared the moons we were born with, and the sky had it's moon, but she was our favourite one of all." - Ryker
"And when I'm big, I want to grow up to be just like Dad and I want to marry a girl who smiles with her heart the way Mom does.
Dad says that Mom and I saved him.
I think he's wrong, though.
I think he saved us." - Ryker
January 31, 2016
If you're looking for me, you'll find me in 'swoon city', right along Kennedy Cross. I mean, where else would I be after finishing the fifth—and possibly my favorite—Rock Falls book, and falling in love with all of Jackson Steele's pieces?!
Oh, man. Kennedy and Jackson are....perfect together. They both need a little work—someone to trust in them, save them, hold them, love them. Accept them, despite the fact that Kennedy's body has betrayed her, and Jackson's mind is volatile. What they find in one another, although some might call instalove, I say is wonderful. It's sweet. Sexy. A little OTT, which I love when it's done well—and here it's done VERY well—and just exactly what I wanted them to be.
I've enjoyed every book in this series, and Ms. Jolin just gets better with each new release. I really wasn't sure where she'd take Jackson's story, given what we'd learned of him in the earlier Rock Falls books. (Side note: This one can be a standalone—especially since Ms. Jolin kindly included the OMG! epilogue from the previous book.) But this author did something amazing. She made a man that could have been a villain into a swoonworthy, heart-pounding hero. He was protective and possessive but he had a soft center—as evidenced by the way he adapted to, and fell for, the people bringing major changes to his life. It—HE—made my heart (and my face) smile. And, ah, my thighs clench. KWIM?
Kennedy, too, managed to make me smile, even as she made me feel. That she was so open, trusting and loving worked well for this story, and softened the sensitive issues that Ms. Jolin touched on. Together with Jackson, Kennedy accessed that part of my heart that just wanted to flail about in a happy place, even through the moments when I wanted to bite my lip and let lose a curse word or five, all because my heart was aching.
So, yeah... I'm definitely a temporary resident of 'swoon city'. I say temporary only because I'll be returning to Rock Falls with a smile on my face and my heart ready to be handed over to the next handsome Anne Jolin hero. A hero in uniform, I hope... ~ Beth, 5 stars
Oh, man. Kennedy and Jackson are....perfect together. They both need a little work—someone to trust in them, save them, hold them, love them. Accept them, despite the fact that Kennedy's body has betrayed her, and Jackson's mind is volatile. What they find in one another, although some might call instalove, I say is wonderful. It's sweet. Sexy. A little OTT, which I love when it's done well—and here it's done VERY well—and just exactly what I wanted them to be.
I've enjoyed every book in this series, and Ms. Jolin just gets better with each new release. I really wasn't sure where she'd take Jackson's story, given what we'd learned of him in the earlier Rock Falls books. (Side note: This one can be a standalone—especially since Ms. Jolin kindly included the OMG! epilogue from the previous book.) But this author did something amazing. She made a man that could have been a villain into a swoonworthy, heart-pounding hero. He was protective and possessive but he had a soft center—as evidenced by the way he adapted to, and fell for, the people bringing major changes to his life. It—HE—made my heart (and my face) smile. And, ah, my thighs clench. KWIM?
Kennedy, too, managed to make me smile, even as she made me feel. That she was so open, trusting and loving worked well for this story, and softened the sensitive issues that Ms. Jolin touched on. Together with Jackson, Kennedy accessed that part of my heart that just wanted to flail about in a happy place, even through the moments when I wanted to bite my lip and let lose a curse word or five, all because my heart was aching.
So, yeah... I'm definitely a temporary resident of 'swoon city'. I say temporary only because I'll be returning to Rock Falls with a smile on my face and my heart ready to be handed over to the next handsome Anne Jolin hero. A hero in uniform, I hope... ~ Beth, 5 stars
February 12, 2016
This story felt really rushed, I wish it was fleshed out much more. There were time jumps all over the place.....they had their first date, then it's weeks later. They had sex (the only kinda detailed sex scene....not nearly enough for this perv) then it was 2 months later. I'd have liked to read about some of that time, them becoming a family. It's too bad, because I enjoy the way Anne Jolin writes, this could have been a really good book.
February 6, 2016
I was so lucky to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 5th book in the Rock Falls Series (One of my favorite series ever)
My thoughts on the first 4 books:
Book No. 1 – Oh my God…Greyson Holt… he’s so hot!!!!! Nobody could ever be hotter.
Book No.2 – Wow, I love Jamison Henley! It definitely can’t get better than that.
Book No.3 – WHAAAAT? Oh, I sooo adore Braxton Bennett. *faint* Absolutely my favorite book.
Book No.4 – Help! I love Jayden King. Love love love him! Nothing will ever surpass the awesomeness that is Jayden King.
So now book No. 5 is about Jackson? Hannah’s ex from the first book? The one she broke up with because of his bi-polar episodes? I’m not really sure if I wanna read a whole book about him. Of course that didn’t stop me from reading it anyway, since I’m addicted to the series.
And Anne totally showed me how wrong I was with my initial opinion because….
JACKSON STEELE?
#OMFG
#ICantEven
#NuffSaid
I’m definitely a resident of Swoon City now. Just like Kennedy.
“He loves me. I’m now a permanent resident in swoon city and I seriously like living in that zip code. I like it a lot.”
The book starts where book 4 ended. Ryker, Jackson’s son, standing at his door looking for his father. The minute Jackson lays eyes on the boy, he’s already in love with him – as are we – and wants to protect him. Since Ryker’s mom is MIA, Jackson keeps the boy. And, of course, since Ryker is 6 years old, he needs to go to school.
There Jackson meets Kennedy, Ryker’s new teacher.
Kennedy Cross, Colt’s sister, is the first grade teacher at the Rock Falls elementary school. She’s a neat-freak. Everything has to have its order and her whole life is thoroughly organized. Post-its are her best friends. Colt is the only family she has. By the age of 18 she found out that she can’t have kids and so her post-it system became a mental compulsion. She lives in her own bubble where she can’t seem to get out of and lets nobody in.
"She is a bubble girl. I loved popping bubbles as a kid."
That is until she meets Jackson Steele. Growing up with parents who loved him, Jackson always got enough affection from his family. They always supported him through his bipolar disorder. Having episodes where he sometimes turns black for days and doesn’t remember anything anymore afterwards. Those episodes decreased since he regularly goes to therapy and takes his medication but he can’t stop them. Despite his illness he kept fighting and became a successful business man, owning his own construction company.
Kennedy and Jackson were made for one another and Ryker just makes both of their lives so much more precious!
Together they have to go through ups and downs but, from the beginning, there’s no doubt that they belong together. And, of course, there’s a happy end.
What I think:
You definitely gonna need this
The prologue (written in Ryker’s POV) already had me crying.
In the end I cried as well, mostly happy tears, though.
And everything in between is just so beautiful.
The first time Jackson sees his son, he knows he belongs to him and fills a hole in his heart he didn’t even know existed. His love for him shows throughout the whole book, from their first meeting till the end.
Jackson’s manic episodes cost him his love (Hannah) back in book one but in one of those episodes he also ‘produced’ the most precious thing in the world… his son.
The first time Jackson lays eyes on Kennedy he also knows that she belongs to him.
It’s so nice to see how they both are so good for each other. Kennedy brings more stability and order in Jackson’s life and Jackson is able to get her out of her bubble.
Jackson usually doesn’t like for people trying to clean up after him but with Kennedy he doesn’t mind, he even likes it.
“Normal men wouldn’t touch that kind of crazy with a ten-foot pole and here I was feeling like I didn’t want that crazy to belong to anyone but me.”
Kennedy really is such a loveable character and you just wanna be her friend.
Jackson also is a guy you wouldn’t mind having around. He’s always there for his friends and ready to fight for the ones he loves.
And Ryker? He’s just downright adorable. He’s so mature for his age but all he ever wanted was to have a family. And he found it in Kennedy and Jackson.
It broke my heart when Ryker was taken away from them and how Jackson completely broke down afterwards.
But it once more showed that Kennedy and Jackson belong together. It was so heart-warming and touching to see how she helped him through his episode and how she got him out of it again. Their love for one another is just so strong.
She will always be there for him and he will always be there for her and whenever she wants to hide inside her bubble again, he’s gonna get her out of it again.
I highly recommend this book to everyone who likes to read a good story.
This book is so beautifully written that you never want it to end. I love Anne’s writing style. It’s so easy and fun to read.
It has happy moments
Sad moments
Funny moments
Sexy moments
Great characters….
There’s so much emotion in this book. It made me laugh out loud, it made me cry, it made me go AWWWW and I also really enjoyed that we get to read more about the characters of the previous books as well.
All in all, it was a GREAT read and definitely gets 5 big fat stars from me.
Now all that is left to say is this
Oh, and Anne, please hurry and bring us Colt’s story soon ;o)
This is the 5th book in the Rock Falls Series (One of my favorite series ever)
My thoughts on the first 4 books:
Book No. 1 – Oh my God…Greyson Holt… he’s so hot!!!!! Nobody could ever be hotter.
Book No.2 – Wow, I love Jamison Henley! It definitely can’t get better than that.
Book No.3 – WHAAAAT? Oh, I sooo adore Braxton Bennett. *faint* Absolutely my favorite book.
Book No.4 – Help! I love Jayden King. Love love love him! Nothing will ever surpass the awesomeness that is Jayden King.
So now book No. 5 is about Jackson? Hannah’s ex from the first book? The one she broke up with because of his bi-polar episodes? I’m not really sure if I wanna read a whole book about him. Of course that didn’t stop me from reading it anyway, since I’m addicted to the series.
And Anne totally showed me how wrong I was with my initial opinion because….
JACKSON STEELE?
#OMFG
#ICantEven
#NuffSaid
I’m definitely a resident of Swoon City now. Just like Kennedy.
“He loves me. I’m now a permanent resident in swoon city and I seriously like living in that zip code. I like it a lot.”
The book starts where book 4 ended. Ryker, Jackson’s son, standing at his door looking for his father. The minute Jackson lays eyes on the boy, he’s already in love with him – as are we – and wants to protect him. Since Ryker’s mom is MIA, Jackson keeps the boy. And, of course, since Ryker is 6 years old, he needs to go to school.
There Jackson meets Kennedy, Ryker’s new teacher.
Kennedy Cross, Colt’s sister, is the first grade teacher at the Rock Falls elementary school. She’s a neat-freak. Everything has to have its order and her whole life is thoroughly organized. Post-its are her best friends. Colt is the only family she has. By the age of 18 she found out that she can’t have kids and so her post-it system became a mental compulsion. She lives in her own bubble where she can’t seem to get out of and lets nobody in.
"She is a bubble girl. I loved popping bubbles as a kid."
That is until she meets Jackson Steele. Growing up with parents who loved him, Jackson always got enough affection from his family. They always supported him through his bipolar disorder. Having episodes where he sometimes turns black for days and doesn’t remember anything anymore afterwards. Those episodes decreased since he regularly goes to therapy and takes his medication but he can’t stop them. Despite his illness he kept fighting and became a successful business man, owning his own construction company.
Kennedy and Jackson were made for one another and Ryker just makes both of their lives so much more precious!
Together they have to go through ups and downs but, from the beginning, there’s no doubt that they belong together. And, of course, there’s a happy end.
What I think:
You definitely gonna need this
The prologue (written in Ryker’s POV) already had me crying.
In the end I cried as well, mostly happy tears, though.
And everything in between is just so beautiful.
The first time Jackson sees his son, he knows he belongs to him and fills a hole in his heart he didn’t even know existed. His love for him shows throughout the whole book, from their first meeting till the end.
Jackson’s manic episodes cost him his love (Hannah) back in book one but in one of those episodes he also ‘produced’ the most precious thing in the world… his son.
The first time Jackson lays eyes on Kennedy he also knows that she belongs to him.
It’s so nice to see how they both are so good for each other. Kennedy brings more stability and order in Jackson’s life and Jackson is able to get her out of her bubble.
Jackson usually doesn’t like for people trying to clean up after him but with Kennedy he doesn’t mind, he even likes it.
“Normal men wouldn’t touch that kind of crazy with a ten-foot pole and here I was feeling like I didn’t want that crazy to belong to anyone but me.”
Kennedy really is such a loveable character and you just wanna be her friend.
Jackson also is a guy you wouldn’t mind having around. He’s always there for his friends and ready to fight for the ones he loves.
And Ryker? He’s just downright adorable. He’s so mature for his age but all he ever wanted was to have a family. And he found it in Kennedy and Jackson.
It broke my heart when Ryker was taken away from them and how Jackson completely broke down afterwards.
But it once more showed that Kennedy and Jackson belong together. It was so heart-warming and touching to see how she helped him through his episode and how she got him out of it again. Their love for one another is just so strong.
She will always be there for him and he will always be there for her and whenever she wants to hide inside her bubble again, he’s gonna get her out of it again.
I highly recommend this book to everyone who likes to read a good story.
This book is so beautifully written that you never want it to end. I love Anne’s writing style. It’s so easy and fun to read.
It has happy moments
Sad moments
Funny moments
Sexy moments
Great characters….
There’s so much emotion in this book. It made me laugh out loud, it made me cry, it made me go AWWWW and I also really enjoyed that we get to read more about the characters of the previous books as well.
All in all, it was a GREAT read and definitely gets 5 big fat stars from me.
Now all that is left to say is this
Oh, and Anne, please hurry and bring us Colt’s story soon ;o)
Shelved as 'just-not-for-me-stay-away-hell-no'
March 30, 2016self note: not for me. my personal triggers. reminder: look at Leonor's review.
February 11, 2016
Anne Jolin is one of the best things to happen to me last year. This series, the characters, the surroundings, the friendships, everything is highly addicting.
This is Jacksons story and like the rest of the books it had me swooning hard and asking myself, why don't I live In Rock Falls?
Jacksons life is thrown the moment he finds out he has a son, he change's from great to better as the chapters flew through my fingers. Well, he thought his life was thrown with his son, but the minute he meets beautiful teacher Kennedy it's thrown again.
This story is beautiful, and refreshing, as life changes for everyone. I recommend not just this story but the whole damn series. Must read.
Anne Jolin is an author you don't want to miss, if you know her, you know her books hold tons of MAD LOVE as she always says! ❤️❤️
This is Jacksons story and like the rest of the books it had me swooning hard and asking myself, why don't I live In Rock Falls?
Jacksons life is thrown the moment he finds out he has a son, he change's from great to better as the chapters flew through my fingers. Well, he thought his life was thrown with his son, but the minute he meets beautiful teacher Kennedy it's thrown again.
This story is beautiful, and refreshing, as life changes for everyone. I recommend not just this story but the whole damn series. Must read.
Anne Jolin is an author you don't want to miss, if you know her, you know her books hold tons of MAD LOVE as she always says! ❤️❤️
February 17, 2016
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Crazy Cajun Book Addicts for an honest review.
Oh my goodness what a brilliant read this book was, it was heartbreaking, funny and romantic.
Its my first book from Anne Jolin and yes I realise this is book 5 in The Rock Falls Series but it can be read as a standalone. What I will say however is that I will now definitely be buying and reading books 1-4 in this series.
Jackson Steele and Kennedy Cross are a pair of lost souls each dealing with their personal demons in different ways but when they are brought together thanks to an adorable 6 year old little boy they begin to help heal each other as they forge to become the family they all so desperately want.
Oh my goodness what a brilliant read this book was, it was heartbreaking, funny and romantic.
Its my first book from Anne Jolin and yes I realise this is book 5 in The Rock Falls Series but it can be read as a standalone. What I will say however is that I will now definitely be buying and reading books 1-4 in this series.
Jackson Steele and Kennedy Cross are a pair of lost souls each dealing with their personal demons in different ways but when they are brought together thanks to an adorable 6 year old little boy they begin to help heal each other as they forge to become the family they all so desperately want.
March 12, 2016
This book started out good, I loved the prologue from the kid's point of view, but it sort of fizzles out for me throughout the middle of it. I felt like everything was rushed, from the heroine's relationship with the hero to the drama with the O/W.
February 23, 2016
“They say people’s hearts skip a beat when they fall in love at first sight. Your heart is so overwhelmed by a rush of love that it stills., for just a moment, forgetting to beat. What they don’t tell you is that the person your heart skips a beat for isn’t always your soulmate. In my case, it was him. My son.”
“We don’t need to have the happy ending that everyone else has, we just need ours, babe. It won’t be the ending where the hero conquers the demons because I’ll always have mine. It won’t be the ending where you get back what was robbed from you, but so what? Sometimes life’s going to win, sometimes were going to beat it and other times, we’ll figure it out. ‘Cause it’s our happily ever after at all costs, Kennedy. You hold on to that and kiss the other shit goodbye. You hear me?” “I hear you, honey.”
Saving Steele is such an incredibly beautiful story. This is one of those stories that completely takes you by surprise and holds your heart hostage. As I sit here typing out this review, I can tell you that I finished this book a few hours ago, and I am still at a loss of words. I don’t think that I have the right words to convey, just how special this book was to me. But, I’m going to try my best and hope in the end, you will see just how much I loved this book……
From the moment I picked up Saving Steele, I was floored. I was not expecting to capture my heart so quickly. But, let me tell you, it did. You see, when we first meet up with Jackson, we discover that a big secret has been kept from him….He has a son. This poor child has had the worst upbringing and has been led to believe that no one wants him and that he’ll never been enough. This couldn’t be further from the truth, seeing as Jackson didn’t even know about his son. Jackson may be a complex man and certainly has issues of his own, but when he sees his son for the first time; none of his issues matters. All that matters is getting to know this precious child and giving him the life that he’s always deserved…..Kennedy has been dealt some difficult cards in her life; the biggest one being that she can’t have children. As difficult as that is for her, she’s channeling that love for kids into teaching. Teaching has become her greatest reward. What she wasn’t planning on, was Jackson Steele. Jackson enters her life like a hurricane and completely turns her world upside down. She didn’t stand a chance and all she can do is just hold on for the ride……
Saving Steele is an utterly beautiful love story. It’s not just a story about romantic love, but also the love you have for your family. Saving Steele is well written and captivating. It pulls you in from the very first page and refuses to let you go. It consumed me and made it impossible to put down. I feel so in love with Jackson and Kennedy, that I easily got lost in their story. The chemistry between the two of them was instant and amazing. I loved Jackson’s alpha male tendencies and how he wan’t afraid to go after what he wanted in love and in life. I loved how fiercely he loved his son and Kennedy. And Kennedy, I loved her strength and determination. She’s been through a lot in her life and some of those things could tear anyone down, but not her. She made the most out of the life that she was given. And the love that she had for Jackson was just amazing. She stood by him in the toughest of times. She stood by him when others would have walked away. The two of them together was just amazing. And the love that they shared for Jackson’s son was even more beautiful to see.
Saving Steele was a quick and easy read for me. The writing is flawless. The story-line captivating. This story took me on a super emotional journey; really pulling at my heart. This story mad me laugh. It made me cry. It made me swoon–boy did I ever swoon. And it made me fall in love. This story was just beautiful from start to finish. Yes, it did have some drama, but the drama worked well with the story, and if anything, it made me love these characters even more. My favorite part was probably the ending. The ending brought tears to my eyes. It was everything and more. To say that I loved this story would be a complete understatement. This book; this story, was utter perfection. It is my favorite work by this author to date and I absolutely can not wait to read more!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
“We don’t need to have the happy ending that everyone else has, we just need ours, babe. It won’t be the ending where the hero conquers the demons because I’ll always have mine. It won’t be the ending where you get back what was robbed from you, but so what? Sometimes life’s going to win, sometimes were going to beat it and other times, we’ll figure it out. ‘Cause it’s our happily ever after at all costs, Kennedy. You hold on to that and kiss the other shit goodbye. You hear me?” “I hear you, honey.”
Saving Steele is such an incredibly beautiful story. This is one of those stories that completely takes you by surprise and holds your heart hostage. As I sit here typing out this review, I can tell you that I finished this book a few hours ago, and I am still at a loss of words. I don’t think that I have the right words to convey, just how special this book was to me. But, I’m going to try my best and hope in the end, you will see just how much I loved this book……
From the moment I picked up Saving Steele, I was floored. I was not expecting to capture my heart so quickly. But, let me tell you, it did. You see, when we first meet up with Jackson, we discover that a big secret has been kept from him….He has a son. This poor child has had the worst upbringing and has been led to believe that no one wants him and that he’ll never been enough. This couldn’t be further from the truth, seeing as Jackson didn’t even know about his son. Jackson may be a complex man and certainly has issues of his own, but when he sees his son for the first time; none of his issues matters. All that matters is getting to know this precious child and giving him the life that he’s always deserved…..Kennedy has been dealt some difficult cards in her life; the biggest one being that she can’t have children. As difficult as that is for her, she’s channeling that love for kids into teaching. Teaching has become her greatest reward. What she wasn’t planning on, was Jackson Steele. Jackson enters her life like a hurricane and completely turns her world upside down. She didn’t stand a chance and all she can do is just hold on for the ride……
Saving Steele is an utterly beautiful love story. It’s not just a story about romantic love, but also the love you have for your family. Saving Steele is well written and captivating. It pulls you in from the very first page and refuses to let you go. It consumed me and made it impossible to put down. I feel so in love with Jackson and Kennedy, that I easily got lost in their story. The chemistry between the two of them was instant and amazing. I loved Jackson’s alpha male tendencies and how he wan’t afraid to go after what he wanted in love and in life. I loved how fiercely he loved his son and Kennedy. And Kennedy, I loved her strength and determination. She’s been through a lot in her life and some of those things could tear anyone down, but not her. She made the most out of the life that she was given. And the love that she had for Jackson was just amazing. She stood by him in the toughest of times. She stood by him when others would have walked away. The two of them together was just amazing. And the love that they shared for Jackson’s son was even more beautiful to see.
Saving Steele was a quick and easy read for me. The writing is flawless. The story-line captivating. This story took me on a super emotional journey; really pulling at my heart. This story mad me laugh. It made me cry. It made me swoon–boy did I ever swoon. And it made me fall in love. This story was just beautiful from start to finish. Yes, it did have some drama, but the drama worked well with the story, and if anything, it made me love these characters even more. My favorite part was probably the ending. The ending brought tears to my eyes. It was everything and more. To say that I loved this story would be a complete understatement. This book; this story, was utter perfection. It is my favorite work by this author to date and I absolutely can not wait to read more!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
February 2, 2016
"They say people's hearts skip a beat when they fall in love at first sight. Your heart is so overwhelmed by a rush of love that it stills, for just a moment, forgetting to beat. What they don't tell you is that person your heart skips a beat for isn't always your soul mate. In my case, it was him. My son."
Jackson meets his 6 year old son Ryker and it was all she wrote. He immediately takes responsibility to care and nurture him while trying to find Ryker's mom, Rhonda. A one night stand that had an unexpected surprise but a happy one that Jackson is over the moon about. Who wouldn't want a man like that? This is where he also meets Kennedy, his son's 1st grade teacher and they are both instantly attracted to each other but have to take it slow because of Ryker and because they both have their past experiences to tell each other.
"Kennedy is challenging, she pushes me and on top of all of that she loves my son in a way that is unique to him and separate from me. My feelings for her couldn't be described as easy but as natural, like I'd been put on this earth to feel this way for her and her alone"
Kennedy has had heartache. She cannot have kids and this put a strain on a past relationship so she is hesitant and I don't blame her. However, you cannot help but fall for someone like Jackson.
"He pushed me out of my comfort zone, but in a way that made me feel protected and safe while he did it"
This is just a feel good kinda story that had me from the get go. It is apart of the Rock Falls series that I haven't had the pleasure of reading but trust me, I am all there. I want to get to know the secondary characters and fall, just as much as I did for Jackson, Ryker and Kennedy.
"I'm a blessed man. Ryker and Kennedy saved me and I hadn't even known I'd needed saving"
Reviewed by Shay from Mommys a Book Whore
Story 5
Sex 4
Overall 5
Jackson meets his 6 year old son Ryker and it was all she wrote. He immediately takes responsibility to care and nurture him while trying to find Ryker's mom, Rhonda. A one night stand that had an unexpected surprise but a happy one that Jackson is over the moon about. Who wouldn't want a man like that? This is where he also meets Kennedy, his son's 1st grade teacher and they are both instantly attracted to each other but have to take it slow because of Ryker and because they both have their past experiences to tell each other.
"Kennedy is challenging, she pushes me and on top of all of that she loves my son in a way that is unique to him and separate from me. My feelings for her couldn't be described as easy but as natural, like I'd been put on this earth to feel this way for her and her alone"
Kennedy has had heartache. She cannot have kids and this put a strain on a past relationship so she is hesitant and I don't blame her. However, you cannot help but fall for someone like Jackson.
"He pushed me out of my comfort zone, but in a way that made me feel protected and safe while he did it"
This is just a feel good kinda story that had me from the get go. It is apart of the Rock Falls series that I haven't had the pleasure of reading but trust me, I am all there. I want to get to know the secondary characters and fall, just as much as I did for Jackson, Ryker and Kennedy.
"I'm a blessed man. Ryker and Kennedy saved me and I hadn't even known I'd needed saving"
Reviewed by Shay from Mommys a Book Whore
Story 5
Sex 4
Overall 5
February 19, 2016
THAT FREAKING EPILOGUE!!!! (Be still my heart!)
Saving Steele gets ALL THE STARS!
I don't know how she does it, but author Anne Jolin gets better with every addition to her Rock Falls series. I had my doubts about Jackson--because he hadn't done himself any favors in previous installments--but he won me over and then some. He's the epitome of an alpha (think: Kristen Ashley) with a softer side, essentially the best blend of both elements.
Kennedy is hilarious. Getting inside her head every other chapter was a real treat--especially her humorous inner monologue. A down-to-earth, benevolent schoolteacher, Kennedy is a likable and endearing character from the very start. Even though list-making and post-it notes function as a coping mechanism of sorts, I could take a page out of her book regarding planning ahead and organization!
The author knows how to write scorching chemistry. I mean, she nails it at every turn. Jackson and Kennedy's first meeting, and all interaction between them thereafter, is perfect down to the very last detail. Kennedy's delightful awkwardness, underscored with sass, is the ideal complement to Jackson's dirty-talking, domineering self.
With all of that said, Ryker really MAKES this book. As I've already mentioned-->THAT EPILOGUE!!
IMO, you can't go wrong with Anne Jolin. Just sayin'.
Saving Steele gets ALL THE STARS!
I don't know how she does it, but author Anne Jolin gets better with every addition to her Rock Falls series. I had my doubts about Jackson--because he hadn't done himself any favors in previous installments--but he won me over and then some. He's the epitome of an alpha (think: Kristen Ashley) with a softer side, essentially the best blend of both elements.
Kennedy is hilarious. Getting inside her head every other chapter was a real treat--especially her humorous inner monologue. A down-to-earth, benevolent schoolteacher, Kennedy is a likable and endearing character from the very start. Even though list-making and post-it notes function as a coping mechanism of sorts, I could take a page out of her book regarding planning ahead and organization!
The author knows how to write scorching chemistry. I mean, she nails it at every turn. Jackson and Kennedy's first meeting, and all interaction between them thereafter, is perfect down to the very last detail. Kennedy's delightful awkwardness, underscored with sass, is the ideal complement to Jackson's dirty-talking, domineering self.
With all of that said, Ryker really MAKES this book. As I've already mentioned-->THAT EPILOGUE!!
IMO, you can't go wrong with Anne Jolin. Just sayin'.
February 21, 2016
such a wonderful story. I fell instantly in love with Ryker and Jackson. Kennedy was so cute and quirky. I recommend a this story!
February 15, 2016
‘Babe. That sounded really good. Like better than a chocolate cupcake after two weeks of dieting good.’
Anyone who read Chasing Henley has been nervous and excited to get ahold of Jackson’s story and the wait was worth it! Kennedy and Jackson’s story is not easy but the great ones never are. The Rock Falls series has quickly become a series I can count on for some amazing alpha action along with a few tears and laughs.
‘I am drowning in Jackson Steele and there is no way I’ll be calling mayday. There is no abandoning ship for me. It’s too late for that even if I wanted to, which I don’t.’
If you have been reading the series than you know that Jackson battles with bi-polar disorder and it has in one way or another affected every relationship he has been in and makes the idea that he can have what his friends have, a true and lasting love, seem like an impossibility. Kennedy, a local school teacher, has had her heart broken. Focusing on keeping her life in order she over organizes to the point of having a post it obsession. Both of these two have so much to overcome but when Jackson’s life is forever changed at the surprise arrival of his son and they are thrust together it doesn’t take long for sparks to fly and soon it is clear that while they both have demons to overcome they are better and stronger together than they ever could be alone.
‘Our fairytale isn’t perfect but it’s ours.’
The absolute best part of this book for me was the slow build. Even when it was clear there was an attraction their focus was on Ryker, Jackson’s son, and his well being first. Kennedy as a heroine was fun and quirky and full of spunk. Jackson having always had bad black outs and issues with his temper during manic phases works hard on controlling it all not for Kennedy (although I in part for her) but for his son. As much as this was a love story about Kennedy and Jackson (and what a beautiful story it was they really were perfect for each other) it was also a story about Jackson falling in love with the son he never knew he had. He would do anything for that boy and from the moment he arrived Jackson was a changed man.
Anne Jolin has gotten better and better as a writer and the depth of her stories show that development. Her books have become ones I open and read immediately when they hit my kindle and I will be here eagerly awaiting the next one!
~miranda
Anyone who read Chasing Henley has been nervous and excited to get ahold of Jackson’s story and the wait was worth it! Kennedy and Jackson’s story is not easy but the great ones never are. The Rock Falls series has quickly become a series I can count on for some amazing alpha action along with a few tears and laughs.
‘I am drowning in Jackson Steele and there is no way I’ll be calling mayday. There is no abandoning ship for me. It’s too late for that even if I wanted to, which I don’t.’
If you have been reading the series than you know that Jackson battles with bi-polar disorder and it has in one way or another affected every relationship he has been in and makes the idea that he can have what his friends have, a true and lasting love, seem like an impossibility. Kennedy, a local school teacher, has had her heart broken. Focusing on keeping her life in order she over organizes to the point of having a post it obsession. Both of these two have so much to overcome but when Jackson’s life is forever changed at the surprise arrival of his son and they are thrust together it doesn’t take long for sparks to fly and soon it is clear that while they both have demons to overcome they are better and stronger together than they ever could be alone.
‘Our fairytale isn’t perfect but it’s ours.’
The absolute best part of this book for me was the slow build. Even when it was clear there was an attraction their focus was on Ryker, Jackson’s son, and his well being first. Kennedy as a heroine was fun and quirky and full of spunk. Jackson having always had bad black outs and issues with his temper during manic phases works hard on controlling it all not for Kennedy (although I in part for her) but for his son. As much as this was a love story about Kennedy and Jackson (and what a beautiful story it was they really were perfect for each other) it was also a story about Jackson falling in love with the son he never knew he had. He would do anything for that boy and from the moment he arrived Jackson was a changed man.
Anne Jolin has gotten better and better as a writer and the depth of her stories show that development. Her books have become ones I open and read immediately when they hit my kindle and I will be here eagerly awaiting the next one!
~miranda
February 16, 2016
Saving Steele is the 5th installment in The Rock Falls Series by Anne Jolin and it’s the one book I would feel 100% comfortable saying that you can read as a standalone. The other characters make minor appearances in this book, so really, I feel like you could go in blind and not have it affect your reading experience. You see, Kennedy isn’t a part of the group we’ve come to know and love, Jackson is. So like I said, when they do make an appearance, it’s completely small. However, I do love this series and would recommend you read them ALL.
This book pulled at my heart and made it ache more times than I can count. I’m a sucker for kids in books and Anne Jolin nailed it with Ryker’s character! That. Kid.
Jackson has been dealt a very crappy hand in life. He lost the girl he thought was the love of his life, all while everyone around him was getting married and having kids. Then, to top it all off, he gets the surprise of a lifetime…literally.
A son.
He has a son he never knew about.
A son that lived with the pathetic excuse of a mother for years. *Cue heartache.*
The way Jackson maned-up and became a father was completely swoon-worthy. Not that it was easy, or even close, but he sure got it down.
“She’s every feeling I’ve never felt.”
Meeting Kennedy wasn’t something Jackson expected, but it was blessing. She was the light in his darkness and everything he didn’t know he was missing. Kennedy, just like the other girls in this series was funny in a dorky kind of way (and I mean that in the best way possible!!). Her post-it notes – OMG. I will be trying that method. Ha! I’m a post-it/organization freak, so I absolutely connected with Kennedy. She was GREAT.
“We don’t need to have the happy ending that everyone else has, we just need ours, babe.”
Their relationship wasn’t perfect, but not because of lame misunderstandings or made-up drama (like in most books!), and I LOVED that. Their “downs” were because they dealt with real problems. Their demons were as realistic as they get and my heart broke for Jackson and Kennedy. However, their love was so pure, it sizzle off the pages.
As always, another fantastic book by Ms. Jolin! I certainly look forward to the next installment in this amazing series!!
4.5 stars
Reviewed on HEA Bookshelf
Amazon ➜ http://amzn.to/1okUloA
This book pulled at my heart and made it ache more times than I can count. I’m a sucker for kids in books and Anne Jolin nailed it with Ryker’s character! That. Kid.
Jackson has been dealt a very crappy hand in life. He lost the girl he thought was the love of his life, all while everyone around him was getting married and having kids. Then, to top it all off, he gets the surprise of a lifetime…literally.
A son.
He has a son he never knew about.
A son that lived with the pathetic excuse of a mother for years. *Cue heartache.*
The way Jackson maned-up and became a father was completely swoon-worthy. Not that it was easy, or even close, but he sure got it down.
“She’s every feeling I’ve never felt.”
Meeting Kennedy wasn’t something Jackson expected, but it was blessing. She was the light in his darkness and everything he didn’t know he was missing. Kennedy, just like the other girls in this series was funny in a dorky kind of way (and I mean that in the best way possible!!). Her post-it notes – OMG. I will be trying that method. Ha! I’m a post-it/organization freak, so I absolutely connected with Kennedy. She was GREAT.
“We don’t need to have the happy ending that everyone else has, we just need ours, babe.”
Their relationship wasn’t perfect, but not because of lame misunderstandings or made-up drama (like in most books!), and I LOVED that. Their “downs” were because they dealt with real problems. Their demons were as realistic as they get and my heart broke for Jackson and Kennedy. However, their love was so pure, it sizzle off the pages.
As always, another fantastic book by Ms. Jolin! I certainly look forward to the next installment in this amazing series!!
4.5 stars
Reviewed on HEA Bookshelf
Amazon ➜ http://amzn.to/1okUloA
January 28, 2016
I received my arc copy of Saving Steele at 8:30 last night. This book has been on my to be read list since I finished Keeping King the fourth book in this amazing series! I even bugged Anne via social media to see how long I had to wait. While she told me the book was very much still a work in progress, I never doubted we would recieve an amazing fifth book. The hero's and heroines in these books are very loveable ( except the times I really wanted to punch Grayson).
Jackson for me started out as a guy I was on the fence about in Chasing Rhodes because of his relationship with Hannah, but in Keeping King you start to warm up to him and his willingness to help his friends. In his own book Jackson really does shine. His relationship with Ryker and his love for him really shows from their first meeting to the end.
(and the last thing I want to do is build his hopes to the level where mine have undoubtedly already soared at the mere sight of him.)
He was honest and upfront with Kennedy regarding his mental health and I really loved the chemistry and dynamic between these two.
Kennedy is a very soft soul and you just wanna be her best friend. I immediately loved her and was cracking up at her craziness.
Her attitude and aceptance towards Ryker is wonderful. The way she dealt with Jackson and his episode really showed how much she loved him and how much he meant to her.
( If his mind came for him again, I would be there. Every time it came for him, it would find me at its gates.)
This book really is a wonderful five star read you get lots of love and laughter, while also getting to catch up with everyone else in the series .
I highly recommend this series and I'm praying to the book gods that we get a book for Colt!
Jackson for me started out as a guy I was on the fence about in Chasing Rhodes because of his relationship with Hannah, but in Keeping King you start to warm up to him and his willingness to help his friends. In his own book Jackson really does shine. His relationship with Ryker and his love for him really shows from their first meeting to the end.
(and the last thing I want to do is build his hopes to the level where mine have undoubtedly already soared at the mere sight of him.)
He was honest and upfront with Kennedy regarding his mental health and I really loved the chemistry and dynamic between these two.
Kennedy is a very soft soul and you just wanna be her best friend. I immediately loved her and was cracking up at her craziness.
Her attitude and aceptance towards Ryker is wonderful. The way she dealt with Jackson and his episode really showed how much she loved him and how much he meant to her.
( If his mind came for him again, I would be there. Every time it came for him, it would find me at its gates.)
This book really is a wonderful five star read you get lots of love and laughter, while also getting to catch up with everyone else in the series .
I highly recommend this series and I'm praying to the book gods that we get a book for Colt!
February 20, 2016
Anne Jolin has weaved a great story about redemption in the latest Rock Fall series, Saving Steele. Jackson Steele was the ex-boyfriend from the first book of the series who suffers from bipolar disorder. He is suddenly thrust into new territory when he discovers he has a six year old child he knew nothing about. Kennedy is the sister of one of the other characters, and her work with children soothes the fact she is unable to have children.
Reading these books is always a treat, and Saving Steele is no different. Jackson needed some sort of peace after the craziness that was his life, and I loved watching him find it with Kennedy. And Ryker? Jackson’s gorgeous son stole the show in my opinion, and was the balm for Kennedy after years of feeling less than worthy. I do wish the story had been longer, because it did seem a bit rushed at times, but that doesn’t take away from the gorgeous story. I would highly recommend this series, and I can’t wait to read more from Anne Jolin!
Reading these books is always a treat, and Saving Steele is no different. Jackson needed some sort of peace after the craziness that was his life, and I loved watching him find it with Kennedy. And Ryker? Jackson’s gorgeous son stole the show in my opinion, and was the balm for Kennedy after years of feeling less than worthy. I do wish the story had been longer, because it did seem a bit rushed at times, but that doesn’t take away from the gorgeous story. I would highly recommend this series, and I can’t wait to read more from Anne Jolin!
February 16, 2016
4.5 Green Stars
Jolin tackles three huge social issues in our everyday life in a sweet and sexy story. She brought light and hope to those who often don't feel it.
This was my first novel by Jolin, but it won't be my last. She wrote a sweet and awesome heroine as well as a gruff and tender hero.
I only wish there had been more. More words. More feels. More everything. Why? Because I really enjoyed it!
I look forward to more stories in this series! Colt, maybe?
If you're looking for a sweet and steamy quick read, look no further. This fairytale isn't without it's bumps, but it's a beautiful ride of joy and love.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
Jolin tackles three huge social issues in our everyday life in a sweet and sexy story. She brought light and hope to those who often don't feel it.
This was my first novel by Jolin, but it won't be my last. She wrote a sweet and awesome heroine as well as a gruff and tender hero.
I only wish there had been more. More words. More feels. More everything. Why? Because I really enjoyed it!
I look forward to more stories in this series! Colt, maybe?
If you're looking for a sweet and steamy quick read, look no further. This fairytale isn't without it's bumps, but it's a beautiful ride of joy and love.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
February 23, 2016
4.5 Smooches Review at Red Cheeks Reads or on our Goodreads
August 19, 2019
To be honest, this book kinda reminded of the previous book I read which was I'd Rather Not, granted without the secret child plot device. Hence, why I'm having a hard time discerning both books right now. Just my luck that both books featured the heroine with some health issues... and the guys too.
But since I'm feeling generous, 4 stars for both!
But since I'm feeling generous, 4 stars for both!
February 10, 2023
This was a decent quick book, but I'm not too sure on how accurate the bipolar portrayal was. From what I've been told, the blacking out thing wouldn't be accurate but maybe it's different for everyone? It felt odd at times and I was a bit uncomfortable with everything that happened during the black out stage.
I do like the Kennedy got to have her little family, and that there was a story of a woman being told she can never have kids and the solution "and magically with this special person it all worked out".
Enjoyable read for what it's worth tho!
I do like the Kennedy got to have her little family, and that there was a story of a woman being told she can never have kids and the solution "and magically with this special person it all worked out".
Enjoyable read for what it's worth tho!
February 13, 2016
Reviewed on behalf of The Book Boyfriend Addict (www.bookboyfriendaddict.com). A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars
“We don’t need to have the happy ending that everyone else has, we just need ours, babe. It won’t be the ending where the hero conquers his demons because I’ll always have mine. It won’t be the ending where you get back what was robbed from you, but so what? Sometimes life’s going to win, sometimes we’re going to beat it and the other times, we’ll figure it out. ‘Cause it’s our happily ever after at all costs, Kennedy.”
What a sweet little book this was! Clocking in at just under 200 pages, it’s easy to read this one straight through and the writing is so engaging that you aren’t going to want to put it down anyway. This was the first book I’ve read in this series but I never felt lost, it was a little tricky keeping track of who was who when we were introduced to all the secondary characters but that didn’t detract from Jackson and Kennedy’s love story at all. I do want to back now and read the other books in the series now because I really enjoyed this one and I’d love to see how all of the other couples came to be in those books!
This book focuses on Jackson Steele and Kennedy Cross. From what I can tell, Jackson has been around since the beginning of the series so I imagine fans of the series were excited to be getting his story. At the start of the book Jackson receives some news that will forever alter the path of his life, it also allows him to cross paths with Kennedy. He is instantly drawn to her and she to him. I love how he just sort of claims her and that’s the start of their relationship. They really were adorable together and I thought they made a great team, especially when their bond is tested later in the book. The little family they begin to build will really warm your heart. If you’re like me and love books that include children, then you’ll definitely want to read this one.
“You don’t need to be afraid to live your life, Kennedy, not anymore. I’ll always be here to catch you.”
Jackson was an amazing man, truly a good guy through and through. Get ready to swoon big time! He had his issues, but I liked that he was dealing with them rather than trying to be all macho about it and ignoring them. He was always honest with Kennedy and I really respected that, about the both of them really, they communicated really well with each other. Jackson was a total alpha male though, he could be bossy at times and he was always protective of those he loved, but he was never a jerk. Well, unless you crossed him or threatened what was his, then all bets were off! He was the perfect blend of bad ass and sweet guy and I really loved him.
It feels like I’m having a little mini heart attack at the thought of not using placemats. I mean, maybe I could live without the knives and forks, but placemats? Surely those are a given in any household. How else does one protect the surface of one’s table, and what about the grease stains? Though I am talking to a man who, up until I put one there, didn’t have a special basket for his bread!
Ha! I loved Kennedy and her neurosis over organization and control! She kept me laughing as she had her mini freak outs over these crazy things. Her and her color coded post it notes system! Of course the reasons these quirks manifested themselves in her personality were a bit sad, but again I loved how Jackson helped her break out of her “bubble”. She was the perfect complement to Jackson, and I loved how natural and easy things were between them. Not to mention the intense chemistry they had!
Truly this had everything I’m looking for in a romance novel. My only gripe is that I wish it was longer!! But it looks like this is the average length of the books in this series. As short as it was though, it never really felt rushed, but I thought there were a few parts that she could have gone more in depth with. All in all though this was the perfect read for when you want to escape for an afternoon. I immediately connected with the characters and was swept up in their story! I have to say, the epilogue was the cutest thing ever! I’m looking forward to going back and checking out the other books in the series now.
“You’re everything, Kennedy. I know sometimes you don’t believe me when I say things like that, but you are, and tonight,” –his fingers trail over the skin above my heart – “I want to see all of what’s in here. I want you to give me all of you.”
4.5 stars
“We don’t need to have the happy ending that everyone else has, we just need ours, babe. It won’t be the ending where the hero conquers his demons because I’ll always have mine. It won’t be the ending where you get back what was robbed from you, but so what? Sometimes life’s going to win, sometimes we’re going to beat it and the other times, we’ll figure it out. ‘Cause it’s our happily ever after at all costs, Kennedy.”
What a sweet little book this was! Clocking in at just under 200 pages, it’s easy to read this one straight through and the writing is so engaging that you aren’t going to want to put it down anyway. This was the first book I’ve read in this series but I never felt lost, it was a little tricky keeping track of who was who when we were introduced to all the secondary characters but that didn’t detract from Jackson and Kennedy’s love story at all. I do want to back now and read the other books in the series now because I really enjoyed this one and I’d love to see how all of the other couples came to be in those books!
This book focuses on Jackson Steele and Kennedy Cross. From what I can tell, Jackson has been around since the beginning of the series so I imagine fans of the series were excited to be getting his story. At the start of the book Jackson receives some news that will forever alter the path of his life, it also allows him to cross paths with Kennedy. He is instantly drawn to her and she to him. I love how he just sort of claims her and that’s the start of their relationship. They really were adorable together and I thought they made a great team, especially when their bond is tested later in the book. The little family they begin to build will really warm your heart. If you’re like me and love books that include children, then you’ll definitely want to read this one.
“You don’t need to be afraid to live your life, Kennedy, not anymore. I’ll always be here to catch you.”
Jackson was an amazing man, truly a good guy through and through. Get ready to swoon big time! He had his issues, but I liked that he was dealing with them rather than trying to be all macho about it and ignoring them. He was always honest with Kennedy and I really respected that, about the both of them really, they communicated really well with each other. Jackson was a total alpha male though, he could be bossy at times and he was always protective of those he loved, but he was never a jerk. Well, unless you crossed him or threatened what was his, then all bets were off! He was the perfect blend of bad ass and sweet guy and I really loved him.
It feels like I’m having a little mini heart attack at the thought of not using placemats. I mean, maybe I could live without the knives and forks, but placemats? Surely those are a given in any household. How else does one protect the surface of one’s table, and what about the grease stains? Though I am talking to a man who, up until I put one there, didn’t have a special basket for his bread!
Ha! I loved Kennedy and her neurosis over organization and control! She kept me laughing as she had her mini freak outs over these crazy things. Her and her color coded post it notes system! Of course the reasons these quirks manifested themselves in her personality were a bit sad, but again I loved how Jackson helped her break out of her “bubble”. She was the perfect complement to Jackson, and I loved how natural and easy things were between them. Not to mention the intense chemistry they had!
Truly this had everything I’m looking for in a romance novel. My only gripe is that I wish it was longer!! But it looks like this is the average length of the books in this series. As short as it was though, it never really felt rushed, but I thought there were a few parts that she could have gone more in depth with. All in all though this was the perfect read for when you want to escape for an afternoon. I immediately connected with the characters and was swept up in their story! I have to say, the epilogue was the cutest thing ever! I’m looking forward to going back and checking out the other books in the series now.
“You’re everything, Kennedy. I know sometimes you don’t believe me when I say things like that, but you are, and tonight,” –his fingers trail over the skin above my heart – “I want to see all of what’s in here. I want you to give me all of you.”
February 16, 2016
Anne Jolin is known for her Alpha men and sweet heroines. Saving Steele is the fifth book in the ‘Rock Falls series’ and has all the right ingredients; an Alpha male, a sweet heroine and a good, not over-the-top storyline. This book lived up to my expectation, I’ve enjoyed it.
Kennedy Cross has grown up with parents who weren’t interested in raising a family. From an early age she knows she wants to have children herself and give them all the love she didn’t get from her own parents. Unfortunately, at the age of eighteen she’s told by doctors she will never be able to get pregnant, never can carry her own babies. Nowadays Kennedy works as a first grade teacher at an elementary school, a job she loves. She has come to terms with her infertility, giving her affection to her students. Her love life is non-existing at the moment, there’s no place for someone in Kennedy’s highly organized world and she believes a man doesn’t want a broken woman. Meeting the father of one her new students gives her hope at something more with a man, a real relationship.
Jackson Steele is a hard working man, he owns a construction company which has started taking off. During his early teens, Jackson has been diagnosed with manic depression, his black as he calls it himself. During his episodes he does all kinds of things, but doesn’t remember what happened when he comes back to his normal self. When a six year old boy arrives at his doorstep claiming to be his son, Jackson vaguely remembers the aftermath of an encounter with a co-worker during one of his blacks. Seeing so much of himself in the boy – Ryker – he immediately falls in love with him and takes full responsibility. The minute he meets Ryker’s schoolteacher, who happens to be the little sister of a good friend, he can’t stop thinking about her.
From the moment they meet each other, both Kennedy and Jackson feel the pull between them. Kennedy – the nice woman she is – offers Jackson to help with Ryker when needed, given the special circumstances. To his shock, Jackson finds Kennedy’s help cute and endearing, he doesn’t mind she re-organizes his house to make it suitable for a six year old. I love to see how Jackson handles Kennedy’s over-the-top organizing, how she slowly learns to let go and learns to live without planning. It doesn’t take long before the couple gives into their feelings for each other, both want a shot at something real.
Besides the main characters, Kennedy and Jackson, I love six year old Ryker. He didn’t have an easy start in life with his mother, but he still is a sweet and curious boy, like a child his age should be. The story of Jackson and Kennedy is sweet, the struggle this couple has to deal with is brought upon by outsiders, the love and feelings they have for another is never in question. What I also need to address; I like the fact the author didn’t pull the ‘infertility – but pregnant anyway’ card. I’ve read this storyline to many times, and I’m glad Anne Jolin chose to write Kennedy’s issues the way she did.
Saving Steele is a great book with easy flow, a sweet, quirky heroine and an Alpha hero. I give this story 4 stars.
~~ Saving Steele was provided in exchange for an honest review ~~
Check out my blog: www.mariekesbooks.com
“They say people’s hearts skip a beat when they fall in love at first sight. Your heart is so overwhelmed by a rush of love that it stills, for just a moment, forgetting to beat. What they don’t tell you is that the person your heart skips a beat for isn’t always your soul mate. In my case, it was him. My son."
Kennedy Cross has grown up with parents who weren’t interested in raising a family. From an early age she knows she wants to have children herself and give them all the love she didn’t get from her own parents. Unfortunately, at the age of eighteen she’s told by doctors she will never be able to get pregnant, never can carry her own babies. Nowadays Kennedy works as a first grade teacher at an elementary school, a job she loves. She has come to terms with her infertility, giving her affection to her students. Her love life is non-existing at the moment, there’s no place for someone in Kennedy’s highly organized world and she believes a man doesn’t want a broken woman. Meeting the father of one her new students gives her hope at something more with a man, a real relationship.
“I watched his lips move as he spoke. They were full, the bottom one distinctly fuller than the top, though the top was shaped in a way that made me want to run my tongue across it before I sat… “Kennedy?” I blink. “Oh, what? I’m sorry.” “You got me?” Did I get him?”
Jackson Steele is a hard working man, he owns a construction company which has started taking off. During his early teens, Jackson has been diagnosed with manic depression, his black as he calls it himself. During his episodes he does all kinds of things, but doesn’t remember what happened when he comes back to his normal self. When a six year old boy arrives at his doorstep claiming to be his son, Jackson vaguely remembers the aftermath of an encounter with a co-worker during one of his blacks. Seeing so much of himself in the boy – Ryker – he immediately falls in love with him and takes full responsibility. The minute he meets Ryker’s schoolteacher, who happens to be the little sister of a good friend, he can’t stop thinking about her.
“He”—I nod toward Ryker but don’t let her hand go—“doesn’t call me dad yet. I haven’t wanted to push.” Her mouth forms a little O and I am sucker punched in the gut by it. Colt’s sister is a knockout and she has no fucking clue.”
From the moment they meet each other, both Kennedy and Jackson feel the pull between them. Kennedy – the nice woman she is – offers Jackson to help with Ryker when needed, given the special circumstances. To his shock, Jackson finds Kennedy’s help cute and endearing, he doesn’t mind she re-organizes his house to make it suitable for a six year old. I love to see how Jackson handles Kennedy’s over-the-top organizing, how she slowly learns to let go and learns to live without planning. It doesn’t take long before the couple gives into their feelings for each other, both want a shot at something real.
Besides the main characters, Kennedy and Jackson, I love six year old Ryker. He didn’t have an easy start in life with his mother, but he still is a sweet and curious boy, like a child his age should be. The story of Jackson and Kennedy is sweet, the struggle this couple has to deal with is brought upon by outsiders, the love and feelings they have for another is never in question. What I also need to address; I like the fact the author didn’t pull the ‘infertility – but pregnant anyway’ card. I’ve read this storyline to many times, and I’m glad Anne Jolin chose to write Kennedy’s issues the way she did.
“I want you to think of me. To think of my hands and those little pieces of paper all over your body and remember how much I love you.” “Jackson,” I whimper his name this time. “You don’t need to be afraid to live your life, Kennedy, not anymore. I’ll always be here to catch you.”
Saving Steele is a great book with easy flow, a sweet, quirky heroine and an Alpha hero. I give this story 4 stars.
~~ Saving Steele was provided in exchange for an honest review ~~
Check out my blog: www.mariekesbooks.com
February 18, 2016
Somebody needs to come and pick me up off this floor because I am dehydrated!
If there is a way for a body to release moisture, this book had me doing it. The tears started falling from about eleven percent into Saving Steele. Tears that continued to roll through my laughing at Kennedy’s special brand of crazy. And then I started sweating. And then I was sliding off my chair. Because holy-fucking-DILF batman! And it all culminated in a big crescendoing ugly cry because that ending… GAH!!
Let me start from the beginning. Jackson is a manic-depressive. Although it hasn’t happened in years, he has episodes which he refers to as ‘going black’. It’s one such an episode his friends are worried about when a six-year-old boy comes knocking on his door claiming to be his son. But instead of losing himself into darkness, Jackson loses himself in the extreme love and sense of protectiveness he feels for this boy.
Kennedy hasn’t had an easy life. Her parents were like strangers to her. Her own body betrayed her and she’s unable to fulfil her dream of having children. But she’s coping. She’s insulated herself in a world of safety, organisation, lists and more post-it’s than a stationery store. She’s OK. She has her brother and her friends and a wonderful classroom full of six-year-olds she can shower with love and attention. But when little Ryker and his dad step into her class, her life is about to be turned upside down.
Can I just stop the review right here to talk about Jackson-motherfucking-Steele? Because god, he is so… forceful, and strong, and funny, and sweet, and muscled and tattooed and so SO filthy! Y’all know I’m not one for the kiddos but you can slice me off a piece of this DILF and smother it in cream because I will lick this man’s skin until I lose a layer off my tongue. The love he has for his son, his inner monologue expressing all his feelings and fears and his attraction towards Kennedy is insane. This man is off the chain with his intensity and I couldn’t get enough. Add to that is ability for telling it like it is, the filthy things that fall out of his mouth and his propensity for rubbing his penis on things and I’m done. Ruined. Dead.
Kennedy was hilarious. I adored her quirk and I even fell for her insanity a little bit. She’s sweet and neurotic and when Ryker and Jackson come stomping through her carefully organised life with their muddy boots and bad dietary choices, her conniption fits made for great entertainment. She was a little goody-goody and a bit naïve sure, but instead of becoming annoying I found it utterly endearing. She also had an inner strength that was admirable and she was fiercely loyal. I thought she was perfect for Jackson. (Though, I’m still taking this bitch down to get to Jackson).
The chemistry between these two burned off the pages and the anticipation drove me crazy. When they finally did get together it was seriously hot. But what got to me most is the love that built between these two and when times got tough, it felt like my heart was being squeezed impossibly tight. But again… that ending. Damn.
This book was beautiful. I loved every word and finished the whole thing in one sitting.
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
If there is a way for a body to release moisture, this book had me doing it. The tears started falling from about eleven percent into Saving Steele. Tears that continued to roll through my laughing at Kennedy’s special brand of crazy. And then I started sweating. And then I was sliding off my chair. Because holy-fucking-DILF batman! And it all culminated in a big crescendoing ugly cry because that ending… GAH!!
Let me start from the beginning. Jackson is a manic-depressive. Although it hasn’t happened in years, he has episodes which he refers to as ‘going black’. It’s one such an episode his friends are worried about when a six-year-old boy comes knocking on his door claiming to be his son. But instead of losing himself into darkness, Jackson loses himself in the extreme love and sense of protectiveness he feels for this boy.
Kennedy hasn’t had an easy life. Her parents were like strangers to her. Her own body betrayed her and she’s unable to fulfil her dream of having children. But she’s coping. She’s insulated herself in a world of safety, organisation, lists and more post-it’s than a stationery store. She’s OK. She has her brother and her friends and a wonderful classroom full of six-year-olds she can shower with love and attention. But when little Ryker and his dad step into her class, her life is about to be turned upside down.
Can I just stop the review right here to talk about Jackson-motherfucking-Steele? Because god, he is so… forceful, and strong, and funny, and sweet, and muscled and tattooed and so SO filthy! Y’all know I’m not one for the kiddos but you can slice me off a piece of this DILF and smother it in cream because I will lick this man’s skin until I lose a layer off my tongue. The love he has for his son, his inner monologue expressing all his feelings and fears and his attraction towards Kennedy is insane. This man is off the chain with his intensity and I couldn’t get enough. Add to that is ability for telling it like it is, the filthy things that fall out of his mouth and his propensity for rubbing his penis on things and I’m done. Ruined. Dead.
Kennedy was hilarious. I adored her quirk and I even fell for her insanity a little bit. She’s sweet and neurotic and when Ryker and Jackson come stomping through her carefully organised life with their muddy boots and bad dietary choices, her conniption fits made for great entertainment. She was a little goody-goody and a bit naïve sure, but instead of becoming annoying I found it utterly endearing. She also had an inner strength that was admirable and she was fiercely loyal. I thought she was perfect for Jackson. (Though, I’m still taking this bitch down to get to Jackson).
The chemistry between these two burned off the pages and the anticipation drove me crazy. When they finally did get together it was seriously hot. But what got to me most is the love that built between these two and when times got tough, it felt like my heart was being squeezed impossibly tight. But again… that ending. Damn.
This book was beautiful. I loved every word and finished the whole thing in one sitting.
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
February 2, 2016
Review by Lisa Kane
Jackson Steele has a successful business, good friends and is in a good place for now. He's gone off the rails with his bi polar and when he's black, things are bad. But for right now, he's good.
He didn't expect his life to change the day he was helping his friends move. A little 6 year old boy showed up at the door looking for him and told his friends he was Jackson's son. Jackson is thrown for a loop by this minature version of himself from his hair to the piercing green eyes. He asks him his name and he tells him it's Ryker Jackson Steele. They have matching birthmarks-a half moon shaped, dark spot above their right hipbones. When Ryker tells him about his mom that prompts a memory of an episode when he was manic and had sex with Ronny Jay, Ryker's mom.
I remembered it because Ronny seduced the black eyed monster she'd had her eyes on for weeks but woke up with a green-eyed regretful boy, the latter of which she did not prefer.
The latter of which still did not want her.
Jackson is determined to make up for the years he was kept away from his son. It's apparent from the clothes he was wearing and his lack of hygiene that he was neglected. Jackson is furious that he was dropped off at a bus stop to make his own way to Jackson. His mom seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth.
"Too many moments were stolen from us, Ryker, but I will spend the rest of my life making sure we never miss another one."
Jackson is getting Ryker settled in his house with him. He has just started school and his friend Cole's sister, Kennedy Cross is his new teacher. She is a bit of a character. She thrives in situations where she has control. Her life is a series of post it notes all planning her next moves. That may have something to do with the fact that she was crushed when she was just 18 and told that she couldn't have children due to her endometrosis. But she's made peace with that fact and the kids that she teaches help to fill the void. But her obsessive need for organization and her "everything in it's place" mentality can be a little much for some people to tolerate.
I learned to cope with the help of both my school counselor and Colt. I worked to redirect my life the best way I knew how. I channeled my love of children into a love of teaching, but still, that surprise took a part of me that I will never get back.
When Jackson and Kennedy meet it's about a little incident where Ryker
lets the class know that his dad has a big penis to pee with and he is looking forward to that too! Kennedy can't bring herself to say the word Penis so she writes it down on one of her trusty post it notes. Jackson enjoys her discomfort.
"My dad stands up to pee-pee because he has a big penis. He said that one day when I'm older, I'll be able to stand up to pee-pee too because I'll have a big penis."
Jackson needs to ask a few favors from Kennedy to help with Ryker. As different as these two are, both are attracted to one another. Jackson thinks she's slightly weird, but that doesn't stop him from wanting her.
She, oddly enough reminds me of that old movie with John Travolta in it, The Boy in the Plastic Bubble or some shit like that....She is equally as dramatic as the boy in the movie, and talking to me was clearly out of her comfort zone, her bubble world.
There's lots of drama and steam in this story. Jackson might want to push his dark side way down inside him, but eventually it will percolate to the surface. Will that push Kennedy away? Kennedy has her reasons why she must stay in such tight control but will she be able to ease up and let a little chaos into her life?
This has been a great series, lots of different personalities, different story lines with angst and hot sex and good friends!
Jackson Steele has a successful business, good friends and is in a good place for now. He's gone off the rails with his bi polar and when he's black, things are bad. But for right now, he's good.
He didn't expect his life to change the day he was helping his friends move. A little 6 year old boy showed up at the door looking for him and told his friends he was Jackson's son. Jackson is thrown for a loop by this minature version of himself from his hair to the piercing green eyes. He asks him his name and he tells him it's Ryker Jackson Steele. They have matching birthmarks-a half moon shaped, dark spot above their right hipbones. When Ryker tells him about his mom that prompts a memory of an episode when he was manic and had sex with Ronny Jay, Ryker's mom.
I remembered it because Ronny seduced the black eyed monster she'd had her eyes on for weeks but woke up with a green-eyed regretful boy, the latter of which she did not prefer.
The latter of which still did not want her.
Jackson is determined to make up for the years he was kept away from his son. It's apparent from the clothes he was wearing and his lack of hygiene that he was neglected. Jackson is furious that he was dropped off at a bus stop to make his own way to Jackson. His mom seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth.
"Too many moments were stolen from us, Ryker, but I will spend the rest of my life making sure we never miss another one."
Jackson is getting Ryker settled in his house with him. He has just started school and his friend Cole's sister, Kennedy Cross is his new teacher. She is a bit of a character. She thrives in situations where she has control. Her life is a series of post it notes all planning her next moves. That may have something to do with the fact that she was crushed when she was just 18 and told that she couldn't have children due to her endometrosis. But she's made peace with that fact and the kids that she teaches help to fill the void. But her obsessive need for organization and her "everything in it's place" mentality can be a little much for some people to tolerate.
I learned to cope with the help of both my school counselor and Colt. I worked to redirect my life the best way I knew how. I channeled my love of children into a love of teaching, but still, that surprise took a part of me that I will never get back.
When Jackson and Kennedy meet it's about a little incident where Ryker
lets the class know that his dad has a big penis to pee with and he is looking forward to that too! Kennedy can't bring herself to say the word Penis so she writes it down on one of her trusty post it notes. Jackson enjoys her discomfort.
"My dad stands up to pee-pee because he has a big penis. He said that one day when I'm older, I'll be able to stand up to pee-pee too because I'll have a big penis."
Jackson needs to ask a few favors from Kennedy to help with Ryker. As different as these two are, both are attracted to one another. Jackson thinks she's slightly weird, but that doesn't stop him from wanting her.
She, oddly enough reminds me of that old movie with John Travolta in it, The Boy in the Plastic Bubble or some shit like that....She is equally as dramatic as the boy in the movie, and talking to me was clearly out of her comfort zone, her bubble world.
There's lots of drama and steam in this story. Jackson might want to push his dark side way down inside him, but eventually it will percolate to the surface. Will that push Kennedy away? Kennedy has her reasons why she must stay in such tight control but will she be able to ease up and let a little chaos into her life?
This has been a great series, lots of different personalities, different story lines with angst and hot sex and good friends!
February 19, 2016
ERIN'S REVIEW
6 STARS
OMG!!! The ugly cry going on right now! I am writing this review through my tears as I try to wrap my head around the beautiful piece of work I have just read. I have to say this is my first book by this author, but I will definitely be one-clicking the first 4 books in this series as soon as I am done with this review. It was that EPIC. This book was an emotional roller coaster from the beginning. I love Jackson, Kennedy and Ryker. This story has everything you could ever want in a book. Drama, lust, love, fear, plot twists, suspense, you name it. As I sit here and have a cup of hot tea and a cigarette (needed because this book is better than the best kind of sex), I am still so engrossed in these characters. Their story is one for the ages. Kennedy and Jackson both have traumatic events in their pasts that have shaped them into the people they are today. They both have quirks and demons they have to battle every day. But they do it together. I love that their connection was strong from the start. There was never any question on whether they would be together. These two are so strong, yet so vulnerable. The love these two have for each other and Ryker is a truly beautiful thing to be a part of. I cried throughout most of this story. Don’t get me wrong, there were several humorous parts that had me laughing, but the emotional current in this book will not be denied. I cried at different parts for different reasons. I am so glad that I was able to read this book as it has left an imprint on my soul and will likely remain there forever.
SAM'S REVIEW
4.5 STARS
I have been a huge fan of Anne Jolin since my one of my reader friends recommended her 'Rock Falls Series' to me earlier last year. I jumped into those books both feet first and fell HARD. There is something special about those hot alpha men and the beautiful heroines that accompany them.
Saving Steele is book #5 in the Rock Falls Series and it is Jackson's story. I had no idea what to expect. Who would be the beauty to capture his heart? What would his story bring to the series? Just how alpha would this guy be? Let me tell you this...OH MY SWEET BABY JESUS, I was not disappointed...AT ALL!
This story touches on sensitive subjects that break you heart, and hurt deep in your soul. But the sexy, sweet, deep love and connection between the characters outweighs the bad, making this book another beautiful addition to the series.
Jackson Steele is successful in his job, is surrounded by great friends and a supportive family, but suffers with bipolar. Jackson has to face black days and bad turns which can leave him in a state of darkness for days. A knock at his door turns his world completely on it's axis, but completes him more than anything.
Kennedy Cross is so freaking adorable. Her obsessive ways, her hilarious inner monologue, and sweet heart are just a few things I adore about this first grade teacher and her character. Jackson steamrolls into her life and being the alpha that he is, takes full control of the whole situation. He knows what he wants, he sets out to get it and she had damn well better go along with the whole thing. She is a bubble girl and Jackson cannot wait to pop her...EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEPPPP!!
Alone, these characters are amazing, but together, they are everything. The love, the support, the connection and the intensity is just beautiful.
The addition of Ryker to the story made it the sweetest. The little boy captured my heart, his innocence, the things he has suffered, and the things he missed out on, made me hurt so much. I don't want to go into too much depth of this in my review because it will give away a lot of the story and that is not my intention.
If you want a quick read, that holds heart, passion and unforgettable characters this book needs to be on your reading device as soon as possible.
