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Tattered & Torn #3
Hidden Waters
The world had tried to break her.
Addie has dreamt of freedom for as long as she can remember—peace away from the torment of her old life. But now that it’s finally within her grasp, she’s struggling to take those first steps into her new reality.
The last thing she wants is a new roommate to see the scars she’s desperate to keep hidden, especially not the ruggedly handsome man who steals her breath and sends her heart into overdrive.
“I’m nobody’s hero. Trust me.”
All Beckett wants is to silence the demons of his past. The first step is to make amends for not being there when his family needed him the most. That means settling in Wolf Gap for good, even if the town reminds him of all the ways he failed.
He never expected to share a home with a blonde-haired beauty with haunting hazel eyes. But he’s held captive by her quiet strength and the way she sees everything he tries to hide.
Soon, an unlikely friendship becomes so much more. But when forces from Addie’s life slink out of the shadows, they could both lose everything they fought so hard for—down to their very last breaths…
Addie has dreamt of freedom for as long as she can remember—peace away from the torment of her old life. But now that it’s finally within her grasp, she’s struggling to take those first steps into her new reality.
The last thing she wants is a new roommate to see the scars she’s desperate to keep hidden, especially not the ruggedly handsome man who steals her breath and sends her heart into overdrive.
“I’m nobody’s hero. Trust me.”
All Beckett wants is to silence the demons of his past. The first step is to make amends for not being there when his family needed him the most. That means settling in Wolf Gap for good, even if the town reminds him of all the ways he failed.
He never expected to share a home with a blonde-haired beauty with haunting hazel eyes. But he’s held captive by her quiet strength and the way she sees everything he tries to hide.
Soon, an unlikely friendship becomes so much more. But when forces from Addie’s life slink out of the shadows, they could both lose everything they fought so hard for—down to their very last breaths…
392 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2022
2779 people are currently reading
12434 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Cowles
53 books27.9k followersWriter of words. Drinker of Diet Cokes. Lover of all things cute and furry, especially her dog. Catherine has had her nose in a book since the time she could read and finally decided to write down some of her own stories. When she's not writing she can be found exploring her home state of Oregon, listening to true crime podcasts, or searching for her next book boyfriend.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,689 reviews
December 4, 2023
he’s the personification of 'in a world of boys he’s a gentleman' and i love them to death 🥺❤️🩹
“I know one thing for sure. I don’t want to go to sleep without you. I want to get you a million different kinds of takeout to try. I want to make fun of dumb commercials with you. I want to rub your feet while you read. What I don’t want is a life without you in it.”
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July 5, 2022
Hidden Waters is book three in the Tattered & Torn series by Catherine Cowles. This is Addie’s book. Addie who has suffered so much at the hands of her family. Addie who bravely got out of the horrible situation she was in and is forging a new life for herself. Addie who has scars, both physical and emotional, but who will stop at nothing to be the woman she wants to be.
Adaline “Addie” Kemper grew up in an abusive environment, where her father was the boss and his wife and daughter were his property. Physical and mental abuse were commonplace. It took Addie until she was twenty four years old before she broke free, before she finally had the courage to accept help and get out. She still lives in Wolf Gap, still risks seeing her father or his friends any time she is in town. But it’s a risk she’s willing to take because she finally has her freedom and will not let them take it away again. She is living in Hayes’s house (from book one) since he lives with his fiance. So when Hayes asks her if she would mind letting his brother move in for a few months she can’t say no, even if having a strange man in the house scares her half to death. Especially since he is so good looking.
Beckett Easton is a dr. and has been out of the country for years working for an organization that provides medical help to people that have no access to doctors. Beckett has never forgiven himself for leaving his family when they needed him the most all those years ago. He is plagued with nightmares both of what his family went through all those years ago and from things he saw in the countries he was working in. He knew it was time to go home to Wolf Gap and make amends. He has set up a private practice and is having a house built but needs somewhere to live other than with his parents so his brother Hayes offered to let him room with Addie in his house. The same Addie that Beckett can’t take his eyes off of every time he is around her. The same Addie that seems scared to death of him.
“Everything around you is gray, and yet you’re cast in every color I could ever imagine.”
Both Beckett and Addie had more in common than they realized. They both had emotional scars they were trying to overcome. In each other, they found peace. They found someone that understood. They found trust. What started as friendship grew quickly to more. But with every step that Addie takes forward in her independence, there is someone there from her past ready to try to yank her back. And when the threats grow from just threats to actions, and her safety is in jeopardy, Beckett will do whatever is necessary to keep her safe.
I loved these two so much but I have to admit that my love for Addie is the strongest. This woman has been through more than any woman ever should be but she wasn’t willing to let it beat her down. She was free and no one was going to take it away from her. And then there’s swoony Dr. Easton. When he’s all alpha and protective, I had to fan myself! These two so deserved happiness and I was so happy when they found it together. But will it be a forever happiness or will Addie’s past take it away from them? This is another beautiful, heart breaking book by this author that I can’t get enough of. The next book in the series, book four, is called Shattered Sea. It will be Laiken’s book, who is Addie’s new boss in this book. I was very intrigued by her and can’t wait to learn her story.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Adaline “Addie” Kemper grew up in an abusive environment, where her father was the boss and his wife and daughter were his property. Physical and mental abuse were commonplace. It took Addie until she was twenty four years old before she broke free, before she finally had the courage to accept help and get out. She still lives in Wolf Gap, still risks seeing her father or his friends any time she is in town. But it’s a risk she’s willing to take because she finally has her freedom and will not let them take it away again. She is living in Hayes’s house (from book one) since he lives with his fiance. So when Hayes asks her if she would mind letting his brother move in for a few months she can’t say no, even if having a strange man in the house scares her half to death. Especially since he is so good looking.
Beckett Easton is a dr. and has been out of the country for years working for an organization that provides medical help to people that have no access to doctors. Beckett has never forgiven himself for leaving his family when they needed him the most all those years ago. He is plagued with nightmares both of what his family went through all those years ago and from things he saw in the countries he was working in. He knew it was time to go home to Wolf Gap and make amends. He has set up a private practice and is having a house built but needs somewhere to live other than with his parents so his brother Hayes offered to let him room with Addie in his house. The same Addie that Beckett can’t take his eyes off of every time he is around her. The same Addie that seems scared to death of him.
“Everything around you is gray, and yet you’re cast in every color I could ever imagine.”
Both Beckett and Addie had more in common than they realized. They both had emotional scars they were trying to overcome. In each other, they found peace. They found someone that understood. They found trust. What started as friendship grew quickly to more. But with every step that Addie takes forward in her independence, there is someone there from her past ready to try to yank her back. And when the threats grow from just threats to actions, and her safety is in jeopardy, Beckett will do whatever is necessary to keep her safe.
