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Hometown Heroes #1
This Time Around
Air Force flight surgeon Grayson Clark and NGO worker Lori Rutledge shared a romantic summer full of promise and ultimately heartbreak. But after his turbulent childhood, Gray’s ill-equipped to offer Lori the security she craves. Separate is better. Or so he thinks until they’re paired on a military rescue operation to an overseas orphanage. When one heart-tugging orphan charms her way into Lori’s life and Grayson’s heart, Lori dares to hope that she and her hometown hero may find a way to forever this time around.
*An earlier draft of this novel was released by Silhouette/Harlequin Books as Grayson's Surrender.
*An earlier draft of this novel was released by Silhouette/Harlequin Books as Grayson's Surrender.
Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2002
About the author
Catherine Mann
539 books1,140 followersUSA Today bestseller Catherine Mann and RITA Award winner, Catherine writes contemporary romance for Lake Union, Berkley, Harlequin, Sourcebooks and Tule. With over 100 books released in more than twenty countries, she has also celebrated six RITA finals, an RT Reviewer’s Award finalist, three Maggie Award of Excellence finals and a Bookseller’s Best win. After years moving around the country bringing up four children, Catherine has settled in her home state of South Carolina with her real-life hero husband. The nest didn’t stay empty long though as Catherine and her husband are active in animal rescue, and also volunteer with area service dog and pet therapy organizations. Catherine enjoys hearing from her readers and can be found online frequently through Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. http://catherinemann.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
December 16, 2013
I am a loser with child stories. Everything involving a child makes me bawl like a baby! LOL
The story begins with a lot of action, both hero and heroine involved in a rescue mission in a far country, trying to save 72 orphans from war.
Both of them have a previous history together and this time, the little Magda is the factor putting them together again.
Loved it!!
The story begins with a lot of action, both hero and heroine involved in a rescue mission in a far country, trying to save 72 orphans from war.
Both of them have a previous history together and this time, the little Magda is the factor putting them together again.
Loved it!!
December 23, 2022
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
This Time Around begins the Hometown Heroes series with an emotional romance, perhaps a second chance for two people who really do love each other to finally get their issues straight and find a lasting future… if they are brave enough to take some risks.
On the surface, Grayson and Lori should not work as a couple. She’s looking for the idealistic happily ever after that she’s always dreamed would be her future, he’s not willing to make a commitment beyond the “we’re good right now” kind. In spite of their strong feelings for each other, it was this divide that pulled them apart. Now, thanks to a few shenanigans from Grayson’s team they’ll find themselves on a rescue mission – one that will change lives forever, even beyond themselves.
I enjoyed Grayson’s and Lori’s journey to that happy ending, but it certainly was quite a battle to finally get there. Their bantering exchanges, the issues that they both faced, and the growing love for one little girl will drive not only their romance but their future as well. As always, the secondary characters bring this world to life – and I’m looking forward to several future stories for this crew. I had fun in this world of two stubborn people, a second chance to get love right and lasting, as well as an adorable little girl who will steal scenes and hearts easily. If you love a challenging relationship, some real issues to work through, and the love of a child being a central theme in your romances, then you’ll love This Time Around.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout. The opinions expressed in this review are my own – good, bad, or indifferent.*
This Time Around begins the Hometown Heroes series with an emotional romance, perhaps a second chance for two people who really do love each other to finally get their issues straight and find a lasting future… if they are brave enough to take some risks.
On the surface, Grayson and Lori should not work as a couple. She’s looking for the idealistic happily ever after that she’s always dreamed would be her future, he’s not willing to make a commitment beyond the “we’re good right now” kind. In spite of their strong feelings for each other, it was this divide that pulled them apart. Now, thanks to a few shenanigans from Grayson’s team they’ll find themselves on a rescue mission – one that will change lives forever, even beyond themselves.
I enjoyed Grayson’s and Lori’s journey to that happy ending, but it certainly was quite a battle to finally get there. Their bantering exchanges, the issues that they both faced, and the growing love for one little girl will drive not only their romance but their future as well. As always, the secondary characters bring this world to life – and I’m looking forward to several future stories for this crew. I had fun in this world of two stubborn people, a second chance to get love right and lasting, as well as an adorable little girl who will steal scenes and hearts easily. If you love a challenging relationship, some real issues to work through, and the love of a child being a central theme in your romances, then you’ll love This Time Around.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout. The opinions expressed in this review are my own – good, bad, or indifferent.*
August 5, 2023
This is not my normal genre to read, but I went in with an open mind. It was a quick read, and I overall enjoyed it. The characters were enjoyable, and I liked both of the main characters. Grayson, the lead, was a doctor and pilot for the Air Force who had commitment issues, and Lori, the female lead, worked for NGO to help save children from war-torn countries. They had a previous relationship that didn't work out and were brought back together.
Overall, it was the general trope of they were together and now tossed back, and how will they make it work this time? Their previous time together was brought back up, and they seemed to be together for a while, but I guess it was only three months. That seemed weird since he was going to ask them to live together, and she thought it was going to be heading right into marriage. They kept making it sound like they were together for a lot longer and I had to keep checking that nope. It was only three months, so I think their lust goggles were on still. I think that was why I gave it only 4 stars.
The writing was pretty tight overall and kept the story moving quickly. This made for a quick and easy read. I enjoy it for what it is, a nice, simple modern romance, but I would have enjoyed a sex scene or two with all the build-up. But not completely necessary. I also got this book from a giveaway on Goodreads.
Overall, it was the general trope of they were together and now tossed back, and how will they make it work this time? Their previous time together was brought back up, and they seemed to be together for a while, but I guess it was only three months. That seemed weird since he was going to ask them to live together, and she thought it was going to be heading right into marriage. They kept making it sound like they were together for a lot longer and I had to keep checking that nope. It was only three months, so I think their lust goggles were on still. I think that was why I gave it only 4 stars.
The writing was pretty tight overall and kept the story moving quickly. This made for a quick and easy read. I enjoy it for what it is, a nice, simple modern romance, but I would have enjoyed a sex scene or two with all the build-up. But not completely necessary. I also got this book from a giveaway on Goodreads.
November 28, 2022
This is book one in The Hometown Heroes series and it is Lori and Grayson's story. Lori and Grayson have history that ended so badly and heart breaking but when they meet again they are on a military operation to save children from a overseas orphanage but will this be there second chance and the happy ending that they both deserve. This book has great characters and a storyline that pulled you in and kept your attention throughout. There are twists and turns along with ups and downs, danger, suspense, drama, chemistry and situations that have you turning the pages wondering what would happen next and even though Lori and Grayson had many hang ups and trust issue's they were perfect for each other and then add in a baby from the orphanage that makes it into both of there heart's and you have a beautiful, caring, sweet, emotional and poignant story. I recommend that you read this book and other's by this author and you will not be disappointed.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
November 10, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksprout and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
This is the start of a new series. I can't find the words to describe how compelling and inspirational this book is. I was so very sad to see the end of this book. I could have gotten lost in this couple's journey for several hundred more pages!
Can two people with two different backgrounds find their HEA? A daughter of artistic nomads who wants a home and roots? The other an Air Force Major a flyer as well as a doctor. He has a father who was a POW and came back a different closed-off person. He doesn't want to inflict what his mother went through on a wife. He just can't do commitment, unless it is to the military.
Reading their journey really shows how two people can change. How they grow and realize what is really important.
This is told in a dual POV format. Seeing into both of their thoughts, really help me to better understand and connect to them. It make them so much more human than characters in a book.
I am anxious to start on the next book in this series!
This is the start of a new series. I can't find the words to describe how compelling and inspirational this book is. I was so very sad to see the end of this book. I could have gotten lost in this couple's journey for several hundred more pages!
Can two people with two different backgrounds find their HEA? A daughter of artistic nomads who wants a home and roots? The other an Air Force Major a flyer as well as a doctor. He has a father who was a POW and came back a different closed-off person. He doesn't want to inflict what his mother went through on a wife. He just can't do commitment, unless it is to the military.
Reading their journey really shows how two people can change. How they grow and realize what is really important.
This is told in a dual POV format. Seeing into both of their thoughts, really help me to better understand and connect to them. It make them so much more human than characters in a book.
I am anxious to start on the next book in this series!
June 13, 2024
This Time Around is a standalone contemporary book by Catherine Mann, and is the first book in the Hometown Heroes series.
When I first started reading I had the thought that this is the perfect Harlequin romance, knowing that I had read Catherine Mann's romances around 15 years ago when I first started to get into the genre. After making those connections, I figured out that this book is the re-release of Mann's Wingmen Warriors series, this first book was originally called Grayson's Surrender and a quick comparison showed that not much had been changed between editions.
If you're into military and medical romances, this book brings both of these tropes together. An adventure filled second chance romance that happens to include a cute orphan who is evacuated to the US. Grayson and Lori have a history that isn't bitter, it is only incomplete and I enjoyed getting to them and their past, as they tried to figure out their future together.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I first started reading I had the thought that this is the perfect Harlequin romance, knowing that I had read Catherine Mann's romances around 15 years ago when I first started to get into the genre. After making those connections, I figured out that this book is the re-release of Mann's Wingmen Warriors series, this first book was originally called Grayson's Surrender and a quick comparison showed that not much had been changed between editions.
If you're into military and medical romances, this book brings both of these tropes together. An adventure filled second chance romance that happens to include a cute orphan who is evacuated to the US. Grayson and Lori have a history that isn't bitter, it is only incomplete and I enjoyed getting to them and their past, as they tried to figure out their future together.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2023
I was hooked from the first page, with the unfamiliar world of military people on a mission pulling me in. Gray seemed like a good but troubled man, so I was interested in his past and his failed relationship with Lori. I was excited by the action of saving the kids from war and how committed the pair were to helping them. Until that point in the book, I was shipping the characters to get together as soon as possible, seeing as they were both miserable without each other. However, the books got more disappointing for me the further I got. And there came a time when I thought Gray and Lori were not right for each other. I wish I felt differently, though, because the writing was pretty good, and I liked the side characters and the idea for this type of romance in general. I'm glad there was a happy ending, but I still don't know if the relationship actually made much sense.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2022
This is a beautiful second chance romance centered around Gray and Lori. They broke up a year ago, but they haven’t forgotten each other. When an assignment to bring some orphans to the United States from Sentava, Gray’s fellow Air Force team members arrange it so Lori and Gray will reconnect on the trip. Can they get over their differences this time and try again or is it just not to be? This book has many wonderful characters and I bet you’ll love the orphan, Magda. This little girl quickly gets Lori to fall for her. Pretty soon Gray follows. I won’t leave any spoilers, but I will say I loved how Gray stepped up when Lori really needed him to. Grab your copy and I bet you’ll fall in love with Lori’s fly boy yourself.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2022
This is a sweet, military romance. it is also a second chance romance. The characters are well thought out and well developed. Both have issues that make having a lasting relationship difficult. Adoption is a part of the story. PTSD is discussed and treatment is sought. Loved this first book in the Hometown Heroes series. Can't wait for the rest.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.This is a sweet, military romance. it is also a second chance romance. The characters are well thought out and well developed. Both have issues that make having a lasting relationship difficult. Adoption is a part of the story. PTSD is discussed and treatment is sought. Loved this first book in the Hometown Heroes series. Can't wait for the rest.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.This is a sweet, military romance. it is also a second chance romance. The characters are well thought out and well developed. Both have issues that make having a lasting relationship difficult. Adoption is a part of the story. PTSD is discussed and treatment is sought. Loved this first book in the Hometown Heroes series. Can't wait for the rest.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2023
I really liked Gray’s character and felt for him having his former girlfriend on the scene again when she had previously walked out on him. He comes across as a caring and loveable doctor/pilot and his plan to move across country to avoid reminders of Lori is understandable.
They have a complex relationship and in the background there’s still the heartache of their last break-up plus his own father’s PTSD.
Magda’s relationship with Gray made me smile. She clearly disliked that he’d taken her away from Lori. The comments implied from her looks were funny. Once she started calling him doc, I loved her.
Half way through the story and I still had no idea how it would pan out.
A lovely story one I definitely recommend for a perfect HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
They have a complex relationship and in the background there’s still the heartache of their last break-up plus his own father’s PTSD.
Magda’s relationship with Gray made me smile. She clearly disliked that he’d taken her away from Lori. The comments implied from her looks were funny. Once she started calling him doc, I loved her.
Half way through the story and I still had no idea how it would pan out.
A lovely story one I definitely recommend for a perfect HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2022
This book had potential. It moved a bit slow for my liking. The main characters were back and forth on how they want each other but they are wrong for each other. But don’t get me wrong, there were some really sweet moments that I enjoyed.
I just needed more of them together before the book ended. I also wish we got to see their relationship the first time around, it was mentioned but I wish we got to see it unfold and see how they got to where they are now. I wanted to see them fall in love with each other again even if their love didn’t fade away while they were apart.
Happy they got their happily ever after though. And I enjoyed the epilogue!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I just needed more of them together before the book ended. I also wish we got to see their relationship the first time around, it was mentioned but I wish we got to see it unfold and see how they got to where they are now. I wanted to see them fall in love with each other again even if their love didn’t fade away while they were apart.
Happy they got their happily ever after though. And I enjoyed the epilogue!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 26, 2023
Wow, this one was one of those you knew that Lori and Gray would figure it out, but the twists and turns and emotional angst was tough for them (and me) to go through. Lori was amazing she was so in live with Gray that regardless of how many times he couldn't get out of his own head she kept trying. And it was exactly what she had to do to get him to realize the greatest two things in his life was their little girl Magda and the stunning Lori. I absolutely loved the court scene what a way to get your girls attention and prove just how much you love her and are willing to do for her. Great book I highly recommend it and keep a box of tissues nearby because at the end as you will need them.
November 28, 2022
This story was about a second chance at love set up by Air Force flight surgeon Grayson Clark’s friends during a military rescue operation.Lori is an NGO worker with whom Gray had a summer of romance that ultimately ended due to Gray’s commitment issues to anything other than the Air Force. While saving orphans from a war, they encounter Magda, who is an absolute heartbreaker who attaches herself to Lori and when Gray sees this he thinks he can give Lori everything she wants and needs except him. As he will come to fund out you can’t deny love no matter how hard you try.
Great second chance with a happily ever after and a bonus epilogue that is fantastic.
Great second chance with a happily ever after and a bonus epilogue that is fantastic.
December 2, 2022
Grey and Lori are meant to be together, however the first time they were together they managed to self destruct due to neither expressing how they really felt or communicating. This second chance is due to the meddling of his friends and one special little girl, however there is still loads they need to work through with each other which at times has you so gosh darn frustrated!!
But lessons were learned from last time and honesty is needed for them to have a happy ever after so when we get to the court scene well feel free to swoon away with the gesture!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But lessons were learned from last time and honesty is needed for them to have a happy ever after so when we get to the court scene well feel free to swoon away with the gesture!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 6, 2022
This Time Around is Catherine Mann’s introduction into the Hometown Heroes storyline. Major Grayson “Cutter” Clark is a true American Hero. A US Air Force pilot and flight surgeon, he’s both a pilot and a doctor. The only thing lacking from his life is a woman who loves him for being himself. He found that once in Lori Rutledge but they couldn’t battle both their demons. When fate, and a little squadron hijinks, throws them back together, they learn that they loved the same think – family, service, and each other. With the help of an unexpected little angel, Magda, they reconnect and learn to take care of each other. I LOVE this series and can’t wait for the next book.
July 2, 2023
Grayson is a pilot and doctor in the military. He broke up with Lori as they were not on the same page for their futures. His team knows better and when it comes to a mission to save some orphans, the two are hooked up again to find the one little girl that will tug their hearts. Loved all the characters and especially Magda. The storyline was has its ups and downs but the heartwarming reconnecting and transport of the kids was fantastic. The little girl will keep them on their toes for sure. Loved the chemistry of all involved and the ending was terrific as it pulled it all together.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2024
First book in an Interconnected series of standalone romances. Grayson is highly upset when he discovers his team rigged it so that he would have to be on a mission with the ex he hasn't gotten over. Lori's ready to settle down and start a family. She grew up constantly traveling all over the world and doesn't want that in a marriage. The chemistry is definitely there with Grayson but he refuses to commit. Will a very sick orphan girl help open his heart? What does it take for her to get the family that she wants? Can she learn to accept him and the military life?.
I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.
I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.
November 28, 2022
Lori is a social worker who goes on a mission to rescue children when she reconnects with Grayson who is a Air Force pilot and surgeon. They dated for three months and when he would not commit she broke things off. Now they are on the mission together and one little girl is left without a home Lori agrees to take her in and Grayson much to his surprise is drawn to the little family unit that Lori has created. Lori was a little immature in the beginning and was happy she matured when she runs into Grayson again.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2022
This is the first book I've read written by Catherine Mann; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
This is the first book in the Hometown Heroes Series; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Lori & Grayson; they spent a romantic summer together but because of his childhood he can’t offer more. They end up working together on a operation to save children at an overseas orphanage; one of the children bring them closer.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first book in the Hometown Heroes Series; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Lori & Grayson; they spent a romantic summer together but because of his childhood he can’t offer more. They end up working together on a operation to save children at an overseas orphanage; one of the children bring them closer.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
December 3, 2022
This story struck a lot of emotions in me while I was reading it. The main two characters get a second chance to build a future together when they help rescue some orphaned children. He thought that his career was everything and the way he grew up makes him not want to get married. She wants love and stability. Read to see what it will take for these two to find their happy ending. You won't be disappointed. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 3, 2022
This is a well written second chance romance with strong characters in Grayson and Lori. The author does a great job developing their story and painting her scenes. It's a sweet and sexy story with all the feels. She brings drama, romance and love as she brings them together along with the orphan baby. The story moves fluidly and I enjoyed reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own are freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own are freely given.
June 30, 2023
Grey hurt Lori by not sharing her dreams of marriage and family but one pint sized stubborn orphan could change his mind and bring them together. I could tell it wouldn’t be easy for Lori to give up Magda especially after she spent weeks fostering her and showering her in gifts and love. Grey was shortsighted and stubborn too and I wasn’t sure if he would realize what he was losing before it was too late. His friends were a riot and I’m looking forward to their stories.
July 7, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
This is the first book in the Hometown Heroes series, it's an emotional second chance romance.
Gray and Lori had a steamy romance and then Lori walked with no explanations. Gray still hasn't gotten over her so when he is on a mission to rescue some orphans in a war torn country, he felt like his legs got pulled out from under him when is friends manipulate the situation to put him and Lori together and reconnect.
This is the first book in the Hometown Heroes series, it's an emotional second chance romance.
Gray and Lori had a steamy romance and then Lori walked with no explanations. Gray still hasn't gotten over her so when he is on a mission to rescue some orphans in a war torn country, he felt like his legs got pulled out from under him when is friends manipulate the situation to put him and Lori together and reconnect.
June 26, 2024
A second chance almost lost again. A novel filled with drama, action, heroes and love. A great read, I loved Grey and Lori’s honesty in their relationships...... even if they had trouble communicating. And the “gift” that bought them together, along with Gray showing up and manning up to give This Time Round the beautiful, happy ending the story deserved.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 30, 2022
The first book in the Hometown Heroes series. Air Force flight surgeon Grayson Clark and NGO worker Lori Rutledge and the little girl Magda that brings so much love into their lifes. This Ms. Mann brings her stories to life and makes it feel like you are there seeing the story unfold in front of you. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2022
This Time Around by Catherine Mann is a good, and enjoyable sweet southern single mom romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry. This story is an enjoyable second chance romance read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 10, 2022
A sweet, second chance romance. The story line is realistic and entertaining. The book is well-written and I enjoyed the characters and their attraction. It's a heartwarming story about communication, honesty, forgiveness and love, one I highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2023
I’ve already read books 2-4 of this series and am circling around to book one. I love how the thrill of military adventures just grips you in these romances. I love the inclusion of so much of the military life, it isn’t just an added icing on the cake of a romance. These are well written and researched books.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 27, 2023
I'm reading this series out of order, but that doesn't really matter! It is nice to follow up with the characters from other books though. While this book didn't have as much spice as the others, it certainly had heart. As an adoptee myself this book his me in all the right places. Well written, poignant and healing.
December 13, 2022
After a love filled summer, Grayson and Lori get a second chance with the help of a sweet little orphan. This was a heartwarming story that makes me crave more! I can't wait for the next in series to come out!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews