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Chica Bella

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53 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 2, 2013

44 people want to read

About the author

Carly Fall

71 books305 followers
USA Today best-selling author Carly Fall is a wife, a mother and a slave to the dog, Nicky.
She is the author of the award-winning series, the Six Saviors. She is also the author of the Supernatural Renegades series, and other paranormal and contemporary romance.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Jennifer.
331 reviews214 followers
May 12, 2013
My Review: 4 Stars

Landon "Blackhawk" Walker is a Navy SEAL who has completed 5 tours of duty so far. He knows his time is done and is finally looking to settle down.

During one of his breaks from a tour of duty, he traveled to Cabo, Mexico where he met Maya Gonzalez, his chica bella (beautiful girl), a bartender at the hotel he was staying at. They begin a relationship where he would stay a week or two and then get called back to service, leaving Maya broken hearted. Because he's a SEAL, he cannot tell her where he's headed or keep in touch. She never knows if or when she will see him again.

After this latest tour of duty, he tells his Commanding Officer that he wants out, but they need to find a replacement for him first. He travels again to Cabo, hoping that Maya will forgive him and prays that he won't receive the call that means he has to return to battle.

The characters, Landon and Maya, were well written and the relationship was very believable. I was rooting for them from the beginning and hoping that he would not receive that fateful call that meant leaving his chica bella again. I felt the angst that Landon and Maya must have experienced knowing all of the uncertainty in their future. There were a few steamy love scenes that I enjoyed reading but were more sweet than explicit, and that fit in well with the type of story that she was telling. The author did a great job in creating a complete story in such a short number of pages. If you're looking for a quick, sweet read with an HEA, that will give you your Romance fix in less than an hour, then this is definitely the book to add to your to-be-read list!

Check out my review at Love Between the Sheets: http://www.readlovelust.com/2013/05/r...
Profile Image for Literati Literature Lovers.
2,008 reviews158 followers
May 26, 2013
Title: Chica Bella
Author: Carly Fall
Genre: Romance
Rating: 4/5
Synopsis
Landon “Blackhawk” Walker is ready to get out of the Navy SEALs. He has seen and done enough, and can’t wait to get to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico where three tasks await him: get back into civilian mode, take a boat out to the El Arco Rocks, and win back the heart of the woman he lost because of his career.
Maya Gonzalez has tired of the heartbreak that comes with Landon’s deployments year after year. When he walks back into her life, she cannot deny her heart, despite her reservations.
As they lose themselves in each other and the beauty of Cabo, their passion is rekindled once again, but Maya knows that one phone call means deployment for Landon, putting an end to their reunion, and possibly their relationship.
Review
I was really excited when I was asked to review Carly Fall's book Chica Bella. I had read one other book by this author and found her writing to be fun and engaging and such a humorus book to read. That previous book was a paranormal, so I was very curious as to how her writing style differed with a contemporary romance.
Again, the writing was smooth and the pace was quite fluid. But unlike the paranormal book, which were more along the light and fun side, Chica Bella was a bit more on the serious side. However, the charming qualities of her characters remain consistent in her writing.
We find in the beginning Landon Walker, having completed his fifth tour of duty in the Navy SEALS, has come back to Cabo San Lucas Mexico for a well earned time off. Landon has given seventeen years of his life to the Navy, protecting his country, and he has become irreplaceable. He is torn between his loyalties to serving his country and wanting to finally retire and lead a normal life. His commanding officer wants him to stay and Landon knows that if he would ask, Landon would still say yes, despite his need to resign. Landon is hoping that a replacement for him will be found, because he really wants is a different life.
He has no family to come home too, but he continues to come back to Cabo for the last three years because of one special woman.
Maya Gonzalez worked as a waitress at the hotel that Landon happened to visit three years ago. The attraction was instantaneous but the relationship was not without its complications. Maya knew Landon had a dangerous job. He would stay for weeks or months at a time and then all of a sudden, he would disappear to go on a mission; never having any communication while away on an assignment. During his times away Maya had no information of his whereabouts, if he was hurt, or if he even still thought of her. How completely agonizing that would be, tortuous almost.

Now he comes back and Maya wonders if the relationship is worth it. Is it worth reliving her feelings of loss and abandonment and the fear that she may never see him again while away on duty? Uncertainty rules, and Maya is not so easy to give him another chance this time around. But Landon is desperate because he knows that Maya, his chica bella, or beautiful girl, is the only one for him. Throughout the book he continues to convince her that they should be together, but he is unable to give her what she truly wants. That is, a commitment to stay with her for good. No more assignments, no more last minute goodbyes, no more wondering if he would ever come back.

