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Elements of the Heart #2
Watch Me Burn
I was a loner in this small town and far from the son my father wanted. What I did only made it worse.
Two guys from the lacrosse team jumped me.
They would have killed me if I didn’t fight back. Only once I started, I couldn’t stop myself.
The cops arrested me. The town raged against me. The judge made an example out of me.
I was a criminal.
Everyone abandoned me except my little sister.
Ten years later, she’s set to marry one of the men that destroyed my life.
And all she wants is her big brother at her side.
As if that wasn’t enough of a headache, in walks an opinionated blonde with a cabin reservation at my lodge.
The minute Natalie Bell steps out of her fancy car with designer high heels it's obvious the city girl doesn’t fit out in the wilderness.
But that doesn’t stop her from standing next to me against my biggest enemies and waging a new war in my heart.
They’re trying to put me back up on that stake. But I'm a different man and I’ll protect Natalie, no matter the cost.
The fire that rages in my chest used to be fueled by hate.
Now, I only burn for her.
Two guys from the lacrosse team jumped me.
They would have killed me if I didn’t fight back. Only once I started, I couldn’t stop myself.
The cops arrested me. The town raged against me. The judge made an example out of me.
I was a criminal.
Everyone abandoned me except my little sister.
Ten years later, she’s set to marry one of the men that destroyed my life.
And all she wants is her big brother at her side.
As if that wasn’t enough of a headache, in walks an opinionated blonde with a cabin reservation at my lodge.
The minute Natalie Bell steps out of her fancy car with designer high heels it's obvious the city girl doesn’t fit out in the wilderness.
But that doesn’t stop her from standing next to me against my biggest enemies and waging a new war in my heart.
They’re trying to put me back up on that stake. But I'm a different man and I’ll protect Natalie, no matter the cost.
The fire that rages in my chest used to be fueled by hate.
Now, I only burn for her.
- GenresContemporaryRomance
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2021
51 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
About the author
C.E. Johnson
16 books321 followersC.E. Johnson writes protective hero romance with a side of suspense!
She wrote her first book in 2017 and hasn't stopped writing since. C.E. is best known for her romantic suspense series, The Elements of the Heart, which features protective heroes, strong heroines in danger, small town feels, and love that will have your heart swelling.
She's a dog lover, iced coffee enthusiast, and dreams of living in a cabin deep in the woods one day like so many of her characters do.
C.E. Johnson currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, two kids, and a bunch of spoiled rotten animals.
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She wrote her first book in 2017 and hasn't stopped writing since. C.E. is best known for her romantic suspense series, The Elements of the Heart, which features protective heroes, strong heroines in danger, small town feels, and love that will have your heart swelling.
She's a dog lover, iced coffee enthusiast, and dreams of living in a cabin deep in the woods one day like so many of her characters do.
C.E. Johnson currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, two kids, and a bunch of spoiled rotten animals.
Want to stay up to date on all the latest news, sales, giveaways, and releases?
Sign up for my newsletter! https://goo.gl/4yo6Rg
Follow me on Facebook! https://goo.gl/84dZJN
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 2, 2021
From the Moment Gil showed up in Watch Me Drown I wanted his story, and CE Johnson did not disappoint!
Natalie leaves the Penthouse she shared with her cheating ex and heads home to stay with her parents with her tail between her legs. Before she makes it she decides she can’t face them yet and she needs some time away. Time away from everything...work, parents, and definitely men. She gets the number from a friend to stay at a cabin in the woods. Perfect....right? Until she shows up and the first person she sees is a hot guy in a flannel. To bad he opens his mouth and out comes a**hole.
Owen just wants to live his life and be left alone on his land. He wants to leave his past behind, but he can’t seem to shake it. Since his sister is marrying one of the men that ruined his life, he might not ever be able to. He didn’t expect some city girl with sky high stilettos and fancy clothes to interrupt his quiet seclusion.
Between crazy town folk, fires, and ruined weddings, there’s never a shortage of trouble. But through it all Natalie and Owen find each other and a love they didn’t know could exist.
Can they come through it all and be happy together or will their pasts catch up with them and burn it all down?
If you like slow to medium burns, with a protective and possessive male, a female with some bite, and friendships that last a lifetime, then you’ll love this book as much as I did. Whacks story can’t come soon enough ❤️❤️
Natalie leaves the Penthouse she shared with her cheating ex and heads home to stay with her parents with her tail between her legs. Before she makes it she decides she can’t face them yet and she needs some time away. Time away from everything...work, parents, and definitely men. She gets the number from a friend to stay at a cabin in the woods. Perfect....right? Until she shows up and the first person she sees is a hot guy in a flannel. To bad he opens his mouth and out comes a**hole.
Owen just wants to live his life and be left alone on his land. He wants to leave his past behind, but he can’t seem to shake it. Since his sister is marrying one of the men that ruined his life, he might not ever be able to. He didn’t expect some city girl with sky high stilettos and fancy clothes to interrupt his quiet seclusion.
Between crazy town folk, fires, and ruined weddings, there’s never a shortage of trouble. But through it all Natalie and Owen find each other and a love they didn’t know could exist.
Can they come through it all and be happy together or will their pasts catch up with them and burn it all down?
If you like slow to medium burns, with a protective and possessive male, a female with some bite, and friendships that last a lifetime, then you’ll love this book as much as I did. Whacks story can’t come soon enough ❤️❤️
March 31, 2021
All I can say is... You're going to have to limber up those fingers, because this one is definitely a page turner. I don't know about you, but I've been waiting for Owen's book and C.E. Johnson did not disappoint.
She's fashion and used to finer things you tend to find in the city, but after a breakup she needs a break and going home to her parents is not feeling like the best option. A last minute decision a kind voice on the other end of the phone line lands her with a cabin at Hideaway Lodge. Now she has a little time to herself to figure things out. No distractions. No parents. No men. Oh, look... A flaming hot man in a flannel.
He's rugged and prefers the seclusion of the wilderness. Owen didn't know it at the time, but when Natalie pulled up to the lodge and got out of that car his life was about to change. He never would have guessed this woman in designer high heels would be the one to stand up for him when so many others never did.
This book has romance, suspense, and sizzle. I really enjoyed this read and I'm definitely looking forward to Whack's story. Enjoy!
She's fashion and used to finer things you tend to find in the city, but after a breakup she needs a break and going home to her parents is not feeling like the best option. A last minute decision a kind voice on the other end of the phone line lands her with a cabin at Hideaway Lodge. Now she has a little time to herself to figure things out. No distractions. No parents. No men. Oh, look... A flaming hot man in a flannel.
He's rugged and prefers the seclusion of the wilderness. Owen didn't know it at the time, but when Natalie pulled up to the lodge and got out of that car his life was about to change. He never would have guessed this woman in designer high heels would be the one to stand up for him when so many others never did.
This book has romance, suspense, and sizzle. I really enjoyed this read and I'm definitely looking forward to Whack's story. Enjoy!
March 30, 2021
Watch Me Burn is a romantic suspense that set my heart on fire in more ways than one! This is CE Johnson’s best book to date and an absolute favorite of mine for 2021.
Natalie and Owen start out wanting nothing to do with each other, but they couldn’t have been more wrong. Owen has this simmering intensity that will have you swooning, but he also has this fierce pain and devastation that most don’t understand or even care about. Natalie is beautiful and may look designer, but she has this sweetness and vulnerability that I found so endearing. When these two come together to protect each other, you won’t believe the twists and turns that occur. You need to read this book for the heels, the blue bird, the cotton candy suckers, the bacon and the emails alone. This story will have you on the edge of your seat as the fire blazes from every direction, but the hope, loyalty, love and second chances glow so bright they won’t ever burn out.
Tracey, Life Reads With Friends Blog
Natalie and Owen start out wanting nothing to do with each other, but they couldn’t have been more wrong. Owen has this simmering intensity that will have you swooning, but he also has this fierce pain and devastation that most don’t understand or even care about. Natalie is beautiful and may look designer, but she has this sweetness and vulnerability that I found so endearing. When these two come together to protect each other, you won’t believe the twists and turns that occur. You need to read this book for the heels, the blue bird, the cotton candy suckers, the bacon and the emails alone. This story will have you on the edge of your seat as the fire blazes from every direction, but the hope, loyalty, love and second chances glow so bright they won’t ever burn out.
Tracey, Life Reads With Friends Blog
March 30, 2021
Natalie a woman from a great family, decides to run away to a mountain lodge after being dumped, arriving in her cherry red audi, high end clothes and stilettos, she meets Owen a sexy flannel wearing man with a rough past.
I really enjoyed this book, it was a story of adventure, laughs and love. Of two families coming together.
Finally I can say I'm not the only one who can't cook breakfast if their life depended on it. 🤣
I really enjoyed this book, it was a story of adventure, laughs and love. Of two families coming together.
Finally I can say I'm not the only one who can't cook breakfast if their life depended on it. 🤣
October 28, 2022
Fabulous read
## Outstanding. Loved this book so much. Owen (Gill) and Natalie were so good together. Their meet cute wasn't so cute, but fun nonetheless, lol. Sparks were flying all over the place. I adored Natalie. So she liked designer clothes. Who cares? She was a great person with a huge heart. Owen was fantastic as well. But his family? Wow, what horrible people. Shame on his sister. She was portrayed as a positive character....hmm. Not to me. I would NEVER marry a man who hurt my brother so badly. All he had to do is tell the truth, yet he didn't and ultimately sent Owen to prison. And making him attend her wedding in front of all the people who bullied him for YEARS was extremely selfish. I loved that Natalie's parents stepped up and treated him with the respect he deserved. I'm not sure I'll read Whack's story since he has a dead wife. Frankly that's my least favorite trope. All the guilt and comparisons are excruciating. I'll have to give it some thought because the 1st two books were amazing.
## Outstanding. Loved this book so much. Owen (Gill) and Natalie were so good together. Their meet cute wasn't so cute, but fun nonetheless, lol. Sparks were flying all over the place. I adored Natalie. So she liked designer clothes. Who cares? She was a great person with a huge heart. Owen was fantastic as well. But his family? Wow, what horrible people. Shame on his sister. She was portrayed as a positive character....hmm. Not to me. I would NEVER marry a man who hurt my brother so badly. All he had to do is tell the truth, yet he didn't and ultimately sent Owen to prison. And making him attend her wedding in front of all the people who bullied him for YEARS was extremely selfish. I loved that Natalie's parents stepped up and treated him with the respect he deserved. I'm not sure I'll read Whack's story since he has a dead wife. Frankly that's my least favorite trope. All the guilt and comparisons are excruciating. I'll have to give it some thought because the 1st two books were amazing.
March 20, 2021
Watch Me Burn
(Elements of the Heart #2)
Written by C.E. Johnson
Watch Me Burn has a tarnished hero and a vintage princess who are both in need of someone they can depend on, someone they can help and someone who they could grow to love.
Natalie has literally just walked out of a relationship where she gave but got little in return; her trust destroyed she needed to get away from what she had known to come to terms with what she had lost and decide how to rebuild.
Owen owns a vacation lodge and it’s there that Natalie ends up. It’s in the country with lots of outdoor activities (which she hates) and Owen the grumpy owner. It doesn’t take long for Natalie to win Owen’s trust. After leaving in a huff she quickly returns to tell Owen there is a group of men who are coming to hurt him, giving him time to prepare. This the first time that both our main characters realize that maybe they might be able to help each other.
As the days pass their attraction to each other grows and where you find sparks you find the steam and combustion that finally brings them together.
Threats are made, there is a loss that almost breaks Owen’s resolve and they share truths about why they are both searching for the same thing, someone to trust, and someone to love. It is a story filled with angst, suspense, and hurtful memories, trust issues and a twist I did not see coming.
Watch Me Burn was exactly what I expected and more. C.E. Johnson brings characters who are damaged yet work together. She brings back old friends who willingly support a friend and she keeps readers turning pages as they continually say “just one more chapter.” She brings the city girl in heels to a southern country boy who feels empty inside and when the past seems to be replaying itself, she is there for him. There are highs and lows, but loyal friends and new family are there when needed.
C.E. Johnson brings the burn, the heat and another amazing story of redemption and love.
(Elements of the Heart #2)
Written by C.E. Johnson
Watch Me Burn has a tarnished hero and a vintage princess who are both in need of someone they can depend on, someone they can help and someone who they could grow to love.
Natalie has literally just walked out of a relationship where she gave but got little in return; her trust destroyed she needed to get away from what she had known to come to terms with what she had lost and decide how to rebuild.
Owen owns a vacation lodge and it’s there that Natalie ends up. It’s in the country with lots of outdoor activities (which she hates) and Owen the grumpy owner. It doesn’t take long for Natalie to win Owen’s trust. After leaving in a huff she quickly returns to tell Owen there is a group of men who are coming to hurt him, giving him time to prepare. This the first time that both our main characters realize that maybe they might be able to help each other.
As the days pass their attraction to each other grows and where you find sparks you find the steam and combustion that finally brings them together.
Threats are made, there is a loss that almost breaks Owen’s resolve and they share truths about why they are both searching for the same thing, someone to trust, and someone to love. It is a story filled with angst, suspense, and hurtful memories, trust issues and a twist I did not see coming.
Watch Me Burn was exactly what I expected and more. C.E. Johnson brings characters who are damaged yet work together. She brings back old friends who willingly support a friend and she keeps readers turning pages as they continually say “just one more chapter.” She brings the city girl in heels to a southern country boy who feels empty inside and when the past seems to be replaying itself, she is there for him. There are highs and lows, but loyal friends and new family are there when needed.
C.E. Johnson brings the burn, the heat and another amazing story of redemption and love.
March 30, 2021
Misty's Corner Review
:
I loved this book so much! It feels as if author C.E. Johnson has written this cast of characters straight into my heart! Gill's disturbing past with his tarnished and abused persona pairs exquisitely with Natalie's exploited yet sweet-to-the-soul core. I won't rehash the whole book; you can find that in the book blurb - but I will say this, I felt wholly in awe of Gill. No one should have to go through the things this man has gone through. I'm so happy he had Natalie by his side, especially in the end; alpha or not, Gill's vulnerability with his woman was utterly swoon-worthy!
It was so much fun reading "Watch Me Burn," there was the romance between our two lovebirds, the suspense of who was behind what was happening around them, AND the added interactions between the guys from book one with each other and Natalie! I laughed out loud several times and rooted for these characters so hard; their loyalty and love knows no bounds. I love it when I read a book that completely sucks me in from start to finish; this is precisely what C.E. Johnson has done with this story! Even though this is book two in the series, it can be read as a standalone; however, I'd suggest reading these in order for added enjoyment! I devoured Everest's & Dani's story in book one just as much, and I'm already desperately waiting for Whack's tale in book three! I would 100% recommend this to ALL romantic suspense fans!
Many thanks to @AuthorCEJohnson and @WildfireMarketingSolutions for my advanced copy of "Watch Me Burn". 5🔥
Thanks for reading!
Misty M. @MistysCornerReviews
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I loved this book so much! It feels as if author C.E. Johnson has written this cast of characters straight into my heart! Gill's disturbing past with his tarnished and abused persona pairs exquisitely with Natalie's exploited yet sweet-to-the-soul core. I won't rehash the whole book; you can find that in the book blurb - but I will say this, I felt wholly in awe of Gill. No one should have to go through the things this man has gone through. I'm so happy he had Natalie by his side, especially in the end; alpha or not, Gill's vulnerability with his woman was utterly swoon-worthy!
It was so much fun reading "Watch Me Burn," there was the romance between our two lovebirds, the suspense of who was behind what was happening around them, AND the added interactions between the guys from book one with each other and Natalie! I laughed out loud several times and rooted for these characters so hard; their loyalty and love knows no bounds. I love it when I read a book that completely sucks me in from start to finish; this is precisely what C.E. Johnson has done with this story! Even though this is book two in the series, it can be read as a standalone; however, I'd suggest reading these in order for added enjoyment! I devoured Everest's & Dani's story in book one just as much, and I'm already desperately waiting for Whack's tale in book three! I would 100% recommend this to ALL romantic suspense fans!
Many thanks to @AuthorCEJohnson and @WildfireMarketingSolutions for my advanced copy of "Watch Me Burn". 5🔥
Thanks for reading!
Misty M. @MistysCornerReviews
——————————————
Follow Me:
Blog | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Pinterest | GoodReads | BookBub
March 31, 2021
Watch Me Burn is much more than I expected. Natalie is a stiletto city girl used to high end and luxurious life style. When she escapes the pain of a broken relationship she ends up in a laid back cabin in the woods, with a rough around the edges owner, named Owen. You will enjoy their banter and fall in love with them!
This book will take you on a journey of pain, discovery and suspense while focusing on friendship, loyalty and love between them and Owen’s best friends as well. An all around good feels book that will own your heart.
Owen’s dark past burns deep but not as deep as the feelings he starts to develop towards Natalie. Be prepared to watch him burn with the right amount of passion and desire.
I love CE Johnson’s writing style. She has an amazing way with her words and each chapter is finished with so much intensity that you can’t put the book down. This book is just another example of her perfection. You need to dive in. Don’t miss this one out.
BTW, you will have a new passion for lemon-lime soda and glazed donuts! Believe me, I now do too :) Oh, yeah let’s not forget Whack’s obsession with suckers. Can’t wait for his book next.
Nanedsmomba- reviewer and blogger for Life Reads with Friends
This book will take you on a journey of pain, discovery and suspense while focusing on friendship, loyalty and love between them and Owen’s best friends as well. An all around good feels book that will own your heart.
Owen’s dark past burns deep but not as deep as the feelings he starts to develop towards Natalie. Be prepared to watch him burn with the right amount of passion and desire.
I love CE Johnson’s writing style. She has an amazing way with her words and each chapter is finished with so much intensity that you can’t put the book down. This book is just another example of her perfection. You need to dive in. Don’t miss this one out.
BTW, you will have a new passion for lemon-lime soda and glazed donuts! Believe me, I now do too :) Oh, yeah let’s not forget Whack’s obsession with suckers. Can’t wait for his book next.
Nanedsmomba- reviewer and blogger for Life Reads with Friends
March 27, 2021
I've been burned my entire life. Nothing hurts me anymore.
Before I start gushing about how amazing this book is I just want to say a big thank you to @authorcejohnson for giving me the chance to read the ARC. It felt like I'd be waiting forever but we are finally here and it was sooo worth the wait.
C.E. Johnson does this incredible thing were she balances romance and suspense together to take you on a heck of a ride and Watch Me Burn was exactly that. I couldn't put it down and was constantly making excuses to leave the housework just a little longer.
Owen is just everything. I loved how protective and loyal he was and how he had a little bit of edge that made you want to understand what he's been through.
Natalie was so relatable and I feel like her journey was so inspiring and had motivated me to help myself heal through some of the similar circumstances she's also been through. I loved how much they developed and grew in themselves but also with each other.
Watch Me Burn was such an amazing story. Everyone go check out this incredible book and C.E.'s first story Watch Me Drown you won't regret it!!
Before I start gushing about how amazing this book is I just want to say a big thank you to @authorcejohnson for giving me the chance to read the ARC. It felt like I'd be waiting forever but we are finally here and it was sooo worth the wait.
C.E. Johnson does this incredible thing were she balances romance and suspense together to take you on a heck of a ride and Watch Me Burn was exactly that. I couldn't put it down and was constantly making excuses to leave the housework just a little longer.
Owen is just everything. I loved how protective and loyal he was and how he had a little bit of edge that made you want to understand what he's been through.
Natalie was so relatable and I feel like her journey was so inspiring and had motivated me to help myself heal through some of the similar circumstances she's also been through. I loved how much they developed and grew in themselves but also with each other.
Watch Me Burn was such an amazing story. Everyone go check out this incredible book and C.E.'s first story Watch Me Drown you won't regret it!!
March 30, 2021
This book was utterly amazing! When we first meet Natalie, she isn’t having the best day ever and she is down on her luck, but a quick snap decision has her ending up on Owen’s doorstep. They don’t get off on the best foot, Owen comes off as angry and Natalie comes off as being a tad too pretentious, and I even had my doubts about her at first. Even though she came across that way she grew on me and showed me there was so much more to her character especially when she gave Owen the chance to redeem his moody ways. Owen had my heart hurting with everything he had endured in his life and the injustice he suffered through. I was enraged for him and wanted to stand by his side, encourage him, and just give him a huge hug, the author wrote an amazing story with characters that you absolutely love and some you absolutely want to smack, with a story of twists and emotionally charged love story. Natalie showed Owen he deserved so much and even if his family treated him horribly, he was loved by so many and so much. Whack is a character that I loved and can’t wait for his story I just know it will be just as amazing and emotional as Owen’s was.
March 30, 2021
Absolutely page turning! Seriously I don't know how CE Johnson writes books that immediately grab you! This book makes you feel every emotion known to man. It's all worth it for the HEA!
Owen has been burned in the past by everyone he knows except his sister. His entire town has outcasted him after he protected himself against bullies. He is determined never to allow anyone hurt him that way again. Unfortunately his sister is set to marry one of the men who caused Owen to be outcasted.
In comes Natalie like a wrecking ball in a fancy car and high heels. She was just betrayed in such a awful way! She needs a break from reality for a while. After some thought she decides to stay at some cabins her friend loved while away with her husband. Only problem is the owner seems to have a chip on his shoulder.
Little by little Natalie and Owen pull back each other's layers to reveal they are two pieces of the same puzzle. They will do anything to keep each other safe even if that means throwing themselves on the fire!
Literally this book needs a 10 star but as it can only go up to five that will have to do! Can't wait for book three in this series!
Owen has been burned in the past by everyone he knows except his sister. His entire town has outcasted him after he protected himself against bullies. He is determined never to allow anyone hurt him that way again. Unfortunately his sister is set to marry one of the men who caused Owen to be outcasted.
In comes Natalie like a wrecking ball in a fancy car and high heels. She was just betrayed in such a awful way! She needs a break from reality for a while. After some thought she decides to stay at some cabins her friend loved while away with her husband. Only problem is the owner seems to have a chip on his shoulder.
Little by little Natalie and Owen pull back each other's layers to reveal they are two pieces of the same puzzle. They will do anything to keep each other safe even if that means throwing themselves on the fire!
Literally this book needs a 10 star but as it can only go up to five that will have to do! Can't wait for book three in this series!
April 14, 2022
Sexy exciting swoony good
I really enjoyed Owen and Natalie’s sweet, swoony , exciting, but slightly dangerous story. Owen runs a retreat with private cabins. Due to his history he’s a bit of a recluse. Natalie is used to the better things in life but when her life implodes she impulsively decides to come to Owen’s retreat. She arrives in a tiny sports car wearing high heels and clothes inappropriate for the wilderness. Owen is already stressed because his sister is marrying one of the men that got him put in prison so their initial meeting does not go well. Nevertheless, fate pulls them together and begins the exciting, roller coaster ride of their HEA. This book has a little bit of everything you’d expect from romantic suspense - sweet moments, fan your face steam, dangerous action, strong friendships, dysfunctional families, painful pasts, mystery, plot twists, uber protective men, real life issues, imperfect characters, and even a few chuckles. The story was well written, the characters had depth and growth, and the storyline was engaging. I will definitely be reading more of this series because I want to know Whack’s story.
I really enjoyed Owen and Natalie’s sweet, swoony , exciting, but slightly dangerous story. Owen runs a retreat with private cabins. Due to his history he’s a bit of a recluse. Natalie is used to the better things in life but when her life implodes she impulsively decides to come to Owen’s retreat. She arrives in a tiny sports car wearing high heels and clothes inappropriate for the wilderness. Owen is already stressed because his sister is marrying one of the men that got him put in prison so their initial meeting does not go well. Nevertheless, fate pulls them together and begins the exciting, roller coaster ride of their HEA. This book has a little bit of everything you’d expect from romantic suspense - sweet moments, fan your face steam, dangerous action, strong friendships, dysfunctional families, painful pasts, mystery, plot twists, uber protective men, real life issues, imperfect characters, and even a few chuckles. The story was well written, the characters had depth and growth, and the storyline was engaging. I will definitely be reading more of this series because I want to know Whack’s story.
September 11, 2022
Owen and Natalie
This book was so packed full of emotion. Owen and Natalie were complete opposites, but somehow their relationship just worked. It was refreshing to have the female lead do the saving, even if Owen was a big, strong, alpha male.
Natalie books a cabin in the woods after fleeing the city after a break-up. She didn’t expect the owner, Owen, and she definitely didn’t expect to feel a sense of belonging she’d never felt in the city. Owen and Natalie started with a bit of enemies-to- lovers vibes but that quickly morphed into something much stronger.
My heart broke repeatedly for Owen. What that town put him through was completely outrageous. I loved that when he told Natalie the truth, she instantly had his back, something he hadn’t had outside his small friend group of Everest and Whack. Not only did she believe his story, but she defended him time and time again. While Owen shared his friends, Natalie shared her parents. The acceptance Natalie’s parents showed was so heartwarming for Owen.
I loved this book. I loved the plot and storyline, I loved the suspense, and I loved the romance.
This book was so packed full of emotion. Owen and Natalie were complete opposites, but somehow their relationship just worked. It was refreshing to have the female lead do the saving, even if Owen was a big, strong, alpha male.
Natalie books a cabin in the woods after fleeing the city after a break-up. She didn’t expect the owner, Owen, and she definitely didn’t expect to feel a sense of belonging she’d never felt in the city. Owen and Natalie started with a bit of enemies-to- lovers vibes but that quickly morphed into something much stronger.
My heart broke repeatedly for Owen. What that town put him through was completely outrageous. I loved that when he told Natalie the truth, she instantly had his back, something he hadn’t had outside his small friend group of Everest and Whack. Not only did she believe his story, but she defended him time and time again. While Owen shared his friends, Natalie shared her parents. The acceptance Natalie’s parents showed was so heartwarming for Owen.
I loved this book. I loved the plot and storyline, I loved the suspense, and I loved the romance.
March 30, 2021
This is my first time reading anything written by C.E. Johnson and it certainly won’t be my last! I went in not knowing what to expect and found myself wanting to go back and explore more.
This book tells the story of Natalie and Owen, two individuals from different worlds. After facing a bad break in a relationship Natalie flees to escape reality for a little while where she meets Owen. Their relationship or lack there of changes after a negative situation causes Natalie to rethink her initial feelings about Owen. It was refreshing to read a story that shows a mans point of view and also allows you to see a mans emotions. Watching these two grow as people, friends and also in a relationship was truly entertaining. I loved seeing Natalie fit in as “one of the guys” and how she looked past the negatives to discover the real Owen. I don’t like to post too much information because I feel it takes away from the suspense. However, I will say this is definitely a book that is completely worth reading. I look forward to the next book in the series and would definitely recommend!
This book tells the story of Natalie and Owen, two individuals from different worlds. After facing a bad break in a relationship Natalie flees to escape reality for a little while where she meets Owen. Their relationship or lack there of changes after a negative situation causes Natalie to rethink her initial feelings about Owen. It was refreshing to read a story that shows a mans point of view and also allows you to see a mans emotions. Watching these two grow as people, friends and also in a relationship was truly entertaining. I loved seeing Natalie fit in as “one of the guys” and how she looked past the negatives to discover the real Owen. I don’t like to post too much information because I feel it takes away from the suspense. However, I will say this is definitely a book that is completely worth reading. I look forward to the next book in the series and would definitely recommend!
March 30, 2021
From the very beginning my heart went out to Natalie and everything that she was going through. To be betrayed as she was would be devastating. But as soon as she made the decision to get away I was hopeful she would find herself. Enter brooding and angry at the world Owen. At first I couldn’t stand him and his attitude. How can one person be so angry at the world. But it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with his character. I couldn’t help but get angry for him and everything he he went through. This book hits you in so many ways that you don’t expect. I would love to have friends like Whack and Everest that are there at the drop of a hat even in the face of danger. The way the group fits so well together give you all the feels. As rough as they may be around the edges they know what is at stake and will fight no matter the consequences. I could not help but cry at the end. I love love loved this book and how it all comes together. Thank you
March 30, 2021
Hot must read second chance book
This book is all you want in a book. The suspense, the love connection, the friendships, and the fire. Natalie needed a new start and tried something out of comfort zone. She wasn't expecting to meet Owen. The bloody owner of her destination. They definitely did not see eye to eye until she wanted to save him from his past. She's the city fashionista and he's the small town felon. Totally opposites but they had the want to save each other and that's exactly what they did. They gave each other something they both didn't think they needed. He needed someone to stand by his side and stick up for him. She needed peace and love. The way that they protect each other is amazing. The love that they formed was beautiful. I will never look at a glazed donut and lemon line soda without them reminding me of Owen. You just have to pick up this book to enjoy all the laughs, suspense & love. What a fantastic read!!
This book is all you want in a book. The suspense, the love connection, the friendships, and the fire. Natalie needed a new start and tried something out of comfort zone. She wasn't expecting to meet Owen. The bloody owner of her destination. They definitely did not see eye to eye until she wanted to save him from his past. She's the city fashionista and he's the small town felon. Totally opposites but they had the want to save each other and that's exactly what they did. They gave each other something they both didn't think they needed. He needed someone to stand by his side and stick up for him. She needed peace and love. The way that they protect each other is amazing. The love that they formed was beautiful. I will never look at a glazed donut and lemon line soda without them reminding me of Owen. You just have to pick up this book to enjoy all the laughs, suspense & love. What a fantastic read!!
March 30, 2021
This is the 2nd book in this amazing series and is Owen and Natalie’s journey. Natalie has her trust destroyed and walls away from a relationship, only to check into a vacation loge to regroup. Owen is the gruff owner of the lodge which offers a lot of outdoor activities, which Natalie hates, and he has a past which haunts him. The sparks fly between these two, and the chemistry is sizzling and undeniable. Can they help each other to heal and move on with their lives? This is a beautifully written story which is filled with angst, drama, danger, suspense, twists, emotions, and love, which all leads to a fun and entertaining read. I was enthralled throughout this addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
April 2, 2021
Amazing story full of drama and angst and a little mystery, but also has the elements of romance. All this combined made one powerful story to showcase the true grit of Owen and Natalie. I ran through many emotions while reading this book. From anger at Natalie’s ex and Owen’s father to relief at Whack and Everest dropping everything to help. From happiness that Natalie and Owen deserved to the feeling of peace between Owen and his sister Melody. The support Natalie’s parents not only gave her but also Owen and Mel, The author wove a tale so powerful that it’s left me bereft at the end of the book. What a phenomenal storyteller! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Whack.
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
March 29, 2021
I am struggling to put my thoughts together. I will say Owen and Natalie are wonderful together, and their story had my complete attention.
The romance was wonderful. I loved seeing these two connect, and build that trust. Natalie made a big impact on Owen. I think it's safe to say he made one on her as well. Not to mention Natalie's parents stepping up. Loved that.
You know what really kept my attention though? It was the suspense. It all goes back to a situation that happened when Owen was a teenager. Here we are years later, and there are still people trying to bring him down. Oofta. How everything played out. So good. I was so invested, and definitely found myself holding my breathe toward the end.
The romance was wonderful. I loved seeing these two connect, and build that trust. Natalie made a big impact on Owen. I think it's safe to say he made one on her as well. Not to mention Natalie's parents stepping up. Loved that.
You know what really kept my attention though? It was the suspense. It all goes back to a situation that happened when Owen was a teenager. Here we are years later, and there are still people trying to bring him down. Oofta. How everything played out. So good. I was so invested, and definitely found myself holding my breathe toward the end.
March 21, 2021
Natalie needs a break from everything especially her former boyfriend. She decided to take a vacation in a cabin far away from everyone and everything. Owen had a bad experience and is a stronger person for it. He is the owner of the resort Natalie is staying at. It was definitely not love at first sight with these two. Can this vacation help Natalie turn her life around? Owen has tons of emotional baggage can he get past it to see what’s in front of him. This was a great book with many layered twists and turns. This was definitely a quick enjoyable read.
March 23, 2021
Wow, wow, wow! I fell hard and fast for Owen and Natalie’s love story! Owen has a past that’s tortured him his whole life. Natalie was escaping an awful relationship and ended up at Owen’s cabin retreat- an unlikely place for her to go. She found herself mixed up in Owen’s past and he found himself wanting to protect her from it all. They connected in a romantic, steamy, beautiful story that I could not put down! Add in the protective alpha friends and some unexpected drama and you’ve got a book that you can not put down! Absolutely LOVED! Highly recommended!
August 9, 2022
3 1/2*
Book 1 earned 5*. Not sure what happened with this book. When did Natalie and Gill fall in love?? Just being in the same area then his house made them fall into love?
So much of the story is about shopping, donuts, burning bacon (come on — it’s not that hard!), furniture. It felt like a filler book.
And it’s seriously annoying that many characters, especially Whack, are written as caricatures. This book was lacking after the first amazing one. I will go on to book 3.
Book 1 earned 5*. Not sure what happened with this book. When did Natalie and Gill fall in love?? Just being in the same area then his house made them fall into love?
So much of the story is about shopping, donuts, burning bacon (come on — it’s not that hard!), furniture. It felt like a filler book.
And it’s seriously annoying that many characters, especially Whack, are written as caricatures. This book was lacking after the first amazing one. I will go on to book 3.
March 29, 2021
Talk about an amazing, plot driven romance. I am loving this series of standalones from CE Johnson. These characters are absolutely incredible. Each one is unique and so well developed. I loved following along as Owen (Gill) and Natalie found each other, and new family.
Everest, Gill and Whack are men that will steal your heart. Talk about broken, broody men. I am loving how these men are getting a new start at the life they deserve. I can't wait for Whack's book.
Everest, Gill and Whack are men that will steal your heart. Talk about broken, broody men. I am loving how these men are getting a new start at the life they deserve. I can't wait for Whack's book.
March 27, 2022
I’m having a wonderful time reading this series. Here is a city girl in high heels getting out of her fancy little car and tries to walk on rocks and gravel toward a cabin in the woods. I can just see the disaster coming and so could Owen as he watched. This book has humor, mystery and romance. I couldn’t believe the twists in the story that involved bullies in high school. The story-line is exciting and I’m on toward Book 3.
April 23, 2022
C.E. JOHNSON DOES IT AGAIN. I was reluctant moving onto the second book in this series after Watch Me Drown. That book was so amazing I didn’t know if anything could top it and this sure as hell got right up there on its level.
My only complaint is the slight miscommunication trope because it is my absolute least favorite (so personal preference) but thank goodness it lasted like a whole two pages.
I AM LOVING THIS SERIES. Thank you for giving us these books.
My only complaint is the slight miscommunication trope because it is my absolute least favorite (so personal preference) but thank goodness it lasted like a whole two pages.
I AM LOVING THIS SERIES. Thank you for giving us these books.
January 25, 2023
I knew I would love Owen's story... But I didn't know I would love him as much as I did. He now has a special place in my heart.
Once I started this book I read it as fast as I could. The story is great and the characters are so lovable. I could not get enough of them.
Natalie and Owen are the perfect match for eachother. They compliment one another so well.
I can't wait to get right into the next book.
Once I started this book I read it as fast as I could. The story is great and the characters are so lovable. I could not get enough of them.
Natalie and Owen are the perfect match for eachother. They compliment one another so well.
I can't wait to get right into the next book.
March 25, 2021
Natalie is so much more than she gives herself credit for . Gill has a tough demeanor that has allowed his walls to be unbreakable. Natalie & Gill are complete opposite that complete each other so well. Sometimes life happens when you least expect it . This book has all my boxes checked for romantic suspense.
April 7, 2021
As soon as I met Gill in Watch Me Drown, I knew that I wanted and needed his story. You know that moment when you are reading a book and a secondary character is introduced and you are blown away and know that the next book better be about them or you are going to go mad, that is how I felt about knowing Gill and all that his world entailed.
And boy oh boy was it epic and awesome and so full of everything that I expected and then so much more! It was brilliant to see this surly, quiet friend blossom into the kind of man that will lay down his life for the one he loves. And to do so in a way that he didn’t even know he was falling in love was so enticing and C.E. did a fabulous job of bring Owen and Natalie to life in a way that had me salivating for more.
These men are scarred, yet they love so fierce and so hard that it melts you away. Natalie is one lucky girl let me tell you! And she brings so much life to Owen’s character that it is a sight to see (well read...you know what I mean).
I love this series!
And boy oh boy was it epic and awesome and so full of everything that I expected and then so much more! It was brilliant to see this surly, quiet friend blossom into the kind of man that will lay down his life for the one he loves. And to do so in a way that he didn’t even know he was falling in love was so enticing and C.E. did a fabulous job of bring Owen and Natalie to life in a way that had me salivating for more.
These men are scarred, yet they love so fierce and so hard that it melts you away. Natalie is one lucky girl let me tell you! And she brings so much life to Owen’s character that it is a sight to see (well read...you know what I mean).
I love this series!
December 27, 2022
There are so many twists and turns with this book! I loved it.
Natalie doesn't want anything to do with Owen initially but the 🔥 burns with these two. Natalie is leaving the city to get a break. Not use to the mountain air and er men, she has a rude awakening with Owen. But these two will fight to protect this new found romance. This was a fabulous read!!
#kuread
Natalie doesn't want anything to do with Owen initially but the 🔥 burns with these two. Natalie is leaving the city to get a break. Not use to the mountain air and er men, she has a rude awakening with Owen. But these two will fight to protect this new found romance. This was a fabulous read!!
#kuread
March 30, 2021
This was a book full of emotion and suspense. Unpredictable situations right until the end and I never guessed who was behind all the horrible acts until it was revealed.
Natalie has hit rock bottom - out of job, failed relationship, and low on funds. Needing an escape she books a cabin at a remote wilderness resort.
Owen - The past has taught him to trust no one and he clashes with Natalie upon her arrival. Owen is attracted to her but feels his past will always haunt him and she will run. Natalie is a strong and feisty heroine and she surprises Owen at every turn.
This was a great slow burn with steamy moments that were definitely worth the wait. I enjoyed all the characters and plan to go back to read book 1.
Natalie has hit rock bottom - out of job, failed relationship, and low on funds. Needing an escape she books a cabin at a remote wilderness resort.
Owen - The past has taught him to trust no one and he clashes with Natalie upon her arrival. Owen is attracted to her but feels his past will always haunt him and she will run. Natalie is a strong and feisty heroine and she surprises Owen at every turn.
This was a great slow burn with steamy moments that were definitely worth the wait. I enjoyed all the characters and plan to go back to read book 1.
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