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Where Secrets Are Safe #8
His First Choice
The best decision they'll ever make
Lacey Hamilton is used to living in the background. Overshadowed her entire life, she stepped out of the Hollywood limelight and into the role she's meant to a counselor, part of the High Risk Team started by The Lemonade Stand women's shelter in Santa Raquel.
Her caseload leads her to the doorstep of Jeremiah "Jem" Bridges to rescue a little boy. She's not supposed to fall in love with the rugged construction worker and his adorable son. Love and duty, though, don't always agree. Especially when a truth is uncovered that neither she nor Jem is prepared to face.
Lacey Hamilton is used to living in the background. Overshadowed her entire life, she stepped out of the Hollywood limelight and into the role she's meant to a counselor, part of the High Risk Team started by The Lemonade Stand women's shelter in Santa Raquel.
Her caseload leads her to the doorstep of Jeremiah "Jem" Bridges to rescue a little boy. She's not supposed to fall in love with the rugged construction worker and his adorable son. Love and duty, though, don't always agree. Especially when a truth is uncovered that neither she nor Jem is prepared to face.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2016
3 people are currently reading
441 people want to read
About the author
Tara Taylor Quinn
369 books1,460 followersTara Taylor Quinn began her love affair with Harlequin when she was fourteen years old and picked up a free promotional copy of a Harlequin Romance in a hometown grocery store. The relationship was solidified the year she was suspended from her high school typing class for hiding a Harlequin Romance behind the keys of her electric typewriter. Unaware that her instructor loomed close by, Ms. Quinn read blissfully on with one finger resting on the automatic repeating period key. She finished the book in the principal’s office. Forced to leave her romances in her locker after that, Ms. Quinn’s typing skills improved - a fact for which she is eternally grateful.
With over 80 original novels, published in more than twenty languages, Tara Taylor Quinn is a USA Today bestselling author with more than seven million copies sold. She is a winner of the 2008 National Reader's Choice Award, four time finalist for the RWA Rita Award, a finalist for the Reviewer’s Choice Award, the Bookseller’s Best Award, the Holt Medallion and appears regularly on the Waldenbooks bestsellers list. Ms. Quinn writes for Harlequin and MIRA Books. Reviewer, Cindy Penn, wordweaving.com says, “Amazing character development is the hallmark of author Tara Taylor Quinn’s work. Indeed, Taylor’s profound observations of human nature and intimate understanding of values and priorities lends extraordinary psychological depth to all her work.”
Tara Taylor Quinn was born and raised in Ohio. Though she wrote her first story at the age of seven, her professional writing career began ten years later when she was hired as a stringer with the Dayton Daily News in Dayton, Ohio. She attended Wright State University and graduated from Harding College in Arkansas with a degree in English and Journalism. She published several magazine articles before turning to writing as a full-time occupation.
Ms. Quinn is a Past President of the Romance Writers of America and served for eight years on the Board of Directors of that association. She has a wide range of experience as a public speaker and workshop presenter for writers groups around the country.
When she’s not home with her owners, Jerry Lee and Taylor Marie, or fulfilling speaking engagements, Tara loves to travel with her husband, stopping wherever the spirit takes them. They’ve been spotted in casinos and quaint little small town antique shops all across the country..
With over 80 original novels, published in more than twenty languages, Tara Taylor Quinn is a USA Today bestselling author with more than seven million copies sold. She is a winner of the 2008 National Reader's Choice Award, four time finalist for the RWA Rita Award, a finalist for the Reviewer’s Choice Award, the Bookseller’s Best Award, the Holt Medallion and appears regularly on the Waldenbooks bestsellers list. Ms. Quinn writes for Harlequin and MIRA Books. Reviewer, Cindy Penn, wordweaving.com says, “Amazing character development is the hallmark of author Tara Taylor Quinn’s work. Indeed, Taylor’s profound observations of human nature and intimate understanding of values and priorities lends extraordinary psychological depth to all her work.”
Tara Taylor Quinn was born and raised in Ohio. Though she wrote her first story at the age of seven, her professional writing career began ten years later when she was hired as a stringer with the Dayton Daily News in Dayton, Ohio. She attended Wright State University and graduated from Harding College in Arkansas with a degree in English and Journalism. She published several magazine articles before turning to writing as a full-time occupation.
Ms. Quinn is a Past President of the Romance Writers of America and served for eight years on the Board of Directors of that association. She has a wide range of experience as a public speaker and workshop presenter for writers groups around the country.
When she’s not home with her owners, Jerry Lee and Taylor Marie, or fulfilling speaking engagements, Tara loves to travel with her husband, stopping wherever the spirit takes them. They’ve been spotted in casinos and quaint little small town antique shops all across the country..
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
September 22, 2019
Excellent story with an unusual storyline. The book opens with Lacey, a social worker, getting a call from a concerned daycare worker. A little boy she has cared for since he was a few months old shows worrisome signs - unusual injuries and a change in personality among them. She's afraid that he's being abused. Lacey takes down the information and pays a visit to father and son that very night. I will say that I was somewhat disappointed in Lacey at the very beginning. It seemed to me that she immediately jumped to the conclusion that it was Levi's father doing the abusing before she even met the man. Fortunately, it didn't take her long to realize that if there was any abuse, it wasn't Jem doing it. There are, however, enough signs that she can't completely walk away.
I really liked both Lacey and Jem. Lacey is a strong and compassionate woman who also has some self-image problems. She and her identical twin sister, Kacey, were models when they were younger, and Kacey went on to work as an actress, too. Lacey was the quiet one who frequently got overlooked around her more outgoing sister. It wasn't until Lacey moved away and became involved with a women's shelter, The Lemonade Stand, that she found her niche in life. However, she does tend to compare herself to her sister, always believing that she doesn't measure up. I loved how she connected with little Levi and how he found his way into her heart. Jem is a great guy and a wonderful father. I loved seeing him with Levi and what an excellent relationship they have. Jem has full custody, with his ex-wife, Tressa, getting weekend visitations. I often got frustrated by the way Jem consistently made excuses for Tressa's actions and attitude. The more I got to know him the more I liked him, but I also wanted to find a way to open his eyes.
I loved the development of the relationship between Lacey and Jem. There were sparks between them right from the start, but Lacey tried to resist them. Because of her work connection to Levi and Jem, having a personal relationship was not possible. But as fate kept throwing them together, the attraction between them could not be denied. I loved that Lacey accepted the connection and made the move that would remove that obstacle from their relationship. I loved watching them grow closer, slowly getting to know each other. Jem won my heart with the way that he focused on Lacey even when Kacey was around. I loved how he showed her that she was wonderful the way she was and didn't need to keep comparing herself to Kacey. I especially liked his explanation of how he knew the difference between the two women. Lacey's feelings for Jem grew quickly, but her insecurity worked against her for a long time. I loved seeing her finally start to believe in their relationship. However, she also had a big reservation, and that was the relationship between Jem and Tressa. There were things about it that raised red flags for her, but Jem blew off her concerns. It wasn't until a combination of something that Levi said and a confrontation with Tressa that Lacey's suspicions proved correct. I ached for both her and Jem as she confronted him with her observations and conclusion and made her stand. I loved Jem's big moment at the end and everything he went through to get there.
Another thing I loved about this book was the relationship between Lacey and Kacey. Their love for each other was unquestionable. I also loved how they were there for each other, even during those times when their relationship was strained. It was interesting to see the similarities and the differences and how those affected their relationship. I loved that Lacey saw what she needed to do for her own happiness and did it. I also liked that with time and distance she was able to change the dynamics between herself and her sister. I also liked how her love and concern for Kacey helped her sister get a better handle on her own life and issues. It was a great start to Kacey finding who she is inside. I've already read Kacey's story (Her SecretLife) and found it just as moving as Lacey's.
I really liked both Lacey and Jem. Lacey is a strong and compassionate woman who also has some self-image problems. She and her identical twin sister, Kacey, were models when they were younger, and Kacey went on to work as an actress, too. Lacey was the quiet one who frequently got overlooked around her more outgoing sister. It wasn't until Lacey moved away and became involved with a women's shelter, The Lemonade Stand, that she found her niche in life. However, she does tend to compare herself to her sister, always believing that she doesn't measure up. I loved how she connected with little Levi and how he found his way into her heart. Jem is a great guy and a wonderful father. I loved seeing him with Levi and what an excellent relationship they have. Jem has full custody, with his ex-wife, Tressa, getting weekend visitations. I often got frustrated by the way Jem consistently made excuses for Tressa's actions and attitude. The more I got to know him the more I liked him, but I also wanted to find a way to open his eyes.
I loved the development of the relationship between Lacey and Jem. There were sparks between them right from the start, but Lacey tried to resist them. Because of her work connection to Levi and Jem, having a personal relationship was not possible. But as fate kept throwing them together, the attraction between them could not be denied. I loved that Lacey accepted the connection and made the move that would remove that obstacle from their relationship. I loved watching them grow closer, slowly getting to know each other. Jem won my heart with the way that he focused on Lacey even when Kacey was around. I loved how he showed her that she was wonderful the way she was and didn't need to keep comparing herself to Kacey. I especially liked his explanation of how he knew the difference between the two women. Lacey's feelings for Jem grew quickly, but her insecurity worked against her for a long time. I loved seeing her finally start to believe in their relationship. However, she also had a big reservation, and that was the relationship between Jem and Tressa. There were things about it that raised red flags for her, but Jem blew off her concerns. It wasn't until a combination of something that Levi said and a confrontation with Tressa that Lacey's suspicions proved correct. I ached for both her and Jem as she confronted him with her observations and conclusion and made her stand. I loved Jem's big moment at the end and everything he went through to get there.
Another thing I loved about this book was the relationship between Lacey and Kacey. Their love for each other was unquestionable. I also loved how they were there for each other, even during those times when their relationship was strained. It was interesting to see the similarities and the differences and how those affected their relationship. I loved that Lacey saw what she needed to do for her own happiness and did it. I also liked that with time and distance she was able to change the dynamics between herself and her sister. I also liked how her love and concern for Kacey helped her sister get a better handle on her own life and issues. It was a great start to Kacey finding who she is inside. I've already read Kacey's story (Her SecretLife) and found it just as moving as Lacey's.
May 8, 2016
Ohmygoodness--such a good book!
I was so invested in the lives of Lacey, Jem, and Levi by the end of this one I didn't even want to acknowledge that I had a life outside of the book. And only a teensy part of that was because of the work I still had to finish this weekend for end of semester ;) Most of it was just...This. Book.
I was right there with Lacey as she struggled to figure out who was the real threat to Levi...and gasped out loud (sorry Mini Moe #2! Mom really needs to stop reading when you're driving, honey!) when she and (her twin) Kacey found out from him what had happened to cause the bruising his preschool teacher had seen on his torso. I was right there with Jem, nodding along as he justified his ex-wife's behavior over and over again...until Lacey (with not a little bit of help from the crazy sauce that is Tressa herself) made me see just how toxic and manipulative she really was. And fearing that Jem was never going to really see it? Made my heart break just a little.
But then we get to the ending, which is SO GOOD. Seriously. There were tears over here. Lots of them.
Happy sigh!
I have to admit it took me until I was at about 50% before it finally clicked with me where the title came from--up until then I was scratching my head, musing First choice? But he was married before...what do they mean "first choice"? and then it hit me, and I swear I melted, just a little bit. That Jem. (dramatic sigh...) The cover, though. That is definitely not the silhouette of a four-year-old standing in between the man and the woman. But I can't deny that it's pretty, so I'll just pretend I didn't notice from here on in.
Besides, have I mentioned my love for what's behind that cover? ;)
How is it I've never read Tara Taylor Quinn before? (Quickly adding rest of series to TBR...) Please tell me Kacey's getting her own book someday, because that girl definitely deserves it, and not just because of her stellar babysitting skills... :)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I was so invested in the lives of Lacey, Jem, and Levi by the end of this one I didn't even want to acknowledge that I had a life outside of the book. And only a teensy part of that was because of the work I still had to finish this weekend for end of semester ;) Most of it was just...This. Book.
I was right there with Lacey as she struggled to figure out who was the real threat to Levi...and gasped out loud (sorry Mini Moe #2! Mom really needs to stop reading when you're driving, honey!) when she and (her twin) Kacey found out from him what had happened to cause the bruising his preschool teacher had seen on his torso. I was right there with Jem, nodding along as he justified his ex-wife's behavior over and over again...until Lacey (with not a little bit of help from the crazy sauce that is Tressa herself) made me see just how toxic and manipulative she really was. And fearing that Jem was never going to really see it? Made my heart break just a little.
But then we get to the ending, which is SO GOOD. Seriously. There were tears over here. Lots of them.
Happy sigh!
I have to admit it took me until I was at about 50% before it finally clicked with me where the title came from--up until then I was scratching my head, musing First choice? But he was married before...what do they mean "first choice"? and then it hit me, and I swear I melted, just a little bit. That Jem. (dramatic sigh...) The cover, though. That is definitely not the silhouette of a four-year-old standing in between the man and the woman. But I can't deny that it's pretty, so I'll just pretend I didn't notice from here on in.
Besides, have I mentioned my love for what's behind that cover? ;)
How is it I've never read Tara Taylor Quinn before? (Quickly adding rest of series to TBR...) Please tell me Kacey's getting her own book someday, because that girl definitely deserves it, and not just because of her stellar babysitting skills... :)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2019
A thoroughly enjoyable book that frankly and carefully deals with child abuse and domestic violence. When twin Lacey takes on a social work case, the symptoms of the abuse are masked such that the case is prematurely closed. However, she gets close to Jem and figures out the truth and hands the case off to another worker as she is now personally involved. Once they face the truth, the child is well protected and Jem and Lacey explore the personal possibilities. Well written and enjoyable while pulling my heartstrings to see if the abuser is caught.
May 10, 2016
Latest of the "Where Secrets are Safe" series, I was captured almost immediately by this story, wondering within the first chapter how Lacey Hamilton, social worker, would rescue the little boy she's been told is in danger. First she has to determine who is abusing him, and why. Then she has to figure out how he can be kept safe, particularly when Jem, his handsome contractor father doesn't seem to be the perpetrator of the bruises or Levi's broken arm.
While hints suggest who it might be, the external presentation of this person doesn't quite square with Lacey's expectations--until she overhears and then sees this person with an adult, whom she also concludes is being abused. But how can she get him to see that?
The multiple ways in which abuse occurs is dealt with in this story with subtlety and grace, making it all the more horrific that people can hurt each other this way. A story I couldn't put down, because I had to know how Levi, Lacy and Jem are going to resolve a potentially deadly situation that endangers all three of them in so many ways.
While hints suggest who it might be, the external presentation of this person doesn't quite square with Lacey's expectations--until she overhears and then sees this person with an adult, whom she also concludes is being abused. But how can she get him to see that?
The multiple ways in which abuse occurs is dealt with in this story with subtlety and grace, making it all the more horrific that people can hurt each other this way. A story I couldn't put down, because I had to know how Levi, Lacy and Jem are going to resolve a potentially deadly situation that endangers all three of them in so many ways.
May 5, 2016
A gut wrenching story that hooked me by the first page and had me feeling so many emotions throughout! I smiled at the adorableness of this little boy, I ached for the pain being felt, I felt anger, and most of all, I hoped for a happily ever after for these two special guys that wormed their way into my heart. Highly recommend!
Lacey Hamilton has always felt like she was living in the shadow and on the outside of another life, so she left the life she was living and found her comfort helping other people as a counselor for California Social Services and as part of the High Risk Team for The Lemonade Stand women's shelter in Santa Raquel, CA.
When a case brings her to the house of Jeremiah Bridges and his adorable son, she's drawn to them. She's not supposed to get close, but after a little time has passed and they cross each other's path again, she can't help herself. Jem turns out to be the love she's always hoped for, but will his inability to distance himself from the past be their downfall?
Lacey Hamilton has always felt like she was living in the shadow and on the outside of another life, so she left the life she was living and found her comfort helping other people as a counselor for California Social Services and as part of the High Risk Team for The Lemonade Stand women's shelter in Santa Raquel, CA.
When a case brings her to the house of Jeremiah Bridges and his adorable son, she's drawn to them. She's not supposed to get close, but after a little time has passed and they cross each other's path again, she can't help herself. Jem turns out to be the love she's always hoped for, but will his inability to distance himself from the past be their downfall?
May 5, 2016
This is new,a husband becomes a victim of domestic abuse. It's interesting to see that while women tend to be vulnerable to violence,men could also enable their spouses to commit such behavior. This book shows that when you are a victim, especially if an abusive partner apologizes and feels remorse of those acts thus you excuses his/her behavior, it will not solve the problem. You need to take a stand,if not for yourself then do it for your loved ones,especially if it involves minors.
July 17, 2016
Pretty good for a Harlequin. Delves into child abuse and spouse abuse from a different angle. Picked up at RWA 2016 in San Diego as part of Librarian's Day and couldn't help reading it right away. Lacey is a terrific character--quiet but she sticks up for herself when it counted.
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May 2, 2016Miniseries: Where Secrets are Safe
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews