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A Town Without Pity #1
No More Tears
A riches to rags cowboy. A hardened cowgirl. The gunshot that erases all doubt.
Laura Warner knows nothing but horses. Her entire life has been lived on a ranch. It’s her love, her dream, and aside from the love of her life, Quentin, it’s the only thing that she ever thinks about. But when tragedy strikes at Kelsey Ranch, Laura is left to care for the horses and the land with the help of her siblings. Years later, Laura feels content with life, but when a gunshot blasts only days after she has to make a difficult decision, Laura learns that everything happens for a reason…and it doesn’t always lead to more hardship…sometimes it leads to happiness. But can she convince herself that this is possible?
Grayson Thomas is an out of work lowlife, who just happens to have world class siblings that drag him out of his rut days after he loses everything, or gives everything up, depending on one’s perspective. When he makes the decision to flee from El Paso and move to Huttonville, just outside of Dallas, his brothers give him their thumbs up. Grayson has no idea that he’s about to step into the world that he does, and when a gunshot blasts on his second day in Huttonville, he’s left wondering if he should make tire tracks back to El Paso, or stay in Huttonville.
When Laura’s face becomes a staple in Grayson’s life, what was once a demon craving becomes a distant memory. What he once worked hard for and lost soon becomes something that he may have again. Things that once brought him to the edges of demise, become obliterated and exist only in random nightmares. Grayson’s tough exterior is softened through Laura’s honest and thoughtful words, and Laura sees life in a new light, and learns to laugh and have fun again with someone that isn’t family. But is this enough? Can two people who have been through so much, lost everything and worked hard to gain it back, learn to trust enough to let their guard down and see life and love for what it is? Short answer, yes. They both do. But just when they do, someone who has been watching from afar swoops in and threatens to take everything.
Can they survive yet another tragedy…and more important, will they have to?
This is a book about survival and love. In that order. This series is the start of a huge helping of feels. Each story has medium heat and a cliffhanger ending, so be sure to read the books in their proper sequence.
Laura Warner knows nothing but horses. Her entire life has been lived on a ranch. It’s her love, her dream, and aside from the love of her life, Quentin, it’s the only thing that she ever thinks about. But when tragedy strikes at Kelsey Ranch, Laura is left to care for the horses and the land with the help of her siblings. Years later, Laura feels content with life, but when a gunshot blasts only days after she has to make a difficult decision, Laura learns that everything happens for a reason…and it doesn’t always lead to more hardship…sometimes it leads to happiness. But can she convince herself that this is possible?
Grayson Thomas is an out of work lowlife, who just happens to have world class siblings that drag him out of his rut days after he loses everything, or gives everything up, depending on one’s perspective. When he makes the decision to flee from El Paso and move to Huttonville, just outside of Dallas, his brothers give him their thumbs up. Grayson has no idea that he’s about to step into the world that he does, and when a gunshot blasts on his second day in Huttonville, he’s left wondering if he should make tire tracks back to El Paso, or stay in Huttonville.
When Laura’s face becomes a staple in Grayson’s life, what was once a demon craving becomes a distant memory. What he once worked hard for and lost soon becomes something that he may have again. Things that once brought him to the edges of demise, become obliterated and exist only in random nightmares. Grayson’s tough exterior is softened through Laura’s honest and thoughtful words, and Laura sees life in a new light, and learns to laugh and have fun again with someone that isn’t family. But is this enough? Can two people who have been through so much, lost everything and worked hard to gain it back, learn to trust enough to let their guard down and see life and love for what it is? Short answer, yes. They both do. But just when they do, someone who has been watching from afar swoops in and threatens to take everything.
Can they survive yet another tragedy…and more important, will they have to?
This is a book about survival and love. In that order. This series is the start of a huge helping of feels. Each story has medium heat and a cliffhanger ending, so be sure to read the books in their proper sequence.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2020
400 people are currently reading
803 people want to read
About the author
Sandy Appleyard
69 books195 followersSandy writes in several genres, however romance, inspirational fiction and suspense are her favourites.
As a working writer, Sandy squeezes writing time in during breaks (extended ones if the boss isn't watching ;). Happily married since 2004, Sandy resides in Niagara Falls, Ontario with her husband, two daughters, and two furbabies.
For more information, book links, contact information and blog posts, see her website www.sandyappleyard.com or visit her on Twitter @sandyappleyard
As a working writer, Sandy squeezes writing time in during breaks (extended ones if the boss isn't watching ;). Happily married since 2004, Sandy resides in Niagara Falls, Ontario with her husband, two daughters, and two furbabies.
For more information, book links, contact information and blog posts, see her website www.sandyappleyard.com or visit her on Twitter @sandyappleyard
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
September 3, 2020
⚖️⚖️ONE HEART SOARING TREAT⚖️⚖️
Sensational! Sandy has outdone herself with this delectable delight, laying this baby bare, pulling those heartstrings and cranking up the thrill, propelling this gem to a whole new level. Shenanigans run rampant and havoc is rife, dishing out the drama, turmoil, intrigue, duplicity, revelations escalating suspense and intense situations, make for one highly combustible adventure. Boundaries are heightened and exploited, baring the tormenting truth, dubious deals and electrifying escapades, booting this baby into the eye of the storm, slamming it into a frenzy with an astonishing culmination. The instantaneous attraction and chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back exposing profound emotions and an thrilling connection, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters are complex and genuine with traits and qualities that add depth and realism, blend and flow transforming into relatable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Sandy, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
Sensational! Sandy has outdone herself with this delectable delight, laying this baby bare, pulling those heartstrings and cranking up the thrill, propelling this gem to a whole new level. Shenanigans run rampant and havoc is rife, dishing out the drama, turmoil, intrigue, duplicity, revelations escalating suspense and intense situations, make for one highly combustible adventure. Boundaries are heightened and exploited, baring the tormenting truth, dubious deals and electrifying escapades, booting this baby into the eye of the storm, slamming it into a frenzy with an astonishing culmination. The instantaneous attraction and chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back exposing profound emotions and an thrilling connection, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters are complex and genuine with traits and qualities that add depth and realism, blend and flow transforming into relatable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Sandy, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
May 23, 2021
Started out pretty good, good story line and good H & h. Interesting bad guy and many memorable characters. Then, the author did the unforgiveable. She left the reader hanging and admitted it was a CLIFFHANGER!!! There is no excuse for this in any book. I will remember Sandy's name and never read another another of her books, even if it is free.
April 16, 2021
This was a beautiful second chance romance that was a joy to read. Heartbreaking then heartwarming. This was the first book in a new series called A Town Without Pity and be warned that it ends with a cliffhanger. Laura lost the love of her life in a tragic accident and Grayson lost everything that he had worked so hard for. Together they begin to add sparks in each others lives. I read a copy via Voracious Readers but also purchased a copy. The characters were likable and well developed and the story line engaging.
April 11, 2022
I like the idea of second-chances at romance, at a career.
The first part of this book--other than thinking that the romance was rushed (which is a usual complaint for me about this genre)--I was okay with.
Then, about 3/4 of the way through, the book suddenly turned into a smut fest. Let's face it, Laura, you've barely known this guy a few months, and suddenly you're in bed with him--and this happens a number of times.
And then, there's the cliffhanger ending (which the author claims she warned us about, but if there was a warning at the beginning, I never saw it). I get authors wanting people to buy the next book in the series, but this level of cliffhanger turns me completely off.
The first part of this book--other than thinking that the romance was rushed (which is a usual complaint for me about this genre)--I was okay with.
Then, about 3/4 of the way through, the book suddenly turned into a smut fest. Let's face it, Laura, you've barely known this guy a few months, and suddenly you're in bed with him--and this happens a number of times.
And then, there's the cliffhanger ending (which the author claims she warned us about, but if there was a warning at the beginning, I never saw it). I get authors wanting people to buy the next book in the series, but this level of cliffhanger turns me completely off.
April 26, 2021
I enjoyed the story line of this book. Characters were strong and well thought out. There were many reasons to give this book a higher mark. But I do not like books that do not end or tie up loose endings. To do so, this author feels you should buy another book to do so. So in essence this is a cliffhanger!
I did receive this book free from voraciousreadersonly.com, if I had purchased it I would have been highly upset.
I did receive this book free from voraciousreadersonly.com, if I had purchased it I would have been highly upset.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2022
BEWARE!
Unless you are ready to spend your hard earned cash in order to finish this story don't start this one because the author leaves you high and dry. I was really enjoying the story when suddenly it just stopped. Now will I get any conclusion in the next book or will I have to buy the 3rd book? Writer's like this one have no respect for their readers!
Unless you are ready to spend your hard earned cash in order to finish this story don't start this one because the author leaves you high and dry. I was really enjoying the story when suddenly it just stopped. Now will I get any conclusion in the next book or will I have to buy the 3rd book? Writer's like this one have no respect for their readers!
December 13, 2020
Nope. I hate cliff hangers!!
I hate books that leave the reader wondering. Also, this is not well written. There are many grammatical errors that are not regional dialect or part of the character’s “voice”. The whole story is shallow.
I hate books that leave the reader wondering. Also, this is not well written. There are many grammatical errors that are not regional dialect or part of the character’s “voice”. The whole story is shallow.
Want to read
February 10, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/19/2020)! 🎁
September 23, 2020
Greyson & Laura had a great book. Good characters. It was an emotional roller coaster with drama. And a new author for me. I received a free copy of the book. And am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
September 5, 2020
This story offers a sweet second chance romance as well as a little intrigue and suspense. Both Laura and Grayson have suffered the loss of a beloved spouse and have found it difficult to move forward, to connect with anyone else. That changes when they meet on her ranch. Laura, a ranch owner, is in need of a new lead hand and Grayson applies for the job. She quickly finds out he has a way with horses, and is calm and in control in a crisis, but his resume doesn’t add up. With the internet, it is not hard to discover information about his past, what he had left behind, but seeing him in action around the ranch convinces her to hire him on a three month probation. With the help of a stray dog that draws them together, they gradually open up to each other about past losses, lost dreams and the need for something or someone new. The attraction between them is noticed by anyone who sees them...the stolen, hot glances, and the not so discreet checking each other out. They both decide that their time of mourning what was lost is over, and they gravitate to each other, giving into their mutual desires. While most are happy for them, someone is not, and is determined to derail their relationship.
I admire the strength of will, the determination in both Laura and Grayson. They both have endured so much pain, pain that nearly cost Grayson everything, but they have found their way forward in a life much different then they had imagined. They also haven’t lost their belief in love or their faith, and family is very important to them both. Together they can weather anything, the good, the bad and the dangerous plans someone has made for them. I can’t wait to read the next book to see what happens next to this fascinating couple!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I admire the strength of will, the determination in both Laura and Grayson. They both have endured so much pain, pain that nearly cost Grayson everything, but they have found their way forward in a life much different then they had imagined. They also haven’t lost their belief in love or their faith, and family is very important to them both. Together they can weather anything, the good, the bad and the dangerous plans someone has made for them. I can’t wait to read the next book to see what happens next to this fascinating couple!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2020
This is the first book in this series and I really look forward to reading the next one as it ended with such a cliff hanger and that was such a surprise. Laura and her brother's inherited the ranch after there parents died and now one of her ranch hands has stolen from them and they had to terminate his job and advertise for a new ranch hand. Grayson has applied for a job at the Kelsey Ranch but while he was being interviewed they heard gun shots and all ran to see what had happened. Laura and Grayson had gone through so much in there lives as they are both widows after there wife-husband were killed in difficult circumstances. Laura and Grayson had a strong connection and chemistry right from the start but will it be enough to get over there loss and get a second chance. I really loved this book so much with all its twists and turns and emotions and I had to keep turning the page's to see what would happen next and omg what a cliff hanger and I can't wait to read the next book. Sandy Appleyard is a brilliant author and writer and I definitely recommend you read this book and other's by her and you will definitely not be disappointed.
I Voluntarily Reviewed an ARC Copy of this book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed an ARC Copy of this book.
September 7, 2020
If I could give this book 10 stars I would do so.
What a wonderful story, but I was so excited at the end and
then you spoilt it by stopping at the most important part of the book.
Now I have to get the next book to see how it ends...........lol.
I just hope it has been released now.
The characters really worked so well together in the book and
I had a great connection with them as well.
I didn`t find any spelling mistakes or any holes in the plot of the book.
I give this book a very high recommendation for others over the age of 18+ to read.
You will love it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What a wonderful story, but I was so excited at the end and
then you spoilt it by stopping at the most important part of the book.
Now I have to get the next book to see how it ends...........lol.
I just hope it has been released now.
The characters really worked so well together in the book and
I had a great connection with them as well.
I didn`t find any spelling mistakes or any holes in the plot of the book.
I give this book a very high recommendation for others over the age of 18+ to read.
You will love it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 8, 2020
I've read several books written by Sandy Applyard; she has done a great job at writing a good book; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of books her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2020
A great start to a new series. The characters are realistic and easy to like. The story line pulls you in and holds you captive until you turn the last page. The pages are filled with action, adventure, a bit of suspense and mystery and of course romance. You don't want to miss this great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 10, 2020
This book hooked me from the get go I just couldn’t put it down I fell in love with these characters and omg what a story just a perfect read.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
September 7, 2020
This book is a different kind of story for Sandy. She filled it with very likable characters and a plot that kept my interest. She is good at describing scenes that appear before your eyes and sink right into your heart.
BUT – I am like my mom. I want to finish something now, not wait. I don’t like cliff-hangers! If you don’t either, then this is not the book for you. If you don’t mind waiting to finish your story, then this is a great choice for you.
BUT – I am like my mom. I want to finish something now, not wait. I don’t like cliff-hangers! If you don’t either, then this is not the book for you. If you don’t mind waiting to finish your story, then this is a great choice for you.
Read
September 7, 2020An engaging slow burn Cowboy romance in a small town. Both mains went through huge loss before finding each other. The ranch is like a family with plenty of family showing up on both sides. This is not a clean romance and there is some language. And, somewhere along the way I missed the memo that this is a cliffhanger!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 7, 2020
The first book in the A Town Without Pity series a well written story that held my interest until the end. Laura Warner and Grayson Thomas' story and just when it is getting good it ends on a cliff-hanger. I want to read the next book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 2, 2020
A very poignant love story offering two people a second chance at love after losing their first mates in very tragic ways. Laura had been a widow for ten years an she had not looked at another man. Grayson had been a widower for five years, and he had not looked at another woman. He came to the Kelsey Ranch looking to start over fresh trying to forget his past. What he found was his future. He and Laura were immediately attracted to each other and were comfortable sharing their past. After just a few days they felt like they had always been together. This book does end in a cliff hanger,so I cannot wait until the next one to see how it ends.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 3, 2020
No More Tears by Sandy Appleyard is the first book in her A Town Without Pity series and the one thing I struggle with the most….a CLIFFHANGER! The storyline was deep and intriguing, with an element of suspense and mystery to keep the reader engrossed, and the characters portrayals were credible and engaging. I was very invested in this story and now find myself frustrated and anxious for the next book and hopefully the conclusion to this saga.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 7, 2020
The chemistry, sweetness, and twists in plot kept things interesting.
Add in drama and passion and you have a good read.
This review has been voluntarily submitted for your consideration.
Add in drama and passion and you have a good read.
This review has been voluntarily submitted for your consideration.
August 29, 2020
The book is a good small town romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2020
I received this as an ARC. Grayson & Laura's story is inspiring. They both have their pasts to get over and when tragedy strikes Laura's ranch they lean on each other. This is a story of healing and rebuilding while also having suspense and action. I am anxiously awaiting Book 2 as this has a cliffhanger.
August 21, 2020
I enjoyed this story. I was surprised at the heat in this book, as most of Appleyard’s other books don’t have much of that. I enjoyed the suspense toward the end of the book - didn’t see that coming! I’m excited for this series to continue!
January 26, 2021
*Note: I received a free copy from the author through Voracious Readers in exchange for an honest review*
WOW! This book grabbed me right from the start and didn't let me go. If it wasn't for work and the need to sleep I would have read it all in one go.
A heartwarming, emotional rollercoaster that takes you on a journey through a second chance romance. The characters draw you in and are so well written you start to feel like you personally know them. And the cliffhanger...that's definitely one way to encourage people to read the next book in the series
WOW! This book grabbed me right from the start and didn't let me go. If it wasn't for work and the need to sleep I would have read it all in one go.
A heartwarming, emotional rollercoaster that takes you on a journey through a second chance romance. The characters draw you in and are so well written you start to feel like you personally know them. And the cliffhanger...that's definitely one way to encourage people to read the next book in the series
March 11, 2022
Received free from Voracious Readers
This is a new author for me. It started out full of promise, where the main characters meet then turned hot and heavy around the middle and from then on just got a bit cheesy until it ended in a frustrating cliffhanger!! I found the use of 1st person quite clumsy, especially where it switches between characters. At one point, the author seemed to get confused about whose turn it was, and some errors found from earlier on in the book, just slightly disappointing
This is a new author for me. It started out full of promise, where the main characters meet then turned hot and heavy around the middle and from then on just got a bit cheesy until it ended in a frustrating cliffhanger!! I found the use of 1st person quite clumsy, especially where it switches between characters. At one point, the author seemed to get confused about whose turn it was, and some errors found from earlier on in the book, just slightly disappointing
October 17, 2020
This is a sweet romance between a widow and a widower. Ended rather abruptly, but overall a great story. There are some adult scenes so not suitable for under 18 yrs. Hard to put down once I started the book. Can't wait to read the other books in the series. Definitely recommend.
I received a free ebook via Voracious Readers Only for my honest review.
I received a free ebook via Voracious Readers Only for my honest review.
January 17, 2021
All my troubles seem so far away or not?
Really enjoyed the way the book flowed, good characters with strong character.Some sadness and some joy.
I must confess that I wasn't thrilled with the ending but I look forward to book number two. If this book doesn't make you have feelings for people around you, then will.
Well Done, highly recommended, good read!!
Really enjoyed the way the book flowed, good characters with strong character.Some sadness and some joy.
I must confess that I wasn't thrilled with the ending but I look forward to book number two. If this book doesn't make you have feelings for people around you, then will.
Well Done, highly recommended, good read!!
October 21, 2020
The characters are amazingly written and engaging with undeniable connection. The storyline has great chemistry throughout the pages that had me hooked all the way through to the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 17, 2021
Huttonville. Louie (lead ranch hand) committed suicide. He was having financial problems. There are 6 kids, & Myrtle (wife/mother) who has her own serious medical issues, so it’s not likely he took out a health insurance policy.
Grayson Thomas (fraternal twin brother, former MD) had just moved from El Paso, TX & spoke to Laura Warner (widow, Kelsey Ranch owner) about the lead ranch hand job opening.
She interviewed him twice & with a little reluctance hired him.
Grayson meets Grace (cook), Wendy (college student), & the ranch hands: Ned (young), Edgar, Johnnie (horse expert), Louie, Simon (horse expert), Lloyd, Will, & Simon.
Later, is there a romance brewing in the air?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers &
authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written country romance book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another country romance great movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; ReadingDeals; Smashwords; BookFunnel; OddlyBooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Grayson Thomas (fraternal twin brother, former MD) had just moved from El Paso, TX & spoke to Laura Warner (widow, Kelsey Ranch owner) about the lead ranch hand job opening.
She interviewed him twice & with a little reluctance hired him.
Grayson meets Grace (cook), Wendy (college student), & the ranch hands: Ned (young), Edgar, Johnnie (horse expert), Louie, Simon (horse expert), Lloyd, Will, & Simon.
Later, is there a romance brewing in the air?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers &
authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written country romance book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another country romance great movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; ReadingDeals; Smashwords; BookFunnel; OddlyBooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews