I loved him before I knew what the word meant. From skinned knees to first dates and everything in between. But he was never mine to love. I settled for friendship, even though I always wanted more. That was before. Before he ripped my world apart and didn’t bother sticking around to help me pick up the pieces. I knit every last shred back together all on my own. And I’ve all but forgotten his …
And I’ve all but forgotten his name.
Now, he’s back, and everything is torn apart once more.
But he’s not the only one doing the tearing this time.
And there might be no stopping the person who has it out for us both.
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Absolutely loved this book..the heartbreak, suspense and love had me at the first couple chapters. I couldnt put it down I had to find out who and what was going to happen with Ford and Bell. Such a amazing store can’t wait to get ahold of the next book! A must read
I really enjoyed this book. It gave me all the feels. Can’t wait for the next book.
Another incredible book written by Catherine Cowles who has a way with words! This book is now my number 1 favourite!
It was very difficult to put this book down from the first page till the last. Bell and Ford’s story is so incredibly heartwarming that it will stay with you for a while!
I love this book so much and I can’t recommend it enough! Cannot wait for the others!
Reckless Memories
The Wrecked Series, Book 1
By: Catherine Cowles
Narrated by: Andi Arndt, Joe Arden
When a book can both break your heart and put it back together, you know it is a good one! Catherine Cowles has written an amazing story that does just this! Reckless Memories is a story of loss, pain, redemption and love and brings everything full circle. Ford, Violet and Bell are a childhood trio until the unthinkable happens. Now years later, Ford returns to town to help his family’s bar from going out of business and finds Bell there. Their bond from childhood still in place despite the circumstances cannot be extinguished and now there is the possibility of more. Or is there? This complex story has so many twists and turn, and emotional pulls that I could not stop listening. I was intrigued by Bell. She is not only pretty, but she is smart and talented! Ford carries a lot of weight on his shoulders, but we can see the man he is and chooses to be. Add in a little suspense and a twist that makes you cringe and worry, and this story has it all! It’s original and I absolutely loved it.
Andi Arndt and Joe Arden are magnificent in their narration of this story. These consummate professionals make Ford and Bell real. They have our hearts with and pull us into the story with all the emotions and all the love. This team does an incredible job and creates a world for us to escape in!
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I won this book in a giveaway, and let me tell you… if I hadn’t won it, I would have bought it! As my first book by Catherine Cowles I was unsure what to expect. I have no familiarity with her writing and was eager to pick up this gorgeous story. LOOK AT THAT COVER!
I was immediately lulled into a false sense of security from page one. Bell is a misunderstood young teen who longs for her best friend and her sister’s boyfriend. I was ultimately shattered when everything that matters to Bell is ripped from her hands and she is forced to live a life without two people who she loves above all others. When Ford Hardy, her long lost best friend returns to Anchor, all those forbidden feelings resurface. Faced with anger, pain, betrayal, and lust, Bell must must face the truth of what she is feeling, what really happened and learn to overcome her pain.
Ford is the quintessential brokenhearted, tortured man forced to return home to a place that stole all his happiness. Seeing Bell sparks life back into his lonely being. For the first time in forever he experiences feelings of longing and attachment to the one person he never expected to lust after –– his best friend. The sister of his dead girlfriend.
These two have been circling around in their lives, searching for something. Searching for their bond, their comfort, and ultimately, their undeniable spark. The slow burn that ensued between these two had be fanning my face and racing through these pages to experience their fiery connection. When they finally gave into the flames I was NOT disappointed!
Reckless Memories sent me through a riptide of emotions. My heart has been shattered, stomped on, repaired and then burst all within the hours it took me to consume it. My amazon cart is currently overflowing with all of Catherine Cowles’ novels because I cannot wait to devour more of her words.
The wrecked series is the perfect title for series. This book tore me apart. The depth of their love was so clear early on and they were ripped apart. I was so happy how they re-grew their relationship. This book was AMAZING!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Fabulous Story & Audible Listen Captivating & Heartfelt!
Reckless Memories
The Wrecked Series, Book 1
By: Catherine Cowles
Narrated by: Andi Arndt, Joe Arden
I loved everything about this book, from Catherine Cowles’ wonderful writing style to the fabulous story and characters she created to the perfectly casted and performed narration. This is my first Catherine Cowles book and it definitely will not be my last. The storylines she created are interesting and original, they captured my attention right from the start and held it straight to the end. The characters are complex and well developed, they are realistic, likable and easy to relate to. I adored the two leads Isabelle aka Bell and Ford, Ford dated her older sister, Violet and even though she was a few years younger than him they shared a great bond, she felt he was the only one who really understood her. Violet did not really get Isabelle but she accepted her the way she was, she wishes her parents did too but her parents only wanted her to be more like Violet, whom they had placed on a pedestal. Tragedy tears the three apart and life was not the same. Years later Ford is a successful owner of several bars in L.A. he hasn’t had the heart to return home since the tragedy. But when his brother, Hunter, calls to tell him he needs to come home to help with “The Catch” the family’s bar he agrees to go. He did not know “Bell” worked there and she did not know he was coming home. Their first meeting did not go so well, there is a lot of angst between them and they need to work it out. I love how everything plays out in this book, the small town vibe, the great camaraderie amongst friends, how Bell deals with her bitter mother and most of all Ford and Bell opening up to each other, she has issues trusting him to not leave does not come easy, also there is someone out to get her and/or Hunter. The story is beautifully plotted and there is never a dull moment with plenty of drama, angst, a twist leading to some thrilling and suspenseful moments, some great heartfelt moments and wonderful romance. Thank you Catherine Cowles for this beautiful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
I listened to the Audible edition, Andi Arndt and Joe Arden are awesome, they are talented narrators and voice artists. They do an amazing job portraying the characters, bringing them to life giving each their own voice and personality. You could hear how much heart they put into their work as they capture and project the characters emotions into their performance. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another fabulous listen
Reckless Memories is a sweet, super emotional, super angsty story. It is a tale full of hope for second chances and redemption.
Bell lost her sister and her best friend on the same day. She remained in her hometown and is now years later getting her life on track when Ford suddenly shows up.
Ford still needs to deal with and bury ghosts of the past that he shares with Isabelle, but will he be too late to protect Bell when past meets present?
I listened to this story on audiobook and the narration was great. I couldn’t shut it off and listened all in one day!
-4.5 Stars!-
Catherine Cowles had me all over the place with emotions. This book was everything! I loved the way Bell was with Ford and how she forgave him but he did have to earn her trust. Bell and Ford had a best friend relationship for most of her childhood. After some unforeseen circumstances Bell and Ford finally get together. I won’t say what happens because it all part of the suspense. It was an emotionally charged story they left me wanting to know more about the other characters. Looking forward to the next book.
What a great story! I loved Reckless Memories! The story was well written and flowed perfectly. Catherine hit this book out of the park. This book was full of emotion and so many feels: feelings of angst, passion, heartbreak, forgiveness, hope, and love. The author really knows how to make you feel like you are right there with the characters.
The characters were perfect for each other. Ford is OMG hot and my feelings for Bell are so sincere. She has been through so much throughout her life. It is time to get her life back on track.
Reckless Memories is the first book in the Wrecked series. I cannot wait to get my hands on the second book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author.
Reckless Memories is the first in a new series by Catherine Cowles. The main characters, Ford and Bell, were friends for a long time until they weren’t. He abandoned her in a serious time of need and she’s been shattered ever since.
This book will stir up some emotions. It’s definitely one that will tug at your heartstrings. Not in a bad way either. These two deserve their HEA. They’ve been through so much not only with each other but other people’s hate slung at them as well.
Everything I can think of to tell you about this book it’s a spoiler. Just note that these two were close friends. A *major* incident happened and they parted ways by no doing of their own. I know that make no sense but read the book and it will. So then they meet again. It’s like a second change. A coming home.
Definitely give this one a try. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Another great suspense filled romance from Catherine Cowles! A little bit second chance mixed with forbidden love, this one will keep you guessing. Very excited for more of this series!
SPOILERS AHEAD
This book was just not for me.
Like so the sister dies and then a few years late you meet the MG and have feelings for her and then you realize all this time that you loved her more than her sister who was his girlfriend at that time and died right after he said I Love You.
And then apparently the sister always knew the MG and the hero were in love with one another and was going to breakup with the dude so that they could be together. But then she died. So yeah. This basically sums up the entire story plot.
I mean if you are fine with such plots then you should read it because the book was written well. But I just can’t stomach this troop.
A new series by Catherine Cowles? HECK YES! I always prepare myself before diving into a novel by this author because I know once I start it’s going to grip my heart and keep me inside of it. And that totally happened with this story. Right away I loved Bell. She was fiesty and rebellious and refused to be someone she wasn’t. Ford was the hero friend and I wanted them together. Tragedy hit quick and I’ll be honest, I wasn’t prepared for it. It grasped my heart and I was in it with these characters. Years go by for them with no contact. Bell is moving on with her life while attempting to live with the memories. Ford shut out that part of his life. But he has to come back to help his family. The family that was there for Bell when he wasn’t. There is so much resentment from her that I didn’t know if these two could ever get in a good place. That’s what I love about this author. She never writes a predictable story. I had no clue how this was going to go and she really threw in a surprise. Can we talk about crowning her queen of romantic suspense please?! This book hit me in all the feels. It satisfied that friends to lovers, second chance addiction I have. And I can’t wait for more in this series. Bonus for all you readers who have loved her books from the start, did Ford sound familiar? This is must read romance! If you have never read Catherine Cowles, this is a good place to start. I guarantee you’ll be picking up her past books after you experience a story from her. Epic as usual.
Reckless Memories is my first book by Catherine Cowles and let me tell you I am completely hooked. I absolutely LOVED this book! Deeply emotional, gut-wrenchingly beautiful, heartfelt with a dash of suspense, this small town, friends to lovers romance took me on a whirlwind. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would.
Bell and Ford’s story is one of grieving, of letting go of guilt, and moving forward. You could feel the pain felt by both Bell and Ford. Not only for the loss of someone they both cared for deeply but also for the friendship that ended after that incident. As they started rebuilding their friendship and once their relationship changed, Bell and Ford’s chemistry was undeniable. I loved the way they spoke to each other with so much honesty and protectiveness.
This friends to lovers is one that could have easily gone wrong quickly. It’s one that could be tricky to pull off because of the forbidden element involved. However, Catherine Cowles mastered it flawlessly.
As I mentioned before, this is my first book by this author. But, I know it won’t be my last. I’ve already downloaded her entire backlist. And, I’m very much looking forward to reading more from her. I’m officially obsessed.
Every single read that I have read from Catherine has been addicting to me. I could not put down my kindle. Literally from the first page to the last, hooked. She has a way of weaving these stories that have a way of working their way into your heart, like a virtual hug. They touch you and stay with you after you have finished them.
The story of Ford and Isabelle was a sweet story but with a bumpy road. Isabelle has always had a crush on Ford since they were young. Despite the crush they were good friends, the best of friends. But something happens one day, a tragic accident that sends Ford away for years. But years later when he comes home, it throws Isabelle’s life upside down. She is trying to hard to forget the hurt, and he is trying so hard to get her forgiveness.
I cannot tell you how good this story was guys. Their journey, the struggle, love, chemistry, history, and forgiveness just hits you right in the heart. I would recommend Reckless Memories in a heartbeat.
I don’t remember who told me to pick up a Catherine Cowles book a few months ago but I am so glad I listened. Holy wow! Reckless Memories hooked me from the gut wrenching opening and kept me hooked until the very last page.
I liked that Ford swallowed his guilt and pride and came back when his family really needed him. It wasn’t easy. He carried a lot of regret and pain from that night and facing it wasn’t on his radar. But it didn’t take long for him to start to shed that remorse. A lot of that had to do with Bell.
I adored Bell. Her free spirit. Her strength. Her kindness. The family she had built for herself after tragedy nearly destroyed her. And how when Ford rolled back into town she didn’t welcome him with open arms. As much as her heart longed for their friendship she couldn’t let the pain of losing him go. But Ford was determined to make up for his mistakes and work he did.
However, not everyone was as happy with how things were playing out between the old friends. And as they grew closer, the threats that had seemed idle started escalating. With so many possible culprits, Ford went into protective mode. But it wasn’t enough…
Talk about the most unexpected of twists! Kudos Catherine Cowles. I didn’t see it coming at all. Nobody did and that it what made it so brilliant. My heart was racing! I could feel the desperation, the anger, the torment, the fear as those tense moments played out. But that ending more than made up for it. Reckless Memories was a dynamic and pulse pounding start to what is sure to be an excellent series. And I for one can not wait to go back to the Island!
WHAT A STORY! The book I didn’t know I wanted, but needed from Catherine. After her previous series that I fell in love with, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this new one, but I quickly realized how far my expectations were surpassed. Isabelle has always been at odds with her parents (her mother in particular), and her safe haven was with her sister’s boyfriend Ford. They had a connection and bond that was unlike any other. After tragedy struck for both Ford and Isabelle, Ford retreats at the advice of Isabelle’s parents and starts his life over states away. But ten years later, he is needed at home and reluctantly agrees. Isabelle has forged her own life after the accident and lives in her own terms. When she finds out that Ford has returned home, she’s upset but not for the reason he thinks. As they continue to interact, the truth finally comes out in the open and they not only get back to their friendship, but realize there’s something more. All the while, we find out someone is terrorizing Isabelle with the memory of her sister, and as the relationship with Ford escalates, so does the person terrorizing her. I absolutely love a suspenseful romance book, and this one is at the top of the list for me. I didn’t see it coming who was behind the terrorizing and kidnapping of Isabelle, and I was floored when I found out! I absolutely loved and adored this book and I can’t wait to see what comes next from this series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Once again Catherine Cowles writes an amazing book. This is a brand new series and OMG I couldn’t stop reading.
There were so many emotions going through my head As I read this amazing book. The mystery and suspense had me turning the page.
Bell, the young girl her mother kept wanting to change. It broke my heart how her relationship with mother was. She was never “perfect” enough. At the age of 16 a tragic accident changed her life. The one person she needed by her side left.
Ford was dating Bell’s sister. He had a great friendship with Bell. She may have had a childhood crush on him but she knew he loved her sister. Ford left Anchor Island after an accident that changed their life and didn’t look back.
Will they both work through their pain and guilt do what happened? Will Ford come back to Anchor?
The emotions and how well these characters are developed will make you feel as if you’re in the book with them.
Catherine is amazing writer and I can’t wait for more books from her.
Can I give a book more than 5 stars? Because this book deserves way more than 5 stars!!!
Reckless Memories is the first book in the Wrecked series by Catherine Cowles, this book was everything. Ford and Belle are two broken people who have lost and hidden so much from those around them.
I literally cried with this book, Belle was the strongest and most amazing character in this book. I seriously loved what she does when she sees Ford again.() Ford is everything as well, he is so misunderstood, but his heart is the biggest. I love jealous Ford btw.
This book was seriously epic, add this to your TBR and do not miss out on this book that will give you ALL THE FEELS!!!