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Southern #6

Southern Heat

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Willow
After being left for dead, I was given a fresh start by my knight in shining armor.
My protector.
I never had a family before they took me in.
But I don’t know how to stay or trust.
I always had a bag packed and ready just in case I needed to escape again.
Like they say, old habits die hard.
Being in the shadows is lonely, but lonely is safe.

Quinn
I was the quiet one, the one who stood in the back and watched things unfold. The cowboy who only cared about his horses instead of the glory.
Until I found her fighting for her life. Something inside me shifted, and I couldn’t stop it.
I couldn’t stop protecting her.
I fell in love with her with one look because she was my soul mate.
Even though I knew I couldn't make her stay

227 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 2021

787 people are currently reading
1856 people want to read

About the author

Natasha Madison

89 books8,399 followers
When Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best Selling Author's nose isn't buried in a book, or her fingers flying across a keyboard writing, she's in the kitchen creating gourmet meals. You can find her, in four inch heels no less, in the car chauffeuring kids, or possibly with her husband scheduling his business trips. It's a good thing her characters do what she says, because even her Labrador doesn't listen to her...

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5 stars
2,147 (52%)
4 stars
1,284 (31%)
3 stars
514 (12%)
2 stars
86 (2%)
1 star
26 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 346 reviews
Profile Image for Carmen Rae.
1,688 reviews187 followers
June 3, 2021
Natasha Madison is one of those auto one click authors. Every time I pick up one of her books, I know I am going to get a great story, awesome characters and just enough drama to keep me invested. And it's the perfect line between insta love and romance.

At the end of the last book, I was dying to get my hands on this one. Firstly, because I wasn't ready to put the book down (although with this series, I never am) and secondly because of Quinn's reaction, I just knew his story would be a good one. These guys are this weird mix of cowboy and bad arse and it just works.

Quinn is more of the cowboy side of things but growing up in his family he still goes in with guns blazing. And from the second he saved Willow he was all sweet, caring, protective guy. I couldn't get enough of him, well maybe he could have been a little more growling alpha but that probably wouldn't have worked for Willow.

Because when we first meet Willow, she's so beaten and broken that she really needs Quinn's softer side. And the slow burn, hot chemistry with these two was perfect. I really enjoyed this book and of course the family rallied, and we got loads of them. And thankfully there's more of this series in the works and I'm so there for it.
Profile Image for Gabby.
126 reviews67 followers
October 22, 2021
3 STARS for male lead.

Positive notes :

•Quinn is an amazing hero. He’s sweet, caring and has the patience of a saint. He’s a good man and I personally think he deserves better than the h.

•Sorry but that’s the only thing I can come up with.


On the flip side :

•I would name this book “Southern Tear”, it’s more suitable.
If you search for the word “TEAR” in this book, you will find 85 matches — plural and singular in total. There are tears on every chapter. Every.Single.Chapter.
Yep, I was drowning in their tears.

•This is healing-comforts storyline so don’t expect some spicy dramas to happen.

•First half of the book took place at hospital.

•Heroine was pushing hero away for major of the book.
Their first kiss at 80%.
So if you ever decide to read this book, be patience.

•Even in epilogue, the heroine annoys me 🤡




Safety :
Virgin h.
H is not a whore. No info on how long he’s been celibate.
No OW/OM. No scenes with OP.
HEA. Few years later, married plus a new born baby.
Profile Image for Regan.
795 reviews4 followers
June 1, 2021
Love at first sight

Quinn falls in love with Willow when he finds her, barely clinging to life after Mayson’s father beats her and leaves her for dead. Willow is afraid of almost everything after living with her mother and Benjamin, and suffering at their hands for years. But strangely, Quinn makes her feel safe. But she can’t help thinking that the other shoe is bound to drop, and then she’ll lose all the happiness she’s gained. Because no one could possibly love her.
I really love this series and I enjoyed this book. I would recommend it to everyone.
Profile Image for Sabrina.
4,339 reviews2,396 followers
June 6, 2021
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK

I enjoyed these characters but the story dragged a little too much for me and it made it hard to focus on Quinn and Willow. Especially in the beginning, it felt like not enough was happening to keep the story moving.
Profile Image for Cami.
1,674 reviews76 followers
September 15, 2021
Natasha Madison quickly became an author that I was certain I wanted to read all of her books and I have been making my way through them all. She is going to have to step up her writing to keep up with me. LOL

Her books always have great characters and a perfect amount of action/suspense to keep you involved the entire time. Her books aren’t long but they have everything you need so you don’t feel like you are missing any valuable information.

Willow has endured horrific abuse and is barely hanging on when Quinn finds her.

I don’t think I would necessarily call this insta-love as much as I would say Quinn felt the need to protect her immediately and it quickly turned into more when he insisted on staying with her and wouldn’t leave her side while she was in the hospital.

Quinn is Casey and Olivia’s son and he’s wonderful! Pretty much all of the men Natasha writes about are swoon worthy.

I will say I am really not one for slow burns but most of NM’s books tend to be that way and I never seem to mind. I think there is enough sexual chemistry and other exciting parts of the story that it never bothers me.
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,250 reviews219 followers
May 25, 2021
5 Star review of Southern Heat (Southern Series #6) by Natasha Madison

I couldn’t wait to dive in to Southern Heat. It was everything that I was expecting and so much more. It ticked all the boxes for me and I was riveted from the first word till the last in the story Ms. Madison wove for Willow and Quinn.

I fell hard and fast for Quinn, from the moment he first sets eyes on Willow, he stole my heart. The connection between them was intense and Quinn knew from the start that his life was changed forever.

There were times when my heart almost broke for Willow, the pain of her past palpable. She is such a brave woman and has been through so much that you really wanted her to get her happily ever after. Will Quinn be able to convince Willow to take a chance on him? To trust him and in doing so know that he will be beside her to protect her and keep her safe and above all, love her unconditionally.

This book was full of emotions and had me pulled in different directions at times. The chemistry between them was hard to ignore and it was heart warming to watch their relationship unfold and for them both to blossom with their love.

Southern Heat is a great addition to the series. One click this little gem I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews489 followers
June 3, 2021
At the end of Southern Heart, we got a smidge of a smidge of look into the savagely beaten woman- Willow and I knew that her story was going to be one that would test my emotions. Now I will give you just crumbs because you need to go in with a clear mind to experience the story like I did.

When Quinn finds Willow in that cabin, he is automatically drawn to her and doesn’t leave her side even though his family is weary about his attachment to her. When Willow waked up at the hospital she’s on survival mode especially seeing Quinn in her room.

Could Willow truly trust Quinn? Was Quinn in on what happened in that cabin? So many questions right from the beginning and I really didn’t know how it was going to end up because…..you didn’t think I’d spoil it for you, did you? You will have to one click to experience Quinn and Willow’s emotional story. Kara~ 5 Stars
Profile Image for Nadene  (Totally Addicted to Reading).
1,522 reviews218 followers
June 1, 2021
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Southern Heat by Natasha Madison is the sixth (6th) book in the Southern Series. It follows a physically and mentally abused heroine as she discovers the healing power of love.

Southern Heat was a quick emotional read, which dealt with some heavy issues.  The story picked up from where the previous bool ended. After the smoke cleared, Quinn discovered a badly beaten and unconscious female hidden under the bed.  A discovery which led to several questions, such as who is this mysterious female and what was her role in the events prior to her discovery? In the meantime, Quinn makes it his mission to protect her. Soon a friendship and eventually a romance will develop between Quinn and Willow.   

Willow has been to hell and back, but she proved to be a survivor. Her behaviour aptly portrayed a victim of abuse. Wary and skittish. It took her a while to trust that Quinn and his family's intentions were not meant to harm her, but to make her know she mattered. After what she had been through one could understand why she would have trust issues.

Quinn wore his heart on his sleeve.  From the moment he found Willow he felt the need to protect her.  I loved how patient he was with her.  He went above and beyond to ensure her comfort.  However, there were a few times when he needed a shake or two. Thanks to his sister and cousin who helped him in that regards. As usual I had fun catching up with the characters from the previous books.

I had fun coming back to the world the author created. The small town vibe and the camaraderie shared between family and friends added to the authenticity of the story.

The story ended on a beautiful note and it left me looking forward to the next book in the series. Southern Heat provided me with the perfect escape. I enjoyed every moment. Fans of contemporary romance should consider adding this one to their shelves.


This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Profile Image for Becky.
229 reviews341 followers
June 4, 2021
I loved this book so much, it was just so cute. I didn’t know what to expect from the story but I’m a big fan of the whole ‘heroine is hurt and the guy helps her’ (however you say that trope) so I really enjoyed it. Willow was such a great character and has so much growth. She was really dealt with the worst situation and trauma and overcame that, with some help from others. Quinn was the regular alpha male who wants to help, and I loved it. How he immediately connected to Willow without even knowing her name and stayed by her side while she was hurt was so sweet. They’re relationship was cute and definitely had its emotional moments. I did wish that the relationship stuff happened a bit faster but I could see why it wasn’t rushed. Overall I really enjoyed this books and I can’t wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Jamie.
2,109 reviews97 followers
December 13, 2024
I liked Willow and Quinn's story. I just love these alpha male characters that Natasha Madison is always putting out in these books.

Willow has such a sad story. I do wish she would've gotten over some of her insecurities sooner. Don't get me wrong, I know why she had them, but I would've loved for her to embrace the family sooner.

I do love that Quinn never left her side. He was that person she really needed. I loved Quinn. I also love the family and love that we continue to see them in the new books. It's one of the things I love about her books!

Can't wait to read Amelia and Asher's book!
Profile Image for Jill M (Embrace the Romance).
1,577 reviews123 followers
May 27, 2021
This series is my kryptonite. I loved this book so much. So much emotion and heart. It was a slow and steady journey of a broken heart and finding the trust in others. Quinn is the perfect bookboyfriend and more. The way from the very beginning he is drawn to Willow and cares for her melts my heart.

Natasha writes stories that draw you in and captivate you to the end. And then she adds a liitle at the end to bring you back for more.  I can't wait for more. I just finished and I still need more.
Profile Image for Karie Gibson.
2,155 reviews15 followers
June 1, 2021
Oh my heart is still in my stomach. I loved Quinn and Willow beyond any words. Quinn was a man on a mission. From the moment he laid eyes on Willow there was a connection. Willow didn't have roots and didn't think she'd ever have them. This family is so full of love you'll wish they were yours. This southern family and series has stolen my heart and I can't wait for more.
Profile Image for Nadene  (Totally Addicted to Reading).
1,522 reviews218 followers
June 2, 2021
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Southern Heat by Natasha Madison is the sixth (6th) book in the Southern Series. It follows a physically and mentally abused heroine as she discovers the healing power of love.

Southern Heat was a quick emotional read, which dealt with some heavy issues. The story picked up from where the previous bool ended. After the smoke cleared, Quinn discovered a badly beaten and unconscious female hidden under the bed. A discovery which led to several questions, such as who is this mysterious female and what was her role in the events prior to her discovery? In the meantime, Quinn makes it his mission to protect her. Soon a friendship and eventually a romance will develop between Quinn and Willow.

Willow has been to hell and back, but she proved to be a survivor. Her behaviour aptly portrayed a victim of abuse. Wary and skittish. It took her a while to trust that Quinn and his family's intentions were not meant to harm her, but to make her know she mattered. After what she had been through one could understand why she would have trust issues.

Quinn wore his heart on his sleeve. From the moment he found Willow he felt the need to protect her. I loved how patient he was with her. He went above and beyond to ensure her comfort. However, there were a few times when he needed a shake or two. Thanks to his sister and cousin who helped him in that regards. As usual I had fun catching up with the characters from the previous books.

I had fun coming back to the world the author created. The small town vibe and the camaraderie shared between family and friends added to the authenticity of the story.

The story ended on a beautiful note and it left me looking forward to the next book in the series. Southern Heat provided me with the perfect escape. I enjoyed every moment. Fans of contemporary romance should consider adding this one to their shelves.

This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Profile Image for Jenn Amy.
914 reviews83 followers
June 2, 2021
Southern Heat is book #6 in Natasha Madison’s Southern Series. Willow and Quinn’s story is incredible. Willow has endured abuse like no other woman should ever have to face. She is left struggling and fighting for her life. When Quinn rescues her he does not leave her side for one moment. He has no idea who she is but he is drawn to her and deep down feels it’s his duty to protect her. Willow has never in her life felt protected and it is immediately skeptical of Quinn’s motives but soon realizes he has no other motive except to love her and keep her safe. My heart was in my throat for Willow and all that she suffered at the hands of her abuser. It was beautiful seeing her open up and become her own woman also while developing a deep, and emotional connection with Quinn. Quinn is the son of Olivia and Casey from Southern Comfort, he has grown up loved and supported and cannot fathom the life that Willow has had to live. He runs an equine therapy ranch and the moments where Willow connects with her horse were so beautiful and really got me in the feels. These two do not have an easy road to their HEA but every obstacle is worth it in the end. The end was breathtaking and perfect for them. I cannot say enough good things about this series and this was a fantastic addition.

*Advanced reader copy received in exchange of an honest review.
Profile Image for Amy [Book Addict Reviews].
2,671 reviews181 followers
May 31, 2021
Southern Heat is a suspenseful slow burn that I couldn’t put down!

Ever since the ending of previous book, Southern Heart, I have been DYING to read this one and see what was going to happen next and it doesn’t disappoint. Quinn and Willow will take you on an emotional journey that will destroy you and slowly piece you back together. Their journey was different, but full of so much beauty and love.

My heart broke for Willow, but she is a fighter, a survivor and I couldn’t help but root for her to get the happy ending she truly deserves. Quinn. Ugh I love him. He is protective and caring and it shows when it came to Willow. He didn’t know her, didn’t even know her name, yet he never left her side. He was there for her from the start and it was beautiful. The two of them have chemistry, there is no denying that fact and while this was a slow burn, it was worth the wait and things got pretty steamy.

If you’re looking for a slow burn, romantic suspense, small town romance this is one to read!
Profile Image for tee.
201 reviews18 followers
June 10, 2021
Oh my heart, this was so cute. I devoured this book, I simply could not put this down and was constantly on the edge of my seat. This is a very emotionally charged story which I just adored and is without a doubt my favourite in the series so far. Quinn and Willow blew me away, this was just so swoon worth my heart 🥺 I just love these two.
Profile Image for Book Maniac Forever.
1,149 reviews390 followers
November 9, 2021

⭐️ 4 "Survivor" Stars ⭐️
Southern Heat was another amazing introduction to the Southern Series. Quinn is truly swoon worthy! A cowboy with a heart of gold, devoted to Willow from the start. It was truly sweet to witness his level of dedication to a total stranger. I'll admit, I felt the romance was a little too sudden for me, no true building of their relationship. Despite this little critic, I enjoyed their bond and the way Willow was introduced into the family with open arms. The suspense was thrilling and kept me invested all read long. Quinn was definitely his father's son with all the swoon factor, but also hero complex.

“𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒎𝒆, 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒎𝒆 𝒊𝒔. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆. 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒂𝒔 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒂𝒔 𝒊𝒕 𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒔.”

Southern Heat was a real treat and has me so excited for the next couple books! I love the whole cast of this series so much and can't get enough!
Profile Image for Heather.
410 reviews49 followers
March 3, 2024
Healing/comfort read so pace is rather slow.
Hero is patient, kind, and caring. And likes to feel needed.
Heroine is withdrawn, distrustful, and doesn’t know anything about the world, moved constantly with her abusive “parents”, wasn’t allowed to be outside of where her mom and stepdad kept her, yet somehow is a “computer genius”… this is not explained. Like how she acquired these skills, where she would have even had access to a computer or internet for that matter. Doesn’t know how lemonade tastes or what a root beer float is, but can bypass firewalls and hack into mainframes…
Story setting does not go beyond the hospital until 56%. At that point the story evolves pretty quickly and spicy scenes were thrown in at the end like an afterthought.
2.75 stars rounded up to 3 👍
Profile Image for AJ.
3,261 reviews1,072 followers
June 1, 2021
3 stars

This is the sixth book in the Southern series, continuing the stories of the second generation of characters in a dramatic, emotional and swoony romance for Quinn and Willow.

Quinn is the son of Casey and Olivia (from Southern Comfort, #2 in the series), and after meeting him all grown up and protective in the last few books, I was so excited for his story. And after the ending of the last book, I was even more intrigued for the story coming his way.

Willow is ‘the girl in the cabin’, found by the boys when they stormed in during those final events of the last book. She has been held for years by a sadistic madman and she has endured hell, and from the moment Quinn finds her and carries her out of that cabin and straight to the hospital, he refuses to leave her side.

All I wanted to do was push the hair back from her face, just stare into her eyes, and hold her face in my palms. I wanted to take her in my arms and promise her that she would never be hurt again. I wanted to tell her that I would die before I let someone else put their hands on her.

Willow’s world has just been turned upside down. She’s been through so much, and she has nothing and nobody, but Quinn is there for her in a way that no-one else ever has been, and though she understandably struggles to accept him and all that he’s offering, she can’t help but cling to him.

I’ve never had anyone sit by my bed before and worry about me. I’ve never had anyone care that I was hurt. I’ve never had anyone give me even an ounce of what he gave me in the little time he’s known me. I don’t even know him, yet I know that if he’s here, I’ll be safe.

Quinn is such a softie. He is brave and protective, but he’s a nurturer with a big heart, and he cares deeply. He is there for Willow every step of the way, and that includes moving her right into his house after her hospital stay - supporting her, caring for her, and giving her just the right push to find her feet again.

“I won’t let you fall,” he says. “Trust me.”

These two are so sweet together. There’s definitely a connection between them, but it’s a necessary slow burn as Willow begins the process of healing and rebuilding, and Quinn is right there supporting her through it. It’s romantic and seriously swoony, and Quinn is just gorgeous.



But underneath it all, Willow is ready to run. It’s what she’s had to do in the past, her fears are real, and the walls she has build around herself aren’t ready to come down just yet. It will take all of the patience and love that Quinn and his family have to offer to help her finally start to trust and feel safe once and for all.

“I don’t think you’ve been paying attention, Willow,” and I just look at him. “It’s you,” he whispers. “It’s always been you. It will always be you.”

This book has all the swoon and all of the emotion, but I didn’t feel it as much as I was hoping. I think because the emotions were a bit extreme, there were some parts that didn’t feel realistic, and it just didn’t hit me like other books in this series have. Also, for me, the pacing felt a little off, it was quite slow at the beginning, with over half of the book taking place in the hospital, and then the second part of the book seems to skim a bit, with us getting to see highlights. I would have like to see some more build-up of the romance – more flirting and banter, and more of those heart-pounding moments of anticipation before the flip is switched late in the book and it’s suddenly all on. And then there is drama at the end, which again felt rushed and a bit extreme, and honestly didn’t feel necessary.

But I loved being back in this world, I loved seeing characters from the previous book – Mayson and Chelsea in particular, are great - and the epilogue finishes off Quinn and Willow’s story so sweetly.

3 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Profile Image for Flavs is Mrs David Gandy♥~♥’.
3,439 reviews2 followers
June 2, 2021
I can say that if you have never read a Natasha Madison book you are seriously missing out on an amazing read 😊

This series just gets better and better with every story. And Quinn and Willow’s story was so good I didn’t want it to end. If you have read the previous book then this one just continues from there.
Quinn discovers a beaten and unconscious female. And from there it was just question after question. Who is she? What does she have to do with the previous events that happened. But Quinn didn’t care he made it his mission to protect her no matter what happens.

Willow is scared and skittish and it looks like she was a victim of abuse. And it wasn’t easy for Quinn to gain her trust. But eventually she knew that all they wanted to do was to help her. And man her story was not a good one ☹

Quinn and Willow was so good together. I loved that he had such a good heart and was so protective of Willow. He was patient and kind and did everything to gain her trust. I loved every minute of this book. Willow was a fighter and a survivor and you just can’t help but wanting her to feel safe and have a happy ending. Reading this book was like coming home to a family. I loved catching up with previous characters. I loved the hint of suspense, but most of all I loved the whole story of a women needing protection and a man doing everything in his power to protect her.
Profile Image for Franci N (Franci's Fabulous Reads).
2,375 reviews102 followers
June 2, 2021
4 He’ll Always Be There To Catch Her Stars!!!

When Quinn rescues Willow both of their lives take a different trajectory and it’s a very emotional ride to their HEA. Talk about a rollercoaster of emotions with this latest book in the Southern series. Both Quinn and Willow have been traumatized by the same man and this definitely creates a bond between them. And even though they didn’t know each other before Quinn finds Willow beaten and near death, there’s an instant connection that as Willow heals, grows stronger and stronger. Leading them to finding a love that neither thought they’d ever deserve or find.

This book may be a tough read, but there’s a beauty in it too that shows how love can change someone from the inside out bringing out who they’re really supposed to be. And for these two this really resonates as she grows stronger both physically and emotionally while healing and he softens his heart to let this beautiful woman in so they can bring their dreams to life!
Profile Image for Yolanda McGee~Veronica's Reading Vault .
897 reviews38 followers
May 26, 2021
Natasha Madison has absolutely slayed me with Southern Heat (Southern #6). All of the books so far in this series are outstanding and Southern Heat lived up to my expectations. All of the drama, mystery, and twists had my heart racing. From the moment Quinn sees Willow, he already claimed her in his heart. And Willow is just as enamored but her past is holding her back. I love the way Quinn protects her and cares for her. The romance, the passion and the emotions definitely tugged at my heart strings.

Their path isn’t easy and some secrets will come back to haunt them. Southern Heat can be read a stand-alone and it’s an excellent MUST read!!
Profile Image for Julie Booklover.
2,136 reviews105 followers
June 1, 2021
Southern Heat is another winner in the Southern Series, and I was anxiously waiting for this book since Southern Heart. This one is an emotional journey; Willow is a survivor. She has a fight ahead of her and does it with everything she has. I loved the slow burn, romance with just enough suspense to keep me turning pages!

I received an advanced copy from the Author; this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Yamina -Women Who Stare at Books.
835 reviews72 followers
June 4, 2021
This series is incredible and you get to know all the characters and it feels like home...

Southern Heat...My heart was put through the emotional wringer on this one.

Natasha Madison wrote an incredible story that is layered with many emotions, secrets and pain and at times it is gut wrenching but she also blends it with some unique passionate moments .

The chemistry between Quinn and Willow jumped of the page, I rooted for them and knew that their story was not going to be an easy ride. The love scenes between them were so real, tender and emotionally charged which made them even more special. The story tears you down as secrets are revealed and pasts are revealed...
This book had me gripped. I really enjoyed how the characters were fleshed out within the storylines and how the author brought them to life so vividly!
A must read !
1,565 reviews7 followers
June 3, 2021
Southern Heat is a beautifully written journey of love, friendships and trust. Willow and Quinn have a phenomenal love. I am in love with this book. I laughed and I cried, felt joy and had my heart shatter. This is story people will be talking about for ages.
Profile Image for Tania's Book Blog.
1,722 reviews23 followers
May 31, 2021
Beautiful beautiful beautiful story!! Quinn and Willow met when he saved her life. He felt a need to protect her without knowing her backstory. Willow was hesitant towards Quinn based on her upbringing and the things she endured. It was extremely sad the things that happened to her and that only increased Quinn’s tendency to protect her even more. It was a very very slow burn but it was just beautiful to see how they came to be and how she finally opened up to Quinn and his family. Then there was a secret that was revealed and the way it was met and handled just showed the goodness of Quinn and his family. They still welcomed Willow with open arms. They never looked at her differently. Their epilogue was funny and so them. It was beautiful.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,903 reviews213 followers
June 1, 2021




Amazon / Nook / Apple / Kobo

Quinn's breath left him when he discovered Willow's body underneath the bed where his squad had just rescued Chelsea. But even though something about her calls to him, Quinn must use a delicate, though strong, hand when wooing her. She's got a heartbreaking backstory and it's left its scars on her soul. She's been running her whole life, from those who were supposed to love her but didn't, who were supposed to protect her but hurt her instead. So if Quinn's found his soulmate in her, he will need all his strength to be there for her but not overwhelm her. To understand she's not going to let down her walls immediately, if ever. Can he do it? Or will he crumble when it becomes obvious that the distance she keeps herself from everyone means he might not ever have her whole trust?



When Quinn wakes up in the hospital, and sees a pair of beautiful blue eyes that somehow calm her, she's drawn to them, and to the man who's apparently been with her since he discovered her battered body under the bed where she had hidden herself. As the days wind down and she convalesces at Quinn's home, she knows she's given him her heart, but she also knows her big secret is one that will erase any of the feelings Quinn has for her, any of the goodwill she's been feeling from his family and friends. So she'll keep her black bag filled with her meager belongings, knowing that someday, probably soon, she'll have to leave, when they find out what she did. She's not anywhere near good enough for Quinn's big heart, and his loving circle. When Quinn realizes just how much she keeps herself apart and why, will he fight for her or let her go?



My God...this one broke my heart in a million little pieces. Hadley had been through so much, but she had come through it so strong, with just such a soft heart hiding beneath her scarred psyche. I love how fast and hard Quinn fell, even though I knew it was going to be hard for him to accept that she might not just fall as hard and fast, or admit to it at least, because of everything she had been through. I loved this amazing couple with a heartbreaking but beautiful story, and will not soon forget the strength Willow showed, and the heart Quinn gave her.



ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.

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June 2, 2021
Looking for something super swoony and sweet that’s supersexy and with a little bit of a dark edge? Then this series is the perfect fit! This book was just like a refreshing sip of your grandma’s ice cold lemonade- Southern, sugary sweet, delightfully yummy, with just a bit of bite.

Our story starts with our hero Quinn stumbling upon our battered and closed to death heroine in a rescue mission from a prior story (but don’t worry, it can be read as a standalone). Refusing to leave her defenseless and alone, Quinn decides to look after the mysterious Willow while she recovers, a decision that becomes even more resolved when we learn more about Willow’s harrowing past.

Quinn is a swoony, charming, and super sexy leading man. The owner of an equine therapy farm, he thrives on caring for those suffering from trauma, the broken, lost, and unloved. He’s protective, empathetic and caring, and hella charismatic. Willow steals your heart by her brave and courageous years of survival in a really messed up situation- she’s skittish and distrustful, but also admirably adaptive and independent. These two have a sweet and authentic chemistry- two people connecting in the most unusual of circumstances but both give the other something they’ve never had before- for Willow a home and a family, and for Quinn a purpose. NM keeps their love story pretty insulated, and very slow burn- which means we really get to watch these two fall into each other, and most importantly, we get to watch Willow find herself in this new life.

In the periphery we have Quinn’s family and friends, all charming small town do-gooders chock full of charm and southern hospitality- including pie. Lots of pie. And, we even have a bit of an unexpected twist in the end and a preview of what’s to come in the next in the series. Super cute, super sweet, and eventually super sexy- all in all, a great feel good read.

<4.5 stars>
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