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DIY Divas Military Romance
Surprise Valentine
Kali hates Valentine's Day. The one time she took a chance on a guy, he left her in the dust for another woman.
To her, there's nothing more humiliating than finding her boyfriend making out with someone else on what was supposed to be their date. So Kali swore off men and buried herself in her design work...again.
Her high-end interior decorating clients keep her busy, but life has become monotonous. On a video chat with her long-time friends, she figures out where she went wrong in life. Yet Kali refuses to believe the promises of men. But when a new customer hires her to decorate his house for, of all the holidays, Valentine's Day, Kali finds herself in a complicated position.
Jorian Delaney made Miss Kali Lanel a promise before he even saw her for the first time. Upon their meeting, wanting more time with her, he changes his plan and hires her for a party he hasn't yet arranged. Now he's stuck frantically gathering friends while hiding his interest from her. It's pretty clear she's not going to accept a date. And Jorian knows all too well why.
Her cheating ex-boyfriend is from his platoon. They used to be best friends. Jorian's attempt to cheer her up has ended in a confession, making her more miserable. He's pretty sure she now officially hates his guts. But he can't bring himself to retract the contract. He has limited time at home before his next deployment. And Kali is too good at her job. She's driven, self-made, a touch fiery, and simply put...perfect.
Will Kali learn to trust Jorian? Or will Jorian be forced to throw a party he doesn't care for and be stuck without a date?
To her, there's nothing more humiliating than finding her boyfriend making out with someone else on what was supposed to be their date. So Kali swore off men and buried herself in her design work...again.
Her high-end interior decorating clients keep her busy, but life has become monotonous. On a video chat with her long-time friends, she figures out where she went wrong in life. Yet Kali refuses to believe the promises of men. But when a new customer hires her to decorate his house for, of all the holidays, Valentine's Day, Kali finds herself in a complicated position.
Jorian Delaney made Miss Kali Lanel a promise before he even saw her for the first time. Upon their meeting, wanting more time with her, he changes his plan and hires her for a party he hasn't yet arranged. Now he's stuck frantically gathering friends while hiding his interest from her. It's pretty clear she's not going to accept a date. And Jorian knows all too well why.
Her cheating ex-boyfriend is from his platoon. They used to be best friends. Jorian's attempt to cheer her up has ended in a confession, making her more miserable. He's pretty sure she now officially hates his guts. But he can't bring himself to retract the contract. He has limited time at home before his next deployment. And Kali is too good at her job. She's driven, self-made, a touch fiery, and simply put...perfect.
Will Kali learn to trust Jorian? Or will Jorian be forced to throw a party he doesn't care for and be stuck without a date?
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2024
27 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Elysia Lumen Strife
30 books132 followersElysia Strife is a self-published author of sweet holiday romance as well as scifi novels. If you're looking for her science fiction, please visit that profile here: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Amazon bestselling author Elysia Strife is best known for her sweet (often clean) holiday romance with tough but humble male leads and feisty but kind-hearted women. If you're looking for a cozy read with lots of treats, snuggles, a touch of humor, and happily ever afters, you're in the right place. Strife designs her books to be uplifting and inspirational escapes.
Her work typically features small towns, country settings, Christmas themes, and chivalrous characters who sometimes swear and get themselves into and out of suspenseful situations. Strife often pulls from her experience in the U.S. Air Force when writing her military characters and tense situations but always prefers her stories are tied up with a bow by the end.
She enjoys reading on rainy and snowy mornings with a Christmas-scented candle burning and a fire going, even if it’s just the fake one in her RV. Her stories are inspired by the strengths and sacrifices of those around her and fueled by caramel macchiatos and Twinkies.
Strife lives with an amazing man who can build anything he puts his mind to and a rescued dog that steals socks and chases the vacuum. Together, they travel the country—from the golden plains of North Dakota to the warm ocean of the southern Texas coast and back to the green valleys and vineyards of Oregon. Anywhere is home as long as they’re together.
If you’d like to know when Strife’s next books will be out, and to ensure you have access to her free review copies and other giveaways, visit her website: http://elstrife.com/embers-on-ice and subscribe.
Amazon bestselling author Elysia Strife is best known for her sweet (often clean) holiday romance with tough but humble male leads and feisty but kind-hearted women. If you're looking for a cozy read with lots of treats, snuggles, a touch of humor, and happily ever afters, you're in the right place. Strife designs her books to be uplifting and inspirational escapes.
Her work typically features small towns, country settings, Christmas themes, and chivalrous characters who sometimes swear and get themselves into and out of suspenseful situations. Strife often pulls from her experience in the U.S. Air Force when writing her military characters and tense situations but always prefers her stories are tied up with a bow by the end.
She enjoys reading on rainy and snowy mornings with a Christmas-scented candle burning and a fire going, even if it’s just the fake one in her RV. Her stories are inspired by the strengths and sacrifices of those around her and fueled by caramel macchiatos and Twinkies.
Strife lives with an amazing man who can build anything he puts his mind to and a rescued dog that steals socks and chases the vacuum. Together, they travel the country—from the golden plains of North Dakota to the warm ocean of the southern Texas coast and back to the green valleys and vineyards of Oregon. Anywhere is home as long as they’re together.
If you’d like to know when Strife’s next books will be out, and to ensure you have access to her free review copies and other giveaways, visit her website: http://elstrife.com/embers-on-ice and subscribe.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 21, 2024
Kali Lanel owns her own design company. She has a group of girlfriends who all own their own businesses and they video chat each week to keep in touch. A year ago, she caught her boyfriend Bradley cheating on her so now she is alone as Valentine’s Day approaches.
Jorian Delaney has been friends with Bradley Crasher since middle school. Jorian has always smoothed over any issues Bradley causes including apologizing to his ex-girlfriends when Bradley treats them badly. They were deployed together and are now heading home. He likes Kali and feels bad that Bradley cheated on her. However, he wants to go meet Kali in person. He has read about her and checked out her website and decides to ask her to help him decorate his house and get it ready so he can throw a Valentine’s party for his fellow soldiers and their families. He figures this is the best way to get to know her before he tells her that he and Bradley are in the same platoon.
Great start to this series. I always love strong female characters and I can’t wait to meet the rest of Kali’s friend group.
Jorian Delaney has been friends with Bradley Crasher since middle school. Jorian has always smoothed over any issues Bradley causes including apologizing to his ex-girlfriends when Bradley treats them badly. They were deployed together and are now heading home. He likes Kali and feels bad that Bradley cheated on her. However, he wants to go meet Kali in person. He has read about her and checked out her website and decides to ask her to help him decorate his house and get it ready so he can throw a Valentine’s party for his fellow soldiers and their families. He figures this is the best way to get to know her before he tells her that he and Bradley are in the same platoon.
Great start to this series. I always love strong female characters and I can’t wait to meet the rest of Kali’s friend group.
February 17, 2024
Surprise Valentine is a clean, heartwarming, inspirational romance! This extremely well written book is a tremendous start for Ms. Strife’s new series. I was totally swept up into Kali’s and Jorian’s world and romance. I could not read fast enough, but I did not want to reach the end. Ms. Strife’s books always capture my heart but this one may be my absolute favorite. The book deals with some heavy topics very realistically. I love these military wives who own their own businesses. Family is what you make it! I wish there were more than five stars available!
February 17, 2024
4.5 Stars
I wasn't sure what to expect with a 'military romance' but I'm so glad I picked up the book!
Sure there were a couple of military terms I struggled to sort out (I eventually got all but one) as that's not my world and my dad doesn't talk much about his time in the service, but I was impressed at how relatable Strife created her characters. They were human (as opposed to super-human) with kindness and struggles and questions - just like real people. Definitely going to look for more in this series and more from Strife overall.
I received an ARC; this is my honest review.
I wasn't sure what to expect with a 'military romance' but I'm so glad I picked up the book!
Sure there were a couple of military terms I struggled to sort out (I eventually got all but one) as that's not my world and my dad doesn't talk much about his time in the service, but I was impressed at how relatable Strife created her characters. They were human (as opposed to super-human) with kindness and struggles and questions - just like real people. Definitely going to look for more in this series and more from Strife overall.
I received an ARC; this is my honest review.
February 25, 2024
I definitely enjoyed this clean military romance between Kali and Jorian! They’re both busy workaholics whose first meeting is complicated by Kali’s ex, whom Jorian works with. But sparks fly and I enjoyed Jorian’s kindness and generosity towards Kali, as well as the touches of Chinese culture in the story from Kali’s background. I thought the romance was sweet and well done as well as the plot. Both characters were strong and well-developed. Thank you to the author for my ARC; all opinions are mine.
March 15, 2024
This was the first book I have read by Elysia and it won't be the last. This was a breath of fresh air. It's a well written military romance. I have been getting into the military romance books lately and this one was wonderful. I love when someone writes characters that you can care about and a story that holds your attention. I thought this was a quick read. I would definitely recommend this book and look forward to Elysia's next book.
Thank you Elysia Lumen Strife for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
Thank you Elysia Lumen Strife for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
March 25, 2024
This was an interesting military romance with a bit of suspense thrown in. Kept this reader interested and the author had a way of helping the reader feel the emotions of the characters especially the soul searching parts.
Lovely happily ever after and look forward to more stories in this series.
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy from the author and this is my own opinion, given voluntarily.
Lovely happily ever after and look forward to more stories in this series.
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy from the author and this is my own opinion, given voluntarily.
June 16, 2024
A sweet, surprising romance to jumpstart the series.
Kali and Jorian develop strong bonds, as they learn to embrace opportunities, realizing mutual respect and support for each other leads to a positive, healthy relationship.
Time is short, so allowing good memories to keep you going is fundamental to acquiring respect and love for each other.
Life is all about learning to do what you love and being happy with who you are.
Kali and Jorian develop strong bonds, as they learn to embrace opportunities, realizing mutual respect and support for each other leads to a positive, healthy relationship.
Time is short, so allowing good memories to keep you going is fundamental to acquiring respect and love for each other.
Life is all about learning to do what you love and being happy with who you are.
February 16, 2024
I really enjoyed this first book in a new series. Kali and Jorian make an interesting couple. Jorian immediately falls for Kali who was badly hurt in the past and very leery of getting involved with anyone. Kali is a wonderful character that cares for everyone. Great story and I can’t wait for the next one. I received a fr33 copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.
February 25, 2024
Kali: A self employed woman trying to build her business but neglects to take time for herself.
Jorian: A soldier wishing to start a relationship with Kali, in spite of never meeting her in person.
The story keeps you hooked as Kali and Jorian get to know each other, and their "support systems" cheer them on.
I really enjoyed this book and how each of the main characters care more for helping people than they do about being a self absorbed person.
I was provided with a copy of the book and this review is my honest opinion.
Jorian: A soldier wishing to start a relationship with Kali, in spite of never meeting her in person.
The story keeps you hooked as Kali and Jorian get to know each other, and their "support systems" cheer them on.
I really enjoyed this book and how each of the main characters care more for helping people than they do about being a self absorbed person.
I was provided with a copy of the book and this review is my honest opinion.
March 5, 2024
Reading Surprise Valentine was a surprise. I just loved the characters and storyline. Kali does not believe in Valentine's Day, since her ex boyfriend broke her heart. She will continue to hate all men and give 120 per cent to her business. Jorian tries to right a wrong, that his friend and fellow soldier has done to his women. One of those ladies is Kali. But this one is different.
May 16, 2024
A well written perfectly paced story pulling you in from the start. Kali is trying to get her business off the ground and dealing with making time for herself and friends. Jorian has been dealing with keeping his best friend out of trouble but protecting them at the same time. This is how Kali helps Jorian with a party he plans.
July 29, 2024
I love stories about military men/women. Their struggles are real, and this book shows that. One of his (Brad) brothers in arms (Jorian) realized what the problem was with him and requested that he be given the help he needed.
This is a must read. You won't be disappointed.
I received a free ARC, and this is my honest opinion.
This is a must read. You won't be disappointed.
I received a free ARC, and this is my honest opinion.
February 21, 2024
Kali had been through so much and Jorian knew it. He really loved Kali and treated her so good. He just wanted to spend time with her. I loved how their story developed. This was a great story to read on Valentine's Day.
February 1, 2025
Surprise Valentine (DIY Divas Military Romance Book 1) by Elysia Strife – This was an Amazon freebie. So the MMC’s name is Jorian, and I kept having Sarah J Maas associations that were giggle worthy. But this was a sweet military romance perfect for Valentine’s Day! Happy Reading!
February 25, 2024
Excellent book! This is the first time I have read a book by this author! I definitely will read more!
June 6, 2024
Amazing
I absolutely love the ending. It was great to see where their story was going to end. It was a pleasure to read.
I absolutely love the ending. It was great to see where their story was going to end. It was a pleasure to read.
March 29, 2024
Loved this military romance
I fell in love with Jorian and Kali's story. Characters that you can care about and a story that holds your attention makes a book that is hard to put down. I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
I fell in love with Jorian and Kali's story. Characters that you can care about and a story that holds your attention makes a book that is hard to put down. I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
February 3, 2025
Clean Standalone Romantic Suspense Interconnected Series HEA
TRIGGER WARNING: Deals with PTSD and some other mental health issues and loss of a child Kali is an event planner and interior designer who hates Valentine's Day. She was hurt by one to many soldiers, and tired of being left behind, or expected to drop everything for the military. When Jorian comes in, he hires her to decorate his home and plan a party. But he has ulterior motives. What are all of his secrets? Is he too good to be true? Should she trust her heart to another soldier? This is the first book Interconnected through a group of friends who all grew up in military families. It deals with a lot of heavy topics that are realistic. Tissues are recommended.
I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.
TRIGGER WARNING: Deals with PTSD and some other mental health issues and loss of a child Kali is an event planner and interior designer who hates Valentine's Day. She was hurt by one to many soldiers, and tired of being left behind, or expected to drop everything for the military. When Jorian comes in, he hires her to decorate his home and plan a party. But he has ulterior motives. What are all of his secrets? Is he too good to be true? Should she trust her heart to another soldier? This is the first book Interconnected through a group of friends who all grew up in military families. It deals with a lot of heavy topics that are realistic. Tissues are recommended.
I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews