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True Surrender
When U.S. Army officer Aaron Bricewick is rescued from Afghanistan terrorists, he thinks the worst is over. Little does he know his personal journey is just beginning...
The first surprise is the amputation of one of his legs. The second is the woman he left behind, now a widow with a 4-year-old son - and his new prosthetist.
He vows that losing his leg won't derail his military career, but adjusting to life as an amputee is harder than he anticipated; it would be all too easy to become addicted to painkiller drugs…
Maintaining his outward appearance as a got-it-together military officer becomes increasingly difficult as he struggles with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), even while denying he needs help.
And though he has no intention of expanding his life to include a woman (let alone a widow and a young child), reuniting with his lost love leads his heart in another direction. Will he get a second chance at love, or will the possibility of long-term separation scare Holly away?
When another Army officer goes missing in Afghanistan, and Aaron uncovers a military conspiracy, he finds himself questioning the very foundation of his personal beliefs. His life is further shaken when his friend and fellow veteran with PTSD commits suicide.
But when a promise of redemption comes from an unexpected source, Aaron must make a stand. Which will he choose: duty or love?
True Surrender is a medical drama and soldier love story with inspirational themes that explore the inner struggle with Christian faith - especially when everything goes wrong. Note: It also has sensual situations and references to sex.
Gold Medalist, Military Writers Society of America:
War and its aftermath is a deep, deep well for stories about devotion to duty, sacrifice, strength of character, friendship and love as well as violence, betrayal and loss.
Tracey Cramer-Kelly successfully weaves these emotions together in her poignant book, True Surrender, where we enter the world of Major Aaron Bricewick. After enduring capture and torture by terrorists in Afghanistan, and ultimate rescue by his fellow soldiers, Bricewick returns to the states wounded both physically and mentally. As may be typical of combat veterans, his stubbornness and outward self-confidence mask his vulnerability.
Perhaps it’s because of the author’s Army Reserve medic experience, but I found the descriptive side story of Bricewick’s leg amputation with its phantom pain, adjustment to prosthetics, acceptance of the reality of a lost limb and the limits it places on career and personal life, to offer raw insight into a world too many of our war wounded face and so few of us civilians can imagine.
Bricewick’s amputation brings him together with his former lover, Holly Rossiter, a prosthetist (artificial limb maker) at Holbrook Medical Center in California. But the amputation also serves as a metaphor for his life at this point: cut off emotionally from those around him, caught off balance by the betrayal of those he trusted, and in need of support from loved ones, no matter how painful it is for his independent self to admit.
Mix this with a mystery to be solved, an endearing and sensual love story, and a renewal of faith that had been long forgotten and True Surrender becomes a compelling and entertaining story. I couldn’t put it down.
“Mere words cannot express how impressed I am with this novel. Tracey Cramer-Kelly has out done herself on this military romance. This author has fully convinced me that she is a voice that will quickly earn her high marks in the book world.” ~ romancejunkies.
The first surprise is the amputation of one of his legs. The second is the woman he left behind, now a widow with a 4-year-old son - and his new prosthetist.
He vows that losing his leg won't derail his military career, but adjusting to life as an amputee is harder than he anticipated; it would be all too easy to become addicted to painkiller drugs…
Maintaining his outward appearance as a got-it-together military officer becomes increasingly difficult as he struggles with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), even while denying he needs help.
And though he has no intention of expanding his life to include a woman (let alone a widow and a young child), reuniting with his lost love leads his heart in another direction. Will he get a second chance at love, or will the possibility of long-term separation scare Holly away?
When another Army officer goes missing in Afghanistan, and Aaron uncovers a military conspiracy, he finds himself questioning the very foundation of his personal beliefs. His life is further shaken when his friend and fellow veteran with PTSD commits suicide.
But when a promise of redemption comes from an unexpected source, Aaron must make a stand. Which will he choose: duty or love?
True Surrender is a medical drama and soldier love story with inspirational themes that explore the inner struggle with Christian faith - especially when everything goes wrong. Note: It also has sensual situations and references to sex.
Gold Medalist, Military Writers Society of America:
War and its aftermath is a deep, deep well for stories about devotion to duty, sacrifice, strength of character, friendship and love as well as violence, betrayal and loss.
Tracey Cramer-Kelly successfully weaves these emotions together in her poignant book, True Surrender, where we enter the world of Major Aaron Bricewick. After enduring capture and torture by terrorists in Afghanistan, and ultimate rescue by his fellow soldiers, Bricewick returns to the states wounded both physically and mentally. As may be typical of combat veterans, his stubbornness and outward self-confidence mask his vulnerability.
Perhaps it’s because of the author’s Army Reserve medic experience, but I found the descriptive side story of Bricewick’s leg amputation with its phantom pain, adjustment to prosthetics, acceptance of the reality of a lost limb and the limits it places on career and personal life, to offer raw insight into a world too many of our war wounded face and so few of us civilians can imagine.
Bricewick’s amputation brings him together with his former lover, Holly Rossiter, a prosthetist (artificial limb maker) at Holbrook Medical Center in California. But the amputation also serves as a metaphor for his life at this point: cut off emotionally from those around him, caught off balance by the betrayal of those he trusted, and in need of support from loved ones, no matter how painful it is for his independent self to admit.
Mix this with a mystery to be solved, an endearing and sensual love story, and a renewal of faith that had been long forgotten and True Surrender becomes a compelling and entertaining story. I couldn’t put it down.
“Mere words cannot express how impressed I am with this novel. Tracey Cramer-Kelly has out done herself on this military romance. This author has fully convinced me that she is a voice that will quickly earn her high marks in the book world.” ~ romancejunkies.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2011
17 people are currently reading
392 people want to read
About the author
Tracey Cramer-Kelly
49 books342 followersTracey’s writing has been described as “vivid” and “gut-wrenchingly beautiful” and has been accused of making readers cry. All of which makes her heart feel ten times bigger because (despite having the appearance of a got-it-together business owner) she’s a hopeless romantic who believes that love—in all its many forms—truly makes the world go round.
Get swept away by wounded, flawed and vulnerable heroes (and the women who love them).
Join strong heroines on their riveting journeys through loss, forgiveness and self-realization.
Hang onto the edge of your seat through action-packed adventure and drama.
And most of all, escape into the combustible combination of ‘slow burn’ sensual pleasure and true love!
Want to know more? Sign up for Tracey’s Teasers at www.TKRomance.com
Tracey is a former Army combat medic and EMT. When not writing (or working part-time to support her writing habit), Tracey enjoys riding her motorcycle (which she affectionately calls ‘Black Widow’); spending time at the lake with family; and watching her favorite soccer teams (which include her kids’).
She lives on a 3-acre oasis in small-town Minnesota with a small menagerie of critters, an infinitesimally understanding hubby, and two almost-grown children who put up with the ‘embarrassment’ of a motorcycle-riding, romance writing mom!
Get swept away by wounded, flawed and vulnerable heroes (and the women who love them).
Join strong heroines on their riveting journeys through loss, forgiveness and self-realization.
Hang onto the edge of your seat through action-packed adventure and drama.
And most of all, escape into the combustible combination of ‘slow burn’ sensual pleasure and true love!
Want to know more? Sign up for Tracey’s Teasers at www.TKRomance.com
Tracey is a former Army combat medic and EMT. When not writing (or working part-time to support her writing habit), Tracey enjoys riding her motorcycle (which she affectionately calls ‘Black Widow’); spending time at the lake with family; and watching her favorite soccer teams (which include her kids’).
She lives on a 3-acre oasis in small-town Minnesota with a small menagerie of critters, an infinitesimally understanding hubby, and two almost-grown children who put up with the ‘embarrassment’ of a motorcycle-riding, romance writing mom!
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 12, 2020
I’m a total sucker for second chance romances, and I love a good military suspense plot. But both storylines in True Surrender left me wanting more.
As Major Aaron Bricewick lay close to death after horrific beatings at the hand of terrorists in Afghanistan, his last thoughts were of Holly Rossiter - the woman he left behind ten years ago in pursuit of his military career. To his utter shock, several days after being rescued and transferred to a hospital in Los Angeles, he finds Holly standing by his bed with news that she’s part of his treatment team.
While Aaron recovers from his physical injuries - which includes the amputation of his lower left leg - and deals with painkiller dependency and PTSD, he and Holly find themselves falling back in love. But it becomes apparent the circumstances surrounding his capture and rescue aren’t exactly as he’d been led to believe and someone he thought he could trust isn’t being truthful. In his quest for the truth, those he loves and cares for could end up in danger themselves.
This book started out really strong, but there were a number of things that kept me from enjoying this book, which I really feel could have used about another 50 or so pages to more fully develop both Aaron and Holly’s relationship, the challenges Aaron faced recovering and learning to live as an amputee, and the suspense storyline.
I would have liked to get a little more of Aaron and Holly’s backstory and why they broke up. I would have liked to see more of their present-day interactions that led to them falling back in love. When Holly had to attend an overnight conference and decided to take Aaron up on his offer to watch her four year old son, I felt like they hadn’t spent enough time together for that to be okay - I didn’t feel like their relationship had gotten to the point where a mother would entrust her young child to a man she hadn’t seen for over ten years, and one who was dealing with physical limitations and may not be in the best headspace, at that.
But the big thing that bothered me is that I couldn’t really understand all the things that led Aaron to discover the conspiracy around his capture and rescue. All we know is he talks to a journalist who was captured with him, shares his concern, then the journalist goes off to investigate and comes back with what he’s discovered. So much of the conspiracy was vague and most “action” took place off page. Which left me feeling unsatisfied with the suspense part of the plot. Give me ALL the suspense action!
And there were a couple other things that I would say were “off” in this book…
First, there is a bit of a religious aspect to this story. The journalist frequently talks to Aaron about God, the Bible, and praying. Holly also prays and attends church. Aaron spends time contemplating his beliefs. And yet...there are also sex scenes. Not graphic ones, mind you. But not exactly “closed door” either. I don’t read a whole lot of “inspirational” romance, but I’ve never read one that clearly was trying to have a religious overtone AND had sex scenes. I’m a “to each their own” kind of reader, and there’s not much I won’t read, nor do I get offended easily. But for a reader who is thinking they’re getting a “clean” romance, they're not going to be happy with the extent of this couple’s physical relationship nor the descriptions of it, and I found the juxtaposition of talk about religion and the inclusion of sex scenes to be a bit incongruous.
And the last thing that bugged me...because I’m a stickler for details, especially ones that are so easy to Google...when Aaron is having surgery to deal with an issue with his stump, he gets nauseated, and they give him Pitocin. Twice it’s mentioned the medicine used was Pitocin (and since I’m being persnickety...it’s spelled two different ways 🙄). Pitocin is the drug I was given to induce labor. So...HUH??? I did my own Google search and couldn’t find anywhere that it’s also used as an anti-nausea medicine. I’m not sure what medicine the hero should have been given, but I’m fairly certain it wasn’t that one. How did someone who apparently has training as an Emergency Medical Technician (as this author does) get that wrong? Or why was that not fact checked??? Errors like this don’t sit well with me. If you’re going to be specific about a drug, you should make sure you’re naming the right drug - especially when a quick Google search can keep you from making an error.
So, even though there were a handful of things that kept me from really liking this book, I DID still finish it, so that’s saying something at least. And the pacing didn’t drag so it kept my interest. But once I finished, True Surrender just left me wanting more.
As Major Aaron Bricewick lay close to death after horrific beatings at the hand of terrorists in Afghanistan, his last thoughts were of Holly Rossiter - the woman he left behind ten years ago in pursuit of his military career. To his utter shock, several days after being rescued and transferred to a hospital in Los Angeles, he finds Holly standing by his bed with news that she’s part of his treatment team.
While Aaron recovers from his physical injuries - which includes the amputation of his lower left leg - and deals with painkiller dependency and PTSD, he and Holly find themselves falling back in love. But it becomes apparent the circumstances surrounding his capture and rescue aren’t exactly as he’d been led to believe and someone he thought he could trust isn’t being truthful. In his quest for the truth, those he loves and cares for could end up in danger themselves.
This book started out really strong, but there were a number of things that kept me from enjoying this book, which I really feel could have used about another 50 or so pages to more fully develop both Aaron and Holly’s relationship, the challenges Aaron faced recovering and learning to live as an amputee, and the suspense storyline.
I would have liked to get a little more of Aaron and Holly’s backstory and why they broke up. I would have liked to see more of their present-day interactions that led to them falling back in love. When Holly had to attend an overnight conference and decided to take Aaron up on his offer to watch her four year old son, I felt like they hadn’t spent enough time together for that to be okay - I didn’t feel like their relationship had gotten to the point where a mother would entrust her young child to a man she hadn’t seen for over ten years, and one who was dealing with physical limitations and may not be in the best headspace, at that.
But the big thing that bothered me is that I couldn’t really understand all the things that led Aaron to discover the conspiracy around his capture and rescue. All we know is he talks to a journalist who was captured with him, shares his concern, then the journalist goes off to investigate and comes back with what he’s discovered. So much of the conspiracy was vague and most “action” took place off page. Which left me feeling unsatisfied with the suspense part of the plot. Give me ALL the suspense action!
And there were a couple other things that I would say were “off” in this book…
First, there is a bit of a religious aspect to this story. The journalist frequently talks to Aaron about God, the Bible, and praying. Holly also prays and attends church. Aaron spends time contemplating his beliefs. And yet...there are also sex scenes. Not graphic ones, mind you. But not exactly “closed door” either. I don’t read a whole lot of “inspirational” romance, but I’ve never read one that clearly was trying to have a religious overtone AND had sex scenes. I’m a “to each their own” kind of reader, and there’s not much I won’t read, nor do I get offended easily. But for a reader who is thinking they’re getting a “clean” romance, they're not going to be happy with the extent of this couple’s physical relationship nor the descriptions of it, and I found the juxtaposition of talk about religion and the inclusion of sex scenes to be a bit incongruous.
And the last thing that bugged me...because I’m a stickler for details, especially ones that are so easy to Google...when Aaron is having surgery to deal with an issue with his stump, he gets nauseated, and they give him Pitocin. Twice it’s mentioned the medicine used was Pitocin (and since I’m being persnickety...it’s spelled two different ways 🙄). Pitocin is the drug I was given to induce labor. So...HUH??? I did my own Google search and couldn’t find anywhere that it’s also used as an anti-nausea medicine. I’m not sure what medicine the hero should have been given, but I’m fairly certain it wasn’t that one. How did someone who apparently has training as an Emergency Medical Technician (as this author does) get that wrong? Or why was that not fact checked??? Errors like this don’t sit well with me. If you’re going to be specific about a drug, you should make sure you’re naming the right drug - especially when a quick Google search can keep you from making an error.
So, even though there were a handful of things that kept me from really liking this book, I DID still finish it, so that’s saying something at least. And the pacing didn’t drag so it kept my interest. But once I finished, True Surrender just left me wanting more.
December 2, 2011
What would you do if you were a career military officer who has been abducted by terrorists in Afghanistan, and suffered through excruciating torture for 7 days? Would your military life ever be the same after your rescue, when you find out your injuries would include losing your leg? Would you be able to surrender your pride, and put your trust in God, the military, and let the one woman who you let get away help you recover? And if it came down to choosing between the military or true love, which one would you choose? These are the questions that Major Aaron Bricewick faced in True Surrender.
Major Aaron Bricewick is a career officer in the Army. He was leading a telecommunication unit in Afghanistan, when he was abducted at gunpoint along with his driver, a civilian contractor and a translator (who was executed for being a traitor) by terrorists. The three had been held in captivity for 7 days, with Major Bricewick receiving the brunt of the torture because of his officer's rank. When they were rescued by American forces, Major Bricewick was weak from near starvation and had life-threatening injuries to his hands and legs. After being medevaced to Germany and undergoing surgery to stabilize him, Major Bricewick was transferred to Holbrook Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, for extensive leg surgery which resulted in him having a below the knee amputation to his left leg. What he didn't know was that the woman he left twelve years ago, Holly Rossiter, would end up being on his care team as his prosthetist. What ensues in this fast paced suspenseful romance thriller is Aaron's journey towards recovery, surrendering his pride and finding his faith, discovering deceit in the military that was his life, and giving into the desire to regain the love from the woman that he had let go of so long ago.
True Surrender was everything that I could ask for in a book: a captivating mixture of romance and suspense, what a combination! In a time when Afghanistan is always in the news and our military is stationed there, author Tracey Cramer-Kelly provides her readers with a very realistic and intriguing contemporary military romance suspense thriller. As I followed Aaron and Holly's story, I couldn't help but hope that this book would be made into a movie made for television, it was that good. The storyline is well written, realistic and fast paced. The characters are realistic and believable, I could actually see them being my neighbors since I live in a military town. As a healthcare provider, I enjoyed the author's description of the medical and rehabilitation portions of the story, this is a wonderful attribute from her own real life medical and military experience. The military suspense portion of the story had me sitting on the edge of my seat, holding my breath waiting to see what would happen next. But most of all, I absolutely loved reading about Aaron and Holly's relationship journey, it was sigh worthy! There is not enough words to say how much I enjoyed reading this book, my kudos to Ms. Cramer-Kelly for providing readers with a book that will stay on my favorite list for a long time! I look forward to reading more books from this author!
Disclaimer: At the request of the author and Goddess Fish Promotions, a PDF edition of this book was sent, at no cost to me, for my honest review and virtual book tour event.
Virtual Book Tour Event: In association with Goddess Fish Promotions, Jersey Girl Book Reviews is pleased to host this virtual book tour event on Friday, December 2, 2011, with a book review of True Surrender by Tracey Cramer-Kelly!
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Major Aaron Bricewick is a career officer in the Army. He was leading a telecommunication unit in Afghanistan, when he was abducted at gunpoint along with his driver, a civilian contractor and a translator (who was executed for being a traitor) by terrorists. The three had been held in captivity for 7 days, with Major Bricewick receiving the brunt of the torture because of his officer's rank. When they were rescued by American forces, Major Bricewick was weak from near starvation and had life-threatening injuries to his hands and legs. After being medevaced to Germany and undergoing surgery to stabilize him, Major Bricewick was transferred to Holbrook Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, for extensive leg surgery which resulted in him having a below the knee amputation to his left leg. What he didn't know was that the woman he left twelve years ago, Holly Rossiter, would end up being on his care team as his prosthetist. What ensues in this fast paced suspenseful romance thriller is Aaron's journey towards recovery, surrendering his pride and finding his faith, discovering deceit in the military that was his life, and giving into the desire to regain the love from the woman that he had let go of so long ago.
True Surrender was everything that I could ask for in a book: a captivating mixture of romance and suspense, what a combination! In a time when Afghanistan is always in the news and our military is stationed there, author Tracey Cramer-Kelly provides her readers with a very realistic and intriguing contemporary military romance suspense thriller. As I followed Aaron and Holly's story, I couldn't help but hope that this book would be made into a movie made for television, it was that good. The storyline is well written, realistic and fast paced. The characters are realistic and believable, I could actually see them being my neighbors since I live in a military town. As a healthcare provider, I enjoyed the author's description of the medical and rehabilitation portions of the story, this is a wonderful attribute from her own real life medical and military experience. The military suspense portion of the story had me sitting on the edge of my seat, holding my breath waiting to see what would happen next. But most of all, I absolutely loved reading about Aaron and Holly's relationship journey, it was sigh worthy! There is not enough words to say how much I enjoyed reading this book, my kudos to Ms. Cramer-Kelly for providing readers with a book that will stay on my favorite list for a long time! I look forward to reading more books from this author!
Disclaimer: At the request of the author and Goddess Fish Promotions, a PDF edition of this book was sent, at no cost to me, for my honest review and virtual book tour event.
Virtual Book Tour Event: In association with Goddess Fish Promotions, Jersey Girl Book Reviews is pleased to host this virtual book tour event on Friday, December 2, 2011, with a book review of True Surrender by Tracey Cramer-Kelly!
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
December 13, 2011
When I first discovered this book I knew I had to read it because of the subject matter. As a disabled person myself, I was drawn to a character who was recently disabled to see how the author would deal with this part of the character's life. After turning the last page I'm happy to report that the character of Aaron is very realistic. He's realistic in a way that's heart breaking to see as he struggles to accept his limitations and cope with the kind of man he's become. Between the physical pain and mental heartache is a man that hits rock bottom only to build himself back up again through the love of a good woman and a belief in a higher power.
Helping him cope with the changes to his life is ex-girlfriend Holly who's an expert with prothesis and someone who's gone through her own traumatic life changes. Still recovering from the loss of her husband, Holly is leery about becoming involved with another man. She ultimately gives in after seeing the pain he's in and gives him the support he needs to do what must be done. Holly is a strong heroine who's supportive of Aaron and doesn't let him give up. No matter how low things get for him, she's still there. Once they finally decide on having a relationship, their sexual interludes are nicely paced throughout the story and sweetly natured with just a hint of steaminess.
Religion has an important place in this story as the author uses prayer and the bible to give help to Aaron through his struggles. A secondary character brings God and the power of prayer to Aaron's life in a somewhat subtle, somewhat blatant way. Those not very religious might have problems with this part of the story but I didn't find it too invasive.
Along with talk of religion came a mystery surrounding the mission that led to Aaron's torture. It turns out that there's corruption amongst the higher ranks and it's harming soldiers. Aaron slowly unravels the mystery and although there's a conclusion to this aspect of the story, it's not the most satisfying. Considering this, I wish Aaron's recovery had remained in the forefront.
All in all this was a satisfying story full of gut wrenching moments and examples of the power of love. The characters were believable and easy to relate to and I recommend this book to those wanting a bit of realism to their romances.
Helping him cope with the changes to his life is ex-girlfriend Holly who's an expert with prothesis and someone who's gone through her own traumatic life changes. Still recovering from the loss of her husband, Holly is leery about becoming involved with another man. She ultimately gives in after seeing the pain he's in and gives him the support he needs to do what must be done. Holly is a strong heroine who's supportive of Aaron and doesn't let him give up. No matter how low things get for him, she's still there. Once they finally decide on having a relationship, their sexual interludes are nicely paced throughout the story and sweetly natured with just a hint of steaminess.
Religion has an important place in this story as the author uses prayer and the bible to give help to Aaron through his struggles. A secondary character brings God and the power of prayer to Aaron's life in a somewhat subtle, somewhat blatant way. Those not very religious might have problems with this part of the story but I didn't find it too invasive.
Along with talk of religion came a mystery surrounding the mission that led to Aaron's torture. It turns out that there's corruption amongst the higher ranks and it's harming soldiers. Aaron slowly unravels the mystery and although there's a conclusion to this aspect of the story, it's not the most satisfying. Considering this, I wish Aaron's recovery had remained in the forefront.
All in all this was a satisfying story full of gut wrenching moments and examples of the power of love. The characters were believable and easy to relate to and I recommend this book to those wanting a bit of realism to their romances.
December 17, 2011
Originally posted at http://its-raining-books.blogspot.com...
This story captures the deep emotions of a soldier who had been tortured and maimed by the enemy in Afganistan. His feelings and thoughts are sensitively shown. It was sweetly romantic yet sensual. This is a tender romance which lets the reader see how the war affected his thinking, feeling and acting, in regards to relationships with others.
He suffers from anger, sadness, the loss of a leg, the feeling of helplessness, and frustration along with the sorrow and guilt about the harm that had been done to his companions. The heroine is caring, understanding and very patient with this soldier and shows how important this is to his recovery.
True Surrender follows his recovery -- both mental and physical -- and also shows how he finds the party who was responsible for his capture and torture. How he deals with his feelings of betrayal and how he overcomes his anger was wonderful to read.
I really enjoyed the story which helped me understand what some of our soldiers are dealing with in today's world. The only complaint I have about the story was the conclusion and resolution of the situation which had caused his capture and the death of others. I felt cheated because I didn’t see how it was worked out in real time. Instead I only found a few sentences that dealt with the conclusion.
All in all, however, I enjoyed the story and the people in it. I wouldn't have been unhappy with the ending if I hadn't been so completely invested in the characters, which shows the skill of the author. It is a very timely novel that's well worth reading, and I'd definitely be interested in reading more from Tracey Cramer-Kelly.
This story captures the deep emotions of a soldier who had been tortured and maimed by the enemy in Afganistan. His feelings and thoughts are sensitively shown. It was sweetly romantic yet sensual. This is a tender romance which lets the reader see how the war affected his thinking, feeling and acting, in regards to relationships with others.
He suffers from anger, sadness, the loss of a leg, the feeling of helplessness, and frustration along with the sorrow and guilt about the harm that had been done to his companions. The heroine is caring, understanding and very patient with this soldier and shows how important this is to his recovery.
True Surrender follows his recovery -- both mental and physical -- and also shows how he finds the party who was responsible for his capture and torture. How he deals with his feelings of betrayal and how he overcomes his anger was wonderful to read.
I really enjoyed the story which helped me understand what some of our soldiers are dealing with in today's world. The only complaint I have about the story was the conclusion and resolution of the situation which had caused his capture and the death of others. I felt cheated because I didn’t see how it was worked out in real time. Instead I only found a few sentences that dealt with the conclusion.
All in all, however, I enjoyed the story and the people in it. I wouldn't have been unhappy with the ending if I hadn't been so completely invested in the characters, which shows the skill of the author. It is a very timely novel that's well worth reading, and I'd definitely be interested in reading more from Tracey Cramer-Kelly.
January 31, 2021
Good, Not Great
This novel is the second I've read by Tracey Cramer-Kelly, although it was published 8 years earlier than The Longest Run. I wish I could praise True Surrender as highly as I did Longest Run but, sadly, I cannot.True Surrender is less well-written, less polished and the story needlessly more complicated than that in the later book.
Essentially, a high-ranking 36 year old Army officer, Aaron, is severely wounded in Afghanistan and brought to a hospital in California for treatment.There he undergoes the amputation of his right leg below the knee, and encounters a former lover in the guise of his prothetist, Holly.
The slowly rekindling romance between these two MCs is soon intertwined with the discovery
of a screw-up and then cover-up of a mission in Afghanistan, the very one that resulted in the capture snd near-fatal torture of Aaron and two colleagues. The eventual reveal of the screw-up and cover-up in fact provides the climax to the story.
Okay, the story is exciting, the MCs both likeable and admirable, and the settings memorable. But the conflation of the romance story with the military operations one, while an essentual plot device, becomes mired in details. The HEA ending comes almost as an unsatisfying afterthought.
Two major problems: the writing and the device that starts the plot. While gecwriting is generally quite serviceable and lively, the author evidently failed to edit her text carefully before loosing it on readers.There are instances of egregious errors in choice of vocabulary-"effluent" instead of, I'm guessing, "fluent," for example. A couple of obvious typos pop up to detract from the flow. Finally, there are a couple of nnoying examples of failure to properly identify the antecedents of pronouns.
As for the plot device that starts the whole thing-- Aaron's leg amputation--not enough use is made of it in the descriptions of the interactions, eventually sexual, of the two MCs. This is not a piece of devotee fiction; still, the reader is entitled to expect that the issue of the hero's leg stump would come up more frequently, particularly in scenes of cuddling and full-on love making. It hardly appears at all.
Still, this is a fine book, with emotionally rich story-telling and believable, sympathetic, characters. I think there is a good deal here to appeal to mature male readers, like myself, as well as to the more typical younger female demographic.
Most heartening, Tracey Cramer-Kelly has built on the the solid, if flawed, writing here to become a stylist of the first order. I'm looking forward to reading more if her recent work.
This novel is the second I've read by Tracey Cramer-Kelly, although it was published 8 years earlier than The Longest Run. I wish I could praise True Surrender as highly as I did Longest Run but, sadly, I cannot.True Surrender is less well-written, less polished and the story needlessly more complicated than that in the later book.
Essentially, a high-ranking 36 year old Army officer, Aaron, is severely wounded in Afghanistan and brought to a hospital in California for treatment.There he undergoes the amputation of his right leg below the knee, and encounters a former lover in the guise of his prothetist, Holly.
The slowly rekindling romance between these two MCs is soon intertwined with the discovery
of a screw-up and then cover-up of a mission in Afghanistan, the very one that resulted in the capture snd near-fatal torture of Aaron and two colleagues. The eventual reveal of the screw-up and cover-up in fact provides the climax to the story.
Okay, the story is exciting, the MCs both likeable and admirable, and the settings memorable. But the conflation of the romance story with the military operations one, while an essentual plot device, becomes mired in details. The HEA ending comes almost as an unsatisfying afterthought.
Two major problems: the writing and the device that starts the plot. While gecwriting is generally quite serviceable and lively, the author evidently failed to edit her text carefully before loosing it on readers.There are instances of egregious errors in choice of vocabulary-"effluent" instead of, I'm guessing, "fluent," for example. A couple of obvious typos pop up to detract from the flow. Finally, there are a couple of nnoying examples of failure to properly identify the antecedents of pronouns.
As for the plot device that starts the whole thing-- Aaron's leg amputation--not enough use is made of it in the descriptions of the interactions, eventually sexual, of the two MCs. This is not a piece of devotee fiction; still, the reader is entitled to expect that the issue of the hero's leg stump would come up more frequently, particularly in scenes of cuddling and full-on love making. It hardly appears at all.
Still, this is a fine book, with emotionally rich story-telling and believable, sympathetic, characters. I think there is a good deal here to appeal to mature male readers, like myself, as well as to the more typical younger female demographic.
Most heartening, Tracey Cramer-Kelly has built on the the solid, if flawed, writing here to become a stylist of the first order. I'm looking forward to reading more if her recent work.
November 12, 2017
GREAT STORY
Very profound and heart wrenching. Surviving torture and the lose of a limb is bad enough but to find out the betrayal was caused by someone close is so much worse. Unfortunately the premise for the betrayal is believable. (Read the book for details). Aaron’s journey of recuperation and acceptance including gaining faith in God and reconnecting with a former love makes this story worth reading. This is more than just a happily ever after story.
Very profound and heart wrenching. Surviving torture and the lose of a limb is bad enough but to find out the betrayal was caused by someone close is so much worse. Unfortunately the premise for the betrayal is believable. (Read the book for details). Aaron’s journey of recuperation and acceptance including gaining faith in God and reconnecting with a former love makes this story worth reading. This is more than just a happily ever after story.
July 2, 2021
Surrender
Very enjoyable and engaging storyline. Nice mix of romance and drama.
The story has some Christian believes and at the same time doesn’t shy away from sexual relationship.
Nicely done!
Very enjoyable and engaging storyline. Nice mix of romance and drama.
The story has some Christian believes and at the same time doesn’t shy away from sexual relationship.
Nicely done!
March 12, 2023
A good man
This book covered so many things ,second chances at love,government cover ups, torture.the hero losing a leg and learning to walk again. It mostly tells his side .But he deals with it all as he learns to trust in God.
This book covered so many things ,second chances at love,government cover ups, torture.the hero losing a leg and learning to walk again. It mostly tells his side .But he deals with it all as he learns to trust in God.
July 8, 2017
A fantastic read.
The story is realistic. Easy to follow and understand. Want to read more..... thank you. I enjoyed it. These word counts kill me.
The story is realistic. Easy to follow and understand. Want to read more..... thank you. I enjoyed it. These word counts kill me.
February 1, 2024
Didn't hate it. Pieces felt missing from the story. The ending was blah
August 15, 2017
This book is so good!
This book is so hard to read and yet so worth the tears. It is about Aaron and Holly and her son Nick. It is about love and forgiveness and surrendering and healing. It is also about love, most of all, it is about love. 💖
This book is so hard to read and yet so worth the tears. It is about Aaron and Holly and her son Nick. It is about love and forgiveness and surrendering and healing. It is also about love, most of all, it is about love. 💖
January 9, 2012
Originally posted on http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...
A man tormented by nightmares and the after affects of a capture, and a woman who has lost so much, but still feels blessed. These two amazing people have met and loved each other before, but now are brought face to face again. True Surrender is Aaron and Holly's story, and along the way are some powerful scenarios and deep, emotional conflict that needs resolving.
Aaron Bricewick wakes up in a strange place after being imprisoned by terrorists. His memories are of bad, disturbing things and he can't shake those feelings away. But Aaron is now home in America, free, and he's in for a long ride ahead because he has to adapt to his new life.
A major in the Army, a man like Aaron is used to being independent, strong, and capable. Now he's not so sure, and his desire to not allow anyone in to help deal with his pain is slowly eating away at him. My heart went out to this man, and though he's only a character in a book, there are many men like him out in the real world that could be and possibly are going through the same thing that Aaron did. That's what makes him such a character to relate to, and his strong emotions pulled me into this book and never let go.
Holly Rossiter is a widowed mother of a wonderful little boy. What Holly doesn't expect when she goes into work one day is to come face to face with a man from her past, and have to deliver some startling news to him. She loved Aaron long ago, but their different paths in life caused the pair to drifted apart. What matters now is Holly is here for Aaron, and wants to see him through this difficult time. Not many could go through such a traumatic experience only to meet up again with someone they never thought he'd see again. This is a new beginning for Holly and Aaron, along with Holly's young son, Nick.
True Surrender has an outstanding plot that holds on tightly to the readers emotions, strong characters that you won't be able to forget, and intense situations that will either make or break it for this couple. It's a contemporary romance with light inspirational aspects. Aaron must come to terms with life and God and accept what has become of him even thought he fails to understand why. And Holly, despite the things she's lost, embraces life as a blessing. As light and dark join forces, it's only a matter of time before love finds its way into their lives once again.
I enjoyed this book and was glad to be able to read it. The author takes a story that could be part of someone's real life and keeps the reader engaged the whole while. Readers, if you're looking for a sensual contemporary story to captivate you, then rush on out and get a copy of True Surrender, and I no time, you'll surrender your heart to these inspiring characters.
A man tormented by nightmares and the after affects of a capture, and a woman who has lost so much, but still feels blessed. These two amazing people have met and loved each other before, but now are brought face to face again. True Surrender is Aaron and Holly's story, and along the way are some powerful scenarios and deep, emotional conflict that needs resolving.
Aaron Bricewick wakes up in a strange place after being imprisoned by terrorists. His memories are of bad, disturbing things and he can't shake those feelings away. But Aaron is now home in America, free, and he's in for a long ride ahead because he has to adapt to his new life.
A major in the Army, a man like Aaron is used to being independent, strong, and capable. Now he's not so sure, and his desire to not allow anyone in to help deal with his pain is slowly eating away at him. My heart went out to this man, and though he's only a character in a book, there are many men like him out in the real world that could be and possibly are going through the same thing that Aaron did. That's what makes him such a character to relate to, and his strong emotions pulled me into this book and never let go.
Holly Rossiter is a widowed mother of a wonderful little boy. What Holly doesn't expect when she goes into work one day is to come face to face with a man from her past, and have to deliver some startling news to him. She loved Aaron long ago, but their different paths in life caused the pair to drifted apart. What matters now is Holly is here for Aaron, and wants to see him through this difficult time. Not many could go through such a traumatic experience only to meet up again with someone they never thought he'd see again. This is a new beginning for Holly and Aaron, along with Holly's young son, Nick.
True Surrender has an outstanding plot that holds on tightly to the readers emotions, strong characters that you won't be able to forget, and intense situations that will either make or break it for this couple. It's a contemporary romance with light inspirational aspects. Aaron must come to terms with life and God and accept what has become of him even thought he fails to understand why. And Holly, despite the things she's lost, embraces life as a blessing. As light and dark join forces, it's only a matter of time before love finds its way into their lives once again.
I enjoyed this book and was glad to be able to read it. The author takes a story that could be part of someone's real life and keeps the reader engaged the whole while. Readers, if you're looking for a sensual contemporary story to captivate you, then rush on out and get a copy of True Surrender, and I no time, you'll surrender your heart to these inspiring characters.
November 25, 2011
While in Afghanistan Major Aaron Bricewick was captured by terrorists. His abductors try to pressure him to reveal top secret information. He refuses to corporate with them and they savagely tortured him by breaking both his legs. He fears that he will not be able to survive another beating. With is life hanging on by a thread he is miraculously rescued.
The nightmare doesn’t end when he is found; instead he is rushed to Holbrook Medical Center, a military hospital that specializes in extensive trauma; the damage to one of his legs is so severe the doctors have no other choice but to amputate one of his legs. Aaron has to come to terms with his amputation. To complicate matters is his prosthetist Holly Rossiter. Holly and him had shared a passionate love affair, but the time came when he had to decide to choose her or his career. With no looking back, he moved forward by selecting his career.
When Holly discovers that Aaron has been admitted to her hospital she assigns herself to his case. It is difficult for Holly to see such a strong man as Aaron face such a life altering surgery. She thinks as Aaron’s prosthetist she will be able to provide him the comfort and expert care that his condition warrants.
As Holly sees Aaron come to terms with his amputation will she be strong enough to provide him the strength he needs to get through his dark days? Aaron is determined that his disability will not deter him from having the career he worked so hard at maintaining. Will he once again walk away from the love that Holly is offering?
TRUE SURRENDER is one EXCEPTIONAL book!!! Mere words cannot express how impressed I am with this novel. Tracey Cramer-Kelly has out done herself on this military romance. This book is so well developed it would make an excellent candidate for the Lifetime movie channel. This author has fully convinced me that she is a voice that will quickly earn her high marks in the book world.
The nightmare doesn’t end when he is found; instead he is rushed to Holbrook Medical Center, a military hospital that specializes in extensive trauma; the damage to one of his legs is so severe the doctors have no other choice but to amputate one of his legs. Aaron has to come to terms with his amputation. To complicate matters is his prosthetist Holly Rossiter. Holly and him had shared a passionate love affair, but the time came when he had to decide to choose her or his career. With no looking back, he moved forward by selecting his career.
When Holly discovers that Aaron has been admitted to her hospital she assigns herself to his case. It is difficult for Holly to see such a strong man as Aaron face such a life altering surgery. She thinks as Aaron’s prosthetist she will be able to provide him the comfort and expert care that his condition warrants.
As Holly sees Aaron come to terms with his amputation will she be strong enough to provide him the strength he needs to get through his dark days? Aaron is determined that his disability will not deter him from having the career he worked so hard at maintaining. Will he once again walk away from the love that Holly is offering?
TRUE SURRENDER is one EXCEPTIONAL book!!! Mere words cannot express how impressed I am with this novel. Tracey Cramer-Kelly has out done herself on this military romance. This book is so well developed it would make an excellent candidate for the Lifetime movie channel. This author has fully convinced me that she is a voice that will quickly earn her high marks in the book world.
December 13, 2011
I mostly read books that are romantic comedies or paranormal romance/urban fantasy. And I found the beginning of this military romance nearly too intense to continue. Author Tracey Cramer-Kelly’s stark descriptions were emotionally hard to read, but ultimately her strong, believable characters and a storyline rich with heart and determination kept me reading.
At first I couldn’t get over her heroine, Holly Rossiter, putting the welfare of this injured soldier before her own feelings, but that even though he’d left her to pursue his career, she more than just forgives him, she helps heal him body and soul.
The scenes with Holly’s child were cute and heartwarming, and I felt a belly-full of disgust for Aaron Bricewick’s superiors. The lengths they would go to for subterfuge and to employee this poor, stalwart hero in their deceitful plans.
But, luckily, in good romantic form the hero of the piece chooses the girl instead of his career…this time. I was expecting one of those terrible suffering Nicholas Sparks ending, and was relieved with the outcome.
The only problem I had with the novel was Aaron’s asking Holly to marry him. It was not only a little hokey, but it was over so quickly that I felt like I didn’t get to savor it at all.
Overall, though, True Surrender is a powerful novel by an excellent writer.
At first I couldn’t get over her heroine, Holly Rossiter, putting the welfare of this injured soldier before her own feelings, but that even though he’d left her to pursue his career, she more than just forgives him, she helps heal him body and soul.
The scenes with Holly’s child were cute and heartwarming, and I felt a belly-full of disgust for Aaron Bricewick’s superiors. The lengths they would go to for subterfuge and to employee this poor, stalwart hero in their deceitful plans.
But, luckily, in good romantic form the hero of the piece chooses the girl instead of his career…this time. I was expecting one of those terrible suffering Nicholas Sparks ending, and was relieved with the outcome.
The only problem I had with the novel was Aaron’s asking Holly to marry him. It was not only a little hokey, but it was over so quickly that I felt like I didn’t get to savor it at all.
Overall, though, True Surrender is a powerful novel by an excellent writer.
December 17, 2011
Aaron Bricewick joined the Army to try and make the world a better place, he never expected that he would need to be rescue by US Forces. Having been kidnapped and tortured, Aaron is flown back to Southern California to be treated at Holbrook Medical Center. It's there that he faces losing his leg and having to readjust to his new way of life. It takes not only Aaron, but his college sweetheart, Holly Rossiter and her son to help Aaron re-evaluate his life.
When I finished this book, I felt extreme gratitude to those serving in our Armed Forces. What Aaron went through both at the hands of the terrorists that kidnapped him and by his own best friend was heartbreaking. He suffered from post traumatic stress and had to battle a possible addiction to pain killers. His only bright spot was rekindling his relationship with Holly Rossiter. His everyday battles seemed incredibly real and made you appreciate the spirit and rebuilding of faith in himself and others that got him to where he was at the end.
Holly had her own share of heartbreak, her husband being killed two years before in a gas station robbery, but she was more of a half glass full, rather than empty type of girl. She knew when to take a tough stance with Aaron and when to open her heart up to him.
A nice read that shows the resilience of the human spirit.
When I finished this book, I felt extreme gratitude to those serving in our Armed Forces. What Aaron went through both at the hands of the terrorists that kidnapped him and by his own best friend was heartbreaking. He suffered from post traumatic stress and had to battle a possible addiction to pain killers. His only bright spot was rekindling his relationship with Holly Rossiter. His everyday battles seemed incredibly real and made you appreciate the spirit and rebuilding of faith in himself and others that got him to where he was at the end.
Holly had her own share of heartbreak, her husband being killed two years before in a gas station robbery, but she was more of a half glass full, rather than empty type of girl. She knew when to take a tough stance with Aaron and when to open her heart up to him.
A nice read that shows the resilience of the human spirit.
December 12, 2011
Overall, I liked this book. It was different than a lot of other romance books that I've read in that it deals with some pretty heavy topics, mostly surrounding some of the issues that military personnel face when they come home from war. Aaron is one of the soldiers who unfortunately comes home with the effects of fighting a war showing. He loses his leg!
I really liked the characters of Holly and Aaron. Holly has a good heart but I do wish that we got to know a little more about her personality; I didn't feel like we got to know her as well as we get to know Aaron throughout the book. Aaron is incredibly strong. When he comes home from war, he's not willing to admit that he may need help. He tries to be brave and he's even trying to help some of his friends from the military.
There were a couple things that irked me a little bit. First, I'm wondering if there is going to be another edit of the book. There were a few mistakes that took away from the story. Also, Scott got way too religious for me. I wasn't really sure where that was going. Last, I wish there had been more of a conclusion about some of the bad things that Aaron finds out about the military. It would have been nice to have some closure. Even with these few things, this is still an ok read.
I really liked the characters of Holly and Aaron. Holly has a good heart but I do wish that we got to know a little more about her personality; I didn't feel like we got to know her as well as we get to know Aaron throughout the book. Aaron is incredibly strong. When he comes home from war, he's not willing to admit that he may need help. He tries to be brave and he's even trying to help some of his friends from the military.
There were a couple things that irked me a little bit. First, I'm wondering if there is going to be another edit of the book. There were a few mistakes that took away from the story. Also, Scott got way too religious for me. I wasn't really sure where that was going. Last, I wish there had been more of a conclusion about some of the bad things that Aaron finds out about the military. It would have been nice to have some closure. Even with these few things, this is still an ok read.
January 14, 2013
When I picked up True Surrender by Tracey Cramer-Kelly I knew I was reading outside my genre, which I enjoy doing, but am sometimes hesitant. Well, let me tell you this time I was sooo glad I did!! This is a gem of a story! Once I started reading it I couldn’t put it down!
I fell for the hero from the first page. He’s tormented by nightmares after being captured and tortured in Afghanistan and now suffers a leg amputation because of it. My heart ached for him, and all the men and women out there who go through what he does. Miss Kelly handles the injury and recovery very well, and the emotion of healing and dealing with the injury and loss of career—well done!!
The heroine, Holly, is the perfect mix of strong and sensitive, and caring and supportive for Aaron. She had her own tragic past to overcome and together they make a couple you can’t stop reading. I promise you will keep turning the pages in this book. Their intimate and personal and spiritual journeys converge and it is one heck of a ride!!
Well done, Miss Kelly! I look forward to reading more of your books!! Thank you!!
(I was given a digital copy of True Surrender in exchange for an honest review.)
I fell for the hero from the first page. He’s tormented by nightmares after being captured and tortured in Afghanistan and now suffers a leg amputation because of it. My heart ached for him, and all the men and women out there who go through what he does. Miss Kelly handles the injury and recovery very well, and the emotion of healing and dealing with the injury and loss of career—well done!!
The heroine, Holly, is the perfect mix of strong and sensitive, and caring and supportive for Aaron. She had her own tragic past to overcome and together they make a couple you can’t stop reading. I promise you will keep turning the pages in this book. Their intimate and personal and spiritual journeys converge and it is one heck of a ride!!
Well done, Miss Kelly! I look forward to reading more of your books!! Thank you!!
(I was given a digital copy of True Surrender in exchange for an honest review.)
December 3, 2014
oorah for Tracey Cramer-Kelly. A romance that totally satisfies, yet deals with some of the painful and difficult issues our young men and women in the armed forces are faced with. The story didn't get bogged down with the endless detail of what Aaron Bricewick had to go through in rehab, but still we got to look into his heart and soul and see the struggle. Holly Rossiter has her own conflicts to overcome, and letting Aaron back into her heart is one of her biggest challenges. It's a heartwarming story of love. It's an inspirational story as well. And there's a little mystery thrown in for good measure. All in all, a great read.
March 1, 2015
A Christian based thriller/military romance/family drama.
It was a good story and I'd probably have given it 4 stars except for the inclusion of a couple of graphic sexual encounters that lent nothing to the story.
Favorite quote: "Why did people think military relationships were romantic? If anything, they were more work than most relationships."
I requested and received an audio review CD of this title through GoodReads First Reads.
It was a good story and I'd probably have given it 4 stars except for the inclusion of a couple of graphic sexual encounters that lent nothing to the story.
Favorite quote: "Why did people think military relationships were romantic? If anything, they were more work than most relationships."
I requested and received an audio review CD of this title through GoodReads First Reads.
May 24, 2023
A fluid story throughout with plenty of suspense and who is responsible for what Aaron, Scott and Cheryl went through when they were captured. My heart goes out to active or veterans who go through what they went through.. Justice will prevail. HEA.
November 24, 2011
it was a four star most of the way but the end was over the top and unnecessary. full review to come.
March 10, 2012
I loved this book and highly recommend it if you like stories with deep emotion and great characters. It was really hard to put down.
January 28, 2014
great read! gripping story.
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