Heartbreakers and Heroes

Promise, Idaho #1

by Virginia Nelson

***This boxed set is no longer available on eTailers. Most authors in this anthology have released their story as a standalone novella, so please check them out. Thanks!***

Get your hands on TWELVE sexy HEARTBREAKERS AND HEROES, a brotherhood bound by their troubled youth. A tragedy reminds them of the mentor who taught them all the rules to become a man. But some of them haven't been following the rules...


These TWELVE new novellas from USA Today bestsellers and your favorite contemporary authors are sure get your pulse racing and heart pounding.

HIDING WITH THE HEARTBREAKER by USA Today bestseller by Virginia Nelson
Rule: Protect the innocent.
Making people laugh for a living is easy, but when a beautiful stranger needs Aloysius Sutton's help, he has to find a way to become Jude's hero.

HOW TO UNBREAK A HEART by USA Today bestseller Jennie Marts
Rule: If you love her, don't let her go.
Solitary cowboy, Trip Turner finally has a chance to correct the mistakes he made when he let the woman he loved walk out of his life twelve years ago. But now that Bre Wilson is back, will he be able to unbreak her heart?

SECOND CHANCE HERO by Michelle Major
Rule: A real man doesn't build himself up by tearing someone else down.
Travis Jackson might not be the white knight Hailey Moore needs, but he'll risk his future to win her heart.

HOMETOWN HEARTBREAKER by Heather Long
Rule: A real man always puts his best foot forward.
Zeke always planned to steal her heart, but she left him on base. It’s the bottom of the ninth, and Charity is up to bat. Can she tell her two-all stars the truth or will a foul end her best chance?


HERO IN DISGUISE by Sharla Lovelace
Rule: A real man doesn't buy respect, he earns it.
Billionaire playboy Jake Jericho thinks he has it all, until one phone call reminds him otherwise. Can one week in disguise reform this trust fund playboy, or will his deception destroy the only real love he's ever known?

HER HEARTBREAKER BOSS by Carmen Falcone
Rule: Never leave your woman unsatisfied.
Can Stefano and Roxie resist the heat flaring between them or will working together force them to face their rocky past and give them the happily ever after they deserve?

HOW TO BE A HEARTBREAKER by Codi Gary
Rule: A real man never kisses and tells.
When an A list actor returns to his hometown, old wounds and fresh gossip emerge... along with a second chance at love, if he's brave enough to stick around.

REFORMING THE HEARTBREAKER by Christine Glover
Rule: A real man never breaks a woman's heart.
Can Olympic mountain bike champion Ryder Bennett and his public relations rep Addison Carrington keep things professional between them this time around, or will they risk a sexy scandal for a chance at love?

HER UNWANTED HERO by Veronica Forand
Rule: A real man always helps someone in need... he may be the only one who does.
A disenchanted police officer must choose between keeping a woman's affection or keeping her alive.

ONCE A HEARTBREAKER by T.J. Kline
Rule: A real man never lies, especially to a woman.
Ty Preston ran out on the woman he loved twelve years ago, but now he's back to prove he's a changed man. However, Rayne can't risk getting her heart broken by the cowboy again.

MAKE MINE A HEARTBREAKER by Jodi Linton
Rule: A real man never falls for his friend's sister... ever.
She's about to change this playboy's rule book.

TUTORING THE HEARTBREAKER TO LOVE by Hayson Manning
Rule: A real man never touches the hired help.
Can Savannah teach serial heartbreaker Walker to be domesticated in ten days and convince them that maybe they can have s shot at a 'them' or can Walker convince Savannah there can be a 'them' on his terms only?

Genres: Anthologies, Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

1105 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 21, 2016

About the author

Virginia Nelson believed them when they said, “Write what you know.” Small town girl writing small town romance, her characters are as full of flaws, misunderstandings, and flat out mistakes as Virginia herself. When she’s not writing or plotting to take over the world, she likes to hang out with the greatest kids in history, play in the mud, drive far too fast, and scream at inanimate objects. Virginia likes knights in rusted and dinged up armor, heroes that snarl instead of croon, and heroines who can’t remember to say the right thing even with an author writing their dialogue. Her books are full of snark, sex, and random acts of ineptitude—not always in that order.

Reviews

[Catherine Crook · Rating 5 out of 5]

What brought me to this book? Codi, TJ and Jodi. What kept me was the rest of the authors who were new to me. Each and every one of these stories were beautifully penned in a way that kept you hoping for more.

I don't usually do collections, anthologies or whatnot - but this one was a HANDS DOWN 5 STAR WINNER in this ladies book. :)

[Red Cheeks Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Heartbreakers and Heroes box set is full of swoony romance stories that made me smile, giggle and get a little heated. Each one was great on it's own and as a whole the anthology delivered an entertaining collection of heartbreaking men and heroes and the women who love them.

I really enjoyed all of these love stories but Once a Heartbreaker by T.J. Kline and Reforming the Heartbreaker by Christine Glover but my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE was How To Be A Heartbreaker by Codi Gary. I have always loved Codi's book for her ability to mix a good angsty story with a sweet small town romance and the second chance love of when action hero comes home and moves in next door to the girl whose heart he doesn't even know he broke delivers just that.

If you are looking to dive into a whole bunch of alpha hero stories or if you want to read one here or there to break up reading full length books than this anthology is just perfect for you. There was not one story I didn't enjoy so you really cannot go wrong.

4.5 Smooches
~miranda

[Jane Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an up lifting book! Full of, hope, love, and second and third "second chances." Each story by a different author, connected, with one focal point. Very well done. Each story different, yet similar. I throughly enjoyed reading this book, and the rules of life it follows.

[Christina Rzeczkowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the blessing to read this box set! I didn't want to put it down! Very well written and you just fall in love with the characters! Id recommend this box set to everyone who loves good love stories that make you want to devour them in one sitting!

[Dina Bushrod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story #3 - "Her Heartbreaker Boss" is by Carmen Falcone, and is the first one I read in this anthology, and if it's an indication of the rest of the stories, then we have a definite winner. The 12 novellas are all connected by a home for boys that all the male characters were in at one point and how it affected their lives; how the man who ran it turned them into men by working the hard and teaching them 12 Rules. This particular story concerns Rule #3: Never leave your woman unsatisfied. It brings the two main characters back together years after a life changing event during their late teen years. Stefano has made it big in the financial world and is buying a company that unbeknownst to him, the teenage girl from his past, Roxie, is working at. Meeting each other again brings back memories they'd rather forget. Top that off with the anger she feels for the changes and layoffs he's planning to make, and it spells trouble. I don't do spoilers so this is it, just let me say here that for a novella the author manages to provide a very strong story that takes us from their past right to the present and how unknown factors and misunderstandings can change a persons life. Will this lead to happiness or more sorrow for these two individuals; to find out you'll have just have to get the anthology and read "Her Heartbreaker Boss." I strongly recommend this book to lovers of Contemporary Romance, especially those that include not only romance, but anger, humor, and of course sexy encounters. You won't be sorry you did.
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Story #1 is by author Virginia Nelson and is titled "Hiding with the Heartbreaker" and it concerns Rule #1: Protect the innocent. We have to people who are trying very hard to different from what their parents are, or what they expect them to be. We have Jude, the daughter of a famous painter, who never had the emotional love or attention because her was too involved with her painting. Aloysius (Al) was born into money since he was young wanted nothing to do with and rebelled against it and was sent to a "boys" ranch where he met a man he considered more his father than his own. Jude sees what appears to be a murder and runs away before she can be arrested. Al is told of her innocence and is asked to keep her safe and protect her. You'll enjoy this novella of their time together and what they discover about themselves. Can they really let go of their upbringing and open up to each other and move forward or will it cause them to turn away again.
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Story #2 "How to Unbreak a Heart" was written by Jennie Marts and concerns Rule #2:If you love her, don't let her go. As teenagers Trip and Bre swore their love to each other and had their life together planned out. Then one night, without explanation, Trip leaves. Twelve years have past and circumstances have unwittingly brought them back together. Unbeknownst to either of them, they still love one another. but her hurt and his secrets are keeping them from admitting it. You'll love this story of the cowboy and the veterinarian, read how secrets let out can heal and how hearts can be healed.
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Story#4 "Her Unwanted Hero" by Veronica Forand and concerns Rule #4: A real man always helps someone in need, he may be the only one who does" This is the story of Police Sergeant Griffin and waitress/student/caretaker Trinity. They've been friends for over 12 years, seeing each other on a regular basis at the restaurant she works at. But that's all they've ever been and Griffin has always wanted more. She has a family situation which he feels could go dangerously wrong. One day after an incident at her home he discovers this as he's the officer who responds to the call. From there they become closer as he does his best to help her, something she doesn't want. They finally get together but his insistence on her needing help causes her to distance herself from him. She doesn't know that he has a secret that will always haunt him and that makes him act the way he does. You'll love reading this story of a man, who no matter what, even if it means losing someone he loves, will do his hardest to help. You'll love the strength of these character and their story and maybe even realize that someone you know may need your help as well.
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Story #5, "How to be a Heartbreaker" is by author Codi Gary and it concerns Rule #5 Never Kiss and Tell. Here we have a huge misunderstanding that devastates a young woman, Ashlynn, to the point that she becomes harder, untrusting. The young man involved, Sebastian, is clueless to the heartache as after a confrontation with his father left town that same night not to return for 12 years. They both had dreams of what they wanted to accomplish in their lives and have returned to their town of Promise, Idaho; one to work and when to attend a wedding. Read how they get through their discoveries of what really happened. Can Asylynn believe him, can she open up enough to trust again, can "Bash" convince her of the truth? We have a delightful story told with tears, frustrations and yes even laughter and the process of learning what one really wants and what they're willing, if anything, to compromise on. Yay, you're reading it and I hear you laughing out loud when you meet Bernie.
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Story #6, written by Christine Glover is "Reforming the Heartbreaker" and concerns Rule #6 A real man never breaks a woman's heart. The heroine in this story is Addison, who as a young girl had her heart broken by Ryder. They were close friends, he was always there for her, till that one fateful day. She overheard him agree with his friends, which was putting her down because of her weight. His words that day changed her; it made her unsure of herself, to the point of remaking herself both mentally and physically. After a horrific accident, they are brought back together, her as head of a publicity firm, him as one of their top money making clients. She has to make sure to show him as a caring person to the public, he has to just do what she says. Ha, you try telling a man what to do 24/7. He never stopped loving her and he has to figure out how to convince he that he never meant what he said those many years ago and that he is a caring and trustworthy person. Meanwhile, she has to break a promise, the only thing he asked her not to do. Now he no longer trust her. Will they ever trust each other again? You'll love the interactions between these two people who still love each other, one full of distrust, the other trying everything to show her that she can.
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Story #7 "Once a Heartbreaker" by T.J. Kline and concerns Rule #7 A Real Man Never Lies, Especially to a Woman." We have Rayne, who worked hard to reach her goal of being a Veterinarian, and Ty, a Rodeo circuit champion for 13 years who saved enough money to buy his own ranch near The Saddle Creek Boys' Ranch. The place he thought of home more than his real home because the owner, John, was more a father figure to him than his own father. He became a man there by working hard and following John's rules, but he broke one of those rules over 13 years ago when he broke Rayne's heart by lying to her. On his first day at his new home one of his horses is hurt and he calls the local vet for help. Yep you guessed it, Rayne is the vet that shows up. Read how Ty's lie affected Rayne's life and his attempts to regain her love. His lies and leaving town the same day caused her so much pain that she now finds it hard to believe and trust anyone, much less the one who caused it.

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Story #8 is "Make Mine a Heartbreaker" by Jodi Linton and concerns Ru!e #8 Love should always be fun. This story is exactly that, FUN. Author Linton's stories are always filled with wonderful characters, laugh out loud humor, crazy predicaments, and hot, fight it all the way love. Imagine getting caught in what appears to be a comprising situation, now put that in scene inside a Sex Shop and police with guns pointing at you. Bad news for the guy as he's trying to clean up his image in order to close a lucrative deal; and the girl doesn't need any further embarrassment after a terrible breakup. So what happens next? Well all I'm saying is she has to attend the wedding of aforementioned ex, and she ends up going with her new fiancée, yep Mr in the Sex Shop guy. Read how this happens and how through bad publicity, lie's to family and friends, and misunderstandings, leads to love. Love filled with fun.
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Story #9, "Hometown Heartbreaker" is written by Heather Long, and concerns Rule #9 A real man always puts his best foot forward. Let me say here that I've never been into baseball, but you don't have to be to enjoy this story. I absolutely loved it, the characters, Zeke and Charity are good people but one of them made a really big mistake, which caused them 8 years of unhappiness. We have another main character in this story, Andie, the one who started the problem in the first place. Zeke, the famous baseball player, is back in town, for the first time during those 8 years, to coach the towns little league for a couple of weeks. Charity never left and always feared this day would come; she knows she has to tell him why she hurt him those many years ago. Will he forgive her, will the baseball loving Andie forgive them both? This story shows us the regrets caused by loving someone so much that you push them away and what happens when everyone involved puts their best foot forward. As you can tell I don't do spoilers, but l have to tell you if I did this review would be too long because I wouldn't want to leave anything out. Reading it gave me, well the word I come up with is happiness. This is my first time reading a Heather Long story, but it most certainly will not be the last.

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three down, and they are all awesome!

REFORMING THE HEARTBREAKER by Christine Glover

After trying to avoid him for eight years, Ryder Bennett is back in Addison Carrington’s life. Ryder, an Olympic hopeful, was involved in a tragic car accident that could have all sorts of negative repercussions on his career. Taking over from her ailing father, Addison is now managing Ryder’s account. They had been best friends in college, Addison tutored Ryder; she was a total geek and not that stylish. Addison has worked hard at making herself over, and she is now stunning. She had had a terrible crush on Ryder in college, she had managed to just about forget about him, until he’s back in her life and needs her help. Their falling out was because Ryder humiliated Addison publicly in college; he regretted it immediately, but there was nothing he could do, the damage was done. Addison is determined to keep things professional, but when she sees another side to Ryder, she starts to reconsider her options.


