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Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #9
Justice for Erin
As a game warden, Conor has encountered a lot of big game hunters, but none like this.Part-time bartender Erin Gardner is friendly to everyone who bellies up to her bar, including the local law enforcement and firefighters who keep her city safe. That’s where she meets game warden Conor Paxton, a regular who she asks to join a canoeing trip she’s leading for her university day job. When the trip leads to something more, Erin couldn’t be happier.Conor adores Erin, more than enough to help her continue to get over lingering self-esteem issues from her childhood. He’s thrilled he’s found someone who enjoys spending time in nature as much as he does.Just when the couple thinks they’re on their way to a happily ever after, Erin finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. But there’s no way she’ll just lay down and die. She’s woman enough to save herself—and lead her man to her when she’s done.** Justice for Erin is the 9th book in the Badge of Texas Heroes Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2017
1108 people are currently reading
794 people want to read
About the author
Susan Stoker
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New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
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http://www.stokeraces.com/contact-1.html
New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
Follow SUSAN:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorsstoker
www.facebook.com/authorsusanstoker
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorsusanstoker
Twitter: www.twitter.com/susan_stoker
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/susan...
Amazon: http://amzn.to/238Jw8c
For all upcoming books click here: http://www.stokeraces.com/coming-soon...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 259 reviews
July 9, 2019
Oh my, this book... it's amazing. I know when I read a Susan Stoker book, I'm going to fall in love but with Justice for Erin, I fell in hero worship!
Erin is a successful professor and part-time bartender who has her life together, on the outside. To look at her, you'd never know that inside she's haunted by a demon that more than 75% of Americans struggle with. She's smart, beautiful, outgoing, funny, etc and all the patrons at her bar like her immensely, oblivious to her insecurities. Completely blind to men hitting on her and people offering friendship, she's lives a rather solitary existence. Her father disappearing from her life at a young age, being stuck with a dreadful mother, and without many friends due to intense bullying, she's used to it. Erin is now independent, resourceful and outdoorsy, preferring to spend her time in nature than with many people.
Conor Paxton, a gorgeous game warden with a bevy of friends, has had a thing for Erin for ages. She's got a rocking body, a smart ass mouth and an innate sweetness about her that's intoxicating. She's also completely naive to the fact that he flirts with her every chance he can get. There's something that holds her back from completely embracing life and Conor longs to break down that door and show her the world. When she offers him a seat on a weekend camping trip with she and some of her students, he jumps at the chance to get close to her. Growing closer to her reveals what's eating away at her happiness and Conor sets his mind, and heart, on helping her slay her dragon.
I always know when I read a Stoker book, I'm going to see her champion a cause and I ❤ her for it!! In JFE, Susan Stoker tackles a subject that has been largely taboo for years and does so fearlessly! Reading this book was a bit of an emotional journey for me as I immediately connected and understood Erin and her struggles, as many women around the world will. The hope for us all is that one day we'll find our Conor, the almost too-good-to-be-true hero that sees past the standards of the world to the beauty we possess! Don't despair girls, I've seen it happen outside of romance novels!
Thank you Mrs. Stoker for sharing this book and your dream for a better, kinder, more accepting world with us!!
Erin is a successful professor and part-time bartender who has her life together, on the outside. To look at her, you'd never know that inside she's haunted by a demon that more than 75% of Americans struggle with. She's smart, beautiful, outgoing, funny, etc and all the patrons at her bar like her immensely, oblivious to her insecurities. Completely blind to men hitting on her and people offering friendship, she's lives a rather solitary existence. Her father disappearing from her life at a young age, being stuck with a dreadful mother, and without many friends due to intense bullying, she's used to it. Erin is now independent, resourceful and outdoorsy, preferring to spend her time in nature than with many people.
Conor Paxton, a gorgeous game warden with a bevy of friends, has had a thing for Erin for ages. She's got a rocking body, a smart ass mouth and an innate sweetness about her that's intoxicating. She's also completely naive to the fact that he flirts with her every chance he can get. There's something that holds her back from completely embracing life and Conor longs to break down that door and show her the world. When she offers him a seat on a weekend camping trip with she and some of her students, he jumps at the chance to get close to her. Growing closer to her reveals what's eating away at her happiness and Conor sets his mind, and heart, on helping her slay her dragon.
I always know when I read a Stoker book, I'm going to see her champion a cause and I ❤ her for it!! In JFE, Susan Stoker tackles a subject that has been largely taboo for years and does so fearlessly! Reading this book was a bit of an emotional journey for me as I immediately connected and understood Erin and her struggles, as many women around the world will. The hope for us all is that one day we'll find our Conor, the almost too-good-to-be-true hero that sees past the standards of the world to the beauty we possess! Don't despair girls, I've seen it happen outside of romance novels!
Thank you Mrs. Stoker for sharing this book and your dream for a better, kinder, more accepting world with us!!
April 14, 2018
3.5 stars
While intially this started out slow for me, it did really pick up. I have always appreciated that Susan Stoker brings us such noble and brave heroes. Her heroines are a great mix of tough and damsel- never too OTT. I did feel some of the storyline was left hanging which was odd.
HERO~ Conor was a classic SS hero, which I love. He was a public servant. Brave, strong and a great guy. He was so patient with Erin. He didnt push her and gave her as much time as she needed to get use to his attention. I was totally in his corner.
HEROINE~ Erin- the poor girl had been through the ringer. She had fought the battle with severe obesity, and every day she continued to fight to over come her past. I understood her reluctance but after a while I wanted to shake her.
SEXUAL HISTORY~ Conor was not a virgin, but his past wasn't harped on. Erin was a 35 year old virgin. Now, before all of the peanut gallery starts in about the believability of such a unicorn, know that it happens. I know two people personally (one much older than 35) who have never been intimated wuth a man because of their weight/insecurities. It's a reality.
OM/OW DRAMA ~ None
STEAM Not an abundance of steam which was disappointing. Conor had the potential to be a scorcher. No sex until the end
VIOLENCE None of a sexual nature
SECONDARY CHARACTERS Great cast of former characters and future characters. TJ is up next and I'm reluctant about his story (I've never said that about a Susan Stoker book)
SAFETY Safe! Neither with others after they meet. That is one of the reasons that Susan Stoker is one of the very few authors that I pre order. I've come to trust the itegrity of her characters
ENDING~ No epilogue. Just a short skip a few weeks later. Was totally let down. I need more closure and look into their future for my couples
While intially this started out slow for me, it did really pick up. I have always appreciated that Susan Stoker brings us such noble and brave heroes. Her heroines are a great mix of tough and damsel- never too OTT. I did feel some of the storyline was left hanging which was odd.
HERO~ Conor was a classic SS hero, which I love. He was a public servant. Brave, strong and a great guy. He was so patient with Erin. He didnt push her and gave her as much time as she needed to get use to his attention. I was totally in his corner.
HEROINE~ Erin- the poor girl had been through the ringer. She had fought the battle with severe obesity, and every day she continued to fight to over come her past. I understood her reluctance but after a while I wanted to shake her.
SEXUAL HISTORY~ Conor was not a virgin, but his past wasn't harped on. Erin was a 35 year old virgin. Now, before all of the peanut gallery starts in about the believability of such a unicorn, know that it happens. I know two people personally (one much older than 35) who have never been intimated wuth a man because of their weight/insecurities. It's a reality.
OM/OW DRAMA ~ None
STEAM Not an abundance of steam which was disappointing. Conor had the potential to be a scorcher. No sex until the end
VIOLENCE None of a sexual nature
SECONDARY CHARACTERS Great cast of former characters and future characters. TJ is up next and I'm reluctant about his story (I've never said that about a Susan Stoker book)
SAFETY Safe! Neither with others after they meet. That is one of the reasons that Susan Stoker is one of the very few authors that I pre order. I've come to trust the itegrity of her characters
ENDING~ No epilogue. Just a short skip a few weeks later. Was totally let down. I need more closure and look into their future for my couples
November 1, 2017
***4.5 ‘Bright Eyes’ Stars***
Ahhhh. Whenever I dive into a Susan Stoker book I have a pretty good idea of what I’m in for: Engaging writing, well developed characters ~ who at times seem almost too good to be true, but still feel real and relatable, a romance that is realistic and swoon worthy with a little dash of mystery and suspense thrown in for good measure and Justice for Erin definitely had all of that. But this one went a little deeper and hit a chord that had me connecting with Erin in such a way that was equal parts soothing and frightening all the while wishing that there were more people like Conor in the world.
On the outside Erin looks like she has it all. She’s pretty, friendly and has a kind and compassionate heart, but on the inside things don’t necessarily match up. She endured a hellish childhood and though she fought through it all, issues still remain that she can’t seem to let go of. It was easy, scarily so, for me to connect and empathize with Erin. The issues she’s dealt with, the thoughts that circled around in her head are ones that I’m well acquainted with so I totally got why she was the way she was and I not admired her for getting to where she was when we first meet her, but loved getting to see her evolve even more thought out the book and come to terms with her demons.
I loved Conor, even though there were moments when he really did seem too good to be true. He’s a borderline workaholic, but only because he truly enjoys his job. He’s sweet, smexy and is quite upfront and honest about his feelings and though his patience borders on being saint like, he doesn’t just sit back and wait for things to come to him. When he decides on something, he goes after it with all he has.
Erin and Conor’s slow burn journey to their HEA was all kinds of sweet, with a good dose of smexy and filled with lots of heart. I really liked how open and honest they were with each other when it came to their feelings, there were no mind games or OTT angsty-ness going on and it was fun to watch them fall in love. And though this was a slow build romance that was more sweet than smexy, the smexy that did happen between them was HAWT! They faced quite a few bumps in the road and I liked how they dealt with them because it made them stronger individually and as a couple and I was really happy with where they were at in the end.
Justice for Erin was another great read that tackled some pretty heavy issues that we all have had some experience and presented them in an honest yet respectful manner. The suspense aspect of the story was an interesting one and I like how it all played out. I loved getting to catch up with all the characters that populate this world and though I really want Moose and Pen’s story right now, especially after what went on with them in this book, I’m looking forward to getting to know T.J. a lot more!
~ Copy provided by Rock Star PR Lit & voluntarily reviewed ~
Ahhhh. Whenever I dive into a Susan Stoker book I have a pretty good idea of what I’m in for: Engaging writing, well developed characters ~ who at times seem almost too good to be true, but still feel real and relatable, a romance that is realistic and swoon worthy with a little dash of mystery and suspense thrown in for good measure and Justice for Erin definitely had all of that. But this one went a little deeper and hit a chord that had me connecting with Erin in such a way that was equal parts soothing and frightening all the while wishing that there were more people like Conor in the world.
On the outside Erin looks like she has it all. She’s pretty, friendly and has a kind and compassionate heart, but on the inside things don’t necessarily match up. She endured a hellish childhood and though she fought through it all, issues still remain that she can’t seem to let go of. It was easy, scarily so, for me to connect and empathize with Erin. The issues she’s dealt with, the thoughts that circled around in her head are ones that I’m well acquainted with so I totally got why she was the way she was and I not admired her for getting to where she was when we first meet her, but loved getting to see her evolve even more thought out the book and come to terms with her demons.
I loved Conor, even though there were moments when he really did seem too good to be true. He’s a borderline workaholic, but only because he truly enjoys his job. He’s sweet, smexy and is quite upfront and honest about his feelings and though his patience borders on being saint like, he doesn’t just sit back and wait for things to come to him. When he decides on something, he goes after it with all he has.
Erin and Conor’s slow burn journey to their HEA was all kinds of sweet, with a good dose of smexy and filled with lots of heart. I really liked how open and honest they were with each other when it came to their feelings, there were no mind games or OTT angsty-ness going on and it was fun to watch them fall in love. And though this was a slow build romance that was more sweet than smexy, the smexy that did happen between them was HAWT! They faced quite a few bumps in the road and I liked how they dealt with them because it made them stronger individually and as a couple and I was really happy with where they were at in the end.
Justice for Erin was another great read that tackled some pretty heavy issues that we all have had some experience and presented them in an honest yet respectful manner. The suspense aspect of the story was an interesting one and I like how it all played out. I loved getting to catch up with all the characters that populate this world and though I really want Moose and Pen’s story right now, especially after what went on with them in this book, I’m looking forward to getting to know T.J. a lot more!
~ Copy provided by Rock Star PR Lit & voluntarily reviewed ~
November 15, 2017
Food for thought
Erin & Conor have that spark from day one that makes for a great read! The demons in Erin's past are heavy & still affect every aspect of her life today. Conor doesn't understand everything at first, but as he figures each piece out, his support and understanding draws Erin in. I love their honesty & banter!! And when she gets into trouble, her actions to stay one step ahead were great! Also love the connections hinted at & foreshadowed for future books! :)
Erin & Conor have that spark from day one that makes for a great read! The demons in Erin's past are heavy & still affect every aspect of her life today. Conor doesn't understand everything at first, but as he figures each piece out, his support and understanding draws Erin in. I love their honesty & banter!! And when she gets into trouble, her actions to stay one step ahead were great! Also love the connections hinted at & foreshadowed for future books! :)
October 29, 2017
4.5 stars
Erin was professionally secure as a teacher and part-time bartender, but after being bullied by her mother, she had deep body/food binging issues that hindered her personal life in an unhealthy way. I liked how Erin was willing to try and overcome an insanely difficult problem to achieve a healthier outlook on her personal life and loved Conor’s patience as he nurtured Erin out of her shell. Even better? Seeing how Erin balanced Conor out in ways he didn’t even realize he needed. And then there’s Conor. A straight-shooter, (I seriously love the no b.s. attitude Stoker’s heroes exude!) and his genuineness to encourage people, it was so easy to fall in love with him!
