Release Day Blitz & Review : Hero by Lauren Rowe

HERO 

by Lauren Rowe 

Release Date:
March 12th, 2018 

Genres:
Contemporary Romance

Add to Goodreads

Release Day Blitz Hosted by:
Social Butterfly PR

Source:
Author via RDB Host

eARC received in exchange for an honest review

Synopsis: 

A standalone contemporary romance in the MORGAN BROTHERS SERIES from USA Today Bestselling Author Lauren Rowe. 

The story of firefighter Colby Morgan that proves heroes come in many forms . . 

The first time I laid eyes on Lydia Decker, I couldn’t speak. Or breathe. Or string two coherent thoughts together. 

And I don’t mean any of that figuratively. 

I’m not talking about a guy being floored by the sight of a gorgeous woman—although, of course, Lydia is gorgeous beyond words. 

No, when I first laid eyes on Lydia Decker—my physical therapist—I was lying flat on my back in the ICU, high as a kite on painkillers, breathing on a ventilator, my bones as broken and splintered as my spirit. 

When I first laid eyes on Lydia Decker, she was a ray of light in the dark. Hope for the hopeless. A salve for my singed and battered soul. 

She said she’d been assigned to fix me. That she was there to bring me back to life. She said helping me was her calling. 

And then she touched me. Physically, emotionally, spiritually. She healed me. 

And I fell in love. 

But what I didn’t know . . . what I couldn’t possibly know . . . was that Lydia Decker needed fixing far more than I ever did. 

Purchase Links:
Amazon US | Amazon CA | Amazon UK | Amazon AU

Review:

Hero is the first book I read from Lauren Rowe. This was a fabulous reading escape and I'm so glad I discovered this author. Her writing style is amazing and her characters simply irresistible! She wrote a poignant story for Lydia and Colby, which stole a piece of my heart.

Hero was a beautiful and romantic story between a single mom and a firefighter that completely burned all the walls that the heroine set around her heart. Lauren Rowe wrote an emotional, captivating and healing love story for Lydia and Colby. A story where two people with different life experiences come together as one. 

Lydia is a physical therapist that is assigned to help Colby back on his two feet after a tragic fire sends him in the ICU. From the moment they meet, there is a strong chemistry that neither of them can deny. Starting a relationship with Colby could not only put her job at risk, but also her heart. Her heart still beats to the rhythm of a love story that will forever be a part of her. Will she be ready to let go of the past and give love another chance? 

I really loved the connection between Lydia and Colby. It was passionate, intense and beautiful. My heart broke for both these characters. Their struggles were so real and I could totally feel their heartache and wanted to give them all a hug and whisper to them that everything would be alright. They made me think of my family and friends and how I was by their side when they went through the same situations. 

I loved how patient Colby was with Lydia and her heart. Their attractions might have been instant, but their love story was a slow romance that completely stole a piece of my heart. Lydia was a phenomenal heroine and I cheered for her to find a HEA.

The cast of supporting characters in this book was amazing! From the Morgans to Lydia's children, they all had an important role in this love journey that brought Lydia and Colby together. Colby sharing special moments with Lydia's children? Oh my world!!! *Swoon* I will without a doubt be reading the books that the author wrote for the other Morgan siblings. They were a fantastic family and I want to know more about them.

Rating:

I give, Hero, by Lauren Rowe, 4 emotional, heart-melting, romantic stars!

About Lauren Rowe 

USA Today and internationally bestselling author Lauren Rowe lives in San Diego, California, where, in addition to writing books, she performs with her dance/party band at events all over Southern California, writes songs, takes embarrassing snapshots of her ever- patient Boston terrier, Buster, spends time with her family, and narrates audiobooks. Much to Lauren’s thrill, her books have been translated all over the world in multiple languages and hit multiple domestic and international bestseller lists. To find out about Lauren’s upcoming releases and giveaways, sign up for Lauren’s emails at www.LaurenRoweBooks.com. Lauren loves to hear from readers! Send Lauren an email from her website, say hi on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook by searching for @laurenrowebooks. 

Facebook | Goodreads | Instagram | Twitter | Website   

Excerpt Reveal : Hero by Lauren Rowe

HERO 

by Lauren Rowe 

Release Date:
March 12th, 2018 

Genres:
Contemporary Romance

Add to Goodreads

Excerpt Reveal Hosted by:
Social Butterfly PR

Synopsis: 

A standalone contemporary romance in the MORGAN BROTHERS SERIES from USA Today Bestselling Author Lauren Rowe. 

The story of firefighter Colby Morgan that proves heroes come in many forms . . 

The first time I laid eyes on Lydia Decker, I couldn’t speak. Or breathe. Or string two coherent thoughts together. 

And I don’t mean any of that figuratively. 

I’m not talking about a guy being floored by the sight of a gorgeous woman—although, of course, Lydia is gorgeous beyond words. 

No, when I first laid eyes on Lydia Decker—my physical therapist—I was lying flat on my back in the ICU, high as a kite on painkillers, breathing on a ventilator, my bones as broken and splintered as my spirit. 

When I first laid eyes on Lydia Decker, she was a ray of light in the dark. Hope for the hopeless. A salve for my singed and battered soul. 

She said she’d been assigned to fix me. That she was there to bring me back to life. She said helping me was her calling. 

And then she touched me. Physically, emotionally, spiritually. She healed me. 

And I fell in love. 

But what I didn’t know . . . what I couldn’t possibly know . . . was that Lydia Decker needed fixing far more than I ever did. 

Pre-Order the Paperback on Amazon 

Excerpt:

“Okay, everyone. I’m sorry to shut this party down, but it’s closing time at the bar. Colby and I have some physical therapy to do.” 

Relief floods me. That’s exactly what I was wishing she’d do—clear them all out so we can be alone. 

Goodbyes are said. Hugs are administered. And, finally, blessedly, it’s just Lydia and me. “Alone at last, Mr. Morgan,” she says, taking the seat next to my bed. 

I slide my hand in hers. “Alone at last, Miss Decker. There is a God.” 

She smiles. “You might not say that after I get through with you. Some of what we’re going to do together is going to be extremely frustrating for you, I’m sure.” 

“Bring it, beautiful lady. As long as you’re the one administering the torture, I’ll enjoy every second of it.” She rolls her eyes. 

“Okay, Mr. Flirty Pants. Enough with that. Let’s get serious for a second. Okay?” 

I smile broadly. “What? I can’t say you’re beautiful? Because you are. You’re drop dead gorgeous, actually. I’ve never seen a more spectacularly gorgeous woman in my life.” 

She’s fighting not to smile too big and it’s adorable. “Thank you. Sweet of you to say. Incredibly ridiculous, but sweet. Unfortunately, though, we don’t have time to sit here and talk about my earth-shattering beauty all day. You’re not my only patient.” 

“I wish I were.” 

“So do I.” 

My heart lurches. 

She clears her throat. “I shouldn’t have said that. Forget I said that.” 

She blushes. “Momentary insanity brought on by your outrageous charm.” She takes a deep breath like she’s pressing some internal restart button. “Okay. In all seriousness. This is going to be a long, hard road for you, Colby. But I want you to know you’re not walking it alone. Inch by inch, step by step, I’ll be right here with you, okay? My job is helping you get back to being you as quickly as possible.” 

Electricity surges through my veins, and not because of her words. Because of the zap I feel through the touch of our palms. Her incredible energy is physically palpable. “Thank you,” I whisper, my eyes locked with hers, my fingers zipping and zapping with the influx of her energy into my body. “I wouldn’t want to be on this journey with anyone but you, Lydia. I don’t want anyone else.” 

About Lauren Rowe 

USA Today and internationally bestselling author Lauren Rowe lives in San Diego, California, where, in addition to writing books, she performs with her dance/party band at events all over Southern California, writes songs, takes embarrassing snapshots of her ever- patient Boston terrier, Buster, spends time with her family, and narrates audiobooks. Much to Lauren’s thrill, her books have been translated all over the world in multiple languages and hit multiple domestic and international bestseller lists. To find out about Lauren’s upcoming releases and giveaways, sign up for Lauren’s emails at www.LaurenRoweBooks.com. Lauren loves to hear from readers! Send Lauren an email from her website, say hi on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook by searching for @laurenrowebooks. 

Facebook | Goodreads | Instagram | Twitter | Website   

Book Review: Hero by Samantha Young

Hero

By:
Samantha Young

Release Date:
February 3rd, 2015

Publisher:
NAL

Source: 
Publisher via NetGalley

eARC received in exchange of honest review

Add to Goodreads

Synopsis:

The emotional and unforgettable new romance from the New York Times bestselling author of the On Dublin Street series. 

Alexa Holland’s father was her hero—until her shocking discovery that she and her mother weren’t his only family. Ever since, Alexa has worked to turn her life in a different direction and forge her own identity outside of his terrible secrets,. But when she meets a man who’s as damaged by her father’s mistakes as she is, Alexa must help him. 

Caine Carraway wants nothing to do with Alexa’s efforts at redemption, but it’s not so easy to push her away. Determined to make her hate him, he brings her to the edge of her patience and waits for her to walk away. But his actions only draw them together and, despite the odds, they begin an intense and explosive affair. 

Only Caine knows he can never be the white knight that Alexa has always longed for. And when they’re on the precipice of danger, he finds he’ll do anything to protect either one of them from being hurt again…

Purchase links for Hero:

Amazon |B&N|iTunes|Kobo

Lindy's Thoughts:

Hero by Samantha Young was a gripping romance that I did not want to put down! This story pulled me in, and swept me away!  I became engrossed in this seductive, sensual, and alluring storyline as my imagination took root!  Ms. Young seduces her readers by weaving her magic, and making them feel an array of emotions, as they become immersed in the story of Cain Carraway; who becomes the reader's hunky hero!

Alexa Holland is on her own.  She is estranged from her father, and her mother died recently.  She is a personal assistant to one on the most famous photographers in the world.  One day, when she returns to work after some time off, she is shocked to see Cain Carraway as the subject for the current photo shoot.  You see, her father is personally responsible for a tragedy that occurred in his life, and resulted in him being orphaned at a young age.  When she has an opportunity to talk to him, she tells him who she is and apologizes to him for her father's actions.  He is full of anger, and demands to have a different photographer.  Unfortunately, as a result, Alexa get's fired.

Cain Carraway is one of the youngest, wealthiest, and most powerful businessmen.  He has a great amount of respect and prestige in his field, but doesn't let himself get close or attached to anyone.  The only people that really know him are his best friend, Henry, and his neighbor, the kind and elderly, Effie.  When Alexa, shows up unannounced and uninvited to his office after he let her know that he never wanted to see her again, he is shocked and outraged!  

Alexa asks for his help to get her job back, and so that he can get rid of her he agrees.  Unfortunately, her boss refuses to hire her back.  Cain offers her a job as his P.A. with a great salary.  She accepts, because she wants to get to know Cain and make his life better.  She feels guilty for what happened to him, and wants to make amends.  However, it quickly becomes apparent that Cain wants to make Alexa's life difficult.  There is no denying the sexual chemistry and attraction between Cain and Alexa.  Pretty soon they embark on a hot and heavy affair.  Cain offers no-strings attached sex, but Alexa wants more.  As feelings complicate their situation, Cain tells Alexa that he's no hero.  She, however, begs to differ, and is determined to change his mind.  To complicate matters, Alexa's life is threatened.

Hero was spectacular!  I loved the complexity and authenticity of Cain and Alexa's characters.  These individuals came to life for me.  We are given a full picture of both of their lives, and I felt like I knew them both so well.  Cain was a stoic, aloof, and rude character at the beginning of the story. It was fun seeing how Alexa was able to win him over little by little by just being herself.  I loved Effie, Cain's elderly neighbor!  She was hilarious, nurturing, nosey, and a profound well of wisdom.  There was never a dull moment when Effie was on the page.  Alexa's character was witty, vivacious, fun, and a bit of a smart alec.  I loved her!!!  This cast of characters were phenomenal!

The plot was very fast-paced!  It was sexy, fun, chock full of drama at times, and suspenseful at the end!  The sex scenes were frantic, intense, passionate, and hot from the beginning to end of the story!    

My Rating:

I give, Hero, by Samantha Young, 4.5 Witty, Whirlwind of Rapture, Euphoric, and Sinfully Seductive Stars!  Romance Readers, it's one-click time!!!

Mikki's Review:

Are you ready for your next unputabledown read? Samantha Young’s latest novel, Hero, will captivate you from beginning to end! A reading journey filled with secrets, passion, romance and two unforgettable characters that will steal your heart. I have no clue why I waited so long to read a book by Samantha Young. I have heard amazing things about her writing and how her books make you live all kinds of emotions. Hero did not disappoint! 

You know that saying … There is a thin line between love and hate... Well, Alexa Hollands and Caine Carraway totally crossed that line. This enemies-to-lover office romance will make you cheer for this sexy and intriguing couple from beginning to end! Alexa meets Caine at a photo session. She gets in all kinds of trouble when she introduces herself. The moment she mentions her name to Caine, he sees black. What happens next leaves Alexa shocked and jobless. When the one and only Caine Carraway offers her a job as his PA she is surprised. This might be the perfect opportunity to get to know him better. Working with Caine is anything but easy. He's a real jerk and he's not giving her a chance to get close. Alexa is determined and she will do whatever it takes to break down the walls that Caine is so stubbornly putting up. What she did not expect was for this attraction that she feels for her boss to develop into something more. Will their relationship  grow into something more with all the lies and secrets that are surrounding them?

Hero was such an amazing reading escape! The chemistry between Alexa and Caine was absolutely electrifying! From the moment that their paths cross you can feel the tension between them. A tension that explodes in an all-consuming love affair that had my heart beating fast and left me fanning myself in more than one occasion. Alexa is exactly the kind of heroine I like to cheer for. She’s funny, patient, confident, and she knows exactly what she wants. Caine had a je-ne-sais-quoi about him that made my heart beat fast and gave me butterflies in my stomach. From the moment he meets Alexa he’s a complete jerk! I wanted to slap some sense into him a couple of times. If he was my boss I would have put salt in his coffee … lol!!! Gah!!!! I did not only read this book. I felt every single emotion and it left me with such a happy heart. Finally!!!! I well written standalone packed with angst, romance and a perfect balance of sweet, sexy and funny moments. 

As a reader I want to fall in love with the characters, feel their emotions and cheer for their HEA. It was so easy to fall in love with Alexa and Caine. Their all-consuming love story will leave you wanting more! I absolutely loved Caine’s neighbor, Effie, and his best friend, Henry. They are two very important persons in Caine's life and they became very good friends with Alexa. I loved all of the scenes that these two had with Alexa and Caine. I am so happy that I got the chance to read Hero. I am now looking forward to reading the other books that Samantha Young has written. I can see that I have a lot of catching up to do…lol!

My Rating:

I give, Hero, by Samantha Young 4.5 heartwarming, steamy, sensual, page-turning stars!

About the Author:

Samantha Young is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author from Stirlingshire, Scotland. She's been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award 2012 for Best Author and Best Romance for her international bestseller ON DUBLIN STREET and Best Romance 2014 for BEFORE JAMAICA LANE. ON DUBLIN STREET is Samantha's first adult contemporary romance series and has sold in twenty-eight countries.

Facebook|Goodreads|Twitter|Website