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Review: Healing the Hero - Heroes of Freedom Ridge #3

Healing the Hero book cover on blue background

It must be a good sign if I can dive into the next book in a series without hesitation, as I did with Healing the Hero by Elle E. Kay, the third book in the Heroes of Freedom Ridge series.

Book Synopsis

A dream job. A dreamier boss.

Ashley Castle jumps at a chance to show off her skills as head chef when she lands the job at Liberty Grille in the Freedom Ridge Resort. Before long, she develops a full-blown crush on her boss but ignores her growing feelings. Nothing can happen as long as his nightmare ex-girlfriend remains in the picture, so she keeps her focus on work.

Restaurant Manager, Daniel Winchester hires Ashley and can’t help but be drawn to the new hire. If it weren’t for her faith in a God he stopped trusting while serving in Iraq, he could fall for her. He can’t let that happen, though.

When Ashley overhears a sinister plot, she’s torn between revealing it, which will mean risking her job if Daniel doesn’t believe her, and keeping it to herself. Daniel has a chance to overcome his demons, but will he take the risk and discover love in the process or bury the betrayal beneath his wit and charm once again?

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

This sweet workplace romance set amidst different perils made for a suspenseful read that kept me guessing who the culprit could be all throughout. Coupled with this mystery, this book provided a glimpse into the culinary world, whetting my appetite for intricately prepared menus and some dessert with Daniel and Ashley! It also brought attention to the dangers around cross-contamination for people suffering from allergies, so as someone in this boat, it was refreshing to specifically come across that in a story. With all the talk of food, this book left me hungry—in a good way—and hoping to read more from Elle E. Kay down the road.

I also appreciated that Healing the Hero not only examines what it is like to go through physical and emotional trauma, but spiritual trauma as well. Daniel's journey and his spiritual growth as a result was inspiring to read, and I am so grateful that the author took the time to include a full Gospel presentation as part of the book. Healing that comes from Christ is healing that lasts, which Daniel and Ashley experience in their story. The prayers that are shared are earnest and heartfelt, and it is encouraging to see the characters develop as they gain new spiritual understanding and walk in their faith.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 📱
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍

Book Quotes

He'd pushed God from his life, but she'd subtly brought the Lord into nearly every conversation they had. If he'd opened his heart sooner, he might've heard God's gentle voice before everything spiraled out of control.

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