Guilty. ExCon. Felon. Prisoner. Criminal.Words that now represent me. Words that keep any decent person away from me. I never gave much thought to words before now. Slut. Hussy. Whore. Homewrecker. Jezebel.Words that now reflect me. Words that will stay indefinitely. The evidence of those words grow inside of me. Those Words make the entire town assume they are vindicated to use them. I am wrong. entire town assume they are vindicated to use them.
I am wrong.
They are right.
more
Wow what a fantastic book!!!! I read this in just hours. Could not put it down . Both Channing and Rylan have been dealt a crappy life from the beginning. Now their being judged for sins they’ve committed by those around them. But they need eachother to get through all the mess. I love this book and can not wait for the rest of the books to come out
Convict is the first book in Unfit Hero series. This is Rylan and Channing’s story. Rylan considers himself a murderer. He went to jail for killing someone in a car wreck. He was in prison for Manslaughter. Rylan gets released and moves back to the town he lived in before prison.
Channing has a taboo relationship with her teacher. Ends up pregnant. Now she is considered a “Slut. Hussy. Whore. Homewrecker. Jezebel.” in the same town as Rylan is
So I know some are only going to see this as a cheating romance and not look at the whole book. Cheating was romanticized at all.
I fell in love with this couple. Yes, poor choices were made & bad things happened. Channing was young and not very smart in her relationship. The teacher was even more wrong. But neither Channing nor Rylan were truly bad people.
They were just 2 people that are just trying to survive, heal themselves and live the best life they can.
I enjoyed this story very much so. I wonder who Unfit Hero #2 will be? I can’t wait to read more from this author.
This book was not an ARC I got in from Kindle Unlimited.
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~~4 SIZZLING STARS!~~
“Five years in hell brought me to you.”
Sparks fly when the “home wrecker” and the “convict’s” worlds collide in Gallup, Tx!
Confession: I am OBSESSED with stories featuring former felons, so this mouthwatering book cover and tantalizing blurb immediately caught my eye! And holy wow did it EXCEED my expectations! This is my first book by Hayley Faiman and am now a total fangirl!
I was transfixed by CONVICT from page one and was immediately sucked into the lives of Rylan and Channing, two town outcasts who are powerfully drawn together at first sight and against all odds find a second chance at love—and bittersweet redemption.
This smoldering hot, insta-love story unfolds at a warp speed but did not shortchange us on the heart throbbing feels! The intense emotions packed a punch, the whirlwind romance between these two kindred spirits was sweet and endearing, and YOWZA the erotic interludes were on fire!
Ryan and Channing’s combustible chemistry was interlaced with such heartfelt, poignant emotion that I couldn’t help but be completely and utterly swept up in their wildly addictive love story. And yes, there is no denying that this is a love at first sight kind of read—but it felt organic and AUTHENTIC and I truly felt their two shattered souls recognizing each other and slowly but surely fusing all their broken bits together to become whole. But even though their relationship progressed quickly and there was not much push-pull on either of their parts, the journey for Channing, an unwed mom-to-be whose life is shrouded in shame, and Rylan, a former addict whose horrific life-altering mistake behind the wheel will haunt him till his dying day, was far from easy. This book celebrates the beauty of forgiveness, second chances and love triumphing against all odds in the most wondrous of ways!
I fell head over heels for both these MCs —we ALL need a hot, ruggedly sexy, swoonworthy Alpha Male with a heart of gold like Rylan in our lives. His fierce devotion to Channing made me all warm and melty inside! And Channing was a such a sweetheart. I loved her warmth, her kindness, her tender-hearted temperament, and how she always held her head high even when it felt like the vultures were swarming. Gah, despite the obstacles in their path, these two WORKED SO HARD to atone for their past mistakes and deserved a shot at a better life. And I am so glad they found one another to love and cherish and see each other through life’s torrential storms!
I also really enjoyed the gossipy small-town setting of Gallup, Tx, and thought that Ms. Faiman did an exemplary job of depicting the hardships of the working class who struggle to put food on the table and truly live paycheck to paycheck. Furthermore, I especially love how the good-hearted folks in the MCs inner circle always had the H&h’s backs, helping and supporting Channing and Rylan through thick and thin.
So why 4 stars instead of 5? Well, as much as I relished this book, it was not flawless. First and foremost, while I love the steamy chemistry between Ryan and Channing, I do think the author went overboard with the EXCESSIVE amount of sex these two had! Too many scenes of them getting it on amounted to it feeling rather repetitive and I found myself skimming parts, anxious to get back to the tender-hearted romance and the juicy drama. I just felt like there was a bit too much filler on that front at the expense of the story. Also, while there’s no denying that every good small-town romance needs a few dastardly villains, there was an outlandish plot twist at the 65 percent mark involving Channing’s scummy baby daddy, James, and his psychotic wife, Jennifer, that really was a “jump the shark” moment for me. I just could not take it seriously because it was really so preposterous. Thankfully that OTT melodrama resolved itself quickly and we were able to get back to the heart of the story.
And finally, I did feel that the book could have used another round of editing. There were grammatical errors and the author tended to use some of the same expressions over and over again (i.e. “hum” was referenced umpteenth times). And I also felt like some streamlining could have been done to pick up the pace a bit in the second half of the story.
But those pesky quibbles aside, I truly adored CONVICT! This sweet, sexy, second chance story was deeply moving, the HEA made my heart sing, and the manner in which all the drama and abiding love came full circle in the epilogue was beautiful indeed. I was utterly charmed by the town of Gallup and its cast of memorable characters, and hope to see more stories in the Unfit Hero series.
A MUST READ!
Beautiful start to the series. Rylan and Channing were dealt sh*t hand in life then also made bad decisions to top it all off. Channing is from a small town and had a relationship with a married man for two years. Now she has a mark on her name in the town’s eyes. Through all the name calling she endured by the town she held her own and is strong throughout. Rylan has a past full of tragedy and heartbreak and doesn’t want a repeat. When he meets Channing he views it as a chance to start over and all he wants to do is protect her. They are drawn to each other and have amazing chemistry. Will they be able to move on from the labels they were given in the past? I loved this book and can’t wait to see where this series goes!!
For those who follow my reviews know that I love anything Hayley Faiman writes.For us all her books have wonderful character’s that we love and want to hate but, still love them but, most of all they are always intense and emotional and filled with character’s that are broken and some darker then others but, just need to find the only one meant for them to become whole once again.This author’s story this time around was no different as we loved the great character’s she created for us yet again for us to fall in love with.
This story was a very emotional one for all parties involved.I will say that Wyatt was a God send throughout the entire story we really loved him as he was always there when anybody need him,but, most of all he was able to give Ryland a leg up for him to stay on the straight and narrow and in a sense owes him the life he is leading today and all the happiness that comes with it.
Channing we really loved her .She was a brave young lady and my heart went out to her time and time.We found her to be resilient,a bit shy,caring and compassionate,beautiful inside and out but, just one of those character’s you can’t help but love because she is pure sunshine and sweetness.
Ryland Omg! What a hottie! We love the heavily tattooed sexy bad boy who had a sexy swag about him as we as being a sensual lover who had a tortured soul and was broken but, no matter what happiness comes his way he will always be haunted by his past miss deeds.
We loved the story from beginning to end as it was about second chances,healing,forgiveness,making a better life for oneself and meeting the one who is the right one for you who will all make these things possible.The story was filled with tons of drama,suspense,had a few twists and turns as well as a few Omg ! moments you never saw coming.
Overall we loved the story that was placed in a small town and it just a reminder to all that comes with living in one that has pro’s and con’s but, for this couple it was almost impossible for them to move on from their past mistakes because the towns people will always be judging them.If anyone can come beat the odds it was this couple and we were rooting for them and their happiness.This was one hot read! Ryland and Channing made the perfect couple as their chemistry was super hot and there sexual encounters even hotter.Most of all the author created the perfect ending to one heck of an emotional tale.
Recommended read to All!
5 STAR Review by Jodi for Ruby Red Romance Review
When you live in a small town there are no secrets. Poor Channing found that out the hard way. After having a two-year relationship with a married man, she’s now labeled as things she’s not. While Channing may have been young, she was strong and owned up to her sins. She could have been in denial, but she wasn’t. I loved that about her. I hated what she put herself through. When people call you names and “mark” you, you tend to fall into the trap and start to believe them. That was so hard for me, but in the end, she made out just fine.
Rylan has a past. One that will haunt him for the rest of his life. One that ended in disaster and heartbreak. Vowing to never walk that path again, Rylan meets Channing at what could be the best time, for both of them. Rylan sees Channing as someone he can protect. He sees her as his chance to do right. They try to fight it…but there is no denying what is there. It’s hard to deny the truth.
I loved this book. I must admit, I’m newer to Hayley Faiman. I loved this story. I loved how developed the characters were. The interaction between them made me feel like it was watching it all happen around me. I loved falling in love with Rylan and Channing and can’t wait to see what’s to come.
This was a new to me author, and one I would definitely like to read more of.
She manages to make these characters relatable and has written the book as if you are right there beside them. Their struggles and successes became yours, you don’t often get that in books.
Reminded me of that childhood saying about sticks and stones, although we all know words do hurt.
Rylan Lindsay seems to have a sad existence. Also sad is the stigma he now has to carry around with him. Channing Shephard has been taken advantage of by someone she trusted. This is something that happens even in real life.
What makes this story so believable is how a man wants to turn his life around. He has decided that he doesn’t want to go back to a life he once had. Enter Channing, a woman who needs a knight in shining armor – I don’t think she minded if there was a chink in that armor. The author gives them an instant connection that builds as the story goes on.
Our author shows that people make mistakes. But we are the ones that have to show that those mistakes do not define who we are. What took me away from the main characters was a pair of minimal characters that I wanted to see get their just desserts. It was almost like they didn’t want us to forget them so they just had to come back and let us know they were still around. I always wanted to live in a small town but not sure if I could stand all the drama – sounds like something you’d see on TV.
What brought me back to our main characters was the heat you would see every time they were in each other’s space – prepare for plenty of steam. Rylan certainly knows how to care for a woman. Channing is young and having to deal with a lot but I don’t know if she’d be as strong if not for him. This is something else that makes this story seem so plausible. I can’t honestly say that the ending is an HEA but it certainly ends in seeing our main characters together. I didn’t get the impression that there was a period at the end of their story.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Convict is Book 1 in Hayley Faiman’s new Unfit Hero’s Series. Hayley has outdone herself yet again!!
This book is about two broken souls trying to find healing in one another and love. You can’t help but find yourself rooting for Rylan & Channing. Rylan is fresh out of prison & is determined to build a life different from his past. Channing is trying to create a life for her unborn child after having been exposed in an affair with a married man, & the town won’t let her forget it.
Rylan & Channing complement each other in their areas of weakness and find a love that is worth fighting everyone for. A great love story that will keep you turning the pages & unable to put it down! Definitely one of the best books I’ve read this year! I am so excited for Book 2!
Convict is my first Hayley Faiman book and it won’t be my last! Convict is filled with small town gossip, forbidden romance, and insta-attraction. All tied up with an unexpected twist! The writing is clean and straightforward.
Ryland Lindsay has done his time and he is fresh out of prison. He is consumed with guilt over his crime. With the help of his cousin, Wyatt, Ryland is trying to be a better man, make a better life. It is hard to do when you had no examples while growing up.
“I’m an ex-con, I’m a criminal, I’m guilty, and I am a murderer. To some, I am evil and deserve to rot in a cell.”
Channing Shephard is a young, small town waitress. Forbidden romance has left her in a situation. She is kind, selfless and trying to do what is right, to stay strong. She meets Ryland at the diner she works in and the attraction is there. Ryland is nothing like her last “boyfriend.” Their pasts have defined them but their future is wide open. Can they make it work?
“One damaged soul, attracted to another.”
A great start to the new Unfit Hero series. I really enjoyed reading Ryland and Channing’s story. Ryland is HOT! There were a lot of sexy times!! And he is working so hard to be a better man! Channing is sweet and kind. She is trying to overcome many obstacles as well. I love the bits of internal dialogue that Ryland and Channing had while trying to work out a problem or trying to deal with their insecurities and self-doubt. It was perfect. A great way to get inside of their head and see their feelings. Up next – Wyatt’s story! Can’t wait!
“Two shattered hearts. Two shattered souls. Two broken people coming together to hold onto one another. To love one another.”
4 stars!
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Wow. This book was everything I was hoping for after I read the blurb. It was raw, unfiltered and beautiful. Channing and Rylan were two unlikely characters who found a deep and sentimental love despite their pasts and even present. Could be a small spoiler but I love how struggled. Not only for their love but just in life in general. I know that sounds bad but hear me out.
I’m so many romance novels money always seems to make things better and bad HEA but these characters struggled and worked hard for everything. I loved seeing that rawness. It was real and very much unexpected but much welcomed. I love when a book feels so real that you could see it really happening. These characters went though a lot and both were so accepting that it made me reevaluate how I do things.
All the characters were great. Not only Channing who was overcoming not only her present but also coming to terms with her present, but also Rylan who is trying to make a better life and overcome his past. All the secondary characters were also an amazing addition to the story and world the author built. I hope we at-least get 2 more book with these characters. I can’t wait to see what is next. 5 stars #2OCCJD
5 Stars
Intense, heartbreaking, real and definitely not your typical love story…this is the best way I can begin to describe this book. Hayley Faiman has created a group of characters that could be anyone you have ever met, a group of people who have come from average or difficult backgrounds and struggle with everyday situations as adults. Channing and Rylan have both come from extremely bad childhoods but are now trying to make the best out of horrible situations they have wound up in as adults. Rylan is the ultimate anti-hero and you will find yourself constantly rooting for him. Channing is the naive girl who gets herself into trouble that winds up bigger than she imagined. This book is phenomenal and I cannot wait for more!
Cara – Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
This is the first time I have read anything by Hayley Faiman and I thought that this book was well put together. Rylan and Channing, the convict and the homewrecker are labels that have been applied to them. Two broken people who found each other when they both were trying to start over. I enjoyed the way the characters interacted and the friends they made along the way that proved that labels do not define who you are and that you can rise above your past. I will be sure to read more from this author.
Rylan and Channing both have made poor decisions in life, but are attempting to turn their lives around together, all while dealing with demons from their past. They both have been dealt a crappy hand in life and you can’t help but feel sympathetic towards the two characters in regard to their misfortunes and hardships. They go against all odds to overcome their adversities to find happiness and love.
Convict is an atypical contemporary romance suspense story. I liked the concept and the design of this story, and the dramatic quest is challenging. Rylan and Channing’s story is melodramatic filled with spice and turmoil. The storyline was interesting and the characters relatable. The characters have a connection that brings the story together. The story was a bit lighter than I expected when dealing with this type of theme, but it was still a satisfying read.
We meet Rylan whose been released from prison after 5 years for vehicular manslaughter. Rylan starts working as a lineman with his cousin, Wyatt. Channing has a two year affair with her teacher, James who says he’ll leave his wife for her but doesn’t. Jennifer, James’s wife is also pregnant. This was my first book by Ms.Faiman and I absolutely loved it. I loved loved all the characters especially Channing and Rylan. This was such a twisty dark mind screw and I loved it. Highly recommend
Another amazing story by Hayley Faiman Convict has to be my favorite by the author and I can’t wait to read more of these characters so want the next book in the Unfit hero series . Loved the connection that the hero and heroine shared just by one glance they new it was something special but thought they weren’t good enough for the other . Both Rylan and Channing had a bad past they were scarred by one or more things in their past . The first time these two give into temptation it was fire they really burned up my kindle with how steamy the sex scenes were . Oh my gosh the epilogue was bitter sweet my heart hurt for some one but also grew with how the couple ended up . If you are new to the author you really need to get her books as soon as possible you wont regret it and if you are a fan this is already in your kindles (Wink ) .
copy provided for honest review
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hero=10 heroine=10 secondary characters= 10
Chemistry=10 steam=9 romance=10
humor=3 darkness level= 4 action= 4 mystery=4
enjoyment=10 angst=3 story line=10 Story ending=10
character development=10 pacing=10
cover=10 Blurb =10 Stars =5
Is this part of a series =yes
Can it be read as a standalone = yes first one in the series
would I recommend this book=yes
would I re read this book= yes
would I read future books by this author= yes
After serving the full 5 years he was sentenced to, Rylan returns home to Gallup, Texas. He has nothing but a cousin who loves him and gets him a job working at the construction company he works at. On the company weekly lunch at the local diner, Rylan meets Channing, a girl with her own messy past that is just starting to fall down on her and he is instantly drawn to her. Despite his cousin, Wyatt, warning him to stay away as he has his own issues to deal with without worrying about Channing’s, he just can’t do it. Can he find a way to help Channing and also help himself by doing so? Are the feelings he gets for Channing real, or is she just a way to soothe his soul after what he did to end up in prison?
This is the first non-MC book of Hayley’s I have read and while I find the story to be good, it wasn’t quite the “awesome!” I usually feel when I finish her books. It had the drama, the romance and the bedroom action, and the characters were good, but it just wasn’t quite what I like. I think it was a little softer than I was expecting if that makes sense. All in all though, I enjoyed it and I liked it, I just didn’t love it. I give Convict 4 stars.
Rylan and Channing have both made mistakes but they’re now trying to be better than they were. They’re trying to have a better life than what they had. They have people trying to still tear them down no matter what.
The chemistry between these two is hot, they try not act on it but it’s just too much. These two are great together they’ll fight for what they have now. They know what it’s like to not have someone beside you fighting for you and they’re not going to let that happen now.
I love damaged heroes and Rylan fits that bill for me! Loving this new series!!
Wow, this book was a great start to a new series!!!
Rylan has just been released from prison. He has not had the best life because of actions that his parents take because of their actions he turned to what he knew. When he gets out of prison he has everything to make his life self-destruct.
Channing is young, naive waitress. She did not have the best upbringing either and is in the process of continuing the cycle of her life.
When the two of them come together we see that broken pieces that come together can help heal. This book was a heart wrenching, soul searching story!!
I can’t wait for the next book.
New series from Hayley Faiman and I am already a huge fan and excited for the next book! Rylan and Channing’s story was one that a lot of people can relate to in regards to the crap hands they were given in life, but then also made bad decisions partially due to that as well. The bad decisions both of them made come to a head and together they are able to navigate life past those decisions and make the realization that they need to turn things around. Rylan and Channing save each other in different ways, and they are able to stay accountable through each other. The compassion I felt reading this story was rolling off of me with each page I read, and the supporting characters made the story that much better. In true Hayley fashion, the twist at the end threw me a little because I was not expecting it, and overall it was another great read! As always, I’m a huge fan of Hayley’s writing style and the flow of her books, and I’m excited to see which character she will write next in this series! I have a feeling this series will become a fan favorite just based on how relatable these characters are because of their damage.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.