A Family of His Own

Stories of Us #3

by Rheland Richmond

Xavier

Former Navy SEAL Xavier Thierry knows he’s good at his job… protect the client. Do the job but never get too close—that’s his motto.

When the friend he owes for saving his life asks for a favor, the answer is yes—no questions asked. But babysitting some pampered brat is nowhere on his to-do list.

That is, until he first lays eyes on him, and he’s nothing like Xav expected.

He wasn’t sure when this man stopped being a job, but the rules blur once Cris ends up in his arms. How can Xavier let him go when he’s the only one who chases away the darkness?

Cris

Cris Whitcomb thought he finally found his happily ever after… But the fairytale soon became a nightmare, one that left him with only one choice—to push away those he loves to protect them.

Only his family refuses to be pushed away. Their solution? Call in someone who can be trusted to protect him.

What happens when the best hope for his future walks in on the worst day of his life? Maybe sometimes you have to go through the bad to get the best...

One who knows the pain of loneliness, another haunted by memories he can’t seem to outrun... Maybe they are exactly what each other needs…

TRIGGER WARNING: This book contains scenes of domestic violence in flashbacks.

Genres: M M Romance, Contemporary, Military Fiction, Romance

399 pages, ebook

First published July 27, 2019

About the author

Writes Omegaverse as Skye R. Richmond.

Rheland is the ultimate bookworm, TV enthusiast, popcorn and ice cream connoisseur (Sweet and Salt is the best), and lover of all things cute and girly! From a young age, Rheland has been entranced by the magic of storytelling, diving headfirst into worlds of romance (before she was allowed to), and mysteries.

When she's not reading the latest romance novel or binge-watching her favorite TV shows (no horror, please!), you can find her writing stories of found families and forevers for her men.

Rheland is a hopeless romantic through and through with dreams of happily ever afters and swoon-worthy moments.

Rheland invites you to join her on a journey of laughter, love, and happily ever afters for her characters. So cozy up with a mug of cocoa or a glass of wine and prepare to fall head over heels for Rheland's men.

Rheland would love to hear from her readers and learn more about you. So if you get a chance... please get in touch.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkyeRRichmond/
Twitter: @RhelandRichmond
Instagram: @rhelandrichmondmm
Newsletter: https://www.rhelandrichmond.com/newsl...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rhela...

Reviews

[Elsa Bravante · Rating 2 out of 5]

Debo ser muy rara... No me he creído nada y hay momentos de la trama que me han parecido francamente ridículos. Y no voy a empezar a hablar de ese enamoramiento instantáneo, ese compromiso de por vida que se toma tras minutos de conocer a alguien... Por favor...

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so glad to be reading Cris' book.
I was drawn right into his story and his terible situation.
Xavier is a friend of a friend and tasked with keeping Cris safe. It's clear right away that his services are needed.
Poor Cris has had a really tough time for the past year. His now ex boyfriend is a real piece of work. He is out to hurt Cris and Xavier will do everything in his power to protect him.
I loved both of these men right from the beginning.
The whole family vibe of this story was sweet. Blood family and made.
A great story of support, trust and love with plenty going on to keep you engaged.

[Kendra T · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really feeling for Cris during the last book and wanted to know his story. This definitely met my expectations. Cris was a quiet and lonely guy who found himself caught in the clutches of an abusive jerk. After much prodding from his family, who finally figured out what was going on, Xavier came on board to help protect Cris. They were attracted to each other, but Xavier didn't want to act on it because he was working as Cris' bodyguard, and Cris didn't act on it because he didn't believe that Xavier could like him. A comfortable friendship developed, and they tried to fight the attraction they felt for each other, but eventually, they gave in and fell even harder. Their relationship was uncomplicated and easy. They didn't let drama or communication get in their way, and they were a lovely and perfect pair. I loved watching them come together, fall in love, and build a family together. even though there was a jerk ex, it was dealt with smoothly and with no too much angst to get me stressed. I enjoyed this a lot.

I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was just the sweetest story with a crazy ex, like legit nuttballs crazy, a hot ex SEAL bodyguard and a sweet, lonely rich boy. Really, Cris needed love so badly and he ended up with his little family. So good. Thank god for those dog tags. I'm just sayin'. A lot heavy on the sappy stuff and I wish the "Patrick" part of the book was more pronounced but overall a sweet romance. Longer than it needed to be for sure but still very enjoyable. Fun read and I'll definitely read more in this series.

[Marisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it so much !!

[Anna Torres · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes there is a silver lining we cannot see....yet!

Domestic abuse is very common in our society nowadays and most of the abused stay quiet and endure it because of shame and fright. If the family does not realize it, these abuses can last years, and the person being abused will slowly lose their confidence, self-esteem, feel degraded and unworthy.

Cris was in an abusive relationship, if that was really a relationship; and is still being threatened by his abuser even from a distance. When his friends, who he has been staying away from, learned and seen what his life has become, they had to intervene. They have to protect their brother who in turn has been protecting them too, or so he thought!

Xavier owns his own security firm with a few of his friends as business partners. A former Navy, he has his own nightmares to get through but it hasn’t stop him from protecting and providing protection services to people who need them. He has never met the person he is meant to be with. Protecting his best friend’s friend was just a job at first, until he got to know the person up close.

Who would have known that these two unlikely persons could become more than protector-protectee? This is a story with domestic abuse in the past, finding the loves of their lives and finally finding their own family. It is a story of friendship, family, acceptance and loyalty among friends. A story of finding your love in unexpected circumstances. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Ilona Ahrens · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third book in the „Stories of us“ series finally tells us Cris´s story. „A family of his own“ definitely can be read as a standalone but beautifully connects the dots to the first two books in the series. I clearly liked the explanations in „a family of his own“ and the link to Cris´s first appearance in the first book. And the whole series is just brilliant so it is of course worth reading!
Rheland Richmond follows her style of a very clear story line, the presentation of two interesting characters, beautiful wording, a gorgeous love story and the story of Cris´s way back to his chosen family! That´s one thing I like about Rheland´s series: the different aspects about what family is. And I clearly love all the kids in it 
I think Xavier´s and Cris´s story is my favorite so far. I love her play with her protagonists’ character traits. How the MCs see themselves and how their significant others perceive them. What is weakness what presents real strength? I love how Cris and Xavier are being drawn to each other from the beginning and how their deep and true connection develops. It is touching to see the development and growth of their relationship!
I am already looking forward to more of Rheland Richmond and her series!

[Belinda Zamora · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting for Chris's story from the beginning of this series, and I was not disappointed.
Chris has been alone for a long time, and even with the love of his friends (found family) he's always felt less-than and a burden to others.
When he begins his relationship with Patrick, he thinks he's finally found the one. He soon realizes what a dangerous mistake that was, but not before trying to hide the truth from his family because of his fear of disappointing them.
Once they realize the truth, they close ranks and hire a bodyguard for him.
When Xavier meets Chris, he they get off on the wrong foot.
As they spend time together, they slowly come to the realization that they may just be perfect for one another.
Chris finally feels seen and validated by Xavier, not to mention cherished and protected.
Xavier is fighting his own demons and Chris feels like home to him, a safe refuge.
Add in a sweet surprise, and this book hits all the right notes.

[Myeshia Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it!!!!!

As book 3bin the series, this is Chris's story. It was mentioned in the first two books that he had been acting different and in his book we find out why. At the end of book 2, we see Michael and Two frantically rushing to Chris's house after Lain finds him beaten, bloodied, and abused. This book gives us a prologue and then immediately picked up from the end of book 2. Xavier is brought in by Reid, Michael's best friend and it goes down a rabbit hole from there. Xav and Chris spend so much time fight their feelings for each other and when they finally come together,it is bliss. I loved the for each other. They kept each other on their toes. Add in crazy families, a psycho ex, and an adorable little baby and you have a fantastic romance. I absolutely loved this story. I can't wait for Lain's.

[Xochitl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a huge fan no only of the Stories of us series but of all Rheland Richmond’s books, so when I received this book as an ARC I was ecstatic, and my opinion cannot be unbiased because all my excitement (sorry!) Even if this book can be read as standalone, you would want to read the previous ones as many of the characters of those like Tristan and Nathaniel, Teo and Michael are also part of this story and you would like to know more about them to fully understand it. This book is about Cris and Xavier, and how they got together, you’ll find love, romance and hot scenes, lot of action, interesting and complicated situations that will keep you on edge until the very end. Of course, love and family always prevail and you got an HEA well deserved. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as me!

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The bodyguard trope is one I generally enjoy, especially when it involves people who need love and protection wrapped up in a sexy package. Adding in the power that comes from regained confidence and freedom claimed, and I'm usually a goner. But with this story I was struck right in the beginning by some disturbing comments and attitudes that I had a severely difficult time getting over. Cris and Xavier's connection also just didn't sink deep enough for me to fall in love with the story.

Cris had a really hard go of things. I could absolutely relate to his loneliness and when he got stuck with Patrick, I felt for him. In a cerebral way I can see how his inner strength got him through the ordeal, but on the page it seemed to fizzle out pretty quickly. The man he was when a surprise phone call came was one of vulnerability and eager hope. That man was interesting too, but not nearly as potent. There seemed to be a disconnect between who Cris was at the beginning and who he was near the end. I kind of liked both sides of him, but if they had been brought together well they would have cemented him as a whole and diverse character and I would have loved him. Unfortunately, that was not the case.

Xavier, on the other hand, started off as a noble man, one that I was curious to get to know. Except when he was faced with the surprising and captivating Cris, his mouth pissed me off. In what world is it ever okay, even to provoke a reaction, to victim blame? Sure it got Cris to spit fire from his eyes, but Xavier's whole attitude was one of heavy-handed and domineering authority that I absolutely didn't appreciate. He excused his terrible words and attitude later by saying he couldn't stand the idea of Cris hurt, but that was only ever one passing thought in his head never to be revisited. And then the pages and pages and pages devoted to his denial of any spark or feelings he might have for Cris was so overboard.

And so by chapter four, I was having an extremely difficult time getting into the story. I almost didn't care what happened. When the drama went down it was so close to the end of the story that I wasn't sure if anything was ever going to get answered. Sure enough, because it was left so last second, it felt more like an info-dump and everything was rushed which left me feeling underwhelmed. That and the overall pacing of the story was hard to swallow.

There were great moments in this story though, lest you think I detested the book. Every time Cris was genuinely happy, excited, and in awe of his gift, I was pretty floored by his immense love. Without Cris this story would have suffered severely. His heart was the best part of this whole book. While I wasn't drawn by any of his friends and didn't like their banter, Cris managed to rise above them and be someone I'd remember. He and Xavier really did work for their happiness and it was well-deserved.

[Amy Dufera - Amy's MM Romance Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

A Family of His Own is a great addition to Rheland Richmond's Stories of Us. The third book in the series, this one is great tale of two broken men who help each other to heal. It's a tale of two men finding a family together.

Cris has made some mistakes and now he's dealing with a stalker ex. Soon Xavier is assigned as Cris's bodyguard. Cris and Xavier are perfect together. Xavier's an ex Seal, which could explain Cris's reaction to him. However, in a heartwarming twist, it's just the presence of Xavier, the man, not the ex-Seal, that immediately instills a sense of peace and calmness in the man. Even better yet, Xavier has the same reaction to being with Cris.

The backstory is important, but it's slow and long, as it's told all at once. I prefer when we get slow snippets of a backstory, as told all at once it's a little distracting. But it still worked.

Now, for the fun stuff, Xavier's thoughtfulness starts to win Cris over and the lines start to blur. Cris and Xavier are heavy on the want, need, and heat. The chemistry is sizzling between these two.

Their story includes mistakes, fear, pain, and more. It also includes love, romance, and passion. These are two men with tough pasts. It's a riveting story of these two men healing. And it's a wonderful story of family. The reader is treated to some great friends and family banter. And even better yet, a sweet and adorable baby.

I love the author's writing style, as I feel invested in the characters from the start, and enjoy the entire journey with them. The storyline is fascinating, while also leaving me with an edge of fear throughout. Personally, I was surprised that there wasn't a heavier level of fear, but this worked well too. The focus on the importance of family is well developed and executed, and I enjoyed every moment.

A Family of His Own is a great read. The entire Stories of Us series is fantastic.
I highly recommend it when you're in the mood for a wonderful romance spun around some exciting danger and action.

[Mandy (MP Book Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Former Navy SEAL Xavier Thierry knows he is good at his job to protect the client. You do the job but never get too close—that’s his motto. When the friend he owes for saving his life asks for a favour, he doesn't hesitate to say yes, no questions asked. But babysitting some pampered brat is nowhere on his to-do list. Until he first lays eyes on him… Cris. And he’s nothing like Xav expected. He wasn't sure when this man stopped being a job, but the rules blur once Cris ends up in his arms. How can Xavier let him go when he’s the only one who chases away the darkness? Cris Whitcomb thought he finally found his happily ever after. But the fairytale soon became a nightmare, one that left him with only one choice - to push away those he loves to protect them. His chosen family refuses to be pushed away. Their solution, call in someone trusted to watch over and protect him - Xavier. But what happens when your future walks in on the worst day of your life? Maybe sometimes you have to go through the bad to get the best.

This was a very emotional story and you will cry when you feel everything that Cris has gone through. I loved the combination of Cris and Xav plus the excitement of their family enlargement. Their families were a little crazy but also very supportive too. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

** Please read the trigger warnings

[Dixiecowgirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unexpected connection create a bright chance at love for two awesome guys. Finding your special someone when you least expect it can be daunting, however these guys find the will and love to create their happiness and future together. Story-line is well crafted and the words flow beautifully. I found the story touching and was routing for our MC"s to find their way to love and a forever.

Chris and Xavier offer each other a connection that is unique and intense. They have wonderful chemistry and find so much more to build a relationship on for their future. This is a story of finding acceptance and that person that finds you a gift and so very special. This is about the true meaning of made family and appreciating the loyalty and comradely of long time friendship.

This is book three of the Stories of Us series and can be read as a stand-alone. I had not read the other books prior to reading this one and i was able to follow along just fine. I did find the other characters interesting and will be going and reading the previous books to catch up on their stories.

I was gifted this book from the LesCourt Author Services and i freely give my honest opinion and review.

[Patricia Hoffstaetter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable, beautiful & heartwarming slow-burn MM romance although it was heart-wrenching to read in some places. The plot is well-written; it draws the reader’s attention & keeps it until the last page has been turned. The characters are well-developed & the first impression is that there are absolutely no common interests between them but they actually complement each other as they draw closer together. There are character crossovers but this book can be read as a standalone.
There is: a young vulnerable yet feisty male billionaire (Cris) that was beaten & abused, his caring friends (Teo, Tristan, Lain & their partners), a abusive stalker ex (Patrick), a bodyguard (Xavier) hired to protect Chris but is attracted to him, a cute baby boy (Nash), some twists, drama, suspense, intrigue, memories, domestic abuse, friendship, attraction, threats, danger, abduction, deceit, betrayal, emotional turmoil, panic, verbal confrontation, apologies, secrets, memories, fear, distraction, complications, determination, explanations, threatening calls, trust, verbal banter, manipulations, rescued, love, some steam, contentment & a satisfying conclusion.

[Rachwithheadinabook · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5* of protective man

** Warning** Domestic violence, PTSD Flashbacks/dreams.

This third instalment of this series has been long awaited, with hints about what was going on with Cris in the previous books we finally get his story.
Xavier comes when his friend Reid calls about a friend of a friend's partner needs his help. What he finds is a battered, bruised but not broken, red headed spitfire Cris. The connection was instantaneous, both tried to keep the other at arms length but it didn't last long and when they come together it is explosive.

This is a bodyguard take with two of the sweetest characters ever, This is a book about family, believing that you are deserving of love and not giving up. I really enjoyed all of the books in this series so far but I think this is my favourite. Well worth reading.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful story about healing, family, and finding a place to belong. Sparks fly from the moment they meet, in a less-than-ideal moment for Cris, but there is a wonderful slow-burn for a while as Cris has to heal both physically and mentally from his horror of an ex. These two are perfect for each other and help each other heal from the pain of their pasts while trying to protect Cris from Patrick,, and when a certain surprise comes into their lives... ahhh my heart! I love the man Xavier is (can someone find me an Xavier for myself please?) and I LOOOVED seeing Cris finally realizing just how much his family loves him, no matter what. Love, love, love. Can’t wait for Lain!!!

[Elaine Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been waiting on this book for a long time and I have to say it didn’t disappoint. Xavier and Cris are the hottest thing ever. Their passion and chemistry for each are shown throughout the book. Once I started I couldn’t put it down. Cris temper match the color of his hair. He’s a little feisty thing and I loved the fact that he wanted a child and decided to go forward with the foster care despite everything that’s going on. The book has everything romance, action, angst, some funny moments, and some hot sexy times. Loved the book, author, and the series. I’m looking forward to the next book from this author.

[Teal Wolf · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Family of His Own is the third book in the Stories of Us series by Rheland Richmond. This is a suspenseful drama meet bodyguard romance. So many emotions while reading this book. Anxious, sad, happy.... this book brings on all the feels. Xavier is sexy and protective and Cris is loyal and sweet.... I love these two men together. The supporting characters are amazing and interesting.

The story has drama, suspense, and romance.... there is a strong emphasis on family which I really love. Definitely a satisfying read and great addition to the series.

I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.

[kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting for Cris's story and A Family of His Own did not disappoint! Seeing Cris struggle with his place in his found family is painful. He needs the bonds that come with a parter of his own. When trouble finds him a protector arrives to keep him safe. Xavier is all Cris desires and so much more. These two just complete each other. Add in a baby and you couldn't ask for anything more.
Trouble is still looking for Cris and Xavier must stay focused on his new family's safety.
This story will give you all the feels you could want!

[Maria771 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Xavier and Cris. This is a first time author for me and what a lovely surprise. I absolutely loved this story. Will definately read thevprevious 2. I loved the dynamic betweem Xavier and Cris and the family and how much they mean to each other. The chemistry between them is amazing. Loved how they were drawn to each other from the beginning. This book has everything that makes for a great read. Beautifully written.

I received this book as an Arc and I am reviewing it voluntarily.

[Patricia Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This talented author has added a fantastic,grab-you-by-the-feels, powerful, heartbreaking yet hopeful, engaging, gripping, enthralling, intense, slow burning, and totally awesome twist on the standard bodyguard/client storyline. On the surface, Xavier and Cris seem to have nothing in common, but underneath each one completes and heals the other. It had me hooked from beginning to end, and I would definitely recommend one clicking this gem ASAP.

[P Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven’t read the other books in this series but I’m definitely checking them out.

The beginning was intense, heartbreaking and bought tears to my eyes. Cris was damaged but far from broken which was evident, from the way he faced off with Xav when they first met.

Cris and Xav were smoking hot together and I enjoyed their slow burn romance.

This was a beautiful story about healing, family, love and finding someone you belong with.

[Violet Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in The Stories of Us Series. A great book with good writing. The writing has gotten better from the first book. The plot was entertaining and it was steady throughout the book. I found the story and characters likeable. The characters were developed and thought out. Xavier and Cris are the MC’s of this book. I can recommend this book as a good read. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book for an honest review.

[Patti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

Oh my! An abusive, controlling partner, tearing Cris away from his made family... Until his friend Lain found him almost beaten to death. In steps Xavier a friend of a friend... An ex Navy Seal, now a bodyguard. The attraction is instant and Xavier tries to keep it professional...
Angsty, emotional, hopeful, love... all the emotions.. loved it ! Was great seeing past characters. Great series.. looking forward to more...

[Guilherme William · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sooo cute, and also terribly devastating at the beginning but still really really cute and it was exactly what i needed.

I am however going to say that the whole abusive ex plot needed to be more developed. I felt like the story ended and I still had questions about his motivations and especially the means he had to all of his actions.

Still, 5 stars because I was really in need of a cute family story.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Xavier and Cris's story is a heartbreaking and heartwarming. Such a beautiful story. Both these characters are just perfect for each other. They help each other healing from their past and it is so beautiful to watch. That one the reasons I love slow burn story. It makes the romance of the story so worthwhile by the end. I just couldn't stop read. I love this so much!

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story I've been waiting for

I've been waiting for this story since book 1. I knew Cris was going through something but holy cow to know what he was going through since book 1 is just beyond what I had imagined. I think Rheland did a great job with this story considering the subject matter of abuse.

[Denise GremoryKohta · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good!

The drama and suspense had me anxiously turning each page. I was always wondering how and when. And mixed in with that we get these two amazing guys who are just what the other needed. From loneliness and fear to hope, not and love, what an amazing journey. Make sure you read the trigger warnings though. Not always an easy read but so important to the story.

[Grace Fitzpatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional sneak

While I was living reading about Xavier and Cris' heart warming love story some events that happened snuck up on me causing tears to come unexpectedly. I truly enjoy this series and can not wait to read about Lain. As always Rheland Richmond captured me from the beginning until the last word.