Question A

[Jonetta]

The story begins with Sam’s early life in Fort Worth, Texas. We learn a lot about his family, the people who were instrumental in shaping his moral compass and values. What was the biggest revelation? Did it alter your view of the man in any way?

[Sharon]

I fell in love with Sam after this reveal. He had a tough life and became a kicka$$ SEAL instead of a criminal.

The biggest revelation was that Sam had an inner strength from the start. He saved the boy he was fighting, held his emotions while applying the tourniquet, then lost his lunch when the paramedics arrived.

A close second is that Noah knew Sam often had an empty lunchbox. It broke my heart that Sam was responsible for his mother instead of the other way around.

[Jonetta]

I was crazy about Sam before this book but now I have so much admiration for this character. Because he chose to help out the underdog (Einstein/Noah), he received a bigger gift in Walter Gaines and his lasting friendship with Noah. He was being abused and often on his own but found a place of refuge with this family.

Isn’t it ironic that Alyssa’s first impression of him was he was some kind of Southern bigot. If only she’d known the real man or not given into her own stereotypes.

[Sharon]

Nicely put, Jonetta! You never know the ramifications of your actions. Sam wasn't expecting anything but a punishment for helping Noah. He ended up not getting punished but receiving a family and friends a beautiful reward for life.

[Jonetta]

Thank you, Sharon. It was a lovely aspect of this story.

[Robin]

I agree with both of you. I loved the character of Sam since he was introduced into the series. Now that we've had insight into his past and what makes him tick, it just makes me love him more.

[Lauren]

Sam's backstory only made me admire him even more. He had a good heart from the get go.

@Jonetta - I also found Alyssa's initial impression of Sam as a bigot ironic given Sam's history. It just goes to show that appearance can be deceiving and one should not prejudge.

[Anita]

The biggest revelation for me was the horrid homelife Sam had a a kid. I showed me what an awesome man he became and only reinforced my love for him as a character.