Book Review for A MAN YOU CAN TRUST by Jo McNally

She doesn’t need a man

But she could use a friend

When the new director of security, Nick West, arrives at Gallant Lake Resort, Cassie Smith’s carefully protected life is turned upside down.

The handsome ex-cop insists on teaching her self-defense, and as Cassie learns she can indeed make it on her own, she starts wondering if she wants to!

​But when Cassie’s safety is threatened, she must choose: continue running from her past…or take a stand for a brighter future.

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A heartfelt story of the consequences of domestic violence, the ripple effects it can have in the community, and how learning to live again is possible if a long and difficult journey for all involved. 
There is this wholesome, solid vibe in the tale, the small community it is located in, and the people in the center of it. I loved the meddling friends and family, their support and loyalty, their curiosity and cheerful spirits. 
Cassie Smith is a capable, smart, and sassy as she comes out of her protective shell she was forced to built to protect herself. She has secrets and for reasons is shying away from people, but the new man in the resort is not allowing her to hide, and the sparks are flying, all possible kinds. 
I liked the energy and connection between Cassie and Nick, there was a fragile attraction but even more than that, there was a genuine friendship building in between them, no matter how much they fought against it. Nick is loud, funny, friendly, and outdoorsy, everything opposite to Cassie, yet they find a way to compromise, and learn to spread their interest as they dare to new challenges. 
This was a sweet story about healing and finding your way again, finding your strength after being shattered. It has lessons of learning to forgive yourself, letting your past be history, instead of constant present hinderance of joy and love in your life. 
An engaging and inspiring tale of life and love
~ Four Spoons

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I write the same kind of romances I like to read - stories about people facing real-life challenges with real-life consequences. The stories are emotional and character-driven. 

I live in coastal North Carolina with 100 pounds of dog and 200 pounds of husband - my slice of the bed is very small. When I'm not writing or reading romance novels (or clinging to the edge of the bed...), I can often be found on the back porch sipping wine with friends while listening to great music. If the weather is absolutely perfect, I might join my husband on the golf course, where I always feel far more competitive than my actual skill-level would suggest.

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