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Heroes of River Falls #1
Guarded Souls
I had one job.
One job.
And I blew it.
Detectives are trained to handle everything that comes across their desk—everything, that is, except the brutal death of your partner. We were brothers long before we were brothers-in-arms, and when we buried him, I buried a piece of my soul right along with him.
I wasn’t looking for a fresh start. Especially not back in River Falls.
Until I meet her.
The girl next door.
Aubrey Daniels is a thorn in my side, but she could be the one thing that could put my soul back together…if I don’t let my demons get in the way.
But there’s a predator on the loose, and they will stop at nothing to get her. They want her, but they can’t have her. I was assigned to keep her safe, and if I don’t find whoever it is soon, it might be too late.
One job.
And I blew it.
Detectives are trained to handle everything that comes across their desk—everything, that is, except the brutal death of your partner. We were brothers long before we were brothers-in-arms, and when we buried him, I buried a piece of my soul right along with him.
I wasn’t looking for a fresh start. Especially not back in River Falls.
Until I meet her.
The girl next door.
Aubrey Daniels is a thorn in my side, but she could be the one thing that could put my soul back together…if I don’t let my demons get in the way.
But there’s a predator on the loose, and they will stop at nothing to get her. They want her, but they can’t have her. I was assigned to keep her safe, and if I don’t find whoever it is soon, it might be too late.
348 pages, Paperback
Published April 29, 2021
15 people are currently reading
337 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Carol
18 books242 followersHello fellow readers, my name is Amanda. I’m a multi-genre author, and reader, living in Maryland with my 11-year-old Yorkie Raven. When I’m not writing, I’m a homebody who likes to go out on small adventures. Traveling to new places and seeing new things lets me bring some realism to the experiences of my characters.
I published my first novel in July 2019, but writing has always been a creative outlet for me. I love creating different characters and then throwing them into situations and seeing how they react. Doing this resulted in my paranormal series full of wolf shifters, vampires, and witches, my currently in progress contemporary series about first responders, random short stories, and even a horror movie script when I was in 8th Grade, and I don’t even like horror movies! When I sit down to write, I have a general idea of what’s going to happen but it’s as much a surprise to me as it is to you where the road will take them, and it’s always a roller coaster of emotions.
I published my first novel in July 2019, but writing has always been a creative outlet for me. I love creating different characters and then throwing them into situations and seeing how they react. Doing this resulted in my paranormal series full of wolf shifters, vampires, and witches, my currently in progress contemporary series about first responders, random short stories, and even a horror movie script when I was in 8th Grade, and I don’t even like horror movies! When I sit down to write, I have a general idea of what’s going to happen but it’s as much a surprise to me as it is to you where the road will take them, and it’s always a roller coaster of emotions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 25, 2022
4 💘💔💘💘🌟🌟🌟🌟s❣️
An intriguing suspenseful romance read that had me invested throughout the story.
Dean and Aubrey, two beautiful souls yet very tortured.
Dean was a detective who had lost his childhood and best friend Wyatt on duty and was trying to cope really hard.
Aubrey had lost her parents when she was 5 y.o. and at 17 was abused by her sob ex boyfriend - Ray who was charged with attempted second degree murder.
Both characters had experienced loss and pain and each one was handling them dissimilarly.
Regardless the heartbreaking times in their journey, it was so beautiful!!
Enemies to lovers, slow burn that fitted perfectly into this story, wonderful writing and development. The plot was filled with suspense, angst, emotions, great moments and romance!
The relationships among the amazing characters that appeared in this part were strong and solid and I am anticipating for their stories to be released!!
An intriguing suspenseful romance read that had me invested throughout the story.
Dean and Aubrey, two beautiful souls yet very tortured.
Dean was a detective who had lost his childhood and best friend Wyatt on duty and was trying to cope really hard.
Aubrey had lost her parents when she was 5 y.o. and at 17 was abused by her sob ex boyfriend - Ray who was charged with attempted second degree murder.
Both characters had experienced loss and pain and each one was handling them dissimilarly.
Regardless the heartbreaking times in their journey, it was so beautiful!!
Enemies to lovers, slow burn that fitted perfectly into this story, wonderful writing and development. The plot was filled with suspense, angst, emotions, great moments and romance!
The relationships among the amazing characters that appeared in this part were strong and solid and I am anticipating for their stories to be released!!
May 27, 2022
What a great read!
I loved this book! It’s probably the best romantic suspense I’ve read in a long time. And of course, I have to thank my friend Dora for her review because that’s the reason I add it to my tbr. 💖
It’s not a light read by any means and it’s so well written that I couldn’t put it down (guess who’s behind on uni work 🤡). I loved the characters, both main and side ones, and the story that is full of suspense and plot twists.
My only problem was that the romance was slow burn. I do like slow burn now and I get why their relationship developed so slowly but they had such great banter and chemistry that made me want to see more of them together.
I’ll definitely read the next book in the series (probably soon because I loved this one so much). It could be a 5-star read for me if it wasn’t for the slow burn. 4 ⭐
April 9, 2021
If you are looking for a book with all the feels imaginable then look no further!!! Guarded Souls is it!!!!
This storyline is so very different to the PNR that Amanda Carol has written before but she certainly has grabbed the bull by the proverbials and dived straight into an enemies to lover trope.
This book has it all. It’s got angst, it’s full of sass, it has its trigger warnings, it’s emotive, it’s graphic, its gut wrenching, it’s ballsy. That’s what it is!!! Ballsy!!!
This is a whole new world about to open up in River Falls. Two main characters that each have their problems. A heroine, full of grit that has tried to not let her past define her. A hero, defeated by his past but fighting to not let himself be defined by it.
A complete surround of outlying characters that are shouting, screaming to be written about in their own right.
River Falls’ deep current has already sucked me in from book 1. I can’t wait to see what follows for its other residents.
Take a bow Amanda Carol. I floved this book!!!!
