Rescue My Heart (An Animal Magnetism Novel Book 3)

I loved Animal Magnestism and Animal Attraction. Rescue My Heart did not let me down. Jill Shalvis' characters are funny, sexy and interesting. Adam and Holly's story was so fun to read. Can't wait for the next one!

Jill Shalvis is one of my favorite authors and never fails to create stories that make you laugh, cry and sigh all in one book. This is just another fantastic creation that has a tough, sexy hero, a strong heroine and some cute animals thrown into the mix. Adam has returned to Belle Haven after a tough stint in the National Guard and now suffers from PTSD. Holly is now divorced and has moved back home to help her father run his ranch. She has decided that she is tired of alpha males ruling her life, but when her father goes missing she has to depend on Adam to help search. Adam and Holly have bad history but when they work together on the search, bad feelings are put aside and new chemistry is started. Great read.

When I'm looking for a fun, light hearted romance that is full of humour Jill Shalvis is one of my go to authors because I know that's exactly what she'll deliver. Rescue My Heart is a perfect example of that and I enjoyed every minute of Adam and Holly's story. I'm a huge fan of the Lucky Harbor series but I think I might have to say I'm enjoying this one even more, I think it's the cute animals and their crazy antics that add that little extra something but that wouldn't work without the fantastic characters or super hot romance. Although each of the stories in this series work as a stand alone I'd recommend reading them in order because the characters do appear throughout the entire series.

If you've read the first two books you'll already know that Adam is the brother of the previous heroes Brady and Dell. You'll also know that since returning home from the war he has been suffering from PTSD and he has pretty much closed himself off from the world trying to lose himself in his work and avoid contact with people wherever possible. Adam owns the animal clinic alongside his brothers but he focuses on the Search and Rescue side of the business training S&R dogs and their handlers. He used to be active on S&R calls in the local area but ever since he returned home he suffered with panic attacks and had to take a more inactive role running the command centre. Adam and Holly were a couple when they were teenagers but Adam broke her heart when he left her behind to enlist in the army. When her father goes missing Adam is the last person she wants to ask for help but at the same time he is the only one she trusts to help her find him. Spending time together brings back all the old feelings that they used to have for each other and the chemistry between them is hotter than ever but can Adam get past his fear of relationships or will he break Holly's heart for a second time?

I absolutely loved seeing Adam and Holly spend time together, they are so hot for each other from the very first moment but there is a lot of history between them which makes it hard for Holly to trust him again. They're constantly verbally sparring and bantering with each other and although they've both changed a lot since they were dating they still have that connection that's only really there with someone you've known for a very long time. I loved that Adam doesn't judge Holly for the mistakes she's made and is proud of her for the way she has handled her problems and I loved that Holly sees Adam for the incredibly strong man that he is and refuses to let him walk away from her a second time. They both realise that they have changed in the years that they've been apart but they like what they see in each other now and they fit together even better than they did before.

Rescue My Heart has some truly funny moments, it will melt your heart, make you swoon and have you fanning yourself after the fantastic sex scenes! It was great to catch up with the previous couples and I laughed a lot at Adam's brothers and the way they were constantly trying to get the gossip about him and Holly. I also really enjoyed the glimpses we got to see of the couple from the next book, Rumour Has It. I have a feeling I'm going to love Holly's brother Griffin and her best friend Kate!

Rescue My Heart, book #3 in the Animal Magnetism series by Jill Shalvis, is my favorite book of the series so far! Adam & Holly are super delicious and I gobbled up every single morsel that Ms. Shalvis offered up.

I have been dying for Adam Connelly's story since first meeting him in Animal Magnetism. His character is dark, brooding, stoic and enigmatic. He cares about those that he loves with a fierce intensity but shows no emotions. He closes off his world from any real feelings refusing to live in the pain & guilt that they will cause. I wanted to crawl into the book and offer him comfort and solace; I wanted, and needed, him to find happiness and love.

Holly has been in love with Adam since she was a teenager. When he left her all those years ago, it was her undoing. When she moves back to Sunshine, she isn't surprised that her feelings for Adam remain, but she's scared and cautious. Holly was just exceptional and I loved her witty and exuberant personality. She loves Adam and she's not afraid to fight for him.

Holly is the perfect light to Adam's dark, and vice-versa. Adam exudes the badass alpha male persona that infuriates Holly, but makes her love him all the more. Holly doesn't handle Adam's fears with kid gloves. She supports and empathizes, but never pities or makes him feel less than what he is. She is the soothing balm that his extremely tortured soul needs and their story was absolutely beautiful to read.

