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Crawley Creek #5

Handcuffed by Destiny

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A broken woman… After being kidnapped, tortured and surviving the brutality of human traffickers, Destiny Warren still finds every day a struggle. Every single minute she works to overcome her injuries, both visible and hidden. Despite her overpowering fear, she finds herself drawn to her rescuer, Brandon Bowers.

A man of honor… Bran Bowers was raised by his grandmother with a sense of responsibility and a serious demeanor. He’s spent his life working for everything he has, but Mother Nature and fate seem to be taking turns dealing his cards lately. Between a flash flood that wiped out his home, and a beautiful woman who’s scared to accept his protection, Bran has to roll up his sleeves and take a stand.

A mountain to climb… They say that love conquers all, but can it also overcome the horrors of PTSD? Destiny isn’t sure she can let Bran in, but she can’t seem to let him go. Will Bran walk away knowing he can never know her completely, or is he handcuffed to his own destiny?

**Note from the author: This story reflects on a woman’s victimization at the hands of terrible people. Possible triggers are involved in the storyline and thus should be taken into consideration.

148 pages, Paperback

Published August 31, 2016

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About the author

Lori King

80 books721 followers
Best-selling author, Lori King, is also a full-time wife and mother of three boys. Although she rarely has time to just enjoy feminine pursuits; at heart she is a hopeless romantic. She spends her days dreaming up Alpha men, and her nights telling their stories. An admitted TV and book junkie, she can be found relaxing with a steamy story, or binging in an entire season of some show online. She gives her parents all the credit for her unique sense of humor and acceptance of all forms of love. There are no two loves alike, but you can love more than one with your whole heart.
With the motto: Live, Laugh, and Love like today is your only chance, she will continue to write as long as you continue to read. Thank you for taking the time to indulge in a good Happily Ever After with her. Find out more about her current projects at http://lorikingbooks.com, or look her up on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LoriKingBooks or Twitter: https://twitter.com/LoriKingBooks.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews492 followers
August 21, 2016
This series just keeps getting better—more intriguing and addictive—with each new installment.

I've been anxiously awaiting this fifth book in the Crawley Creek series. I knew from their first interactions that Sheriff Bran Bowers and Destiny Warren were…well, destined. Their chemistry, even in light of all the obstacles they've overcome—or are working on overcoming—has been apparent from the get-go. And Lori King did a wonderful job of doing justice to their love story.

My heart ached for Destiny, as we watched her still struggling with the human-trafficking/forced prostitution ring that brought her to Montford, North Dakota, and Bran and the Crawley clan. It's a story we've been following throughout the previous books in this series (making this one not an easy standalone), and to see it up close and personal was immensely rewarding. And more than a little sexy, too, TBH.

I loved Bran, how he respected Destiny, tried to help her, protect her and then, love her. He was basically perfect; a man who wears a uniform and wears it well, cares for those he loves, and knows how to make his girl happy... If you know what I mean.

Smiling. Laughing. Finding joy. That's not what I might have expected from Handcuffed By Destiny, given the subject matter. But I did. I absolutely felt the hurt, sadness and fear that this couple experienced (thanks to Ms. King’s vivid and emotional storytelling), yet still, I left this book happier than when I started, and hopeful that, thanks to some new secondary characters, this series is far from over. If this one was awesome, and they keep getting better—really, is it any wonder I want more?! ~ Beth, 5 stars

~~~

To say I’ve been (im)patiently waiting for Bran and Destiny’s story in the fabulous Crawley Creek series is an understatement! Lori King has been teasing their tale since we met Destiny under horrific conditions in Rough Ride Romeo and I’m THRILLED Bran finally manned up and made his move.

Destiny survived a brutal existence and near death experience only to be left with symptoms of PTSD and feeling as if she’s completely alone in the world. She’s physically recovered from her injuries, but mentally, she’s still a work in progress—but oh, what progress she’s made. She’s finding herself seeking company of the women at Crawley Creek, she’s becoming less afraid of the men, and finding herself physically attracted to Bran.

Brandon Bowers knew Destiny was, well, his destiny, practically the first time he laid eyes on her. His protective instincts kicked right in and he barely left her side while she was recovering in the hospital from her attack. And now that she’s living at Crawley Creek—and he is too, due to the flood—Bran gets to see her everyday.

As Destiny continues her journey of recovery, will she allow herself to succumb to her feelings for Bran, or will she allow the horrors of her past predicate her future?

This series just keeps getting better and better. I adored the interaction between all the Crawley Creek “siblings” and their partners. Bran and Destiny are a large part of the Crawley Creek family, and Marilyn, Franki, Jeannette, Lauren and Lacy are more than happy to play Cupid. Their advice and comfort to Destiny is spot on to help her over her fears.

I loved Bran’s interactions with Roman, Drannon, Vin, Hawke and Nolan, too. They’re brothers from another mother, but family just the same and all that goes with it. I also love how they “circle the wagons” where their extended family’s safety is concerned.

The human trafficking story line that’s interwoven between the series continues to keep me guessing at every turn. And I, for one, cannot wait for more from this family. ~ Missy, 5 stars
Profile Image for Erica.
1,311 reviews32 followers
August 23, 2016
The Crawley Creek Series is one of my favorites and every new addition is just as amazing as the last. This series should be read in order, you cannot fully appreciate these characters if you don't start at the beginning!

Handcuffed by Destiny is Sheriff Brandon Bower's & Destiny Warren's story.
He was raised by his grandma after his parents tragic death. He befriends the foster kids of the Crawley Creek Ranch and is immediately taken in and accepted as another member of the family.
Now grown and having lost his home to a flood, he's living in a cabin on the ranch while he rebuilds.

Destiny Warren has been through hell on earth. Kidnapped, forced into prostitution and left for dead when Sheriff Bran finds her alive an stays by her side she begins to trust him. He makes her feel safe and that's something she didn't expect to feel with a man.
She has a long road ahead of her but with him by her side it seems she might just make it.

Bran want's to make a life with Destiny, but he can't tell her that for fear of scaring her. They begin a slow courtship that will make your heart swell. The man is a gentleman through and through and could not be more perfect for the woman who considers herself too damaged for someone like him.

And just when things seem to be going great, along comes a threat that could destroy everything they've built.

This story has everything I've come to know and love from Ms King and the ending has left me antsy for book 6!!
Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,684 reviews78 followers
August 23, 2016
4 star

I was pulled right into this story. This story contains heartbreak, pain, secrets, and suspense.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Forget Me Knot (Crawley Creek, #1)
Rough Ride Romeo (Crawley Creek #2)
Claiming His Cowgirl (Crawley Creek #3)
Sunnyside Up (Crawley Creek 3.5)
Hawke's Salvation (Crawley Creek #5)

This is Destiny and Bran's story. Destiny is drawn to Bran but feels as if no one would want her as she has scars on the inside and outside. Bran feels a pull to Destiny but want to go slow as he knows the trauma of her past. Can he help her overcome her past? Destiny is just starting to move on from her past when it starts coming back to haunt her. Can they figure out who is after her before she is taken from him forever? Or will Bran push her away when he thinks he can’t protect her? Can these two overcome their fear to be together or is it over?

I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,684 reviews78 followers
February 2, 2017
4 star

I was pulled right into this story. This story contains heartbreak, pain, secrets, and suspense.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Forget Me Knot (Crawley Creek, #1)
Rough Ride Romeo (Crawley Creek #2)
Claiming His Cowgirl (Crawley Creek #3)
Sunnyside Up (Crawley Creek 3.5)
Hawke's Salvation (Crawley Creek #5)

This is Destiny and Bran's story. Destiny is drawn to Bran but feels as if no one would want her as she has scars on the inside and outside. Bran feels a pull to Destiny but want to go slow as he knows the trauma of her past. Can he help her overcome her past? Destiny is just starting to move on from her past when it starts coming back to haunt her. Can they figure out who is after her before she is taken from him forever? Or will Bran push her away when he thinks he can’t protect her? Can these two overcome their fear to be together or is it over?

I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
Profile Image for Annamaria.
702 reviews13 followers
August 19, 2016
Five Amazing Stars! Destiny suffers from PTSD after being kidnapped and tortured by sex traffickers. She was at deaths door when she was rescued by Sheriff Bran. Destiny is being watched over by Bran and she feels safe with him. Slowly Bran starts to date Destiny but can she get her happily ever after that she deserves? This book will bring out all sorts of emotions in you, I was crying one minute, happy or angry the next. There are triggers in this book so read with caution. I was hooked from the first chapter and read it in one sitting. This is the sixth book in the Crawley Creek Series and can be read as a stand alone. I will be going back and reading the previous books for sure. I can't wait for the next one! Highly recommend!

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.

Plot: 5
Chemistry: 5
Pacing: 5
Ending: 5
Character Development: 5
Profile Image for Marcia Bucktin.
232 reviews3 followers
August 24, 2016

What's hotter than a cowboy? A cowboy who happens to be a hot sexy sheriff. This book bring you such a sexy sheriff.
Sheriff Brandon 'Bran' Bowers, has been trying to protect Destiny since the first day he met her, barely clinging to life. Destiny is not sure she can trust anyone .PTSD is riding her hard . She has been beaten, and violently abused at the hands of a sex trafficking ring leader. Staying at the Crawley Creek Ranch, she's finally starting to heal both physically and emotionally. Bran wants to help her heal her heart, but he didn't expect her to heal his too. Can they heal each other ?
Profile Image for Miranda Beazley.
672 reviews6 followers
January 14, 2017
I've been waiting on Destinys story since she joined Crawley Creek in Romeo. The play between her and Bran has been evident throughout the books.

Lori King doesn't disappoint in this story. It's been lovely to watch Destinys progress throughout the series but her progress thanks to Bran in this book has been the best. I loved reading as she found her feet again and opened up to life again. Their chemistry together and Brans understanding and compassion for Destiny is just swoon worthy.

Beware though, this book has an open ending.
Profile Image for Leah Keys.
136 reviews6 followers
June 9, 2017
Crawley Creek book #6 is finally Destiny’s HEA. I couldn’t wait to read this book because I really wanted Destiny to get her HEA after all the trauma she dealt with at the hands of the sex traffickers. Bran was the one to find her so it makes sense that they had a strong connection. He waited patiently for her to heal enough to accept his love and wooed her slowly so he didn’t scare her away. Bran’s character was a perfect gentleman and just what Destiny needed.
Profile Image for Amy Hansen.
493 reviews1 follower
March 6, 2022
Destiny and Brandon.

For the most part, this is Destiny and Bran's story, but there is still a lot of other stuff going on. For me, it retracts from there two. I get that the author is trying to set up the next stories and continue previous ones, but I am not sure that it is working for me. If these were not in KU, I probably would have quit a long time ago.
Profile Image for Jeanine.
1,048 reviews33 followers
February 8, 2019
Brandon and Destiny's romance is fun. So many issues to work through
1 review
April 21, 2022
Missing pages

Missing last 4 pages. Very disappointing to not get to read the ending of the book...did enjoy the series though.
Profile Image for Terri Oconnell.
303 reviews10 followers
June 19, 2023
Hot. Sexy. Heartwarming. Held my attention the whole time. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Heidi.
4,447 reviews2 followers
September 20, 2016
This is the sixth book in the Crawley Creek series and its the one I have been waiting for with baited breath and Miss King doesn't disappoint at all. I would suggest that if you have not read the others in this series then to fully appreciate the series as a whole I suggest you start with book one.

This is the story of Sheriff Brandon Bower's & Destiny Warren's this is the one that we have all been waiting for we have had sneak peeks through the other 5 books but finally, we get there's.

See Brandon was raised by his grandmother after his parent's death. He befriends all of the foster children from the Crawley Creek Ranch and he is immediately taken into the fold and is accepted as one of the family.

Now he is all grown up and as well as being the sheriff he is amongst anything coming back from having lost his home due to a flood, for the time being, he is living in a cabin on the Crawley creek ranch while he rebuilds his home.

Destiny Warren has been through utter hell on earth. she was Kidnapped, forced into a life of prostitution and then left for dead but Sheriff Brandon finds her very much alive but damaged. yet he stays by her side throughout it all and slowly but surely she begins to him in and trust him.

Brandon makes her feel all these things but most of all he makes her feel safe and that's something she could have never ever expected to feel like... let alone from a man.

Destiny has a long old road ahead of her and lots of curveballs to overcome but with Brandon, by her side, she may just make it.

All Brandon wants is to make a life with Destiny, but he can't just tell her this because it may just scare her off. So they begin a slow and steady courtship that will make your heart melt into a romantic puddle.

Now that everything is going well and things seem to be just as they should be a new threat is lurking on the horizon.... can these two make it out alive? can they have the happily ever after they just deserve?

I simply adore Brandon this man is a true gentleman you do not make men like him now he just could not be more perfect for the very woman who just seems to consider herself to be too much of damaged goods for him.

And Destiny wow that girl is a rollercoaster of all emotions if there is someone I wanted to power through it is her.

An awesome emotional yet romantic read and one which will pull your heartstrings.

4 Out Of 5 Hearts From Cariad Books



Profile Image for Jessica McSwain.
180 reviews2 followers
August 24, 2016
More... What I want is more of Lori King's super captivating writing... This is not the first and definitely will not be the last because geniuses can not keep them wonderful stories.. I was given this amazing story in exchange for an honest review..and boy was this one personal to me, PTSD is not something people should take lightly because it can and will change a person. But also remember that person is still themselves but require a little extra love and compassion. In this book you will get to meet the Crawley Creek characters if you don't know them but if you do then you get some more insight on what's going on. The story is about Brandon also known as Bran and Destiny. You will see the struggles each have to overcome to love and be loved unconditionally.
Bran is the sheriff and as such has seen some really horrible and scary things, but nothing could have prepared him for the scene of finding there victims in a dirty basement beaten, abuse and left dead, uncared for. But one of the victims was not quite dead, one was breathing and barely holding on...that victim/ survivor was Destiny Warren. She is so beautiful and strong but she doesn't see it. She hides herself from everyone but Bran is willing to try because she calls to something deeper in him. He knows that it won't be easy but he has enough love and patience to show her he means forever.
Destiny is a beautiful woman who had a run of bad luck..she was taken and beaten by a human trafficking group. They beat her badly and left her for dead but she was found and rescued by the sheriff named Brandon. This sheriff not only rescued her but is making sure she got better, but why, why won't he leave her alone, her mind is raging a war inside but her heart beats faster when he is around or just by a simple look. What will she do? Is she still in danger? If so what will Bran don't? Will he win her? Or lose her to PTSD?
Profile Image for Sharon.
1,820 reviews42 followers
August 23, 2016
It has been 9 months since Destiny was rescued and she is still shutting everyone out. Every morning she wakes up with nightmares of her experience. Very few details are shared except that she was abducted and abused and the people who harmed her have not been brought to justice. So if you shy away from graphic abuse scenes there aren’t really any graphic details in this book.

Brandon “Bran” Bowers is the Sheriff who found and rescued her and is still drawn to her, but is afraid of hurting her and bringing up bad memories. Finally his family and friends suggest that it is time and that she seems interested in him. Turns out they do click, but it is enough to overcome their pasts?

Unfortunately, I have to admit that I did not read the earlier books (since it wasn’t suggested) and as a result I was a bit lost with all the characters and how they were connected. I think to really enjoy the story and not be distracted by trying to put the pieces together they do need to be read in order. Like how was Destiny abducted twice? Any the burn victim, how does she fit into the story line. The plot seemed a bit choppy to me….now I’m not sure if that is because I didn’t read the earlier books or if that is just the way the plot was written. Overall I did like the interaction between Destiny and Bran and how they both worried about hurting each other. The way Bran was patient with her fears was genuine and sweet. I would like to read the rest of the series. There are unresolved events at the end of this book, so there will be more to come and to get the end of the story you must continue reading.

Hero 5 Stars / Heroine 5 stars / Steam 3 stars / Plot 3 stars / Overall 4 Stars
Designation: part of a series
Keys: Dual POV, MF, Troubled Past, Hard to Follow.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Wendy Hodges.
3,013 reviews45 followers
February 1, 2017
Top Customer Reviews





5.0 out of 5 stars
2016 · edit it was amazing Read in August By wendy s hodges on 23 Aug. 2016
Format: Kindle Edition
Handcuffed By Destiny
by Lori King (Goodreads Author)

20353481
Wendy Hodges's review
Aug 17, 2016 · edit

it was amazing

Read in August, 2016

Arc copy for an honest review.
Firstly this is an on going story, so you really need to read the whole series. Saying that each book the main focus is on one couple, but the overall story is continuing. This one the focus is Destiny, snatched and made a slave to human sex traffickers. Having survived the last attack barely she is recovering from all her trauma with the other couples and friends that she has made at Crawley Creek Farm, also still keeping a close eye on her is Bran sheriff and the man who found and saved her. The attraction is there, but she still feels that she shouldn't be feeling things like this after all the abuse she went through. He just wants to give her time to heal, not knowing if she will ever be ready but content to wait and see. With the main story still having repercussions, and not completely solved there is also the individual stories and backgrounds as this group of people get closer. Supporting each other in all ways. This has intrigue, some unexpected happenings as well as a building romance. Be warned that although some parts of this read are given an ending of sorts the on going part doesn't, so you really need to be invested in waiting for the next part and possibly the one after that as well. I feel it is worth that investment, I enjoyed it and was a bit flummoxed when it finished leaving me hanging . This was the first in this series I had read but now feel I will be going back to the start to read all the previous books, getting the whole story from the start. Great read.
Profile Image for Wendy Hodges.
3,013 reviews45 followers
August 17, 2016
Arc copy for an honest review.
Firstly this is an on going story, so you really need to read the whole series. Saying that each book the main focus is on one couple, but the overall story is continuing. This one the focus is Destiny, snatched and made a slave to human sex traffickers. Having survived the last attack barely she is recovering from all her trauma with the other couples and friends that she has made at Crawley Creek Farm, also still keeping a close eye on her is Bran sheriff and the man who found and saved her. The attraction is there, but she still feels that she shouldn't be feeling things like this after all the abuse she went through. He just wants to give her time to heal, not knowing if she will ever be ready but content to wait and see. With the main story still having repercussions, and not completely solved there is also the individual stories and backgrounds as this group of people get closer. Supporting each other in all ways. This has intrigue, some unexpected happenings as well as a building romance. Be warned that although some parts of this read are given an ending of sorts the on going part doesn't, so you really need to be invested in waiting for the next part and possibly the one after that as well. I feel it is worth that investment, I enjoyed it and was a bit flummoxed when it finished leaving me hanging . This was the first in this series I had read but now feel I will be going back to the start to read all the previous books, getting the whole story from the start. Great read.
Profile Image for Kristine .
1,830 reviews12 followers
August 18, 2016
Lori King has outdone herself with this addition to the Crawley Creek series, I loved it! Ms. King has created a world the continues to grow and evolve with each new book in the series. This book in the series features Sheriff Brandon "Bran" Bowers and Destiny Warren.

Destiny is staying at Crawley Creek Ranch while she heals from the physical and emotional scars of her ordeal with human traffickers. She looks forward to Bran visiting her everyday but is afraid to admit it. Bran wants to protect Destiny with all he has but is afraid of taking the first step in fear of causing emotional damage. Both need a nudge and push to start taking the steps toward their futures.

Ms. King has deftly written about the emotional turmoil that is caused by someone who suffers from PTSD and has deep emotional wounds and scars. It's evident in the author's writing that she took the time and care to write a believable character. Bran is written with such care and compassion as well, even displaying a few insecurities of his own making him equally believable.

This is part of a series but can be read as a stand-alone, Ms. King does a great job of filling in the backstory of the characters. I would recommend reading the series from the beginning to get a better understanding of all the characters and the overall story. It will be worth the time, all the stories are great!

I look forward to reading what happens next!

I received a copy of this manuscript from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Judy Miracle.
1,198 reviews12 followers
August 24, 2016
Each book that I have read in this series (I'll admit to being a few behind) just gets better and better. This is one of those series that it is so much better when you read every single one of them. Having read the first two I knew some of the characters in this book but there were a few that i was unfamiliar with and would have better grasp had i read the ones between them. That i plan to remedy very very soon.

In book 6 Handcuffed by Destiny we get Sheriff Brandon and Destiny's story. Brandon was raised by his grandma after losing his parents and became close friends with the kids at the Crawley Ranch which in turn made him a member of the family. Destiny has been through hell. Shes been kidnapped, forced into prostitution, watched people die and was left for dead herself.

Brandon watches over Destiny after finding her and wishes they could have more. Not wanting to push her past her limits or see her break he takes the plunge one day by asking for a simple date. Can this be the beginning to a happily ever after for the two of them? Or is Destiny to far damaged by all that she has been through to take that chance?

This book seriously had me hooked from the first chapter and I could not stop reading it until I was done. You will laugh, possibly cry, and get angry while reading this book, I know that I at least did. Cant wait to see what Lori has in store for us next
Profile Image for Ann.
1,755 reviews9 followers
August 23, 2016
I have to admit to having this book for a few days before I sat down to read it. I knew it was going to make me cry so I had to get myself ready for it. It was so worth reading. The heart-wrenching subject matter and the love and acceptance just made me cry. Ms. King did an excellent job with this story. She presented the subject matter in a way that was interesting and caring but without being heavy or degrading .

Destiny hasn't been able to move past her physical and emotional trauma. She doesn't think she'll ever be able to heal. Bran knows all about Destiny's past since he's the one who saved her. He's been trying to give her time to work through everything that happened to her since he loves her and wants her to share her life with him. He's not sure if he should push just a little or stand back and let her decide what she wants. Can Destiny move past her fears and trauma? Will Bran be able to convince her he's the one for her? Read for yourself....it's so worth it. But have some tissues handy.

I love the Crawley Creek series. Each book features a couple trying to find their own HEA, while there is an over-arcing storyline which carries over to the next book. Each book also features characters from the other stories (both past and future) which I find really interesting.
Profile Image for Annette.
114 reviews
August 23, 2016
A captivating read that proves love can conquer all things and that family is not always what you are born into. The reader is once again at the Crawley Creek Ranch and catching up on all our past favourite couples.

Sheriff Bran has felt an attraction to Destiny and can't get her out of his mind ever since finding her at deaths door. He quietly watches over her and doesn't want to risk traumatizing her anymore than what she has been through.

Destiny has been through hell at the hands of sex traffickers and lived, though just barely. She suffers from PSTD and just getting through a day now is a challenge. She does feel safe with Sheriff Bran.

Bran and Destiny's relationship is pushed in the right direction by many of the Crawley Creek family. These little and not so little nudges help this couple overcome many traumas from both their past lives. Love and communication will not allow the sex traffickers to win!

This book is best read in series to get the back story on everyone. I would also recommend to have tissues nearby as it is emotional and will tug at your heart. The ending was a stock which will call upon the reader to request the next book immediately from Ms.King.

ARC received for honest review.
Profile Image for Stacy Gragg.
159 reviews
August 25, 2016
Another great addition to the Crawley Creek series. Bran Bowers is the Sheriff of Their small town and had always had a need to take care of the people he cared about. Raised by his Grandma Mimi after his parents tragic deaths. He and his Grandma moved to North Dakota to start a new life. Bran meets the foster kids at Crawley Creek Ranch and Becomes a member of the family.
While investigating with his deputies he comes across three beaten bodies two have died one is barely hanging on. Destiny Warren has lived through hell. Kidnapped, forced into prostitution, beaten and left for dead she survives and makes a home at the Crawley Creek Ranch. With help from the ranches Psychiatrist and the constant visits from one sexy Sheriff Destiny slowly comes out of her shell.
But when her life is threatened along with the people she cares about can the Sheriff save them all before it's too late.
I love Bran and his caretaker ways. He was so patient with Destiny that you could actually feel the love he has for her. Destiny is a fighter and survivor, when she realizes her feelings for the sexy Sheriff she vows to fight for what she wants and with a little help from Marilyn, the ranches mama bear the couple could have a chance at a future.
3,149 reviews18 followers
August 15, 2016
Lori King captivates with another Crawley Creek Ranch episode!!

Bran is sheriff of the small town of Montford. He graduated top of his class from the academy and could have worked in any law enforcement agency – but chose to work for the community that embraced him as a young boy. Always protective, his instincts kick in higher when it comes to Destiny – a young woman he found almost beaten to death 9 months earlier. The head of the gang is dead now, but the crime ring is still active. Destiny is still very fragile and undergoing treatment for PTSD on Crawley Creek Ranch.

When Bran is informed Destiny watches him when he is not looking, he decides to start a campaign to woo Destiny, and no longer treat her like china. The difficulties of rebuilding her confidence and overcoming the dangers that still exist mean the odds run against them.

Crawley Creek Ranch embodies the true meaning of “family”. The relationships, comradery, and kicks in the behind provided by fellow family members create a heart-warming and scintillating story!!

*A complimentary copy was given in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Kathy Rouchelle .
975 reviews12 followers
August 21, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, right up to the point that I face planted into the brick wall of the cliffie! This is a wonderful, if not a bit difficult story line dealing with human sex trafficking and it's victims. Along with this story line you find a few mini stories within the main one, (well at least that's what I call them). You find several characters with interesting stories and personalities of their own including a veteran who suffers PTSD and has to get a service dog. Then there are the two main characters, Destiny and Bran. Destiny's character is as broken as one can be and she is written very well. Bran, well who wouldn't want to fall for a hot as hell gentleman of a Sheriff??? You just can't help yourself from rooting for the two of them to end up together, but will it end in a HEA? Who knows? The story line just kept getting more intriguing as the pages kept turning until you find yourself sitting on the edge of your seat as the story seems to be getting ready to explode. However, it didn't explode....at least not in this book...guess we'll have to wait for the next one to find out what happens. I for one cannot wait!!!
Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,684 reviews78 followers
February 6, 2017
4 star

I was pulled right into this story. This story contains heartbreak, pain, secrets, and suspense.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Forget Me Knot (Crawley Creek, #1)
Rough Ride Romeo (Crawley Creek #2)
Claiming His Cowgirl (Crawley Creek #3)
Sunnyside Up (Crawley Creek 3.5)
Hawke's Salvation (Crawley Creek #5)

This is Destiny and Bran's story. Destiny is drawn to Bran but feels as if no one would want her as she has scars on the inside and outside. Bran feels a pull to Destiny but want to go slow as he knows the trauma of her past. Can he help her overcome her past? Destiny is just starting to move on from her past when it starts coming back to haunt her. Can they figure out who is after her before she is taken from him forever? Or will Bran push her away when he thinks he can’t protect her? Can these two overcome their fear to be together or is it over?

I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
Profile Image for Lisa.
2,480 reviews13 followers
August 22, 2016
The blurb for this book intrigued me and I was so looking forward to reading it. It did not disappoint.

Destiny has been to hell and back. Since Bran rescued her he has been patiently waiting for signs that she is ready to move forward. With a little push from those around them, Destiny's life is full of sunshine for the first time in a long time but the storm clouds once again threaten to destroy her.

I didn't feel that I needed to read the earlier books in this series as Lori King did a fantastic joy of making the reader feel at home and as though the characters were old friends. I will definitely be indulging in the rest of this series.

Destiny is a character with remarkable strength that you respect and admire. She gets under your skin as you empathise and want her to come out on top.

This was an incredible read with hints of future story lines, suspense and romance. Massive credit to Lori King for creating a world that the reader feels a part of and doesn't want to leave.

***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Profile Image for Denise.
4,120 reviews12 followers
August 26, 2016
First off I though I had read this author before but I guess I did not. This one I realized also was one in a line of a series. Then again no matter on that because when I started it I did not realize it till later into it but it does its own telling just fine. Destiny is one complex character but one you want to know right away. Brandon is one that has the heart of a lion with from the beginning has been by her side. The author then weaves the tale of these two with the drama that follows them. Regardless of what life gives you this author shows how one can heal and yet show scars without terror in every turn. The only way I do believe that is possible though is with love as given in this one that takes shape. Crawley Creek also seems to be a place where family is there with that also being a important factor. Man Oh man that house that is being designed and will be built is dreamy. So basically this is a capture of a different kind then what one would expect. Does a girl good too when she can be the one that lassos the heart.
Profile Image for Leanne ~ Tales From The Heart.
2,579 reviews32 followers
August 15, 2016
Lucky me got to proof read this story. I needed time to absorb it all before coming back to review.
This is a story that proves love does conquer all.
Destiny is a broken woman, she's suffered what no woman should be put through. Treated like property, feeling worthless can she survive this emotional trauma?
Bran Bowers is her hero, her saviour. Can he heal her heart?
I can tell you I wasn't even a quarter of the way into this book and I was crying. Such a powerful tale that will give you the 'feels', make you angry, sick and every other emotion you can think of. I think this author would have struggled researching some of these details. It's real, brutally real...not all harsh though, you will appreciate the journey of love.
The story line was well paced, I read it over one afternoon. The characters were real and a joy to discover. I look forward to more in this series.
Profile Image for Karen Roma.
2,762 reviews33 followers
September 7, 2016
Destiny’s story was always going to be gut wrenching and packed with the type of emotional impact that would tear your soul to shreds.

But through all the pain, devastation and suffering this young woman has endured, Ms King showed that her inner strength and desire to live and be loved would enable her to overcome the worst of her fears with the help and understanding of a very special man.

Bran is every woman’s dream; compassionate, patient and determined to win the heart of this fragile, yet resilient soul. While his nurturing nature and calm, easy presence allowed Destiny to move at her own pace, Bran was also unwavering in his ultimate goal……to call Destiny his own.

Just when you think Crawley Creek can’t embed it self further under your skin, along comes Bran and Destiny.
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