This storyline is so very different to the PNR that Amanda Carol has written before but she certainly has grabbed the bull by the proverbials and dived straight into an enemies to lover trope.
This book has it all. It’s got angst, it’s full of sass, it has its trigger warnings, it’s emotive, it’s graphic, its gut wrenching, it’s ballsy. That’s what it is!!! Ballsy!!!
This is a whole new world about to open up in River Falls. Two main characters that each have their problems. A heroine, full of grit that has tried to not let her past define her. A hero, defeated by his past but fighting to not let himself be defined by it.
A complete surround of outlying characters that are shouting, screaming to be written about in their own right.
River Falls’ deep current has already sucked me in from book 1. I can’t wait to see what follows for its other residents.
Take a bow Amanda Carol. I floved this book!!!!
April 13, 2021
This story kept me on edge!
Ever since we got a glimpse of Dean and Aubrey on Ruined Promises by Stefanie Jenkins, I wanted their story (if you haven’t read it, you should totally do). I mean, I had wanted it for a while but seeing them in that story only intensified my excitement more!
Oh Dean 🥺 he was such a broken soul. 💔😭
Carrying so much guilt and losing himself to the darkness! Aubrey was the light he need it to guide him out of it!
Aubrey’s character is so sweet! Such a young age and having gone through of all that?!! 💔
And damn you Amanda..... 😭😭😭 just why? That scene keeps playing on my mind on a loop..... 💔😭😭😭😭😭
Cannot wait for the rest of the stories in this series!
I received an ARC copy of the story and this is my voluntary review.
Ever since we got a glimpse of Dean and Aubrey on Ruined Promises by Stefanie Jenkins, I wanted their story (if you haven’t read it, you should totally do). I mean, I had wanted it for a while but seeing them in that story only intensified my excitement more!
Oh Dean 🥺 he was such a broken soul. 💔😭
Carrying so much guilt and losing himself to the darkness! Aubrey was the light he need it to guide him out of it!
Aubrey’s character is so sweet! Such a young age and having gone through of all that?!! 💔
And damn you Amanda..... 😭😭😭 just why? That scene keeps playing on my mind on a loop..... 💔😭😭😭😭😭
Cannot wait for the rest of the stories in this series!
I received an ARC copy of the story and this is my voluntary review.
March 5, 2022
Guarded Souls, by the incomparable Amanda Carol, is exactly what I needed to get out of my reading funk. The story was mesmerizing and packed with suspense, the writing was so well done—every word seemed to flow effortlessly, and the emotions that I experiences throughout this book sent me on a roller coaster 🎢 I did not want to get off any time soon! I’m so sad it’s over—I really loved Aubrey and Dean!
The positive is that this book is a part of a Heroes series where in each book we’ll get a different first responder story.
If you like shows like 9-1-1 or Chicago Fire/Med/PD, then you will love this book!!
The story is about Aubrey being hunted down by a stalker (Ray) who is set out to “take back” Aubrey. While the police are investigating and trying to find Ray, Aubrey is safe at a safe-home with her next door neighbor/police officer, Dean. Overtime, these enemies to lovers end up stealing my heart!
Characters I loved: MANNY!!!! We need more Manny. Can I get an AMEN!?! I also really enjoyed the girlfriend group too—Cassie, Sophia, Etc. And of course I loved Aubrey and Dean.
The romance between Aubrey and Dean was perfection! And omg that ending. I can’t!!! I can’t!! Ahh! Such a good happy ending! A twist I didn’t see happening made me feel so good inside!
Overall, this was a fun, sexy, suspenseful romance read and I really enjoyed it!!
Finally—before I go—if you are easily bothered by domestic violence or the thought of abuse, this book may not be for you. HOWEVER, I saw someone else’s review saying they weren’t warned enough. Well, Amanda Carol not only wrote out a specific page for trigger warnings, but she also put a hotline to contact if they were triggered during the book. It’s hard stuff to read, but Amanda Carol does an excellent job at maintaining authenticity of domestic/relationship abuse and I feel as if she does this very hot button topic justice—she does a good job showing us that men who hit women have not only small dicks, but are gross human beings too. Oops, did I say that!?? 🤬 but anyway, yeah, there are lots of warning signs and trigger warnings that Amanda makes well known.
Can’t wait for Book 2!!!
The positive is that this book is a part of a Heroes series where in each book we’ll get a different first responder story.
If you like shows like 9-1-1 or Chicago Fire/Med/PD, then you will love this book!!
The story is about Aubrey being hunted down by a stalker (Ray) who is set out to “take back” Aubrey. While the police are investigating and trying to find Ray, Aubrey is safe at a safe-home with her next door neighbor/police officer, Dean. Overtime, these enemies to lovers end up stealing my heart!
Characters I loved: MANNY!!!! We need more Manny. Can I get an AMEN!?! I also really enjoyed the girlfriend group too—Cassie, Sophia, Etc. And of course I loved Aubrey and Dean.
The romance between Aubrey and Dean was perfection! And omg that ending. I can’t!!! I can’t!! Ahh! Such a good happy ending! A twist I didn’t see happening made me feel so good inside!
Overall, this was a fun, sexy, suspenseful romance read and I really enjoyed it!!
Finally—before I go—if you are easily bothered by domestic violence or the thought of abuse, this book may not be for you. HOWEVER, I saw someone else’s review saying they weren’t warned enough. Well, Amanda Carol not only wrote out a specific page for trigger warnings, but she also put a hotline to contact if they were triggered during the book. It’s hard stuff to read, but Amanda Carol does an excellent job at maintaining authenticity of domestic/relationship abuse and I feel as if she does this very hot button topic justice—she does a good job showing us that men who hit women have not only small dicks, but are gross human beings too. Oops, did I say that!?? 🤬 but anyway, yeah, there are lots of warning signs and trigger warnings that Amanda makes well known.
Can’t wait for Book 2!!!
April 21, 2021
This was so cute but also suspenseful and emotional; loved it!
Aubrey and Dean have both had a tough past and it has shaped them into the people they are now. I love Aubrey's sassiness and Dean's protectiveness, and together they are pretty epic!
Yes I know I said this book is so cute but that's not all it is because damn, it's also hot. The little touches people, the little touches. I absolutely love when books have that tension, even more so when it's enemies to lovers like this one, and where the characters have these little moments that make them want more even when they try to deny it, and Amanda Carol definitely does it so well. This is a slow burn for sure and it just made it so much more exciting!
The chemistry between Dean and Aubrey is amazing, you can truly feel it. I love how both help each other to heal and find peace in the things that they are either afraid of or guilty about. They challenge each other and bring the best in each other, and I love it.
This also has twists and there's this intensity as someone is after Aubrey and won't stop until they get to her, it definitely kept me on the edge of my seat. I don't want to say too much but I loved the intensity of it all. I also just love how this balances between being light-hearted and emotional but definitely more into the emotional side, and my heart just broke for everything they endured.
Guarded Souls is sweet, touching and I loved it!
"You've seen the worst of me and grew to love me in spite of my demons. No one should have ever loved me the way you did. You loved me through it all, and I plan on cherishing you for the rest of my life."
*I received this ARC via TheHattersAuthorSurvices, but the thoughts are completely my own.*
Aubrey and Dean have both had a tough past and it has shaped them into the people they are now. I love Aubrey's sassiness and Dean's protectiveness, and together they are pretty epic!
Yes I know I said this book is so cute but that's not all it is because damn, it's also hot. The little touches people, the little touches. I absolutely love when books have that tension, even more so when it's enemies to lovers like this one, and where the characters have these little moments that make them want more even when they try to deny it, and Amanda Carol definitely does it so well. This is a slow burn for sure and it just made it so much more exciting!
The chemistry between Dean and Aubrey is amazing, you can truly feel it. I love how both help each other to heal and find peace in the things that they are either afraid of or guilty about. They challenge each other and bring the best in each other, and I love it.
This also has twists and there's this intensity as someone is after Aubrey and won't stop until they get to her, it definitely kept me on the edge of my seat. I don't want to say too much but I loved the intensity of it all. I also just love how this balances between being light-hearted and emotional but definitely more into the emotional side, and my heart just broke for everything they endured.
Guarded Souls is sweet, touching and I loved it!
"You've seen the worst of me and grew to love me in spite of my demons. No one should have ever loved me the way you did. You loved me through it all, and I plan on cherishing you for the rest of my life."
*I received this ARC via TheHattersAuthorSurvices, but the thoughts are completely my own.*
April 23, 2021
Guarded Souls is the first book in the new series (Heroes of River Falls) by Amanda Carol and man did she deliver!
This book has ALL the Feels!
There are trigger warnings before you start to read the book for those that might need it (I always appreciate when authors consider their audience by including these).
This book has some dark elements but it also has a beautiful mix of hope, new beginnings, love and so much more. The plot is well thought out and doesn't drag. The characters are realistic and wonderfully human (perfectly imperfect) so they have flaws, damage and character growth.
Once I started I couldn't put it down until I finished it.
This book has ALL the Feels!
There are trigger warnings before you start to read the book for those that might need it (I always appreciate when authors consider their audience by including these).
This book has some dark elements but it also has a beautiful mix of hope, new beginnings, love and so much more. The plot is well thought out and doesn't drag. The characters are realistic and wonderfully human (perfectly imperfect) so they have flaws, damage and character growth.
Once I started I couldn't put it down until I finished it.
April 19, 2021
My heart completely broke for Dean and everything he is going through. He has the weight of the world on his shoulders and blames himself for everything that happened. His story is gut wrenching and hurts my heart. Aubrey on the other hand having been through just as much pain and trauma is still such a sweet heart and a beacon of shining light which is exactly what Dean needed in his life he just didn’t know it. Aubrey is Dean’s light to his darkness and she is everything he needs to make him start to feel and live again. I loved all of the characters in this story from our main characters to all of the side characters Aubrey’s BFFs are goals plus all the other guys. This was such a great start to a new series and I can’t wait got the next one.
April 13, 2021
What an amazing start for this new series by the talented Amanda Carol. This book was everything I was expecting and so much more.
The plot, the characters, the side characters , everything was perfection. (trust me I'm not exaggerating ).
Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. The story is so good. This book has absolutely all. From slow burn, enemy to lovers, friendship, mystery, action, suspense, romance and the most beautiful surprise ever.
Dean and Aubrey were amazing together, from the sassy comments to each other, to the hate/love relationship, to a deeply understanding of one another. They were just able to get one another filling the empty whole they had before they met.
Both of them had very hard and sad stories in their past. And let me tell you without spoiling the story I cried more than once. I truly felt for this characters.
I can't wait for the next book in this series, I'm completely hook now.
April 24, 2021
I've mentioned a whole bunch how I love enemies to lovers books. I've also mentioned that I love a survivor story. And a forced proximity story... Seriously, this book is all of that and more!
Amanda Carol wrote one of my favourite PNR series with The Awakened Trilogy and while I am DYING to have more books in that world ( #TeamBennettNeedsLoveToo ) I am overjoyed to have something new from her to read!
Guarded Souls is the first in her new Heroes of River Falls series. It's a story about a grumpy detective who's grieving the loss of his partner and best friend becoming the one thing that stands between a sweet, kindhearted yet sassy photographer and her stalker ex boyfriend who's hell bent on making her pay for putting his abusive ass behind bars. Welcome to the town of River Falls, the home of Aubrey Daniels and Dean Holden, and the place where they met and proceeded to be put through the wringer to fall in love.
Sounds like one HELLUVA romantic suspense doesn't it? Right?!?!