This series is fast-becoming one of my favorite contemporary romance reads. Ms. Shalvis perfectly combines fun and light-heartedness with realistic, sometimes difficult, storylines that pack a definite punch straight to the readers heart. Rescue My Heart is an amazing story about second-chance love, self forgiveness and acceptance and one that should definitely make it onto your must buy list!

Title: Rescue My Heart

Series: Animal Magnetism bk 3

Author: Jill Shalvis

Genre: Contemporary

After a tragic stint in the National Guards, Adam Connelly returns to Idaho and to Belle Haven, the animal shelter he owns with his brothers. All Adam wants is to be alone. Then he opens the door to the past--the woman whose heart he once broke. Still gorgeous, still tough-as-nails, but this time, unusually vulnerable.

Holly learned the hard way to never depend on a man for anything. Now, of all men, it's the last one she wants to see, and the only one she needs. Her father has gone missing in the Bitterroot Mountains and she could use someone with tracking skills to help find him.

For Holly and Adam, each with their ghosts, a trek this desperate, this unpredictable, and this intimate, will have its share of risks--including opening their hearts one more time.

Jill Shalvis is an author who knows how to crafty a deliciously tortured hero, and do it so well we want to take the hero home and wrap him up in our arms.

This is one of those books that I had to read in one sitting. This didn't actually happen as I feel asleep reading, but I woke up bright and early at 5am to finish reading.

Adam and Holly's story is one of my favorite romance tropes. That of teenage loves parting, and getting their second chance.

Both of them have baggage. Adam's is from his childhood and subsequent tours in a war zone. Holly's is from watching her parents non-marriage and also how she reacted to her break up with Adam when she was eighteen.

It took me a bit to warm up to Holly but once I did I was cheering for her all the way to break through the wall that Adam had erected around himself. Adam however I have been half way in love with from the other books and I couldn't wait to find out what demons he was chasing.

I could go on and on about this book and how much I enjoyed it, but instead I'm going to tell you to get this book, and the other books in this series because they are all really good.

Grade A
Review by: Heather
[...]

Read from April 27 to 28, 2013

Read/Listened for Fun/Dewey's Read-a-Thon (Paperback/Audio borrowed from a friend)
Overall Rating: 4.25
Story Rating: 4.25
Character Rating: 4.25

Audio Rating: 4.50 (not part of the overall rating)

First Thought when Finished: Super enjoyable read that touched my animal loving heart!

Story Thoughts: I dare you not to fall in love with this story if you are an a) animal lover or b)love military men. Rescue My Heart just had all those elements that make you swoon and root for a happy ending. I have loved every book in this series and this one certainly did measure up!

Character Thoughts: Adam is one of those leading men that you just want to bear hug one minute and then tackle kiss the next. He is a retired soldier with PTSD who works with rescue animals. Plus, his chemistry with Holly is off the charts. They just work together. Even though he broke her heart, I think they are better as a couple now then they would have been when younger. I pretty much just adored them.

Audio Thoughts:

Narrated By Karen White / Length: 9 hrs and 16 mins

Karen does a fantastic job with the Animal Magnetism series. Even though I initially read the book, I had to go back and listen to it on audio. The pacing, emotion, and styling by Karen is just perfectly suited for Jill Shavis' writing.

Final Thoughts: I have really loved every single book in this series! Highly Recommend!

I have read plenty of Ms. Shalvis' books and this one, by far, offered the most depth of character feeling. Even the ending offered a far better "feel good" feeling to it.

Adam Connelly, probably the most stoic and troubled of the three brothers in the Animal Magnetism series, really shines as a hero worthy of reading again. Don't get me wrong, I liked the stories of Brady and Dell, but I saw Adam as a deeper character to get to know. His stint in the National Guard was the culprit in how Adam kept a distance from love. Suffering PTSD and anxiety is a serious situation to overcome. I, too, understand what anxiety/panic disorder entails and the method of controlling it is so true. It is truly a mind over matter thing that is difficult to control when the symptoms surface (the hyperventilation, the crushing pain the the chest, the feeling of losing control... the crippling fear that can feel like death is knocking on your door). Understanding it is one thing, going through it is another and Ms. Shalvis did a great job at expressing how crippling it can be.

The connection between Adam and Holly was the truest form of love that never died. The deep level of concern for another is a true catalyst for love. The way this story was told, I felt that there was really no need to overwhelm the reader with additional information, and Ms. Shalvis understood that. Of course, there is initial lust, young love, unfinished business, and all of that that propels this story. There was even some humor mixed in. Between the interaction Adam had with Dell, Brady, Lilah and Jade... as well as his connection with Milo and the other animals... We got to see a side of Adam that, as complex as he tends to be, is quite simple to understand. Holly loved Adam even after he broke her heart, but their past made an even stronger future for them. She did not coddle Adam... she went toe-to-toe with him and I loved that. She was the right level of strong woman for this hero of a man.

I am looking forward to Ms. Shalvis' future installment to this series. I am not sure how Holly's brother will fit in the series, but I have no doubt that she can pull it off. I highly recommend this series to anyone that loves a quirky, sizzling contemporary romance that also offers the adorable, and also quirky animals. Definitely a warm and fuzzy quick read series.

This review was first posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club!

Jill Shalvis is my go to author for funny romances with heroines who do silly little things that should require face palms. I've yet to read a Shalvis book I didn't love, and Rescue My Heart is no exception. Great story. We have Adam who suffers from PTSD from a rescue gone wrong overseas while he was in the military. We have Holly, who had her teenage heart broken by Adam when he says he's leaving for the military and she shouldn't bother waiting for him at home, because he's never coming back for her. So she did what any mixed up hormonal nineteen year old would do, she ran off to someplace far away looking for someone to fill that hole. Too bad the man who filled that hole, a Professor she was a Teacher's Aide for, ended up being a dill-wad of the highest order who liked sleeping with all of his available TA's. But instead of divorcing cheating dill-wad husband, she just decided to go home to Idaho and pretend everything was honkey dory. She couldn't possibly let her father, or her pain in the ass brother Griffin, know that she had a failure of a marriage. What she didn't count on? Adam Connelly being back home in Idaho after his military service is over. Now doesn't that just suck?

Adam's got more on his emotional plate than the PTSD. He's got mixed up emotions about his native american mother who gave him and his brother away to a foster system because she couldn't deal. He's got a guilt streak a mile wide for a tragic accident that killed a police officer that was caused by drag racing from him and his buddies. And he also can't face the fact that Holly was the only girl he thought of through all those long, cold nights during his deployments, but he just never felt that he was good enough for her. Adam's got all of these things that keep him from connecting, and really living, his life. After Holly comes to him for help finding her Dad in the woods surrounding their hometown, they find themselves on less shaky ground after having cleared some of the air between them. But can Adam let himself love, and be loved by Holly? Or will he throw the best thing for him away by being a typical mule headed man?

While this isn't my favorite Animal Magnetism Series book (that honor distinctly goes to Brady's book - because YUM - he's Brady), it was still a totally typical rockin'-off-the-charts Jill Shalvis winner. This is a must read ladies! Five wine glass toast all the way! And not only do I say you will enjoy it, but by the end you will be totally hankering for the next book which will be Griffin's book. (Because - Double YUM - growly Griffin!) [...]

*Some minor spoilers*

Holly's father has gone missing in the mountains. Worried and concerned, she asks Adam Connelly, a lover from her past, to help her find him since he is the best rescue tracker in the area. Adam agrees to help Holly but asks her to stay behind. But to Adam's dismay, Holly is stubborn and refuses to let Adam go without her. Adam broke Holly's heart once and by pure will only, she refuses to let him back in. And Adam doesn't want to let Holly back in, for fear of hurting her all over again. Even though there are many years of hurt and pain between them, working closely together makes them realize the feelings and passion they once shared as teens never truly went away.

Adam is an ex-soldier with PTSD. As a teenager, he was reckless and wild. When he got into some trouble, he signed up for the military and left Holly behind. The one and only woman he's ever loved. Now that Holly has walked back into his life asking for help, he's desperate to keep his distance from her for fear that he will not only break her heart again but fears he's not good enough for her.

Holly is recently divorced and has moved back home to help her father out on the ranch. After marrying too young and for all the wrong reasons, she's ready to move on with her life. Holly never got over Adam since he's the one who left her behind. She's hurt and angry. Angry because Adam never called or write. And when he came back into town, he never bothered to get in touch with him. I love Holly's spunk. She was determined to help Adam find her father and to Adam's dismay, refused to give up until he took her with him.

While searching the mountains of Idaho, these two do their best to avoid the obvious chemistry that is boiling between them. The back and forth bantering and battle of the wills is hilarious. But these two aren't as strong as they like to think. They do eventually give into their attraction but, after one night of passion, Adam is still trying to push Holly away. Again. But Holly is not taking no for an answer this time. Stubborn might as well be her middle name.

I love second chance love stories. And, boy, does Holly and Adam have some history and baggage to work out! Despite the fact that at times I wanted to smack each of them in the back of the head for being so stubborn, this couple was fun to read. I really enjoyed their playful banter and the sizzling sexy times.

Enjoyment - 4.00
Characters - 4.50
Story(s) - 3.00
Technical - 4.50
Overall - 4.00

Slow start, extremely slow end. Huh. There's something I don't have a problem with often. But the chapters in between were pretty great! Overall I liked this book quite a bit. Far better than the first Shalvis I read ages ago. I could see her becoming a favorite. Back to this book though.

I liked the characters a lot. The romance worked well for me. Besides the beginning and end, the pace was consistent. Lots of dialog which I just love. And I was definitely emotionally invested, we got some tears happening up in here… I'm a happy reader. I give it a thumbs up!

This is the 3rd in the Animal Magnetism series. We've had to wait for months for each other of these and they have been soooo worth the wait. I adored the first two in this series and Rescue My Heart tops the first two by a smidge or two. In the first two books you get a pieces of Adam. He's a man in control of his life or so it appears. He's capable of a little humor but mostly he's very serious. He's really suffering from PTSD from his time in the military. He's a was on a rescue team on a mission that went horribly bad and he lost half his team. He's been trying to work on dealing with that with the help of his brothers since he got back stateside. In walks Holly. No one knows it but he and Holly were at item one summer years ago in their youth. He left her for the military and never looked back. It killed him to do it but he thought he was saving them both. Now Holly is back and pissed at him all the time it seems. He can't figure out why. It doesn't matter when she comes to him needing his help to find her missing dad in the mountains. Finally on their trek to find her dad does she get to ask him some questions and find out who Adam Connelly is now. Of course that's the beginning of Adam having to deal with his feelings for Holly and feeling in general. I really loved this book. Jill Shalvis deals with A very serious problem with many soldiers returning from overseas duty with PTSD. Anxiety is a big part of that and you don't have to be in the military to experience that either as many people know. The romance parts were sexy as hell. Jill knows how to use words that draw you in. I read this from beginning to end in one day. You don't want to put it down. Where in the previous books you like Adam but you don't know him. I felt that open up and i loved what i saw once it did. No matter how Adam has suffered he is still a strong person and does the right thing. Definitely a book for my keeper pile.

Rescue My Heart, Animal Magnetism #3, by Jill Shalvis
Grade: B

"I've been taking kickboxing. I have moves, you know. Badass moves."

Like most fans of the Animal Magnetism series I have been eagerly anticipating Adam and Holly's story ever since they were introduced. Adam and Holly have a long history together filled with misunderstandings, heartache and lots of very strong feelings for one another. Holly is back in Idaho to help her father with his businesses after leaving New York and her failed marriage. Adam was the boy who broke her heart years ago and is still the same handsome man she remembers. Adam is not the man Holly knew and has been harden by what he saw in Afghanistan but with her help Adam may just be able to let go of the bad memories and start creating new ones.

I am a Jill Shalvis addict and her characters are always some of my favorites in contemporary romance. I wasn't a big Holly fan when starting this book but by the end I ended up liking her more than Adam. Holly grows up a lot in this story and really fights for everything that she wants including the stubborn man who keeps her at arm length. Adam got on my nerves at time and more than once I wanted to tell Holly to walk away and stop putting up with his crap. He did redeem himself by the end and I love these two together.

For days after I finish reading a book in this series I have to convince myself over and over again that no I cannot have a dog right now. Some of the best moments involve the animals in the characters lives and they also allow everyone to show a softer side to them. I cannot wait for the next book and am so happy this series will be continuing.

We have reuniting past lovers. Normally, I don't care for these types of stories, but this one is good. When Adam Connelly was growing up, he was punk and up to no good. So, he went into National Guard to straight his life out. In doing so, he broke the heart of Holly. I can't remember her last name. You got to remember I'm doing this all by memory. Anyway, he goes off, one miss ends up bad and he ends up PTDS.

Back to Sunshine present day. Now Adam trains rescue dogs, but he doesn't go out to field. However, Holly comes to her concern about her father, because she hasn't heard from him in days. Of course, a bad storm is coming, so she goes to Adam for help. During this journey they rediscover they have some unfinished business.

Honestly, I think this is my second favorite book in the series. Adam is that quiet brooding type of hero that makes you want to crack him. Holly is stubborn and that gets her in some trouble. Fun story. The banter between the two of them is hilarious. It seems like Holly and Adam bring out the best and worst out of each other. Overall, Rescue My Heart is a sweet, fun, sassy read (or listen). Now I'm anxious to see what Jill will bring with Holly's brother, Griff, story. Now that should be a good one.

Third in the Animal Magnetism series, this book tackles the long-awaited romance of Adam Connelly, a supporting character in the previous two installments. Longtime fans of the series will be excited as the great alpha male finally has his own story.

After serving countless stints in Afghanistan, Adam finally returns home to Belle Haven with nothing more than a ravaging case of PTSD and little desire to do anything but lick his wounds and work in the animal shelter he owns with his brothers. He certainly has no desire to rekindle a long-dead relationship with the haughty Holly Reid. Adam broke her heart when he left for the National Guard, but she knows of no one she can rely on more in her time of need. Forced together in close quarters, the two must learn to trust one another again and to discover if maybe their love isn't as buried as they had thought.

Jill Shalvis writes a wonderfully deep and enriching tale of forgiveness and love with strong yet honestly emotional characters. Rescue My Heart is a whirlwind of fast-paced action and sexy romance from page one to the very last word.

-Lanine Bradley, posted on Sacramento Book Review

Thanks to the publisher, Berkley, and NetGalley for the chance to read this early!

I admit upfront that I am a huge, Jill Shalvis fan...I love her Lucky Harbor series. Then, Lucky me, I discovered this series...I read them out of order - reading Rescue My Heart first, then Animal Magnetism, then Animal Attraction. It didn't bother that they were out of order (each can be read as standalone), but you don't want to miss neither Brady nor Dell's journey.
Ms. Shalvis is well known for her ability to create great characters. As an animal lover I fell in love with Adam, his ability to form a deep-unbreakable bond with all things furry is irresistible. He is struggling to keep his war-borne demons at bay; no longer even an active participate in his own life - he's not about to let anyone see the mess he's become by sharing himself with anyone...especially Holly. However, when Holly comes to him asking for help he can't refuse.

Out of options Holly must ask Adam, the boy who once broke her heart, to help her located her father. Based on her past relationship experiences she is no longer unwilling to depend on any man again. But a few nights alone with Adam in the Bitterroot Mountains is wreak havoc on her resolve to bury long forgotten feelings.

Anyone who enjoys a spicy contemporary romance will definitely enjoy this book.

Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge through NetGalley for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.

What can I say – Shalvis has once again created a perfect romance, sweet and sexy, fun and light but with a bit of real life “darkness” in it, too!

Adam . . . * dreamy sigh * Oh, yes, I wouldn't need candy around if I had him! ;)

I can't tell you how many pages I bookmarked while reading Rescue My Heart; if I could, I would share every one of my favorite scenes with you, but instead you will just have to trust me and read this book yourself.

When I pick up one of Shalvis' books, I always know I will thoroughly enjoy the story, and Rescue My Heart was no different! I think this series can easily be read out of order (I started with book 4, Grif's story, which I LOVED, and still need to read books 1 and 2), but, as with all of her books, once you start, you just can't stop returning to these loveable small-towns!

4 Stars!

~ * ~ * ~

For my full review, including favorite book quotes, please visit my blog, TBQ's Book Palace.

I bought this book and chose to share my honest opinion.

TheBookQueen

Adam Connelly from Sunshine has had enough. He's tired...he's lonely...and he can't sleep. After a tragic accident with the National Guards Adam is close to calling it quits.

Then Holly comes back. And meaner than before. Holly learned the hard way never to depend on men. Never to open your heart to them or you will get crushed. Wasn't Adam such a wonderful teacher of love to Holly? She's picking up the best quality a man can give!

But then a family member goes missing and it takes every once of Adams heart to not take charge of head strong Holly to take it easy when Holly doesn't do easy. But this one hiking might be the answer they both have been looking for...even if they haven't been looking hard enough!!!

Another great read....I don't even have to say this. Just let you know what the book is about and you should tell by the 5 stars I put on here that I just loved this book! Jill just makes the characters stand out and make you long to live among that town.....heck if they are always having hunk men going through their town, pack your bags Grandma!!! We're moving to Sunshine!! :)

Rescue My Heart
By Jill Shalvis
Adam’s back from overseas with some PTSD. He’s returned home to his family, where he works with dogs as an animal trainer. The love of his life, Holly is back in town. She needs Adam’s help to find her dad but soon she’s set to win back Adam’s heart.
This was my first Jill Shalvis book. I loved the interaction between the family members. They sound just like my own family. Dell’s and Grif’s teasing of their siblings bring back good memories of growing up. The animals have their own personalities as well. The dogs are a hit!
Rescue My Heart is the third book in the Animal Magnetism series. I hadn’t read any of the other books and was able to enjoy and follow the story just fine. If you love a fun contemporary romance with excitement and sibling rivalry, this is the story for you!

Third in the Animal Magnetism series, this book tackles the long-awaited romance of Adam Connelly, a supporting character in the previous two installments. Longtime fans of the series will be excited as the great alpha male finally has his own story.

After serving countless stints in Afghanistan, Adam finally returns home to Belle Haven with nothing more than a ravaging case of PTSD and little desire to do anything but lick his wounds and work in the animal shelter he owns with his brothers. He certainly has no desire to rekindle a long-dead relationship with the haughty Holly Reid. Adam broke her heart when he left for the National Guard, but she knows of no one she can rely on more in her time of need. Forced together in close quarters, the two must learn to trust one another again and to discover if maybe their love isn't as buried as they had thought.

Jill Shalvis writes a wonderfully deep and enriching tale of forgiveness and love with strong yet honestly emotional characters. Rescue My Heart is a whirlwind of fast-paced action and sexy romance from page one to the very last word.

-Lanine Bradley, posted on Sacramento Book Review

Thanks to the publisher, Berkley, and NetGalley for the chance to read this early!

I admit upfront that I am a huge, Jill Shalvis fan...I love her Lucky Harbor series. Then, Lucky me, I discovered this series...I read them out of order - reading Rescue My Heart first, then Animal Magnetism, then Animal Attraction. It didn't bother that they were out of order (each can be read as standalone), but you don't want to miss neither Brady nor Dell's journey.
Ms. Shalvis is well known for her ability to create great characters. As an animal lover I fell in love with Adam, his ability to form a deep-unbreakable bond with all things furry is irresistible. He is struggling to keep his war-borne demons at bay; no longer even an active participate in his own life - he's not about to let anyone see the mess he's become by sharing himself with anyone...especially Holly. However, when Holly comes to him asking for help he can't refuse.

Out of options Holly must ask Adam, the boy who once broke her heart, to help her located her father. Based on her past relationship experiences she is no longer unwilling to depend on any man again. But a few nights alone with Adam in the Bitterroot Mountains is wreak havoc on her resolve to bury long forgotten feelings.

Anyone who enjoys a spicy contemporary romance will definitely enjoy this book.

Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge through NetGalley for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.

What can I say – Shalvis has once again created a perfect romance, sweet and sexy, fun and light but with a bit of real life “darkness” in it, too!

Adam . . . * dreamy sigh * Oh, yes, I wouldn't need candy around if I had him! ;)

I can't tell you how many pages I bookmarked while reading Rescue My Heart; if I could, I would share every one of my favorite scenes with you, but instead you will just have to trust me and read this book yourself.

When I pick up one of Shalvis' books, I always know I will thoroughly enjoy the story, and Rescue My Heart was no different! I think this series can easily be read out of order (I started with book 4, Grif's story, which I LOVED, and still need to read books 1 and 2), but, as with all of her books, once you start, you just can't stop returning to these loveable small-towns!

4 Stars!

~ * ~ * ~

For my full review, including favorite book quotes, please visit my blog, TBQ's Book Palace.

I bought this book and chose to share my honest opinion.

TheBookQueen

Adam Connelly from Sunshine has had enough. He's tired...he's lonely...and he can't sleep. After a tragic accident with the National Guards Adam is close to calling it quits.

Then Holly comes back. And meaner than before. Holly learned the hard way never to depend on men. Never to open your heart to them or you will get crushed. Wasn't Adam such a wonderful teacher of love to Holly? She's picking up the best quality a man can give!

But then a family member goes missing and it takes every once of Adams heart to not take charge of head strong Holly to take it easy when Holly doesn't do easy. But this one hiking might be the answer they both have been looking for...even if they haven't been looking hard enough!!!

Another great read....I don't even have to say this. Just let you know what the book is about and you should tell by the 5 stars I put on here that I just loved this book! Jill just makes the characters stand out and make you long to live among that town.....heck if they are always having hunk men going through their town, pack your bags Grandma!!! We're moving to Sunshine!! :)

Rescue My Heart
By Jill Shalvis
Adam’s back from overseas with some PTSD. He’s returned home to his family, where he works with dogs as an animal trainer. The love of his life, Holly is back in town. She needs Adam’s help to find her dad but soon she’s set to win back Adam’s heart.
This was my first Jill Shalvis book. I loved the interaction between the family members. They sound just like my own family. Dell’s and Grif’s teasing of their siblings bring back good memories of growing up. The animals have their own personalities as well. The dogs are a hit!
Rescue My Heart is the third book in the Animal Magnetism series. I hadn’t read any of the other books and was able to enjoy and follow the story just fine. If you love a fun contemporary romance with excitement and sibling rivalry, this is the story for you!

The third in the Animal Magnetism series, "Rescue my Heart" is Adam and Holly's story.

Adam has returned from military service in Afghanistan and deals with the trauma he encountered there with fierce, wordless control, knowing that if he loses control, he'll have to face the fears that haunt him. Holly is the hometown girl who he left behind when he left Sunshine, Idaho, certain that he was no good for her.

The plot has been done before, but Shalvis keeps it fresh by bringing emotional depth and humor to the story, and the pacing is stronger than it was in "Animal Magnetism" - there is more search-and-rescue action that adds a touch of suspense.

Alpha-male romances aren't my favorite, but this book won me over with its strong characterizations witty dialogue, and charm.

Jill Shalvis has written a blistering contemporary romance that will leave you addicted to the desire, the passion, and the chemistry between two enticing characters. You will live the everyday lives of these characters and wish you were a resident of Belle Haven. Jill Shalvis pulls you into the story with a slow build that will keep your attention until the release when you feel completely satiated. She will make you wonder about the one who got away, yet she will leave you with a well-deserved HEA. Her way of blending romance and passion with humor and vulnerability will pull you into the pages as a participant in her story. You will care about these characters as easily you care about your own family and friends. I give this book 4 stars and recommend it to those who love a quick read that will leave you with a smile. Although this book is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone.

Adam Connelly has PTSD and although has been in therapy for two years he does not believe he is dealing with it well. Two years ago he came home from a mission in Afghanistan and has battled his nightmares ever since. He makes a living teaching and training search and rescue personnel and dogs and is very accredited; however he had not been involved in an active rescue in two years, not since Afghanistan when he and his unit had been called to rescue a group of British soldiers stuck on the side of a mountain. His group rappelled from helicopters into enemy fire and were stuck in caves for several days, half his unit was killed in that rescue attempt and he has not gotten over it.

Holly Reid is the daughter of one of Adam's clients and what others do not realize is that twelve years ago, before he went into the army she was much more to him. Holly's father, Donald Reid is a very wealthy business man who has bought several failing ranches and turned them around. Holly is handling the business side of the ranching conglomerate. Her father and Adam work together as Donald fosters several search and rescue puppies while Adam trains them until they were ready to go to work.

Adam had been Holly's first everything until he left for the army breaking her heart. She got married quickly when she left town much to the dismay of her father and brother. It turned out to be a miserable marriage when she caught him cheating so she left him and when Derek did not show up at court, was granted a divorce. Her pride has prevented her from saying anything to her family, as she did not want to hear the "I told you so" speech.

Holly has only ever asked Adam for one thing, that when he went into the army he kept her in his heart, however he didn't and left without looking back. And now unfortunately she is back seeking him out to ask him for another favor. Her father is missing and she feels something bad has happened. As they race to find her father in the Idaho wilderness, they relive old hurts. Holly realizes she still has strong feelings for Adam and yet Adam feels his current state of mind is dangerous and does not feel he is stable enough to take on more than he is doing now. Even though he has strong feelings for Holly, he is one very scared man.

I think this was my favorite out of the series so far. I love the damaged hero and Adam was the perfect fit. They complemented each other nicely and I loved how Holly helped him deal with his issues without making him feel worse. Holly so protected her feelings from everyone that when she did let them show it was unforgettable. I enjoyed seeing Adam's brothers as they tried to help him yet realizing that Holly was so good for him. All in all a wonderful story full of hope.

Adam was so much more interesting in the other books. Actually, all of the characters were. This book felt very flat to me and was extremely repetitive. Holly was her own woman...Holly was strong...Holly lived among too many alpha males - over and over those sentiments were repeated. And Adam...he had more dimensions when he was a supporting character than when he got his own story! Okay, he's got some PTSD issues. That does not need to be on every page.

There was also way too much going on - filler. The mom, the dog training, the book club, Kate and Grif (which was more interesting than anything else). But I'll tell you what wasn't going on - the love scenes. They were few and far between and when they did occur, it was over before it started. It wasn't the usual from this author.

And just like that, Ms. Shalvis does it again! Another fun romance book to give me that fix I needed. This one was about an old couple reconnecting. Holly's father is missing and she asks the man who once broke her heart, Adam, to help her find him. Their adventure together is up and down. Throw in her ex-hubby and you get a good romance novel! On to the next one!

I was looking forward to Adam's story, liked Brady & Dell's stories but unfortunately I just didn't feel this one...on an emotional level anyway. Parts of the story were okay and I loved the dogs .. probably more than the humans. Lots of eye rolls for ridiculous lines..one of those lines went something like this.. Holly felt someone stand behind her, she didn't know who but when she felt a hand on her back, her nipples went hard and she knew it was Adam.... really, come on she was doing some shopping at the time for heavens sake !! Basically Holly wanted Adam, Adam didn't want Holly, on and on and round and round this scenaro went. While I was reading this story I knew it was a bad sign when I started thinking about what book I was going to read next. I do like the Author so will give Griff & Katie's book a go for sure when it comes out. 2-1/2 stars for this one though.

Initially enjoyed the story; however, too much angst and not enough of trying to figure out the feelings. I think Adam protest too much and Holly tried too much and when he admitted his feelings, it was too little too late. Okay read.

I recommend this story from Jill Shalvis - I've enjoyed all the books I've ever picked up from Jill and Rescue My Heart is no exception. The characters come to life with excellent dialog and story flow. The woman in the tale showed determination not willing to take no for an answer. There was suspense and adventure throughout that kept me turning the pages. This book will not disappoint. Thanks for another well written work, Jill Shalvis

I have absolutely loved every book in this series so far! It has been a lot of fun getting to know all the characters in this series, haven't met one yet that I didn't like! These stories will melt your heart, make you laugh, shed a few tears and keep you engaged the whole way through!

Really enjoyed this book. The hero in this book was very stubborn. Holly was definitely his match. Jill Shalvis writes real life characters. I highly recommnend. I encourage you to buy. I will not give the story away and spoil your reading. I really like this story. Will probably read again.

OMG, "Rescue My Heart" was absolutely boring. By the middle of the book, I was disgusted and disappointed by the story line. I skipped over several pages at a time to just get through "Rescue My Heart." I just did not like this book for a myriad of reasons to include the principal characters. The interaction between Adam, the hero, and Holly, the heroine, just did not ring true. Although Adam left the military with PTSD, he had taken steps to heal through counseling and interactions with his supportive family. After breaking up with her years before, Adam decided to have sex with Holly on a search and rescue mission for Holly's father. After he slept with Holly, Adam seemed wishy-washy in what he wanted besides the sex. Adam ran hot one minute and cold in the next in which he repeatedly said that he did not want a committed relationship. However, Holly still chased after him. Before the sex, their interactions had been acrimonious but after one night Holly starts falling in love again. The situation did not make sense. Holly needed to give Adam a wide-berth until he figured out his game plan. Instead, Holly was a complete loser, and had the attitude that she could change Adam.

When she had sex with him, Holly tried to blame Adam because he did not want to move to the next level. If a woman sleeps with a guy, she should do it because she wants to have sex not as emotional blackmail. So, Holly positioned herself in Adam's path again and again, and tried to convince Adam that they could have a relationship. When the author tried to show a contrast between other women and Holly's stalking of Adam, I did not see one. Adam's was a dog trainer by profession. In the book, another woman brought her dog to a dog training class taught by Adam. While in the class, the woman repeatedly tried to flirt with Adam, who was not interested. Holly showed up for the same class with her father's dogs. She volunteered to take the dogs to the class and did not have to be there. This time, Adam showed interest in Holly and wanted to sleep with her again. I was taken aback in the reasons for his choice. Holly was a stalker like the other woman but I guess a prettier stalker.

Jill Shalvis, the author, perpetuated several stereotypes about clingy women in this book. Shalvis implied that if a woman stayed in there, she could get the guy because "the hero" eventually will change his mind and fall madly in love. One other stereotype was that sex equates to commitment. Women get caught in that trap too often. Unlike women, most men regard sex as just sex. The reality is that "friend with benefits" normally do not lead to committed relationships. Adam was clear in that sex was OK for him but he did not want the emotional entanglements. Holly needed to have some backbone and self-respect. I wanted her to get a life and not wait for this bozo to get his act together. Two people, who like and respect each other, can create a committed, loving relationship over the long term. Adam and Holly's relationship based on only sex did not have a firm foundation for the long term.

I have enjoyed Shalvis' other books in the this series but this one missed the marked by a wide berth. I hope the next one is better.

I really enjoyed this book by Jill Shalvis. I have been an avid reader of hers for many years now. I have always enjoyed her books and this one definitely did not disappoint in any way! The history between the two was interesting, and I enjoyed her setting up the next books love story!

Another great from Shalvis!