I loved these two so much but I have to admit that my love for Addie is the strongest. This woman has been through more than any woman ever should be but she wasn’t willing to let it beat her down. She was free and no one was going to take it away from her. And then there’s swoony Dr. Easton. When he’s all alpha and protective, I had to fan myself! These two so deserved happiness and I was so happy when they found it together. But will it be a forever happiness or will Addie’s past take it away from them? This is another beautiful, heart breaking book by this author that I can’t get enough of. The next book in the series, book four, is called Shattered Sea. It will be Laiken’s book, who is Addie’s new boss in this book. I was very intrigued by her and can’t wait to learn her story.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
December 26, 2023
I am just obsessed with everything Catherine Cowles writes. This book was so special and I really loved Beckett so much. Addie comes from an abusive home that was involved with a cult, so she has lived a fearful and sheltered life. Now, she is staying in a safe place, but finds herself with a new roommate. Addie finds it hard to trust people, but there's something about Beckett that makes her feel safe. Beckett is immodestly protective of Addie and decides to help her live life and try things she's never been allowed to try before. Their relationship was so cute and I just loved the gentle and slow burn nature of it. There is also a bit of suspense at the end that always keeps me on my toes. Overall, I just loved this one and this series is definitely my favorite that Catherine has written so far!
November 12, 2022
3.75 ⭐️ this was very cute but my least favorite in the series so far. i just didn’t feel the emotion & chemistry between the couple even though i really wanted to 😭
i was in love w addie since the first book & becket really intrigued me, that’s probably why it didn’t live up to my expectations. the plot wasn’t my favorite but some parts were very adorable.
i’m having a lovely time w this series & cannot wait for the next book. i will say.. fractured sky.. i just know it will be my favorite 😈
“everything around you is gray & yet you’re cast in every color i can ever imagine”
i was in love w addie since the first book & becket really intrigued me, that’s probably why it didn’t live up to my expectations. the plot wasn’t my favorite but some parts were very adorable.
i’m having a lovely time w this series & cannot wait for the next book. i will say.. fractured sky.. i just know it will be my favorite 😈
“everything around you is gray & yet you’re cast in every color i can ever imagine”
December 28, 2024
4 stars
Hidden Waters is the third book of the ‘Tattered & Torn’ series and I enjoyed it so much. I especially loved Addie, Beckett was great, and they were the perfect pair!
Hidden Waters is the third book of the ‘Tattered & Torn’ series and I enjoyed it so much. I especially loved Addie, Beckett was great, and they were the perfect pair!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Ava Erickson & Sebastian York
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 9h 13m
June 14, 2022
The Tattered & Torn series is one of my ultimate favorites and Hidden Waters is book three of the reasons why. Addie and Beckett’s story is heart-achingly beautiful. It’s a tale of finding yourself beyond the trauma of the past and discovering the person you want to forge a brighter future with. A romance that combines family saga, searing chemistry, and thrilling suspense—Hidden Waters is another 2022 must-read from Catherine Cowles!
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June 21, 2022Addie and Beckett's steamy and suspenseful romance is LIVE and readers are saying their story is their favorite of the series! I'm so excited for all you to fall for these two! Here's what's in store for you when you do...
💜 A Damaged Doctor Hero
💜 A Heroine Looking to Escape Her Past
💜 An Unlikely Spark Between Roommates
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Audible: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsAdbl
Get Your Copy ➝
Amazon: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsAmzn
Apple Books: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsAppl
Kobo: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsKobo
Google Play: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsGooglePlay
Audible: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsAdbl
💜 A Damaged Doctor Hero
💜 A Heroine Looking to Escape Her Past
💜 An Unlikely Spark Between Roommates
ONE-CLICK NOW!
Amazon: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsAmzn
Apple Books: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsAppl
Nook: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsNook
Kobo: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsKobo
Google Play: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsGooglePlay
Audible: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsAdbl
Get Your Copy ➝
Amazon: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsAmzn
Apple Books: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsAppl
Kobo: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsKobo
Google Play: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsGooglePlay
Audible: https://geni.us/HddnWtrsAdbl
June 12, 2022
catherine cowles really outdid herself with this book. this is the 3rd book in the tattered & torn series ‘Beckett’s & Addie’s' story and it delivered heartache + healing with a touch of small town romance and suspense. this author is a new fav go to author since i discovered her books and her stories always left me wanting more.
tropes: small town, roommates to lovers, forced proximity, hurt/comfort
“What are you capable of?”
“Anything.”
I should’ve been afraid of the darkness that had slipped into his tone, his eyes, his aura. But I found I couldn’t muster the fear when it came to Beckett Easton. I’d seen too much of his light. I’d felt it. There might be a gruffness to his exterior at times, but the inside held nothing but gentle kindness.”
beckett our H is a hot shot doctor who’s battling with his demons from his past. i’m so in love with him. he has such a gentle soul and is so caring and thoughtful i was swooning through the whole book. he was also very protective over addie and you could see that he wouldn’t hesitate to kill someone for her who wronged or hurt her.
“Beauty in the strength that carried you through. Beauty in how you refused to be broken. Beauty that you never let yourself become cruel like him. Addie, there isn’t a thing about you that isn’t beautiful.”
addie our h is a sweet quiet but strong and resilient fighter who’s trying to escape her past. we see her journey of overcoming all her trauma and her healing which is so beautiful to witness and i’m so proud of her and beckett for not letting the bad stuff control their lives and for the way they fought for their HEA.
i loved everything about beckettaddie and their bonus epilogue was the cherry on top. they both deserve the whole world and every happiness. you can clearly see that they are each other’s soul mates.
i’m so excited for the next book 'Shattered Sea' and we also meet the heroine in this book who i’m quite intrigued with.
we also find out the hero for catherine’s first book of her new upcoming series and i’m so ready for whatever catherine is planning for him.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
tropes: small town, roommates to lovers, forced proximity, hurt/comfort
“What are you capable of?”
“Anything.”
I should’ve been afraid of the darkness that had slipped into his tone, his eyes, his aura. But I found I couldn’t muster the fear when it came to Beckett Easton. I’d seen too much of his light. I’d felt it. There might be a gruffness to his exterior at times, but the inside held nothing but gentle kindness.”
beckett our H is a hot shot doctor who’s battling with his demons from his past. i’m so in love with him. he has such a gentle soul and is so caring and thoughtful i was swooning through the whole book. he was also very protective over addie and you could see that he wouldn’t hesitate to kill someone for her who wronged or hurt her.
“Beauty in the strength that carried you through. Beauty in how you refused to be broken. Beauty that you never let yourself become cruel like him. Addie, there isn’t a thing about you that isn’t beautiful.”
addie our h is a sweet quiet but strong and resilient fighter who’s trying to escape her past. we see her journey of overcoming all her trauma and her healing which is so beautiful to witness and i’m so proud of her and beckett for not letting the bad stuff control their lives and for the way they fought for their HEA.
i loved everything about beckettaddie and their bonus epilogue was the cherry on top. they both deserve the whole world and every happiness. you can clearly see that they are each other’s soul mates.
i’m so excited for the next book 'Shattered Sea' and we also meet the heroine in this book who i’m quite intrigued with.
we also find out the hero for catherine’s first book of her new upcoming series and i’m so ready for whatever catherine is planning for him.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2023
#0.5 Snowbound — 2 stars
#1 Tattered Stars — 2.75 stars
#2 Falling Embers — 2 stars
note: i binge read this series in January. considering its been four months and the fact that basically every single book has the same formula, my memories were all tattered & torn. 🥴 however, i’d say that in general all the books have similar character backgrounds & trauma; the romance is a slow burn angst that somehow feels instalove and lacks depth/chemistry; the steam is mostly nonexistent/closed door; and the mystery/suspense plotline is wholly predictable. 🙃 i dont recommend this author UNLESS youre reading her books on audio while doing something else more productive. these books are good enough to pass the time and dont require much brain power, but theyre not interesting enough to leave lasting impression. 🙌
as for Hidden Waters specifically, from what i can recall i think . . . this was simply sweet all around. i was quite looking forward to reading this book because i have a soft spot for quiet, skittish, shy or just heroines who seem delicate/fragile on the outside but has the strength of a lioness on the inside, and Addie (h) was more or less like that. she comes from an abusive family and is very sheltered & fearful. shes also the cousin of Everly (h of book 1), and i lowkey judged her for not taking Addie with her when she left town years ago. but its okay cause Addie ended up saving herself from her fathers tyranny. 👏 i liked seeing her grow and experience mundane things she didnt get to before. i adored Beckett (H) for helping her come out of her shell.
(read as an audiobook)
#1 Tattered Stars — 2.75 stars
#2 Falling Embers — 2 stars
note: i binge read this series in January. considering its been four months and the fact that basically every single book has the same formula, my memories were all tattered & torn. 🥴 however, i’d say that in general all the books have similar character backgrounds & trauma; the romance is a slow burn angst that somehow feels instalove and lacks depth/chemistry; the steam is mostly nonexistent/closed door; and the mystery/suspense plotline is wholly predictable. 🙃 i dont recommend this author UNLESS youre reading her books on audio while doing something else more productive. these books are good enough to pass the time and dont require much brain power, but theyre not interesting enough to leave lasting impression. 🙌
as for Hidden Waters specifically, from what i can recall i think . . . this was simply sweet all around. i was quite looking forward to reading this book because i have a soft spot for quiet, skittish, shy or just heroines who seem delicate/fragile on the outside but has the strength of a lioness on the inside, and Addie (h) was more or less like that. she comes from an abusive family and is very sheltered & fearful. shes also the cousin of Everly (h of book 1), and i lowkey judged her for not taking Addie with her when she left town years ago. but its okay cause Addie ended up saving herself from her fathers tyranny. 👏 i liked seeing her grow and experience mundane things she didnt get to before. i adored Beckett (H) for helping her come out of her shell.
(read as an audiobook)
June 4, 2022
Oh, my heart, y'all, I’m calling it now. One of my top five reads. Ever! Just when I think she's given us her best, I’m pretty sure Cowles just chuckles and says, “hold my beer.” I think I joined the party with her sophomore offering, and it makes my reader's heart immeasurably happy to watch her blossom and grow and master her craft. Every world she creates is one I want to live in, and her characters will forever own real estate in my heart.
Our heroine, Addie? This girl is a rock star! Despite escaping life-long abuse at the hands of her vile father and the danger that seems to dog her heels continually, she’s strong and brave and fierce – a true warrior. She’s also gentle and kind and compassionate, with the most wise, beautiful soul. Addie may be wounded and scarred, but she's never broken.
With the help of her cousin Everly and her cousin's fiancé Hayes and his family, Addie is living on her own in Hayes' house now that he and Everly are living together. When Hayes' brother Beckett finally returns to Wolf Gap and needs a place to live temporarily, Addie finds out what it’s like to have a roommate. Yes, she's apprehensive being that close to another human, but it doesn’t take long for her to see that Beckett is battling his own demons, and maybe they each have something the other needs.
With her trademark thrilling drama and nail-biting suspense Cowles gives us an emotional romance that plays our heartstrings like a master virtuoso. Watching Addie overcome so much horror and cruelty with dignity and grace is everything! Yes, it's a heart-stopping ride from beginning to end, but it's also a poignant love story about two wounded souls who help the other heal and cheer the other on as they become the best versions of themselves along their road to happiness.
Stunningly powerful yet heart-breakingly tender, I would give this amazing story a thousand stars if possible. Run, don’t walk to the 1-Click and start reading this remarkable story today. You'll fall in love with these phenomenal characters and your romantic heart will love you for it.
Our heroine, Addie? This girl is a rock star! Despite escaping life-long abuse at the hands of her vile father and the danger that seems to dog her heels continually, she’s strong and brave and fierce – a true warrior. She’s also gentle and kind and compassionate, with the most wise, beautiful soul. Addie may be wounded and scarred, but she's never broken.
With the help of her cousin Everly and her cousin's fiancé Hayes and his family, Addie is living on her own in Hayes' house now that he and Everly are living together. When Hayes' brother Beckett finally returns to Wolf Gap and needs a place to live temporarily, Addie finds out what it’s like to have a roommate. Yes, she's apprehensive being that close to another human, but it doesn’t take long for her to see that Beckett is battling his own demons, and maybe they each have something the other needs.
With her trademark thrilling drama and nail-biting suspense Cowles gives us an emotional romance that plays our heartstrings like a master virtuoso. Watching Addie overcome so much horror and cruelty with dignity and grace is everything! Yes, it's a heart-stopping ride from beginning to end, but it's also a poignant love story about two wounded souls who help the other heal and cheer the other on as they become the best versions of themselves along their road to happiness.
Stunningly powerful yet heart-breakingly tender, I would give this amazing story a thousand stars if possible. Run, don’t walk to the 1-Click and start reading this remarkable story today. You'll fall in love with these phenomenal characters and your romantic heart will love you for it.
July 12, 2025
4⭑
This book follows Addie, who grew up with an extremely abusive father who kept her away from society. When she manages to escape, she moves into her cousin’s husbands empty house. However soon after, her cousin’s husband’s brother, Beckett, needs somewhere to stay as he recently moved into town.
Addie and Beckett form a fast friendship and spend all their free time together. Addie, is still being hassled by her father and some of the people he knows and so Beckett becomes her protector.
You feel so much sympathy towards Addie during the entire book when you learn what she’s been through but at the same time you can’t help but root for her as she works through her personal bucket list to achieve things she always wanted - to get her first job, get her GED, learn to drive, and Beckett helps her along every step of the way.
They have both experienced a lot of trauma but the way they were there for each other was so heartwarming and I liked that the development to friends into lovers was more of a slow burn.
This is my first book by this author and I highly enjoyed it. I will definitely be picking up her other books!
Thank you to Catherine Cowles for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book follows Addie, who grew up with an extremely abusive father who kept her away from society. When she manages to escape, she moves into her cousin’s husbands empty house. However soon after, her cousin’s husband’s brother, Beckett, needs somewhere to stay as he recently moved into town.
Addie and Beckett form a fast friendship and spend all their free time together. Addie, is still being hassled by her father and some of the people he knows and so Beckett becomes her protector.
You feel so much sympathy towards Addie during the entire book when you learn what she’s been through but at the same time you can’t help but root for her as she works through her personal bucket list to achieve things she always wanted - to get her first job, get her GED, learn to drive, and Beckett helps her along every step of the way.
They have both experienced a lot of trauma but the way they were there for each other was so heartwarming and I liked that the development to friends into lovers was more of a slow burn.
This is my first book by this author and I highly enjoyed it. I will definitely be picking up her other books!
Thank you to Catherine Cowles for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 24, 2022
Addie is out on her own after being under the harsh authority of her father and trying to live a normal life. However, living in the same town means she’s bumping into him or his friends whenever she’s in town and it put me on edge for her!
Beckett has just come back to his hometown, serving as the new town doctor, and needs a place to stay while his house is being built. Addie is staying at his brother's old house, but as the house is huge, they suggest he stay with Addie. At first Addie isn’t happy, but soon they’re friends and she can’t imagine not having him in her space. They get close and protective of each other, feeling of attraction growing deeper every day.
Hidden Waters was harrowing at times with an undercurrent of suspense through the story because of the constant threat of her father and his workers lurking about. I hated him and the ideas they had towards women, and it seemed like their way of living off the grid, shunning government and community made it easier to get away with their appalling behavior!
I enjoyed seeing Addie take back her life one experience at a time, empower herself against the vile men who had far too much control over her. Beckett helping along the way. I did wish Addie would’ve taken Beckett up on his offers of protection and rides more, because the threat against her was real and constant. I do get she wanted to be independent and that there was no way someone could be with her 24/7 but still, why not take all the precautions when and where you can? I loved the relationship between Beckett and Addie. They both had past demons to deal with. They were solid friends before anything more happened and it felt like a natural progression when they became everything to each other.
This is my first experience reading Catherine Cowles but won’t be my last! I would love to go back and read the previous couples’ stories too and I look forward to Laiken’s story next!
I listened to the audio version of Hidden Waters narrated by Ava Erickson and Sebastian York. Their performance was excellent and enhanced an already lovely romance! I highly recommend!
A copy was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Beckett has just come back to his hometown, serving as the new town doctor, and needs a place to stay while his house is being built. Addie is staying at his brother's old house, but as the house is huge, they suggest he stay with Addie. At first Addie isn’t happy, but soon they’re friends and she can’t imagine not having him in her space. They get close and protective of each other, feeling of attraction growing deeper every day.
Hidden Waters was harrowing at times with an undercurrent of suspense through the story because of the constant threat of her father and his workers lurking about. I hated him and the ideas they had towards women, and it seemed like their way of living off the grid, shunning government and community made it easier to get away with their appalling behavior!
I enjoyed seeing Addie take back her life one experience at a time, empower herself against the vile men who had far too much control over her. Beckett helping along the way. I did wish Addie would’ve taken Beckett up on his offers of protection and rides more, because the threat against her was real and constant. I do get she wanted to be independent and that there was no way someone could be with her 24/7 but still, why not take all the precautions when and where you can? I loved the relationship between Beckett and Addie. They both had past demons to deal with. They were solid friends before anything more happened and it felt like a natural progression when they became everything to each other.
This is my first experience reading Catherine Cowles but won’t be my last! I would love to go back and read the previous couples’ stories too and I look forward to Laiken’s story next!
I listened to the audio version of Hidden Waters narrated by Ava Erickson and Sebastian York. Their performance was excellent and enhanced an already lovely romance! I highly recommend!
A copy was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 6, 2022
2.5 ⭐️
The only reason I'm actually happy to say I didn't love this l book so much is because once I got super close to the end, I realized that I got a misprinted copy and couldn't finish the story even if I tried - it had one too many blank pages throughout the last 10% of the book... but thankfully I wasn't so into it by that point anyway and didn't really care about the details for how it ended... so it's all good.
In theory, I love reading about damaged characters and protective hero's - but this time, it didn't work for me. Everything about this book felt very surface level and I kept wishing for more in the small details and the big picture. Besides for the fact that I felt no actual chemistry between the two of them... I really wished that we got a bit more build up with Beckett and how/why he was initially so protective of her - that element in him was basicly there from the start and it took away from the impact that a characteristic like that could have had, if it was something that was built up gradually once they started getting closer to one another. And then because he was coddling her so much... I kept getting the pitying/hurt puppy vibes from her instead of a strong individual who's been through so much and is learning to thrive in her freedom.... it wasn't giving off a hot sort of protective vibe... it felt smothering and even a bit cringy/awkward at times - their whole dynamic just felt off to me and I wasn't into it.
I think I was just expecting a bit more from this story because the first book in this companion series was actually the first Catherine Cowles book I ever read - and I was really excited to read Addies story when I met her in that one... but unfortunately this book ended up letting me down for more reasons than I even bothered mentioning.
The only reason I'm actually happy to say I didn't love this l book so much is because once I got super close to the end, I realized that I got a misprinted copy and couldn't finish the story even if I tried - it had one too many blank pages throughout the last 10% of the book... but thankfully I wasn't so into it by that point anyway and didn't really care about the details for how it ended... so it's all good.
In theory, I love reading about damaged characters and protective hero's - but this time, it didn't work for me. Everything about this book felt very surface level and I kept wishing for more in the small details and the big picture. Besides for the fact that I felt no actual chemistry between the two of them... I really wished that we got a bit more build up with Beckett and how/why he was initially so protective of her - that element in him was basicly there from the start and it took away from the impact that a characteristic like that could have had, if it was something that was built up gradually once they started getting closer to one another. And then because he was coddling her so much... I kept getting the pitying/hurt puppy vibes from her instead of a strong individual who's been through so much and is learning to thrive in her freedom.... it wasn't giving off a hot sort of protective vibe... it felt smothering and even a bit cringy/awkward at times - their whole dynamic just felt off to me and I wasn't into it.
I think I was just expecting a bit more from this story because the first book in this companion series was actually the first Catherine Cowles book I ever read - and I was really excited to read Addies story when I met her in that one... but unfortunately this book ended up letting me down for more reasons than I even bothered mentioning.
Read
June 6, 2022review and rating closer to release date💓
September 1, 2022
stop it i have to wait until sept. 13 to read the next book 😭
May 21, 2025
Sweet couple but struggled to connect with both characters. Everything felt very surface level. I'm coming to realize this is a low angst series. Which is fine but considering this is Romantic Suspense and how this series deals with a lot of trauma and dark heavy themes, the lack of angst and tension doesn't really work great for me. The writing feels very lackluster. Which is so frustrating given the heavy emotional detailed backstories to these characters. You give such depth to the backstories but can't flesh out the romance? :<
Here you have a deeply traumatized heroine who escaped an abusive life living under the thumb of her tyrannical father who beat and abused her her entire life. Allen Kemper kept his daughter Addie a virtual prisoner on their ranch. She's been under his control and the only person who protected her was her mother who mysteriously abandoned her as a child so she's had to face him and his ranch hand followers all alone. Addie's family is part of the prepper community in Wolf Gap, a paranoid small community where they don't believe in modern medicine, law or intervention of any kind and live off their own land. They like to "prep" in case of hostile takeovers. The men treat the women like property who aren't allowed any autonomy of their own. When Addie's cousin Everly returns to Wolf Gap in Book 1 and finds her happiness it gives Addie the courage to escape her father and that community. Here she's trying to make her own way, build her own life and gets thrown in Beckett's orbit where they are roommates in the same house. That premise was super intriguing and had me eager to pick this up. (*ETA after reading Book 5: We are told about this cult "community" through all these books but besides Addie's father, uncle and cousin, and a few of their loyal ranch hands there isn't any followers beyond that. So I guess I'm just wondering how it's a community and one that has such a menacing hold when it doesn't have that many followers? Big numbers don't necessarily make a community but Cowles makes it seem bigger than it is from the very first book when we aren't really seeing anything beyond this one small family living off the grid)
Same problems I had with Hayes and Everly's story in Book 1 still stands here unfortunately. While we do get more page time and focus on the couple, stuff still felt very fast, easy and quick. It just was very predictable. Beckett was a sweet hero but I was expecting a lot more tension and gradual build up between him and Addie. Especially with him introducing her to her firsts she missed out on. Taking her on her first date? Never happens. She's not a virgin but finally going that far with a man should have been made a bigger deal IMO considering the life she lived. Trust is a very big deal for her and she doesn't like being vulnerable. Same as Everly, Addie kept grinding out "I can take care of myself" and snapping at her cousin for even worrying about her (and this happens literally every time Everly even tries talking to her and it felt a bit extreme?) as if the words were enough to show her strength. And it made her do some questionable and foolish things for the sake of the thin suspense plot. Same with the men, why on earth would you not search the home the suspect was staying at after he shot his wife in the stomach??? You're telling me the Sheriff couldn't have any sway over getting a search warrant? The victim saying her husband's name isn't enough probable cause? Hayes just HAS to go by the book every time? Seriously? A woman's life is on the line. The author made Hayes look like a fumbling idiot and it aggravated me because 3 days of torture and abuse to the heroine could have been easily avoided. :/
Introducing her to new foods and life experiences was also a let down. I was expecting it to be shown more and made a bigger deal. Growing up she wasn't even allowed to eat junk food or anything foreign, she was forced to cook only the foods her father wanted. I wanted us to see her reaction to trying new things overall. But the reactions are few and far in between. I just didn't understand what was the point of having your heroine break free from an oppressive abusive life only to skip over her trying new things in her life....? Beckett does teach her how to drive and takes her to get her ears pierced for example but that's pretty much it. That was sweet but I wanted more. That's what lured me into reading this, how he introduces her to new experiences.
Catherine Cowles likes to just skim the surface of things and quickly move on which makes everything fall almost flat. The character development is barely there. For a hero, Beckett lacked depth. Addie was supposed to be terrified of the hero at the beginning. The first chapter Beckett is randomly cornering her and growling her name when he runs into her on the street. That honestly made me think we were gonna get a temperamental grouchy brooding hero but that's not what we get. He loses his temper once and that's it. Growling brooding Beckett quickly dissolves and disappears out of nowhere within the first 3 chapters. Addie quickly relaxes around him and opens up to him cause he's easy to talk to. It kind of felt like telling rather than showing at times. It just felt easy going Beckett could be mistaken for his brother Hayes from Book 1. And that's fine but I just don't love formulaic writing especially in a series where I'm interested in future pairings. Everything and everyone sounds the same and it just falls flat with zero nuance. I want to read Shiloh's story but I can already sense we are gonna get the same cut and dry treatment and that feels like a missed opportunity considering Shiloh's dark history and who she is being paired with. I'm just gonna take a wild guess that Wes Ramsey the mysterious recluse horse trainer is also gonna be "barking out a laugh" (seriously Cowles you can't come up with another adjective?) at every opportunity not even halfway into the story. 😬 If I wasn't already invested in seeing Shiloh get her HEA I would have walked away because I think Catherine Cowles isn't for me.
Also, you wanna surprise the woman you love how about putting more effort in the surprise than just driving up to your house and proposing in the dang car? :/
Here you have a deeply traumatized heroine who escaped an abusive life living under the thumb of her tyrannical father who beat and abused her her entire life. Allen Kemper kept his daughter Addie a virtual prisoner on their ranch. She's been under his control and the only person who protected her was her mother who mysteriously abandoned her as a child so she's had to face him and his ranch hand followers all alone. Addie's family is part of the prepper community in Wolf Gap, a paranoid small community where they don't believe in modern medicine, law or intervention of any kind and live off their own land. They like to "prep" in case of hostile takeovers. The men treat the women like property who aren't allowed any autonomy of their own. When Addie's cousin Everly returns to Wolf Gap in Book 1 and finds her happiness it gives Addie the courage to escape her father and that community. Here she's trying to make her own way, build her own life and gets thrown in Beckett's orbit where they are roommates in the same house. That premise was super intriguing and had me eager to pick this up. (*ETA after reading Book 5: We are told about this cult "community" through all these books but besides Addie's father, uncle and cousin, and a few of their loyal ranch hands there isn't any followers beyond that. So I guess I'm just wondering how it's a community and one that has such a menacing hold when it doesn't have that many followers? Big numbers don't necessarily make a community but Cowles makes it seem bigger than it is from the very first book when we aren't really seeing anything beyond this one small family living off the grid)
Same problems I had with Hayes and Everly's story in Book 1 still stands here unfortunately. While we do get more page time and focus on the couple, stuff still felt very fast, easy and quick. It just was very predictable. Beckett was a sweet hero but I was expecting a lot more tension and gradual build up between him and Addie. Especially with him introducing her to her firsts she missed out on. Taking her on her first date? Never happens. She's not a virgin but finally going that far with a man should have been made a bigger deal IMO considering the life she lived. Trust is a very big deal for her and she doesn't like being vulnerable. Same as Everly, Addie kept grinding out "I can take care of myself" and snapping at her cousin for even worrying about her (and this happens literally every time Everly even tries talking to her and it felt a bit extreme?) as if the words were enough to show her strength. And it made her do some questionable and foolish things for the sake of the thin suspense plot. Same with the men, why on earth would you not search the home the suspect was staying at after he shot his wife in the stomach??? You're telling me the Sheriff couldn't have any sway over getting a search warrant? The victim saying her husband's name isn't enough probable cause? Hayes just HAS to go by the book every time? Seriously? A woman's life is on the line. The author made Hayes look like a fumbling idiot and it aggravated me because 3 days of torture and abuse to the heroine could have been easily avoided. :/
Introducing her to new foods and life experiences was also a let down. I was expecting it to be shown more and made a bigger deal. Growing up she wasn't even allowed to eat junk food or anything foreign, she was forced to cook only the foods her father wanted. I wanted us to see her reaction to trying new things overall. But the reactions are few and far in between. I just didn't understand what was the point of having your heroine break free from an oppressive abusive life only to skip over her trying new things in her life....? Beckett does teach her how to drive and takes her to get her ears pierced for example but that's pretty much it. That was sweet but I wanted more. That's what lured me into reading this, how he introduces her to new experiences.
Catherine Cowles likes to just skim the surface of things and quickly move on which makes everything fall almost flat. The character development is barely there. For a hero, Beckett lacked depth. Addie was supposed to be terrified of the hero at the beginning. The first chapter Beckett is randomly cornering her and growling her name when he runs into her on the street. That honestly made me think we were gonna get a temperamental grouchy brooding hero but that's not what we get. He loses his temper once and that's it. Growling brooding Beckett quickly dissolves and disappears out of nowhere within the first 3 chapters. Addie quickly relaxes around him and opens up to him cause he's easy to talk to. It kind of felt like telling rather than showing at times. It just felt easy going Beckett could be mistaken for his brother Hayes from Book 1. And that's fine but I just don't love formulaic writing especially in a series where I'm interested in future pairings. Everything and everyone sounds the same and it just falls flat with zero nuance. I want to read Shiloh's story but I can already sense we are gonna get the same cut and dry treatment and that feels like a missed opportunity considering Shiloh's dark history and who she is being paired with. I'm just gonna take a wild guess that Wes Ramsey the mysterious recluse horse trainer is also gonna be "barking out a laugh" (seriously Cowles you can't come up with another adjective?) at every opportunity not even halfway into the story. 😬 If I wasn't already invested in seeing Shiloh get her HEA I would have walked away because I think Catherine Cowles isn't for me.
Also, you wanna surprise the woman you love how about putting more effort in the surprise than just driving up to your house and proposing in the dang car? :/
September 28, 2022
Hidden Waters is the third book in the Tattered and Torn series by Catherine Cowles, a small town series. I had the best time binging/catching up with the books out so far in the series. This book was angsty and emotional and I loved it!
Addie is the cousin of Everly, the heroine of book (Tattered Stars), and she lived in the same type of environment growing up…their fathers were preppers, anti government, believe in living off the grid/off the land, don’t seek medical care, all those type of things. Addie did escape and get away and now in this book she’s having to learn to live a “normal life” so to speak: getting her GED, learning to drive/drivers license, getting a job, learning about computers and technology. She’s been living in her cousin Everly’s home when Everly asks if her brother-in-law can move in with her for a bit while his home is being built.
Beckett is a doctor and he returned to Wolf Gap after his sister Hadley got injured in the previous book (Falling Embers). He’s been living back at home with his parents while his house gets built but is going a little crazy cooped up there. His brother Hayes, the local sheriff and hero of book 1, tells him Addie is fine with them becoming roommates for a bit. I really liked seeing the friendship that Addie and Beckett form, they both have some emotional trauma from their pasts that they have to work through and I liked seeing them open up to one another about that. Beckett decides to setup a clinic near the people who live off the grid and further out of town so I liked seeing how Addie assisted him with that. Of course it isn’t a Catherine Cowles book without some kidnapping 😅 but I really enjoyed the romantic suspense element to this one! I just really enjoy this series and all the cast of characters, I cannot wait for the next books!
Addie is the cousin of Everly, the heroine of book (Tattered Stars), and she lived in the same type of environment growing up…their fathers were preppers, anti government, believe in living off the grid/off the land, don’t seek medical care, all those type of things. Addie did escape and get away and now in this book she’s having to learn to live a “normal life” so to speak: getting her GED, learning to drive/drivers license, getting a job, learning about computers and technology. She’s been living in her cousin Everly’s home when Everly asks if her brother-in-law can move in with her for a bit while his home is being built.
Beckett is a doctor and he returned to Wolf Gap after his sister Hadley got injured in the previous book (Falling Embers). He’s been living back at home with his parents while his house gets built but is going a little crazy cooped up there. His brother Hayes, the local sheriff and hero of book 1, tells him Addie is fine with them becoming roommates for a bit. I really liked seeing the friendship that Addie and Beckett form, they both have some emotional trauma from their pasts that they have to work through and I liked seeing them open up to one another about that. Beckett decides to setup a clinic near the people who live off the grid and further out of town so I liked seeing how Addie assisted him with that. Of course it isn’t a Catherine Cowles book without some kidnapping 😅 but I really enjoyed the romantic suspense element to this one! I just really enjoy this series and all the cast of characters, I cannot wait for the next books!
July 25, 2022
Look if I enjoyed the book, I'm rating it 5 stars. I had such a good time reading this book. Time went so fast because I was having so much fun, so I finished this so quicklyyyy. I totally have to read the previous two books, because I met them in this book and I'm rather intrigued by their love stories as well.
If you love small-town romances with a little bit of suspense, read this book. It's a roommates to lovers romance as well. The couple is so cute, I'm obsessed with them. Addie is someone who has been abused by her father for a very long time. She's finally free, but his presence is still near. (He still lives in the same town). So, it's difficult for her to trust, mainly men, but everyone really. Because everyone has let her down; her mom, her cousin, her neighbors. But then, Beckett needs a place to stay and she agrees to let him stay even though she's a bit nervous about this whole change.
They soon become friends and it's so cute to see their relationship develop and grow. They take care of each other. It's so sweet and my heart was swooning every single chapter!! Beckett wanted to give her everything and he was ready to drop down on his knee from chapter one. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
If you love small-town romances with a little bit of suspense, read this book. It's a roommates to lovers romance as well. The couple is so cute, I'm obsessed with them. Addie is someone who has been abused by her father for a very long time. She's finally free, but his presence is still near. (He still lives in the same town). So, it's difficult for her to trust, mainly men, but everyone really. Because everyone has let her down; her mom, her cousin, her neighbors. But then, Beckett needs a place to stay and she agrees to let him stay even though she's a bit nervous about this whole change.
They soon become friends and it's so cute to see their relationship develop and grow. They take care of each other. It's so sweet and my heart was swooning every single chapter!! Beckett wanted to give her everything and he was ready to drop down on his knee from chapter one. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
September 14, 2022
4.75⭐️ rtc
April 15, 2024
4,25 ⭐️
So good. I love it when the heroine is in danger and the MMC is rlly protective of her! I think this one is by far the most hard to read of the series, but I'm glad everyone got the ending they deserved! 🩷
So good. I love it when the heroine is in danger and the MMC is rlly protective of her! I think this one is by far the most hard to read of the series, but I'm glad everyone got the ending they deserved! 🩷
November 18, 2022
Another hit in this series!
We have
✨ super strong heroine (abuse survivor from her cult-like family)
✨ protective, doctor hero
✨ friends to lovers (the longing and slow burn YALL)
✨ roommates (oh my gosh they were roommates)
This is my fav so far, can't wait to dive into the last two books. 🥹
↣ Tattered & Torn series ↢
We have
✨ super strong heroine (abuse survivor from her cult-like family)
✨ protective, doctor hero
✨ friends to lovers (the longing and slow burn YALL)
✨ roommates (oh my gosh they were roommates)
This is my fav so far, can't wait to dive into the last two books. 🥹
↣ Tattered & Torn series ↢
#1 Tattered Stars – 3.75 ⭐️
#2 Falling Embers – 2.5 ⭐️
#3 Hidden Waters – 4 ⭐️
#4 Shattered Sea – 2 ⭐️
~
i-m-a-quitter
July 6, 2022Calling it quits at 48%!
Just not feeling this one.
Picked it up in an attempt to read it as a standalone but I feel like I am missing a lot of Addie's background story.
And IDK, I'm just not connecting with the characters enough where I care much about what happens.
Too many books, too little time.....
Just not feeling this one.
Picked it up in an attempt to read it as a standalone but I feel like I am missing a lot of Addie's background story.
And IDK, I'm just not connecting with the characters enough where I care much about what happens.
Too many books, too little time.....
January 31, 2023
omg they were perfect 😭🤍
March 29, 2022
Loved it! Another great small town, suspense romance. The audiobook, as always, was so well done.
I really adored the heroine and how hard she fought for her own HEA. She had such grit and determination.
Her hero was absolutely perfect for her, understanding and kind. I loved how he wanted to help and use his knowledge for the benefit of the town.
This is absolutely my favorite Catherine Cowles world at the moment
AUDIO ARC
I really adored the heroine and how hard she fought for her own HEA. She had such grit and determination.
Her hero was absolutely perfect for her, understanding and kind. I loved how he wanted to help and use his knowledge for the benefit of the town.
This is absolutely my favorite Catherine Cowles world at the moment
AUDIO ARC
June 20, 2022
Addie grew up as an only child with her mother and father. Her father and the community around him are almost cult-like. The men are the head of the house, the women do all the chores and are to be seen and not heard. They can’t have opinions on anything and children must obey every rule the father sets in place for his house.
There is also a huge mistrust of anyone outside of their community. This includes things like seeking healthcare and advice from a professional person. The men are in charge of their families wellbeing and know what is best for them. They follow their own laws. If you go against them or challenge them, punishments will be forthcoming.
Addie’s mother left her with her father years ago and this is something she has always struggled with. Thankfully, she no longer lives under the thumb of her father and is trying to find her own way in the world with the help of her cousin Everly. She has lived such a sheltered life and there are so many new things to discover and experience. She now lives in Hayes house, since he moved in with Everly and is enjoying her independence.
When Beckett needs somewhere to stay while his house is being built, Hayes thinks that sharing a house with Addie might be a good thing for both of them. Addie does want to braver about new experiences so she agrees to being a roommate with him, she remembers him from when they were younger. And to be honest, it’s nice to have a bit of company.
‘I wanted to trust in that kindness. To believe that it was just who Beckett was. But I wasn’t programmed that way. Years of living under my father’s thumb had me second-guessing every person’s motives.’
Beckett enjoys introducing new things to Addie, he is gobsmacked about how much she missed out on growing up. He becomes quite protective of her, especially when she has encounters with her father and his circle of friends. They always leave her a bit shaken but she is definitely more confident about using her voice, letting them know they can no longer control her. She had such an awful childhood but it has given her a clear understanding of what her boundaries are going forward. She knows her worth.
‘I’m not helpless, Beckett. I’ve been keeping myself alive for a long time. I don’t need you to step in and play the hero.’
Beckett is the new local GP, he has taken over the Wolf Gap medical clinic. He has been away for a long time, trying to deal with the guilt he carries after his sister was kidnapped. He completely blames himself for what happened that day, no one else in his family thinks like this and it’s something he needs to work through.
Over time a beautiful connection develops between Beckett and Addie. It grows from friendship to so much more and another first for Addie. She had begun to look at other couples with envy and wondering if she could ever have a special someone in her life to build a future with. There is nothing Beckett won’t do to protect Addie and when danger comes knocking on their door, he will stop and nothing to make sure that danger is removed from her life once and for all.
Addie has appeared in the previous books of this series and I was wondering how her own story would play out. I love how things unfolded between her and Beckett, she recognised the pain in sorrow he tried to keep hidden away and they found a way to make peace with their past and move forward into a beautiful future together.
There is also a huge mistrust of anyone outside of their community. This includes things like seeking healthcare and advice from a professional person. The men are in charge of their families wellbeing and know what is best for them. They follow their own laws. If you go against them or challenge them, punishments will be forthcoming.
Addie’s mother left her with her father years ago and this is something she has always struggled with. Thankfully, she no longer lives under the thumb of her father and is trying to find her own way in the world with the help of her cousin Everly. She has lived such a sheltered life and there are so many new things to discover and experience. She now lives in Hayes house, since he moved in with Everly and is enjoying her independence.
When Beckett needs somewhere to stay while his house is being built, Hayes thinks that sharing a house with Addie might be a good thing for both of them. Addie does want to braver about new experiences so she agrees to being a roommate with him, she remembers him from when they were younger. And to be honest, it’s nice to have a bit of company.
‘I wanted to trust in that kindness. To believe that it was just who Beckett was. But I wasn’t programmed that way. Years of living under my father’s thumb had me second-guessing every person’s motives.’
Beckett enjoys introducing new things to Addie, he is gobsmacked about how much she missed out on growing up. He becomes quite protective of her, especially when she has encounters with her father and his circle of friends. They always leave her a bit shaken but she is definitely more confident about using her voice, letting them know they can no longer control her. She had such an awful childhood but it has given her a clear understanding of what her boundaries are going forward. She knows her worth.
‘I’m not helpless, Beckett. I’ve been keeping myself alive for a long time. I don’t need you to step in and play the hero.’
Beckett is the new local GP, he has taken over the Wolf Gap medical clinic. He has been away for a long time, trying to deal with the guilt he carries after his sister was kidnapped. He completely blames himself for what happened that day, no one else in his family thinks like this and it’s something he needs to work through.
Over time a beautiful connection develops between Beckett and Addie. It grows from friendship to so much more and another first for Addie. She had begun to look at other couples with envy and wondering if she could ever have a special someone in her life to build a future with. There is nothing Beckett won’t do to protect Addie and when danger comes knocking on their door, he will stop and nothing to make sure that danger is removed from her life once and for all.
Addie has appeared in the previous books of this series and I was wondering how her own story would play out. I love how things unfolded between her and Beckett, she recognised the pain in sorrow he tried to keep hidden away and they found a way to make peace with their past and move forward into a beautiful future together.
March 22, 2024
4.5 stats. I loved the pacing and the story build up and was very invested in Addie & Beckett. But Addie really is the one that stole the show with her strength & resilience in spite of everything she had gone through. My favorite in the series and I doubt the remaining two will beat this.
June 23, 2022
This book has everything I love to read about.
A damaged but strong, determined heroine.. a very kind, supportive and protective hero who's perfect for his girl... and the story's full of suspense.
A damaged but strong, determined heroine.. a very kind, supportive and protective hero who's perfect for his girl... and the story's full of suspense.
June 21, 2022
Oh my heart! What a beautifully told, deliciously emotive, and heart-soaring love story. No one writes sweet and tender romantic suspense like Catherine Cowles, and the Tattered and Torn series has fast become my favorite from her. The suspense, the sweeping romance, the smalltown setting, the heartfelt storytelling are all so captivating, so deftly delivered. But Hidden Waters just just claimed my favorite spot- the best of the series and one of my all time favorite Catherine Cowles stories. The drama, the suspense, the heartfelt connection of this beautiful couple! I’m so in love.
The Tattered and Torn series introduced us to a small town with quite a bit of nefarious drama, and a cast of characters all interconnected by one tragic act that has had a ripple effect on all of them, from the past to the present. Each character is tattered and torn in their own way, broken by the trauma of their history and weighed down by the choices they made, or didn’t make, in its wake. Not only does it make for really intensely emotional stories, but it’s given us characters who capture our hearts so completely in their vulnerability, who mesmerize us with their layers of pain and healing, fear and hope. Addie in particular captured my heart from the first time we met her. The sweet and restrained cousin of Everly who unlike Everly was never able to get out of the toxic repression of her family and their backwards beliefs. Like Everly, she’s suffered over the years because of the past, but she never escaped the abuse, until Everly came home. So I knew her story would be emotional, painful, full of a girl trying to find her life and identity after so many years of suffering. And Catherine does not disappoint- this story is everything and more!
Addie is such a beautiful character- my all time favorite Catherine heroine. While Addie has been a victim to her family’s patriarchal, restricted culture, her story is one of empowerment and healing. Addie now finds herself creating a life anew, engaging in a world where she’s a stranger. But she’s so courageous in figuring things out- even if she’s shy and hesitant, even when she feels like an outsider. She broke my heart and healed it. She’s a deeply vulnerable and gentled character, but she has a quiet resolve and strength that steals your heart. She’s a survivor, and she’s determined to stand on her own two feet. She’s been battered, but she’s not broken. She’s still hopeful and kind, compassionate and empathetic- the darkness of her life hasn’t seeped into her powers. She’s a beautiful soul, a rich and vibrant light, and the perfect wake-up call for Beckett.
Beckett, oh my heart. He seemed a bit rough around the edges for our sweet Addie at first, because he has his own baggage, he’s been running from his own demons. But even though he’s hardened at bit by his own pain, his softness comes to the surface to be the perfect friend, and ultimately lover, to our sweet Addie. And he’s a total dreamboat- thoughtful, protective, understanding, and gentle. He’s the perfect match for her- and turns out for him. Not only does he give her a safe place to be, but he’s also her emotional safety. He’s the first man in her life that hasn’t wanted to hurt or control her- he protects her, yes, but he also respects and empowers her. And together they are magical, both enabling the other to confront their pasts, to let go of their pain, so they can build a new future. Together. A new future as more wholly themselves.
And that’s what I love so much about Catherine. Not only do I love the edge of your seat suspense and swoony romance, but I love how she gives us characters who have faced adversity, who have parts of themselves that they need to confront and she helps them discover themselves, discover their strength and find hope and healing. So when they are facing grave danger, they are fighting to survive as the fullest versions of themselves, versions healing their brokenness, no longer drowning in it. And what a beautiful, beautiful thing.
I simply adore this series- it has everything I want in my romance. The perfect, meaningful, and dreamy escape. I can not wait for more- I know Shiloh is going to own my heart.
The Tattered and Torn series introduced us to a small town with quite a bit of nefarious drama, and a cast of characters all interconnected by one tragic act that has had a ripple effect on all of them, from the past to the present. Each character is tattered and torn in their own way, broken by the trauma of their history and weighed down by the choices they made, or didn’t make, in its wake. Not only does it make for really intensely emotional stories, but it’s given us characters who capture our hearts so completely in their vulnerability, who mesmerize us with their layers of pain and healing, fear and hope. Addie in particular captured my heart from the first time we met her. The sweet and restrained cousin of Everly who unlike Everly was never able to get out of the toxic repression of her family and their backwards beliefs. Like Everly, she’s suffered over the years because of the past, but she never escaped the abuse, until Everly came home. So I knew her story would be emotional, painful, full of a girl trying to find her life and identity after so many years of suffering. And Catherine does not disappoint- this story is everything and more!
Addie is such a beautiful character- my all time favorite Catherine heroine. While Addie has been a victim to her family’s patriarchal, restricted culture, her story is one of empowerment and healing. Addie now finds herself creating a life anew, engaging in a world where she’s a stranger. But she’s so courageous in figuring things out- even if she’s shy and hesitant, even when she feels like an outsider. She broke my heart and healed it. She’s a deeply vulnerable and gentled character, but she has a quiet resolve and strength that steals your heart. She’s a survivor, and she’s determined to stand on her own two feet. She’s been battered, but she’s not broken. She’s still hopeful and kind, compassionate and empathetic- the darkness of her life hasn’t seeped into her powers. She’s a beautiful soul, a rich and vibrant light, and the perfect wake-up call for Beckett.
Beckett, oh my heart. He seemed a bit rough around the edges for our sweet Addie at first, because he has his own baggage, he’s been running from his own demons. But even though he’s hardened at bit by his own pain, his softness comes to the surface to be the perfect friend, and ultimately lover, to our sweet Addie. And he’s a total dreamboat- thoughtful, protective, understanding, and gentle. He’s the perfect match for her- and turns out for him. Not only does he give her a safe place to be, but he’s also her emotional safety. He’s the first man in her life that hasn’t wanted to hurt or control her- he protects her, yes, but he also respects and empowers her. And together they are magical, both enabling the other to confront their pasts, to let go of their pain, so they can build a new future. Together. A new future as more wholly themselves.
And that’s what I love so much about Catherine. Not only do I love the edge of your seat suspense and swoony romance, but I love how she gives us characters who have faced adversity, who have parts of themselves that they need to confront and she helps them discover themselves, discover their strength and find hope and healing. So when they are facing grave danger, they are fighting to survive as the fullest versions of themselves, versions healing their brokenness, no longer drowning in it. And what a beautiful, beautiful thing.
I simply adore this series- it has everything I want in my romance. The perfect, meaningful, and dreamy escape. I can not wait for more- I know Shiloh is going to own my heart.
December 13, 2022
Hidden Waters is the third installment in the "Tattered & Torn" series. This is the one installment that I was the most excited for except for the finale book in the series, as it's one of the most well-loved installments in the series. And it's definitely worthy of the love, in fact, all of the books in the series have been so wonderful. I just adored Hidden Waters so much and all the emotion that gets built. I really enjoyed seeing the way that the author developed this story. There was so much attention to detail and the emotion that is displayed on healing and recovery and a young woman learning to stand on her own and choose her own life and have such a fierce determination to fight her battles. I was instantly captivated by both characters and the bond that they instantly connect with and how they each just seem to fit just right for each other. I was curious to see how the author would handle the suspense aspects of the story, and they were just right. In many romantic suspense, the suspense plot elements can overtake the story, however, the way that Catherine Cowles balances out the story so well, is so flawlessly blended into the romance.
I found it so wonderful to see how these all came together and the manner in which the author combined the factors for the family connection, healing from abuse from her family, and the romance that just built up so perfectly.
I found it so wonderful to see how these all came together and the manner in which the author combined the factors for the family connection, healing from abuse from her family, and the romance that just built up so perfectly.
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