For a story that was only 63 pages long, it packed an emotional punch. As I read the book, I think of all the servicemen and women that serve our country, and I think of my own brother when he served in the Air Force. I remember my sister-in-law, and how hard it must have been for her while he was away in Saudi Arabia years ago. The worry over loved ones that serve can be very overwhelming as some of you dear readers are already aware.

The author brought me back to that and I really felt Maya's courage at giving Landon another chance. How brave she must have been to offer her heart, not knowing whether it would offer her happiness or pain. This was a book about people taking chances. To offer your heart all the while knowing there is a risk of it breaking; of it leaving and maybe never seeing or feeling it again with the one and only person whom you only ever connected with. If you want a short and light romantic read, I would suggest giving Chica Bella a try. A copy of this book was provided for this honest review. ~Rosette
343 reviews
May 16, 2013
Chica Bella Carly Fall

I want taken in by Chica Bella the moment I started reading this novella penned by Carly Fall. Ms. Fall describes the fragile love and trust of Maya Gonzalez and Landon Walker better known as Blackhawk because of his association of Navy SEALS. The theme of being in love with a Navy SEAL has a natural pull on my heartstrings because of my admiration of the work of the SEALs.

I was touched by Landon's reluctance and “fear” of reconnecting with his love, Maya Gonzalez because of the lack of communication and covert activities of his demanding duties of secrecy. The reuniting in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico was so tender and sensitive, bleeding of apprehensions from two beautiful people.

Ms. Fall does an extraordinary job of bringing the reader into the storyline by wrapping up all sensory elements and the prior knowledge, understanding of longing for someone. The pain of not being sure if your lover is alive and what they are doing. As a woman, I connected with Maya's level of mistrust and pain when you don't know what is happening to your man or what he is doing living day to day without a word from him.

Landon doesn't know what to do as it relates to his relationship with Maya but he can tackle any tough mission, withstand bullets, jungles, deserts, bombs exploding around him. The thought of how receptive Maya will be when he re-enters her life. Maya is his missing magical piece of Heaven.

Maya waits in what seems to be an eternity missing Landon, his touch, his sparkling persona, teasing manner along with making her feel so sensual and adored.

This love between Maya and Landon is one that will never in my opinion die regardless of the circumstances.

Ms. Falls depiction of Cabo San Lucas is on the money and I enjoyed how she shared the activities in Mexico interactions among characters, dialogue and as she states the rapid fire of Spanish that can often take place in conversations loaded with emotions.

Ms. Falls characters are fabulously sexy: Maya, breathtakingly gorgeous with a body built for sin and lust in the eyes of any man blessed to be in her presence.

Landon “Blackhawk” makes me want to scream with carnality, those tight buns, abs and broad shoulders that appear to be capable of sheltering me from any storm. Imagine touching the tattoo and the muscles surrounding it. Landon's body and heart will make most women knees weak. Although he can't stop the rain or torn emotions I could feel his energy which appears to contain the power to change destiny.

Ms. Falls does justice to the parental guidance and support when it involves Maya and Landon.

Chica Bella is a quick read and I found myself caught up in the strange set of circumstances Maya and Landon were thrusted into as a result of his deployments.

If you enjoy a quick, spicy tug of war of emotions, loving making Chica Bella will pleased your palate with all of the rushing emotions and memories packed within the pages of Chica Bella .

I look forward to reading more of Carly Falls stories.
Profile Image for Jessica Noreault.
45 reviews5 followers
May 15, 2013
Original review was posted on my blog, the link is located on my profile so feel free to check it out.

First Impressions:
While the first chapter was not really a jump into action type of entry, I still really enjoyed it. Fall really appears to have done research not just on the Navy SEALs, but also the area that her boy Landon was stationed in. I felt like she really knew what she was talking about, and used a lot of description to give us the feel for what Landon had been through up until now. She also really introduced us to him, made him seem real. He has the "tough guy" act expected of a SEAL, but he also has fears of his own that go beyond that. While I usually prefer the action type chapters at the very beginning of the book, Fall makes this one work and keeps you interested!
9 out of 10

Plot:
The entire plot was pretty much just the two of them working through their relationship and getting through the obvious hardships that the relationship has faced in the past. I really enjoyed the story. Fall kept me hooked through the story, and I finished it in about an hour an a half!
9 out of 10

Characters:
Landon - As I stated before, he is very believable. He has his strengths and fears, he feels guilt, he is all around human. We get a look at how he has developed over time, and it actually made me like him even more.
Maya - I love Maya. She is sassy, strong, but sensitive too. She knows how to handle herself, can speak her mind, and hold her own. She amused me and made me relate to her all at once.
10 out of 10

World:
The story is based in the "real world". It takes place in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. I felt like she really knew the location, she used descriptions and landmarks and made it all fit. I've never been, but would definitely love to go after reading this story!
10 out of 10

Final Impressions:
I really enjoyed Chica Bella. I loved both Landon and Maya, though Maya was definitely my favorite. She was saucy and sensitive, and I just loved the combonation. The ending of the book left no questions to be asked, and I was content with it. Fall really kept me interested in the story and it was a very quick read for me! I loved it.
10 out of 10

OVERALL SCORE:
4.8 Stars
(gotten by adding the total score for each option I gave together and dividing by the max amount.)
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,096 reviews93 followers
December 15, 2013
**ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**

Rating Clarification : 3.5 Stars

I have to start by saying I really hadn't heard of the book or author until I was contacted for a review. I was pleasantly surprised with this book and author. This is a novella...only 57 pages, but I thought the author did a really good job creating a complete story in such a short book. Most novellas lack something, whether it is character development, plot development or they tend to just feel rushed, well let me tell you this novella wasn't like that. I was happy, that with this novella, I felt we got a complete story in such a short read.
This novella truly is a read that if you have a short amount of time to read and are looking for something without a lot of drama or angst, this is the book to read. It was a quick and easy read with a little bit of steam ;)

In this story we meet Landon ( I love the name By the Way ) who is a Navy SEAL and has been for 17 years. He is ready to get out and start a new life as a civilian. The story starts with him on "leave" and he has decided to go to his favorite vacation spot....Cabo San Lucas... What makes this his favorite spot is Maya. She is a native who lives there with her family and works at a local hotel bar. They had met 3 years ago and he continues to go to her when he is on leave. This story shows what it is like to be involved with a man in the military. I felt that the author portrayed an accurate account of feelings when it comes to loving a man in the military and he is deployed for action. I felt the connection between Landon and Maya, you could really feel that they truly loved each other but extenuating circumstances made them wary of moving forward. I was glad to watch this couple reconnect.

I would recommend this novella to anyone looking for a straight forward second chance love story with a little steam but will leaving you smiling in the end :)

For more reviews go to www.bookbitchesblog.com
Profile Image for Jillian Stein.
395 reviews43 followers
May 24, 2013
Chica Bella is the first work I have read by Carly Fall and is part of her Honor Guard Series. Being a sucker for a man in uniform, I was eager to dig into this book and was happy I did….it was a great read!

Landon Walker is a Navy SEAL who has recently come off of assignment and has come to realize that he may be finished with the SEAL life. He is back in Cabo San Lucas and hoping the woman he has had to leave behind more times than he cares to think about will take him back…again. Only this time, he hopes he will be able to stay with her, forever.

Maya can’t believe he’s back, sitting here at her bar, and bringing all sorts of emotions back to life within her. Hurt, relief, longing, lust, just to name a few. He had left her nine months ago and she has been worried sick and trying to live a life without him…and now he’s back. Popping in just as he always does. This time she isn’t sure she has the strength to love him and have him leave without a word until he can return again. Sure, she understands his service to his country comes first, but she’s tired of coming second.

Landon and Maya only have two weeks, maybe less, to reignite the flame they have between them and enjoy as much of one another as they can. Landon is praying he gets the call he desperately wants…the call that they have found his replacement and he can spend the rest of his life at peace, with Maya.

Even though this story is only 53 pages, is has everything a 300 page story has. Love, emotional turmoil, lust and eventually, happiness. I really enjoyed Carly’s writing style and was drawn to the characters from the beginning of the story and was entertained until the very end. I will definitely be checking out more of her work!

Thank you, Carly, for packing a whole lot into a small package!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Novels On The Run.
846 reviews67 followers
May 16, 2013
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 15TH MAY 2013:

RATING : 4 LANDON STARS!!

This was a great novella sized read. I really liked Navy SEAL Landon “Blackhawk” Walker. I connected very quickly with his character.

Landon is on leave in Cabo, Mexico and he has his eyes on the one lady that sets his heart ablaze, Maya Gonzalez. Maya is a sweet character who has let her heart fill with pain every time Landon ships back out on a mission.

She needs to think of herself, but every time Landon comes back into her life, she is powerless to move on.

She wants Landon, but can her heart take anymore of not hearing from him for a year, due to the nature of his job?

This was a nice quick read, nothing dangerous happens except for Landon's reaction to a college boy getting all mouthy. It is a short story about two people who need each other and some pretty nice dates.

I really could have read more.

I thought a couple scenes bled together where I was in one scene and then I was in another. I did a bit of a double take, but it was how it was written. I thought they need to be attended to, but other than that I really liked this short story.

I certainly would have loved the story to have been a full length novel as the characters are very likable. I would have liked some action and for Landon to show us his capabilities outside the bedroom. Although I am not complaining :)

I look forward to reading more in this series and maybe full length sized reads. It is very hard to capture a romance in a small read, but Carly got me hooked.

I wanted more :)

Michelle
Profile Image for Michelle  novelsontherun.
659 reviews62 followers
May 16, 2013
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 15TH MAY 2013:

RATING : 4 LANDON STARS!!

This was a great novella sized read. I really liked Navy SEAL Landon “Blackhawk” Walker. I connected very quickly with his character.

Landon is on leave in Cabo, Mexico and he has his eyes on the one lady that sets his heart ablaze, Maya Gonzalez. Maya is a sweet character who has let her heart fill with pain every time Landon ships back out on a mission.

She needs to think of herself, but every time Landon comes back into her life, she is powerless to move on.

She wants Landon, but can her heart take anymore of not hearing from him for a year, due to the nature of his job?

This was a nice quick read, nothing dangerous happens except for Landon's reaction to a college boy getting all mouthy. It is a short story about two people who need each other and some pretty nice dates.

I really could have read more.

I thought a couple scenes bled together where I was in one scene and then I was in another. I did a bit of a double take, but it was how it was written. I thought they need to be attended to, but other than that I really liked this short story.

I certainly would have loved the story to have been a full length novel as the characters are very likable. I would have liked some action and for Landon to show us his capabilities outside the bedroom. Although I am not complaining J

I look forward to reading more in this series and maybe full length sized reads. It is very hard to capture a romance in a small read, but Carly got me hooked.

I wanted more J

Michelle
Profile Image for Michelle.
54 reviews9 followers
April 3, 2013
This story takes place over a few days, during what could be their last reunion. Landon is a tough, alpha Navy SEAL, but his one weakness is Maya, whom he met a few years earlier, while on leave. He is at career crossroads that may change his and Maya's relationship, permanently.

Even though this is a novella, enough back story is provided to give the reader the big picture of their relationship. Maya is a strong woman who understands that Landon's job involves a great deal of confidentiality - so she knows not to ask many questions. But, she's ready to move on with her life, as painful as it may be. Their future hinges on a phone call, and we experience all the emotions with them, as the call comes in.

What I liked: Landon was yummy and I wanted him for myself. He's the full alpha male package - strong, smart, sexy and sensitive. Maya was the right woman for him - patient, loving, strong and sexy Latina. I love that Ms. Fall created Maya as a heroine that anyone could identify with, regardless of ethnicity. She's someone I would be friends with.

What I didn't like: The story was too short! I would like to see future books featuring some of Landon's SEAL team buddies.

It was the perfect short read, to "cleanse my palate," as a study break from RN school. Sexy, emotional fun!
Profile Image for Jennifer Noe (The Book Blog).
201 reviews9 followers
May 11, 2013
I must say that Carly Fall knows how to pack a lot of story into a novella. And even though it was not a full length novel, it had ALL the right components for me to love it. Plus, she added a man in uniform!

Landon wants out of the SEALs in a bad way. The only thing he wants is to return to Maya and hopefully pick up where they left off all those months ago. Problem is, he has no idea if she would even want to see him. In his line of work, it’s not like he can pick up the phone and let her know he’s alright. At this point, I am already on his side. His feelings are deep and they are strong.

When we meet Maya, she is working at the resort where Landon always stays. Landon comes to her rescue when she get hassled by some drunk spring breakers. She’s confused, to put it mildly. Where has he been and how can he just show up and make her heart wake up again? I feel for Maya and I can understand her reluctance at starting a relationship with Landon. He could get a call at any time and he would have to leave at a moment’s notice.

Maya decides to go for it. Broken heart be damned. And, Landon completely earns his place in her heart. He will do whatever he can to keep it. This story was sexy, sweet and a mini adventure. I’m very glad I was introduced to Carly’s work!
Profile Image for Jessica.
185 reviews17 followers
May 21, 2013
This book was such a cute book. I love the story from beginning to end. A short story about a guy, Landon. Landon served many years as a Navy Seal. Seeing many people die, the images and nightmares that would not leave. Having no family made things easy to be gone for months at a time. Then Landon meets a girl, Maya. Thing didn't work out the way he wanted and had to go back to war. Not saying goodbye to her. He thought it would make things easier for her. Landon thought about Maya everyday for nine months. Finally back from war. He finds Maya. Maya has mixed feeling on how to feel about Landon. Landon not wanting to go back to war. He wants out. Maya doesn't know his plans. She loves him but don't want to give her whole heart to him in fear of losing him. Don't want her heart broken again. Knowing it will be that time when the phone ring and Landon has to leave for war. He knows he has two weeks before the call. Landon and Maya spends most of their time together. Passion heats up between them. Maya and Landon fall deeper for each other. Their future rest in the hands of his Commanding Officer Marty. Will Marty find a replacement in time before they have to deploy? You will have to read to find out. A Great Love Story.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
157 reviews31 followers
April 19, 2013
Landon “Blackhawk” Walker is ready to get out of the Navy SEALs. He has seen and done enough, and can’t wait to get to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico where three tasks await him: get back into civilian mode, take a boat out to the El Arco Rocks, and win back the heart of the woman he lost because of his career.

Maya Gonzalez has tired of the heartbreak that comes with Landon’s deployments year after year. When he walks back into her life, she cannot deny her heart, despite her reservations.

As they lose themselves in each other and the beauty of Cabo, their passion is rekindled once again, but Maya knows that one phone call means deployment for Landon, putting an end to their reunion, and possibly their relationship.

I loved this book! This is a great quick read. Loved both characters & found myself cheering for them all the way. This is the first book I've read by this author, but I'd love to read more.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
April 20, 2013

Right off I feel as though Landon is a decent guy, "But you listen to me," Landon said, "I love you like a brother from a different mother, but you work your a** off to find that replacement." He also seems to have suaveness about him, "well then, you need to come to dinner to find out more about me. I'm a fascinating guy." MHMM did I mention the tattoo he has? "The tattoo on his right shoulder was simply a skull and bones." I mean it seems he would do anything for Maya, "he smile. "We'll get room service." Hell, he would pluck down the moon and a star out of the sky for her if that was what she wanted." I want me a man like that, that will go to whatever depths to make me happy, it shows something about a man's character. I mean you can tell how deep he is in for this woman, "Sweet Jesus, Joseph, and Mary. Seeing her made him certain that there was a God, and based on the ugliness he had seen, he had sometimes doubted it."
Profile Image for Mindy.
643 reviews9 followers
May 1, 2013
So romantic and beautiful. I have friends in the military and I admire them greatly. The job they do is difficult, dangerous, and often lonely. The loneliness goes double for the family waiting at home. It is hard to be separated for long periods of time and the horrors of war and fighting leave a mark on those exposed to it that cannot be explained to anyone who has not experienced it.

Landon knows these things firsthand. In fact he has held Maya at arm’s length and refused to get serious because he didn’t want to put her through that. But this last tour took its toll and he wants out. But will Maya be willing to take him back again? After all these times is she finally ready to put them and him behind her?

I cried, laughed, and rejoiced in this book. I give this book 3.5 out of 5 clouds.

This product or book may have been distributed for review; this in no way affects my opinions or reviews
Profile Image for Kristina.
260 reviews70 followers
May 18, 2013
Chica Bella is a quick, enjoyable novella that is sexy, sweet, and emotional. This was the first story I've ever read that featured a soldier as the hero. It was very interesting and I will definitely read this type of book again. The characters in CB have great chemistry. I love that the setting was such a big part of the story- it gives the reader the feeling of sand between their toes and I could almost hear the waves. This would be a great read for out by the pool or on the beach. I think that it would have been even better if it had been longer. I would have loved to get to know more about the characters and their meetings in the past.

I will definitely be checking out some of Carly's other books!
Profile Image for Maria Lynn.
337 reviews145 followers
May 11, 2013
This novella could easily compete with a full size novel for content and win. I got so swept up in the story line that before I knew it I was on the last page. No details were spared in the creation of this amazing story about a Navy SEAL and the love of his life. The character development was perfect and made the characters come to life. The imagery transported me to Cabo instantly. In my opinion, when an author can write a short story that completely captivates you from beginning to end, that to me is a great testament of their talent and writing ability. This was my first experience reading something by Carly Fall but definitely not my last.
Profile Image for Crystal.
266 reviews5 followers
May 16, 2013
First off, this is a short read. Secondly, I really enjoyed it. Landon wants out of the military. He wants to spend his life loving Maya instead of fighting a war half way around the world. Maya wants nothing more than to know that Landon is safe and out of harms way. Now back at home and relaxing down in Cabo, Landon waits to hear if he is destined to fight one more time or if he is finally granted his wish. Chica Bella is such a relaxing read. Very descriptive and detailed, the reader can almost get the feeling of being down in Cabo poolside or dirt covered in Afghanistan. I would love to read the next install to this series very soon.
Profile Image for Autumn.
2,366 reviews47 followers
May 24, 2013
I received this book to give an honest review.

Awesome! This author sure knows how to pack a good sweet romance into a novella! I fell in love with this story from the beginning to the end, and Landon stole my heart he seemed so sweet and caring.

Landon is part of the Navy Seals and of course wants to get out once he finds love with Maya, Maya of course wants to be with him but she constantly worries about him when he leaves for his job. Of course what woman wouldn't?

Landon spends what time he has left before he is deployed again with Maya! But what will happen to their love? Will he even be deployed?

The ending to this story was perfect and I thought was a great way to end the book.
Profile Image for Jamie Turner-norton.
141 reviews12 followers
May 7, 2013
So this book was like 68 pages long, and had great descriptions of characters and areas. It was a sweet and hot but not an overly hot read. It does need a little bit of editing as some things were repeated. But not enough that it bugged the heck out of me. I did love the ending though and over all enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for Alex Reads.
27 reviews48 followers
May 21, 2013
I had the opportunity to read Chica Bella by Carly Fall. Let me tell you, it was really good. I liked that it was short and sweet, and it was written so well. I loved the story! I was a wonderful love story with suspense. I think my favorite character was Landon, because he is very protective, and loving at the same time. I give this book 4 out of 5 book-a-saur paws.
Profile Image for D.
761 reviews
May 19, 2013
3.5 stars review coming
Profile Image for Myra Espino .
1,167 reviews64 followers
May 14, 2013
3.5 stars..

Good story. Easy to read.


But I was kind of hoping to read more about the lead characters..
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,284 reviews207 followers
May 4, 2015
REVIEW: CHICA BELLA is another short story in the Honor Guard Series of novellas. This particular storyline is a contemporary romance novella about Navy SEAL Landon Walker and the decision he must make as to whether to return for a sixth tour of duty or remain behind and claim the woman who has stolen his heart.

Landon has given his commander two weeks-two weeks to find a replacement. Landon is tired of the blood; the death and the heartbreaking sorrow of war. Returning State side, Landon goes to the one place he hopes he will be welcomed with open arms. And if the woman he loves is willing to forgive him for breaking her heart, Landon will be willing to start a new life and a new career in the small Mexican resort town that has welcomed him home.

Chica Bella is a storyline that focuses on one man’s decision to put the horrors of war behind and face the possibility that it may be too late for his heart. Carly Fall pulls the reader into the storyline with our hero’s heartbreaking angst that the woman he loves may have moved on without him. But in true contemporary romance style, there will be a HEA but not before our heroine believes that she has come second-once again.

Copy supplied by the author.

see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com

Merged review:

ABOUT THE BOOK: Released April 3, 2013

Landon “Blackhawk” Walker is ready to get out of the Navy SEALs. He has seen and done enough, and can’t wait to get to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico where three tasks await him: get back into civilian mode, take a boat out to the El Arco Rocks, and win back the heart of the woman he lost because of his career.

Maya Gonzalez has tired of the heartbreak that comes with Landon’s deployments year after year. When he walks back into her life, she cannot deny her heart, despite her reservations.

As they lose themselves in each other and the beauty of Cabo, their passion is rekindled once again, but Maya knows that one phone call means deployment for Landon, putting an end to their reunion, and possibly their relationship.

REVIEW: CHICA BELLA is a short story in the Honor Guard Series of novellas. This particular storyline is a contemporary romance novella about Navy SEAL Landon Walker and the decision he must make as to whether to return for a sixth tour of duty or remain behind and claim the woman who has stolen his heart.

Landon has given his commander two weeks-two weeks to find a replacement. Landon is tired of the blood; the death and the heartbreaking sorrow of war. Returning State side, Landon goes to the one place he hopes he will be welcomed with open arms. And if the woman he loves is willing to forgive him for breaking her heart, Landon will be willing to start a new life and a new career in the small Mexican resort town that has welcomed him home.

Chica Bella is a storyline that focuses on one man’s decision to put the horrors of war behind and face the possibility that it may be too late for his heart. Carly Fall pulls the reader into the storyline with our hero’s heartbreaking angst that the woman he loves may have moved on without him. But in true contemporary romance style, there will be a HEA but not before our heroine believes that she has come second-once again. Chica Bella is a well-written short story perfect for a lazy afternoon.


Copy supplied by the author.
Profile Image for Tonya.
17 reviews1 follower
June 4, 2013
Landon "Blackhawk" Walker has been a Navy SEAL for far too long. Five tours of duty does something to the soul that words cant explain. And after this last tour, he wants out and to catch up on some sleep and find the one woman he loves. Thoughts of Maya are all that got him through the last eight months and eleven days!! Maya isnt sure she will ever see Landon again. Every time they get together its for a short time and then one phone call and hes gone. Her heart cant take anymore. But when Landon shows up at the bar where she works and asks her for a date that night, how can she say no?? His tall muscular frame and beautiful blue eyes send her heart into overdrive. Can she survive another heartbreak that will surely come when the call comes in??


This story was short but sweet!! I Loved Landon from page one, But who doesn't love a man in uniform?? He has been a SEAL for seventeen long years and has seen and done things we only hear about, and some we never will. He has his fair share of demons and bad dreams but when hes with Maya all that goes away. Now that he has told his C.O. that he wants out all that's left to do is hope Marty finds a replacement for him fast, and find Maya of course. He knows his heart belongs to her and she is his home. He just needs to tell her that. Maya is so sweet and loving. After the way Landon left her the last time, her heart is broken and she doesn't know if she can keep going through that with him. She loves him too much to keep watching him walk away knowing he is going off to war but never knowing where or for how long or when he will be back or if she will ever see him again. So when she sees him standing there at the bar she is so happy hes alive but still angry at the way he left. Then he asks her for a date, whats a girl to do??

I thought this story was a little short, but I enjoyed every last page of it!! I couldn't put it down. The love scenes where steamy but gentle and loving at the same time. The lengths Landon goes to to show Maya he wants to be with her are so sweet. Its the little things that count and he shows her that. But what happens when he leaves again? Do they pick up where they left off? Does she tell him to take a hike? Does love really conquer all? I guess you will just have to read it to find out what happens with the Sexy Soldier and The Beautiful Mexican girl. You wont be disappointed! I wasn't!! I would have to give Chica Bella 4 Stars! Muy Bueno!!
Profile Image for Gaele.
4,076 reviews85 followers
October 15, 2013
A contemporary romance that focuses on a happy ever after the horrors of the war zone, Carly Fall’s Chica Bella is a delicious story with heart and hope. Landon has spent the past 17 years as a Navy Seal, with multiple tours in Afghanistan, and spent more than his share of days away from civilization and the potential for family and love. He is tired, down to his soul. In the past 3 years, the only bright spot has been the time spent in Cabo between assignments: made sweeter by a bartender with chocolate brown eyes only for him.

Maya works at the resort that Landon has frequented these past years, their connection is palpable and even better; they actually can and do talk about everything, honestly. Landon has never stayed in touch when he’s left suddenly: she never knows when, or if, he will return.

An unexpected return, after she had gone through all of the stages of loss put Landon in her sights: as much as she wants to be angry, she can see the strain in Landon’s eyes, beneath the passion blazing there.

A different viewpoint of the soldier returning from the war, Landon is so determined to shield Maya from the inevitable heartbreak he feels he will bring, even as he spends more time than is good for him thinking about her. While he has requested retirement, he also knows that if that wish can’t be fulfilled, he will do his duty. Not laden with a great deal of angst or even war-related flashbacks, the story proceeds as a sweet seduction, even though the players know each other well enough to anticipate needs and wants. Steamy moments filled with emotion and heart; leaving the reader with a smile on their face.

I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Profile Image for Chu.
1,459 reviews72 followers
December 9, 2013
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Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak

Rating:3.5 Stars

A SEAL who is ready to give up his duties, a woman who is tired of being left , and one exotic place = Chica Bella.


Landon “Blackhawk” Walker is tired. He is in his 30s but felt like he is in his 70s. He is tired of deployment, of witnessing the horrors that war can inflict on a person. He thinks he had done his duty to his country, and it was time to do his duty to himself. He can’t wait to go to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and win back the heart of the woman he left behind because of duty.


A beautiful local, Maya Gonzales is tired of waiting. She’s tired of waiting for Landon, for the news of him, for being fearful for his life. She’s tired of getting her heart broken the moment he leaves again for his deployment. She swore, she would never let him in her life again. But the moment she saw him back in town – the old feelings, starts to come back. She couldn’t deny the attraction, emotions and the tension that is simmering between them. So despite her best judgment, and hesitations – she once again let him in.


Once again, their passion has been renewed as they spent every single waking moment enjoying themselves in this magical place. But Maya had left her heart guarded because she knew, it would just take one phone call for him to pack his bags and once again leave her behind.


Set in a romantic vacation spot, Chica Bella is a short, hot and romantic read. It’s a story of love, sacrifice and second chances.

★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
Profile Image for Winding Stairs Book Blog.
179 reviews6 followers
May 13, 2013
3.5 Stars

This was a great quick read. Very sweet and a little steamy. Perfect combo in my world.

Landon is a Navy Seal and is more than ready to leave the job he has dedicated himself to for the past 17 years. It's time for him to settle and put down some roots. He is determined to find the girl he left behind and persuade her to forgive him for leaving her so many times. Not only just leaving, but never calling her during his tours. Maya sat around waiting and worrying while he was away. The more she worried the angrier she got.

"It's safer for her, and for me, if no one knows where I'm at. I couldn't talk to her, but I never stopped thinking about her."

Even knowing the silence was for security reasons, it cut her very deep. She was terrified to open herself back up to him for fear of him leaving her again.

"I'm so angry that I haven't heard from you in almost a year, but yet I'm happy to see you. I want to run away, but I want to be with you."

I'm not sure I could live the military lifestyle. Not knowing if the one you love is injured or worse would be so horrible. I totally get why she was so angry at him, however I felt she forgave him a little too quickly. Although this was a novella I think there needed to be a lot more groveling on his part. I was missing more of a build up to them "rekindling" their romance. Otherwise this was great read.
Profile Image for Jodie.
223 reviews26 followers
June 15, 2013
“Maya, it’s always you . It’s thinking of you that made me want to stay alive. It’s the thought of your smile, your face, your body up against mine that kept me warm at night, the sound of your laughter that made me smile when I felt like I couldn’t smile again. Maya….”

This was a HOT Novella and really who doesn’t love a man in Uniform who can make your heart melt like that? Ummm Yeah that’s what I thought and Landon "Blackhawk" Walker fills that description perfectly. Maya and Landon are HOT together and they have everything in a love story but Landon had to walk away more than once because of his dedication to the Navy Seals. Now he is back on a two week leave and he wants Maya back but she is terrified of taking that step, terrified what it will do to watch him walk away again.

“Neither us were thinking. That’s what we do to each other. It is like our brains turn off when we’re together.”

This Novella was perfection it is short, sweet and HOT as HELL!!! Carly did a wonderful job of giving you a complete story and had me completely consumed with want for these two characters to be together. This was my first Carly Fall experience and I will say I am definitely a new fan!! And I absolutely think everyone needs to meet Landon.

“I think you need to persuade me.”

Well Landon can do that in fact….

“My persuasion techniques are very effective in the shower,” he said with a smile.
Profile Image for Bookaholics Blog.
27 reviews65 followers
June 16, 2013
Landon “Blackhawk” Walker is ready to get out of the Navy SEALs. He has seen and done enough, and can’t wait to get to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico where three tasks await him: get back into civilian mode, take a boat out to the El Arco Rocks, and win back the heart of the woman he lost because of his career.

Maya Gonzalez has tired of the heartbreak that comes with Landon’s deployments year after year. When he walks back into her life, she cannot deny her heart, despite her reservations.

As they lose themselves in each other and the beauty of Cabo, their passion is rekindled once again, but Maya knows that one phone call means deployment for Landon, putting an end to their reunion, and possibly their relationship.


I found this novella to be very true to the facts. I have soldiers in my family and it is a very tough life for them. Landon is an absolute sweetheart. He is kind, loving, protective and sexy. Who can turn that down? Obviously, Maya has a hard time because every time he surfaces she falls head over heals in love with him again and again. The last time he was abrubtly call back to work left her heart broken. Maya is so sweet you will just love her and her English will give you a chuckle. I don't want to elaborate too much into this, like I said it is a novella and I don't believe in giving out spoilers.

This is a wonderful light hearted read that you will fall in love with. I did and this is one that will stay with me for a long time to come.
Profile Image for Julie Ramsey.
Author 2 books34 followers
June 1, 2013
Chica Bella
by
Carly Fall

Landon “Blackhawk” Walker is ready to get out of the Navy SEALs. He has seen and done enough, and can’t wait to get to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico where three tasks await him: get back into civilian mode, take a boat out to the El Arco Rocks, and win back the heart of the woman he lost because of his career.

Maya Gonzalez has tired of the heartbreak that comes with Landon’s deployments year after year. When he walks back into her life, she cannot deny her heart, despite her reservations.

As they lose themselves in each other and the beauty of Cabo, their passion is rekindled once again, but Maya knows that one phone call means deployment for Landon, putting an end to their reunion, and possibly their relationship.

I loved this book! This is a great quick read. Loved both characters & found myself cheering for them all the way. This is the first book I've read by this author, but I'd love to read more.

I rate this book 4 stars.

Jennifer Wadkins

complimentary book given for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
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