6 STARS
OMG!!! The ugly cry going on right now! I am writing this review through my tears as I try to wrap my head around the beautiful piece of work I have just read. I have to say this is my first book by this author, but I will definitely be one-clicking the first 4 books in this series as soon as I am done with this review. It was that EPIC. This book was an emotional roller coaster from the beginning. I love Jackson, Kennedy and Ryker. This story has everything you could ever want in a book. Drama, lust, love, fear, plot twists, suspense, you name it. As I sit here and have a cup of hot tea and a cigarette (needed because this book is better than the best kind of sex), I am still so engrossed in these characters. Their story is one for the ages. Kennedy and Jackson both have traumatic events in their pasts that have shaped them into the people they are today. They both have quirks and demons they have to battle every day. But they do it together. I love that their connection was strong from the start. There was never any question on whether they would be together. These two are so strong, yet so vulnerable. The love these two have for each other and Ryker is a truly beautiful thing to be a part of. I cried throughout most of this story. Don’t get me wrong, there were several humorous parts that had me laughing, but the emotional current in this book will not be denied. I cried at different parts for different reasons. I am so glad that I was able to read this book as it has left an imprint on my soul and will likely remain there forever.
SAM'S REVIEW
4.5 STARS
I have been a huge fan of Anne Jolin since my one of my reader friends recommended her 'Rock Falls Series' to me earlier last year. I jumped into those books both feet first and fell HARD. There is something special about those hot alpha men and the beautiful heroines that accompany them.
Saving Steele is book #5 in the Rock Falls Series and it is Jackson's story. I had no idea what to expect. Who would be the beauty to capture his heart? What would his story bring to the series? Just how alpha would this guy be? Let me tell you this...OH MY SWEET BABY JESUS, I was not disappointed...AT ALL!
This story touches on sensitive subjects that break you heart, and hurt deep in your soul. But the sexy, sweet, deep love and connection between the characters outweighs the bad, making this book another beautiful addition to the series.
Jackson Steele is successful in his job, is surrounded by great friends and a supportive family, but suffers with bipolar. Jackson has to face black days and bad turns which can leave him in a state of darkness for days. A knock at his door turns his world completely on it's axis, but completes him more than anything.
Kennedy Cross is so freaking adorable. Her obsessive ways, her hilarious inner monologue, and sweet heart are just a few things I adore about this first grade teacher and her character. Jackson steamrolls into her life and being the alpha that he is, takes full control of the whole situation. He knows what he wants, he sets out to get it and she had damn well better go along with the whole thing. She is a bubble girl and Jackson cannot wait to pop her...EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEPPPP!!
Alone, these characters are amazing, but together, they are everything. The love, the support, the connection and the intensity is just beautiful.
The addition of Ryker to the story made it the sweetest. The little boy captured my heart, his innocence, the things he has suffered, and the things he missed out on, made me hurt so much. I don't want to go into too much depth of this in my review because it will give away a lot of the story and that is not my intention.
If you want a quick read, that holds heart, passion and unforgettable characters this book needs to be on your reading device as soon as possible.
February 3, 2016
Title:Saving Steele
Author: Anne Jolin
Series: Rock Falls Series, Book #5
Publisher:
Release Date: February 10, 2016
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance
Page Count:
Heat Level: 5 flames out of 5
Rating: # stars out of 5
Blurb:
“He came to my rescue (not that us modern day women don’t know how to rescue ourselves, but from time to time, it’s nice to know you don’t always have to). He didn’t shelter me. He called me on my introverted world (much to my dislike). He pushed me out of my comfort zone, but in a way that made me feel protected and safe while he did it.”
5 Save me stars!!! In love….in love with the story, in love with Jackson, in love with Kennedy…..
I can’t even put into words how much I’ve fallen for this book!! I hated that it ended but I wanted to keep reading to see what was going to happen. Readers worst nightmare really. Jackson and Kennedy are perfect…..absolutely perfect together, their chemistry, their story, their passion. I think every couple should strive to be these two. What an amazing book, I’m so honored to have read this book!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
PLOT: 5
CHEMISTRY: 5
PACING: 5
ENDING: 5
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5
Author: Anne Jolin
Series: Rock Falls Series, Book #5
Publisher:
Release Date: February 10, 2016
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance
Page Count:
Heat Level: 5 flames out of 5
Rating: # stars out of 5
Blurb:
Kennedy Cross had her heart broken early in life. It wasn't someone or something who betrayed her—it was her own body. Despite it being all she’s ever wanted, Kennedy will never know what it feels like to feel her baby’s feet kick from the inside out. Having been pronounced infertile at only eighteen, she redirected her life the best way she could.
Eight years and a degree later, Kennedy is one of the most well-loved first-grade teachers at Rock Falls Elementary School. It doesn’t matter that her college boyfriend left her because he wanted children of his own. She has twenty-two of the most gorgeous six-year-olds who adore her and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Jackson Steele deals only in extremes. He falls victim to manic episodes lasting for days, sometimes weeks at a time, sending him reeling from volatile highs to devastating lows. It’s a living hell just being inside his own mind, and that hell has taken everything he’s ever loved away from him. But what if, this time, it gives him something? An untimely gift from God and a brunette with legs eight miles long will bring him the most unforeseen joy but also his most challenging of tests.
What happens when circumstances of life threaten the one thing both Jackson and Kennedy love? Saving Steele from himself may prove to be too much for Cross to bear.
“He came to my rescue (not that us modern day women don’t know how to rescue ourselves, but from time to time, it’s nice to know you don’t always have to). He didn’t shelter me. He called me on my introverted world (much to my dislike). He pushed me out of my comfort zone, but in a way that made me feel protected and safe while he did it.”
5 Save me stars!!! In love….in love with the story, in love with Jackson, in love with Kennedy…..
I can’t even put into words how much I’ve fallen for this book!! I hated that it ended but I wanted to keep reading to see what was going to happen. Readers worst nightmare really. Jackson and Kennedy are perfect…..absolutely perfect together, their chemistry, their story, their passion. I think every couple should strive to be these two. What an amazing book, I’m so honored to have read this book!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
PLOT: 5
CHEMISTRY: 5
PACING: 5
ENDING: 5
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5
January 30, 2016
First let me say that I very much obsessed with all things Anne Jolin.. her writing captivates me! This series is hands down a TOP favorite of mine and it will forever be one of those series I go back and reread....
Now, on to Saving Steele book 5 in the Rock Falls Series... I love Jackson Steele. This man is one who takes absolute responsibility for his actions. No second thoughts. Saving Steele literally picks up where Keeping King left off... Ryker, Jackson's 6 year old shows up on his door step and from that moment Jackson is a Dad. Jackson takes on his duties immediately and does an amazing job... Jackson and Colton are searching for the woman who is Ryker's mother to seek answers as to why she left him... let's just say Ryker's birth mother is a horrible person.
Now in comes Kennedy Cross, Ryker's teacher... oh my, when Jackson and Kennedy meet I couldn't stop laughing.. they had chemistry from the moment they meet!
I absolutely loved Kennedy watching Ryker for Jackson... Kennedy is hilarious when she goes into Jackson's pantry!
Kennedy and Jackson were everything to each other. I loved these two VERY much. They are so HOT together. Mmmmm..... Jackson and his sexy, dirty mouth... SWOON! I'm with Kennedy & now am living permanently in SWOON CITY!! I try not to give too much away in my reviews because I hate seeing spoilers in reviews BUT the one thing I will say is... I hate RONDA! HATE her...
Anyways, this book blew me away. I was flying through the pages, SWOONING, then taking a moment to bawl my eyes out.. then back to SWOONING.. then the best happy tears ever! The epilogue is probably one of my favorites in this series. The final words are so beautiful and closes out Jackson & Kennedy's perfect story so beautifully...
I absolutely highly recommend this series to everyone. These tattooed-alpha men of Rock Falls are EVERYTHING! All I know is, I'm now Jackson's Bubble Girl and he's my HONEY!
I cannot wait for Colton's book.. Like, I NEED IT yesterday! Also, I am incredibly grateful to Anne that I received an ARC of Saving Steele. Thank you so much beautiful
Now, on to Saving Steele book 5 in the Rock Falls Series... I love Jackson Steele. This man is one who takes absolute responsibility for his actions. No second thoughts. Saving Steele literally picks up where Keeping King left off... Ryker, Jackson's 6 year old shows up on his door step and from that moment Jackson is a Dad. Jackson takes on his duties immediately and does an amazing job... Jackson and Colton are searching for the woman who is Ryker's mother to seek answers as to why she left him... let's just say Ryker's birth mother is a horrible person.
Now in comes Kennedy Cross, Ryker's teacher... oh my, when Jackson and Kennedy meet I couldn't stop laughing.. they had chemistry from the moment they meet!
I absolutely loved Kennedy watching Ryker for Jackson... Kennedy is hilarious when she goes into Jackson's pantry!
Kennedy and Jackson were everything to each other. I loved these two VERY much. They are so HOT together. Mmmmm..... Jackson and his sexy, dirty mouth... SWOON! I'm with Kennedy & now am living permanently in SWOON CITY!! I try not to give too much away in my reviews because I hate seeing spoilers in reviews BUT the one thing I will say is... I hate RONDA! HATE her...
Anyways, this book blew me away. I was flying through the pages, SWOONING, then taking a moment to bawl my eyes out.. then back to SWOONING.. then the best happy tears ever! The epilogue is probably one of my favorites in this series. The final words are so beautiful and closes out Jackson & Kennedy's perfect story so beautifully...
I absolutely highly recommend this series to everyone. These tattooed-alpha men of Rock Falls are EVERYTHING! All I know is, I'm now Jackson's Bubble Girl and he's my HONEY!
I cannot wait for Colton's book.. Like, I NEED IT yesterday! Also, I am incredibly grateful to Anne that I received an ARC of Saving Steele. Thank you so much beautiful
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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