Hero of Mine

Reasonably low angst, with plenty of moments that ring true and authentic, this is a wonderful story

I read and adored the prequel, I Need a Hero, so I had some idea of the premise in this series, but each book brings in something new. In Hero of Mine, the story is centered on former wild child Danielle, and her son Noah. She’s not a particularly ‘open’ person, bruised from her former relationships and focusing on her son, she’s both highly guarded and overly self-critical. This makes her a bit of an insecure mess, especially where her parenting skills are considered. More than once I needed Danielle to go to a quiet corner and regroup, particularly early on, as there’s little thought happening before she has a knee jerk reaction.

The other half of the story is Tyler’s. He’s a bit of a playboy as he grasps every moment and opportunity. What saved him early on is the heart and compassion he shows, and the fact that he’s seen the darker side of things gives him a tiny pass. But, even more important than his experience and compassion is his dedication to The Men of Alpha Dog, working with at risk teens and his personal mission to work with at risk dogs.

Danielle and Tyler are electric – but while she’s all push away, he’s intrigued and can’t help but enjoy their fiery interactions. She’s obviously pricklier than a hedgehog, and the sort of girl that you commit to….perhaps he’s missing out on something? That’s what makes Tyler adorable… he’s got the attitude of a toddler in a toy store – never wanting to miss anything. But, he and Dani do have a connection, but since this is a first for them both…they are going slow. And when Noah’s father appears after his absence and is determined to throw a kink in their works, Tyler has to step up in more than one way.

The gradual development of the relationship between these two allows for them both to grow and develop as a couple and individuals. While Dani’s guarded nature and rather cynical approach to life pre-Tyler are believable, the true enjoyment was in her growth and the connection with Tyler that allowed them both to thrive and grow into better versions of themselves. Reasonably low angst, with plenty of moments that ring true and authentic, this is a wonderful story.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.