And who doesn't love a romantic suspense with a first responder as the hero? It can't be just me, seriously!
Seriously, these two! There's banter, but there's also a connection and a bond because they've both experienced the pain of loss and what it means to be the one left to live on through a traumatic experience. I swear, I wanted to wrap Dean up in blankets (there were a few moments for Aubrey too) which should tell you just how much feeling there is in this story. There's just something about the heartache that I like.
Aubrey's history is full of pain and heartache while for Dean, that's what his more recent past has been like. Everyone deals with grief in different ways and that point is hammered home with the difference in the ways Aubrey and Dean handle their respective grief at the monumental losses they've faced. This story is raw, it is very real, and the relationship between the grumpy, hurting, asshole detective and the sweet and kind photographer is one that I have absolutely fallen in love with!
It's the perfect mix of romance and suspense, and the characters feel real and welcoming and just suck you into their world. I swear, I loved the roller coaster ride for my emotions. Please take the trigger warnings to heart, there are moments that are just absolutely gut wrenching. Chapter 21 - I dare you to not sob!!! Absolute GUT PUNCH right in the feels!
I could wax poetic about Guarded Souls all day, but I want you to read it not just read about other people reading it! Sooo…
Let me leave you with some of my...
Favourite Lines -
Yes… I am going to say what I always say now but I swear with everything that I am that I MEAN IT. RUN, don't walk I need you to RUN -
And one-click this baby today! You're going to fall in love with Aubrey and Dean and be demanding the rest of the series because I know I am demanding the hinted at Saving Grace couple's story (*cough, cough* Is that Cassie and Dylan I spy? *cough, cough*). And if we all beg loud enough, maybe she'll have them ready for us faster. I don't like waiting…
I promise you, you will not regret picking this one up and tucking in with it!
Amanda Carol wrote one of my favourite PNR series with The Awakened Trilogy and while I am DYING to have more books in that world ( #TeamBennettNeedsLoveToo ) I am overjoyed to have something new from her to read!
Guarded Souls is the first in her new Heroes of River Falls series. It's a story about a grumpy detective who's grieving the loss of his partner and best friend becoming the one thing that stands between a sweet, kindhearted yet sassy photographer and her stalker ex boyfriend who's hell bent on making her pay for putting his abusive ass behind bars. Welcome to the town of River Falls, the home of Aubrey Daniels and Dean Holden, and the place where they met and proceeded to be put through the wringer to fall in love.
Sounds like one HELLUVA romantic suspense doesn't it? Right?!?!
And who doesn't love a romantic suspense with a first responder as the hero? It can't be just me, seriously!
I caught a glimpse of the Gentleman Jack bottle he was looking at. I turned my head to look at him, and my breath hitched at how close we were. I could see a dusting of freckles on his nose, and his dark green eyes narrowed in on my face.
“I wouldn’t recommend the Gentleman for you—it’s way too classy,” I whispered low enough so no one else but Dean would hear. “Why don’t you try Fireball? It’s cheap, and it’s something you’ll regret in the morning.”
He leaned in closer, a smirk forming on his full lips. “It sounds like you know that from experience.”
With our gazes locked, he pulled the bottle of Gentleman Jack off the shelf, then left.
Seriously, these two! There's banter, but there's also a connection and a bond because they've both experienced the pain of loss and what it means to be the one left to live on through a traumatic experience. I swear, I wanted to wrap Dean up in blankets (there were a few moments for Aubrey too) which should tell you just how much feeling there is in this story. There's just something about the heartache that I like.
Aubrey's history is full of pain and heartache while for Dean, that's what his more recent past has been like. Everyone deals with grief in different ways and that point is hammered home with the difference in the ways Aubrey and Dean handle their respective grief at the monumental losses they've faced. This story is raw, it is very real, and the relationship between the grumpy, hurting, asshole detective and the sweet and kind photographer is one that I have absolutely fallen in love with!
It's the perfect mix of romance and suspense, and the characters feel real and welcoming and just suck you into their world. I swear, I loved the roller coaster ride for my emotions. Please take the trigger warnings to heart, there are moments that are just absolutely gut wrenching. Chapter 21 - I dare you to not sob!!! Absolute GUT PUNCH right in the feels!
I could wax poetic about Guarded Souls all day, but I want you to read it not just read about other people reading it! Sooo…
Let me leave you with some of my...
Favourite Lines -
There was something about her that when she opened her mouth, she didn’t give a shit what I’d been through; she would give it right back to me. She gave what she took, and if I wasn’t careful, she could take all of me.
“You know, if you took a picture it would last longer.” His husky voice brought me to my senses.
“I’d love to,” I quipped back. “Then I’d have something to remind myself that you can keep your mouth shut."
“Will somebody please explain what’s going on?” I commanded, and Aubrey narrowed her eyes on me.
“What’s going on is none of your damn business.”
I jerked back. Usually, this was the other way around. The way she would meet me tit for tat was becoming a bit of foreplay for me.
Dean was only wearing a button-down flannel with the sleeves rolled up. I guessed his muscles kept him warm, or his hatred for the world—it was anyone’s best guess.
I looked at her, and damn did a part of me want to wrap my arms around her. The more time I spent with her, the more my walls started to crack. I needed to plaster that shit up now. I could hear Wyatt now.
You’d be an idiot to let this one go.
Well, sorry pal. I had to let her go. I would be poison to her, never allowing her to blossom.
I never thought that I would be hiding in shadows until the sun came up ever again.
I felt the corners of my lips tip up, and her mouth gaped open.
“Is that a smile?” She lifted a brow.
“No.”
“Oh my gosh. Is the Dean Holden smiling? Hell must have frozen over.” Aubrey chuckled, and I couldn’t help but smirk. She lifted her camera and snapped a picture, then glanced down at the screen. She stopped laughing, but her smile stayed as she looked up at me.
“You should smile more often. It suits you.”
I was scared. I was scared of never seeing my friends again. I was scared of being away from home, my safe haven. I was scared of falling in love with someone who had the potential to break my heart. I was scared to let down the people I loved…I was scared of Ray finding me.
I’m scared of dying.
His kiss was intoxicating, bourbon and mint, my new favorite flavor.
Sinking down onto the floor, I came to one realization that rocked me to my core.
I had finally surrendered myself to Dean Holden, and there was no coming back.
Kissing Aubrey was like breathing in fresh air after a night of rain. I had forgotten all the pain and the grief as my mouth moved against hers. I gave in to temptation, and I would sell my soul to the devil if it meant getting to taste her just one more time.
If kissing Dean meant giving in to temptation and possibly damnation, then let me be damned.
“You know, if you take a picture, it’ll last longer,” he said, but I could hear the playful tone in his voice. The last time he said this to me, we were not on great terms.
I smiled. “Don’t tempt me with a good time, Holden.”
“C’mon, Holden, crack a smile for once in your life,” she joked, and I grimaced. “A real smile.”
“I am smiling,” I said through my teeth, half-amused, half-annoyed.
“No. You look like you have a stick up your ass.”
I shot her a look, and I heard the distinct click of her camera going off.
Her first and only experience was with someone who didn’t cherish her. He used and abused her. That’s not a man. A man knows the real value of a woman—that was why Aubrey would never be “mine.” She belonged to no one but herself, and I counted my lucky stars that this woman trusted me enough to allow me to cherish her in all the ways he never did.
She’s my partner. My best friend. My equal.
She wasn’t a possession and never would be when she chose to be with me.
Yes… I am going to say what I always say now but I swear with everything that I am that I MEAN IT. RUN, don't walk I need you to RUN -
And one-click this baby today! You're going to fall in love with Aubrey and Dean and be demanding the rest of the series because I know I am demanding the hinted at Saving Grace couple's story (*cough, cough* Is that Cassie and Dylan I spy? *cough, cough*). And if we all beg loud enough, maybe she'll have them ready for us faster. I don't like waiting…
I promise you, you will not regret picking this one up and tucking in with it!
April 13, 2021
I loved this book so much! It reminded me of the beauty and the beast. The grumpy cop and the sweet happy photographer but there’s a twist! It’s got some dark scenes of domestic violence from the past. It’s got all the feels. I totally shed some tears but also smiled a lot too. It was well written and I’m excited to see what this author comes up with next!
April 25, 2021
Guarded Souls by Amanda Carol is book 1 in the Heroes of River Falls Series. Dean Holden, a detective, is dealing with the loss of his best friend, partner, and brother. He blames himself for his partner’s death and struggles to get close to others in order to protect his heart and because he fears he won’t be able to protect them. Aubrey Daniels is a sweet, yet sassy photographer who struggles with love because of her past which includes the death of her parents and a stalker ex who made her feel worthless and incapable of being loved. Dean and Aubrey meet and their first interaction is not at all pleasant. These two are broken souls trying to live their life one day at a time. When Aubrey’s stalker ex is released from prison and makes it his mission to get back at Aubrey for putting her in prison, Dean and Aubrey are forced to hide together in a remote location.
I loved these two. Their banter was amazing. These two are two sides of the same coin, both in pain dealing with heartbreak, yet hesitant to open their hearts. They don’t even realize when the other makes their way into their heart. The enemies to lovers development of their relationship is one of my favorite parts. I loved how emotional this book was. There were many moments I cried. Anytime Dean discussed the death of his partner and the life he wouldn’t be able to live I was bawling because of the emotion.
Guarded Souls is a fabulous mix of romance and suspense. It was addicting and I read it in one sitting! The characters were flawed and relatable. Amanda Carol has done an outstanding job showing how people deal with grief differently. I loved the side characters too and I really hope Dylan and Cassie get a book because I really want to know what happens with them!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved these two. Their banter was amazing. These two are two sides of the same coin, both in pain dealing with heartbreak, yet hesitant to open their hearts. They don’t even realize when the other makes their way into their heart. The enemies to lovers development of their relationship is one of my favorite parts. I loved how emotional this book was. There were many moments I cried. Anytime Dean discussed the death of his partner and the life he wouldn’t be able to live I was bawling because of the emotion.
Guarded Souls is a fabulous mix of romance and suspense. It was addicting and I read it in one sitting! The characters were flawed and relatable. Amanda Carol has done an outstanding job showing how people deal with grief differently. I loved the side characters too and I really hope Dylan and Cassie get a book because I really want to know what happens with them!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 19, 2021
I throughly enjoyed this read! It kept me on edge. I was constantly in a feeling of suspense, always wondering what was going to happen next.
Aubrey and Dean... Oh these precious babies. They are both two individuals that are dealing with trauma and grief. I'm a total sucker for two broken souls finding one another and healing together. Now besides that... the sexual tension between these two drove me crazy in the best way. I kept asking when will you two just give in!?
I definitely recommend if you love romance, slow burns, spice, and suspense. Also if you enjoy having some feels.
Trigger warnings include domestic violence.
Thanks to the author for the ARC. This is my honest review.
Aubrey and Dean... Oh these precious babies. They are both two individuals that are dealing with trauma and grief. I'm a total sucker for two broken souls finding one another and healing together. Now besides that... the sexual tension between these two drove me crazy in the best way. I kept asking when will you two just give in!?
I definitely recommend if you love romance, slow burns, spice, and suspense. Also if you enjoy having some feels.
Trigger warnings include domestic violence.
Thanks to the author for the ARC. This is my honest review.
May 7, 2021
This is the first book that I have read by this author but it wont be my last. This story gripped me from the very start and held my emotions in a vice the whole way through and once I started reading it I couldn't put it down.
This is a Heroes of River Falls book #1 and I really cant wait to read the next story in line because this is a fantastic way to start a new series.
