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The Heart #2
The Heart of Him
The Heart series continues as Ashley Harrison sets her sights on James Brooks and sparks began to fly. This heartwarming story will have you laughing, cheering and wondering when someone will back-hand the Senator's daughter, stomp the brother and kill the ex-boyfriend, just to put them all out of their misery. Just as forever after is within James and Ashley's grasp the past comes back to haunt them threatening serious damage to a political campaign, an innocent child and Ashley's life.
282 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
About the author
Iris Bolling
52 books426 followersIris Bolling is an award-winning USA Today bestselling author of five series totaling over thirty romantic suspense novels. In addition to writing, she has produced and directed several books to film projects, and scriptwriting projects for other authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
January 14, 2012
James Brooks is no ordinary man.
Ashley Harrison is far from the average woman.
When one has met their match, someone has to surrender.
With James managing her brother's campaign for Attorney General of Virginia, Ashley learns why things are not what they always seem. Holding skeletons comes with a hefty price, including James'. Although the two are falling in love with each other, madness seems to make itself conveniently visible along the way.
Ashley has it in her mind that she could never complete James. Perhaps she cannot, with a former love looming in their lives. How can she overcome what she does not know?
It takes a special visit to bring the drama full force into Ashley's eyes. When James takes her home, it could be the worst mistake of his life, or someone else's.
Author Iris Bolling did not disappoint with her sophomore novel in The Heart Series. With Richmond, Virginia so vividly depicted in this novel, one cannot ignore her talents.
Ashley Harrison is far from the average woman.
When one has met their match, someone has to surrender.
With James managing her brother's campaign for Attorney General of Virginia, Ashley learns why things are not what they always seem. Holding skeletons comes with a hefty price, including James'. Although the two are falling in love with each other, madness seems to make itself conveniently visible along the way.
Ashley has it in her mind that she could never complete James. Perhaps she cannot, with a former love looming in their lives. How can she overcome what she does not know?
It takes a special visit to bring the drama full force into Ashley's eyes. When James takes her home, it could be the worst mistake of his life, or someone else's.
Author Iris Bolling did not disappoint with her sophomore novel in The Heart Series. With Richmond, Virginia so vividly depicted in this novel, one cannot ignore her talents.
October 21, 2011
After reading Once You've Touched The Heart The Heart Series I was very anxious to read this one to see how the story continued. Yes this story was mainly about Ashley and James, but all the other characters that were introduced in the 1st book make appearance and it makes this story even better. This was a solid romance with nice love scenes, and a good storyline to go with it. I can't wait to start the next book.
April 23, 2009
Another classic example of love
Author Iris Bolling has made a fan of me with this excellent spin off of "Once you've touched the Heart." I call it a spin off because Ashley Harrison and James Avery have taken the lead in this installment, while we are still informed of the on goings of JD Harrison and his lovely wife Tracy. Iris has brought the whole gang back and their bond is still strong. I love her writing style, her vivid description, and excellent story line. You will hate the villains and root for the main characters. This novel will take you on an emotional tailspin as you feel for these characters, as you hope with out a shadow of doubt that love will over come everything.
I MUST read the third part in this series. I can not wait to get my hands on it as Cynthia takes the lead in that one. I am sure it will be even better than the first two books as Ms. Bolling is just get getting better with each book. She is truly a force to be reckoned with and is making her name in this literary world. These novels need a disclaimer - *warning will keep you up past your bedtime, will make you late for work etc. etc.* I literary could not put this book down until the end and even then I was wishing I had part three to continue reading. Kudos to you Ms Bolling on a successful sequel!
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
Author Iris Bolling has made a fan of me with this excellent spin off of "Once you've touched the Heart." I call it a spin off because Ashley Harrison and James Avery have taken the lead in this installment, while we are still informed of the on goings of JD Harrison and his lovely wife Tracy. Iris has brought the whole gang back and their bond is still strong. I love her writing style, her vivid description, and excellent story line. You will hate the villains and root for the main characters. This novel will take you on an emotional tailspin as you feel for these characters, as you hope with out a shadow of doubt that love will over come everything.
I MUST read the third part in this series. I can not wait to get my hands on it as Cynthia takes the lead in that one. I am sure it will be even better than the first two books as Ms. Bolling is just get getting better with each book. She is truly a force to be reckoned with and is making her name in this literary world. These novels need a disclaimer - *warning will keep you up past your bedtime, will make you late for work etc. etc.* I literary could not put this book down until the end and even then I was wishing I had part three to continue reading. Kudos to you Ms Bolling on a successful sequel!
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
April 9, 2009
What a wonderful continuation to the Heart Series...Mrs. Bolling has created a highly ENTERTAINING follow-up to her debut, "Once You've Touched the Heart"..this REFRESHING and captivating tale is filled with love, politics, suspense and all the drama of the Harrison family and their ever-growing circle of friends...the cast of characters, main and secondary are colorful and so UNFORGETTABLE...not too mention the witty and ENGAGING dialogue that will definitely keep you turning the pages...I CAN'T wait to get my hands on the next book in this DELIGHTFUL series. Well done, Mrs. Bolling!
October 1, 2019
Lord, Vernon is annoying. This was a good read. It just annoys me how the men keep things away from the women. You can't watch for what you're not expecting. I also felt that Ashley really didn't think of her safety much in this story. You were almost raped and beaten by an ex boyfriend in college who continually pops up in your life and threatens you, but you've never gotten a protection order? You've never taken self defense or used your right to bare arms? You chose to live in a condo with no doorman? You LEAVE a spare key outside in the same spot you left it when you were dating said abuser. Like, was she TRYING to get attacked?
Her brother is a defense attorney for God's sake. You know what goes on and you live in a city with a high crime rate. It just didn't make any sense that she didn't protect herself.
And let me repeat, WHY does this author write Alpha males who act like the woman can't know what's going on. If you let people know there's real danger out there (though, in James' defense Ashley should have kept constant vigilance since her ex continually man handled her and even choked her out at one point) so that they can watch out for themselves.
Outside of having lead women who don't do anything to protect themselves and rely heavily on men, I really enjoyed this book.
Her brother is a defense attorney for God's sake. You know what goes on and you live in a city with a high crime rate. It just didn't make any sense that she didn't protect herself.
And let me repeat, WHY does this author write Alpha males who act like the woman can't know what's going on. If you let people know there's real danger out there (though, in James' defense Ashley should have kept constant vigilance since her ex continually man handled her and even choked her out at one point) so that they can watch out for themselves.
Outside of having lead women who don't do anything to protect themselves and rely heavily on men, I really enjoyed this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2018
Second book in the series, not as good as the first, but still worthy of your money and time.
November 16, 2024
His heart Her protector
Ashley had a great father but life changed for her once he died. In college she got hooked up with a real loser. Life changed when her new roommate entered her life. Years later her roommate would bring her husband into her life. Life changed for James Brooks when he met Ashley Harrison. James had been brutally wounded in the area of love. Ashley brought life to a heart he thought would never heal. James felt a level of protection for her that made him see red. Ashley's past came back to haunt her and James went all in to protect her. Some interesting things came to light along the way. Fabulous read..
Ashley had a great father but life changed for her once he died. In college she got hooked up with a real loser. Life changed when her new roommate entered her life. Years later her roommate would bring her husband into her life. Life changed for James Brooks when he met Ashley Harrison. James had been brutally wounded in the area of love. Ashley brought life to a heart he thought would never heal. James felt a level of protection for her that made him see red. Ashley's past came back to haunt her and James went all in to protect her. Some interesting things came to light along the way. Fabulous read..
November 1, 2011
THE HEART SERIES.
“The Heart of Him” is the second book in author Iris Bolling’s The Heart Series. I fell in love with the characters from the first book “Once You’ve Touched The Heart” so I couldn’t wait to feast my eyes on this follow up which focuses on Ashley and James’ story.
Both Ashley and James were somewhat guarded with each other, even with the strong pull of mutual attraction. But they decided to go for all when their hearts spoke louder than their minds and refused to be ignored, love ultimately prevailed.
James already knowing Ashley’s family and gaining a lot of respect for them in the past year, left Ashley with almost nothing to hide about her past...almost. But James was not forthcoming with vital information about his past and family.
What will become of this couple when James’ past is revealed and a psychopath from Ashley’s past tries to break this couple…permanently?
Politics is still a major subplot in the story and this is where the friendships, respect, and trust, shines between the characters. Followers will remember that JD Harrison and friends are on a mission but things aren't as smooth sailing as they would like it to be. And Caroline... what is this jealous vixen up to now??!! Yes indeed plenty going on in this read!
It's a wonderful thing when I'm transported right into the story and feel like I’m a part of each and every scene.
With a keen eye on her timelines, Ms Bolling delivers smooth, detailed, emotional, reading with passionately driven characters. Another recommended book by this author!
The is an ARC Certified Read!
Locksie November 11th 2011
ARC Book Club Inc
Star Rating 5.00*****
“The Heart of Him” is the second book in author Iris Bolling’s The Heart Series. I fell in love with the characters from the first book “Once You’ve Touched The Heart” so I couldn’t wait to feast my eyes on this follow up which focuses on Ashley and James’ story.
Both Ashley and James were somewhat guarded with each other, even with the strong pull of mutual attraction. But they decided to go for all when their hearts spoke louder than their minds and refused to be ignored, love ultimately prevailed.
James already knowing Ashley’s family and gaining a lot of respect for them in the past year, left Ashley with almost nothing to hide about her past...almost. But James was not forthcoming with vital information about his past and family.
What will become of this couple when James’ past is revealed and a psychopath from Ashley’s past tries to break this couple…permanently?
Politics is still a major subplot in the story and this is where the friendships, respect, and trust, shines between the characters. Followers will remember that JD Harrison and friends are on a mission but things aren't as smooth sailing as they would like it to be. And Caroline... what is this jealous vixen up to now??!! Yes indeed plenty going on in this read!
It's a wonderful thing when I'm transported right into the story and feel like I’m a part of each and every scene.
With a keen eye on her timelines, Ms Bolling delivers smooth, detailed, emotional, reading with passionately driven characters. Another recommended book by this author!
The is an ARC Certified Read!
Locksie November 11th 2011
ARC Book Club Inc
Star Rating 5.00*****
April 18, 2013
I really did enjoy reading Ashley and James story. It was moving,exciing, there was a plot an the build up til they finally connected had me reading well into the evening. I was so happy that they actually came to discover true love and trust. Iris has a way of telling a story that will have you wanting more and more! So glad there are 4 more stories to be told! Thanks Iris,on to the next!
February 18, 2016
Love this series so far.
I'm obsessed with this series and I'm only on book 2. Very few books can actually make me laugh out loud and tear up. This one did both! Ugh I still can't stand Carolyn, still don't trust Lena, completely. LOVE James & Ashley and Tracy & JD. I could through a whole series with jus those 4. Brian is hilarious to me! Cant wait to start book 3!
I'm obsessed with this series and I'm only on book 2. Very few books can actually make me laugh out loud and tear up. This one did both! Ugh I still can't stand Carolyn, still don't trust Lena, completely. LOVE James & Ashley and Tracy & JD. I could through a whole series with jus those 4. Brian is hilarious to me! Cant wait to start book 3!
May 17, 2012
So far I am enjoying reading Ashley and James' story.
May 20, 2019
Amazing Series
I could not put this book down!!! I am totally looking forward to finishing the entire series!!! She definitely leaves you wanting more!
I could not put this book down!!! I am totally looking forward to finishing the entire series!!! She definitely leaves you wanting more!
November 18, 2023
After reading the first book, I had serious doubts James and Ashley would make it work. I never really thought age was a major issue. It only seemed to be an issue with James.
I liked that the men in this book were very protective of the women. I didn't like that their protection extended to the point that they didn't keep the women fully informed so they could protect themselves. Or, at least stay on the lookout for sketchy people and situations.
I don't know what my girl Ashley was thinking. She took NO responsibility for attempting to protect herself. She didn't lead a sheltered life. She didn't live in a small town, someone she knew attempted SA while she was in college, and her brother was an ADA. We won't even discuss the key situation. How do you continually leave yourself unprotected?
This was an entertaining story full of drama, both political and personal. There was also a sense of love, romance, heat, loyalty, and family woven throughout the book. It was great to see characters from the previous book and get updates on their current situations.
I was glad that James and Ashlry got their HEA.
The Heart of Him came in at a very close second to the first book. 4.5 stars.
I liked that the men in this book were very protective of the women. I didn't like that their protection extended to the point that they didn't keep the women fully informed so they could protect themselves. Or, at least stay on the lookout for sketchy people and situations.
I don't know what my girl Ashley was thinking. She took NO responsibility for attempting to protect herself. She didn't lead a sheltered life. She didn't live in a small town, someone she knew attempted SA while she was in college, and her brother was an ADA. We won't even discuss the key situation. How do you continually leave yourself unprotected?
This was an entertaining story full of drama, both political and personal. There was also a sense of love, romance, heat, loyalty, and family woven throughout the book. It was great to see characters from the previous book and get updates on their current situations.
I was glad that James and Ashlry got their HEA.
The Heart of Him came in at a very close second to the first book. 4.5 stars.
April 10, 2022
I love the Brooks and Harrison families!
It took some doing to finally get James and Ashley to the altar twins and all! This one like JD and Tracy's story had me tearing up from time to time as well as affording me much comic relief! This story showed that politics with the wrong motive and intent is a seriously dirty business. I grew up hearing my parents saying that "hell has no fury like a woman scorned". That statement is especially true when you add spoiled rotten to the scorned woman then you have a dangerous situation that left unaddressed had the propensity to derail three political careers and doom the future of democracy! So glad 1) that cooler heads prevailed 2) James put a whupping on David and 3) Carolyn finally got her comeuppance! I am so glad I added these books to my library! Yet another great suspense story Mrs. Bolling, thank you!
It took some doing to finally get James and Ashley to the altar twins and all! This one like JD and Tracy's story had me tearing up from time to time as well as affording me much comic relief! This story showed that politics with the wrong motive and intent is a seriously dirty business. I grew up hearing my parents saying that "hell has no fury like a woman scorned". That statement is especially true when you add spoiled rotten to the scorned woman then you have a dangerous situation that left unaddressed had the propensity to derail three political careers and doom the future of democracy! So glad 1) that cooler heads prevailed 2) James put a whupping on David and 3) Carolyn finally got her comeuppance! I am so glad I added these books to my library! Yet another great suspense story Mrs. Bolling, thank you!
January 9, 2024
This is yet another reread of this book. James and Ashley are my favorite couple in this series. After reading the first book in the series I really liked James and Ashley's characters and could not wait to read their story. I thoroughly enjoyed their book. Their story was moving and heartfelt. Ashley was the right woman to heal James' heart and reconnect him with his family and James was the man she needed to show her the love and gentleness that a real man provides to the woman he loves. Besides their story, the parallel stories were good, and they all converged nicely. Iris has a way of telling a story that will have you wanting more and more! I will probably go back and reread the entire series for the 5th time. That's what always happens when I reread one of them.
August 2, 2017
A crazy love story!!
I am not sure how many people are as insecure about relationships as these characters! I was a bit upset about all the self head talk, buy I knew everything would work out! Is David Holt still alive?? I bought this whole series and my curiosity is burning to find out what comes next! I enjoyed the characters and the book, overall. Thanks, Ms. Bolling! The Sistah Girl Book Reading Club I belong to is wild about your books!!
I am not sure how many people are as insecure about relationships as these characters! I was a bit upset about all the self head talk, buy I knew everything would work out! Is David Holt still alive?? I bought this whole series and my curiosity is burning to find out what comes next! I enjoyed the characters and the book, overall. Thanks, Ms. Bolling! The Sistah Girl Book Reading Club I belong to is wild about your books!!
February 4, 2021
James A. Brooks is in love with Ashley Harrison. Let's not dispute that fact in spite of his insecurities however David Holt is obsessed by Ashley Harrison. While in college he decided that no woman would ever turn him down an he meant that. Any man that would sleep with his wife while obsess about another woman is crazy. Fast paced, suspenseful yet romance. Political games, power an wealth will connect several families, foes an friends.
June 8, 2025
His heart
Not surprising, ooh what a Wonderful read. I read The Brooks series first and now reading The Heart series just keeps things moving. James, don’t mess with him or he will have you hanging with one hand. Ashley, strong, confident and vulnerable, but the perfect woman for James.
Every book and series blends perfectly. Iris Bolling is a top notch author. On to the next
Not surprising, ooh what a Wonderful read. I read The Brooks series first and now reading The Heart series just keeps things moving. James, don’t mess with him or he will have you hanging with one hand. Ashley, strong, confident and vulnerable, but the perfect woman for James.
Every book and series blends perfectly. Iris Bolling is a top notch author. On to the next
May 6, 2023
Loved it
I just love Ashely and James story. It was very interesting to see James fall for someone younger. He is rich and fine. Whew I need a man like James in my life. He is a provider, love family and friends. But will kick a.. when need to. Ashely had a crazy man after her butt he was there to save the day just like her loving sister-in-law. You must read 5his series.
I just love Ashely and James story. It was very interesting to see James fall for someone younger. He is rich and fine. Whew I need a man like James in my life. He is a provider, love family and friends. But will kick a.. when need to. Ashely had a crazy man after her butt he was there to save the day just like her loving sister-in-law. You must read 5his series.
June 11, 2019
MsLady
Awesome awesome awesome love your writing style just enough mystery and intrigue to keep you wondering what’s next. Definitely a page turner, now onto book number three to see what’s going on in Cynthia‘s life.
Awesome awesome awesome love your writing style just enough mystery and intrigue to keep you wondering what’s next. Definitely a page turner, now onto book number three to see what’s going on in Cynthia‘s life.
March 29, 2021
James Brooks is a very conservatine man. He is drawn to Ashley Harrison who is a much younger and very vibrant person. Their story has a lot of twists and turns. Ashley had a bad experience in college that she was forced to tell others about. It was a great story.
July 17, 2021
Love conquers all
Ashley and Tracy's friendship was unbreakable but what she found with James was a love of a lifetime. Whatever tried to bring them all down they came through together.
Ashley and Tracy's friendship was unbreakable but what she found with James was a love of a lifetime. Whatever tried to bring them all down they came through together.
February 3, 2022
This series is fantastic
I like the real deal of the various families and how it flows with everyone so in each book to book instead of each book only includes one family per book. It keeps up with all
I like the real deal of the various families and how it flows with everyone so in each book to book instead of each book only includes one family per book. It keeps up with all
November 29, 2022
page turner
This was not a disappointment Iris Boiling always come through. I could not stop reading this book if I tried. I was sad to see Ashley and James story end, then I realized it was just beginning.
This was not a disappointment Iris Boiling always come through. I could not stop reading this book if I tried. I was sad to see Ashley and James story end, then I realized it was just beginning.
May 12, 2023
Love is everlasting
I have enjoyed this set of books that let you see the things that we sometimes go through to get the life that God want us to have some time we must wait for it.
I have enjoyed this set of books that let you see the things that we sometimes go through to get the life that God want us to have some time we must wait for it.
September 30, 2019
Good storyline but the end left a bad taste for me because it was abrupt and left me up in the air.
September 5, 2021
Great series
This series has a lot things some people experience in their life. But mostly love intrigue and jealousy. But a good read.
This series has a lot things some people experience in their life. But mostly love intrigue and jealousy. But a good read.
January 15, 2022
Very Good
Iris Bolling you write some very good books. Ashley found love in James. He cherishes and protects her. I am glad reconciled with his family.
Iris Bolling you write some very good books. Ashley found love in James. He cherishes and protects her. I am glad reconciled with his family.
January 23, 2022
I could not put it down!
May 8, 2022
Amazing!
The Heart of Him was a great read. I laughed, cried, and was on the edge of my seat as I read it. The stories keep getting better and better. I can't wait to read book 3.
The Heart of Him was a great read. I laughed, cried, and was on the edge of my seat as I read it. The stories keep getting better and better. I can't wait to read book 3.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews