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Lovestrong #5
How to Heal
Take one former bully, unable to forgive himself for the sins of his past…
Clark Danvers is a wild twenty-one year old who’s trying to prove he’s an adult. With a two-year degree in hand, he manages the family car dealership and seemingly parties by night. Given the amount of times he’s been pulled over for speeding by Deputy Rick Matthews, public opinion seems to be right. But what people don’t see are the scars he carries both inside and out. Scars from a past he can’t run away from and will never be able to atone for, no matter how many times he beats himself over it.
Add one no-nonsense cop who longs to be a Daddy for the right boy…
Jericho “Rick” Matthews never expects the bratty kid who gets on his last nerve to pull at his heartstrings. When he finds Clark battered and fighting for his life in a motel room, Rick’s Daddy mode is instantly engaged. Before he can think of anything else, he must first comfort this hurting boy.
To equal a pair of men who might just be what the other needs.
The two men who thought they couldn’t stand each other are drawn together after a date gone wrong. While Rick tenderly cares for Clark, he decides what this brat needs is a Daddy… someone to help him break free from the past and embrace the promise of many happy tomorrows.
This is the fifth book in the LOVESTRONG series about finding love and being yourself in a small town. Intended only for 18+ readers, this is an mm romance full of all the sweet feels you’d want from an S. Hawke book.
Note: Possible trigger warning for mentions of self-harm and a scene involving a man who’s consented to having himself tied up. What he didn’t agree to was being left that way for an entire weekend. This highly emotional scene is the catalyst to evoke “Daddy’s” protective mode in a tale filled with themes of hurt and comfort and the struggle of overcoming a difficult past.
Clark Danvers is a wild twenty-one year old who’s trying to prove he’s an adult. With a two-year degree in hand, he manages the family car dealership and seemingly parties by night. Given the amount of times he’s been pulled over for speeding by Deputy Rick Matthews, public opinion seems to be right. But what people don’t see are the scars he carries both inside and out. Scars from a past he can’t run away from and will never be able to atone for, no matter how many times he beats himself over it.
Add one no-nonsense cop who longs to be a Daddy for the right boy…
Jericho “Rick” Matthews never expects the bratty kid who gets on his last nerve to pull at his heartstrings. When he finds Clark battered and fighting for his life in a motel room, Rick’s Daddy mode is instantly engaged. Before he can think of anything else, he must first comfort this hurting boy.
To equal a pair of men who might just be what the other needs.
The two men who thought they couldn’t stand each other are drawn together after a date gone wrong. While Rick tenderly cares for Clark, he decides what this brat needs is a Daddy… someone to help him break free from the past and embrace the promise of many happy tomorrows.
This is the fifth book in the LOVESTRONG series about finding love and being yourself in a small town. Intended only for 18+ readers, this is an mm romance full of all the sweet feels you’d want from an S. Hawke book.
Note: Possible trigger warning for mentions of self-harm and a scene involving a man who’s consented to having himself tied up. What he didn’t agree to was being left that way for an entire weekend. This highly emotional scene is the catalyst to evoke “Daddy’s” protective mode in a tale filled with themes of hurt and comfort and the struggle of overcoming a difficult past.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2019
201 people are currently reading
220 people want to read
About the author
Susan Hawke
35 books367 followersSusan Hawke is more widely known for her mpreg writings as Susi Hawke; this new name is a departure from that. Whether written by Susan or Susi, the books are filled with that all-important love, laughter, and family; the only difference is that this name has no male pregnancy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
November 2, 2019
Narrated by Michael Pauley, How to Heal is the fifth book in Susan Hawke’s Lovestrong series. Don’t be put off by that “#5” though, this is only the second book in the series I’ve listened to and Ms. Hawke makes it easy to stay in the loop. It is a progressive series, and folks from different books pop in and out, but I had no problem following along. (It does make me want to go back and get the dirty details on what I’ve missed though!)
Michael Pauley is an excellent choice for this series. His smooth, sensual voice never fails to do his job, and the emotion he adds to the intimate scenes is stunning.
We meet Rick in How Not to Break and this sweet man captured a piece of my heart. Holding out hope that one day he’ll find a special boy of his own, I knew Clark was going to end up being perfect for him. Also, the fact that Clark is only 21 (yay, age-gap!), and tall and built, just adds to the appeal of the daddy kink for me.
Just a word about the way Ms. Hawke handles the daddy kink. This is not an age-play story and the daddy/boy dynamic is very relaxed for these two men. It’s done in a healing way, giving both characters what they need as it strengthens their bond.
How to Heal is a beautifully told story of Clark’s progress as he works through the guilt of his past transgressions. It’s a tough road, as Clark is a victim himself. Thankfully he has a great support system in the community which gives him the help he needs as he works his way through the process.
This is a well written and intricate tale. As information is revealed and loose ends sewn up, Susan Hawke weaves in some fascinating details. Sadly the 7 1/2 hours flew by too fast and just leaves me wanting more!
an audiobook copy of How to Heal was provided to me for the purpose of my review
Michael Pauley is an excellent choice for this series. His smooth, sensual voice never fails to do his job, and the emotion he adds to the intimate scenes is stunning.
We meet Rick in How Not to Break and this sweet man captured a piece of my heart. Holding out hope that one day he’ll find a special boy of his own, I knew Clark was going to end up being perfect for him. Also, the fact that Clark is only 21 (yay, age-gap!), and tall and built, just adds to the appeal of the daddy kink for me.
Just a word about the way Ms. Hawke handles the daddy kink. This is not an age-play story and the daddy/boy dynamic is very relaxed for these two men. It’s done in a healing way, giving both characters what they need as it strengthens their bond.
How to Heal is a beautifully told story of Clark’s progress as he works through the guilt of his past transgressions. It’s a tough road, as Clark is a victim himself. Thankfully he has a great support system in the community which gives him the help he needs as he works his way through the process.
This is a well written and intricate tale. As information is revealed and loose ends sewn up, Susan Hawke weaves in some fascinating details. Sadly the 7 1/2 hours flew by too fast and just leaves me wanting more!
an audiobook copy of How to Heal was provided to me for the purpose of my review
September 5, 2019
I really wanted to like this more. The hurt/comfort parts were what kept me interested, but overall I can’t say this was a winner.
I don’t really like it when characters talk to each other like the reader is a bit stupid. Like when jokes are explained, or how every single facial expression is mentioned and talked about. Yes yes yes, I get it already. A bit more subtlety can go a long way. I don’t need every single thing explained.
