embattled hearts j.m. Madden

John Palmer hasn’t felt like a real man since he was injured during combat in Iraq. Though not content with his new life, he is mostly adapting, just like the other vets at the Lost ‘N’ Found Investigative Service. When Shannon Murphy is hired on as the new office manager, life suddenly gets a lot more interesting. Before long, John finds himself wondering if he could ever be the kind of man Shannon needs.
Shannon Murphy wasn’t really looking for love when she hired on at LNF, but finds herself hopelessly attracted to the sex-on-wheels former Marine, John Palmer. The man is grumpy and nearly impossible to work with, but his brand of masculinity appeals to her on a basic level. Soon Shannon is wondering just what it would take for John to want her the way she wants him.
When an old enemy tries to settle a vendetta against Shannon, John insists on protecting her. He moves into her house, fanning the spark of attraction into a blaze. But the danger continues to escalate. Even with all the resources at their disposal, they’re thrust into a fight for their lives.


Well written and touching story. The author has such a talent with words, I could be in tears, and suddenly burst into laugh while reading it.

John's inner turmoil, to accept to be worthy of Shannon's love, to overcome the anger of the rejection of his mother, and the injuries he got in the war, is constant. Shannon is faced with demons from her own past, while trying to convince John, he is worthy of happiness, love, and normalcy. When they finally come together, it is breathtakingly beautiful and tender, very intense and passionate.

The tension from the threat from Shannon's past is build through the story. The suspense keeps a hold of the reader, while the culprits play with the minds of the characters, as well as the readers.
The brotherhood, loyalty, and respect for each other with the former servicemen is commendable.

There were few tiny editorial mistakes, but overall very satisfying read, memorable story, 4*.

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