Introducing an exciting new series filled with suspense, sacrifice, family, and most of all, the healing power of love. Welcome to the Family…
One. Defining. Moment.
Kasey Moore is happy to be home. Moving to New Hope as a teenager hadn’t been easy, but once she settled in, she couldn’t imagine herself living anywhere else. After four years in College, she’s finally back to living in the town she loves and working her dream job as a teacher at the Elementary School.
For Kasey, her life couldn’t be more perfect.
Until a school assembly, an arrogant man, and a hot encounter in a closet shakes up everything Kasey thinks she wants.
Ten years as a Navy SEAL and Jackson Dimarco is coming home.
Ten years of rigid schedules, almost unreachable expectations, and being a part of something bigger than himself has changed him. Coming home, trying to find himself, the last thing Jax wants to do is talk to an auditorium full of school kids about his time in the military, but when his brother signs him up that’s exactly what he ends up doing.
And he meets someone who challenges him in a way nobody has in a very long time. He meets someone who inspires him to become more than who he’s settled for. He meets someone who makes him feel alive again.
It’s just a shame she doesn’t feel the same way.
But Jackson Dimarco has always loved a challenge and Kasey Moore is the biggest incentive he’s ever had to win.
This is a novella in The Dimarco Series. Can be read as a standalone and at any point in the series. However, if new to the series, I'd recommend reading this novella before the first book in the series, Lucy.
Jennifer Hanks is a busy author and mom. Her stories are contemporary romance and romantic suspense, all with the underlying message of the power and strength in love. She’s also a sucker for a Happily-Ever-After. Her love of reading and books in general started at a very young age and has steadily grown into a love of writing as well. She admits to being addicted to all things romance and has no plans of quitting her habit. Jennifer lives in Pennsylvania with her two children. When she’s not reading or writing, she can be found with her kids at their various activities. Her house is frequently filled with any combination of her children’s friends, nieces, nephews and a variety of pets.
This little novella gives us the story of Jax Dimarco and Kasey Moore, teacher Kasey meets Jax on the day she has organised for everyday/local heroes to talk to the students, she contacted Luke Dimarco as a cop and he encouraged his brother Jax as a former Seal to be part of the event. To say Jax is not happy about taking part is no understatement, and he is an ass when he meets Kasey, what I liked was Kasey didn’t take his crap, rather she called him up on it. One minute they’re arguing the next think they’re in the janitor’s closet kissing like there is no tomorrow.
Despite the hot kiss Kasey is wary, and Jax is definitely the pursuer in this book. Jax as a main character/hero was ok, but I don’t know I didn’t love him as I did his brothers, Cam annoyed me a little but my feelings for Jax are super lacklustre. Kasey, I enjoyed and liked. I do wish there had been more details given on Kasey, and more layering to the story/romance, but this was a easy light read.
Reading this book last didn't feel problematic at all, it was nice getting a little more insight into everyone, I do wish Ben would stop
Kasey's principal volunteers her to organize a talk for the kids of the school with every day heroes,she contacted Luke as a cop and he invited Jax as a former Seal to be part of the event. Jax reluctantly agrees but rushes to the event late. He's an ass to Kasey but she doesn't put up with his bs. Jack thinks she's hot when she's riled up and these two end up in a janitors closet making out. With that one encounter Jax can't stop thinking about Kasey and he engages in pursuit of the fiesty teacher.
Insta attraction Jax was one teeny,tiny step up from a caveman Kasey went on a date but it was more a matchmaking effort than actual date Jax had his share of ONS during his time as a Seal but he's been celibate for a year No real details on Kasey No OW/OM drama
Before starting this book I'd quit 2 others where the h was the main pursuer of the relationship something I'm not a fan off. I think that contributed heavily to my enjoyment of this one where the opposite occurred. Jax was heavy handed and pushy but it was a relief to see him doing the chasing. I loved the family and the close relationship between the brothers. This was my first read by this author but I found myself curious about the brothers and their stories so I'll definitely try more books in this series.
I did find it strange it's the Dimarco series but the books are named after the h of each book
KASEY by Jennifer Hanks is book 0 in The Dimarco Series. This tells the story of Kasey Moore and Jackson Dimarco. If you have been reading the series then you know Kasey and Jax, they have been throughout the series of books. The author is giving us the gift of this book and their story I feel. With that said...this can be a standalone book if you wish to do so(...but why...this is a great series!!!!). Kasey is a young teacher who is fresh from college and working in a elementary school. Jax is just done Ten years as a Navy SEAL , not sure how to adjust back to normal life. When Jax's brother signs me up to speak at a elementary school, which he isn't to happy about. But then he meets Kasey and words and sparks fly between the two.
I really enjoyed this look into Jax and Kasey's backstory. Not only did it give us a look into their pasts, we also get little tidbits from the rest of the family. Good addition to the series.
If there is one family that I wish to be a part of it would have to be the DiMarco Family. They are just one of the nicest book families I have read and they are down to earth too and just so open-arm welcoming - well to all the people they deem as worthy which definitely doesn't include Julie but she got her comeuppance finally and Jake got his HEA with Elaina. Kasey tells the story of how Kasey got the first DiMarco brother Jax aka Jackson. This was a cute story to read as Kasey has always been present in the background since Book #1 and to Book #6 as I still have two more to read which are Grace's and Ben's love stories. In Kasey, Jax has just returned home from serving the past ten years as a SEAL and now he has returned stateside to New Hope and is like a lost puppy. That is until Luke forces him to participate in a Heroes assembly where Jax meets 4th-grade teacher Kasey and the chemistry is instant as she challenges him and in a good way too. Kasey is the spark that Jax needed and also it looks like he has found his "one". Kasey though comes from a small family as she is an only child, is she ready for the world of the DiMarco family as once you are with one - then you are part of the whole family. I loved reading Kasey's story and was pleased that she was another strong female character. In Kasey, we also get a glimpse of Charlie who is Grace's best friend and we see in Ben's story - that she is "his one". If you love good strong family values and looking for a wholesome heartfelt series - then check out the DiMarco Series by Jennifer Hanks as you will not be disappointed and like me, you will feel the pull to join this family.
I have loved the Dimarcos for quite some time, but this book is exactly what was missing. The story of where it all began. A glimpse into who they were before. The story of Jax and Kasey. Fans of the series, will absolutely love this glimpse into the past, and new fans now have the perfect place to start.
Jax and Kasey are perfect! I absolutely loved watching Kasey in all her sassy glory make Jax work for what he wanted. She is strong, independent, and funny. She is the perfect balance to Jax and his bossy, grumpy self. They are truly one of those couples that make each other better. When Jax came home from war, he needed to find home again, and that’s exactly what Kasey became. Even if she didn’t come easy...or maybe because she didn’t come easy.
This book will melt your Kindle. Jax and Kasey have so much chemistry. That kind of spark couldn’t be contained forever, and once it exploded, it was so HOT! However, I love that the extreme heat was balanced with sweet, swoony moments.
While I’m not normally drawn to novellas, this is an amazing prequel. The characters and story are well developed, but you are left longing for more of this family. Luckily there is already more waiting!
During the DiMarco series, Jennifer Hanks has given us some snippets of Jax and Kasey but the series begins with their wedding. So what we know of them is through the eyes of the story teller.
Kasey is a prequel, a teaser and a reminiscent novella all in one. For someone new to the series, this could be read first or at anytime during the series. It can also be read as a standalone.
The novella Kasey goes back and tells the story of Jax and Kasey and their love story. Because it's a novella, it's quick. There isn't as much angst and drama like the other books have.
However, for those of us that have read the other books in the series, there are some possible teasers for stories that haven't been told.
My opinion of Jax before reading Kasey is that he's ultra bossy, holds grudges like a five year old, yet he is loyal to his family. Jax became persona non grata because of one grudge he would not let go of (read Gianna if you haven't) for a little while. I loved the insight to his behavior, his character and struggles.
I also loved that I got to see more of Kasey and who she is as an individual. She is like a little kitten. Sweet until backed into a corner. She would be someone you would want as a friend and in your corner.
Besides the stories told, my other favorite part of the series are the covers. They are absolutely gorgeous and I look forward to seeing the covers for each release to get a hint at what this person will be like.
This is one of my favorite series and it is one I always try to suggest to people looking for something to read.
Kasey Moore and Jax Dimarco meet through a school function. Jax is a former Navy SEAL who has been going through the motions of life the last 6 months as he reacclimatizes to civilization. Everyone gives him wide berth except Kasey, which immediately captures his attention and turns him on. I can handle instalove, but this didn't quite convince me and I felt like I missing something. One second Kasey is giving Jax a piece of her mind for being so openly rude and then he’s got her cornered in a janitor’s closet, making Kasey lose her brain by letting him do things that affirm how ridiculous this scenario is. That initial lust felt like it came out of left field and Jax turned all possessive and I wasn’t convinced, I felt like I was being told how combustible their chemistry was, but didn’t witness it firsthand. They anticlimaxed relatively early, to where I was more interested in Kasey’s friends Mark and Kara or Jax’s brother Ben and his sister-like friend Charlie. This novella does introduce an interesting and close knit family, so perhaps the next book will have more three dimensional characters.
This was a really good intro to this series. I adored the sexy Alpha, Jax, and sassy, smart and sexy Kasey. Their story was packed with laughs and just enough emotionally charged moments. Great Read!
Hot, hot, hot! A sweet and super steamy romance! Whoohoo! Back with the Dimarco clan! This novella gives us the beginnings of Jax and Kasey. Not only did I love visiting the Dimarco family again, but learning how these two first come together. While we get to delve into the beginnings of Jax and Kasey, we also get back stories on the other characters we’ve grown to love. Now that I have more background on Charlie, I am super curious what is going to happen with her. HMMM… Ben and Charlie? Jax returns home after his time as a Navy SEAL is up. He is floundering with what to do with himself, desperately searching how to make his life whole once more. When his brother signs him up to speak at an elementary school, he begrudgingly attends. Little does he know that’s where his life will begin again. Kasey is a new teacher trying to make a career for herself. When in steps a forceful, unapologetic, but gorgeous hunk of a man. These two quickly discover that life together sizzles. That one person, with those eyes, that mouth…. makes you lose all thought, along with your panties! I loved how they would get so enraptured with each other that they lose all commonsense and do things they wouldn’t normally do. Seriously, the janitor’s closet? Once Jax decides Kasey is it for him, there is no stopping him. Their relationship is fast and furious. Kasey is having a harder time accepting the timeline and worries they are rushing things. “I am not a patient man, but if I have the promise of you in the end, I’ll wait as long as you need me to.” Kasey has the inner strength that Jax needs and comes to rely on. He realizes early on that Kasey sees past his bulls@#t and doesn’t’ hesitate to call him out. This solidifies the relationship all the more for Jax. Not only did I thoroughly, and I mean thoroughly enjoy reading about Jax and Kasey, but I equally enjoyed the DiMarco family relationships and antics! The hilarious banter cracks me up. Jennifer Hanks’ talented writing created a great story with perfect amounts of drama and steam, off set with humor only smart aleck siblings can pull off. This is a wonderful addition to the Dimarco series! I read an ARC of this story. My fair and honest review is voluntary.
“Welcome to the family” that is exactly how this entire series makes you feel and now with this fabulous Novella a part you didn’t realize was missing is filled. Jax and Kasey were always such a cute couple in the other books but it wasn’t until this novella was announced that I realized how much I wanted to hear more of their story.
Hints of their story is dropped throughout the other books in the series but those hints make this novella that much more exciting!
I have fallen in love with Kasey and Jax they are truly wonderful! Kasey is sassy, independent and so passionate. Definitely that cool elementary teacher that is everyone’s favorite and they talk about when they are adults as being their “favorite teacher”. Jax is rough around the ages and gives off a sense of arrogance. It’s very enjoyable watching Kasey challenge him and push him and of course he eventually reveals is golden boyside which we all love. Kasey truily helps Jax to find himself after coming home from years on the war front and it’s such heartwarming story. It tugs at your heart but will also make you laugh a bit and you will likely want to slap Jax a few times. But seriously it wouldn’t be a Dimarco story if you didn’t want to slap the hero a few times during it.
I hope you enjoy this story as much as I have! Happy Reading!
Being a huge lover of The Dimarco’s series I was excited for Jennifer Hanks next instalment of the series but Kasey was definitely one of those stories I didn’t realise how much I needed to read! Not only was it fun and flirty but it also gave me deeper lover for Jackson and Kasey!
Always in the background of his siblings stories Jackson Dimarco intrigued me from the start of the series but nothing could prepare me for the huge crush I was going to develop while reading how he managed to catch such an amazing person like Kasey!
Kasey is a sweet school teacher with a sassy streak a mile long, she is quickly knocked of balance by Jackson advances and I don’t think she ever recovers . In true Dimarco spirit one meeting with his family and she’s quickly engulfed by there love and support, as soon as I heard Jack call her “Darling” I know she was a goner. How could she not be with such a great guy like Jackson consuming every spare second in her mind, he quickly found himself playing an even bigger part of in her life and that was the keeper of her heart!
I’m so glad Jennifer took the step back in time to give us this book but I really hope there are still more of these amazing books in the future, I don’t think I will ever get enough of The Dimarco family.
Having read the entire DiMarco series already, I was thrilled to learn about Jax and Kasey's story being released. This book takes place two years before the beginning of Lucy, the first book in the series. Jax has just come home after discharging from the military and being a SEAL. He's a bit lost, not knowing what to do with his life or who he is if he isn't a SEAL. He is working in the family construction business, but he knows that isn't what he wants to do forever. Kasey is a teacher at the local elementary school. When she is voluntold to put on an assembly featuring local heroes, she talks to Luke DiMarco, a police officer, about coming and he recommends his brother Jax. Kasey and Jax start arguing almost immediately upon meeting. Then just as quickly they are making out in the janitor's closet. That push and pull is the essence of their entire relationship and it is fantastic in this book. We know the couple as long-term partners in the other books but reading about their beginning was fun. The love and support of each other, the teasing and sass, and the feeling of "I've got your back and you have mine" is clear to see from the beginning.
Moving back home Kasey gets a job teaching fourth graders and she loves it.To her surprise she finds that she has been listed as Chairperson of the committee to organize the Local Hero Program.With the help of her friend and fellow teacher Kara they start to enlist the heros to come.
A chance phone call to the Police Department puts her in contact with officer Luc DiMarco.
Luc volunteers not only himself but his brother Jax,he has returned from military service and Luc wants to give him a push back into life.
When Jax finds out what Luc is done he is furious,he has no interest in volunteering.
When he arrives at the school he has an attitude and is not afraid to show it,until he comes face to face with Kasey he gives her a hard time but Kasey gives it right back to him letting him know that if he isn't here to do good then he should just leave.Jax can't believe his eyes and ears this little thing has some sass and no fear of him.
Now Kasey is on Jaxs radar and he is going to do everything to get her into his life and she won't say no.She's what he needs to live again.
This is a great series I loved everyone of them happy endings for all.
I need to start off by mentioning how beautiful this cover is - I love the purple!
Jax and Kasey have been a staple in all the prior stories. They were a very lovable couple, but we didn’t really know too much about how they became married (happened in Lucy’s story). A couple. A couple with a cute little girl. The happily married couple. This story answers all the questions I previously had about them. I truly enjoyed this story! So freaking much! It was amazing! And now I feel a re-read of the whole series.
I highly recommend this story and this series! Feel free to read this one first or after Kate which is the order they were written in. I’m going to suggest first. Either way, you won’t be disappointed.
P.S. I hope to see Charlie in a future book. (Hi Ben!)
I really liked the Dimarco family dynamics. A large family who all love big and care for their friends just as much. I also liked the beginning of Jax and Kasey's relationship.
As I read, though, there were so many story threads introduced. I felt like it took away from my ability to be invested in Jax and Kasey. With this being a novella I understood their instalove, but I do wish we had gotten to see a bit more of them building a relationship and falling in love. Also, there was one situation where Jax shows up at Kasey's house that felt off. They barely knew each other but he basically breaks in and she doesn't seem to think it's too big a deal? That didn't seem realistic at all.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review
I cannot believe this is called a novella it’s such a good length although it does read really quick, but really only because it is just that good you can’t put it down. I am seriously in love with the DiMarco family and cannot wait to read the whole lineup. I’m so glad I get to actually read it from the beginning!
Jax and Kasey definitely have what you would call an instant attraction and it really only gets hotter as their relationships develops. I’m really excited to get to read about some more of these hot brothers (and their sister and future wives)
Wow I loved this book by jennifer hanks. It was amazing I've been waiting awhile for this. Jax is a retired solider. Kacey is a school teacher. When they meet it didnt start out the best way. Jax was mean to kacey and she give as good as she got. I liked how the chemistry between them grow and the love they had was amazing. This book is before Lucy. Brilliant read thanks Jennifer for another amazing book. Can't wait for your next book.
I am just now starting this entire series in anticipation of the latest, Charlie, which is publishing next month. I completely fell in love with Jax and Kasey from the beginning and loved the entire story! I did struggle to keep all of Jax's brothers straight, but since I'm just starting the series, I'm sure I'll figure it all out soon enough! Highly recommend this novella.
*Thanks to GMB for providing a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
I read this before reading all the rest, so maybe that influences my opinion differently than those that read this after they read the first few books.
I liked the couple enough. Its a novella so things move at light speed. I like the idea of big families that are kinda up in each other's businesses, but I prefer some discretion also. Some pretty big sexism and double standards from the brothers towards their sister and even the heroine doesn't call him out on it. Wasn't thrilled with that.
Yep this book hooked me in and started my binge read of this series. Jax is a wonderful alpha. Eek. Sexy! WINK! He is a former SEAL returning home to his CRAZY and large family. Kasey is a beautiful elementary school teacher. Ummm these two heat up the page together. Plan for some intrigued is weaved throughout. Really good read. Ugh on the next one. Haha. Happy Reading!
This prequel novella to the Dimarco Series did a great job of reeling me in! I loved Jax despite his rough edges in the beginning, as I’m a sucker for military men in books! The banter between the other characters/family members is top notch. Loved Jax and Kasey!! I’ve already downloaded the next book through KU!!
I began this one to start the series from the beginning but just could not get invested in the main characters. It was too insta love and just didn’t draw me in. Not sure if I’ll try to continue series or not.
I read this based on a suggestion from a reading group. I enjoyed it until the first time the H and h had sex. It was so out of character that it took me aback. From then on I started skimming the story and was relieved when it was over. I probably won't read more in the series.
I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to continuing the series! A new author for me. Easy and relaxing to read. Story and family keep your interest, with some comedy and spice as part of the package.
I’ve had this on my kindle for a while and now I’m kicking myself for just now getting to it....fantastic story by this new to me author. I laughed, I swooned and I adored all of the characters.....I absolutely can’t wait to lose myself in the DeMarco series.
This was a wonderful addition to the Dimarco stories. Even though we had already met Kasey and Jax in the other books it was good to get their story and get an earlier glimpse into everyone else.