Hail No introduces us to Evander, a just released convict, and Kennedy, a chicken farmer. Both of them have shitty families (and that is the NICEST thing I can say about them!). Kennedy is so sweet and is just desperate for someone to love her. Her family has only really used her and she is alone. Evander's family all but abandoned him once he was incarcerated. These two have a few run ins before Evander starts to consider that Kennedy might be more than just his quirky neighbor.
Kennedy made my heart hurt. Ugh, I just wanted to hug her. When the neighbor's dog killed all her chickens, I was totally crying! Both for Kennedy at the loss, and for all those chickens! So freaking sad!!!. I wanted Evander to protect her and shield her from a world filled with people who took advantage of her. But, then he worries that he will only make her life worse (not possible dude, her life is a shit show), and tries to bail. Not cool, Evander. Thankfully, Kennedy is not dumb and realizes why he is pulling away and is determined to NOT let him. Yay Kennedy! The climax of the story occurs in parts; as you think things are getting better...nope. It was great! I read the book in 1 sitting!
Overall, Hail No isn't surprising-no shocking suspense or anything like that-but it is the touching story of two very dynamic characters that will steal your heart. If they don't you are a Vulcan with no emotions. Seriously, if you don't feel empathy for Kennedy, I worry that you are dead inside.
If you are an animal lover...There are dozens of chickens that are slaughtered in this story. All by a neighbor's dog. There is also a dog that dies. My animal loving heart was breaking right along with Kennedy's!
- POV: dual 1st
- Tears: a few (see spoiler above if you want to know which part made me cry!)
- Trope: ex-con
- Triggers: none
- Series/Standalone: stand alone
- Cliffhanger: no
- HEA: yes
Shelter for Sophie by Susan Stoker, Her Forbidden Hero by Laura Kaye...then you will probably like Hail No!
See full review on The Book Disciple