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Road Trip Romance #13
Lock and Key
Family is everything.
Dakota Blake should know, considering she doesn’t have any. That’s why it was so important to find one to call her own. But Dakota never expected the life she was intent on building would lead to such heartache.
Jack Spears knows all about loss. Having suffered through it, he can recognize the signs of it. The walls. The icy personality. The bitterness.
When Jack meets Dakota, he’s immediately drawn to her. Maybe it’s because she’s gorgeous; maybe it’s curiosity. Or, it might be the fact that he knows she’s suffering and can’t turn his back on her.
By herself in a cabin in the Teton Mountains of Wyoming, Dakota finds herself ill-prepared for the harsh winter following her bitter divorce.
That’s when Jack steps in, gives her what she’s needed, and makes it impossible to keep her heart where she thinks it’s safest, under lock and key.
Dakota Blake should know, considering she doesn’t have any. That’s why it was so important to find one to call her own. But Dakota never expected the life she was intent on building would lead to such heartache.
Jack Spears knows all about loss. Having suffered through it, he can recognize the signs of it. The walls. The icy personality. The bitterness.
When Jack meets Dakota, he’s immediately drawn to her. Maybe it’s because she’s gorgeous; maybe it’s curiosity. Or, it might be the fact that he knows she’s suffering and can’t turn his back on her.
By herself in a cabin in the Teton Mountains of Wyoming, Dakota finds herself ill-prepared for the harsh winter following her bitter divorce.
That’s when Jack steps in, gives her what she’s needed, and makes it impossible to keep her heart where she thinks it’s safest, under lock and key.
- GenresRomance
Unknown Binding
Published February 7, 2023
28 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
A.K. Evans
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A.K. Evans is a contemporary romance author of over twenty published novels. While she enjoys writing a good romantic suspense novel, Andrea’s favorite books to write have been her extreme sports romances. That might have something to do with the fact that she, along with her husband and two sons, can’t get enough of extreme sports.
Before becoming a writer, Andrea did a brief stint in the insurance and financial services industry and managed her husband’s performance automotive business. That love of extreme sports? She used to drive race cars!
When Andrea isn’t writing, she can be found homeschooling her two sons, doing yoga, snowboarding, reading, or traveling with her family. She and her husband are currently taking road trips throughout the country to visit all 50 states with their boys.
http://eepurl.com/dmeo6z
Amazon:
http://amzn.to/2v8sjUH
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/authorAKEvans/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/authorakevans/
A.K.'s Book Babes (FB Reader Group):
http://bit.ly/2ys50mU
BookBub:
http://bit.ly/2r3fJm8
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/AuthorAKEvans
A.K. Evans is a contemporary romance author of over twenty published novels. While she enjoys writing a good romantic suspense novel, Andrea’s favorite books to write have been her extreme sports romances. That might have something to do with the fact that she, along with her husband and two sons, can’t get enough of extreme sports.
Before becoming a writer, Andrea did a brief stint in the insurance and financial services industry and managed her husband’s performance automotive business. That love of extreme sports? She used to drive race cars!
When Andrea isn’t writing, she can be found homeschooling her two sons, doing yoga, snowboarding, reading, or traveling with her family. She and her husband are currently taking road trips throughout the country to visit all 50 states with their boys.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 10, 2023
Have tissues handy, and be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster and more. This Road Trip takes us to Wyoming. Dakota has been chasing happiness since losing her grandma, who raised her. Due to a wrong choice, she finds herself in a cabin in Wyoming, looking for a fresh start.
Jack is Dakota’s new neighbor; he, too, is hiding and healing. Can they mend each other’s hearts?
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Jack is Dakota’s new neighbor; he, too, is hiding and healing. Can they mend each other’s hearts?
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
January 22, 2023
Be prepared to have your heart twisted a bit with these two. Dakota is incredibly strong, but healing. She’s been dead last for far too long in her life and the final straw is knowing that the one person who should put her first never will. So she moves on to find herself without any hindrance or possible heartache to get in her way. And good for her, too, because she deserves happiness in any form she finds it. And maybe that form is Jack. Because Jack sure seems to be the right kind of man for Dakota, but he also appears to have activities that would keep them from ever being together. Or so she thinks.
When Jack continues to be there time and time again when Dakota needs someone, she finds herself falling. But is there truly a future for them, or is she setting herself up for misery?
I adored how both Jack and Dakota own up to their emotions. They don’t hold grudges. They don’t let things fester. Instead, they communicate. And even when one of the worst fears from Dakota’a past collides with their present in an awful way, Jack proves just what kind of man he is by having Dakota’s back and standing by her side while she pushes back. These two are spectacular together and deliver all the emotions to bring us toward their happy forever. I’m just sad that I’ve finished this book because now I have to on wait to see where this author takes us next!
When Jack continues to be there time and time again when Dakota needs someone, she finds herself falling. But is there truly a future for them, or is she setting herself up for misery?
I adored how both Jack and Dakota own up to their emotions. They don’t hold grudges. They don’t let things fester. Instead, they communicate. And even when one of the worst fears from Dakota’a past collides with their present in an awful way, Jack proves just what kind of man he is by having Dakota’s back and standing by her side while she pushes back. These two are spectacular together and deliver all the emotions to bring us toward their happy forever. I’m just sad that I’ve finished this book because now I have to on wait to see where this author takes us next!
February 7, 2023
I have really come to love this series and the concept behind them. The fact that they are standalones makes it better but I really loved Lock and Key. I think it is the fact that both Dakota and Jack have such a heartbreaking history and they are learning to trust again when they find each other. Seeing both of them open up but especially Dakota after everything she has endured was beautiful to read. I love the build of this story and how it culminates. Evans has such a beautiful way of writing that I cannot get enough. This story was devoured in one sitting!
February 6, 2023
卂᥅ᥴ 尺ꫀꪜﺃꫀ᭙
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - Jack
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - Dakota
5 ℒℴ𝒸𝓀 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝐿𝑜𝑐𝑘 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐾𝑒𝑦 𝐵𝑦 𝐴.𝑘 𝐸𝑣𝑎𝑛𝑠
Dakota, gave four years to a man who never appreciated her. She decides to make the most painful decision and that's divorcing her husband for her own happiness. She finds herself in a cabin in Cottonwood, healing from everything she has been through, and not knowing if she will ever find happiness again. That all changes when she comes face to face with her neighbour Jack.
Jack, he left his life in New York after going through something heartbreaking, he returns to his hometown in Wyoming and has lived in his cabin for three years, only having his family for visitors...but when he sees his neighbour, everything changes and he starts feeling things he didn't think was possible again.
Dakota and Jack have both been through a lot, but these two start finding happiness with each other, Jack is patient and understanding of the things she went through and Dakota didn't realise that a man like Jack existed and she starts letting herself love once again.
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Jack's family and the Waverly (h best friend) where amazing ♥️
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 🍪🥧🍪🥧🍪
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️🥵
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧💧💧
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - Jack
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - Dakota
5 ℒℴ𝒸𝓀 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝐿𝑜𝑐𝑘 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐾𝑒𝑦 𝐵𝑦 𝐴.𝑘 𝐸𝑣𝑎𝑛𝑠
Dakota, gave four years to a man who never appreciated her. She decides to make the most painful decision and that's divorcing her husband for her own happiness. She finds herself in a cabin in Cottonwood, healing from everything she has been through, and not knowing if she will ever find happiness again. That all changes when she comes face to face with her neighbour Jack.
Jack, he left his life in New York after going through something heartbreaking, he returns to his hometown in Wyoming and has lived in his cabin for three years, only having his family for visitors...but when he sees his neighbour, everything changes and he starts feeling things he didn't think was possible again.
Dakota and Jack have both been through a lot, but these two start finding happiness with each other, Jack is patient and understanding of the things she went through and Dakota didn't realise that a man like Jack existed and she starts letting herself love once again.
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Jack's family and the Waverly (h best friend) where amazing ♥️
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 🍪🥧🍪🥧🍪
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️🥵
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧💧💧
January 23, 2023
Get your tissues ready for Lock and Key. Dakota and Jack both have scars from past relationships. She’s keeping her heart under lock and key, but after spending time with Jack, she finds out that she can give him the key to her heart. This book takes heartbreaking experiences to healing HEA. I received an ARC of Lock and Key. I voluntarily read and reviewed it. All opinions are my own.
January 31, 2023
Lock and Key by A.K. Evans is Book 13 in the Road Trip Romance Series that features a different couple in each state. This installment is an emotional story about finding your way to happiness after a loss, no matter what type of loss that is or how long you have been struggling in the darkness. Dakota was raised by her grandmother after being abandoned by her parents. Upon her grandma’s death, she thought marriage was the way to fulfill her dream of having a family of her own. Unfortunately she chose Tom, a first rate jerk, who viewed her as a servant and whose family would never accept her. When she finally decides to leave, she seeks the solitude of a cabin in the mountains of Wyoming. Her only neighbor is Jack, who unbeknownst to her, is also trying to heal from past hurts by hiding out in the woods. Can two people desperate for a fresh start finally find a new path to something real with each other?
Despite the unimaginable loss Jack suffered 3 years before he is one of the most compassionate and endearing characters I’ve encountered in a long time, if ever! I kept catching myself wondering where I could find a Jack for myself! He had endless patience, grace, and tenderness where it was warranted, without sacrificing his strength and fortitude as a protector. Although Dakota struggled with her fears and insecurities, and sometimes let them get in the way and made dumb decisions or judgments, she would own up to her mistakes and would apologize, as would Jack. I loved the fact that these characters actually communicated, rather than let things fester into bigger problems like in many books! Their connection was a joy to watch blossom, and they had the passion to go with it! From the authentic emotion, to the banter with his family, the romance and the plot twist, I was completely enthralled by this book! This was the first book of this Road Trip series I’ve read, but now I’m looking forward to going back to seeing if the others are as engaging as this one! Jack and Dakota will be sticking with me for awhile.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Despite the unimaginable loss Jack suffered 3 years before he is one of the most compassionate and endearing characters I’ve encountered in a long time, if ever! I kept catching myself wondering where I could find a Jack for myself! He had endless patience, grace, and tenderness where it was warranted, without sacrificing his strength and fortitude as a protector. Although Dakota struggled with her fears and insecurities, and sometimes let them get in the way and made dumb decisions or judgments, she would own up to her mistakes and would apologize, as would Jack. I loved the fact that these characters actually communicated, rather than let things fester into bigger problems like in many books! Their connection was a joy to watch blossom, and they had the passion to go with it! From the authentic emotion, to the banter with his family, the romance and the plot twist, I was completely enthralled by this book! This was the first book of this Road Trip series I’ve read, but now I’m looking forward to going back to seeing if the others are as engaging as this one! Jack and Dakota will be sticking with me for awhile.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 25, 2023
Another great Road Trip Romance book by A.K. Evans.
Wanting a family and to be loved and cared about has been something that Dakota Blake has wanted al her life, and she thought that she might have found it with her husband when they married, but she was so, so wrong. He was a man that wanted someone to take care of him since he no longer lived with his parents and his mother wasn't there to do it. His family never liked her and never hid it from her, the trouble was that her husband never backed her up or showed her the respect she so deserved. So she was done. Moving to a remote cabin in the woods from the advice of her best friend she believed that maybe she could find herself and gain the mind set to live her life on her own.
Jack Spears is hiding away from life and reality in the woods. His life hasn't turned out the way he had hoped, but he's content where he is and lives his life on his own in the woods. When the cabin next door becomes occupied, he knows he should go over and introduce himself, but he's not sure he's ready to. When he finds the new neighbor in trouble in the woods, he knows it's now or never.
This is tear jerker for sure, but it's also a beautiful story of two people that are trying to find love and find it in the most unexpected place. Dakota and Jack are great characters that need to see that life may have knocked them down but with each other, they can get back up and thrive. I loved the story and the characters.
Wanting a family and to be loved and cared about has been something that Dakota Blake has wanted al her life, and she thought that she might have found it with her husband when they married, but she was so, so wrong. He was a man that wanted someone to take care of him since he no longer lived with his parents and his mother wasn't there to do it. His family never liked her and never hid it from her, the trouble was that her husband never backed her up or showed her the respect she so deserved. So she was done. Moving to a remote cabin in the woods from the advice of her best friend she believed that maybe she could find herself and gain the mind set to live her life on her own.
Jack Spears is hiding away from life and reality in the woods. His life hasn't turned out the way he had hoped, but he's content where he is and lives his life on his own in the woods. When the cabin next door becomes occupied, he knows he should go over and introduce himself, but he's not sure he's ready to. When he finds the new neighbor in trouble in the woods, he knows it's now or never.
This is tear jerker for sure, but it's also a beautiful story of two people that are trying to find love and find it in the most unexpected place. Dakota and Jack are great characters that need to see that life may have knocked them down but with each other, they can get back up and thrive. I loved the story and the characters.
February 7, 2023
Okay Jack and Dakota! Can you get any cuter? These two are absolutely perfect together and this is hands down my favorite book in the Road Trip Romance Series.
Dakota is constantly being let down by the people she loves and who should love her. After realizing her husband will never put her first, she takes the advice of her best friend and files for divorce. In order to fully heal and have time to find herself she moves to a cabin where there is only one other close cabin near her.
Three years ago Jack suffered a terrible tragedy. Needing to be near family and take the time to heal he leaves the big city to move back to his hometown. He has been mostly alone until a new woman moves into the cabin near his.
When a few situations put Jack and Dakota together they both feel a strong connection. Unfortunately Dakota is very skittish and shy about jumping into a relationship. Lucky for her Jack is patient and willing to wait for her to come around. I absolutely loved this story and both characters. They both made mistakes but I loved the maturity of them both and their willingness to apologize and work through things. They have a few bumps along the way but luckily they can’t deny their chemistry for long. Although the situations they both needed to heal from were completely different it was a beautiful story of how love can truly heal.
Dakota is constantly being let down by the people she loves and who should love her. After realizing her husband will never put her first, she takes the advice of her best friend and files for divorce. In order to fully heal and have time to find herself she moves to a cabin where there is only one other close cabin near her.
Three years ago Jack suffered a terrible tragedy. Needing to be near family and take the time to heal he leaves the big city to move back to his hometown. He has been mostly alone until a new woman moves into the cabin near his.
When a few situations put Jack and Dakota together they both feel a strong connection. Unfortunately Dakota is very skittish and shy about jumping into a relationship. Lucky for her Jack is patient and willing to wait for her to come around. I absolutely loved this story and both characters. They both made mistakes but I loved the maturity of them both and their willingness to apologize and work through things. They have a few bumps along the way but luckily they can’t deny their chemistry for long. Although the situations they both needed to heal from were completely different it was a beautiful story of how love can truly heal.
February 7, 2023
4.5 Stars-Sweet Romance
In Lock & Key, A.K. Evans gives readers a sweet romance between two broken hearts looking to heal. I absolutely loved Dakota and Jack’s story.
After tragedies in their pasts, Dakota and Jack find themselves out in the woods of Wyoming in side by side cabins. Jack has been alone healing for three years and for Dakota, the healing has only just begun. As new neighbors, they slowly become friends and all you can hope for is they parlay it into something more.
The pace is slow, yet fast if that makes any sense. There really aren’t many close supporting characters to wrench this cute couple, however there’s always that dreaded past threatening to surface. Jack and Dakota were both written beautifully. Strong, yet vulnerable. Both looking for the same thing, if only they can find it in each other.
The book is well written and honestly, checks all of the boxes for me. There’s humor, sexy and of course some angst. If I had one complaint, it was all of the drama that felt quickly thrown in at the end. Seemed unnecessary and cheapend the story a smidge for me. That said, Lock & Key is a great addition to A.K. Evans unique Road Trip Romance series.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog
In Lock & Key, A.K. Evans gives readers a sweet romance between two broken hearts looking to heal. I absolutely loved Dakota and Jack’s story.
After tragedies in their pasts, Dakota and Jack find themselves out in the woods of Wyoming in side by side cabins. Jack has been alone healing for three years and for Dakota, the healing has only just begun. As new neighbors, they slowly become friends and all you can hope for is they parlay it into something more.
The pace is slow, yet fast if that makes any sense. There really aren’t many close supporting characters to wrench this cute couple, however there’s always that dreaded past threatening to surface. Jack and Dakota were both written beautifully. Strong, yet vulnerable. Both looking for the same thing, if only they can find it in each other.
The book is well written and honestly, checks all of the boxes for me. There’s humor, sexy and of course some angst. If I had one complaint, it was all of the drama that felt quickly thrown in at the end. Seemed unnecessary and cheapend the story a smidge for me. That said, Lock & Key is a great addition to A.K. Evans unique Road Trip Romance series.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog
February 6, 2023
This is the thirteenth book in the series. They are complete standalone books. I have only read one other book in the series. Dakota is starting a new chapter in her life. She has always wanted a family. She thought she found one but it turned out to be a mistake. She is at peace with the fact that that just isn’t in the cards for her. Jack is her neighbor. There is just something about Dakota that calls to him. He has been where she is and wants to help. He also wants to be hers on the other side. She is a tough nut to crack though. She always seems to only want to spend just a few minutes with him and then runs home. He just needs to be patient with her and there for her. Dakota doesn’t want to feel what she is feeling for Jack. But he is everything her ex wasn’t. What she has always wanted in a man. Can she open herself up again and risk getting her again. The more she interacts with Jack the more time she wants to spend with him. This was a great slow burn second chance romance. I am loving this series. I can’t wait to read the next book. A.K. Evans is a wonderful author and I love her books.
February 12, 2023
Another great addition to Ms. Evans' Road Trip romance series. Here we find two people trying to come to grips with what their lives have put them through. Dakota and Jack are hurt and trying to start over again by deciding to get away from everything and have a fresh start. Dakota is starting to live for herself, not her ex-husband or her father. Newly divorced and moving to a different area has her still wanting a family but will it ever happen? Her neighbour is a sexy man that seems to be too nice. There has to be something that is wrong with him. Jack, hiding from the hell that life put him through, notices his new neighbour and is taken aback by the beauty. Will she be the one to help him heal? Friendship blossoms and they both realize that they may actually have a second chance at love and happiness. Could this be a match made in heaven?
Ms. Evans always delivers a captivating storyline that leaves you emotional but also smiling with her HEA stories. This one will have you possibly needing tissues while you read it. I definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR list.
Ms. Evans always delivers a captivating storyline that leaves you emotional but also smiling with her HEA stories. This one will have you possibly needing tissues while you read it. I definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR list.
March 12, 2023
Lock and key (Road trip 13)
This is the thirtieth book in this series, and they keep improving. This is the story of Dakota and Jack, these two characters have such heartbreaking pasts to overcome, and they both need to learn to trust again. You will need the tissues at the ready for this story. This is a heartbreaking but wonderfully romantic story around these two unforgettable characters. Once you start this book, there is no putting it down till you get to the last page. You will devour this book in one sitting. It's so addictive and gripping. This is an incredible addition to this series by this author.
I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Release date - 07 Feb 2023
www.obsessedbookreviews.com
February 7, 2023
Poor Dakota, she's been through the fire but never stopped fighting, and finally got herself out of the bad situation she was in. This woman totally deserves all the happiness in the world, but it's not going to be an easy journey because her trust was trampled completely. Jack has gone through his own share of hell leaving him with trust issues, and he never thought he would have a shot at love again but he never saw Dakota coming. She ends up as his neighbor, and all of a sudden, his heart starts beating again, and he becomes her biggest champion as they navigate their new reality. This man never gave up being there for her, and I couldn't have loved him any more if I tried. Both of them acted like adults so while it hit me square in the feels, I also respected them since they communicated like adults. I've been a HUGE fan of this author for a long time, so I believe everyone needs her talent & heart through her books in their lives! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
February 15, 2023
4 stars
I'm a big-time fan of A.K. Evans' Harper Security Ops series so I was excited about this series; a series built on the author's USA road trip.
Dakota and Jack have retreated to the mountains of Wyoming to heal their wounds. After a broken relationship Dakota doesn't trust men and barley trusts herself, at this point. She avoids her beefy next door neighbor as much as she can but he keeps showing up when she's most vulnerable and he's the exact opposite of her ex-husband. Kind, attentive, protective and sexy, Jack is the man of Dakota's dreams, if she can give him the chance to prove it.
Quick read with compelling characters. I completely understood the scars of Dakota's past relationship, although I didn't really connect with the personality of her character. Jack was a wonderful character and I loved his family. I did really miss the suspense of Evans' other series.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
I'm a big-time fan of A.K. Evans' Harper Security Ops series so I was excited about this series; a series built on the author's USA road trip.
Dakota and Jack have retreated to the mountains of Wyoming to heal their wounds. After a broken relationship Dakota doesn't trust men and barley trusts herself, at this point. She avoids her beefy next door neighbor as much as she can but he keeps showing up when she's most vulnerable and he's the exact opposite of her ex-husband. Kind, attentive, protective and sexy, Jack is the man of Dakota's dreams, if she can give him the chance to prove it.
Quick read with compelling characters. I completely understood the scars of Dakota's past relationship, although I didn't really connect with the personality of her character. Jack was a wonderful character and I loved his family. I did really miss the suspense of Evans' other series.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
February 7, 2023
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH ONE OF A VARIETY OF SOURCES. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!
The Road Trip series is always a bit of a "grab bag" read for me...I never know what to expect when I get into one! However, this has to be one of my favorites in the series, and it's all because of the character of Dakota! She reminds me so much of myself after the events that sent her to the cabin she's living in, and I love how the romance between her and Jack just kinda blossomed into being and how effortless everything seemed to be between them. I loved Jack as Dakota's Hero...he reminded me so much of my own spouse! I love finding books like this, where I can see myself so much in the written characters! Definitely worth the time spent reading!
The Road Trip series is always a bit of a "grab bag" read for me...I never know what to expect when I get into one! However, this has to be one of my favorites in the series, and it's all because of the character of Dakota! She reminds me so much of myself after the events that sent her to the cabin she's living in, and I love how the romance between her and Jack just kinda blossomed into being and how effortless everything seemed to be between them. I loved Jack as Dakota's Hero...he reminded me so much of my own spouse! I love finding books like this, where I can see myself so much in the written characters! Definitely worth the time spent reading!
February 8, 2023
AK Evans knocked another state off her road trip series. This time the book takes us to Wyoming where Dakota finds herself in a new place after leaving her marriage. She's a little jaded on love and ins't quite convinced that a good man is out there. Enter Jack, her new neighbor who checks off every box for a brooding mountain man description. Jack has some baggage of his own but in the eyes of Dakota he may just be too good to be true. As these two neighbors navigate through their feelings and some interesting wildlife encounters on the way, they find out that sometimes a second shot at love is the real thing. I really like these books as they take us on a journey through out the United States. Each book is unique and gives us a great story with great characters. I can't wait until the next book!
February 8, 2023
Jack and Dakota are SOOOO Adorable Together
A.K. Evans’s newest Road Trip Romance, “Lock and Key,” is truly some of her best work. Jack and Dakota are so genuine and relatable individually, and when they get together, it’s steamy and sweet all at the same time. There’s healing in this story, and Evans isn’t afraid to make them vulnerable (and to make irrational choices like any human would). I think I just realized at Book 13 that while Evans is taking us on a road trip with her, she’s also showing us an emotional journey for the couple. Jack is gorgeous, caring, and protective while Dakota is a little headstrong, but loving as well. She’s a bit hesitant in her love life, and that’s what makes them getting together pretty amazing. I had tears and giggles and all the good things here. One more thoroughly amazing tale from the extremely talented A.K. Evans. Giving all the stars here!
A.K. Evans’s newest Road Trip Romance, “Lock and Key,” is truly some of her best work. Jack and Dakota are so genuine and relatable individually, and when they get together, it’s steamy and sweet all at the same time. There’s healing in this story, and Evans isn’t afraid to make them vulnerable (and to make irrational choices like any human would). I think I just realized at Book 13 that while Evans is taking us on a road trip with her, she’s also showing us an emotional journey for the couple. Jack is gorgeous, caring, and protective while Dakota is a little headstrong, but loving as well. She’s a bit hesitant in her love life, and that’s what makes them getting together pretty amazing. I had tears and giggles and all the good things here. One more thoroughly amazing tale from the extremely talented A.K. Evans. Giving all the stars here!
February 13, 2023
I'm a big-time fan of A.K. Evans' Harper Security Ops series so I was excited about this series; a series built on the author's USA road trip.
Dakota and Jack have retreated to the mountains of Wyoming to heal their wounds. After a broken relationship Dakota doesn't trust men and barley trusts herself, at this point. She avoids her beefy next door neighbor as much as she can but he keeps showing up when she's most vulnerable and he's the exact opposite of her ex-husband. Kind, attentive, protective and sexy, Jack is the man of Dakota's dreams, if she can give him the chance to prove it.
Quick read with compelling characters. I completely understood the scars of Dakota's past relationship, although I didn't really connect with the personality of her character. Jack was a wonderful character and I loved his family. I did really missed the suspense of Evans' other series.
Dakota and Jack have retreated to the mountains of Wyoming to heal their wounds. After a broken relationship Dakota doesn't trust men and barley trusts herself, at this point. She avoids her beefy next door neighbor as much as she can but he keeps showing up when she's most vulnerable and he's the exact opposite of her ex-husband. Kind, attentive, protective and sexy, Jack is the man of Dakota's dreams, if she can give him the chance to prove it.
Quick read with compelling characters. I completely understood the scars of Dakota's past relationship, although I didn't really connect with the personality of her character. Jack was a wonderful character and I loved his family. I did really missed the suspense of Evans' other series.
February 6, 2023
This is the 13th book in this incredible series, and this is Jack and Dakota’s journey. Dakota has gone through a bitter divorce and seeks the solitude of a cabin in the mountains of Wyoming, where her neighbor is Jack, who is living as a recluse after heartbreak, and his only visitors are his family. Jack steps in to help Dakota who is ill equipped for the harsh environment, and slowly they break down the barriers around their hearts. This is a beautifully written story, which is an emotional roller coaster, with undeniable chemistry, family, friendships, communication, twists, romance, humor, witty banter, healing, and love, which leads to an entertaining addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
February 7, 2023
The one dream that Dakota has always had is to have a family and a home to call her own however she has come to the painful conclusion that the man she chose is not the man who can give it to her. She is looking for a fresh start however she isn’t prepared for her sexy neighbors or the feelings he is raising.
Jack is healing from a devastating situation of his own and where better than a secluded cabin. When he meets Dakota he feels a connection to her that he didn’t expect and now he needs to convince her to open her heart to love and the future they could have together.
The relationship between Dakota and Jack is so heartwarming. They have both been hurt by the challenges that life has given them and are exactly what the other needs to help them heal from the past.
Jack is healing from a devastating situation of his own and where better than a secluded cabin. When he meets Dakota he feels a connection to her that he didn’t expect and now he needs to convince her to open her heart to love and the future they could have together.
The relationship between Dakota and Jack is so heartwarming. They have both been hurt by the challenges that life has given them and are exactly what the other needs to help them heal from the past.
February 13, 2023
Oh my gosh Dakota and Jack have stolen my heart in this one!
Dakota, determined to make a change in her life upended it and moved away from everyone she knew and the life she had.
Jack, staying away from people and keeping his life as simple as he can suits him just fine.
Dakota and Jack find themselves neighbors and they find they are both attracted to one another but Dakota isn’t sure about trusting her heart to someone again especially so soon! Jack hasn’t allowed himself to have feelings for a woman in such a long time but there is just something about Dakota that warms his heart.
This book with have you feel laughter, anger, and hurt all in one but you don’t want to miss the rollercoaster ride they are on.
AK Evans did an incredible job!
Dakota, determined to make a change in her life upended it and moved away from everyone she knew and the life she had.
Jack, staying away from people and keeping his life as simple as he can suits him just fine.
Dakota and Jack find themselves neighbors and they find they are both attracted to one another but Dakota isn’t sure about trusting her heart to someone again especially so soon! Jack hasn’t allowed himself to have feelings for a woman in such a long time but there is just something about Dakota that warms his heart.
This book with have you feel laughter, anger, and hurt all in one but you don’t want to miss the rollercoaster ride they are on.
AK Evans did an incredible job!
January 25, 2023
The Road Trip series captured my attention from the beginning and when reading the books, I feel I am going on the road trip too. This time Ms. Evans takes us to Wyoming with Dakota. Dakota realizes she must get out of her marriage, and as someone who has gone to something similar, I was captivated by her story. Moving next door to Jack was as it was meant to be. Untrusting of Jack, it took Dakota a while to see that all men were not like her ex. Jack’s character was strong, yet wary to have another relationship. Dakota and Jack were two lost souls who found each other and love for their very own happily ever after.
February 8, 2023
I give up, I hereby declare that I will no longer state that this is my favorite story or couple but I fall in love with a part of each of them.
Dakota just trampled over my heart, her story felt like I was reading mine.. all she wanted was to be loved and have a family and instead was married to the biggest ahole in the world.
Jack's heart had been ripped from his chest due to a tragedy 3 years ago.
But these 2 broken people met and found a way to heal themselves and each other.. the only question left is where do I find my Jack?
Curl up on the couch and hide from the world for a little while and fall in love with these two, you won't regret it.
Dakota just trampled over my heart, her story felt like I was reading mine.. all she wanted was to be loved and have a family and instead was married to the biggest ahole in the world.
Jack's heart had been ripped from his chest due to a tragedy 3 years ago.
But these 2 broken people met and found a way to heal themselves and each other.. the only question left is where do I find my Jack?
Curl up on the couch and hide from the world for a little while and fall in love with these two, you won't regret it.
January 24, 2023
Lock and Key was suck a sweet story. After being in a no good marriage, Dakota filed for divorce and moved to a cabin in the middle of no where. Luckily, she has a hunky neighbor, Jack, who is more than willing to help her out when she needs it.
Jack and Dakota are such an adorable couple! She is heartbroken, skittish, and not sure what she is doing with herself. He is able to help her out when she needs it, and that slowly brings them together. This is a beautiful story of healing, and friendship turning into lovers. I couldn’t put it down. I will definitely reread in the future!
Jack and Dakota are such an adorable couple! She is heartbroken, skittish, and not sure what she is doing with herself. He is able to help her out when she needs it, and that slowly brings them together. This is a beautiful story of healing, and friendship turning into lovers. I couldn’t put it down. I will definitely reread in the future!
February 9, 2023
Holy angsty, rip my heart our and put me back together!
This book is VIBES! Watching some one realize their worth was truly something to behold. It's ok to not settle. It's ok to want to be your partners equal and to have them defend you. Then throw in the ruggedly handsome neighbor who is BATTLING his demons and coming to the realization that he deserves a second chance at love and happiness. I cant even put in to adequate words what this book made me feel! Kudos A.K. Evans on an another well written, completely absorbing romance!
This book is VIBES! Watching some one realize their worth was truly something to behold. It's ok to not settle. It's ok to want to be your partners equal and to have them defend you. Then throw in the ruggedly handsome neighbor who is BATTLING his demons and coming to the realization that he deserves a second chance at love and happiness. I cant even put in to adequate words what this book made me feel! Kudos A.K. Evans on an another well written, completely absorbing romance!
March 5, 2023
Wyoming bound!
Vulnerability, trusting your heart, and living not hiding. These are the beautiful themes A.K. Evans weaves into her stories with different perspectives within the details.
If you’re looking for a good story, it’s there (Dakota and Jack are great). If you’re looking for something that makes you think, it’s there, too. Wyoming’s Road Trip was beautiful, the secluded location, the harsh winter, the heartbreak, and the love.
Everything I’ve come to expect from A.K. Evans.
Vulnerability, trusting your heart, and living not hiding. These are the beautiful themes A.K. Evans weaves into her stories with different perspectives within the details.
If you’re looking for a good story, it’s there (Dakota and Jack are great). If you’re looking for something that makes you think, it’s there, too. Wyoming’s Road Trip was beautiful, the secluded location, the harsh winter, the heartbreak, and the love.
Everything I’ve come to expect from A.K. Evans.
January 28, 2023
A cute love story:
This sweet, low angst romance would be perfect for those looking for a light read without too many complications. Both Dakota and Jack were hiding out in the woods with broken hearts and it was lovely seeing them find healing and hope once again. They made a cute couple and they really deserved their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
This sweet, low angst romance would be perfect for those looking for a light read without too many complications. Both Dakota and Jack were hiding out in the woods with broken hearts and it was lovely seeing them find healing and hope once again. They made a cute couple and they really deserved their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 31, 2023
Lock and Key is a dazzling addition to the Road Trip series, as with previous books in the series, Dakota and Jack's emotional journey is another epic, beautifully written, yet deeply motivating story.
Two people hiding away from the world in cabins in the mountain come together against a backdrop of grief and the promise of new beginnings from a plate of apple cinnamon oatmeal cookies.
Highly Recommend this book and each on in this very unique series,
Two people hiding away from the world in cabins in the mountain come together against a backdrop of grief and the promise of new beginnings from a plate of apple cinnamon oatmeal cookies.
Highly Recommend this book and each on in this very unique series,
February 11, 2023
I loved this. Dakota and Jack’s story is almost an insta-attraction romance but also not. Dakota just left a broken marriage and she's trying to start over so she ended up next to Jack's cabin. Jack is always there when she needed help even before she knew she needs it. But Dakota is still healing so Jack has to be patient with her. I loved how natural their relationship is even though it is an insta-attraction they still take their time to get to know each other. I loved watching their lives morph into one and how easy it is.
January 21, 2023
This is a very sweet second chance romance. It gives you faith that if things don't work out the first time, you just may find it even better the second time. Ms. Evans excels at this type of story line. This book is so well written and Jack and Dakota are amazing together. Loved this book and will definitely add it to my reread list. Would love to say so much more but I don't do spoilers. :)
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