The romance was a steady build up through the book. Rather than flashy hot and heavy sex, Erin and Conor had the slow burning, melt-your-insides to-goo foreplay style, giving their romantic relationship a believable depth I could connect to.
When I pick up a Susan Stoker book I know I’m going to have 1) an intelligent, over-protective hero, 2) a heroine with a realistic dilemma/issue that’s understandable and/or relatable, and 3) a bit of suspense that gets the brain juices flowing and Justice For Erin did not disappoint! The outpouring of love and support for Erin and Conor from their tight knit group of friends, a deliciously steamy romance, and a very unexpected twist of suspense was well worth the loss of sleep!
The story was also a refreshingly blunt reminder to do what many of us were taught to do as children, yet sometimes fail to remember as adults. Be kind to one another. It doesn’t cost anything but a moment of time :)
Justice For Erin is book 9 in the Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes series and can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book which I received at no cost from the author.
Erin was professionally secure as a teacher and part-time bartender, but after being bullied by her mother, she had deep body/food binging issues that hindered her personal life in an unhealthy way. I liked how Erin was willing to try and overcome an insanely difficult problem to achieve a healthier outlook on her personal life and loved Conor’s patience as he nurtured Erin out of her shell. Even better? Seeing how Erin balanced Conor out in ways he didn’t even realize he needed. And then there’s Conor. A straight-shooter, (I seriously love the no b.s. attitude Stoker’s heroes exude!) and his genuineness to encourage people, it was so easy to fall in love with him!
The romance was a steady build up through the book. Rather than flashy hot and heavy sex, Erin and Conor had the slow burning, melt-your-insides to-goo foreplay style, giving their romantic relationship a believable depth I could connect to.
When I pick up a Susan Stoker book I know I’m going to have 1) an intelligent, over-protective hero, 2) a heroine with a realistic dilemma/issue that’s understandable and/or relatable, and 3) a bit of suspense that gets the brain juices flowing and Justice For Erin did not disappoint! The outpouring of love and support for Erin and Conor from their tight knit group of friends, a deliciously steamy romance, and a very unexpected twist of suspense was well worth the loss of sleep!
The story was also a refreshingly blunt reminder to do what many of us were taught to do as children, yet sometimes fail to remember as adults. Be kind to one another. It doesn’t cost anything but a moment of time :)
Justice For Erin is book 9 in the Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes series and can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book which I received at no cost from the author.
January 2, 2018
This story was very moving, I love Erin and her ability to grow and learn she is loved.
November 30, 2017
It's taken me a little over a week to review this book, not because I disliked the book, totally the opposite. It's taken me a while because this story has crawled up my heart and taken permanent residence. With that being said, if you have NOT read this series, do yourself a favor and read it. Susan Stoker writes about people who have struggles. She takes current, real life themes, dilemmas and turns them into fictional characters that can be you.. or me. Her books lets us real life readers know there IS a happy ending.
"Whatever you do, never make fun of someone because of how they look. Ever. You don’t know what’s going on inside his or her head. Most people are struggling with stuff you have no idea about. None. And you making fun of someone only shows how ignorant you are, it has nothing to do with them."
That quote right there, that's where I fell in love with Conor. Justice for Erin is about loving yourself through the eyes of others. It's about knowing you don't have to go about doing things alone, anymore. A story in which friends are the family you pick and will be there even when you don't ask them to be.
I've only started reading Susan Stokers books this year, and she has become an auto-buy, will devour the books in one sitting author. Her books are sexy, suspenseful, funny, and REAL. Thus far, this series is a kaleidoscope of heroines that I want in my life, in my circle. I highly recommend you jump on this train and grab this series.
"Whatever you do, never make fun of someone because of how they look. Ever. You don’t know what’s going on inside his or her head. Most people are struggling with stuff you have no idea about. None. And you making fun of someone only shows how ignorant you are, it has nothing to do with them."
That quote right there, that's where I fell in love with Conor. Justice for Erin is about loving yourself through the eyes of others. It's about knowing you don't have to go about doing things alone, anymore. A story in which friends are the family you pick and will be there even when you don't ask them to be.
I've only started reading Susan Stokers books this year, and she has become an auto-buy, will devour the books in one sitting author. Her books are sexy, suspenseful, funny, and REAL. Thus far, this series is a kaleidoscope of heroines that I want in my life, in my circle. I highly recommend you jump on this train and grab this series.
May 9, 2023
Such a courageous woman, so vulnerable but strong, she takes a chance and finally her life turns around. Conor is amazing, patient and understanding, so caring and giving the sort of guy any woman would be lucky to find. It starts as friendship but there's a definite attraction and as they get to know each other it grows. Inspiring story that has love and friendship a plenty and when danger finds Erin they all rally. Suspense and action, a treasured gift that helps save a life and romance, understanding and so much more all woven in with a twist or two. Characters to love and cherish their HEA as much as they do, Erin especially deserved it. Excellent story.
April 18, 2020
Bully me not
This book was great. I loved it. Susan has a way with addressing issues that brings a whole new life to her books. This dealt with weight and being bullied. The characters are strong and believable. The story takes you on the journey with Conor and Erin. Highly recommended..way to go Susan
This book was great. I loved it. Susan has a way with addressing issues that brings a whole new life to her books. This dealt with weight and being bullied. The characters are strong and believable. The story takes you on the journey with Conor and Erin. Highly recommended..way to go Susan
November 30, 2017
4.5 Stars!
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
Erin and Conor are destined to be together and soon become inseparable. On a romantic camping trip, things suddenly take a dark twist. Will fate be on Erin's side? Can Conor find her in time?
Another enjoyable and captivating read from Susan Stoker; one of my go to authors for an easy, and enjoyable read, to uplift my mood. Justice for Erin is no different; yet again Susan has managed to help lift my mood with one of her brilliant stories.
The connection and love that Erin and Conor share is beautiful. They were right for each other and perfect together. They were honest with each other, said exactly what they meant and didn't play silly games. It was hard not to love these two, they brought a ray of sunshine, wherever they went.
Conor stole my heart, time, and time, again. He was upfront about his feelings for Erin, he didn't think twice about how he felt and was determined to not only win her heart and prove his love for her, he was determined to show her how truly beautiful she was, both inside, and out.
Erin had a great sense of humour, she was strong, and independent. As her relationship with Conor developed, we began to see the fragile, and devastated girl she had buried away. Her strength to get through it all, is inspirational. She had been through so much and still found strength to fight.
Justice for Erin is full of suspenseful moments, ones that had me, trying to guess Susan's next move and some that had me holding my breath. There were odd moments in this story that had me cringing, however it didn’t take away from how brilliant this story is. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Erin and Conor’s story and look forward to reading more of Susan Stoker's books.
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
Erin and Conor are destined to be together and soon become inseparable. On a romantic camping trip, things suddenly take a dark twist. Will fate be on Erin's side? Can Conor find her in time?
Another enjoyable and captivating read from Susan Stoker; one of my go to authors for an easy, and enjoyable read, to uplift my mood. Justice for Erin is no different; yet again Susan has managed to help lift my mood with one of her brilliant stories.
The connection and love that Erin and Conor share is beautiful. They were right for each other and perfect together. They were honest with each other, said exactly what they meant and didn't play silly games. It was hard not to love these two, they brought a ray of sunshine, wherever they went.
Conor stole my heart, time, and time, again. He was upfront about his feelings for Erin, he didn't think twice about how he felt and was determined to not only win her heart and prove his love for her, he was determined to show her how truly beautiful she was, both inside, and out.
Erin had a great sense of humour, she was strong, and independent. As her relationship with Conor developed, we began to see the fragile, and devastated girl she had buried away. Her strength to get through it all, is inspirational. She had been through so much and still found strength to fight.
Justice for Erin is full of suspenseful moments, ones that had me, trying to guess Susan's next move and some that had me holding my breath. There were odd moments in this story that had me cringing, however it didn’t take away from how brilliant this story is. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Erin and Conor’s story and look forward to reading more of Susan Stoker's books.
December 18, 2017
This series is known for women that don't know how great they are and Erin is that to a T. When you learn her story you can't help but to feel sorry for her and want to be her friend. Connor was the perfect guy for her. I loved that Connor only saw Erin and when they finally started to talk about them as a couple he let her know he wanted her and only her. I liked that Connor picked up that Erin wasn't experienced with guys and went slow, yet still let Erin know he was interested in her.
Erin meeting Connor's family was eye opening for her. Sure there were things that pushed her buttons, but mostly it made her look at things in a different way, to realize that her issues didn't have to be, because food is love.
The drama at the end was beyond crazy! I did like how Erin thought out of the box to bring people to her, even if it was bad.
Erin meeting Connor's family was eye opening for her. Sure there were things that pushed her buttons, but mostly it made her look at things in a different way, to realize that her issues didn't have to be, because food is love.
The drama at the end was beyond crazy! I did like how Erin thought out of the box to bring people to her, even if it was bad.
March 21, 2020
This is another solid installment in Susan Stoker's Badge of Honor series. Game warden Conor and college professor/bartender Erin bond over their love of outdoor activities. Erin has a lot of issues surrounding food, since she used to be obese before her gastric bypass surgery, but has become a successful, athletic person. Why a college professor also needs to tend bar is a little odd, but I can go with it. Then, partway through the book, it takes a turn into Criminal Minds territory when Erin is kidnapped by someone who wants to hunt her (like in the CM episode "Open Season") and she has to take drastic measures to get away.
One of Stoker's weaknesses is blending the romance and action aspects of the books. Sometimes she gets it right, sometimes the action feels like an afterthought, and in this book it almost does. But the characters are interesting and likable, and you'll be rooting for them in the end.
One of Stoker's weaknesses is blending the romance and action aspects of the books. Sometimes she gets it right, sometimes the action feels like an afterthought, and in this book it almost does. But the characters are interesting and likable, and you'll be rooting for them in the end.
November 7, 2019
Erin finds a man of Honor❤️
Erin has had a difficult life. She’s had to put up with a woman who doesn’t deserve the title of mother, an eating disorder to the point of struggling with obesity and food and a father who disappeared when she was younger😢
Conor since coming to the Sloppy Cow, a new bar, he’s been attracted to the bartender Erin. But for some reason she doesn’t seem to appear to understand that he’s flirting with her. When she asks him to accompany her on a trip with some students, he instantly accepts, knowing this might be the only way to get to know her better❣️
This story was a good one as it approached sensitive subjects with compassion and showed both sides of the same coin essentially, with different perspectives for Erin and Conor which I think was great😁 Looking forward to TJ’s story next😍
Erin has had a difficult life. She’s had to put up with a woman who doesn’t deserve the title of mother, an eating disorder to the point of struggling with obesity and food and a father who disappeared when she was younger😢
Conor since coming to the Sloppy Cow, a new bar, he’s been attracted to the bartender Erin. But for some reason she doesn’t seem to appear to understand that he’s flirting with her. When she asks him to accompany her on a trip with some students, he instantly accepts, knowing this might be the only way to get to know her better❣️
This story was a good one as it approached sensitive subjects with compassion and showed both sides of the same coin essentially, with different perspectives for Erin and Conor which I think was great😁 Looking forward to TJ’s story next😍
November 16, 2017
I love, Love, LOVE this book! Erin and Conor are phenomenal together. Erin's struggles with her self respect and body issues ring oh so true. As someone who has struggled with my own weight issues and self esteem this book brought powerful emotions to the forefront. I cried more than once.
The writing is spectacular, the plot is amazing and I love getting to catch up with the all the couples from the previous books in the series as well as getting teased about what's coming up.
Susan Stoker continues to be a one-click author for me. I encourage everyone to read her books. I absolutely adored her note at the beginning of this book. "Just be nice.", definitely words to live by.
The writing is spectacular, the plot is amazing and I love getting to catch up with the all the couples from the previous books in the series as well as getting teased about what's coming up.
Susan Stoker continues to be a one-click author for me. I encourage everyone to read her books. I absolutely adored her note at the beginning of this book. "Just be nice.", definitely words to live by.
November 17, 2017
I adore this series!
This series just gets better and better! I knew I was going to love Justice for Erin since the teaser at the end of the last book and I was not disappointed. Erin is a brave woman who has overcome many obstacles who we can all relate to in some way or another but who still has a sense of naivety about her and Connor is a Texas Hero Alpha male but also incredibly sensitive and understanding which is what made him so perfect for Erin in this book. Susan Stoker at her best!
This series just gets better and better! I knew I was going to love Justice for Erin since the teaser at the end of the last book and I was not disappointed. Erin is a brave woman who has overcome many obstacles who we can all relate to in some way or another but who still has a sense of naivety about her and Connor is a Texas Hero Alpha male but also incredibly sensitive and understanding which is what made him so perfect for Erin in this book. Susan Stoker at her best!
November 14, 2017
I have to say after reading everything Susan Stoker has written I now hang out for new release day and Justice for Erin was so worth the wait, seriously amazing read from beginning to end.
I have to say I identified with Erin in so many ways that this story was hard to read but at the same time I couldn't put it down because it was written so well I just had to keep reading and boy was that ending worth it, Erin and Connor are a magical couple and their story was perfectly written.
I have to say I identified with Erin in so many ways that this story was hard to read but at the same time I couldn't put it down because it was written so well I just had to keep reading and boy was that ending worth it, Erin and Connor are a magical couple and their story was perfectly written.
October 26, 2017
I volunteered to read and review an advanced readers copy.
This is by far one of the most wonderful stories I've ever read .
(may need tissue ). this story sends a powerful message . So Emotional .
I read it straight thru till I finished.
Please Read you will not be disappointed .A master piece from Susan Stoker.I Highly recommend reading this story.
This is by far one of the most wonderful stories I've ever read .
(may need tissue ). this story sends a powerful message . So Emotional .
I read it straight thru till I finished.
Please Read you will not be disappointed .A master piece from Susan Stoker.I Highly recommend reading this story.
November 17, 2017
I really enjoyed watching Erin and Connor's relationship grow and how he was compassionate and observant of Erin's needs and fought her demons. Erin's vulnerability and strength (and issues) made me both identify with her on so many levels, and admire her in others.
I'm glad I got to experience the truth and encouragements and reminders buried in the story.
I'm glad I got to experience the truth and encouragements and reminders buried in the story.
April 8, 2021
I liked Erin’s outdoorsy persona. Her struggles with food felt very authentic and shed an empathetic light on morbid obesity, weight loss procedures and recovery. Conor seems a good match, both with his love of the outdoors and As usual for a Stoker novel, the friendship and romance were good. The suspense part here wasn’t as top notch, but it was interesting. But the real interest for me was in thinking out our relationships with food. I read the ebook. 3.5/5
November 20, 2017
I loved Erin + Conor.
Erin had low self esteem.
She did not see herself in a good way, even though she was beautiful inside out.
Conor feel in love w/ Erin for who she was, and not for the way she looked.
You can go wrong w/ a Susan Stoker book
It was such a sweet romance between those two.
I loved the storytelling + the characters.
Erin had low self esteem.
She did not see herself in a good way, even though she was beautiful inside out.
Conor feel in love w/ Erin for who she was, and not for the way she looked.
You can go wrong w/ a Susan Stoker book
It was such a sweet romance between those two.
I loved the storytelling + the characters.
November 29, 2021
Loved this heroine. She felt real and relatable, and yet she conquered her demons. Liked the plot climax when she went missing. The hero is less alpha than you might want for romantic suspense, but he was exactly the man she needed to help deal with her emotional trauma and self-esteem issues.
September 4, 2023
I felt for Erin, for sure. Eating disorders, self-esteem, and how we see ourselves is super important. I like that Connor made her feel safe to eat and be okay with eating and maybe gaining a pound BUT she shouldn't need a man and his BIG family to make her feel okay about herself. I also cannot ignore the ridiculous story line thrown in there. Penelope gets a donkey out of it though.
November 30, 2017
5 Second look at Justice for Erin by Susan Stoker
-Erin invited Conor to a camping trip over Thanksgiving. They grow closer together. He adores her.
-They date and work through Erin’s body image concerns
-Erin disappears during a camping trip and Conor has to use all his friends to find the woman he loves.
My Take on the Book :
Sweet. All of Susan Stoker’s book are perfect episodes of sweet.
My Review of Justice for Erin by Susan Stoker
Let's Talk About the Girl...
Erin Gardner is not who she appears to be. She has scars both emotional and physical. A child from a broken home where her mother’s expectations and abuse have marked her. Her father abandoned her at eight, leaving her to the hands of her overbearing, mean, heartless mother. Erin didn’t know how to deal with these feelings as a small girl so she turned to food. Food never abandoned her. No one understands what she has gone through to become the woman has become. She refuses to let anyone see her struggle. She is sensitive, caring, and empathetic to others around her. She also has an inner strength to keep going through everything that has happened to her.
Who doesn’t struggle with food? I do. I can relate to Erin’s struggle for acceptance from herself and others. I have alot of problems accepting myself and loving who I have become. She changes alot throughout the book and it’s great to see.
Let's Talk About the Guy...
Conor Paxton is a simple guy. He likes simple things: friends, family, camping and hunting. He is ok with who he is.
Let's Talk about the Story...
How we have all struggled with these feelings. It may not be about the scale, but we all know the pain of not measuring up. Erin is quiet and shy and doesn’t really have any close friends. She has struggled her whole life with food. It’s the only thing that has ever brought her comfort after her loving father abandoned her to live her life with her hard, uncaring, unfeeling mother. It has taken her most of her adult life to come to the fragile understanding she has between herself and food. It’s not an easy life, but it is a lonely, sad, cold one. Every year she volunteers to take some of her college students on a canoe trip and she invites Conor to go with her.
Conor is a nice guy. He is always funny or kind to her when he comes into her bartending second job. She can’t see that Conor adores Erin. He could never find an in with her.
But when he tried to flirt with her, tried to let her know he wanted to get to know her better, she acted as if no one had ever told her how pretty she was before.
On the trip he realized that:
Conor knows he wants Erin after that trip. They come home and start dating. Everything progresses slowly. He know that she inexperienced and extremely self-conscious about her body. He completely understands. Erin slow shows more and more of herself, or she thinks she does until she goes home with him for Christmas dinner.
After Christmas things really progress. They grow closer together through texts and dinners and decide to go on a camping trip in the early spring. They are go separately and meet up together. But when Conor arrives hours after Erin, she is no where to be found. He knows something is wrong, he feels it. He calls his friends to help him find the woman he has grown to love.
-Erin invited Conor to a camping trip over Thanksgiving. They grow closer together. He adores her.
-They date and work through Erin’s body image concerns
-Erin disappears during a camping trip and Conor has to use all his friends to find the woman he loves.
My Take on the Book :
Sweet. All of Susan Stoker’s book are perfect episodes of sweet.
My Review of Justice for Erin by Susan Stoker
Let's Talk About the Girl...
Erin Gardner is not who she appears to be. She has scars both emotional and physical. A child from a broken home where her mother’s expectations and abuse have marked her. Her father abandoned her at eight, leaving her to the hands of her overbearing, mean, heartless mother. Erin didn’t know how to deal with these feelings as a small girl so she turned to food. Food never abandoned her. No one understands what she has gone through to become the woman has become. She refuses to let anyone see her struggle. She is sensitive, caring, and empathetic to others around her. She also has an inner strength to keep going through everything that has happened to her.
Who doesn’t struggle with food? I do. I can relate to Erin’s struggle for acceptance from herself and others. I have alot of problems accepting myself and loving who I have become. She changes alot throughout the book and it’s great to see.
Let's Talk About the Guy...
Conor Paxton is a simple guy. He likes simple things: friends, family, camping and hunting. He is ok with who he is.
Let's Talk about the Story...
“All I want, all I’ve ever wanted, was to be loved for who I am. And who I am is not a number on a scale.”
How we have all struggled with these feelings. It may not be about the scale, but we all know the pain of not measuring up. Erin is quiet and shy and doesn’t really have any close friends. She has struggled her whole life with food. It’s the only thing that has ever brought her comfort after her loving father abandoned her to live her life with her hard, uncaring, unfeeling mother. It has taken her most of her adult life to come to the fragile understanding she has between herself and food. It’s not an easy life, but it is a lonely, sad, cold one. Every year she volunteers to take some of her college students on a canoe trip and she invites Conor to go with her.
Conor is a nice guy. He is always funny or kind to her when he comes into her bartending second job. She can’t see that Conor adores Erin. He could never find an in with her.
But when he tried to flirt with her, tried to let her know he wanted to get to know her better, she acted as if no one had ever told her how pretty she was before.
On the trip he realized that:
“The more he paid attention, the more he realized when it came to male-female interaction, she was as innocent as a teenager just entering the dating fray. And that made him feel protective toward her.”
Conor knows he wants Erin after that trip. They come home and start dating. Everything progresses slowly. He know that she inexperienced and extremely self-conscious about her body. He completely understands. Erin slow shows more and more of herself, or she thinks she does until she goes home with him for Christmas dinner.
After Christmas things really progress. They grow closer together through texts and dinners and decide to go on a camping trip in the early spring. They are go separately and meet up together. But when Conor arrives hours after Erin, she is no where to be found. He knows something is wrong, he feels it. He calls his friends to help him find the woman he has grown to love.
February 1, 2022
Please bear with me, but all know that if I could give this book more then a 5 star rating I would give it the sky. This is a story that can and will touch many a woman or men who have gone or are going through the same problems or issues that Erin does in this story. And my sincere thanks to Susan Stoker for writting this story and doing it so well.
Erin Gardner is a part time bartender who friendly to everyone who comes to her bar, including the local law enforcement and firefighters bellies up to her bar, including the local law enforcement and firefighters who keep her city safe. This is also where Conor Paxton enters her life and changes it all for her.
Her entire life has been a struggle that began when her mother told her that her Father left one night and was never coming back, to cope with all that was going on she turned to food for solace and happiness. Years later after leaving home she changed all if that, but it has not been easy.
Conor has fallen for the Erin and in more ways that she can even imagine, he has not judged her nor does he see her as she sees herself, he has come to love her for what she is inside and out.
Both love the outdoors and do spend time enjoying their outings and she does also, little by little Erin comes to realize that Conor does love her for who she is and what she has become.
Just when the couple thinks they’re on their way to a happily ever after, Erin finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. But there’s no way she’ll just lay down and die. She’s woman enough to save herself—and lead her man to her when she’s done.
Susan Stoker thank you so much for this wonderful and warm story.
Erin Gardner is a part time bartender who friendly to everyone who comes to her bar, including the local law enforcement and firefighters bellies up to her bar, including the local law enforcement and firefighters who keep her city safe. This is also where Conor Paxton enters her life and changes it all for her.
Her entire life has been a struggle that began when her mother told her that her Father left one night and was never coming back, to cope with all that was going on she turned to food for solace and happiness. Years later after leaving home she changed all if that, but it has not been easy.
Conor has fallen for the Erin and in more ways that she can even imagine, he has not judged her nor does he see her as she sees herself, he has come to love her for what she is inside and out.
Both love the outdoors and do spend time enjoying their outings and she does also, little by little Erin comes to realize that Conor does love her for who she is and what she has become.
Just when the couple thinks they’re on their way to a happily ever after, Erin finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. But there’s no way she’ll just lay down and die. She’s woman enough to save herself—and lead her man to her when she’s done.
Susan Stoker thank you so much for this wonderful and warm story.
June 5, 2025
As a character,Erin Gardner really resonated with me. I walked her same journey both before and after her surgery. I loved how Conor Paxton assured, bolstered and supported her even before he learned he knew about her struggles with weight. The tenderness and gentleness he used with her was heartwarming. Through him, Erin finally get a sense of belonging and a group of friends who will be there for her, no questions asked. Something she's never had before but somthing she will definitely need when danger comes calling.
September 15, 2021
Susan, Susan, Susan. How the hell did you get that a banana was high in protein? Geez woman - you’re better than this!
January 4, 2025
4.5 stars
Erin and Conor are adorable. The way he loves her and shows her that love until she believes it herself is sweet.
Erin and Conor are adorable. The way he loves her and shows her that love until she believes it herself is sweet.
November 18, 2017
3.75 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 14, 2017
Part-time bartender Erin Gardner is friendly to everyone who bellies up to her bar, including the local law enforcement and firefighters who keep her city safe. That’s where she meets game warden Conor Paxton, a regular who she asks to join a canoeing trip she’s leading for her university day job. When the trip leads to something more, Erin couldn’t be happier.
Conor adores Erin, more than enough to help her continue to get over lingering self-esteem issues from her childhood. He’s thrilled he’s found someone who enjoys spending time in nature as much as he does.
Just when the couple thinks they’re on their way to a happily ever after, Erin finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. But there’s no way she’ll just lay down and die. She’s woman enough to save herself—and lead her man to her when she’s done.
** Justice for Erin is the 9th book in the Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliff-hanger endings.
••••••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75s tars--JUSTICE FOR ERIN is the ninth instalment in Susan Stoker’s contemporary, adult BADGE OF HONOR: TEXAS HEROES romantic suspense series. This is thirty five year old Texas game warden Conor Paxton, and university kinesiology professor/part time bar tender Erin Gardner’s story line. JUSTICE FOR ERIN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Conor and Erin) JUSTICE FOR ERIN focuses on the slow building relationship between Texas game warden Conor Paxton, and university professor Erin Gardner. Conor couldn’t believe it when the woman who has starred in all of his fantasies extends an invitation for a weekend canoe trip-a trip our heroine is leading as part of her university day job. Impressed with Erin’s knowledge of canoeing, camping and white water rafting Conor believes he has found the woman that calls to his heart but a woman who also has issues of low self esteem including those of abandonment and negative physical appearance. What ensues is the building romance and love between Conor and Erin, and the potential fall out when our heroine is targeted, on a camping trip, by an unknown source.
Erin Gardner is a thirty five year old virgin who has struggled with weight problems most of her life. Abandoned by her father, and emotionally abused by her mother, Erin’s lack of confidence and problems with body dysmorphia is the major theme running throughout the current story line. Conor Paxton is the personification of perfection and patience as it pertains to his growing love and relationship with our story line heroine- a patience that is required to break down the walls of innocence and self-deprecation that Erin uses to protect her mind and her heart from further breakdown and damage.
The relationship between Conor and Erin is very slow to build as Conor takes his time with the seduction of our story line heroine. Having met Erin at The Sloppy Cow where she works part time as a bartender, Conor’s immediate attraction is visceral and intense. Knowing the demons from her past are in a constant state of flux and revelation, Conor refuses to push Erin beyond that which he believes she is capable of doing. The $ex scenes are intimate, educational and passionate (without the use of sexually graphic language and text) as Conor ‘guides’ Erin towards their happily ever after.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including several of the previous story line couples, Conor’s parents Pauline and John Paxton, his sisters Karen and Mary, and their significant others, as well as a number of university students and bar patrons who come in and out of our couple’s lives. The requisite evil is sick and twisted but in the end gets what he so righteously deserves.
JUSTICE FOR ERIN is an emotional story of romance, friendship and love. As I have said before, all of Susan Stoker’s heroines have some issues that prevent the character from grabbing life by the horns and enjoying the ride, and Erin Gardner is no different, in fact, many readers will see themselves in our story line heroine-a woman who struggles with her weight and food, deep emotional and physical scars, and a lack of confidence in both her appearance and ability to love and be loved. The premise is captivating; the romance is sweet but I did struggled with our hero’s ‘good guy persona’ – everything was about pleasing Erin and taking his time with no regard for his own personal satisfaction-ever –the believeability factor was questionable but sweet.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 14, 2017
Part-time bartender Erin Gardner is friendly to everyone who bellies up to her bar, including the local law enforcement and firefighters who keep her city safe. That’s where she meets game warden Conor Paxton, a regular who she asks to join a canoeing trip she’s leading for her university day job. When the trip leads to something more, Erin couldn’t be happier.
Conor adores Erin, more than enough to help her continue to get over lingering self-esteem issues from her childhood. He’s thrilled he’s found someone who enjoys spending time in nature as much as he does.
Just when the couple thinks they’re on their way to a happily ever after, Erin finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. But there’s no way she’ll just lay down and die. She’s woman enough to save herself—and lead her man to her when she’s done.
** Justice for Erin is the 9th book in the Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliff-hanger endings.
••••••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75s tars--JUSTICE FOR ERIN is the ninth instalment in Susan Stoker’s contemporary, adult BADGE OF HONOR: TEXAS HEROES romantic suspense series. This is thirty five year old Texas game warden Conor Paxton, and university kinesiology professor/part time bar tender Erin Gardner’s story line. JUSTICE FOR ERIN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Conor and Erin) JUSTICE FOR ERIN focuses on the slow building relationship between Texas game warden Conor Paxton, and university professor Erin Gardner. Conor couldn’t believe it when the woman who has starred in all of his fantasies extends an invitation for a weekend canoe trip-a trip our heroine is leading as part of her university day job. Impressed with Erin’s knowledge of canoeing, camping and white water rafting Conor believes he has found the woman that calls to his heart but a woman who also has issues of low self esteem including those of abandonment and negative physical appearance. What ensues is the building romance and love between Conor and Erin, and the potential fall out when our heroine is targeted, on a camping trip, by an unknown source.
Erin Gardner is a thirty five year old virgin who has struggled with weight problems most of her life. Abandoned by her father, and emotionally abused by her mother, Erin’s lack of confidence and problems with body dysmorphia is the major theme running throughout the current story line. Conor Paxton is the personification of perfection and patience as it pertains to his growing love and relationship with our story line heroine- a patience that is required to break down the walls of innocence and self-deprecation that Erin uses to protect her mind and her heart from further breakdown and damage.
The relationship between Conor and Erin is very slow to build as Conor takes his time with the seduction of our story line heroine. Having met Erin at The Sloppy Cow where she works part time as a bartender, Conor’s immediate attraction is visceral and intense. Knowing the demons from her past are in a constant state of flux and revelation, Conor refuses to push Erin beyond that which he believes she is capable of doing. The $ex scenes are intimate, educational and passionate (without the use of sexually graphic language and text) as Conor ‘guides’ Erin towards their happily ever after.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including several of the previous story line couples, Conor’s parents Pauline and John Paxton, his sisters Karen and Mary, and their significant others, as well as a number of university students and bar patrons who come in and out of our couple’s lives. The requisite evil is sick and twisted but in the end gets what he so righteously deserves.
JUSTICE FOR ERIN is an emotional story of romance, friendship and love. As I have said before, all of Susan Stoker’s heroines have some issues that prevent the character from grabbing life by the horns and enjoying the ride, and Erin Gardner is no different, in fact, many readers will see themselves in our story line heroine-a woman who struggles with her weight and food, deep emotional and physical scars, and a lack of confidence in both her appearance and ability to love and be loved. The premise is captivating; the romance is sweet but I did struggled with our hero’s ‘good guy persona’ – everything was about pleasing Erin and taking his time with no regard for his own personal satisfaction-ever –the believeability factor was questionable but sweet.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
March 2, 2024
<><>
Story Overview
<><>
The book blurb explains it well.
<><> Characters <><>
Hero: Conor Paxton; Age: 35; Occupation: Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Warden
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: close with his family, observant, a member of the scout team that assisted in critical incidents, only 25 scout members in the entire state of Texas, quiet, focused, well respected, athletic, graceful, loves his job, has been a game warden for almost 15 years, was shot once, workaholic, thoughtful, thinks before he acts,
Heroine: Erin Gardner; Age: 35: Occupation: bartender at the Sloppy Cow and teaches Kinesiology at the university
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: chaperones college kids on outdoor trips, once weighed over 400 pounds, food has always been her coping mechanism, fired from being a gym teacher because of her weight, had gastric bypass surgery 10 years ago, extremely hypersensitive about what she eats, extremely insecure about many things including the scars on her body from multiple surgeries required after weight loss, feels inadequate, hated and ridiculed by her mother, low self esteem, unsure, vulnerable, generous, intuitive, knows how to diffuse situations that can get out of control, compassionate, likes to jog, father disappeared when she was eight, doesn’t have a lot of friends, not very social, has never really felt good about herself
<><> A Few Thoughts <><>
^^ ~ Conor’s overuse of “bright eyes” was extremely annoying.
^^ ~ I thought there would be some resolution to situation with Erin’s dad, but nope. I would have liked to see the culprit get what was coming to them
^^ ~ Penelope and her donkey - awww 🥰
^^ ~ the kidnapping felt like a bit of a left turn, but I guess it added the drama that was a bit missing
^^ ~ the intentional starting of a forest fire - I wasn’t on board with that. No consequences from that action.
^^ ~ Erin has an eating disorder. Her extreme reaction to food doesn’t really feel like she has addressed it. It felt unhealthy and that would have been a better angle to take the book rather than an out of the blue crazy man showing up out of nowhere. (In my opinion).
<><> The Basics <><>
- Content Warning: kidnapping, eating disorder (I added this as a warning in case someone deals with this and would find it a trigger to read about)
- Setting: San Antonio, Texas
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: I think it would be helpful to read the series in order. There are characters from other books that make an appearance.
- POV: Dual POV
- Hero likable? Yes
- heroine likable? Yes
- h virgin? Yes
- First time they kiss: 19%
- First time they sleep together: 43%
- Safe sex? No condoms used
- First time they say I Love You: 95%
- steamy? Not overly steamy
- Chemistry? they made a good couple
- OW/OM drama? No
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? No
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? At 44% Erin tells Conor about her obesity issues
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? Not really. Conor was a good hero but I didn’t really have any swoony moments
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? Three weeks later
- Recommend? Yes
<><> Quotes <><>
“Sometimes in order to deal with the shit eating you alive, it has to be brought to light and banished once and for all.”
“Scars are tattoos with better stories.”
“No matter where they were stationed, volunteer or paid, firefighters were an honorable bunch.”
The book blurb explains it well.
<><> Characters <><>
Hero: Conor Paxton; Age: 35; Occupation: Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Warden
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: close with his family, observant, a member of the scout team that assisted in critical incidents, only 25 scout members in the entire state of Texas, quiet, focused, well respected, athletic, graceful, loves his job, has been a game warden for almost 15 years, was shot once, workaholic, thoughtful, thinks before he acts,
Heroine: Erin Gardner; Age: 35: Occupation: bartender at the Sloppy Cow and teaches Kinesiology at the university
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: chaperones college kids on outdoor trips, once weighed over 400 pounds, food has always been her coping mechanism, fired from being a gym teacher because of her weight, had gastric bypass surgery 10 years ago, extremely hypersensitive about what she eats, extremely insecure about many things including the scars on her body from multiple surgeries required after weight loss, feels inadequate, hated and ridiculed by her mother, low self esteem, unsure, vulnerable, generous, intuitive, knows how to diffuse situations that can get out of control, compassionate, likes to jog, father disappeared when she was eight, doesn’t have a lot of friends, not very social, has never really felt good about herself
<><> A Few Thoughts <><>
^^ ~ Conor’s overuse of “bright eyes” was extremely annoying.
^^ ~ I thought there would be some resolution to situation with Erin’s dad, but nope. I would have liked to see the culprit get what was coming to them
^^ ~ Penelope and her donkey - awww 🥰
^^ ~ the kidnapping felt like a bit of a left turn, but I guess it added the drama that was a bit missing
^^ ~ the intentional starting of a forest fire - I wasn’t on board with that. No consequences from that action.
^^ ~ Erin has an eating disorder. Her extreme reaction to food doesn’t really feel like she has addressed it. It felt unhealthy and that would have been a better angle to take the book rather than an out of the blue crazy man showing up out of nowhere. (In my opinion).
<><> The Basics <><>
- Content Warning: kidnapping, eating disorder (I added this as a warning in case someone deals with this and would find it a trigger to read about)
- Setting: San Antonio, Texas
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: I think it would be helpful to read the series in order. There are characters from other books that make an appearance.
- POV: Dual POV
- Hero likable? Yes
- heroine likable? Yes
- h virgin? Yes
- First time they kiss: 19%
- First time they sleep together: 43%
- Safe sex? No condoms used
- First time they say I Love You: 95%
- steamy? Not overly steamy
- Chemistry? they made a good couple
- OW/OM drama? No
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? No
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? At 44% Erin tells Conor about her obesity issues
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? Not really. Conor was a good hero but I didn’t really have any swoony moments
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? Three weeks later
- Recommend? Yes
<><> Quotes <><>
“Sometimes in order to deal with the shit eating you alive, it has to be brought to light and banished once and for all.”
“Scars are tattoos with better stories.”
“No matter where they were stationed, volunteer or paid, firefighters were an honorable bunch.”
November 15, 2017
Yet again Susan Stoker creates a heroine that truly is a heroine. She saves herself as far as she can in so many ways it's astounding. Erin is inspiring and still so vulnerable and damaged. Conor is hot and so compassionate that he's the perfect man to bring Erin out from hiding. Such a perfect MC pairing.
I love that Erin is very real. She's troubled and dealing with the physical and emotional toll her past has inflicted on her. With a mother who wishes her only ill and no father figure in her life she found a way to cope with all of that. Her way of coping left scars of many types and isn't so different from ways that we as mere humans choose to deal with various stressors in our own lives. Despite having such a giant issue holding her back from accepting everything that Conor is offering, she's honest, fun, and eager to learn and grow with him. She might be holding part of herself back but she's honest with him that something is there.
Conor can see that there's something keeping her from being all-in in their relationship but he's patient, kind, understanding, and very observant. So much so that he can make some close guesses as to what holds her back. He's not willing to give up or allow distance to grow between them, though, and for that I am so proud. There is undeniable sexual chemistry there and he's upfront about what he desires from her but doesn't add any pressure to it by giving her all the time in the world to accept them for all they could be before hoping she opens herself to him fully. That love and patience is what really wins me over. So many alpha males run in and push to solve all the problems that face their women but for him to show restraint at the same time as easing her out from underneath the pressure that weighs her down is what makes him such a good man. His family is perfect and opens the door to them finally finding Erin's courage to confess everything.
Just when things are making their way to perfection and openness in every way something comes in and could possibly ruin everything...forever. Erin is made of some seriously strong stuff, though, and she uses her brain and her body to survive and save herself. If only it weren't for those ants... Conor gets to see all the strength she possesses and finds himself truly humbled by her capability, fortitude, and sheer will to not just survive, but to rise above all that has happened to her.
There are parts that are a little over the top when describing heroism, strength, and praise for overcoming difficulties. Not that it doesn't need to be said and it probably needs to be known a hundred times over because sometimes you just can't hear the words enough, but as a reader I found it a little repetitive and, as stated before, over the top. I enjoyed the sentiments quite a lot, I just think it could have been a little more succinct.
Overall, this was a really great story with characters that were not only ideal for one another, but displayed character traits worth admiring and emulating. Susan Stoker wrote wonderful human beings who were so very real and totally deserved the HEA she wrote for them.
Read and willingly reviewed this ARC for the author.
I love that Erin is very real. She's troubled and dealing with the physical and emotional toll her past has inflicted on her. With a mother who wishes her only ill and no father figure in her life she found a way to cope with all of that. Her way of coping left scars of many types and isn't so different from ways that we as mere humans choose to deal with various stressors in our own lives. Despite having such a giant issue holding her back from accepting everything that Conor is offering, she's honest, fun, and eager to learn and grow with him. She might be holding part of herself back but she's honest with him that something is there.
Conor can see that there's something keeping her from being all-in in their relationship but he's patient, kind, understanding, and very observant. So much so that he can make some close guesses as to what holds her back. He's not willing to give up or allow distance to grow between them, though, and for that I am so proud. There is undeniable sexual chemistry there and he's upfront about what he desires from her but doesn't add any pressure to it by giving her all the time in the world to accept them for all they could be before hoping she opens herself to him fully. That love and patience is what really wins me over. So many alpha males run in and push to solve all the problems that face their women but for him to show restraint at the same time as easing her out from underneath the pressure that weighs her down is what makes him such a good man. His family is perfect and opens the door to them finally finding Erin's courage to confess everything.
Just when things are making their way to perfection and openness in every way something comes in and could possibly ruin everything...forever. Erin is made of some seriously strong stuff, though, and she uses her brain and her body to survive and save herself. If only it weren't for those ants... Conor gets to see all the strength she possesses and finds himself truly humbled by her capability, fortitude, and sheer will to not just survive, but to rise above all that has happened to her.
There are parts that are a little over the top when describing heroism, strength, and praise for overcoming difficulties. Not that it doesn't need to be said and it probably needs to be known a hundred times over because sometimes you just can't hear the words enough, but as a reader I found it a little repetitive and, as stated before, over the top. I enjoyed the sentiments quite a lot, I just think it could have been a little more succinct.
Overall, this was a really great story with characters that were not only ideal for one another, but displayed character traits worth admiring and emulating. Susan Stoker wrote wonderful human beings who were so very real and totally deserved the HEA she wrote for them.
Read and willingly reviewed this ARC for the author.
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