The Delight

In a nutshell, the delight is simply any book by Claudia Connor. Her books are always heartwarming without being namby-pamby and keep me turning pages delighted with each one. This one features a commitment shy fireman and a nurse with a baby who just wants to start over in a new city.

Review

Zach Walker is a super fit fireman-the kind with abs for days. He’s also a former womanizer and is charming as the day is long. Nora Sellers is new to the area and works in a hospital ER. It’s inevitable that Zach and Nora would someday meet, but it’s certainly not inevitable for them to fall in love. Both have issues, most notably Nora’s ten month old baby, Will. On Zach’s part, he just doesn’t trust enough to ever settle down. Things that happened in his past haunt him. He’s the heartthrob of the fire station, and is also a bit older and higher in rank than his fellow co-workers. Nora is starting over with her baby after leaving the father who wanted nothing to do with her or the baby. He’s a real winner. But that’s okay because she never really loved him and would pick Will over him every day of the week.

This is a fairly simple story, one that tells a love story to the readers and I simply enjoyed the ride. In addition to falling for the two main characters, I also fell for the baby, Will. Connor’s use of children in several of her previous books as well as this one has always been a welcome addition in any of her work. I enjoyed not only watching the couple fall in love, but also seeing Zach fall in love with Will. Other characters from previous books are almost all featured and it’s always fun catching up with characters you already know and care about. In this case, Zach’s sister Hannah becomes a friend to Nora. Hannah has her own book and also had the most harrowing journey of any of the McKinney/Walker family members. Her story, Worth the Risk, goes beyond heartwarming to heartbreaking(with a HEA)and I highly recommend that one as well. Actually I recommend them all! The camaraderie of the firefighters was a big part of the story as well. Several of them become a big part of the action and are very well realized by the author. I wouldn’t mind a book about some of them.

Did I mention that these books are pretty steamy as well? Well they are, but not to the erotica extent. That was a plus for me. I’m not a fan of extreme erotica, but I don’t mind a good book with steamy scenes. And there’s a suitable build up to that part which is another good thing about this story. The scenes do not take the place of story or become just filler to the book.

I love Connor’s storytelling ability and always, with no exceptions, end up enjoying her work. Of course, there is more to the story than I mentioned, but I will leave that up to other readers to explore and more importantly, enjoy as I did. I can’t recommend these two series(McKinney’s and Walkers) enough to adult readers that are fans of contemporary romance. We waited two years for this book, so here’s hoping that the next book featuring Zach’s brother, Luke, comes along sooner than that. While we have only heard about him prior to this, we finally met him in this book, so I am more than ready for his story. 4.25 stars!

Books like this one are why Claudia Connor is one of the top names on my list of authors to follow.

Nora has a lot on her plate being a single mom in a new town with a house that that is in desperate need of repair. Zach at first just wants to help her when she in injured in front of him but somehow he cannot stay away. Neither of them are looking for a relationship. Nora has some well deserved trust issues and Zach is not sure he has enough to offer. However they cannot stop growing closer.

This is a perfectly paced story about two people developing feelings for each. They do not rush into anything and are careful of their own and each other's hearts. I loved both Nora and Zach (ok fine- especially Zach but who can honestly resist a sweet firefighter and picturing him walking around a BBQ holding a baby was pretty swoonworthy) and just really enjoyed reading a well written, low angst book.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Must say that Zach was not the brother I wanted to read next. Last book the impression I had was he was a whore. Not sure how I care that his character has changed or are we to think he hasn’t been like that for a while. And if so, why????????? Not a fan when authors change up their characters.

The brothers.... I wanted more!!!! Where was Dallas and Luke??? We got like 5 minutes with him!

Loved July 4th, I just wish there were more scenes with our fave characters and less with the Fireman crew.

Will, loved his and Zach’s relationship

Claudia Connor is one of my top 5 and favorite authors. I have read and re-read all of her books a few times already. So I had some expectations for this but THAT WERE MET & SOME!

Zach Walker was here and there in the previously published books. I always wondered about him and hoped he would get a story, when I found out he would IT WAS LIKE CHRISTMAS FOR ME! I will say that you can read this as a stand alone, although the previous books are equally freaking awesome that i'd definitely suggest reading from the beginning.

Zach Walker is the brother of Hannah, and a dedicated hard working firefighter lieutenant. Zach is tall, handsome and good with the ladies. He doesn't have to try hard due to his position and profession alone, helps. When Zach escorts a drunk-driver from the scene, he leaves for one second and everything happens.

Nora is a ER nurse that just moved there. Her job is new, new life is new. Being a mother for an almost one year old, she had her plate full. When the very same patient that came with with Zach attacks her, she not only keeps her cool but catches the eye of the sexy firefighter that came to her rescue.

What started off as a friendship and a kind gesture from Zach, seems to be turning into something that just seems natural. Sadly Zach harbors feelings and fear and so SO MUCH regret from his childhood, is it even possible to over-come that? Well, all i can say is that Nora may be an only child, but she knows how to be there for a person more than anything. With her own hang-up's about her father, she struggles daily to understand what is happening between Zach and her. Watch this beautiful story morph into a lot of fun, sexual tension, passion and love. Zach is strong and alpha but with a heart of gold and Nora, sweet Nora...she tries to be strong...on the outside but on the inside she may be more broken than anyone. Beautiful story, amazing writing and I want to say something else but I don't do spoilers so, gotta read this!

5 PLUS RATING & HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
T O P 2019 M U S T R E A D!

4 stars
I love re-entering the McKinney/Walker world with all of the fun family dynamics and interesting characters. This is Zach Walker's story. He is a firefighter and enjoys helping people. He has an easygoing personality, but he has been scarred by events in his past and has never thought that he would be a relationship guy or a father. He actually has a rep as a ladies man and not being too serious. But deep down he is not sure he is good enough or can handle the commitment.

Nora Sellers is a single mom to a baby and ER nurse that is new in town. After a minor accident in the ER, Zach feels guilty and checks on her. And when he sees how much work her house needs and how she is struggling, his protective instincts kick in. But as he pushes his way into her life to help her out, neither expected the smoldering chemistry and attraction to pull them towards each other.

But Nora is fiercely independent and always has had to be. She has her priorities and a hot romance is not on her to do list. And Zach is not even sure if he is up for the challenge. But they still can't stop thinking about each other.

And that McKinney/Walker family and his fire crew all enjoy butting into their business and encouraging it. I loved getting more with all of them. They truly are one big extended family that bring fun, support, and unsolicited advice to the table.

Will Zach find that the things he never thought he wanted are the things he truly needs to be happy? And of so, can he convince an independent, untrusting woman to give him a real chance?

This is a sweet, slow burn friends-to-lovers story. It was enjoyable, but for some reason it took me a long time to read. I am not sure if it was just my own distractibility, or that the story was a bit slower and less angsty. But I did really like both Zach and Nora, and little Will was adorable. Both were a little broken, and neither of them were looking for love, but sometimes the unexpected happens. I enjoyed being immersed in this family again. This one brings back the elusive brother, Luke, so I am looking forward to a story for him, and hoping someday we get more with brother Dallas who is truly an enigma.

NOTE: Will be posted on blog and social media on release and links will be updated at that time

What an incredibly sweet story! I have had some amazing luck with the books I’ve read this far and Waiting For You was a sweet, feel-good, heartwarming and swoon-worthy romance. Nora and Zach had incredible chemistry. Even though both felt that connection, they each had incredibly valid reasons for being hesitant. With Nora being such an independent person, she knows that not relying on someone is better than being let down or disappointed. And Zach is an incredible caregiver and protector, but if he keeps his distance and avoids being relied upon he can avoid the fear of disappointing them. Two peas in a pod. Don’t you think? This just left me feeling all gooey by the end. A perfect read when you’re in the mood for an easy and not too sweet love story. Nothing about this story was overly heavy with its story line. It was perfectly balanced to deliver a realistic and entertaining story of modern day love.

This was my first book by this author and I absolutely loved it. I adored these characters and the story line. I loved Zach and how he wanted to help take care of Nora and Will. He was always doing things to make their lives better and his interactions with Will were adorable.

I definitely need to go back and read more of this author's books. I enjoyed the author's writing style and found the book to be very engaging. I would definitely recommend this book!

WOW!!!!!!! Oh my god! I’m in love with this book, these characters and Claudia. This amazing 6 star story had me hooked with the blurb. A firefighter and a nurse.

Zack has been staying away from commitment and attachement. That is until he meets Nora, an er nurse. But Nora comes with a little baby boy Will. Zack never thought they were his futur. Nora is not ready to commit to another relationship but how can she not fall in love with him.

This story has special meaning for me, first as nurse myself. By the way the medical and nursing knowledge were spot on. Second, I love firefighters, Zack reminded me of Matt Casey in Chicago Fire. This story was written with heart and soul. Her storyline captured my undivided attention all throughout. Beautifully written with an addicting plot. I’ve read every book that this author as ever written so it was nice to see where the other previous characters were at.

What I look for in a story in order for me to love it, are the characters. They were perfectly created for this story. I love Will because children in stories just makes them so much sweeter. Bottomline in this a 2019 must read.

Told in the third person with an amazing HEA. I can’t wait for Luke’s story. I strongly recommend this story. It can safely be read as a standalone.

Another one not for me, I fell like I am too many years too late for this story and for the series that this author has created. I got to about 30% and just couldn't go any further.

There's nothing like a good, warm, heartfelt romance, and I love that I can count on Connor to deliver exactly that with every new release. I'm a big fan of The McKinney/Walker Brothers and have enjoyed each book - although I must admit that Nick & Mia stole my heart in Worth the Wait. And here's where I'll go ahead and say you're going to want to indulge in all these books in order of release. The author does an outstanding job of filling in the background in each additional book, meaning they can be read as standalones; however, you're cheating yourself out of some great romance stories and characters if you don't read in order and enjoy them all!

Waiting For You is Zach Walker and Nora Sellers story. Zach is a firefighter, and Nora is a single mother and nurse working the ER when they meet. Zach accompanies the EMT's bringing in a belligerent male suspected of DUI who's been involved in a car crash. Things get out of hand, and Nora is accosted and hurt. Zach feels responsible and insists on driving the nurse and her 10 month old baby (Will) home. As this story unfolds, Zach and Nora engage in an age-old dance around one another even as they hold each other at arm's length . . . each for their own reasons. Zach's gorgeous face and drool-worthy body belong on a Firefighter of the Month calendar - a fact supported by his "never spend the night" but "always treat them right" ladies man reputation. But more importantly, Zach's a conflicted man - one haunted by what he sees as a failure on his part to protect family members in the past. He may be attracted to the lovely nurse, but he knows she and her son deserve someone better. Nora is a single mom who's been burned once - a woman with trust and family issues of her own who refuses to rely on any man to ensure her and her son's future. Having experienced the hurt of being let down in the past, she won't risk it again. So is a friendship the only thing in their future?

Waiting For You is very much a story of family and commitments as readers will see examples of both the good and the bad play out in this one. It's a warm, heartfelt story about forgiving both others and yourself and opening the door to trust again. The support cast is strong with appearances by several other McKinney/Walker couples from past stories. I loved the interaction and family dynamics that played out and was thrilled to catch up with past couples in this story. While I would have liked a little more depth of story and plot in this book, I greatly enjoyed the characters and their quest for happiness. As always, Connor brings the emotions and heat to this romance as well as a side of funny banter making Waiting For You another Must Read in an awesome series. And I might add . . . there's nothing sexier than a gorgeous hunk falling head over heels over an adorable baby! You don't want to miss this one!

Zach is a hard working firefighter who meets single parent Nora who is a nurse. Nora is hurt on the job and Zach does everything he can to help her. They both have baggage they can’t shake but Zach quickly falls for both Nora and her son Will. This was a fun book to read. Even though it was not the first book in the series it easy to follow and I truly Enjoyed it.

There are times you come across an author whose stories touch your heart and stay with you for a very long time. That was the case a few years ago when I came across this author’s book, Worth the Fall and became a fan forever.
Ms. Connor’s books are not the suspense, action packed kind, but rather they are the ones that hook you within the first few lines, gently draw you into the characters and make you experience their feelings.
This time the story belongs to Zach Walker and Nora Sellers. Their trajectory is at times heartbreaking , touching but also heartwarming. There will be moments when you’ll wish you could give them a hug or a good shake !
Nora’s and Zach’s loss of their mothers in their young formative years, has made them who they are today. The feelings of abandonment, loss, and fears of loving and losing stops them from making commitments of any kind.
Somehow fate has her own agenda. But will Nora and Zach embrace the possibility of hope and love or will old fears stop them from finding a happiness in that someone special that has already taken a place in their hearts?
For those that have read the McKinney books, you’ll get a chance to visit with some of the characters, and if you haven’t read them, I highly recommend these wonderful stories.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley . The opinions expressed are solely my own.

I received a free copy from Netgalley and here is my honest review.

I was so excited for the next book in this series reading the blurb this sounded like just the book for me.

Once I started reading I couldn't put it down I loved it. I finished it in one day. You should really check out this series and this book. The family and people feel real and you can't wait to find out what happens.

This is the story of firefighter Zach Walker and ER nurse Nora Sellers. She gets hurt in a scuffle and Zach blames himself. He is used to blaming himself. He has felt guilt for years for the trauma his sister went through as a teen.

He decided years ago he wouldn't be a good father for husband. When he finds out Nora is a single mother of a 10 month old boy with a house that needs a lot of work he can't walk away.

Nora doesn't trust easy her past has taught her she can only count on her self. The more she gets to know Zach the harder he is to resist.

I loved this book so much it was so good. I reccomend it to all my friends and anyone who is looking for an amazing book to read

5 star book! Reading is my escape and when I get a book that can make me forget everything it is the best feeling. I loved this book so much.

Timeline of me and Waiting For You:

Monday, 10PM - check Goodreads before going to bed, see fellow reviewer is "Currently Reading - Waiting For You", comment how jealous I am, ponder how she got a review copy, pop online to see if it was added after I checked NetGalley earlier in the day, see it IS available!!!, request a copy, go to sleep with fingers crossed
Tuesday, 12:05PM - receive ARC approval email from NetGalley, squeal like a teenage girl

4PM - drive home from work like a bat out of a cave, begin reading while putting on comfy clothes, continue reading while heating up leftovers, reluctantly put book down while eating dinner with the family, ignore family for the rest of the night, finish at 1:45AM.

There are very few authors on my drop everything non-essential in life and stay up until 2AM to read her new book list. Claudia Connor is at the top. Every single story Claudia writes grips my heart and doesn’t let go for days, and Waiting For You has done the same. Her heroes are make-your-knees week swoony, and her heroines smart. The stories are heartfelt and compelling, and I LOVE THEM ALL!

Firefighter Zach Walker has spent the past keeping things light and fun, from his friends at work to his relationships with women. After losing his parents at 15, then living through a horrific ordeal with his younger sister, he’s had enough heavy and serious to last a lifetime. Recently though, the revolving door of women has lost its appeal. When he meets nurse Nora Sellers, something inexplicably pulls him to her.

Nora has a new job, an old house, and a 10 month old son. When she gets hurt at work, she manages to attract the attention of Zach. Try as she might to shake him loose, she isn’t able to. Which is a good thing, since her injury makes caring for her son difficult, and also her house is two steps past the fixer upper stage. Thankfully, she’s not too proud to accept the help she desperately needs. (This was SUCH a refreshing change from the status quo heroine of today, a la “she protests, the alpha hero grunts and bulldozes his way in”...and I love that Ms. Connor doesn’t go that route with her characters.)

The more time Zach and Nora spend together, the more their thoughts about their futures are challenged. Zach has never thought of himself as a husband or father, but every second he spends with Nora and Will shows him that could be a possibility. And Nora, who never had someone in her life to show her the love and loyalty she deserves, considers taking a chance on Zach. Watching Zach and Nora fall in love, and learn to have a fuller life than they were expecting, was beautiful and lovely.

I’m always a bit anxious whenever I start a new book by a beloved author. There’s always the chance my expectations will be unmet, that I’ll end up disappointed. But that has never happened with Claudia Connor. Her stories contain just the right amount of conflict to keep things compelling, but never veers into unnecessary angst. Her storytelling pulls me in and captures me, and doesn’t let go until days after I’ve finished. She has the swooniest heroes ever - unbelievably kind, caring and compassionate, yet completely manly and totally macho, and they never veer into alpha male ridiculousness. Her heroines are smart and sweet, but also possess an internal strength despite the hardships they’ve faced.

I could gush on and on about all of Ms. Connor’s books! Instead, I’ll just tell you these are the best kind of romance stories - with enough realism to make things believable, but enough escapism to make you happy sigh, and enough humor sprinkled in to balance out the heavy. I frequently wish Claudia would write faster, publish books more often. But she doesn’t. Instead, I just read her books over and over. And I’m okay with that, too.

* thank you to NetGalley and Claudia Connor for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review

Zach doesn't mind going that extra mile in being nosey, “men. Man,” he said, shamelessly fishing for information." Zach likes make his girl feel at ease, “if you can’t tell…” He pulled her bottom back into his growing erection. “The state of your room is the last thing on my mind. But if it makes you feel better, I don’t make mine either.” I liked this book, I fell in love with Zach.

Wow! Really liked this one! This is Nora and Zach book, Zach is a sexy firefighter and Nora is an ER nurse. Nora gets hurt in a scuffle in the er from a patient that Zach brings in from a dui accident. Zach blames himself for not keeping a better eye on the guy! Nora is new to town she's a single mom with a fixer upper house and a whole lot of baggage last thing she needs is a sexy firefighter?! Zach blames himself for a lot in his siblings past that went wrong so he thinks he's better off without a woman in his life let alone a woman with a child!! I definitely recommend reading 📚this book and series ! This is my first that I've read in this series and I'm going right back and reading the others lol Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for sharing this book with me!

Is there anything sexier than a man who volunteers to help out with a baby. Especially when that kids not even his. And being a sexy Firefighter isn't bad either. Nora is a very lucky lady.