Aubrey is a beautiful, strong independent woman that has been through a lot with her ex who is now is prison after what he did to her. She lost her parents at a young age and loves her Nanna and love photography and just when she thinks her life is where it should b e she has a curve ball thrown at her and it shakes up her whole life. Detective Dean is a very tortured soul and he is carrying around a lot of guilt and thinks he doesn't deserve to be happy even when it is right in his life he pushes it away. These tow souls need each other more than either if them care to admit.
This book has it all the drama, the suspense, the steam and the twists and turns that this book throws out is captivating. I loved how this author has written both of these characters and how she has brought them both to life and made them realistic to the reader and after everything that they have both been through I was really rooting for them both. This enemies to lovers story flows throughout and I really enjoyed reading it and I cant wait for the next story in line, I highly recommend this book.
#GuardedSouls #AmandaCarol #heroesofriverfalls #romanticsuspense #readromance #triggers #bookblogger #ReviewsHelpAuthors #booklover #bookseries #book1 #bookreview
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This is a Heroes of River Falls book #1 and I really cant wait to read the next story in line because this is a fantastic way to start a new series.
Aubrey is a beautiful, strong independent woman that has been through a lot with her ex who is now is prison after what he did to her. She lost her parents at a young age and loves her Nanna and love photography and just when she thinks her life is where it should b e she has a curve ball thrown at her and it shakes up her whole life. Detective Dean is a very tortured soul and he is carrying around a lot of guilt and thinks he doesn't deserve to be happy even when it is right in his life he pushes it away. These tow souls need each other more than either if them care to admit.
This book has it all the drama, the suspense, the steam and the twists and turns that this book throws out is captivating. I loved how this author has written both of these characters and how she has brought them both to life and made them realistic to the reader and after everything that they have both been through I was really rooting for them both. This enemies to lovers story flows throughout and I really enjoyed reading it and I cant wait for the next story in line, I highly recommend this book.
#GuardedSouls #AmandaCarol #heroesofriverfalls #romanticsuspense #readromance #triggers #bookblogger #ReviewsHelpAuthors #booklover #bookseries #book1 #bookreview
MY BLOG.
https://www.facebook.com/VickisMagica...
Want to read
May 25, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/25/2022)! 🎁
April 27, 2021
I honestly don’t know where to start with this book, this is one that brings out all the feels.
I was first pulled in by the amazing cover and blurb and then I started reading...I was absolutely hooked from the first chapter. The suspense of this story literally kept me on edge from beginning to end, I was just waiting for something terrible to happen and break my heart again. However, even with all the nail biting I found myself falling in love with Dean and Aubrey. Their banter and chemistry were pretty awesome. Even though they were both fighting their own tragic pasts I loved how there was a possibility of them helping heal those wounds for each other. Even after finishing the book I find myself wanting more from them, I can’t wait for more of this series.
I was first pulled in by the amazing cover and blurb and then I started reading...I was absolutely hooked from the first chapter. The suspense of this story literally kept me on edge from beginning to end, I was just waiting for something terrible to happen and break my heart again. However, even with all the nail biting I found myself falling in love with Dean and Aubrey. Their banter and chemistry were pretty awesome. Even though they were both fighting their own tragic pasts I loved how there was a possibility of them helping heal those wounds for each other. Even after finishing the book I find myself wanting more from them, I can’t wait for more of this series.
April 21, 2021
Wow! This is my first time reading this author and it will not be the last. I was pulled in to this story immediately. The emotions hit me square in the heart and I found myself fighting, and not always winning, against tears. Aubrey experienced loss at a young age and has had to deal with a lot of things. She has pulled herself up into a very strong woman. I love her heart, her connections with her friends and the bit of sass she carries with her. Dean is grumpy, doesn't deal with his pain well but is very protective. I love the back and forth. I love the slow burn mixed perfectly with the suspense and nail biting moments. I am hooked and am looking forward to more from this series.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 18, 2021
I don't even know how to categorize this story!
This author packed so much into the pages of this story!
This is my first by the author; not the last!
Dean and Aubrey, I loved them.
OMG, my heart wept tears for Dean!
I could not put this book down! Thank goodness for Sundays!
This author packed so much into the pages of this story!
This is my first by the author; not the last!
Dean and Aubrey, I loved them.
OMG, my heart wept tears for Dean!
I could not put this book down! Thank goodness for Sundays!
July 14, 2021
Straight up ugly crying with this one!
I loved the characters, the story, and the pacing! So many moments to love in this book. I cried so much I was getting concerned.
I loved the characters, the story, and the pacing! So many moments to love in this book. I cried so much I was getting concerned.
April 24, 2021
Loved loved loved this book! I loved the chemistry between Aubrey and Dean. I liked how they were drawn to each other from the beginning and helped each other through their pain. I loved how its known that if you are experiencing trouble or are in distress that talking to someone and that its okay to seek help.
I loved Amanda Carol's Awakened series, and now after reading this book (which is the first in a new series) I'm excited to see where this author takes it! She's going places!
I loved Amanda Carol's Awakened series, and now after reading this book (which is the first in a new series) I'm excited to see where this author takes it! She's going places!
April 26, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. First time author for me. I loved the suspense, chemistry and story. Everything about this book kept me glued to this book.
July 25, 2021
Straight up amazing.
Like seriously, I love those kinds of romances (where one or both love interests have previously underwent trauma and are overcoming it separately AND together) I just love that trope.
This is a classic case of Sunshine Girl meets Moody Asshole which is always gonna be a great read!
And the ending!!!! 😱☺️😍🥰💯
Like seriously, I love those kinds of romances (where one or both love interests have previously underwent trauma and are overcoming it separately AND together) I just love that trope.
This is a classic case of Sunshine Girl meets Moody Asshole which is always gonna be a great read!
And the ending!!!! 😱☺️😍🥰💯
May 4, 2021
A beautiful story!
This was the first book I’ve read from this author and I absolutely loved it! Dean and Aubrey’s story was so heartbreaking yet beautiful. They’ve both experienced loss and together they grow and become a breathtaking love story. Can’t wait for the next book!
This was the first book I’ve read from this author and I absolutely loved it! Dean and Aubrey’s story was so heartbreaking yet beautiful. They’ve both experienced loss and together they grow and become a breathtaking love story. Can’t wait for the next book!
March 5, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. Definitely pulls at the heart strings. Can't wait for more
December 17, 2021
This book is so amazing! It is an amazing page turner. Not too long and a easy read. Sunshine/grumpy trope, slow burn. A few sexy scenes. An amazing read and I can't wait for book two!
January 20, 2022
This was the first book by Amanda Carol that I have read and it definitely won't be the last, if I could rate it ten stars I would.
Dean and Aubrey's story will have you flipping the page quicker than you can blink because their story is that gripping. I won't lie, I wanted throw my kindle so many times while reading this one, and not in a bad one but one those "Why are you doing this to me?!" type of ways!
This one is definitely a slow burn, something I don't typically read because I love having all the smut, but the suspense within the pages is what kept me going. I really loved it and now I'm on edge waiting for May because that's when Amanda will be releasing her second book in the Heroes of River Falls series, Saving Grace! I can't wait to read about Dylan and Cassie, and hopefully see more from Dean and Aubrey as well!
Dean and Aubrey's story will have you flipping the page quicker than you can blink because their story is that gripping. I won't lie, I wanted throw my kindle so many times while reading this one, and not in a bad one but one those "Why are you doing this to me?!" type of ways!
This one is definitely a slow burn, something I don't typically read because I love having all the smut, but the suspense within the pages is what kept me going. I really loved it and now I'm on edge waiting for May because that's when Amanda will be releasing her second book in the Heroes of River Falls series, Saving Grace! I can't wait to read about Dylan and Cassie, and hopefully see more from Dean and Aubrey as well!
November 3, 2021
I absolutely fell in love with this story. The characters of Aubrey and Dean are characters that were easy to fall in love with. There was so much depth to this story and it made it even more complex. This was my first book by Amanda Carol and it definitely will not be my last. This is probably easily one of my favorite reads this year.
May 22, 2021
Amanda Carol is a new to me author, and while I wish I had made the acquaintance of her books sooner, Guarded Souls was definitely an amazing experience to start out with. I'm totally a sucker for suspense stories, and I got that in spades here which put me firmly in my happy place which I didn't want to leave. Dean is a detective who lost his best friend/partner on duty, and it's really changed him. Aubrey's life hasn't been a picnic after losing her parents at a very young age, and picking a terrible boyfriend later on. He's a tortured soul, and despite the fact that Aubrey totally could be as well, she's the light to his dark but it isn't an easy journey whatsoever. On top of maneuvering through this emotional journey, there's danger stalking her, so things are taking another turn for these two as he has to keep her safe. Will Dean be able to keep her safe for a shot at a bright future?! I'm telling you, you don't want to miss out on this story that's filled with angst, slow burn goodness, and twists coming in hot so you know what to do! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
November 3, 2025
Rating: 3/5 stars
POV: Dual, 1st person
Length: Novel
Relationship: MF
Primary Tropes/Features: Romantic suspense, Forced proximity, Enemies to lovers, Blue collar Hero (Cop/Detective) Found family
Secondary Tropes/Features: Neighbours, Noir Hero, Small town romance, Grumpy/Sunshine, Surprise pregnancy
Content warning: A content warning is included at the start but in my opinion does not include all possible triggers. This book includes:
I became interested in Aubrey and Dean’s story after a glimpse of them in Ruined Promises by Stefanie Jenkins. Their book did not disappoint and I am slightly cursing myself for taking so long to read it.
Tormented by his past and struggling with survivor's guilt Dean was living a very sheltered, closed off life. But through flashbacks and interactions with those that knew him best we got a sense that that wasn’t who he was. He started off as abrupt, rude, and a little selfish but as the book progressed we saw his thoughtfulness and the intense flirty and cocky attitude that made him lovable. Like Dean, Aubrey was also a character who initially was closed off and not her normal self but it's something that we only really began to understand as we progressed through the book. She had a quick witted and snarky attitude, was insightful, and had this intense strength to her not only just from the circumstances of her past but in the way that she battled with Dean. The two of them were headstrong, prideful, and hated for others to see their weaknesses but it was through those scenes that we got a sense of their vulnerability making them well-rounded characters. I liked Aubrey and Dean in equal measure. They were characters that I enjoyed learning more about and was soon rooting for and willing for them to get their happy ending.
They didn't get off to the best of starts and the argumentative and stilted interactions were more often than not a result of Dean's closed off and stiff personality however they continued to meet each other tit for tat and you couldn't deny the attraction and chemistry between them. They were unnerved by how they could see through the other’s facade and with the stirring up of deep emotions, some which they hadn't felt before, it was only a matter of time before they became more. Things really began changing when they were in forced isolation and outside of the things that they had in common we saw how they grounded one another and re-ignited a mutual lust and love for life. My favourite thing about their romance development was how the comfort and contentment they felt with one another brought out a shared intuitiveness and elements of their old self as they began to heal. The quiet contentment they felt in each other’s company contrasted well with their intense and passionate physical chemistry when things started heating up and the use of domination in the bedroom further developed their dynamic in a way that suited them perfectly.
There were two secondary plots to the romance that in themselves were main plots for how they drove the characters’ actions, provided the settings of the book, and for their importance. The first was that of Aubrey’s experiences of living with and moving on from domestic violence and separation violence. This is a book which monopolises on these difficult and triggering themes using them to highlight the complexity and everyday experience for some domestic violence victims and to create a fictional romantic suspense with plenty of twists and turns. The second was of grief and the complex series of emotions that come as a result of that. It mainly centered on Dean and his survivors' guilt but you also had grief coming in from Aubrey which tied into the domestic violence plot. I found it not only showed the complexity of the theme but also that of Aubrey and Dean and how deep their emotions went. Whilst also serving to both aid and hinder their romantic development. Whilst acting as plot devices in some aspects I did find these themes in the book to be well developed and thought out. Nothing came across as being thrown into the plot purely for the shock factor and I do think the themes were handled with respect.
Having read 'Saving Grace' (book two in this series) a while ago and being able to remember just enough about it it was fun to see Cassie and Dylan outside of the events of their book. I enjoyed that slightly deeper look into Aubrey’s friend group as they were a fun and supportive group of individuals who I hope all get their own stories as they are something I'm interested in reading. It was also fun to see more of and the beginning of the friendship between Dylan and Dean as it was something that I liked in the second book when I read it. The cast of secondary characters brought a different kind of love and plenty of humour to a book that was otherwise fairly intense so I'm glad for their appearances and I do hope to see more of them
Aubrey and Dean have been on my TBR for a while now so I'm glad to have finally read their book and I hope to return to new books in this series in the future.
Favourite Quote(s):
POV: Dual, 1st person
Length: Novel
Relationship: MF
Primary Tropes/Features: Romantic suspense, Forced proximity, Enemies to lovers, Blue collar Hero (Cop/Detective) Found family
Secondary Tropes/Features: Neighbours, Noir Hero, Small town romance, Grumpy/Sunshine, Surprise pregnancy
Content warning: A content warning is included at the start but in my opinion does not include all possible triggers. This book includes:
I became interested in Aubrey and Dean’s story after a glimpse of them in Ruined Promises by Stefanie Jenkins. Their book did not disappoint and I am slightly cursing myself for taking so long to read it.
Tormented by his past and struggling with survivor's guilt Dean was living a very sheltered, closed off life. But through flashbacks and interactions with those that knew him best we got a sense that that wasn’t who he was. He started off as abrupt, rude, and a little selfish but as the book progressed we saw his thoughtfulness and the intense flirty and cocky attitude that made him lovable. Like Dean, Aubrey was also a character who initially was closed off and not her normal self but it's something that we only really began to understand as we progressed through the book. She had a quick witted and snarky attitude, was insightful, and had this intense strength to her not only just from the circumstances of her past but in the way that she battled with Dean. The two of them were headstrong, prideful, and hated for others to see their weaknesses but it was through those scenes that we got a sense of their vulnerability making them well-rounded characters. I liked Aubrey and Dean in equal measure. They were characters that I enjoyed learning more about and was soon rooting for and willing for them to get their happy ending.
They didn't get off to the best of starts and the argumentative and stilted interactions were more often than not a result of Dean's closed off and stiff personality however they continued to meet each other tit for tat and you couldn't deny the attraction and chemistry between them. They were unnerved by how they could see through the other’s facade and with the stirring up of deep emotions, some which they hadn't felt before, it was only a matter of time before they became more. Things really began changing when they were in forced isolation and outside of the things that they had in common we saw how they grounded one another and re-ignited a mutual lust and love for life. My favourite thing about their romance development was how the comfort and contentment they felt with one another brought out a shared intuitiveness and elements of their old self as they began to heal. The quiet contentment they felt in each other’s company contrasted well with their intense and passionate physical chemistry when things started heating up and the use of domination in the bedroom further developed their dynamic in a way that suited them perfectly.
There were two secondary plots to the romance that in themselves were main plots for how they drove the characters’ actions, provided the settings of the book, and for their importance. The first was that of Aubrey’s experiences of living with and moving on from domestic violence and separation violence. This is a book which monopolises on these difficult and triggering themes using them to highlight the complexity and everyday experience for some domestic violence victims and to create a fictional romantic suspense with plenty of twists and turns. The second was of grief and the complex series of emotions that come as a result of that. It mainly centered on Dean and his survivors' guilt but you also had grief coming in from Aubrey which tied into the domestic violence plot. I found it not only showed the complexity of the theme but also that of Aubrey and Dean and how deep their emotions went. Whilst also serving to both aid and hinder their romantic development. Whilst acting as plot devices in some aspects I did find these themes in the book to be well developed and thought out. Nothing came across as being thrown into the plot purely for the shock factor and I do think the themes were handled with respect.
Having read 'Saving Grace' (book two in this series) a while ago and being able to remember just enough about it it was fun to see Cassie and Dylan outside of the events of their book. I enjoyed that slightly deeper look into Aubrey’s friend group as they were a fun and supportive group of individuals who I hope all get their own stories as they are something I'm interested in reading. It was also fun to see more of and the beginning of the friendship between Dylan and Dean as it was something that I liked in the second book when I read it. The cast of secondary characters brought a different kind of love and plenty of humour to a book that was otherwise fairly intense so I'm glad for their appearances and I do hope to see more of them
Aubrey and Dean have been on my TBR for a while now so I'm glad to have finally read their book and I hope to return to new books in this series in the future.
Favourite Quote(s):
‘She was the light that I didn't even know I was looking for, and I wanted to be blinded.’
“When will you ever just do as you're told?”
“When it comes to you? Never”
“I just can't fight it anymore, Aubrey,” he whispered against my lips. “I don't want to fight it. But I'm not ready.”
I brought my hands up to clasp cheeks. “We can take our time. We are on no one else's timeline but ours.”
June 21, 2021
5⭐️ Reread Favorite
4⭐️ Absolutely loved it
3⭐️ Flaws but kept me entertained
2⭐️ Characters or major plot issues
1⭐️ More than majors issues
Updated review scale April 2021
4⭐️ Absolutely loved it
3⭐️ Flaws but kept me entertained
2⭐️ Characters or major plot issues
1⭐️ More than majors issues
Updated review scale April 2021
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews