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The Only One #2
The Only One Who Matters
No man—and no heart—left behind.
The Only One, Book 2
Months after a bullet ended his SEAL career, Senior Chief David Flint doesn’t know which is struggling to adjust to life as a civilian, or watching his lover, Lieutenant Commander Josh Walker, leave for one deployment after another.
Missing the career he loved—and knowing all too well the danger Josh faces—doesn’t help. And as Josh walks out the door for another assignment, David can feel their relationship cracking under the strain.
With so little time between assignments, Josh has no idea how to fix things with David. One thing he’s sure of, though…if they don’t find a way to resolve the rising tension between them, there’s a storm coming they might not be able to weather. But he plans to give it his best shot—when he gets home.
Assuming he makes it home alive…
Contains plenty of smoking-hot sex between two dudes who just wanted to be SEALs, not deal with all this romance crap. They went and fell in love anyway, and now have to figure out how to make it work while saving the world and teaching their puppy not to beg.
183 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2014
32 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
About the author
Cat Grant
51 books462 followersIf you're looking for epic sci-fi, fantasy, or historicals, that's not me. Contemporary all the way, baby!
However, if you're looking for down to earth, complicated characters dealing with real-world problems (and the occasional comfort read!), I might just fit the bill. :)
My Books:
Courtland Chronicles (m/m & m/m/f)
By Chance
Strictly Business
Complications
The Arrangement
Triad
Allegro Vivace (m/m)
Sonata Appassionata (m/m)
Icon Men (all m/m)
The First Real Thing (2012 EPIC Award Winner - Erotica)
Appearing Nightly
A Fool for You
Habanera (Originally titled Entangled Trio - 2012 EPIC Award Finalist - Erotica) (m/m/f)
Once a Marine (m/m)
Power Play (with Rachel Haimowitz) (m/m BDSM)
Power Play: Resistance
Power Play: Awakening
Irresistible Attraction (all m/m)
Priceless
Doubtless
Fearless
Flawless (2014 EPIC Award Finalist - Short Fiction)
Forthcoming:
The Only One Who Knows (with LA Witt) - January 2014
The Only One Who Matters (with LA Witt) - March 2014
Black Dog (Bannon's Gym #1) - April 2014
Takedown (Bannon's Gym #2) - July 2014
Guarded (with LA Witt) (work in progress)
However, if you're looking for down to earth, complicated characters dealing with real-world problems (and the occasional comfort read!), I might just fit the bill. :)
My Books:
Courtland Chronicles (m/m & m/m/f)
By Chance
Strictly Business
Complications
The Arrangement
Triad
Allegro Vivace (m/m)
Sonata Appassionata (m/m)
Icon Men (all m/m)
The First Real Thing (2012 EPIC Award Winner - Erotica)
Appearing Nightly
A Fool for You
Habanera (Originally titled Entangled Trio - 2012 EPIC Award Finalist - Erotica) (m/m/f)
Once a Marine (m/m)
Power Play (with Rachel Haimowitz) (m/m BDSM)
Power Play: Resistance
Power Play: Awakening
Irresistible Attraction (all m/m)
Priceless
Doubtless
Fearless
Flawless (2014 EPIC Award Finalist - Short Fiction)
Forthcoming:
The Only One Who Knows (with LA Witt) - January 2014
The Only One Who Matters (with LA Witt) - March 2014
Black Dog (Bannon's Gym #1) - April 2014
Takedown (Bannon's Gym #2) - July 2014
Guarded (with LA Witt) (work in progress)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
March 29, 2021
There are definitely some weird gaps in this one. ABRUPT. It's more like 3.5 stars rounded up. I already ordered the last one, paid for it too, despite the low scores.
The abruptness is suddenly the epilogue of HEA (marriage anyway) where the last chapter ended and throughout it seemed --that there was no resolution to the couple's issues in sight. PTSD and continuous deployments don't get solved overnight. It seemed really rushed and random at parts.
But I still like the characters. Just missing the hotness of the first book. Seems like their roles flipped in some ways which I'm not too fond of.
The abruptness is suddenly the epilogue of HEA (marriage anyway) where the last chapter ended and throughout it seemed --that there was no resolution to the couple's issues in sight. PTSD and continuous deployments don't get solved overnight. It seemed really rushed and random at parts.
But I still like the characters. Just missing the hotness of the first book. Seems like their roles flipped in some ways which I'm not too fond of.
November 17, 2014
Rating: 2.5 stars
This book didn't make much sense to me. It's pretty much a "trouble in paradise" sequel to The Only One Who Knows filled with predictable drama and bad editing. So let me just list my issues with this book:
* Someone get this book an editor. Please. Missing words, repeated words, verb tense issues. Granted, it wasn't like every page had a blaring error, but I've had to reread sentences enough times that it bugged me moderately.
* How the heck is Flint only 40 years old?! He spent four years in academy, 6 years in the marines, and spent about 22 years in the navy according to the first book. That would clearly put him well into his forties. Plus, his whole attitude and way of speech signified a man around that age as well. But here? It mentions how he spent almost twenty years serving in the navy. WTF? I felt like someone told me 2 plus 2 is 22.
* The whole issue of PTSD. It doesn't make sense that the actual event which caused one of the characters to develop PTSD is glossed over. In fact, you are aware of the event after it happened. So when said character developed this very debilitating psychological disorder, I couldn't really feel like I cared. You want me to sympathize with the character? Then make me experience their pain. Don't just tell me!
* Pacing issues with not enough emphasis being placed on the events that really mattered. There were moments (a lot) that I kept thinking, "Why are we spending this much time on this event?"
* Didn't care for any of the secondary characters.
* The relationship. Flint and Josh were good in the first book. But they spent so much time in opposition to one another in this book that I just wanted it to be over. Ugh.
So what can I say is good about this book? Well, I liked the ending. That has to count for something, right? Granted, this wasn't a BAD book. I just wished it was just as good as its predecessor.
This book didn't make much sense to me. It's pretty much a "trouble in paradise" sequel to The Only One Who Knows filled with predictable drama and bad editing. So let me just list my issues with this book:
* Someone get this book an editor. Please. Missing words, repeated words, verb tense issues. Granted, it wasn't like every page had a blaring error, but I've had to reread sentences enough times that it bugged me moderately.
* How the heck is Flint only 40 years old?! He spent four years in academy, 6 years in the marines, and spent about 22 years in the navy according to the first book. That would clearly put him well into his forties. Plus, his whole attitude and way of speech signified a man around that age as well. But here? It mentions how he spent almost twenty years serving in the navy. WTF? I felt like someone told me 2 plus 2 is 22.
* The whole issue of PTSD. It doesn't make sense that the actual event which caused one of the characters to develop PTSD is glossed over. In fact, you are aware of the event after it happened. So when said character developed this very debilitating psychological disorder, I couldn't really feel like I cared. You want me to sympathize with the character? Then make me experience their pain. Don't just tell me!
* Pacing issues with not enough emphasis being placed on the events that really mattered. There were moments (a lot) that I kept thinking, "Why are we spending this much time on this event?"
* Didn't care for any of the secondary characters.
* The relationship. Flint and Josh were good in the first book. But they spent so much time in opposition to one another in this book that I just wanted it to be over. Ugh.
So what can I say is good about this book? Well, I liked the ending. That has to count for something, right? Granted, this wasn't a BAD book. I just wished it was just as good as its predecessor.
March 18, 2014
OMG. The end! *swoons*
March 15, 2014
Review by The Blogger Girls.
I absolutely loved the first book in this series and fell in love with Josh and Flint right from the get go. They faced quite a few challenges back then, and that has not lessened any this time around.
Now, Flint, or David as he is now a civilian, is having a lot of trouble coming to grips with the ending of his SEAL career and acclimating to his new life. He is at a bit of a loss as he recuperates from his injury and tries to figure out what he will do with his life. Added to this is the fact that Josh is still enlisted and going on dangerous assignments. David has never been on this end of things, stuck at home and waiting for any news of his loved one, yet knowing full well what Josh faces while deployed. This is really starting to take a toll on their relationship, of which they are both aware. Unfortunately, Josh is not home long enough for them to really do anything about it, so things just sort of sit in limbo until he returns.
In the meantime, David is adjusting, with the help of a team member’s family. They have kind of adopted each other, with David stepping in to help with the kids and pregnant wife while that team member is deployed. It was fun watching David struggle a bit with being around the kids and having to step up to the plate to care for them. I liked watching his comfort level grow little by little as they became more and more important for them. It also really helped David to understand and share the emotions as they commiserated over their deployed partners.
Josh does quite a bit of growing up in this book. Even though they still struggle with communication issues, they are both aware there are issues that must be addressed. I was really pulling for these guys to get through things, especially when Josh finally returns and has to deal with PTSD issues on top of everything else. For some reason, this installment felt so real to me, with the problems they each faced from different sides of the fence. I felt so much for each of them for different reasons and was hanging on for them to really join together and be there for each other. It is clear how much they love and mean to each other even when things aren’t going perfectly for them. This book especially gives you a real sense of some of what military families go through every day.
I love this writing team and they quickly became an auto read for me. While I do really enjoy both on their own, when working together, it is like a double whammy. The stories are solid and well written, pulling various emotions from me in the process. When I begin reading, no sooner am I starting that I find myself at the end and longing for more. This book was no exception. I hope this isn’t the last we will see of David and Josh, but, either way, I know I’ll be excited for where ever the next adventure will take us.
April 14, 2014
This sequel to The Only One Who Knows should be read after the first book - there is a lot of both character and plot in the first volume that informs this story. In that book, two strong, capable and independent Navy SEALs began a relationship, in the shadow of obstacles of their differing ranks and the institutionalized homophobia of the military. This continues their story. *This review contains spoilers for the first book*
.
If anything, I liked this book more. We get a lot of stories about men in the military, dealing with deployment and enemies, teammate issues and regulations. Here, we have the story of the man left behind. Flint is medically retired, against his will. He would like nothing more than to go with Josh when he deploys, but instead he has to trust his lover's safety to his teammates, including a couple of new men he doesn't know. His own experience in the field only makes his imagination worse. Plus he's dealing with being physically handicapped, although healing, after a lifetime when his highly-toned body was his first and last line of defense. It's hard, and Flint doesn't always take it well.
For Josh, being a SEAL is still everything he wants as a career. But now he has a new perspective on the men who face each mission knowing they are leaving family behind.
This one felt a little deeper, the emotions more salient, and the story less predictable. It very nicely took the early HFN of the first book and moved the guys through to a more solid ending. I'll probably reread this series again sometime.
.
If anything, I liked this book more. We get a lot of stories about men in the military, dealing with deployment and enemies, teammate issues and regulations. Here, we have the story of the man left behind. Flint is medically retired, against his will. He would like nothing more than to go with Josh when he deploys, but instead he has to trust his lover's safety to his teammates, including a couple of new men he doesn't know. His own experience in the field only makes his imagination worse. Plus he's dealing with being physically handicapped, although healing, after a lifetime when his highly-toned body was his first and last line of defense. It's hard, and Flint doesn't always take it well.
For Josh, being a SEAL is still everything he wants as a career. But now he has a new perspective on the men who face each mission knowing they are leaving family behind.
This one felt a little deeper, the emotions more salient, and the story less predictable. It very nicely took the early HFN of the first book and moved the guys through to a more solid ending. I'll probably reread this series again sometime.
May 4, 2016
(Just a WARNING, but since this book is the second in the series, this review is going to have some pretty big spoilers for book one, The Only One Who Knows. If you haven’t read book one (and you really should) it might be a good idea to give this a miss until you are caught up. Thanks.)
Both men have survived North Korea, more or less intact. They are both alive, in love, and no one’s career is going to go down in flames of shame and misconduct. But David’s injury means his life as a Navy SEAL is over, and adjusting to life as the significant other of a military man is becoming a bigger challenge than either David or Josh believed. Turns out watching the man you love willingly walk into danger is a lot more stressful when you can’t walk that road with him.
The stress of separation is wearing on both men, and no matter how much they love each other, if they can’t learn to talk, and to change, then nothing is going to weather this newest roadblock in their relationship. David and Josh have never taken the easy way out, but is staying worth the pain of seeing the man you love hurt so badly?
If how much I like a book can be measured in how difficult it is to put a book down, I have to say this series earns top marks. I had only intended to start this series, maybe get a few chapter read, earlier this week–-six hours later I was wrapping up The Only One Who Matters and seriously bemoaning the fact that I didn’t have another book in the series to read.
I haven’t read many military-themed books lately. I just haven’t been in the mood, I guess. But mood or not, these books just struck a chord with everything (I didn’t know) I was looking for. Fast-paced action, secret romances, forbidden love, and two characters who can handily avoid clichés as well as the bullets of the men who are hunting them down.
When we hit this book Josh and David have been going at their new relationship for about a half a year. David is doing better with his rehab, and Josh is still leading the team into the corners of the world. They have moved into a house together, and have navigated pretty successfully all those little things that make living together a test of trial and error. But cracks are definitely starting to show, because each time Josh leaves, David knows exactly what kind of danger he is walking into.
I have to say that I loved how this book handled the issues of being the one married to a military man. Most books I have read either have both men in the military together, or have both men mostly stateside together, for most of the book. This book does a lot in showing just how stressful it can be to watch the person you love walk out the door and leave you not knowing if they will ever walk back in. And even more importantly, it shows how difficult it is when they do walk back in. How the stress of not only knowing that the reprieve is temporary, but of them having parts of their lives and mind that are wounded in a way that can’t do much to heal.
Secrets are necessary (and sometimes mandated by law) between David and Josh, but the lives they lead separate from each other is putting stress on the cracks forming between them. Love is not enough when it is the loving that is hurting the other person. I felt it was good that they both realized that what they had could actually end if they didn’t talk. If they didn’t try to find a place where Josh didn’t feel pressured to leave the job he loves, and David doesn’t feel the stress of knowing that every moment they have together comes with a stop-date. Or that everything they do only serves as a reminder of what David can no longer be.
The way that this book played off the ideas of love and loss, was very well done. It didn’t let Josh and David rest in their happy(ish)-ever-after. It made them work their way through all the tough stuff they expected, and a few things that they never wanted to have to deal with. This story tested them, and came very close to finding them wanting. But by the end, I was so very happy. And when Josh catches sight of David, in that epilogue, I was smiling so damn much. These boys may not how to do anything the easy way, but they know how to get it done. And I enjoyed watching them do it.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Josh sighed and crushed his cigarette under his shoe. He was exhausted. He loved David so much it hurt, but was that enough? And even if it was, how much longer could either of them deal with this tug of war between Josh’s career and David’s grief over losing his own?
“I’m just not sure if I can handle this.”
I know the feeling, David.
Both men have survived North Korea, more or less intact. They are both alive, in love, and no one’s career is going to go down in flames of shame and misconduct. But David’s injury means his life as a Navy SEAL is over, and adjusting to life as the significant other of a military man is becoming a bigger challenge than either David or Josh believed. Turns out watching the man you love willingly walk into danger is a lot more stressful when you can’t walk that road with him.
The stress of separation is wearing on both men, and no matter how much they love each other, if they can’t learn to talk, and to change, then nothing is going to weather this newest roadblock in their relationship. David and Josh have never taken the easy way out, but is staying worth the pain of seeing the man you love hurt so badly?
If how much I like a book can be measured in how difficult it is to put a book down, I have to say this series earns top marks. I had only intended to start this series, maybe get a few chapter read, earlier this week–-six hours later I was wrapping up The Only One Who Matters and seriously bemoaning the fact that I didn’t have another book in the series to read.
I haven’t read many military-themed books lately. I just haven’t been in the mood, I guess. But mood or not, these books just struck a chord with everything (I didn’t know) I was looking for. Fast-paced action, secret romances, forbidden love, and two characters who can handily avoid clichés as well as the bullets of the men who are hunting them down.
When we hit this book Josh and David have been going at their new relationship for about a half a year. David is doing better with his rehab, and Josh is still leading the team into the corners of the world. They have moved into a house together, and have navigated pretty successfully all those little things that make living together a test of trial and error. But cracks are definitely starting to show, because each time Josh leaves, David knows exactly what kind of danger he is walking into.
I have to say that I loved how this book handled the issues of being the one married to a military man. Most books I have read either have both men in the military together, or have both men mostly stateside together, for most of the book. This book does a lot in showing just how stressful it can be to watch the person you love walk out the door and leave you not knowing if they will ever walk back in. And even more importantly, it shows how difficult it is when they do walk back in. How the stress of not only knowing that the reprieve is temporary, but of them having parts of their lives and mind that are wounded in a way that can’t do much to heal.
