Every Wound We Mend

Redeeming Love #9

by J.E. Parker

I promised to protect her...
Vowed that we'd be together forever.
I lied.

Because of me, the love of my life is gone.
And she's never coming back.

Guilt plagues me every single day.
As for the pain--it never ends.
Losing Carmen damned my soul.
But then a beautiful twist of fate changes everything.

Note: This is a continuation of Every Sin We Erase.
It is NOT a standalone

Genres: Romance, Humor, Contemporary Romance, Adult, Second Chance Romance

434 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 31, 2021

About the author

J.E. Parker is a multi-genre author of sexy, heart-wrenching romances that will make you laugh, cry, and swoon. A self-proclaimed hot mess and coffee connoisseur, she writes books featuring strong heroines, panty-melting heroes, a heaping serving (or two) of angst, and guaranteed happily ever afters.

To receive breaking news regarding new releases, giveaways, and ARC opportunities, sign up for her newsletter here: https://www.jeparkerbooks.com/newslet...

Reviews

[J.E. Parker]

The day is finally here, y'all!

After a year of delays due to my health issues, the conclusion to James' and Carmen's story is finally here! And OMG I can't wait for everyone to dive in!

But first, I want to say thank you to everyone who has stood by me as I battled through one medical crisis after another. I know that being a reader of mine hasn't been easy, so again—THANK YOU!

Universal Amazon Link: mybook.to/EWWMKindle

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3p2WOok
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2RPg9xq
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2SFohk7
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3c27M8A

(Available in KindleUnlimited)

[Lost Within The Pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have mixed emotions about this book where as parts of it were so good and had me wanting to devour the book, other parts had me shaking my head and wanting to put the book down. Hence the mixed emotions I feel like the story was good but at the same time the characters had me wanting to scream. Honestly I felt there were scence in the story that were a little over the top. It was still a good story.

[Brandy Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh wow just wow another amazing story by one of my favorite authors J.E Parker really knows to bring her characters to life and make her readers fall for them and the story . I didn't want to put my kindle down after reading book eight in the Redeeming love series side note Every wound we mend can't be read as a standalone you really need to read book eight but you don't have to read the seven books before this one but I would highly recommend that you do that way you don't run into spoilers and it's better enjoyed that way . The couple is truly amazing you could really see how they felt for one another and just overall chemistry is electric . I can't wait to read more by the author and to read more and hopefully see more from these amazing characters .

[Angie Flanagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This long awaited ending of this series, has finally arrived! I have read every book in this series from this amazing author since the very beginning. THIS WAS WORTH THE WAIT!! And to see what happened with this big crazy family!!!!

Carmen and Jade start over from being dumped in the swamp by the most horrible man to ever exist (well in book land anyway).

They have their new lives, and everything is going along great until he shows up. No, not who you think, but MY FAVE COP, ANTHONY!!! Carmen thinking of course it has to do with the past, bolts but Anthony is able to talk her into coming with him to what, more importantly, who he is talking about.

Then in walks Pop AKA James. Little did he know going over to get the grandkids, who would be sitting in the living room. It's her. She's really back. Is she here to stay? He wants to make her stay. But how can he make sure she's safe, along with Little One?

Well of course with this big crazy family, they have all of their challenges and are there to support everyone in the family. And not only blood, but adopted ones into the family.

Carmen and James' love story was just the beginning with book one of this duo, and this was the epic love story ending.

Grandmama of course was her crazy self, and actin' a fool and out there to keep those safe that she holds dear to her ever lovin' heart!

We get to see how the families have grown, and expanded in this last book of the series. I didn't want it to end. I didn't want this series to end. But I know we will see more of this family in the near future. Ain't that right JE?!!

As I read the epilogue, and THANK YOU FOR PUTTING THAT IN THERE! I was bawling my eyes out cause I knew it was the end. But it was soooo great to be a part of this journey and a part of this big crazy family!!

Thank you JE for letting me part of your writing journey from the beginning. More amazing things are coming your way!

BTW Anthony IS STILL MINE CHRISTINA!

Some of my fave quotes:
1. With every shattered piece of me. Love Aways, Pixie. - I CRIED MY EYES OUT READING THIS!!
2. I just hope you made your piece with God, because I'm coming for you. - WHOA! I didn't see that one coming!! I was shocked at this, but then it made sense lol!
3. You aren't going anywhere. I growled. - Yes James! Don't let her leave!
4. I loved the epilogue about Lucca! I can't wait to see what happens with him. I know you'll do something right JE? Right?? Please? Cause he has to stop his whorin' ways right? LOL!!!

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
🥵
👿

The last in a brilliant series, recommended

[Sapphire · Rating 5 out of 5]

That’s a Wrap on This Pure Art! ♥️

Holy guacamole and cheese, I’m near speechless. I was so curious why James had two books and the speech from Grandmama about what wouldn’t have happened without him answered all my questions. There are not enough words to describe my love for these characters, for this story and for the author who has written such painful and beautiful books.

🧚‍♀️♥️🔥

[Debleena · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+++++++++ Stars

I swear I am not crying, it's just I am trying to "create" more water to curb water crisis 😭😭💧💧

Wow, up until now Shelby and Anthony were my favourite couple from this series (the other leads were amazing and lovable too, no arguments there) but this duet changed it.
Honestly, I was wary of reading this duet simply because of James horrendous past self. I won't lie, it was because I wanted to see more of one of my most favourite protagonists Ari and Alejandro from one of my most favourite book'Falling for the Enemy'(a connection, my dumbass self couldn't make until Ari was mentioned in book 6) that made me decide to read this duet, buttt damn am I ecstatic that I read this duet.

Carmen is a fierce warrior and a true , strong conquerer. She didn't let life break her, and remained her true self, i.e. to care and protect someone more vulnerable than herself, throughout her horrible nightmare. She is a badass and to say that she has a steel spine would be an understatement. The girl is forged from Titanium.

I cried throughout book 8, cried during all the reunions that happened in book 9 and literally jiggled while crying (which made my parents contemplating whether I should be admitted in a psyche ward 😅😅) when the putas met their makers😈😈

James.... He started as a loathsome character and ended up becoming one of my favourite mc . This guy too survived hell but unlike Carmen he was too weak to win against his demons ,thus damning his child . Throughout the series I was wary of liking and loving this guy and truthfully searched internet regarding reformed abusers and second chances , which quite frankly and understandably were not quite in his favour. This duet made me understand James. Unlike a majority of abusers who are diagnosed with narcissistic personality, James abuse came from self hatred. It's not excusable by any means, but makes me cry for this man. However he finally found his strength, and purpose and did his best to earn back even an iota of trust and love from his kins.
His deep love for Carmen moved me, his determination to right his wrong made me admire him and his love,care and protectiveness towards his children and grandchildren awed me and his support , possesiveness, support, protectiveness along with him helping Carmen heal and slay her demons made me respect and love him.

The side characters were freaking amazing especially Faye, Shelby,Anthony , Hendrix and offcourse Crazy old Biddy. Hendrix 's vulnerability when it came to a mother figure and how hopeful he seemed when Carmen called him his son teared me up.

I was happy to see Anna's backstory and how Ari met Carmen. Damn now I have to satisfy my greed by reading Falling for the Enemy since this duet or specifically book 9 made me crave that book again.

Grandmama remained the undefeated most favourite character throughout the series. I loved and loved the crazy pervert.

Definitely a re read. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🥰🥰

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I could give this book, actually this whole series of books, a thousand stars! In this book, whether by Fate or divine guidance, James and Carmen are finally reunited. Their paths back to each were first founded with fear, anger, guilt and recrimination, then became paved with healing, growing stronger and redemption. They never forgot each other or the pain they felt at not being together. Poor James believed Carmen to be dead for seven long, heartbroken years, and when she reappeared along with Jade, the young girl now woman he had vowed to treat as his own daughter, his first emotion was bitter anger. Anger at all the years they had lost, anger she hadn’t come to him to protect her, and anger that pure evil had kept them part. Carmen is not the broken, addicted woman she once was at the hands of her enslaver. She is now strong, capable and determined to protect herself and Jade at all costs. She has mourned her dreamed of life with James that she had to abandon in order to protect him and his family from the evil that chased her. Now she confronts James and his anger, demands to be heard and helps him find the joy and glory of their reunion. They both find that their lives have been interwoven even though they had not been together until now. Now they are finally healing “one fractured piece at a time. One breath, one step at a time.” They are part of a large extended family, some related by blood, some only by shared experiences, and all chosen and grafted together by love.

This book, this whole series really, is filled with stark painful moments, then bright and pure moments of shared love. There are moments of sheer hilarity as well, usually provided by Grandmama or one the strong, feisty ladies that have found their way into this big, beautiful and wonderfully chaotic family. You will need tissues as you read this and the other books, as well as sustenance nearby as you won’t be able to put this book or the others down until the last page has been read. I highly recommend this book and the whole series. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a heartbreaking story this one was. This story was filled with so much feeling a heart and soul, and it is a reality for so many.

As heart-wrenching as the story was to hear, I will say that for me that it was impossible not to fall in love with each and one of these characters.

This is the type of story you could go on, and on about how much I loved it and the conclusion to Carmen's and James story. So we will then just name a few, so here goes. The grandma of them all was priceless she made us constantly laugh, and she was a hoot she was just the perfect influx in the story, keeping you from wanting to constantly ball your eyes out because this story was so heart-wrenching and heartbreaking as you felt the pain that these characters suffered right down to your bones. I loved that out of such a tragedy for so many a good deal of something has come from the ashes, and they have created this one big happy family made up of a bunch of broken misfits that is filled with so much love and laughter now. The grandkids were also a riot who constantly made me chuckle, but, grandma was the bomb.

Overall, we loved Carmen and James story and how they both grew and healed together and without a doubt they were soulmates. In a sense they saved one another as James had been dealing with his own set of demons that others had paid the price for. Carmen's story was horrific for her but, out of the ashes and her misery and pain she has gained a rather large family that was all about love and loving one another, and now she is truly blessed. This story will be one not easily forgotten and one that went straight for the heart. The conclusion ended with one heck of a surprise and one Carmen justly deserved and also gave us a ti bit of what was in store to come and grandma's re-telling of the story brought tears to our eyes as well as joy.

[Christina Youngren · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a bitter, sweet moment as we come to the end of a life changing, spectacular series, one that ends on a truly remarkable book. I am not sure how many of you write a review and sit, doing it in tears as I am now, but the salty liquid is seeping down my face for so many reasons.

First, this book is phenomenal and the second half of a story that everyone should read. It grabs you by the heart and doesn’t let go. So many emotions race through you as dig in; sorrow, pain, happiness, love, devotion, and so much more. Pop and Carmen’s journey has been one that will rip you apart and make you swoon a hundred times over as you read it. You couldn’t ask for a better story.

Second, the series end, wow it’s been a ride. I’m not one for roller coasters when it comes to real life, but I would ride this coaster of a series over and over. As a huge fan of the series and every book in it, I have to just say, the characters are like family. If I could jump into their world or bring them to mine, just to spend time with the amazing people that JE has created, I would do it in a heart beat. I adore every one of their personalities, strength, and love of friendship and family they possess throughout each book.

Third, the author, well she writes her butt off no doubt. The way she captures and owns your heart from start to finish of each and every book she has written, is one amazing victory. How did I get so lucky in a world with who knows how many authors, to stumble across one that can make you feel every word that she has wrote to the bottom of your soul? I’m not sure the answer to that, but I’m dang glad I did. Thank you, J.E. Parker, I will always and forever read anything you write. We both know you are so much more than an author to me and always will be.

[Aelicia Greene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check TW
Older Female and Male MC (50's/40's)✅
Reunited love✅

Plot 5✨
Spice 4🌶️

My sweetness is gone.
I couldn't save her or her girls.
I failed once again.
It's been seven years since James failed and while he still grieves the loss of his soul mate, he goes on living for the family he now has. He still has his son, daughter, and all of his grandbabies. He misses Carmen every day, but he knows she would want him to love them all with everything he has.

I should have died that night.
My little one saved me.
We can't go back there, ever.
Living without James is unbearable for Carmen, but she knows that it is the only way to keep her man, kids, and little one safe. She failed to save one of her girls, but she knows that she would want her and her little one to live life to the fullest. That is what she is determined to do.

When everything that James and Carmen believe is their reality is shattered can they forgive, heal, and move on or is some heartbreak just too much to heal from?

The end is here, and I am not ready to say goodbye to this family that I want to be a part of. I loved how the author wrapped up everything in a nice, neat package. It is no surprise that this book made me cry as well. The series epilogue is everything I wanted and more. I love the hints that we may get more stories involving this amazing family. Seeing James and Carmen finally be able to heal along with other members of the family was perfect. God, I love this story and series so much!!!

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 9th book in this phenomenal series and the 2nd and conclusion of this duet, and this is now a standalone story. After that whammy of a cliffhanger, I was not sure what direction this tale would take. Carmen and Jade start their lives over after being dumped in the swamp by an evil individual, and Carmen is not the vulnerable woman she used to be, she is stronger, fiercely protection of those she loves, and is more than capable of handling any threat and challenges. James (Pop) has believed that Carmen has been dead and has been grieving for the past heartwrenching 7-years. The chemistry between these two is combustible and undeniable. This is a beautifully written flawless story which is an emotional roller coaster, with family, support, loyalty, grief, fear, healing, redemption, devastation, joy, intrigue, danger, suspense, and love. I was completely hooked throughout this riveting and addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading more form this talented author whose work I highly recommend. This duet is worth so much more than the 5 stars allowed, as this gifted author has done a phenomenal job in weaving this storyline, and in my opinion, this is her best work to date!

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what a ending !!!!

Y'all this book is not one for the faint of heart that's for sure. It took me on an epic emotional rollercoaster. The story of Carmen and Pop is one for the books. The journey this series takes you on is one of epic proportions. However just when I thought there is no way that Jaimee couldn't possibly break my heart any more, she proved me so very wrong but in the end she masterfully put it back together again. I don't want to give anything away because there is just so much to tell that I wouldn't even know where to start . I will tell you this, make sure you have at least one box of tissues close by because you will certainly need them. I'm sad that this series has came to an end but without a doubt I know we will be seeing some of these wonderful strong resilient and beautiful characters again. After all once you read the whole series, you feel like part of the family. Thank you Jaimee for your amazing and captivating stories and for capturing my heart in the process!!! Much love for this amazing author with how she's able to make you FEEL everything that transpires. Until we meet again lovely!!!!

[Shelly Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I may be your Prince Charming, baby, but it is wasn't me who was busy slaying your demons. That's all you. All I did was hand you the sword."

Oh, my heart! I am so sad to see this series come to an end, but in all honesty, I'm not sure my heart could have taken much more! This author holds the title of the only one to make me cry over a book - and I read a LOT of books.

And while every other book in the series is a tear-jerker and a heart-shredder, this duet topped them all!! Pop's and Carmen's story is just amazing. They were both so broken, but were drawn to that same brokenness in each other. Then, the unspeakable happens and my heart broke all over again.

Then a miracle happens and my heart was put all back together again and just overflowed with all the feels! I laughed, and yes, I cried - tears of laughter, joy and pain.

If you haven't read this series, I highly recommend it. If you have, and you just haven't read Pop's & Carmen's story, what on earth are you waiting for!! Have the tissues handy though. You're going to need them!!

I cannot wait for the spin-off series from this author!! It's going to be amazing!

[Jennifer Isele · Rating 5 out of 5]

The grand finale

This is part two of the Carmen and James story. Make sure you read the first part before this book. I recommend reading the series in order as the other characters all appear in this story. Vey few characters are blood relatives. This series is about a family full of people who were dealt bad hands and come together when Grandmama, aka the Crazy Old Bitty, decides you are worthy to be called hers.

This book is less about the spice and more about the healing that that James and Carmen go through. Everyone finally has their demons dealt with and gets the closure they need to live their happily ever after.

This book is well written and an emotional roller coaster. There is a lot of love, laughter, and tears from this self made family. Characters have to deal with some storms to get to their sunshine and you feel like you are walking it with them.

Some storms may be trigger points. Please read any warnings the author lists on her website. This is a beautiful story but characters recall their nightmare pasts.

The author promises a new series for the younger generation and I can't wait for it.

[Missy Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart!

This whole series…. Every book, every word written…. There are no words to say how wonderful these books were. Yes, there are trigger warnings and stuff that was hard to read. But the outcome, the beauty in these written words… damn….

The hope Ms. Parker gives to people that may have been in similar situations, it’s beautiful. And one that I know firsthand can come true. My situation may not have been as bad as the situations in this series, but after what I endured, I was a lost soul who accidentally found my soul mate who helped me heal. It’s out there for everyone and I hope with everything I have that many will find the same. Because you can find your happily ever after and a beautiful life.

Thank you, Ms. Parker. Your words were not only heard, but felt deeply. I cannot wait to read more from you. I’m really looking forward to seeing the next generation in this series fall and their parents losing their minds. It’s going to be epic! I just wonder… does Grandmama have that many years left in her? Because if she does… this might just be the most epic thing ever!

Keep writing beautiful because we can’t wait to see where you take us!

[Jenn the Readaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’d wondered how Carmen and James would find their way back to each other. I just wasn’t expecting all that came with it. He thought the worst for her. She thought the worst for so many. Not of. FOR. The terror of putting anyone else in danger kept Carmen and Jade away for far too long, and poor Anthony wound up being the painful recipient of that terror when he put the pieces together. Of course, he also got to be the one to bring James’s heart home to him, but he did it with some serious limping and soreness as his shadow.

This wasn’t so much a story of suspense and fear and angst as it was one of hope. Carmen got what she needed and deserved in life here, as did James. And they also served as the bridge to a few couples I’ve been hoping to see more of in the future. And now, I can’t wait for what comes next. Because James, Carmen, and their whole family are how happy and secure, so of course I want more. I’m just demanding like that...much like Grandmama and her filming of football, I want more to enjoy.

[Rosa · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Received an ARC for my honest review**

Oh my gosh, as if the reunion between Carmen, Jade and Ashley was not enough to shed tears. Then when Carmen saw James for the 1st time after seven years was just too much for me. They were just meant to be with each other and the years apart couldn't keep them away from each other anymore. The love they have for each other was stronger than anything.

James was so patient with Carmen through all the good and the bad. They both had horrible pasts to overcome and I loved how they stood by one another. The whole clan was so good at making Carmen and Jade feel loved and wanted.

Carmen was such a brave woman she would face her fears to save someone else. In the end she got her HEA with James and the whole clan. My most favorite part was at the end when she reunited with someone she thought she would never see again. I just wished we could have seen more of her and this person reuniting.

This was an amazing end to a wonderful series.

Cannot wait to read the Fallen Kings Series. Maybe we will get a glimpse of the clan again.

[Britt Chaotic Creatives · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grab your tissues folks, and get ready for an epic conclusion we've all been dying for. JE Parker came back with a bang and knocked it out of the park with Every Wound We Mend. Whatever you think you've prepared for in the conclusion of James and Carmen's story, toss it out the window because it won't come close to the magnificence that this book is. I think I felt every emotion humanly possible while reading this. I went from full-on snotty, ugly crying to hysterical laughter from one page to the next all while I was falling right back in love with each and every character.
I've adored every couple in this series, but let me tell you, none of them come close to how much I love James and Carmen. These two are just...amazing. And even that word feels too small to fully encompass all that they are. The pain of their pasts, the healing in their future, the unbreakable love they share. It's all so breathtakingly beautiful that it feels like it swallows you whole while you're reading their story.

[Izzybear · Rating 5 out of 5]

I greatly enjoyed the conclusion to Pop and Carmen’s story. It was heartbreakingly beautiful and uplifting.
Some wounds take years to heal and even then they might not completely disappear. They leave behind scars as reminders of the battle and how an individual overcame it all.
I adored Carmen. She is such an amazing and resilient woman, a survivor.
Even in the darkest of hours she found the strength to fight.
I was overjoyed to see that little by little the wounds inflicted upon her have begun to heal. That finally she has been able to reclaim her power and find herself again. That strong, intelligent, big hearted and beautiful individual she always has been and is.
I love how Pop and the rest of Magnolia Street family claim Carmen as their family, stand by her and help her through the healing process.
This is truly my favorite fictional family.
I also really loved how the author wrapped things up in the second epilogue. It felt complete and perfect.
I would definitely recommend Carmen and Pop’s story.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE the Redeeming Love series so much, and I've definitely been waiting on pins & needles for Every Wound We Mend (though I'm sorry this brilliant author went through the fire before being able to finish it & I'm so glad she's okay), but it really was worth the wait! You simply cannot take it on before you've read Every Sin We Erase (Book 8 and/or the first part to James & Carmen's story) otherwise the conclusion just won't hit the same to be honest. There's so much emotion in this one that my emotions totally went rogue, and since there's a lot of suspense to it, I don't feel the need to actually give details away at the end of the day. Just know that you'll be on the edge of your seat like me as the twists coming in hot & my f-bombs drop loudly, you may or may not need some tissue (I certainly did), you will want to jump into the actual pages to take out the baddies, and not want it to ever end! I promise everyone needs J.E. Parker in their lives so get to one clicking! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice wrap up

This book gets 4 stars for the overall wrap up with all the characters. Taking out pops horrible physical abuse, I could get on board with his reception - of it was just gambling, alcoholism, and neglect. But the physical abuse is still where I struggle. So I'm still not sure how I feel about pop and everything he did and be able to be redeemed. But the fact that the family accepted him and his changed ways, is good. The book wrapped up all the stories in a nice way and even gave the future view on them which was nice.

Overall though, this series wasn't my favorite. The women claimed to be so strong but then we're emotional basket cases. And yes, they had crappy pasts all around, but I felt like they were up and down in their emotions a bit too much instead of showing growth and strength throughout.

I am curious about Ari and Alexandro and their story so I will continue with the spin off series and see how it turns out. Can't be worse than this series.

[Nicki (BooksandChatt) · Rating 5 out of 5]

J.E. Parker never disappoints! This book is not only the conclusion to Pop and Carmen’s story but the finale to the Redeeming Love series. I loved every minute of it!

Packed full of tough emotional circumstances! Every Wound We Mend gave me all the feels! Seriously, tissues may be required.

James Cole is definitely a character that I didn’t know could be redeemed but I loved him so much by the time his story came around! Seeing his growth throughout was really special. Especially his relieving Hendrix. ♥️

Carmen has been through so many horrific things in her life. Seeing her come through that and get the happy ending she deserves made this story.

I absolutely love this series and seeing the conclusion play out was amazing! I am so excited to see what’s next from J.E. Parker! The ending of a series is always bittersweet but it not goodbye.

Absolutely Recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

-received an arc for an honest review

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everytime I pick up a j.e Parker book i think I'm ready for the emotional roller coaster that it i know its going to be..

But I'm never ready because she out does herself every single time.. this series just gets better with every book!

Pops defo has the biggest character development of the whole series and i absolutely love him ❤

I can't believe this is the end of the series for these guys because I could just keep reading about them over and over, and grandmama needs her own mini series so I can just read about all her antics and adventures!

I'm sad to move on from all these characters but can't wait for the kids stories in sure they will be just as fun, angsty and emotional as this series has been!

Once again absolutely smashed this book out of the park and far exceeded my expectations.. and thats a feat since after the other books my expectations were extremely high!!

This is a must read series

[Mindy Martinez Borda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have just finished the last book of the series and I loved it so much! I love , love, loooooove it! It was the perfect ending for this series!
It had the emotional drama rollercoaster and the most beautiful moments I have ever read, all mixed the the most bizarrely hilarious encounters ever written. I'm thinking of starting a Grandmama fan club. I love her that much!
As far as the Spanish you used in the book, it was so much better than the first one. I was really happy about it. I could see how much effort in getting it right the author put there and that made such a difference for me as a reader. It still had some issues but they were minimal in comparison to the first.
It's because of your series and how hard the author has worked to make Carmen's use of the language as perfect as possible, that she has gain a loyal reader in me! I can't wait for her to deliver the next spin-off series!

[Fleur · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't believe it is finally the end of this series, but what a way to finish it with a duet and the last book does not disappoint as Pop and Carmen's story is one of the most heart wrenching so I can see why it was the last story. So firstly get the tissues, get the blocks of chocolate and get a bottle or two of wine as you are going to cry lots, laugh get angry as well as feel hopeless and I am not exaggerating. Carmen has been through so so much in her life which would break any normal person and the love that she and Pop shared was so strong it changed them both and then she was gone. Now there is a second chance but both Pop and Carmen have become different people from when they last saw each other but they totally love each other so you are cheering for them to overcome everything and have a HEA just like all the rest of the family, well apart from Grandmama as ain't no fella gonna be good enough or be able to keep up with her!!!!

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review*

The finale to Pop & Carmen’s story was perfect! Reading this was bittersweet as I didn’t want it to end but I cannot wait to see what comes next!

Carmen & Jade had been left for dead in a ditch, leaving them to start a new life away from the town/family they knew. Years later, they find their way back home.

Pop was in a dark place after finding out that Carmen was dead. One day, he walks into his daughters house to find Carmen, the love of his life sitting on the couch! That was not the reunion they we’re expecting but after some much needed explanations they begin to find their way back to each other.

Pop & Carmen’s reunion and everything there after was great! Reading about all the kids as they’re growing up makes my heart happy! Of course grandmama and her crazy antics never get old! So have some tissue ready and prepare to cry & of course laugh!

I cannot wait to see what comes next!!

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am still coming down off the book high from reading this one. It is part two of James and Carmen's story but it is also a wrap up of the entire cast of characters in this series and the beginning of new series to come. When we left off James has lost Carmen and his world was devastated but he picked himself up and redeemed himself with his son and daughter and now he is a proud father and grandfather and living his best life. Carmen and Jade had escaped and now it is seven years later and their world is about to be turned upside down again.

There is so much love in this book and healing and hilarious times. I loved it all. No spoilers so I will keep my review short but it is fantastic and I highly recommend it.

I received an early copy to read and review with my honest opinion. It is a great book, a great series and I have loved them all.

[Amberlyn Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a ridiculously great series. Wow! I think I read them all within a week.

“Trust me, if I’m going to fall in love with somebody one day, permanently chaining my heart to theirs, then it’ll be the dang villain, not the mushy knight in shining armor.”

“It said that the difference between a hero and a villain is that the hero will sacrifice their heroine to save the world, but the villain, well, that bad boy will douse the world in gasoline and set it aflame without a second thought in order to save his woman.”

“But after everything I’ve been through, I only want a man who is willing to strike a match in order to keep me safe. Therefore, I’ll take the big baddy.” She cleared her throat. “If he happens to be tall, dark, handsome, and covered in colorful tattoos, all the better.”

“If that makes me the villain in this love story instead of the hero, then so be it.”

[KCJenny66 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sooooo good

Hopefully you aren’t starting here. This family of characters is funny, loving, and loud. J.E. Parker has a way of making you want to dive into this world and become a part of it. We all have pasts, some ugly, some difficult, but the love of good people can help us feel whole. I can’t even put into words how I feel about this series. I didn’t want it to end, and who knows..I think more stories are coming. I will say, there may be some triggers for some, so heed her warnings. I was reluctant at first to read James’ and Carmen’s HEA. I had a little crush on James through the first 7 books. But Carmen is perfect for him and they are just what each other needed. I cried, laughed, and cried again. I have a feeling that “The End” is really not. Enjoy!