I often felt these guys talked every little thing to death. This book could have easily been shorter and still covered the same ground. And that’s why I got bored when I wasn’t even halfway.
I liked the hurt parts because I was dying for the comfort parts, but the comfort parts were actually a bit too sappy for me. I felt these guys got together pretty quick, so the rest of the book was just them exploring their relationship. And there just wasn’t enough chemistry between these guys to keep my interest.
Not even the bedroom daddy kink could stop me from being bored.
So while this had a good start and the story was very promising, I still ended up reading faster and faster just to get it over with.
I don’t really like it when characters talk to each other like the reader is a bit stupid. Like when jokes are explained, or how every single facial expression is mentioned and talked about. Yes yes yes, I get it already. A bit more subtlety can go a long way. I don’t need every single thing explained.
I often felt these guys talked every little thing to death. This book could have easily been shorter and still covered the same ground. And that’s why I got bored when I wasn’t even halfway.
I liked the hurt parts because I was dying for the comfort parts, but the comfort parts were actually a bit too sappy for me. I felt these guys got together pretty quick, so the rest of the book was just them exploring their relationship. And there just wasn’t enough chemistry between these guys to keep my interest.
Not even the bedroom daddy kink could stop me from being bored.
So while this had a good start and the story was very promising, I still ended up reading faster and faster just to get it over with.
April 17, 2019
At 21, Clark is struggling in life. He’s still trying to atone for his sins from 6 years ago by doing daily penance.
When a BDSM scene does wrong, and he’s found practically on death’s door, officer Rick decides the boy needs a Daddy, and that he’s just the man for the job.
I really enjoyed this. Clark blossoms and matures under Rick’s care. The man also gets him to go back to therapy, which goes a long way towards his healing.
I enjoyed the men’s interactions both in and out of the bedroom, but also watching Clark’s transformation.
When a BDSM scene does wrong, and he’s found practically on death’s door, officer Rick decides the boy needs a Daddy, and that he’s just the man for the job.
I really enjoyed this. Clark blossoms and matures under Rick’s care. The man also gets him to go back to therapy, which goes a long way towards his healing.
I enjoyed the men’s interactions both in and out of the bedroom, but also watching Clark’s transformation.
April 27, 2019
Please note the blurb. Possible triggers. This is Clark's story so it also deals with self-loathing, mental and emotional abuse from his father. And in the end, physical. It talks of PTSD of a bullying issue, so if anything affects you, please be careful.
I was so happy for this story. So, so happy. After all that Clark had to endure from that pig of a father of his, I'm ecstatic to see him get a story and that it involves healing, forgiveness, and a man who can help Clark be the man he needs to be.
Clark has been working on getting better. The problem is, he feels so guilty, he thinks he needs punishment for penance. So he's looking for a Dom to give him some. He thinks he finds one, but the guy leaves Clark tied with ropes, no way to free himself for a whole weekend. He almost died from dehydration and many other things. And the one person he really didn't want see him like that, was one of the ones who found him and started helping. Rick. Rick is a cop. He's seen things in his life. So has his new partner. But nothing prepared him for how he felt seeing Clark tied up, laying in his own vomit, piss and shit, almost dead. It nearly destroyed him. It was even worse when he saw the stripes marring Clark's back. His daddy mode kicked in more than ever before and he knew he needed to take care of this boy. Especially when he finds out why the stripes are there on his back. It's going to be a hard, long road, but Rick is now invested and wants to see Clark be the man he wants to be. If they can just get past the hurdles of life and lack of communication.
I'm not going to lie. When I first met Clark, I hated him. Despised him for what he did to Grayson. But when I started finding out about who his pig of a father was, I felt sorry for him and wished he could get out of that situation. Thankfully, after a bad incident, Clark's mom woke up and got rid of the pig and divorced him. Clark was finally free and got to come out. But the said part in all of this, with small town life, comes small town mentalities and gossip. Clark is trying to do better, but some people won't let him forget who he was. And it breaks my heart. If people understood what Clark was doing to himself for penance, maybe they wouldn't be so quick to judge.
I'm just glad it was Rick that got to him. I'm glad Rick became the daddy for him. Rick began to show things to Clark to make him understand. He didn't need penance. He did his time for his mistakes and it was time to forgive himself, ask for forgiveness, and move on. And Rick never let him do that on his own. He always had Clark's back. Which was funny, considering he never though he would be anything to Clark but the cop that writes his tickets.
It's been a long, long road for Clark. You will see when you read. It has a bad past, but a future full of Hope, second chances and a new life. If he can just let himself let go.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
I was so happy for this story. So, so happy. After all that Clark had to endure from that pig of a father of his, I'm ecstatic to see him get a story and that it involves healing, forgiveness, and a man who can help Clark be the man he needs to be.
Clark has been working on getting better. The problem is, he feels so guilty, he thinks he needs punishment for penance. So he's looking for a Dom to give him some. He thinks he finds one, but the guy leaves Clark tied with ropes, no way to free himself for a whole weekend. He almost died from dehydration and many other things. And the one person he really didn't want see him like that, was one of the ones who found him and started helping. Rick. Rick is a cop. He's seen things in his life. So has his new partner. But nothing prepared him for how he felt seeing Clark tied up, laying in his own vomit, piss and shit, almost dead. It nearly destroyed him. It was even worse when he saw the stripes marring Clark's back. His daddy mode kicked in more than ever before and he knew he needed to take care of this boy. Especially when he finds out why the stripes are there on his back. It's going to be a hard, long road, but Rick is now invested and wants to see Clark be the man he wants to be. If they can just get past the hurdles of life and lack of communication.
I'm not going to lie. When I first met Clark, I hated him. Despised him for what he did to Grayson. But when I started finding out about who his pig of a father was, I felt sorry for him and wished he could get out of that situation. Thankfully, after a bad incident, Clark's mom woke up and got rid of the pig and divorced him. Clark was finally free and got to come out. But the said part in all of this, with small town life, comes small town mentalities and gossip. Clark is trying to do better, but some people won't let him forget who he was. And it breaks my heart. If people understood what Clark was doing to himself for penance, maybe they wouldn't be so quick to judge.
I'm just glad it was Rick that got to him. I'm glad Rick became the daddy for him. Rick began to show things to Clark to make him understand. He didn't need penance. He did his time for his mistakes and it was time to forgive himself, ask for forgiveness, and move on. And Rick never let him do that on his own. He always had Clark's back. Which was funny, considering he never though he would be anything to Clark but the cop that writes his tickets.
It's been a long, long road for Clark. You will see when you read. It has a bad past, but a future full of Hope, second chances and a new life. If he can just let himself let go.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
April 26, 2019
Remember Rick, the annoying ex boyfriend in the previous book? Yeah, he needed his own boy instead of trying coming back to Shaw who's only has eyes on Nick.
Enter Clark the rebellion annoying 21 year old CEO of his family business.
From being annoyed by Clark's behavior, to being protective of him, after one tortured night, Rick and Clark become depending to one another.
How to Heal, I can say is a better one from the whole series, imo. Though it was started with something unexpected from this series, and I needed to recover before continued to read, I enjoyed Rick and Clark's romance.
How to Heal is a good distraction from my busy week spying on the heated political event in my country. Clark and Rick were scorching hot and tender at the same time. They're really made for each other. You don't want to miss this installment.
Side note : though you can read this book as a standalone, I suggest you to read the earlier book to get to know Rick better.
May 22, 2019
A good book, especially if you are into Daddy-Boy dynamic, which I am not very much. Pretty good sex scenes! Overall, an enjoyable book
June 16, 2019
The Story seems to have gotten so many good reviews and I feel a bit like the odd one out when I say I didn't really care for it.
There is a good premise at the start with things going badly and what Clark have done to himself.
But I never get the deep connection with the characters.
I feel like I've being talked to rather than being part of the story.
There was no true despair from Clark as he goes through things and no struggle on his part to accept someone he loathed to take on such a large roll in his life. It all just seemed to easy.
It's possible me and this author just don't click.
The blurb made it seem like the story dug deeper than it did
I'm all for sweet, it just didn't work for me and I didn't finish it.
There is a good premise at the start with things going badly and what Clark have done to himself.
But I never get the deep connection with the characters.
I feel like I've being talked to rather than being part of the story.
There was no true despair from Clark as he goes through things and no struggle on his part to accept someone he loathed to take on such a large roll in his life. It all just seemed to easy.
It's possible me and this author just don't click.
The blurb made it seem like the story dug deeper than it did
I'm all for sweet, it just didn't work for me and I didn't finish it.
April 29, 2019
*Received A Copy To Review From The Author*
This is a perfectly fine read, but I won't remember it in a few days. There's nothing bad, but there's nothing great either. It's decent. The characters are mostly likable. Clark has done some stuff in his past that he's ashamed of (and rightfully so). Rick is a bit judgemental even though he denies it. I found him kind of overbearing. I think their dynamic shifts too quick and too lightly for me. And something about the way he treated Clark towards the end, during their big blow-up of a fight rubs me the wrong way and isn't called out. It was subtly abusive and it made me side-eye him and nothing that followed repaired it enough. I think it might've helped had I read any of the previous books in the series, (I just did a check mid-review and it seems like book 2 in the series is VERY closely tied to this one at the very least.) but I wasn't lost enough to not be able to follow along. Some of the drama and resolution felt a little stilted and rote if I'm honest, they didn't sound like actual humans at times. But it was mostly okay. It was what it was.
This is a perfectly fine read, but I won't remember it in a few days. There's nothing bad, but there's nothing great either. It's decent. The characters are mostly likable. Clark has done some stuff in his past that he's ashamed of (and rightfully so). Rick is a bit judgemental even though he denies it. I found him kind of overbearing. I think their dynamic shifts too quick and too lightly for me. And something about the way he treated Clark towards the end, during their big blow-up of a fight rubs me the wrong way and isn't called out. It was subtly abusive and it made me side-eye him and nothing that followed repaired it enough. I think it might've helped had I read any of the previous books in the series, (I just did a check mid-review and it seems like book 2 in the series is VERY closely tied to this one at the very least.) but I wasn't lost enough to not be able to follow along. Some of the drama and resolution felt a little stilted and rote if I'm honest, they didn't sound like actual humans at times. But it was mostly okay. It was what it was.
February 8, 2021
I loved that Clark finally got his own story. This book had a significantly darker tinge compared to it's predecessors. I thought SH handled the dark elements well and that the rather depressing start of the book was a clever way to establish immediate sympathy for Clark, a previously established bully/bad guy of the series. The plot was beyond predictable but I was too in love with the characters to mind too much. In fact I want nothing more than to run my fingers through Clark's curly blond hair right now. My sweet curly bird angel. ❤️️🐦
November 1, 2020
This is the third novel by Susan Hawke I've read, and it seems she's really skilled at writing beginnings, but the tension is relieved to fast and the ends take are too long. I LOVED the very harrowing start of this one, but especially the miraculous therapy left something to be desired in the end.
April 20, 2019
Arc copy provided courtesy of LesCourt
All reviews are voluntary and my honest opinion.
How not to Break is my favorite in the series thus far.
I knew as soon as Rick and Shaw talked about Rick being a Daddy Dom, this was a book I wanted to read, not to mention wanting to see Rick find someone of his own to protect, now that Shaw and St. Nick are paired off.
Beyond that, Clark is a very likable character. We've all screwed up at some point -- maybe not as badly as Clark did -- but he's certainly made up for it. I like the humanity of the characters. Not everyone is able to forgive, but you have to be able to forgive yourself. That's one of the most important things needed to heal.
My favorite thing about Rick is that he's not perfect. He doesn't rinse the sink when he shaves, he leaves his stuff everywhere. So many book Daddies are meticulous perfectionists, it's fun to see one who isn't.
I enjoyed this one from start to finish, it didn't feel slow for me at all, and I'll be rereading it in the future.
Heat 3/5
Rating 5/5
All reviews are voluntary and my honest opinion.
How not to Break is my favorite in the series thus far.
I knew as soon as Rick and Shaw talked about Rick being a Daddy Dom, this was a book I wanted to read, not to mention wanting to see Rick find someone of his own to protect, now that Shaw and St. Nick are paired off.
Beyond that, Clark is a very likable character. We've all screwed up at some point -- maybe not as badly as Clark did -- but he's certainly made up for it. I like the humanity of the characters. Not everyone is able to forgive, but you have to be able to forgive yourself. That's one of the most important things needed to heal.
My favorite thing about Rick is that he's not perfect. He doesn't rinse the sink when he shaves, he leaves his stuff everywhere. So many book Daddies are meticulous perfectionists, it's fun to see one who isn't.
I enjoyed this one from start to finish, it didn't feel slow for me at all, and I'll be rereading it in the future.
Heat 3/5
Rating 5/5
May 2, 2019
I struggled through 70%, not sure if this book has been written by the same author than the ones before. I missed the humor, I found it extremely repetitive and cheesy, so much that my brain actually started finishing the sentences before I've read them.
I've read several books with Daddy-themes but none has bored me so much as this one.
I'm still wondering if the book has been written by the same person as the others in this series, which I all enjoyed a lot.
I've read several books with Daddy-themes but none has bored me so much as this one.
I'm still wondering if the book has been written by the same person as the others in this series, which I all enjoyed a lot.
August 8, 2020
I love the fact that Clarke gets his story. Rick is a great match. They give each other balance. I like how we got to see Clarke grow. We also see that moving on involves hard choices. I really enjoyed the narration as well. It was well done I felt immersed in the story.
October 11, 2020
This may have been my favorite. I loved seeing Clark get his HEA that he worked so hard for.
October 26, 2020
Teile waren echt heftig, aber dann auch wieder sehr happy, sweet und das Ende war etwas in die Länge gezogen.
November 18, 2019
I love a good redemption arc. I did not love this book. I couldn't finish it because it left me so angry and triggered.
Major spoilers ahead
So yeah. This emotionally hurt to read. I liked the other books in the series (especially How Not To Blend and How Not To Tuck) and when I'm not feeling so raw and I'll review them but I'd advise any abuse victim to tread really lightly here because the abuser is prioritized over their victim and that can be a very damaging thing to read.
Major spoilers ahead
So yeah. This emotionally hurt to read. I liked the other books in the series (especially How Not To Blend and How Not To Tuck) and when I'm not feeling so raw and I'll review them but I'd advise any abuse victim to tread really lightly here because the abuser is prioritized over their victim and that can be a very damaging thing to read.
March 21, 2021
I was a bit hesitant before reading this. Not because I didn’t love the series or have faith in the author’s ability, but because Clark was such an awful character in past books and I wasn’t sure if I could like him enough to enjoy it. I am SO glad I was able to find redemption for Clark!
This book takes place a few years after his teenage antics and abuse of Grey and advise by his father. Clark is now 21 and trying to find his way while still harboring so much guilt. I can’t say I would’ve imagined Rick as a partner for him initially, but I liked them together as the book progressed. They both fulfilled a need the other had perfectly, and they were able to communicate a lot which I loved. A lot of this focused on Clark’s psychological healing, and I loved watching him blossom. There is age gap and Daddy kink in this book, and I thought they were both well written. I loved this and I loved seeing Clark forgive himself and find more of a place in his community. Excellent job by the author.
Edited to add
I listened to the audiobook of this, and Michael Pauley is amazing as always. I do have to admit that I had a little trouble listening to the beginning part of the book where Clark was first found by Rick; it was different listening to it rather than reading it. The rest of the book after that was awesome, though.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
This book takes place a few years after his teenage antics and abuse of Grey and advise by his father. Clark is now 21 and trying to find his way while still harboring so much guilt. I can’t say I would’ve imagined Rick as a partner for him initially, but I liked them together as the book progressed. They both fulfilled a need the other had perfectly, and they were able to communicate a lot which I loved. A lot of this focused on Clark’s psychological healing, and I loved watching him blossom. There is age gap and Daddy kink in this book, and I thought they were both well written. I loved this and I loved seeing Clark forgive himself and find more of a place in his community. Excellent job by the author.
Edited to add
I listened to the audiobook of this, and Michael Pauley is amazing as always. I do have to admit that I had a little trouble listening to the beginning part of the book where Clark was first found by Rick; it was different listening to it rather than reading it. The rest of the book after that was awesome, though.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
May 14, 2019
Nice
This was a nicely done story. It addressed several topics in a very nice way. Topics such as bullying, emotional and mental abuse and self harm. Rick was the rock and support that Clark needed. Overall, the story was entertaining and easy to read.
This was a nicely done story. It addressed several topics in a very nice way. Topics such as bullying, emotional and mental abuse and self harm. Rick was the rock and support that Clark needed. Overall, the story was entertaining and easy to read.
December 5, 2020
My absolute favorite of the series so far!
July 6, 2020
This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
I knew it! When I had finished book four of the ‘Lovestrong’ series, I had that gut feeling that someone had been… well, not really left out but somehow built to such an extent, as a character, that he deserved more attention. In book one he appeared as a secondary character—homo-bashing college bully Clark Danvers. He has turned from odious to intriguing, hurting young man in book three (because secretly gay himself), and that’s when I first thought he might become the central character of another installment. Lo and behold, here he is, reformed and redeemed. Aged twenty-one, manager of the family business, still struggling with anger issues and self-esteem below zero, self-loathing, self-punishing, but somehow endearing in his battles with his old demons. What I had not expected was the person with whom Susan Hawke would pair him up (even though that, too, could have been foreseeable): police deputy Jericho “Rick” Mathews, Shaw’s muscular and self-confident ex-boyfriend.
The story starts with Clark hooking up with a man he has met on a dating site for what he hopes will be a weekend of hot spanking and BDSM sessions. But the man is a creep (light spoiler: readers of the series have already encountered him previously, too). Instead of delivering what has been agreed on, he ties up Clark, forces him to do oral sex, then leaves him still bound up on the hotel bed. As Clark has instructed the hotel management he doesn’t want to be disturbed until Monday, he barely survives the two days until two cleaning ladies find him half-starved, severely dehydrated, soiled, on the brink of death. By the way, the ladies do believe he is dead already and call the police. Thus, Rick arrives on the scene. He is devastated when he sees the state the young man is in whom he only knows as a reckless, snotty youngster. When Clark is released from hospital, Rick drives him home and takes care of him until Clark’s mother, currently absent, comes back.
What follows is a heartwarming story of how to tame and heal the hurt boy Clark still is. I wasn’t really interested in Rick when he appeared as a secondary character in the previous books of this series, go figure why; but he really comes into his own in this one. He turns out to be a stubborn, but caring, intuitive, brave, and intelligent man. Clark has special needs, and Rick is the right guy to provide them. All right, the book made me discover some kinks I had never read about in such detail before (BDSM, spanking, and “daddy-ing” have never been on my to-do-list, I admit), but things were presented so naturally that I wasn’t even that surprised, let alone shocked. I found the dynamics rather interesting, to be honest. Well, for my taste, Clark and Rick discussed their blossoming relationship a tad too much; maybe it’s an American thing, maybe it was what the author thought Clark needed at that point, I couldn’t say. But all in all, it was a sweet, slightly different romance with bits of suspense and some scenes where I was even allowed to giggle (Rick’s family is a roar).
I knew it! When I had finished book four of the ‘Lovestrong’ series, I had that gut feeling that someone had been… well, not really left out but somehow built to such an extent, as a character, that he deserved more attention. In book one he appeared as a secondary character—homo-bashing college bully Clark Danvers. He has turned from odious to intriguing, hurting young man in book three (because secretly gay himself), and that’s when I first thought he might become the central character of another installment. Lo and behold, here he is, reformed and redeemed. Aged twenty-one, manager of the family business, still struggling with anger issues and self-esteem below zero, self-loathing, self-punishing, but somehow endearing in his battles with his old demons. What I had not expected was the person with whom Susan Hawke would pair him up (even though that, too, could have been foreseeable): police deputy Jericho “Rick” Mathews, Shaw’s muscular and self-confident ex-boyfriend.
The story starts with Clark hooking up with a man he has met on a dating site for what he hopes will be a weekend of hot spanking and BDSM sessions. But the man is a creep (light spoiler: readers of the series have already encountered him previously, too). Instead of delivering what has been agreed on, he ties up Clark, forces him to do oral sex, then leaves him still bound up on the hotel bed. As Clark has instructed the hotel management he doesn’t want to be disturbed until Monday, he barely survives the two days until two cleaning ladies find him half-starved, severely dehydrated, soiled, on the brink of death. By the way, the ladies do believe he is dead already and call the police. Thus, Rick arrives on the scene. He is devastated when he sees the state the young man is in whom he only knows as a reckless, snotty youngster. When Clark is released from hospital, Rick drives him home and takes care of him until Clark’s mother, currently absent, comes back.
What follows is a heartwarming story of how to tame and heal the hurt boy Clark still is. I wasn’t really interested in Rick when he appeared as a secondary character in the previous books of this series, go figure why; but he really comes into his own in this one. He turns out to be a stubborn, but caring, intuitive, brave, and intelligent man. Clark has special needs, and Rick is the right guy to provide them. All right, the book made me discover some kinks I had never read about in such detail before (BDSM, spanking, and “daddy-ing” have never been on my to-do-list, I admit), but things were presented so naturally that I wasn’t even that surprised, let alone shocked. I found the dynamics rather interesting, to be honest. Well, for my taste, Clark and Rick discussed their blossoming relationship a tad too much; maybe it’s an American thing, maybe it was what the author thought Clark needed at that point, I couldn’t say. But all in all, it was a sweet, slightly different romance with bits of suspense and some scenes where I was even allowed to giggle (Rick’s family is a roar).
April 29, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.5 stars
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
A story of how people change and can heal when they find their person!
A genuine story of growth. I’m so glad Susan decided to write Clark’s story. A case of a closeted bully (mentally and emotionally abused by his father) is well known but Susan wrote this story with so much heart and care. I felt for Clark and found myself relating to him and his desperate desire for redemption and penance.
This story was a great look at the “story” behind a bully and while I hate bullying of any kind, this story shows that we never really know someone else’s struggles. Clark is using various forms of self-flagellation in an attempt at redemption. He is using this as a way to face the pain he caused others, by inflicting pain on himself, and his dark path is brought into light when he almost dies when a hookup goes wrong. Clark’s journey to healing is thanks to many things but his connection with Rick is just beautiful. I loved the care and growing love between Rick and Clark, and the Daddy aspects fit perfectly with both these characters. I loved their connection and how Rick was able to guide and help Clark heal. Along with families (new and old), love and help from Sean, Clark was able to move forward and challenge his negative self-talk to grow and heal.
While this is a fictional story it has many bases in truth and could be confronting to some, but I found it hopeful and healing. The semi-colon tattoo mentioned in this story is very real and I myself have a semi-colon tattoo.
I thought I’d share one of my stories… I’ve wanted this tattoo for a while and I chose this as a reminder to be present. Moments pass too quickly and if you’re not careful they can pass by. I have learned to focus on the present and try not to worry about what the future will bring and focus on the here and now and cherish the time I have here. As you may know, I suffer from mental health issues and continue to strive to change the stigma around mental illnesses. I follow @projsemicolon (on Instagram) and what it represents and know that my story isn’t over yet. The semicolon represents my continued story and is for myself, my family and all those survivors and sufferers of mental illnesses out there. You are stronger than you think you are. Take it moment by moment, be here now and fight for yourself as best you can. Stay strong, your story is not over ;
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON PROJECT SEMICOLON CHECK OUT THEIR WEBSITE: HTTPS://PROJECTSEMICOLON.COM
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
A story of how people change and can heal when they find their person!
A genuine story of growth. I’m so glad Susan decided to write Clark’s story. A case of a closeted bully (mentally and emotionally abused by his father) is well known but Susan wrote this story with so much heart and care. I felt for Clark and found myself relating to him and his desperate desire for redemption and penance.
This story was a great look at the “story” behind a bully and while I hate bullying of any kind, this story shows that we never really know someone else’s struggles. Clark is using various forms of self-flagellation in an attempt at redemption. He is using this as a way to face the pain he caused others, by inflicting pain on himself, and his dark path is brought into light when he almost dies when a hookup goes wrong. Clark’s journey to healing is thanks to many things but his connection with Rick is just beautiful. I loved the care and growing love between Rick and Clark, and the Daddy aspects fit perfectly with both these characters. I loved their connection and how Rick was able to guide and help Clark heal. Along with families (new and old), love and help from Sean, Clark was able to move forward and challenge his negative self-talk to grow and heal.
While this is a fictional story it has many bases in truth and could be confronting to some, but I found it hopeful and healing. The semi-colon tattoo mentioned in this story is very real and I myself have a semi-colon tattoo.
I thought I’d share one of my stories… I’ve wanted this tattoo for a while and I chose this as a reminder to be present. Moments pass too quickly and if you’re not careful they can pass by. I have learned to focus on the present and try not to worry about what the future will bring and focus on the here and now and cherish the time I have here. As you may know, I suffer from mental health issues and continue to strive to change the stigma around mental illnesses. I follow @projsemicolon (on Instagram) and what it represents and know that my story isn’t over yet. The semicolon represents my continued story and is for myself, my family and all those survivors and sufferers of mental illnesses out there. You are stronger than you think you are. Take it moment by moment, be here now and fight for yourself as best you can. Stay strong, your story is not over ;
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON PROJECT SEMICOLON CHECK OUT THEIR WEBSITE: HTTPS://PROJECTSEMICOLON.COM
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
April 30, 2019
FR -Alors alors... alors je dois dire que j'étais plutôt partagée pour ce tome car si Lovestrong est une série que j'aime beaucoup, j'avais été légèrement déçue du tome précédent.
J'étais curieuse de découvrir l'histoire de Clark et Rick . Ce sont deux personnages qui m'intriguaient beaucoup et je dois dire que j'aime beaucoup ce que l'auteure a fait de ces personnages.
C'était mon premier roman avec du Daddy Kink et si je dois dire que ce n'est vraiment pas mon truc, j'ai quand même apprécié ce roman. L'auteure nous livre une fois de plus une histoire forte et intense, des personnages attachants et une romance très bien construite.
J'ai énormément aimé la relation entre Clark et Rick et ce qu'ils s'apportent l'un à l'autre. J'ai aimé retrouvé les personnages des tomes précédents et j'ai hâte de découvrir l'histoire de Gray.
Une fois encore Susan Hawke explore un nouveau pan de la sexualité et c'est vraiment quelque chose de récurrent dans cette série et de toujours très bien travaillé. J'aime qu'elle nous propose des choses fondamentalement différentes mais que même si cette intrigue là n'est pas notre tasse de thé, on se laisse porter par l'auteure et les personnages et on savoure toujours autant notre lecture.
Pour ma part, le daddy kink n'est vraiment pas pour moi, ce qui fait que ma note globale ne sera pas très haute mais ça ne change rien à la qualité de ce roman et de cette série en général.
Bravo à l'auteure pour la diversité des relations amoureuses qu'elle nous propose à chaque tome.
ENG - So well well I must say that I was rather divided for this volume because if Lovestrong is a series that I like a lot, I was slightly disappointed in the previous volume.
I was curious to discover the story of Clark and Rick. These are two characters who intrigued me a lot and I must say that I really like what the author has done these characters.
It was my first novel with Daddy Kink and if I must say it's really not my thing, I still enjoyed this novel. The author gives us once again a strong and intense story, endearing characters and a very well constructed romance.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Clark and Rick and what they bring to each other. I loved the characters from previous volumes and I can not wait to discover Gray's story.
Once again Susan Hawke is exploring a new side of sexuality and it's really something recurrent in this series and always worked very well. I like that it offers us fundamentally different things but even if this plot is not our cup of tea, we let ourselves be carried by the author and characters and we still enjoy our reading as much.
J'étais curieuse de découvrir l'histoire de Clark et Rick . Ce sont deux personnages qui m'intriguaient beaucoup et je dois dire que j'aime beaucoup ce que l'auteure a fait de ces personnages.
C'était mon premier roman avec du Daddy Kink et si je dois dire que ce n'est vraiment pas mon truc, j'ai quand même apprécié ce roman. L'auteure nous livre une fois de plus une histoire forte et intense, des personnages attachants et une romance très bien construite.
J'ai énormément aimé la relation entre Clark et Rick et ce qu'ils s'apportent l'un à l'autre. J'ai aimé retrouvé les personnages des tomes précédents et j'ai hâte de découvrir l'histoire de Gray.
Une fois encore Susan Hawke explore un nouveau pan de la sexualité et c'est vraiment quelque chose de récurrent dans cette série et de toujours très bien travaillé. J'aime qu'elle nous propose des choses fondamentalement différentes mais que même si cette intrigue là n'est pas notre tasse de thé, on se laisse porter par l'auteure et les personnages et on savoure toujours autant notre lecture.
Pour ma part, le daddy kink n'est vraiment pas pour moi, ce qui fait que ma note globale ne sera pas très haute mais ça ne change rien à la qualité de ce roman et de cette série en général.
Bravo à l'auteure pour la diversité des relations amoureuses qu'elle nous propose à chaque tome.
ENG - So well well I must say that I was rather divided for this volume because if Lovestrong is a series that I like a lot, I was slightly disappointed in the previous volume.
I was curious to discover the story of Clark and Rick. These are two characters who intrigued me a lot and I must say that I really like what the author has done these characters.
It was my first novel with Daddy Kink and if I must say it's really not my thing, I still enjoyed this novel. The author gives us once again a strong and intense story, endearing characters and a very well constructed romance.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Clark and Rick and what they bring to each other. I loved the characters from previous volumes and I can not wait to discover Gray's story.
Once again Susan Hawke is exploring a new side of sexuality and it's really something recurrent in this series and always worked very well. I like that it offers us fundamentally different things but even if this plot is not our cup of tea, we let ourselves be carried by the author and characters and we still enjoy our reading as much.
April 26, 2019
Underneath the BadBoy was a GoldenBoy!💖😇💖
I have loved this series from the beginning, and I love how the characters in this small town weave in and out of each other's lives. No matter how small the role in the story, each character stays with you.
This book centers around Clark, who was a bully and bad boy when he was a teenager. It earned him quite a reputation in his small town, and even though years have passed and Clark is now an adult who has paid for his crimes (literally), and tried for years to do good, he could never shake his reputation or that of his bigoted father.
So, even though Clark himself is out of the closet, he still has to deal with a community that neither likes nor trusts his actions much. This has left Clark with a bad attitude to match his reputation.
Enter local police officer, Jericho (which just happens to be the name of my youngest son - well done Susan Hawke!😁) Matthews. Known by most as Rick, is a loyal, take charge, and "get things done" kind of officer, who is constantly pulling Clark over for one traffic violation or other.
In a series of events where Rick and his new partner rescue Clark from certain tragedy, Rick inserts himself in a role in Clark's life to help Clark heal. Over time both Rick and Clark form a new relationship that helps meet needs that they both have.
Through this relationship, both men discover that in each other they may have found the one thing that has been missing in their lives. ✨🌈✨**sigh...
This book made me sigh and smile so much. Even through the moments that were sad I smiled. Even in those sad scenes sweet things were happening. I was so dang proud of Clark, I could have jumped through my kindle and kissed his sweet face. 💋 (totally a momma thang! 💖)
I loved this and highly recommend it! I recommend the whole bloomin' series!!! Just do it, peeps! Tell the characters, "Sharonica says hey, and I'll be back around soon!" 💞
Warnings- discussions/ signs of self harm (flagellation), elements of BDSM, Daddy/boy kink, lots of scrumptious MM action 😋
5 healing-love-stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I received a free copy of this book via LesCourt and am voluntarily leaving a review.💋
I have loved this series from the beginning, and I love how the characters in this small town weave in and out of each other's lives. No matter how small the role in the story, each character stays with you.
This book centers around Clark, who was a bully and bad boy when he was a teenager. It earned him quite a reputation in his small town, and even though years have passed and Clark is now an adult who has paid for his crimes (literally), and tried for years to do good, he could never shake his reputation or that of his bigoted father.
So, even though Clark himself is out of the closet, he still has to deal with a community that neither likes nor trusts his actions much. This has left Clark with a bad attitude to match his reputation.
Enter local police officer, Jericho (which just happens to be the name of my youngest son - well done Susan Hawke!😁) Matthews. Known by most as Rick, is a loyal, take charge, and "get things done" kind of officer, who is constantly pulling Clark over for one traffic violation or other.
In a series of events where Rick and his new partner rescue Clark from certain tragedy, Rick inserts himself in a role in Clark's life to help Clark heal. Over time both Rick and Clark form a new relationship that helps meet needs that they both have.
Through this relationship, both men discover that in each other they may have found the one thing that has been missing in their lives. ✨🌈✨**sigh...
This book made me sigh and smile so much. Even through the moments that were sad I smiled. Even in those sad scenes sweet things were happening. I was so dang proud of Clark, I could have jumped through my kindle and kissed his sweet face. 💋 (totally a momma thang! 💖)
I loved this and highly recommend it! I recommend the whole bloomin' series!!! Just do it, peeps! Tell the characters, "Sharonica says hey, and I'll be back around soon!" 💞
Warnings- discussions/ signs of self harm (flagellation), elements of BDSM, Daddy/boy kink, lots of scrumptious MM action 😋
5 healing-love-stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I received a free copy of this book via LesCourt and am voluntarily leaving a review.💋
April 22, 2019
How To Heal has the same great writing style and tone I love from the rest of Susan Hawke's Lovestrong series.
I love this book. There's always something special about a good Daddy romance, as well as a good May to December romance. Add them together, with the terrific writing of Susan Hawke, and it all adds up to be a whole lot of fun.
Clark may have been an ass when he was younger, but he's drowning in guilt, believing he needs to be punished. Rick has long hated the brat Clark, but when he finds Clark half dead, he feels compelled to help. I adore the way Rick takes to the younger man, realizing what Clark needs and feeling compelled to help him.
I love the nickname "curly bird." Absolutely love it, as it's both adorable and sweet, as I want to sigh everytime I Rick says it.
Their romance does a wonderful job exploring the difference between BDSM pain and a Daddy/boy relationship. As an avid fan of Daddy kink, I really enjoyed this one. The Daddy kink is wonderfully done, both meaningful, emotional, and hot. It's beautiful the way this Daddy/boy relationship helps calm, relax, and heal Clark. But even better is the way it also brings peace to Rick.
Oh, and it's hot. Very hot!
It's not always easy to redeem an awful character, but the author has excelled in doing just this. She expertly weaved a superb path for Clark to redeem himself. The author explores the struggle to forgive oneself. She also explores the struggle to find the freedom of letting go of the past and allowing oneself to live in the present.
How to Heal is a marvelous enemies to lovers story, as Susan Hawke impressively pens this tale of forgiving oneself and moving forward. This romance is romantic, tender, raw, and steamy. Don't miss this gem!
I love this book. There's always something special about a good Daddy romance, as well as a good May to December romance. Add them together, with the terrific writing of Susan Hawke, and it all adds up to be a whole lot of fun.
Clark may have been an ass when he was younger, but he's drowning in guilt, believing he needs to be punished. Rick has long hated the brat Clark, but when he finds Clark half dead, he feels compelled to help. I adore the way Rick takes to the younger man, realizing what Clark needs and feeling compelled to help him.
I love the nickname "curly bird." Absolutely love it, as it's both adorable and sweet, as I want to sigh everytime I Rick says it.
Their romance does a wonderful job exploring the difference between BDSM pain and a Daddy/boy relationship. As an avid fan of Daddy kink, I really enjoyed this one. The Daddy kink is wonderfully done, both meaningful, emotional, and hot. It's beautiful the way this Daddy/boy relationship helps calm, relax, and heal Clark. But even better is the way it also brings peace to Rick.
Oh, and it's hot. Very hot!
It's not always easy to redeem an awful character, but the author has excelled in doing just this. She expertly weaved a superb path for Clark to redeem himself. The author explores the struggle to forgive oneself. She also explores the struggle to find the freedom of letting go of the past and allowing oneself to live in the present.
How to Heal is a marvelous enemies to lovers story, as Susan Hawke impressively pens this tale of forgiving oneself and moving forward. This romance is romantic, tender, raw, and steamy. Don't miss this gem!
April 24, 2019
Powerful story of learning to forgive yourself and finding love. These MC's are well developed and you will find them both lovable. Both men find that they fit together in a special way and that their dynamics and needs help make them both whole. The story-line is engaging and the writing was beautiful. The story is sweet, has really funny moments and will definitely steam up your kindle.
i found my heart hurting for Clark in this book as we see behind the face he shows to the world and into the young man who is struggling to find peace and make up for his past mistakes. It is a heartfelt look into the broken pieces of a young man who was abused and while a teenager also became a abuser. This book picks up five years later and gives us look into how he is still paying penance for his actions. Some of the interactions really brought tears to my eyes and sorrow in my heart.
Clark and Rick's story is about healing, forgiveness, redemption and passion. The reading of it was not easy and fluffy, there are some really gritty scenes, however it is a great read.
This book could be read as a stand-alone, however it is part of the Lovestrong series and reading it as part of that series will be much more enjoyable. You will be introduced to many of the supporting characters of this story from the earlier books.
I was gifted this book from the LesCourt Author Services and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
i found my heart hurting for Clark in this book as we see behind the face he shows to the world and into the young man who is struggling to find peace and make up for his past mistakes. It is a heartfelt look into the broken pieces of a young man who was abused and while a teenager also became a abuser. This book picks up five years later and gives us look into how he is still paying penance for his actions. Some of the interactions really brought tears to my eyes and sorrow in my heart.
Clark and Rick's story is about healing, forgiveness, redemption and passion. The reading of it was not easy and fluffy, there are some really gritty scenes, however it is a great read.
This book could be read as a stand-alone, however it is part of the Lovestrong series and reading it as part of that series will be much more enjoyable. You will be introduced to many of the supporting characters of this story from the earlier books.
I was gifted this book from the LesCourt Author Services and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
September 18, 2020
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-
Away-book like
‘Jesse's Smile' or ‚Joey’ from Angelique Jurd,
‘Save the kids' series from EM Leya,
‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or
'Liberty' from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a
WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises
(like most of Andrew Grey books and
Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few
times a year (most romances where you can
enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader,
maybe 2-3 times a year. It’s like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-
reader (i wouldn't recommend it heartily, but
it was ok). It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too
many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an
absolut NO-GO). It's like failure in the whole
line, dismissed, repeat the class
To my ratings:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-
Away-book like
‘Jesse's Smile' or ‚Joey’ from Angelique Jurd,
‘Save the kids' series from EM Leya,
‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or
'Liberty' from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a
WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises
(like most of Andrew Grey books and
Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few
times a year (most romances where you can
enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader,
maybe 2-3 times a year. It’s like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-
reader (i wouldn't recommend it heartily, but
it was ok). It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too
many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an
absolut NO-GO). It's like failure in the whole
line, dismissed, repeat the class
April 16, 2019
Brilliant book, as expected by now of both this author and this series. I’m so glad Clark got his redemption story, and I’ve got to admit I wasn’t a fan of Rick from his interactions with Shaw so in some ways this book redeemed both for me.
Clark, as the perceptive reader of How Not To Sin kinda knows, has huge remorse going on for the actions of his teenage years. Free from the influence of his frankly disgusting father, he’s trying to be an adult at 21 whilst still carrying a lot of self-blame. Rick, somewhat black-and-White thinker that he is, sees Clark only as the kid he pulls over for speeding every so often. Until Clark nearly dies in a motel room (no spoilers so I’m not telling), and Rick feels the pull to take care of him.
I love how these characters become real, rounded people after being bit parts in earlier books. Although I can’t decide if I love their mum’s even more, both great characters in their own right. This story brings up a lot in terms of self-blame and learning to let go of the past, and of control. It’s deep but sweet at the same time, and will be on my reread list.
Could be read as a stand alone but I definitely recommend reading these as a series. Enjoy.
Clark, as the perceptive reader of How Not To Sin kinda knows, has huge remorse going on for the actions of his teenage years. Free from the influence of his frankly disgusting father, he’s trying to be an adult at 21 whilst still carrying a lot of self-blame. Rick, somewhat black-and-White thinker that he is, sees Clark only as the kid he pulls over for speeding every so often. Until Clark nearly dies in a motel room (no spoilers so I’m not telling), and Rick feels the pull to take care of him.
I love how these characters become real, rounded people after being bit parts in earlier books. Although I can’t decide if I love their mum’s even more, both great characters in their own right. This story brings up a lot in terms of self-blame and learning to let go of the past, and of control. It’s deep but sweet at the same time, and will be on my reread list.
Could be read as a stand alone but I definitely recommend reading these as a series. Enjoy.
April 25, 2019
I loved this book so much and Clark and Rick are my new favorite couple so far in this amazing and inspirational series. How to Heal is beautifully written, intense, emotional, heartbreakingly sad, gritty, sweet, full of hope, shows redemption is always a possibility, deals very well with some difficult issues, the daddy/boy kink is well represented, I love the storyline and the characters are awesome. Clark has had to deal with a lot in his short life and his story began in the previous books when he committed a heinous crime at the age of fifteen. He has tried to find redemption ever since and he chooses a very unhealthy way to try to make up for what he did. Rick is the perfect daddy to help Clark deal with his past choices and his encouragement and guidance is exactly what Clark needs. They both have a lot to learn about each other and being in a relationship that includes the daddy/boy dynamic. It is great to catch up with several of the previous couples and Seth plays a prominent role in helping Clark. I also loved getting to know Rick's family and I hope to see more of his brothers as this incredible series continues.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
April 29, 2019
Out of a series that I have really enjoyed reading and that has really affected me, both by making me laugh and cry, this is the best book.
Clark's story absolutely ripped me apart in the very best way. I never really disliked Clark when we saw him at first. I mean, I didn't necessarily like him, and he made some really crappy choices, but he was in so much pain and he was so confused. It's not any kind of excuse for his behavior, but it is a reason behind it. He's done everything he can to atone for it though.
Clark really seems like he has everything together right now, but he really doesn't. And Rick finds him at a time when he really doesn't have anything together at all.
Honestly, my heart broke for Clark. He was trying to do what he thought was right, but he was still so caught and still in so much pain. I felt so much for him. I think that he's a good man, and he's tried so hard to learn to be a better man than he was. I really admire him for that.
I can't wait to see where Susan Hawke is going to go with this one, and I really hope we get Grayson's story at some point.
Clark's story absolutely ripped me apart in the very best way. I never really disliked Clark when we saw him at first. I mean, I didn't necessarily like him, and he made some really crappy choices, but he was in so much pain and he was so confused. It's not any kind of excuse for his behavior, but it is a reason behind it. He's done everything he can to atone for it though.
Clark really seems like he has everything together right now, but he really doesn't. And Rick finds him at a time when he really doesn't have anything together at all.
Honestly, my heart broke for Clark. He was trying to do what he thought was right, but he was still so caught and still in so much pain. I felt so much for him. I think that he's a good man, and he's tried so hard to learn to be a better man than he was. I really admire him for that.
I can't wait to see where Susan Hawke is going to go with this one, and I really hope we get Grayson's story at some point.
September 3, 2019
There are many tough topics in this book like self-harm, bullying, and abuse. But that isn’t what this is about. Thank goodness! I could read Clark’s journey without plummeting into a dark place because we get enough info for background and don’t have to live it.
So we catch Clark at the pivotal moment and I didn’t really like him. Mmm, not at all so I was looking forward to him suffering a bit. For what? I don’t know and I feel bad about that. And that’s why this story is special.
Clark is complicated and an ass but so brave. So, so brave. He just needed someone to reach out to him as a person. It’s so awesome to read a story about healing/hurt/comfort that isn’t a sob fest. I went through some emotions, for sure. But really? There is an underlying current of optimism that kept me rooting for Clark. And age gap/daddy kink? Definitely hot.
So now I’m hooked. This book can be read as a stand-alone and out of order. I’m so intrigued by the cast of characters that I Just picked up book one!
So we catch Clark at the pivotal moment and I didn’t really like him. Mmm, not at all so I was looking forward to him suffering a bit. For what? I don’t know and I feel bad about that. And that’s why this story is special.
Clark is complicated and an ass but so brave. So, so brave. He just needed someone to reach out to him as a person. It’s so awesome to read a story about healing/hurt/comfort that isn’t a sob fest. I went through some emotions, for sure. But really? There is an underlying current of optimism that kept me rooting for Clark. And age gap/daddy kink? Definitely hot.
So now I’m hooked. This book can be read as a stand-alone and out of order. I’m so intrigued by the cast of characters that I Just picked up book one!
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