I was captivated right from the beginning, because the characters are extremely well defined and interesting. Ryder is a mountain bike rider who came from nowhere and made good, and Addison is serious about saving Ryder’s career when he hits a serious snag. And how wonderful it was to see a female character deal realistically with weight issues. REFORMING THE HEARTBREAKER’s story is very solid, and a lot happens even though it is a novella. I really felt the connection between Addison and Ryder, even though they had issues to settle. He had some serious making up to do. Addison is a very strong woman, she has worked hard to get where she is, so did Ryder, and their reunion was not easy. REFORMING THE HEARTBREAKER is absolutely terrific, the writing is superb; once again Christine Glover has given us a fabulous book to enjoy! Excellent!

HER HEARTBREAKER BOSS by Carmen Falcone

Roxie Sullivan doesn’t like change. But change is coming to Floridian Tours, where Roxie works as a tour guide. She likes her job and it pays the bills for her and her three year-old son Adam, she cannot afford to lose her job, but the new owner could change all that. What proves even worse is that the new owner is Stefano Mercado, who was a childhood friend of Roxie’s. And one-time lover!

HER HEARTBREAKER BOSS shows a softer, more subdued and more emotional side of Carmen Falcone, and it is fabulous! The great dialogues are still present, the heroine is a strong no-nonsense heroine, Stefano is a terrific hero as well. The writing is seamless, the pace quick, and I really loved how both the romance and the story progressed. There were issues, but they were dealt with speedily and intelligently by the characters. HER HEARTBREAKER BOSS in another great excellent, sensual and fun read by Carmen Falcone! It was so good, I knew it was going to be a novella, but I would have liked to read much more about those two fabulous characters!

HOW TO BE A HEARTBREAKER by Codi Gary

Sebastian Valentine – Bash – is back after 12 years in his home town of Promise Idaho for his friend Troy Jenkins’ wedding. Bash is now a famous actor never expected such a rude greeting from the gorgeous woman who would be his neighbour for the next month, while he’s in town. Ashlynn Marks, now a doctor. Ashlynn has never forgiven Sebastian for what happened after they shared a very special moment 12 years before; Bash ran out on her, she was publicly humiliated, and it almost ruined her life. And now, he now he doesn’t even recognises her! The nerve of the guy! If only she didn’t still have a crush on Bash, it would easier to stay angry at him!

HOW TO BE A HEARTBREAKER sees Codi Gary in fine form. Although the premise for the start of the story is a rather nasty piece of business from the past, it was not the entire focus for the plot, and it was deftly handled, and with quite a few humorous touches, some courtesy of Ashlynn’s dog, Bernie.

Codi Gary writes both bad boys and nice guys with equal ease, and I really liked Bash; he was sweet but definitely not perfect. I also thought that some of the better moments of HOW TO BE A HEARTBREAKER occur between Bash and his estranged father. Those episodes were moving, and very realistic; they explained a lot of Bash’s way of thinking and were as well a golden opportunity for some wonderful character development.

HOW TO BE A HEARTBREAKER flows seamlessly, and as usual Ms. Gary’s prose is impeccable, and the dialogues spot-on. I was really pleased with how the romance progressed and how issues were dealt with. HOW TO BE A HEARTBREAKER is why I love Codi Gary: small town romance, with a dash of humour and a touch of sexy!


I received complimentary copies of these books in exchange for honest reviews.

[Bette Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very lucky to get the opportunity to read two of the stories included in this collection early and let me just say if the other 1o are this good (and considering the authors involved they should be) this is one amazing collection!!

Once a Heartbreaker by TJ Kline - 5 stars - This is a wonderful second chance story and these characters will grip your heart right from the start. Rayne and Ty were teenage sweethearts. Rayne was certain they would spend the rest of their lives together. That is until the day Ty told her he was leaving and didn't love her anymore. Now Ty is back in Saddle Creek and plans to get Rayne back no matter what it takes.

How to be a Heart Breaker by Codi Gary - 5 stars - A super fun story where past hurts are put to rest and futures planned! Bash is returning to Promise, Idaho after 12 years. After leaving at 18 for the bright lights of Hollywood, now he's bought a vacation home and plans to spend all his down time here. The last person who wants to see him though appears to be Ashlynn Marks. After surviving the humiliation of a teenage prank involving Bash, the last thing she wants is to end up living next door to him. Fate seems to have plans for them that can't be denied!

This collection needs to be on everyone's must read list. Preorder your copy now!

http://smile.amazon.com/Heartbreakers...

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is for SECOND CHANCE HERO by Michelle Major

I received an advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review and look forward to reading the others in the collection.

I love Michelle's stories and this novella is no exception. Travis Jackson is the all-business, following-in-his-father's-footsteps CEO of a major sporting goods company. Hailey Moore is a down-on-her-luck woman trying to get her feet under her in Minneapolis - a far cry from her Montana roots. When Hailey overhears Travis breaking up with a screeching woman at a coffee shop, she offers Travis a hug, sending him a curve ball that he didn't expect. This is a fast-paced, delightful read full of heart-tugs, sexual tension and chuckles. The characters have the emotional depth Ms. Major's stories always possess as well as her trademark humor. I highly recommend!

I also adored Jennie Mart's HOW TO UNBREAK A HEART. This is a sexy, humorous romance that gives Trip and Bre a second chance to fix old hurts.

The other stories are a true delight as well. I highly recommend!

[Carly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is for Virginia Nelson's Heartbreakers and Heroes.
Long story short, I loved it. I read this book in about an hour, only about 70 pages, but there is a depth inside it that could have lasted 70 years. A trend I have noticed with Ms. Nelson is that she likes to create characters with obvious flaws. I believe she does this to make them relatable. And that's what her characters are - paranormal or otherwise. In this case, these are two characters who find common ground in the loneliness of the shadows cast by parents. They show you that love is truly unexpected and yet worth every painful but gorgeous second you have it. On top of that, they prove that once you find it, you never let it go.
Bravo, Virginia Nelson. You never disappoint me! Please, fill the world with your words forever.

[Vero Stro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a review for Once a Heartbreaker by T.J. Kline in the Heartbreakers and Heroes Box Set. Once I read the rest i will post my comments.
There are some stories that just grab your attention from the very first page and this is what happened to me with Once a Heartbreaker. I simply adored this second chance romance. I read it in one sitting. That good it was! This is a sweet and lovely story. Ty and Rayne are wonderful characters and I felt the story was too short. I want to read the rest of the stories so I can know what happened to John! I cannot wait to read about the rest of the boys who used to be at the ranch! Great read!

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

[Christi Snow · Rating 4 out of 5]

My overall rating:
A-

Note: I have a jam-packed review schedule, and had hoped to read all the novellas within this boxed set before posting the review. Unfortunately, time and life got in the way, so I was only able to read half of them. But those six novellas were all amazing quality with entertaining stories, so I have no doubt the rest of the books I didn't get to are also the same.

I reviewed each of the novellas that I did read as a separate entity below.

Hiding with the Heartbreaker
by Virginia Nelson
My Rating: B
My Review:
For a novella, this story was surprisingly complete. There was a lot of action and I felt like I got to connect with the characters really well. The story takes place on the road trip so the two characters get to know each other really well, really quickly. I liked how annoyed Al was with Jude at the beginning and how those feelings evolved. It was an easy read.

My only real issue with the story was the premise of why they were on the road in the first place. I thought Jude's reason for running was incredibly stupid and flimsy. Why would someone take off like that? It was such a small part of the overall story that I think the details could have been rewritten to make it more believable...like the killers thought she saw their faces and now are after her. But that's my take on it.

How to Unbreak a Heart
by Jennie Marts
My Rating: A
My Review:
I adore second chance at love stories and this was a good one. Trip left one night when he and Bre were 18. He left without a word or a goodbye. It broke both his heart and Bre's, but he didn't have a choice in the matter. He hasn't seen her since that night until the start of this novella.

Now she's a vet and it just so happens that both of them are staying temporarily at John's ranch. Yeah, you know that sparks are going to fly. Holy hot shower. I honestly think that was the hottest shower scene I think I've ever read. So, yeah, I liked this one. The vet side of the story provided the perfect backdrop for these two to reconnect and shows just how much they're still in synch, although they haven't seen one another in over a decade.

I liked it.

Her Heartbreaker Boss
by Carmen Falcone
My Rating: B+
My Review:
This is another second chance at love story, but like I said before, I really like these. To make it even better when Roxie and Stefano hooked up as teens it was a friends to lovers scenario. They were best friends and each other's firsts...but then life fell apart in the aftermath and they never saw one another again. So it was a complete shock to find out that Stefano was the man behind the takeover of the tour company where Roxie worked.

This was an interesting story that really could have benefited from being a longer piece. Roxie is a single mom and it sounded like there was quite a story with her dead ex that the length of the novella didn't allow to fully evolve. The story takes place in Miami and Montana...two very different places and that transition felt a bit jolting just because they are so different. But overall, it was a good read. I really liked Carmen Falcone's writing style. This is the first I've read from her. It flowed really smoothly and I really enjoyed all the characters. She blends tiny details into the story effortlessly that overall made this feel like a more complex piece than it really was. The tour company setting was interesting, especially as Stefano and Roxie hashed out their differences in how it should evolve. I liked it.

Her Unwanted Hero
by Veronica Forand
My Rating: A-My Review:
This story didn't feel like a normal romance, and I think that's because of Trinity's situation. Normally, romantic stories that deal with abuse have that aspect of the story line happen in the past or have the heroine actively trying to get out of the situation. That isn't the case in this book. Trinity's father is abusive, but her situation is extremely complex and she can't just leave or have him arrested. Her father is the stability in her mother's life...a mother suffering from Alzheimers and they don't have the money to put her in a home. Trinity has to stay and take it for the sake of her mother's emotional health. She can handle it...at least that's what she thinks.

Griffin knows what it's like to grow up in a home of abuse and can't believe he's never seen the signs in all the years he's known and been drawn to Trinity. The hard thing...he wants her out, but she refuses to go. Forcing the issue could mean losing her, but leaving her there could mean her death. It's a no-win situation.

I felt for both characters. I find it hard to get into short stories, but this one sucked me in immediately. There is a lot of action and a strong sense of suspense and danger, because Trinity is balanced on an edge that you can see is going to falter soon. It made for a really great read and I really liked it. I need to read more from this author.

How To Be a Heartbreaker
by Codi Gary
My Rating: A
My Review:
I really liked this story. They had a single night together in high school, and then the next day, Bash walked away and never looked back until he became a movie star. For Ashlynn, that night was devastating. Someone took photos of the two of them together and posted them for everyone to see. She always blamed and hated Bash for it...and for taking her virginity and then walking away. In her eyes, Bash is one of the biggest jerks around.

But now he's back in town for their mutual friend's wedding. He doesn't understand her hostility, but he thinks she's even sexier than she was in high school...when he really was innocent of all the things she blames him for.

This is a second chance at love story. For a novella, there was a LOT of action and story to it. I enjoyed every minute of reading it. It wasn't until I was writing the review that I realized the mystery of who took the photos was never solved. Regardless, I loved this little story. It was extremely satisfying and entertaining and I loved the final scene.

Hero in Disguise
by Sharla Lovelace
My Rating: A+
My Review:
Aww, I loved this story so much. This is another second chance at love story (it was like this boxed set was made for my love of this trope). Jake grew up in a privileged lifestyle. The only exception to that is the year he spent in MT at a ranch (that's the tie for all the stories in this anthology...all the boys spent time at this ranch learning important life lessons.) When he got back to NYC, he tried to keep hold of those lessons and spent time volunteering in a soup kitchen in Brooklyn. That's where he met Harper. She terrified him, so he ran.

Now this book takes place 12 years later and Jake can't face heading to Montana where his mentor is possibly dying so he heads to Brooklyn instead...and finds Harper again.

This is a great story about holding onto what's important and how easy it is to let life get too easy. Jake has a good life, but it's not a fulfilled life. Harper is the same way. They are missing each other...they just don't realize it. In the background is the story of Jake and his dad...which I adored. The final showdown between them was epic and not at all like I expected it to turn out. I also liked the images of the history of this area (even if it was all from the author's fantasy). It was just a great, great story and I teared up at the end which is always a good sign!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sit back and enjoy these 12 loosely connected fun and sexy stories of men who have a code of honor and live by a list of rules learned at the foot of a man who took them in, listened to them, gave them an opportunity to become the men they are now.

HIDING WITH THE HEARTBREAKER by USA Today bestseller by Virginia Nelson
Rule: Protect the innocent.
Al has to choose whether it is more important to protect the girl or his heart.

HOW TO UNBREAK A HEART by USA Today bestseller Jennie Marts
Rule: If you love her, don't let her go.
This story about broke my heart. Break out the tissues.

SECOND CHANCE HERO by Michelle Major
Rule: A real man doesn't build himself up by tearing someone else down.
A fun story of the common sense girl taking on the boss, who hardly remembers the rules. But for Hailey he may have to blow the dust off and remember who he could be.

HOMETOWN HEARTBREAKER by Heather Long
Rule: A real man always puts his best foot forward.
A true second chance romance. He never stopped loving her even when she sent him away. She has a reminder of the love they once shared in the person of the daughter he didn’t know was his. She sent him off to chase his dreams but now he is back and isn’t taking no for an answer. Sweet, sexy fun.

HERO IN DISGUISE by Sharla Lovelace
Rule: A real man doesn't buy respect, he earns it.
Rich boy Jake Jericho has grown into a billionaire playboy who has sloughed off his responsibilities but for Harper he may have to become the man he was always meant to be.

HER HEARTBREAKER BOSS by Carmen Falcone
Rule: Never leave your woman unsatisfied.
Stefano has a long way to go to prove to Roxie that he can be the man for her. But it was a blast watching him sneak into her heart.

HOW TO BE A HEARTBREAKER by Codi Gary
Rule: A real man never kisses and tells.
Bash left town as if his ass was on fire never thinking about the girl he’d deflowered. He is successful now and back in town and has the fight of his life on his hands if he wants to get up close and personal with Ashlynn Marks again. Fun second chance romance. I love Bernie the dog.

REFORMING THE HEARTBREAKER by Christine Glover
Rule: A real man never breaks a woman's heart.
Ryder puts all his energy into being an Olympic class cyclist. He is going to need to remember every rule when dealing with PR specialist Addison Carrington. Fun interplay between the characters.

HER UNWANTED HERO by Veronica Forand
Rule: A real man always helps someone in need... he may be the only one who does.
Police Sergeant Griffin Alexander has issues stemming from growing up in an abusive home so when the woman he has worshiped from afar has similar issues he has to keep his wits about him before someone gets hurt. This story almost ripped out my heart. More tissues.

ONCE A HEARTBREAKER by T.J. Kline
Rule: A real man never lies, especially to a woman.
Ty left 12 years ago but now he is back and he wants Rayne back but he taught her she can’t trust a man. It is going to take some serious groveling. Fun to watch.

MAKE MINE A HEARTBREAKER by Jodi Linton
Rule: A real man never falls for his friend's sister... ever.
Laugh out loud funny.

TUTORING THE HEARTBREAKER TO LOVE by Hayson Manning
Rule: A real man never touches the hired help.
Walker may have shaken the dirt from his boots and become a successful businessman but he is still allowing his past to rule his future. He doesn’t believe in love or relationships until he almost lets the best thing he has every had slip away.

These stories will make you laugh and cry and think. I heartily recommend.

[Jaclyn Roche · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review is for:
1. Hiding with the Heartbreaker by Virginia Nelson
2. Hometown Heartbreaker by Heather Long (COMING SOON)

Hiding with the Heartbreaker by Virginia Nelson

Ms. Nelson never disappoints me as a reader. She creates worlds, heroes, and heroines who are your every day authentic people who get into and out of some relatable and sexy situations. Jude and Al are no exceptions in this fast paced short story (70 pages). Jude our heroine is so relatable in her no so common sense decisions and quick (wrong) reactions. Al our hero is not what he seems and has so many layers as many famous people do - showing one face to the world and another personality that's the real truth. Ms. Nelson creates dynamic characters and a relatable, haters to lovers plot that fits these two flawed protagonists. If you have an hour - this is a must read for you.

Hometown Heartbreaker by Heather Long

I love Ms. Long and her characters. They are always so complex and a treat to read. Zeke and Charity have given me a serious case of book hangover and I wish they had their own full-length story. Heather really packs a punch in a short amount of words and I am super impressed that the story was so developed even with a lot going on.

Charity's life didn't turn out as planned and she has made some hard choices that affected everyone. Zeke has lived quite the life but is now returning home to coach the local kids baseball team. He hasn't been home in years and returns to find out that the spark is and has always been there with Charity. Can they get over the past and move forward?

Kudos Ms. Long I laughed out loud and cried. I was so moved by this story I will not forget these two in a long time.

[Jennifer Schultheis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartbreakers and Heroes contains twelve enjoyable romances in one boxset. Each story is a short novella by a different author. I’ve read all twelve and definitely agree that this boxset is one of the better ones I’ve seen published. With novellas, the story needs to pack quite a romantic punch in a short period of time and these twelve authors really nailed it. There are a few stories in this set that I wish were longer, not because it wasn’t complete or wrapped up, but because the story was so good, that I wanted more.

My absolute favorite story from this set is Her Heartbreaker Boss by Carmen Falcone. The writing is flawless, the characters are sexy and full of life, and the chemistry is off the charts. This is one of those books I wish was longer because I could happily read about Stefano and Roxie for two hundred or more pages and not get bored. If you’re not a fan of second chances, this story will make you a believer.

The other stories in this set are worth the read, as well. I was just highlighting my favorite, but they all are enjoyable and entertaining. Each story has something special that makes this set standout from others. I highly recommend this boxset to all romance readers.

[CarolKat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would like to thank Virginia Nelson for the gift of her novella in this collection "Hiding With The Heartbreaker"

The characters in this novella make some interesting mistakes right from the start.

Jude witnesses something at the gallery where she is hosting a showing. She just isn't sure what she saw which makes her look guilty. She makes her mistake by running from something that's not her fault. On top of that she involves her pregnant sister and brother-in-law who arrange for someone to help her hide for a while.

Al had just finished another funny video for his internet following. He has taken some time off, much to the dismay of his business partner, to visit his mentor who is in a coma. That's when he remembered the "Rule" and got the call to help Jude.

Jude and AL are like oil and water. Jude is so uptight, scared and paranoid, she can't stand anything Al does to try to ease her fears. The more he tries the more prickly she becomes.

Al and Jude have to face their demons both together and apart. With family and others complicating things along the way, this is a delightful comedy of errors. All leading up to hot sex, heartbreak and romance to remember.

I can't wait to read the other "Rules" in the Collection.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a review for Hayson Manning's story Tutoring The Heartbreaker To Love and I have to say it is a fabulous story and I am looking forward to the other stories in this boxed set.

This is a story of second chance love it is so very sensual and moving as Walker arrives back in town Saddle Creek Montana and meets up with Savannah who is still as feisty as ever but she has been married is now divorced runs a diner that is not doing too well and she has decided to sell and move to Hawaii and just because he can her ex is being a pain and Walker cannot help himself where she is concerned.

So Walker comes up with a plan determined to help Savannah without being obvious where by she thinks she is helping him but it must be a hands off not touching the hired help but that doesn't go too well when they are so drawn to each other you could light up Montana with the electricity that shoots between them.

This is one hell of a good story it has everything, it is sexy, fun, emotional and a must read. MS Manning writes stories that will pull you in from the first page and keep you turning those pages she will have you smiling, laughing ,sighing and shedding a few tears of joy with her fabulous stories if you haven't read one of her stories I can highly recommend them.

[Kristina Birch]

Heroes and Heartbreakers is a twelve story compilation from twelve of today’s best contemporary authors. The stories are loosely linked by the rules given to the heroes by the man who helped them all become the kind of me they want to be but can easily be read in any order. Each one is a standalone story that is easily read in a single sitting and packed with humor, chemistry, emotion, and love. This anthology is the perfect summer read, don’t miss it!

[Christine (Shh Moms Reading)]

#Exclusive and $25 Amazon GC #Giveaway
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Love doesn't always play by the rules…

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[Angel Kish · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a review for Virginia Nelson's book in the series. All bell breaks loose and the poor girl needs help. Luckily a hot guy is a hero. A hero in many ways. Loved this story. Love all the stories.... each one as good as the one before it.

[Milagros Jorge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love anthologies!!! And this one in particular is amazing.....love the variety of characters and how well the common theme is done. I especially enjoyed the stories written by HEather Long and Viriginia Nelson. Bit I also was introduced to a fantastic group of writers!!!

[Patricia Mateer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually dont read box sets but this one was amazing! Every story was just as great as the next. You can read these out of order but I chose to read them in order. Great theme that ties them all together and a great way to try out a few new authors!

[Paula Genereau · Rating 5 out of 5]

These books are amazing. I loved them. Everyone has heartache but some more than others.

Hurricane readers book review gave me the book for my honest review

[Miranda Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Smooches Review coming at Red Cheeks Reads

[Brittany Shivers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great collection of stories from an excellent group of authors.

12 Heartbreakers remember the mentor that taught them to be Heros and the women that brought that lesson home.

Hiding with the Heartbreaker - Virginia Nelson

Rule #1 - Protect the innocent

Aloysius James McCallister Sutton is an internet sensation. He makes videos to make the world laugh when he himself needs a reason to laugh.

Jude Cramer is the daughter of a famous artist but has no artistic talent herself.

After witnessing an art theft and murder Jude fears she'll be thought as the suspect.

Al's mentor taught him to always protect the innocent so when asked to help a stranger he didn't hesitate.

Their time together though short brought them close together but can the colors of the desert rejoin their hearts.

How to Unbreak a Heart - Jennie Marts

Rule #2: If you love her, don't let her go.

Trip Turner reunites with the one that he never stopped loving.

Bre Wilson was shocked to see the man that broke her heart.

The past was between them but the truth could bring them together.

Her Heartbreaker Boss - Carmen Falcone

Rule #3: Never leave your woman unsatisfied.

Billionaire Stefano Mercado left behind the love of his life when he was young.

Single mom Roxie Sullivan hasn't seen the man who stole her heart since they were kids.

When work reunites them will they have a second chance at love.

Her Unwanted Hero - Veronica Forand

Rule #4: A real man always helps someone in need....he may be the only one who does.

Police Officer Griffin Alexander knows abuse when he sees it after losing his mom due to his father's abuse.

Trinity Estrada tries to hide her father's abuse from others.

One night will change everything.

How to Be a Heartbreaker - Codi Gary

Rule #5: Never Kiss and Tell

Sebastian Valentine left home to be a movie action star. When he returned for a visit he was surprised by his new neighbors attitude.

Ashlynn Marks hurt by someones actions when she was younger. When the one that broke her heart returns so does the memories.

Can past hurts be healed to make for a future?

Reforming the Heartbreaker - Christine Glover

Rule #6: A real man never breaks a woman's heart.

Bike champion Ryder Bennett is brought into the spotlight after an accident results in a death.

PR Addison Carrington has to push down old hurts in order to help the man responsible for said hurt out of his ordeal.

Healing and truth make for future.

Once a Heartbreaker - T.J. Kline

Rule #7: A real man never lies, especially to a woman.

Ty Prescott left the woman he loved when they were younger thinking it was for her best interest. He returns years later in hopes of their love still strong.

Veterinarian Rayne McCoy didn't want to open her heart to the man that broke it. Will she take the chance on moving forward with love.

Make Mine a Heartbreaker - Jodi Linton

Rule #8: Love should always be fun...

Hannah Lawson bumped into her crush from childhood in the most unlikely of places.

Nate Fox is trying to nail an important contract but an unlikely meeting splashed in the papers jeopardizes things.

A fake engagement reopens old feelings.

Hometown Heartbreaker - Heather Long

Rule #9: A real man always puts his best foot forward.

Zeke Thompson known as the Friar of baseball left home and had no plans on looking back after having his her broken by the woman he loved.

Charity Lane never stopped regretting lying to the man she loved so he could live out his dream.

When he returns she rights the wrong she told them hoping they can become the family denied them so long.

Hero in Disguise - Sharla Lovelace

Rule #10: A real man doesn't buy respect. He earns it.

Billionaire heir Jake Jericho and Harper Haley met when they were young. When Jake left Harper never expected to see him again.

Years later Harper is surprised to see Jake which brings all her old feelings to the surface.

Learning his true identity has her questioning everything.

Second Chance Hero - Michelle Major

Rule #11: A real man doesn't build himself up by tearing others down.

Travis Jackson was nothing if not the man his father turned him into...cold and emotionless.

Hailey Moore sees Travis as a man that needs a hug.

In Hailey Travis sees the man his mentor seen in him.

Tutoring the Heartbreaker to Love - Hayson Manning

Rule #12: A real man doesn't touch the hired help.

Walker Hammond didn't have any wish to be domesticated.

Savannah Williams just wanted to move away from the memory loving a man who didn't return her feelings.

Under the guise of preparing him to be domesticated Walker hopes to fix it so Savannah will stay in the place she loves.

His plan can work for or against him.

[Misty (Reds Romance Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Heartbreakers & Heroes Anthology features twelve sinfully delightful tales that are sure to satisfy every readers appetite. Each short, but oh so sweet and captivating story is packed with promise, heat and heartfelt emotion, and I thoroughly enjoyed every single minute I spent reading each one of them!! These twelve talented authors are true masters of their craft and sure know how to write stories that will capture your heart, make you smile, reaffirm your belief in happy endings! I have to say it is truly one of the best anthologies that I have ever had the pleasure of reading, each story touched my heart and had me swooning the whole way through!!

HIDING WITH THE HEARTBREAKER by Virginia Nelson
While Al & Jude might be polar opposites, they seem to find a common bond when he comes to her aid and tries to keep her safe from the danger she unexpectedly wandered into... and the minute he does the sparks start flying!

HOW TO UNBREAK A HEART by Jennie Marts
The minute that Trip Turner learns that Bre Wilson is back in town he sets his plan for a second chance at love with her in motion, and decides that he will do whatever it takes to convince her what they have is worth exploring!

SECOND CHANCE HERO by Michelle Major
Two people from different sides of the tracks unexpectedly wander into each others lives, and not only discover love but a future neither of them expected!

HOMETOWN HEARTBREAKER by Heather Long
When Zeke returns home to follow his passion to coach baseball, and discovers his first love is single he instantly decides it's time for them to finally score their happily ever after. Now he just has to convince her to give them another shot...

HERO IN DISGUISE by Sharla Lovelace
Jake Jericho has everything he could possibly want... well except maybe finding real love. He thought he had it once, but it slipped away and he'd love nothing more than to find it again, except his work life always gets in the way. But the minute his ex-girlfriend Harper Haley waltzes back into his life he knows it fate giving him his second chance, but he has a little secret that could rip that chance away...

HER HEARTBREAKER BOSS by Carmen Falcone
Just when everything in Roxie Sullivan's life is finally going perfectly, the proverbial rug gets pulled out from underneath of her, by handsome new boss Stefano Mercado. He has plans, and those plans could potentially ruin everything she has worked so hard to build...

HOW TO BE A HEARTBREAKER by Codi Gary
The minute Sebastian Valentine steps back into his hometown of Promise he spots a girl who has always had a special place in his thoughts, they shared a passionate night together long ago, but he made the mistake of walking away. Now seeing her again, and learning she is still single has him thinking this may just be their perfect second chance... only she completely despises him and has no interest in rekindling the flame.

REFORMING THE HEARTBREAKER by Christine Glover
Addison Carrington harbored a crush on Ryder Bennett all through college, but she was never able to catch his eye, so eventually that crush became hidden under everything else in her life, and she move on. But he's about to come back into her life, and she is not the same dowdy girl she use to be...

HER UNWANTED HERO by Veronica Forand
Police Officer Griffin Alexander has seen the effects abuse can have on a family, his father was abusive to his mother, and it killed Griffin to watch his mother go through it and not be able to come to her aid. So, when he witness's Trinity Estrada in the same situation he sees it as his chance to finally right the wrong...

ONCE A HEARTBREAKER by T.J. Kline
Ty Preston thought he was doing the right thing when he walked away from the love of his life twelve years ago, but he soon realized that he had just made the biggest mistake of his life, and he has regretted it everyday since. He would love nothing more than to see her smiling face again and have a second chance at love with her, and fate might just give him that chance...

MAKE MINE A HEARTBREAKER by Jodi Linton
After being duped by her cheating ex Hannah Lawson is set to get revenge, so she heads to the nearest sex shop to purchase him a special gift, but just as she is finding his special gift the store is taken over by a robber. When she tries to find a safe hiding spot she runs into her brothers sexy friend and things take a really interesting, oh so sexy turn!!

TUTORING THE HEARTBREAKER TO LOVE by Hayson Manning
Walker and Savannah have history, history that left her with a broken heart and him with regret, but now he back in town and fate has thrown them back in each other's lives... question is will they find love this go around...

[Amanda Gard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will give this collection 5 stars overall, as there are more good stories than bad (and the couple of bad ones weren’t that bad. I’ve certainly read worse.) Reviews for each individual story are included below.

Hiding with the Heartbreaker by Virginia Nelson – 3 Stars
This was actually kind of boring. The characters were flushed out well enough, but there didn't seem to be much chemistry or passion between them. Nothing really happened, but they fell in love and I couldn't help but wonder how? The ending felt rushed and rather forced instead of lovely, with the reader having no idea why the H acted as he did when the MCs parted. Also the beginning started rather confusingly, like the story had started before I started reading. I felt lost and at least once I went back thinking I must have missed something. There was also a possible issue with the H's partner that was brought up, but never resolved. I’m not a fan of lose plot points. I figure don't bring it up if you're not going to resolve it.

How to Unbreak a Heart by Jennie Marts – 4 Stars
Pretty decent overall, but it felt lacking somehow. The ending came quickly and almost too easily. (Maybe because it was all wrapped up in too pretty of a bow??)

Her Heartbreaker Boss by Carmen Falcone – 4 Stars
A good premise and story overall, but I really wasn't satisfied with the ending. I don't understand the concept of taking the time to develop a story, and then - bam! - just ending it in a page. It's too neat and not realistic, and it leaves me disappointed in the story as a whole.

Her Unwanted Hero by Veronica Forand – 3 Stars
It had a great start. I loved Griffin, and Trinity seemed great at first. After a while though, she really pissed me right the hell off. I can understand where she is coming from, but it's no excuse to be a b*tch. This story lost a star for many stupid grammatical errors that pulled me out of the story, and another because the h's attitude was too much, and she was just not redeemable for me.

How to be a Heartbreaker by Codi Gary – 4.5 Stars
I liked that this story had a bit more depth, but I wish the h had a bit more maturity when dealing with the H.

Reforming the Heartbreaker by Christine Glover – 5 Stars
Well rounded and ultimately satisfying.

Once a Heartbreaker by TJ Kline – 5 Stars
Bravo! Yes! This was the kind of story I was hoping to read in this collection. The characters had matured, and the reader got to see what happened in the past in stark clarity instead of vague clues. The MCs had their issues and worked through them in a natural way. Overall, a very satisfying read.

Make Mine a Heartbreaker by Jodi Linton – 5 Stars
I loved the characters, especially how clutzsy they are. My only issue is the author's style of saying things in a way that doesn't show things happening, causing you to be confused for a moment in the next beat when something has happened or is happening.

Hometown Heartbreaker by Heather Long – 5 Stars
Wonderful story. Beautifully mature MCs and a sassy daughter. It didn't feel rushed and had a satisfying ending.

Hero in Disguise by Sharla Lovelace – 5 Stars

Second Chance Hero by Michelle Major – 5 Stars
This is a nice story where the MCs don't have a history, which is a refreshing change of pace. I absolutely loved Hailey. She is a breath of fresh air and I would love to have someone like her in my life. She's so honest, adorable, and so sweetly optimistic. Travis felt real as well, even though he had his moments of jerkiness, which Hailey took on with ease. My only complaint is the ending was a bit abrupt, which was a bummer after the MCs' relationship developed so organically. I wish there was a bit more or at least an epilogue.

Tutoring the Heartbreaker to Love by Hayson Manning – 5 Stars
Likable, but flawed MCs. A nice hometown story overall.

[Crystal Yawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a collection of 12 books based on one man who in some way saved the life of each man and taught them to be a man. Each short read is independent of the others but may tie in characters as guys they were on the ranch with. I'm over halfway through the box set and absolutely love each book so far! This box set is well worth the purchase price and so much more.


Hiding with the Heartbreaker
Virginia Nelson
5 stars

we start with a heartbreaker who is a bit of a hero. after witnessing a murder, Jude goes into hiding with rich playboy, joker Al. Their few days together are funny, Jude is scared, nervous and uptight and balanced with Al's laid back jokester lifestyle.
a really good short read that brings the two characters to life. I'd love a sequel to see what happens with these two. a few Awe tears at the end.

How to Unbreak a Heart
Jennie Mart's
4 stars

Second chance romance meats another Heartbreaker. Trip ripped out his and Bre's hearts when he left her. after years apart and a lot of growing can the two rekindle what they once had? Trip is a sexy reformed bad boy who did a bit of time in Juvie. Bre is a heartbroken successful vet. Both are great characters and the story of their reunion is electric.
The back story of why Trip left is a bit of a stretch, I would have liked a bit more drama to it after the build up. Short stories are hard because you are often left wanting more more more.

Her Heartbreaker Boss
Carmen Falcone
5 stars

a third heartbreaker and another second chance. After losing her virginity to her friend, he took off never to be seen again... Well until he buys the company she works for.
Seeing Stefano again and as her new boss who wants to change everything really throws Roxie for a loop. But she is able to maintain her strong personality and fight for the things she believes in and her job. she is a great strong character and was a real pleasure to meet.
Stefano is also a head strong reformed heartbreaker. He's made a great success out of life and I really enjoyed the banter between him and Roxie and how sexy is it that he's good with kids!
A little drama, a little sexy and a lot of over coming the past made this a great read.

Her Unwanted Hero
Veronica Forand
5 stars

Yay! we found a hero. and who better than a man in blue. Her Unwanted Hero is full of scary truth. Ms. Forand brings domestic violence to light. Shedding light on a truly horrible problem and the men determined to stop it. add in a bit of friends to lovers and it makes for a kick ass hero story that brings a few tears to your eyes.

How to be a Heartbreaker
Codi Gary
5 stars

This was fantastically fun read. another Heartbreaker leaves his mark, but gets a second chance. The banter between Bash and Ashlynn will leave you laughing and feeling good. add in a huge dog who has a thing for crotches and it's a very delightful read

Reforming the Heartbreaker
Christine Glover
5 stars

Normally by this point in a box set I've skipped a book or two or found one that's only 2 stars or so. This is such an amazing set if authors I'm in another 5 star book.
This PR nightmare was really fun to read. Ryder pushes all of Addison's buttons. We have another Heartbreaker with the opportunity to right his wrong and show Addison she is not fatty Addie. With the pressures of negative press and the truth hanging over them, this book keeps you entertained the whole way through.

[Got Romance! Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genre: Contemporary, Anthology, Romance
Length: Short Story, Novel
Heat Level: Spicy
Reviewer: Toni
Date: May 18, 2016

Though I have not completed the box set, the heart of the collection is the tough love of one mentor, John Stone; a man that opened his heart and home to troubled young men. He gave them rules to live by, rules that shaped boys into men.

This review is based on Heather Long’s contribution: Hometown Heartbreaker

Rule: A real man always puts his best foot forward.

Absolutely fell in love with the Zeke and Charity. Ms. Long pulled a hard story to satisfy. Did she do it?

I had really no clue what to expect when I read the blurb for Heather Long’s addition to the Heartbreakers and Heroes box set. What could she possibly mean by - Can she tell her two-all stars the truth or will a foul end her best chance? Yeah, I had an idea or two, but I was very pleasantly surprised.

Zeke is returning home to coach his hometowns kids. He hasn’t been home in years. He hasn’t been home because he couldn’t face the pain of losing Charity. To be reminded of the love he lost and the future he would never have.

Charity is in a pickle. Her life may not be what she planned many years ago, but she is content in the sacrifices she made. While she knows that there is a good chance Zeke will return to coach the hometown team, she needs to decide if she is ready to own up to the choices she made for both of them.

OH MY!!! Zeke’s and Charity’s story would be a hard one to pull off in such a short platform. Their characters had a history worth telling and not much time to tell it in.

Ms. Long did a great job introducing the couple and diving right into their healing. You could see right from the beginning the spark was not gone.  Lots of time had gone by and healing would be a long hard road.

I will be honest and say I would have loved to have read a full story of this couple. Ms. Long has an exceptional talent of character development and storytelling. She was able to capture the heart of the characters, but they would have shone so much more brightly if she could have given them her all her skills. She definitely used her time wisely and I was totally captivated by their story.

Hometown Heartbreaker was a wonderful short story with tons of heart, love and potential. It was very well written and I devoured it, but the subject matter deserved more time. I have no doubt that it will be a shining star in this boxset.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

For this review, I will only be talking about the three novellas in the Heartbreaks and Heroes box set that I have read at this point. I will continue to review the novellas should I read more in the future... I will say this, though. I love that the novellas are all connected by a youth camp that each of the twelve heroes attended years prior. That connection gives the reader a bit more background information without taking up too much time in each of the novellas. It also makes the box set more cohesive and it flows better from novella to novella. If I do have the opportunity to read the remaining novellas, I will definitely pick it up again. Until then, here are my thoughts on How to be a Heartbreaker by Codi Gary, Once a Heartbreaker by T.J. Kline, and Tutoring the Heartbreaker to Love by Hayson Manning.

To me, novellas fall into two categories: novellas I wish were longer and novellas that have the perfect length. Codi Gary's How to be a Heartbreaker has the humor and sexiness that I love with her books, I just wish it was longer so I could spend more time with Bash and Ashlynn. They were funny and adorable together. The build-up towards their reconciliation was perfect. It wasn't rushed and the characters were able to explore their feelings. However, I felt the ending was a bit rushed, which was another reason why I wanted it to be longer. Fun novella in a new setting, one that I hope Codi explores again in future books.

There is just something about a hero that comes home just to win over his heroine. In T.J. Kline's Once a Heartbreaker, Ty Preston is on a mission to prove how much he loves Rayne. His determination was sexy as hell. Rayne is a strong, independent woman that worked hard to get where she's at. I loved that both characters were not afraid of challenges, whether it be in their relationship or in another aspect of their lives. What I loved most about this novella was how it re-introduced me to the author's writing. I've read T.J.'s books before, but I'm a bit behind in her newest series. Okay, I'm a lot behind... After reading this novella, it just made me want to go back into the worlds she created and I hope to pick up her books again.

Tutoring the Heartbreaker to Love was my first time reading Hayson Manning. I must say... I'm hooked. I loved that Walker wants to make things better for Savannah while trying to insert himself into her life. That annoys Savannah to no end, but although she wouldn't willingly admit this, it does take a weight off her shoulders and allows her breathe a bit easier for once. I loved how Savannah doesn't dance around her desire for Walker. She wants him, even if it is for only two weeks. Hayson's writing style is sexy and fun. There were some lines that had me rolling (i.e. cock insurance). The fast pace was quick enough to move the romance along, but didn't feel rushed. I definitely look forward to checking out more of Hayson's works in the future.

I received an ARC copy in exchange for a honest review.

[Maria Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a review for one of the stories in this box set - it will be updated as more stories are read!

REFORMING THE HEARTBREAKER by Christine Glover

Ryder and Addison were friends in high school, until Ryder fell victim to peer pressure and didn't defend Addison to his friends when she overheard them calling her 'Fattie Addie'. Using that as the impetus to make a change, she made some positive lifestyle changes, exercising and changing her diet and becoming the woman on the outside that she always wanted to be. Several years have passed, during which Ryder became an Olympic bike riding champion, and Addie went to work for her father's PR firm. When their paths cross again due to a scandal that could tank Ryder's hard earned career, he's determined to own up to his mistakes of the past and convince Addison to give him a second chance. Dare she put her heart on the line for this man again?

I really enjoyed this story! First of all, while I enjoy sports romances, it's refreshing to find a story that features a sport that isn't baseball, hockey or football (the big 3 of the sport romance book world). I'm a big fan of the Tour de France and other bike races, so a romance featuring an Olympic cyclist was a fresh and original idea. Ryder comes across as a man who has definitely changed from high school. Since then, he's followed the rules of a mentor who taught him what it means to be a real man - and while this is partly the reason for the scandal he's involved in (determined not to embarrass a teammate over the actions of his wife), he's not unhappy that it's brought him into contact with Addie again, and the chance to make amends for having hurt her in the past. It's natural for Addison to be wary around Ryder, but her attraction to him has never gone away and when it's clear how sorry he is for the way their friendship fell apart it doesn't take long for the sparks to fly between them. We get some sexy scenes as they reunite, but it's not all flowers and good times - Addison must still come up with a way to fix Ryder's reputation, and decide whether she's going to trust him again. Eventually we get a smooth happy ending for this couple who started out as teenage friends and have found their way back to each other. 4 stars for this sexy read.

Note: a copy of this story was provided by the author for review.