Ruby's Savior

No Surrender #3

by C.M. Youngren

Abandonment made me wary of love…
Would I ever trust enough to let down my guard?

When I was a little girl, I wrapped my heart in a protective cocoon for safekeeping. After being dumped by my mother as an infant, I was left with painful scars that never fully healed. Not wanting to give anyone else the power to hurt me the way she had, I kept everyone at a distance except for my grandparents and my brother.

They were all I needed.

Until I met him.

The moment I laid eyes on Lyric he took up space in my head and I couldn’t shake the feeling he would take up residence in other places if I allowed it. When a threat lurked in the shadows and the safety of my family was questioned, he rode in like a knight in shining armor and saved us. I quickly realized that when in his presence, my body craved his touch, his soul spoke to mine, and that four-letter word we call love had his name written all over it.


Is Lyric the man to make me believe I deserve to be loved unconditionally and embrace what he has to offer without fear it will all disappear if I surrender my heart?

Genres: Contemporary Romance, Romance

287 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 31, 2022

About the author

C.M. Youngren is an author of swoon-worthy contemporary romance whose dream in life is to own a bookstore slash coffee shop. She lives in Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and her herd of animals. She loves 80’s music, movies, reading, and adores singing regardless if she can hold a tune or not. Hopelessly addicted to watching The Voice, driving her best friend crazy, and eating tacos are some of her favorite things.

Reviews

[StephieG · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, they just keep getting better ❤️ l love series books where you get to know the characters so well throughout all the books. This is no different with Ruby & Lyric & there story to find love.

Laughter, the swear jar, friendship, love & suspense all wrapped up into this amazing story, about how they manage to find each other when life is throwing a few curve balls & making their lives a little crazy.

Well done, l was able to receive an ARC copy of this book and am leaving an honest review..!! A must read, along with all of the books from this author to learn about the whole gang.

[Jenn the Readaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby and Lyric have quite the road ahead of them. She’s a tad mysterious, but with good reason. He doesn’t seem to want a woman, but can’t deny that Ruby just calls to everything in him. But when things get extra real, extra fast, can they survive to find a forever?

Ruby exhausts me, I swear. Multiple jobs, family to support and try to shield, more family waiting in the wings that needs extra love and care, and Lyric standing there waiting for her to recognize that he’s not leaving her side through it all. It’s no wonder that he clearly fails to his his heart away when it comes to her. And it’s just as clear that all that makes up Ruby is exactly what Lyric wants for his future. Even with danger lurking, these two manage to communicate and grow their love without unnecessary drama between them. And I loved every minute. Even when Ruby proves that she’s able to save herself, I had to enjoy this rollercoaster that brings them to their HEA and growing family!

But now? Now I think two others are calling for their story to be shared. And I kinda can’t wait to find out how Gemma fares….

[Cynthia Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby and Lyric take you on a read that will blow your mind and touch your heart and soul. Ruby not use to asking for help, she is a strong woman who protects herself with a wall around her heart and only opens for her family. When she meets the guys of No Surrender her life starts to change and one man stands out to her Lyric. When Lyric meets Ruby his world tips upside down and he knows she is for him, when he finds out she has a stalker he and the guys do what they can to help her. When she finds out she has a little sister Autumn she wants to do whatever she can to get her. When she gets taken will the guys be able to find her? Will she open her heart to Lyric or keep her walls up? Will Lyric be able to show her that he is there to stay? I absolutely loved this book and all the emotions it pulled out. With every page you get a little bit and you don't want it to end. I completely enthralled with their story and I can't wait to read what she has next.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby still bears the emotional scars of her childhood so she is cautious about who she allows close, but she loves fiercely and will do whatever is required for those she cares about. When she finds herself being threatened it is Lyric who is there for her determined to support her not only from the danger but from the emotional turmoil she is about to face as well.

Lyric was content being single until Ruby comes into his life. He was willing to let her keep him at a distance until he found out she was being threatened and now he will do everything he can to protect her so that he can convince her she can trust him with her heart and her life.

Intrigue, chemistry and romance combine as Ruby and Lyric battle the danger in the present so that they can have the future they both want.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg I read this book in 1 setting!

I have been waiting for Ruby and lyrics story and it did not dissapoint 😍 I was hooked from page one all the way to the end! I love Ruby she defo suits her red headed name, she's fiery and fun! And lyric is just the sweetest most protective hero ever!!

My favourite thing about this series is seeing every character progress and how all their stories entertwine. Its great seeing the old characters and getting introduced to new ones aswel! And boy did this book have a whole group of new ones!! I can't wait to get to their stories!!

Since I met Gemma I've been dying for her book so to get a little sneek of where he story is going was so exciting!

Also if we can get a crossover for gramps and grandmama from the redeeming love series that would be perfect! (If you know you know 🤣)

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book. Ruby comes to no surrender for help and lyric was the one to step up. The more time they spent together the stronger their feelings became. Can lyric save ruby in time before it's to late and she'll be gone forever?

[Joleen Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby and Lyric were made for each other. Both serve others. Both are full of fire and both need each other. Loved Ruby’s family. They fit perfectly into the crazy group that already exists. Their spark ignited their story and kept it heated through the ups and downs!! Can’t get enough of this series!!!!

[Gina Burkart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what another amazing read that I read in one setting. This is Ruby and Lyric story and it will have you in a twist of two people trying to make it work.

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby’s Savior, book three in the No Surrender series follows nurse Ruby Adams and Police Officer/No Surrender employee, Lyric Knight. We first met Ruby back in book one of this series when she was Teal’s nurse at the hospital, and even then sparks were flying between her and Lyric. Since she was abandoned as a child, Ruby has never been good at opening up to others, until she met Lyric who made her want to open up to someone for the first time. Lyric just happens to be at No Surrender when Ruby comes in seeking help from a potential stalker, and Lyric quickly volunteers to help the scared nurse who he has secretly been crushing on. The pair work together, and the more time they spend together, the more they want to be a part of each other's lives. Will Lyric be able to break down Ruby’s walls? And will Ruby realize that Lyric is the man who will love her without fear of being abandoned?

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what a story. Ruby and Lyric's story is an amazing journey. There is suspense, romance, shock, and many other elements in this incredible story. This story along with all of the others leaves me wanting to find that happily ever after and to find a group of friends like the ones in this book. I was on the edge of my seat with anticipation wondering what was gonna happen next and how the story would turn out. These books go to show us that even when terrible things happen to you, something beautiful can still take it's place. I'm absolutely stunned with how this story came together. Another A+ story. Keeping making magic love and taking me to a place that allows me a chance to escape and find a happy ending. I can't wait to see where Gemma and Bodie end up. I know they are gonna be an exciting and crazy eventful read.

[Rosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

* * *Received an ARC for my honest review *

Ruby's such a kind and wonderful person with a heart of gold. She was left with her grandmother and grandfather as an infant. Sixteen years later her 8 year old brother Jett was dropped off by her mother at her grandparents house as well. That was when she first saw her mother. She had a good loving caring life with her grandparents and Jett. Now all grown up she works two jobs to help support her grandfather and brother. Her brother is now 18. Ruby found out she has another sibling, a three year old sister, Autumn. Ruby met  Lyric through No Surrender. She had someone stalking her and needed their help. The mystery as too who this stalker is, is my kind of thing. I love a good book with some sort of mystery in it. You don't need to worry as you will find out who this mysterious person is and what he wants from Ruby.

Now Lyric is such a gentleman. I'm a little bit in love with him🙈😍. He was basically in love the minute he met Ruby. He's a gentle soul and is good to Ruby and her family.

This is one of those sweet romances that you can read over and over again.

Gemma and Bodie is next and can't wait to read their story.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not one for writing spoilers in my reviews... but this time, I might, lol. Youngren did not disappoint. Lyric and Ruby are so perfect and special. Ruby comes to No Surrender for help with a stalker problem, and Lyric jumps in to save the day. After weeks of making eyes at each other in accidental meetings at the hospital, Lyric and Ruby finally have a chance to be together. I love how Lyric is all in from the beginning. Helping her and supporting her with everything she has on her plate. Lyric and Ruby's relationship grows hott all while trouble is hiding in the background.
Lyric is my absolute favorite. For real, I know I've said it about the other guys, but she wrote Lyric perfectly. The worst part about this book, is that it ended. I can't wait for the next one to come out. C.M. Youngren is a fantastic writer and brings her characters to life. When I read her stories, I feel part of the close group of friends. I'm so glad we get to catch up with them in every book. Looking forward to many more from Youngren ❤️

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Ruby and Lyric. These are two characters who are just meant for each other even if you don’t necessarily think so on a first glance.

Now, if you’ve read the previous books in the series, you have seen the glances and interactions between them, and their attraction has been setting off sparks for quite a while. But once they have to work together, their attractions sets off fireworks. And Lyric being who he is, when Ruby needs help, he is definitely going to be there for her.

I don’t want to give away spoilers, or tell you about all the different things that happen, but this is a couple who deal with quite a few things that could drive a week or couple apart. These two take on very complicated family issues, deal with hard hitting trauma And know how to put together a family made out of love, not necessarily blood. And when it comes down to the fact, they always know that they can count on each other.

[Becky Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want a read that will warm your heart and possibly set your girly parts on fire then Ruby's Savior by C.M. Youngren is it. Totally swoon worthy. Kudos!

[Tiffany G · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. Ruby comes to no surrender for help and Lyric was the one to step up. The more time they spent together the stronger their feelings became. Can Lyric save Ruby in time before it's to late and she'll be gone forever? Can't wait until the next one!!

[Sharon Faurot · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as a arc member . Give my thoughts own free will . Lyric and ruby story such a page turner . Another continuous part of the series . Ruby thinks someone is following her so she goes to no surrender and ask for help . Instant connection with lyric . She has to let some walls down and let her heart trust him . Way better then 5 stars . Must read . Another amazing book by this amazing author you will truly enjoy these people and the rest of the gang and her extended family.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book speaks to your heart and demands your attention. Ruby is woman who was abandoned at birth by her mother with no father in the picture. The warmth and support of her grand parents didn’t lessen the hurt, dampen the fear of being left again or heal her trust issues. Despite all that, Ruby is now a woman people are drawn to because of her big compassionate heart and the beauty shines from within as well as wears on the outside. It takes a serious threat to her family for independent and responsible Ruby to call on the No Surrender security group for help. Lyric, a growly, very protective and handsome cop who sometimes works with guys at No Surrender, is the first to step forward when Ruby asks for help in keeping her family and herself safe. He has been attracted to Ruby since they met a few months ago and he won’t let anyone hurt her or anyone she loves. As Lyric and the guys at No Surrender secure her home and make a plan to keep everyone safe, Ruby draws closer to the man who makes her feel safe, cared for and wanted. A steamy kiss leads to so much more, leaving Ruby with no doubts about Lyric’s mutual attraction. When an unexpected and life changing wrinkle in her life makes itself known, it is Lyric who is there to offer her unwavering support and a pledge to always be by her side. With her past, her trust issues, will she take him at his word or try to push him away in an effort to protect her heart? Can Lyric convince her that his intentions and his heart are pure? Will they both reach toward love instead of letting it go?

I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Mandie Reads More · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes people don’t walk away.

Ruby and Lyric’s story is so freaking good! Ruby is needing help to protect her family and it just so happens she knows a few people who are apart of the No Surrender group. She never has time for a serious relationship since she is focused on taking care of her family. Plus she is always terrified to get close to anyone, afraid they will leave. One of the fellow No Surrender men Lyric never wanted to get engaged again especially not married. But when a red headed bombshell gem crosses his path, he can’t help but to fall for her. But not only does he fall for her but her family as well. Even when a huge bomb is dropped on them, he will do whatever it takes to prove to Ruby that he is there for the long haul. The suspense in this book killed me. I was sitting on pins and needles, tearing up at some parts. C.M. Knocked this book out of the park I absolutely loved it!

[Fleur · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one heck of a roller coaster ride in more ways than one! We finally get to know Ruby and Lyric more and my heart broke for not only Ruby but also her brother Jett and her grandparents after what they have been through, however seeing Lyric take it all in his stride and embrace Ruby's family and all that comes with it made my heart burst with joy. A lot goes on in this book not only is someone after Ruby, but her family gets another shock and Jett shows how amazing he is for his age, you will be crying and laughing as well as your heart breaking and loving how Ruby and her family get to finally have an extended family they deserve as well as learn that it's ok to ask for help.
I love the No Surrender family and how they are forever expanding in one way or another and can not wait for the next book to see what happens next!!

[Stephanie Corbett · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars - an enjoyable romantic suspense story
This is the latest instalment in the No Surrender series, a fun and interesting story with enough twists and turns to keep you hooked. We had met these characters in previous instalments and they now have their own story where we get to find out all about them and their history.

I have enjoyed this series, but found this book wasn’t quite as fast paced as previous books, hence my 3.5 rather 4 stars. The book is written from both Ruby and Lyric’s POV which gives an interesting insight into their relationship but felt a little repetitive at times.

Overall a good story and another interesting instalment for this series and I am looking forward to the next book featuring Gemma and Bodie.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Virginia VanSaders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Lyric and Ruby!

Lyric works at No Surrender, a security agency and is also a cop. Ruby is a nurse, where she originally met Lyric when one of the guys was in the hospital. She also worked at a club which turned into being a model. There are underlying threats that go further than that. She went to No Surrender for help because she’s sensed being watched concerning those threats. The sparks are flying between them at a single touch. This story is sweet and steamy with a side of suspense and surprises along the way. Tears came to my eyes with all the love and happiness brewing throughout. It’s all about friends turning into family, although it doesn’t have to be by blood. Looking forward to Gemma’s Savior.

[Amberlyn Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting. I like how he was ready to stand on business. And handle said business. Respect for Lyric and also Ruby. Girl was serious about family.

I was nobody’s knight in shining armor but somehow I found myself wondering if I could be that for Ruby.

the man across from me watched with a horrid fascination as I doused my cup of java with multiple creams and a load of sugar, he asked me, taking a sip of his plain black coffee, if I could even taste coffee anymore.

When she walked up to my window and offered me a hot steaming cup of coffee, black just like I liked it, I think that was when I knew I needed her in my life. And not just as a client. After taking a sip, I groaned and jokingly said, “Marry me.”

[Leslee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby and Lyric's story was divine! Ruby has a lot on her plate but she manages to balance it all with a smile on her face. She never thought a guy like Lyric would ever be interested in a woman with all the entanglements she has. Once she lets him in, he just keeps coming back for more. He doesn't just fall in love with her but with her family too. He quickly brings her into the fold with the people he calls family. She sees how wonderful he is, how every promise is kept and quickly falls for him too. I absolutely love how we see them build their relationship, layer by layer. It was a joy to have a front row seat to this wonderful love story!

[Colleen White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had been waiting for Lyric's book. This author writes amazing stories and character, in this third book she continues her great work at writing a book which teleports you to a certain place and time for Lyric and Ruby. This is not a story of instant love, both characters have been acquaintances for some time, but due to their own issues with past cheating and abandonment, they are slow to move on their attraction to each other. Once fate causes Ruby to request the help of the men at No Surrender and as the story spins out Ruby and Lyric fall in love overcome obstacles which would derail longer relationships. I can not wait for the next book in this series.

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby & Lyric

Such a fun and amazing story!! I highly enjoy this series - getting to watch the No Surrender family grow is awesome. Ruby & Lyric's road to their HEA is full of excitement! I love that they're together from practically page one, even before they're together-together. 🤣

There is A LOT going on, and I love the pacing & way things happen. Great family moments, suspense, just enough spice, lots of humor, LOTS of love! And the stories behind everyone's names are sweet - Ruby, Jett, Lyric, etc. 💚

So happy there is more coming in this series!! It's a definite favorite & is on the reread shelf!!

😍😍😍😍

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author certainly knows how to weave a story that total captures you. Once you start you can not put it down. You will love the characters and their complexities and their story. It is so realistic. The things they go through and their emotions and struggle and yet inspires them to to go for what their hearts yearn for! It is a must read and have book for me! I loved Ruby and Lyric's story. It is simply amazing. There is suspense, romance, desire, secrets, shock, and more. 5 stars all the way! This is my favorite of the series so far. Check it out and see what you think!

[Jessy · Rating 5 out of 5]

SWOON... Man in uniform and young woman ready to single-handedly take on the world... they're bound to be a match made in heaven. Ruby's got her hands full with work, home, her grandfather and her brother but juggles it all with a smile on her face. When she goes to the team for help she never expected to see Lyric and he was more than happy to volunteer to be her knight in shining armor. CM likes to pull at our heartstrings of course but such a feel good love story with phenomenal friendships and weaving one story into the next... As always... loved this one as well. Fantastic series!!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Ruby and Lyric met in a previous book, there were sparks, but now it’s their turn and there are fireworks! They met previously, but now Ruby needs the services of No Surrender and Lyric will stop at nothing to keep her safe

Ruby’s Savior is the third book in C. M. Youngren’s No Surrender series. The story is witty and passionate with angst and mystery thrown in. I absolutely love the little family (well not so little and growing every day) that Ms. Youngren has created and I will semi patiently wait for the next installment!

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby and Lyric's story is joy to read. Ruby is a character that prefers to not depend anyone. And having Lyric show her that she can open up to him is captivating to read through. Like other books that the author has published, we are dealing with characters that things to work thru. But both find something within each other worth having and saving. CM Youngren is for sure an author worth reading.

[Cherie Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not sure which character I liked the most in this story, Gramps for his fiestiness, Autumn for her sweetness, or Lyric & Ruby for their dedication to each other. All that aside I love the family dynamic and the way the friends have a bond the supersedes blood.

I received an ARC of this story and this is my honest and freely given review