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Hometown Hero's Redemption
A Temporary Father
When he becomes guardian to his friend's troubled ten-year-old boy, firefighter Drew Gannon knows he needs help. But before he can get former social worker Lauren Pierce to agree, he's got to prove he's changed from the sports jock who gave her a hard time back in high school. Returning home, Lauren wants no part of her old profession. She only wants to forget the unspeakable tragedy she left behind. She can't take responsibility for another child. Or a reunion with Drew--no matter how generous he's become. But a desperate boy and his handsome guardian may be more than Lauren can resist...
When he becomes guardian to his friend's troubled ten-year-old boy, firefighter Drew Gannon knows he needs help. But before he can get former social worker Lauren Pierce to agree, he's got to prove he's changed from the sports jock who gave her a hard time back in high school. Returning home, Lauren wants no part of her old profession. She only wants to forget the unspeakable tragedy she left behind. She can't take responsibility for another child. Or a reunion with Drew--no matter how generous he's become. But a desperate boy and his handsome guardian may be more than Lauren can resist...
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published May 23, 2017
17 people are currently reading
397 people want to read
About the author
Jill Kemerer
117 books624 followersJill Kemerer is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of heartwarming, emotional, small-town romance novels often featuring cowboys. She is a multi-published author of Christian romance novels with Harlequin Love Inspired. Nearly a million of her books have sold worldwide.
A former electrical engineer, Jill now writes full-time. Her essentials include coffee, caramels, a stack of books, and long walks outdoors. She rarely passes up a bookstore and spends too much time at the library. She resides in Ohio with her husband. They have two adult children. For more information, visit her website, jillkemerer.com.
A former electrical engineer, Jill now writes full-time. Her essentials include coffee, caramels, a stack of books, and long walks outdoors. She rarely passes up a bookstore and spends too much time at the library. She resides in Ohio with her husband. They have two adult children. For more information, visit her website, jillkemerer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 27, 2017
In the final installment of the Lake Indwell Series we meet firefighter Drew Gannon, the guardian of his best friend's son and desperate for help in securing a "normal" environment for the child whose life has been upended and the only one experienced to help is the goody-two-shoes girl from his past-Lauren Pierce.
My opinion of these short novellas often vary because for as many as I've read they too often feel fast, formulaic, and dismissible. However, author, Jill Kemerer, brings so much authenticity to her novellas that I can't help but become instantly immersed in the story world. And Hometown Hero's Redemption is no exception.
One of my favorite things about this story is the twists and setbacks Ms. Kemerer weaves throughout the plot bringing complexity to the novella you'd find in longer novels. The characters behave and react naturally, which I love because it makes them feel real. The faith element is subtle and organic as it breathes a sweet theme that resonated with me.
Hometown Hero's Redemption is the perfect summer read and might be my favorite of the series!!
My opinion of these short novellas often vary because for as many as I've read they too often feel fast, formulaic, and dismissible. However, author, Jill Kemerer, brings so much authenticity to her novellas that I can't help but become instantly immersed in the story world. And Hometown Hero's Redemption is no exception.
One of my favorite things about this story is the twists and setbacks Ms. Kemerer weaves throughout the plot bringing complexity to the novella you'd find in longer novels. The characters behave and react naturally, which I love because it makes them feel real. The faith element is subtle and organic as it breathes a sweet theme that resonated with me.
Hometown Hero's Redemption is the perfect summer read and might be my favorite of the series!!
April 23, 2017
Hometown Hero’s Redemption
By: Jill Kemerer
Hometown Hero’s Redemption is a Love Inspired Heartwarming romance. I really did love this story. Kemerer did it again. She has herself another winner. She did not disappoint me. I caught myself with crying several times. Drew is a vey tender hearted and handsome fireman. He is trying to raise his best friend’s son and him a bachelor. He needs help looking after this troubles ten year old. He has someone in mind , but not sure if she will help him after the way he did her. This is a story about mistakes and forgiveness .
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that had to give a positive review.
By: Jill Kemerer
Hometown Hero’s Redemption is a Love Inspired Heartwarming romance. I really did love this story. Kemerer did it again. She has herself another winner. She did not disappoint me. I caught myself with crying several times. Drew is a vey tender hearted and handsome fireman. He is trying to raise his best friend’s son and him a bachelor. He needs help looking after this troubles ten year old. He has someone in mind , but not sure if she will help him after the way he did her. This is a story about mistakes and forgiveness .
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that had to give a positive review.
May 1, 2017
This was my second book by Jill Kemerer and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Kemerer has created characters that have real problems and live in a real world. The theme here is forgiveness, which is sometimes one of the very hardest things in the world to do, especially when someone never apologizes.
Kemerer also tackles the difficult situation of a child dealing with extreme hurt and also ongoing issues because of the hurt. This is handled very well by her characters, too. I wouldn't hesitate a moment to recommend this book to anyone.
*I was given a preview copy of this book by the author. My review is my own honest opinion.
Kemerer also tackles the difficult situation of a child dealing with extreme hurt and also ongoing issues because of the hurt. This is handled very well by her characters, too. I wouldn't hesitate a moment to recommend this book to anyone.
*I was given a preview copy of this book by the author. My review is my own honest opinion.
April 13, 2017
Tragedy from the past can affect the present. This is a story of people who have experienced unique painful situations and are dealing with life in their own special ways. From a child who has a parent in jail and a parent deceased, to a social worker who doubts her abilities, to a firefighter trying to raise his best friend's son, each character has the ability to trust and love again. The author tells a touching story that gives honest heartfelt emotions. A great story. I received an advance copy of this book with no obligation to review it.
May 19, 2017
Oh wow, LOVED this story! Starting over, redemption and forgiveness....Lauren and Drew each have a past to overcome and taking care of Wyatt is just what their hearts need to heal and move on. Kemerer brilliantly and respectfully covers intense subjects in this sweet romance while illustrating God's grace and His love within these characters and small town community. Loved it from the first page, am truly amazed a small book can hold so much goodness :)
I received a complimentary copy from the author, the thoughts and comments are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author, the thoughts and comments are my own.
May 18, 2017
Young Wyatt has seen too much of the hard life at age ten. Drew Gannon takes guardianship when Wyatt’s dad goes to jail & moves them back to Lake Endwell. Lauren Pierce once helped troubled kids, but tragedy tainted her career and made her walk away. Past meets present in this tale of forgiveness, and overcoming life’s hurts through faith. It tackles many not-so-perfect areas of life and the author handles them with grace and forgiveness. By showing them that God loves them no matter their life choices and forging a friendship to help strengthen and lift each other up.
I really loved seeing the growth in each character. My heart ached for Wyatt and his wanting to be accepted by his peers and the adults who matter. And for the different ways both Lauren and Drew showed him that they cared & loved him. The thing I really enjoyed was seeing them turn back to God and rely on his strength and accepting His unconditional love to forge a new life together. The romance was very charming, each one trying to deny it due to past hurts. But really, how can you stop true love? Read this one with a good quantity of Kleenex around! It has plenty of touching scenes and emotional depth. I’d have to say my favorite line in this book comes from Lauren’s mom & it can apply to anyone!
“Lauren, you do understand God loves you as is, right? You can’t earn His love. It’s a grace thing.”
This one’s for anyone who enjoys stories of faith, forgiveness, redemption and forging a new life in spite of the past one!
* I received a complimentary copy from the author. No favorable review was require and all opinions expressed her are strictly my own. *
I really loved seeing the growth in each character. My heart ached for Wyatt and his wanting to be accepted by his peers and the adults who matter. And for the different ways both Lauren and Drew showed him that they cared & loved him. The thing I really enjoyed was seeing them turn back to God and rely on his strength and accepting His unconditional love to forge a new life together. The romance was very charming, each one trying to deny it due to past hurts. But really, how can you stop true love? Read this one with a good quantity of Kleenex around! It has plenty of touching scenes and emotional depth. I’d have to say my favorite line in this book comes from Lauren’s mom & it can apply to anyone!
“Lauren, you do understand God loves you as is, right? You can’t earn His love. It’s a grace thing.”
This one’s for anyone who enjoys stories of faith, forgiveness, redemption and forging a new life in spite of the past one!
* I received a complimentary copy from the author. No favorable review was require and all opinions expressed her are strictly my own. *
April 15, 2017
Love love and love!! Sometimes the most difficult choice we'll ever have to make is choosing to forgive ourselves, freeing us from all of the pain, guilt, and shame that we were never meant to carry. But once we do, amazing things can happen!
April 29, 2017
Forgiveness is the only way that any of us will ever be able to truly move forward with our lives. In this book Lauren must forgive the man whom made high school horrible for her, as well as herself for a burden in which she insist is her fault. We have to realize that we aren't responsible for everyone else's actions. We can help other's but those other's have to want the help. If someone is not willing to help themselves we will be wasting our time. Lauren takes own helping a child in a profession she refused to do again. This child is damaged in more ways than he is willing to let someone in to see. The challenges she faces in this story are so inspiring with the way they are overcame. This book inspired me in many ways. As a person who lost a mother to murder at a young age Jill hit every emotion I was feeling with the way she described the grief Wyatt was undergoing. The feelings he felt toward Drew who was his guardian. The anger he felt toward his father for not being able to be there. These emotions brought to life on paper really hit home. This book will always be deeply treasured by me. Jill this book was such a blessing to me. Thank you!!
May 18, 2017
I loved reading all of Jill Kemerer's Lake Endwell books and was so excited to read this fifth and final book. It did not disappoint. (Well, I am disappointed the series is ending.) I was immediately drawn to the characters who were new to the series. There were so many twists and turns that I did not want to put down the book. At the same time, I wanted to savor it and make it last. I will miss the characters. They developed so much throughout the story that I wish I could see where life takes them next.
I did receive an advance copy but with no obligation to review it. Of course, I had to review this wonderful book with my five star rating. It is truly an enjoyable and captivating book.
I did receive an advance copy but with no obligation to review it. Of course, I had to review this wonderful book with my five star rating. It is truly an enjoyable and captivating book.
April 12, 2017
Hometown Hero's Redemption may be my favorite book by this author thus far. It was so sweet and I fell for the hero, Drew. He is now my new book boyfriend. Swoon... Why? Well, he was a hot firefighter who was so tender and loving towards his godson. He was so selfless to be a single bachelor and take on the responsibility of his best friend's son. I can go on and on about him. So, I suggest you get this book and read it for yourself. You may get a new book boyfriend too.
*I was given this book by the publisher and was under no obligation to leave a review.
*I was given this book by the publisher and was under no obligation to leave a review.
May 4, 2017
One of Kemerer's best books yet! I immediately fell in love with Drew and Lauren and ten-year-old Wyatt. The chemistry leapt off the page. The vulnerability was palpable. This is a sweet and tender story of loving, forgiving, and hope for a future when dreams and hearts have been shattered. If you enjoy sweet romances in small towns and hunky fire fighter heroes, this is a book you'll love. It's sad to see the Lake Endwell series come to a close but maybe we can hope for an encore for the future!
April 10, 2017
Once again Jill knocks it out of the park on this one! The last book in her series of Lake Endwell introduces a new character that is not related to the Sheffields. He was the sport god back when he was in high school and comes home after his best friend went to jail and he was left with raising his son. You find yourself routing for Drew and Lauren to just fall in love! I cannot wait for the next series of books from Jill!
April 9, 2017
This is the final book in the Lake Endwell series and as with all the others this ones amazing. Jill does an incredible job of getting you personally involved with the hero and heroine. Drew and Lauren have difficult pasts to overcome and both chose careers that require personal sacrifice. This is a great book I suggest you don't pass it up !!
May 23, 2017
This is a heart touching story. Lauren Pierce grew up in Lake Endwell, Michigan as a straight-A student, prom queen and captain of the cheerleading team, but she was also bullied. So after graduating college she ends up in Chicago where she worked with neglected/traumatized children until she ends up traumatized by a case and heads home with plans to never be involved in social work again. Drew Gannon also grew up in Lake Endwell and was the star quarterback. He's in an unexpected situation at present. He's now the guardian of a friend's son who's having a hard time dealing with his dad's imprisonment. Drew wants what's best for Wyatt and moves back home, taken a positions at the local fire station, and is on a mission to get Lauren to help with Wyatt. The history between the two is not good, but can they put their differences aside to help Wyatt? Can Lauren put her heart on the line to help another child?
This is a sweet story that includes elements of anger, hope, faith, trust, romantic tension, a small amount of mystery and love. For me I draw in from page one by both the plot and the characters. The plot flows effortlessly. The characters are strong and well developed. I was drawn to Lauren and how she was trying to make a new life for herself, even if it wasn't the one she had always dreamed of. Drew is what dreams are made of. He's got a heart of gold and puts his life on hold to help a young boy through a difficult time in his life which shows his true character. This is a well written story and I would recommend it to anyone.
**I received this book from the author. I was not expected to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a sweet story that includes elements of anger, hope, faith, trust, romantic tension, a small amount of mystery and love. For me I draw in from page one by both the plot and the characters. The plot flows effortlessly. The characters are strong and well developed. I was drawn to Lauren and how she was trying to make a new life for herself, even if it wasn't the one she had always dreamed of. Drew is what dreams are made of. He's got a heart of gold and puts his life on hold to help a young boy through a difficult time in his life which shows his true character. This is a well written story and I would recommend it to anyone.
**I received this book from the author. I was not expected to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 15, 2017
Lives are changed drastically when a famous father commits a revenge crime, leaving his son in the care of his best friend. Drew ends up, quite reluctantly due to his past, moving Wyatt to his hometown to escape the media attention. Lauren also moves home after burning out as an inner city social worker.
Lauren reluctantly becomes Wyatt's babysitter, using her training to assist his inner healing. She also becomes drawn to Drew, despite their past interactions. The attractions between Drew and Lauren are strong but both are overwhelmed by their past and current situations. Can healing take place in their lives so they can move forward into the life that seems to be calling them toward? Read to find out.
I really enjoyed reading this story. I liked that both characters had a past, with different hurts instead of only one. Jill did a great job quickly explaining a realistic social work burn out. I appreciated the resolution and healing that took place regarding this, particularly when Lauren's adopted mom corrected her view point of her foster homes. I would have liked a better resolution regarding Wyatt's dad recognizing and taking responsibility for his continuous selfish actions but that's real life.
If you are looking for a light, yet sprinkled with deep truths, read, I would definitely recommend preordering this book. It releases on June 1st on Amazon. Or check out your local Christian bookstores to preorder it while supporting a local/small business.
I did receive an advanced copy in order to review it but in no way did that color my opinions.
Lauren reluctantly becomes Wyatt's babysitter, using her training to assist his inner healing. She also becomes drawn to Drew, despite their past interactions. The attractions between Drew and Lauren are strong but both are overwhelmed by their past and current situations. Can healing take place in their lives so they can move forward into the life that seems to be calling them toward? Read to find out.
I really enjoyed reading this story. I liked that both characters had a past, with different hurts instead of only one. Jill did a great job quickly explaining a realistic social work burn out. I appreciated the resolution and healing that took place regarding this, particularly when Lauren's adopted mom corrected her view point of her foster homes. I would have liked a better resolution regarding Wyatt's dad recognizing and taking responsibility for his continuous selfish actions but that's real life.
If you are looking for a light, yet sprinkled with deep truths, read, I would definitely recommend preordering this book. It releases on June 1st on Amazon. Or check out your local Christian bookstores to preorder it while supporting a local/small business.
I did receive an advanced copy in order to review it but in no way did that color my opinions.
May 28, 2017
I really enjoyed Hometown Hero's Redemption by Jill Kemerer. Drew Gannon was a high school football hero who gave the heroine of the story, Lauren Pierce, a hard time in school. Now he’s a firefighter who is the temporary guardian of his friend’s son, Wyatt. When Drew and Lauren both return to their home town, Drew tries to enlist Lauren’s help with Wyatt. The characters in this story are realistic, flawed, and engaging. I enjoyed watching Drew, Lauren, and Wyatt strive to overcome their obstacles and circumstances. Threads of faith, forgiveness, and redemption are woven throughout the story and add an extra dimension to it. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys heartwarming stories. I will definitely be looking for more books by this author.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
August 29, 2017
This story was such an amazing journey!
First, we have Lauren Pierce, who has went through some thoroughly traumatizing events, which led her back to Lake Endwell. Then we have Drew Gannon, who also moves back to Lake Endwell, after an unexpected event. Of course, Lauren and Drew went to school together and their history isn't good. Now, put all that together and throw in a few bumps and bangs.
Jill Kemerer has created awesome characters to get to know. Get to know them and lose yourself in this well-written story! I cannot bring myself to give anything else away, but believe me, this is an awesome tale of life and love and forgiveness.
Whatever you do, don’t miss out on this wonderful novel.
April 29, 2017
This is the final book in the Lake Endwell series. As with the previous books it is a heartwarming story about relatable characters. Once again Jill Kemerer is able to get us to look inside ourselves as we put ourselves in her characters' shoes.
I am sorry to say good-bye to Lake Endwell and it's families, but eagerly await more books from Jill!
*I received an advance copy of this book with no obligation to review it.
I am sorry to say good-bye to Lake Endwell and it's families, but eagerly await more books from Jill!
*I received an advance copy of this book with no obligation to review it.
May 24, 2017
Hometown Hero's Redemption by Jill Kemerer is the last book in the Lake Endwell series and I'm sorta sad to see the series end. Jill pours her heart into these heart warming stories with real life situations and realistic characters. I was drawn into the book from the very first scene. It captivated my heart. Being a former social worker myself, this story was so relatable.
Firefighter Drew just received guardianship of his best friend's 10 year old son, Wyatt, after his father went to prison. Drew needs to find a babysitter who will watch his godson while he's at work. The only person he can think of is Lauren, a former social worker, whom he knew from high school. Lauren has just returned to the area but the last thing on her mind is taking care of a child. Will Drew be able to convince her that he's changed? Will she decide to help him out?
Both of the main characters, Drew Gannon and Lauren Pierce, have experienced loss and heartache in their past, so it affects them from getting too close to someone. They both must overcome their own obstacles in order to work together in their present situation. Forgiveness and trust play a major role in this story. Until you have these characteristics established, it's hard to build a relationship with someone. It's really hard to work together for the betterment of the child without this. This story pulled at my heart and I recommend it. I received this book from the author and wasn't obligated to post a review. All opinions are my own.
Lastly I'm sharing my favorite quote from the book as said by Lauren's mom, "God didn't put you on earth to save every soul you come into contact with. He's in the saving business. Let Him do his job." It's a grace thing. This is when Lauren truly forgives herself and frees herself from the guilt that made her leave social work. It also helped her to realize that she's worth someone loving her again.
Firefighter Drew just received guardianship of his best friend's 10 year old son, Wyatt, after his father went to prison. Drew needs to find a babysitter who will watch his godson while he's at work. The only person he can think of is Lauren, a former social worker, whom he knew from high school. Lauren has just returned to the area but the last thing on her mind is taking care of a child. Will Drew be able to convince her that he's changed? Will she decide to help him out?
Both of the main characters, Drew Gannon and Lauren Pierce, have experienced loss and heartache in their past, so it affects them from getting too close to someone. They both must overcome their own obstacles in order to work together in their present situation. Forgiveness and trust play a major role in this story. Until you have these characteristics established, it's hard to build a relationship with someone. It's really hard to work together for the betterment of the child without this. This story pulled at my heart and I recommend it. I received this book from the author and wasn't obligated to post a review. All opinions are my own.
Lastly I'm sharing my favorite quote from the book as said by Lauren's mom, "God didn't put you on earth to save every soul you come into contact with. He's in the saving business. Let Him do his job." It's a grace thing. This is when Lauren truly forgives herself and frees herself from the guilt that made her leave social work. It also helped her to realize that she's worth someone loving her again.
May 23, 2017
I have truly enjoyed the Lake Endwell series. I can't decide if I like Hometown Hero's Redemption or Unexpected Family best. The characters are brought to life, and I end up feeling like I know them. This story was engaging. I enjoy helping others, especially children. Lauren's compassion and love for Wyatt really spoke to me. I had a hard time putting it down!
*I received an advance copy of this book with no obligation to review it.
*I received an advance copy of this book with no obligation to review it.
January 8, 2025
A sweet tale about Drew, who had been a jerk when he was a football star and Lauren, one of the girls he had laughed at and made fun of. When Dale returned to his home town to look after his godson, Lauren seemed to be the only good choice to babysit when he was at work. As they work together to help the troubled boy, romance blooms.
May 31, 2017
Another great story by Jill Kemerer. Hometown Hero’s Redemption is about the choices we make, choices that are made for you, and what you do about them. I laughed, I cried. I determined to do better. This book is more than just an inspirational romance. It goes to the heart of the matter, pulling out feelings, experiences, and relationships, to make the story real to life.
Lauren experienced a traumatizing childhood of drug abuse and foster homes. Her career as a social worker makes her the perfect candidate to babysit Drew’s best friend’s son, whose father is in jail, while he works at the fire station. If Drew finds out about her last case, will he think she’s as inept as she feels? Can Drew convince her he’s not the same person she knew in high school?
Hometown Hero’s Redemption is a great read. From Drew being the high school football quarterback to getting kicked off the college football team, to Lauren’s childhood and career as a social worker, this story digs deep but delivers a more than satisfactory ending. Readers who enjoy an inspirational romance with a slice of real life will love this story.
I received a free copy in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
Lauren experienced a traumatizing childhood of drug abuse and foster homes. Her career as a social worker makes her the perfect candidate to babysit Drew’s best friend’s son, whose father is in jail, while he works at the fire station. If Drew finds out about her last case, will he think she’s as inept as she feels? Can Drew convince her he’s not the same person she knew in high school?
Hometown Hero’s Redemption is a great read. From Drew being the high school football quarterback to getting kicked off the college football team, to Lauren’s childhood and career as a social worker, this story digs deep but delivers a more than satisfactory ending. Readers who enjoy an inspirational romance with a slice of real life will love this story.
I received a free copy in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
May 24, 2017
A man trying to live up to his promise, a child struggling to make sense of tragedy and both needing a woman to help them heal. This book is all the best feelings and more. And the first line will grab you!
Drew is the charmer, well now he is. He does sound like he was a bit rough around the edges in high school. Being a jock and popular. He is showing he is a man of honor now, though and I can always enjoy a great character that has grown up. Drew begins with ice cream, and confusion,and trust me you need some great ice cream to dig into with this book. It calls for it. What the reader doesn't expect is the quick ability to fall for Drew, I am a sucker for characters like him.
Lauren is strong. Jill Kemerer has that ability to give her females strength during adversity. Just like Drew Lauren has grown up from her high school time. And she is certainly not looking to the past, well okay she is a woman and holds a small grudge/feelings for awhile but just like this reader, she comes around. I really felt for her in guarding her emotions, it is hard to feel at times and this is displayed beautifully in this story.
Our beloved characters will melt your heart, and give you the warm and fuzzies. How could it not? With the heart warming message and ability to love those that aren't blood, this book hits it out of the park.
Drew is the charmer, well now he is. He does sound like he was a bit rough around the edges in high school. Being a jock and popular. He is showing he is a man of honor now, though and I can always enjoy a great character that has grown up. Drew begins with ice cream, and confusion,and trust me you need some great ice cream to dig into with this book. It calls for it. What the reader doesn't expect is the quick ability to fall for Drew, I am a sucker for characters like him.
Lauren is strong. Jill Kemerer has that ability to give her females strength during adversity. Just like Drew Lauren has grown up from her high school time. And she is certainly not looking to the past, well okay she is a woman and holds a small grudge/feelings for awhile but just like this reader, she comes around. I really felt for her in guarding her emotions, it is hard to feel at times and this is displayed beautifully in this story.
Our beloved characters will melt your heart, and give you the warm and fuzzies. How could it not? With the heart warming message and ability to love those that aren't blood, this book hits it out of the park.
August 30, 2024
Though this book was published seven years ago, the audio edition just released this month and I was happy to dive into ‘Hometown Hero’s Redemption’ since I missed it first time round.
I do love the way Jill Kemerer weaves emotion into her stories. Complex layers of accumulated angst that our hero and heroine have to fight their way through. Both their backstories are challenging, but the one they share together is what stands in the way of them working through everything else.
Nothing like revisiting high school angst to set already raw emotions on edge and Drew and Lauren’s meet-cute is a pretty much a disaster. She has reasons for being wary of him and he has reasons for needing her to believe he’s changed.
Loved the way they come together to help a traumatized child. The author realistically portrays the complications and turmoil involved. No sugar-coating the way to their happily ever after, but creating a hope-filled one just the same. I might have gotten teary at the end.
I do love the way Jill Kemerer weaves emotion into her stories. Complex layers of accumulated angst that our hero and heroine have to fight their way through. Both their backstories are challenging, but the one they share together is what stands in the way of them working through everything else.
Nothing like revisiting high school angst to set already raw emotions on edge and Drew and Lauren’s meet-cute is a pretty much a disaster. She has reasons for being wary of him and he has reasons for needing her to believe he’s changed.
Loved the way they come together to help a traumatized child. The author realistically portrays the complications and turmoil involved. No sugar-coating the way to their happily ever after, but creating a hope-filled one just the same. I might have gotten teary at the end.
January 11, 2018
This story explores the insecurity that every single one of us struggles with--the fear of not being good enough.
Lauren Pierce is a social worker scarred by seeing too much needles hurt and pain. Having been a foster child herself, she thinks she could save the world. In the end, she realizes that it's not her place to save the world. That's God's job. But she never would have understood that without letting Drew Gannon into her world and into her heart. Drew's past still haunts him. At one point, he was a selfish, entitled jerk. He's put all that behind him--or at least thinks he has, but can't seem to forgive himself until the lovely Lauren captures his heart. This truly is a story of redemption and acceptance and forgiveness and gratitude.
It's a quick, sweet read that will remind the reader that we are all good enough, if we will only see ourselves the way God sees us.
Lauren Pierce is a social worker scarred by seeing too much needles hurt and pain. Having been a foster child herself, she thinks she could save the world. In the end, she realizes that it's not her place to save the world. That's God's job. But she never would have understood that without letting Drew Gannon into her world and into her heart. Drew's past still haunts him. At one point, he was a selfish, entitled jerk. He's put all that behind him--or at least thinks he has, but can't seem to forgive himself until the lovely Lauren captures his heart. This truly is a story of redemption and acceptance and forgiveness and gratitude.
It's a quick, sweet read that will remind the reader that we are all good enough, if we will only see ourselves the way God sees us.
July 28, 2023
Aww, this book was unbelievablly awesome and capativing...
The story itself was quite intriguing and compassion. Drew Gannon is very thoughtful, loving and caring person whereas Lauren, who came from a abusive and disturbing childhood going from one foster home, unwanted, to another, until she found her "Forever Home", with "The Pierce". (A unconditionally loving family)
Lauren became a social worker to help, support, and place foster kid, in new homes. She faced a moral dilemma when two brothers, one was killed and the other went to jail, for joint a gang. Drew, a firefighter, who is childhood friend, asked her to babysit his best friend, Chase, son, Wyatt. (Chase went to prison for try to kill his drug addict wife, dealer).
I loved the writing styles and techniques of this author so therefore, I highly recommend this book.
The story itself was quite intriguing and compassion. Drew Gannon is very thoughtful, loving and caring person whereas Lauren, who came from a abusive and disturbing childhood going from one foster home, unwanted, to another, until she found her "Forever Home", with "The Pierce". (A unconditionally loving family)
Lauren became a social worker to help, support, and place foster kid, in new homes. She faced a moral dilemma when two brothers, one was killed and the other went to jail, for joint a gang. Drew, a firefighter, who is childhood friend, asked her to babysit his best friend, Chase, son, Wyatt. (Chase went to prison for try to kill his drug addict wife, dealer).
I loved the writing styles and techniques of this author so therefore, I highly recommend this book.
December 30, 2024
Having never read a book by Jill Kemerer, I was very pleased with the story of a high school star football player who loses his way in college. After getting custody of his best friend’s son, he moves back home and has to struggle to show he has changed.
In the meantime, the girl he made fun of in high school has also moved back home after getting burned out as a social worker in Chicago. Drew now has to talk her into staying with Wyatt, his ward when he works his 24 hour shift at the fire department. Lauren first tells him no but when she meets Wyatt, she decides to try and help the little boy whose father is in prison for murdering a drug dealer.
The characters are realistic in the way they deal with their emotions and writing is superb.
In the meantime, the girl he made fun of in high school has also moved back home after getting burned out as a social worker in Chicago. Drew now has to talk her into staying with Wyatt, his ward when he works his 24 hour shift at the fire department. Lauren first tells him no but when she meets Wyatt, she decides to try and help the little boy whose father is in prison for murdering a drug dealer.
The characters are realistic in the way they deal with their emotions and writing is superb.
September 12, 2017
Hometown Hero's Redemption by Jill Kemerer. Firefighter Drew Gannon is guardian of his best friends ten year old son, Wyatt. His father is in prison. Drew moves back to his home town to raise troubled Wyatt. Drew has asked an old friend, Lauren Pierce, whom he treated badly growing up, to care for Wyatt while he is at work. Lauren was a social worker in Chicago area. Lauren moved back home, because two troubled teens she couldn't help. One was in jail and one was killed. She blames herself. All three have problems they have to deal with while they heal. A good read.
May 3, 2019
This is a wonderfully sweet story of how Drew and Lauren come to terms of their past with each other. They went to high school together but were not together. Drew was a JOCK and Lauren was a quiet and shy girl. There is a lot of history between them that they need to solve. And then Drew brings back to his hometown a 10-year-old boy that is his best friends’ son. Well here are complications that, after some time, bring Drew and Lauren together. Drew is a firefighter and Lauren is an ex social worker. This is a story that will warm your heart for second chances.
November 2, 2024
A ten-year-old boy brings his guardian, firefighter Drew Gannon, and Lauren Pierce, a grieving social worker, together when Drew convinces Lauren to babysit little Wyatt on those days when Drew is at the firehouse.
Each harbors secrets that have rendered them extra-cautious about relationships that involve possible heartache. Which again figures in Wyatt when he scares both adults without meaning to and forcing both Lauren and Drew to come to terms with their feelings for each other and for their fears for teh future.
Each harbors secrets that have rendered them extra-cautious about relationships that involve possible heartache. Which again figures in Wyatt when he scares both adults without meaning to and forcing both Lauren and Drew to come to terms with their feelings for each other and for their fears for teh future.
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