Secrets are necessary (and sometimes mandated by law) between David and Josh, but the lives they lead separate from each other is putting stress on the cracks forming between them. Love is not enough when it is the loving that is hurting the other person. I felt it was good that they both realized that what they had could actually end if they didn’t talk. If they didn’t try to find a place where Josh didn’t feel pressured to leave the job he loves, and David doesn’t feel the stress of knowing that every moment they have together comes with a stop-date. Or that everything they do only serves as a reminder of what David can no longer be.
The way that this book played off the ideas of love and loss, was very well done. It didn’t let Josh and David rest in their happy(ish)-ever-after. It made them work their way through all the tough stuff they expected, and a few things that they never wanted to have to deal with. This story tested them, and came very close to finding them wanting. But by the end, I was so very happy. And when Josh catches sight of David, in that epilogue, I was smiling so damn much. These boys may not how to do anything the easy way, but they know how to get it done. And I enjoyed watching them do it.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
January 4, 2023
As I mentioned when I finished 'The Only One Who Knows', book one in 'The Only One' series by Cat Grant and L.A. Witt, I have been on pins and needles waiting for this second installment. In my opinion, these books should be read in the order they've come out, because if you miss the first book then you won't get a whole lot of backstory that is fairly integral to this second book in the series. 'The Only One Who Matters' exceeded my expectations and I thought that would be tough to do. I mean, I've already admitted I'm completely easy when it comes to Navy SEALS, and making this book even better than the first one was practically more than I could handle. Never fear, I said "practically". *grins*
Josh, David, and the real world. A lot of adjustments have to be made. David is no longer a SEAL and he's still recuperating from the gunshot that ended his career. Josh is still on active duty and being sent out on missions. For David, being at home just waiting for Josh to come home from his missions is, in some ways, worse than being on the missions ever was. And for Josh, knowing he can't fix this and make it all okay is almost just as bad. The tension between them is becoming harder and harder to deny and since these are two men who don't discuss feelings or what they're thinking about, the times in between Josh's deployments are growing very brittle.
"It drives me insane, because I know what you're doing out there, and I miss doing it myself. I hate that I can't anymore. Trying to find my place in the civilian world with the constant reminders of what I was and what I can't be… And since I know what's out there and what happens, I can't sleep because I know… I know what could happen to you."
The inevitable occurs and Josh and a couple of the members of his team get taken while on their mission. David's worst fear is coming true. Since David promised one of those missing men that he'd look out for his wife and kids while the team was deployed, David is also helping care for two toddlers and a newborn while comforting the wife. And getting comfort in return. It gives David an up-front, honest view of a Navy SEAL's wife in action. Tough, capable, and strong for her family.
I'm not sure that I can begin to express how much I loved this book, but also what a strong visceral impact it had on me. Our military men and women go through things the average person never will, and no doubt about it, it changes them. There is such inner strength in these people and it knocks me over when I stop and really think about it. Not to mention the spouses and loved ones who sit around hoping they won't get a phone call with bad news. Josh struggled with PTSD and flashbacks after his captivity and torture, and it took a lot of strength for David and him to be able to work through their many difficulties and rise above them. Strength and the love these men share almost wasn't enough. It also took allowing themselves to be vulnerable in front of their partner and asking for help when they needed it. I loved this book and everything about it.
For all who have served or are currently serving, and especially to our wounded warriors - thank you for keeping me safe.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Josh, David, and the real world. A lot of adjustments have to be made. David is no longer a SEAL and he's still recuperating from the gunshot that ended his career. Josh is still on active duty and being sent out on missions. For David, being at home just waiting for Josh to come home from his missions is, in some ways, worse than being on the missions ever was. And for Josh, knowing he can't fix this and make it all okay is almost just as bad. The tension between them is becoming harder and harder to deny and since these are two men who don't discuss feelings or what they're thinking about, the times in between Josh's deployments are growing very brittle.
"It drives me insane, because I know what you're doing out there, and I miss doing it myself. I hate that I can't anymore. Trying to find my place in the civilian world with the constant reminders of what I was and what I can't be… And since I know what's out there and what happens, I can't sleep because I know… I know what could happen to you."
The inevitable occurs and Josh and a couple of the members of his team get taken while on their mission. David's worst fear is coming true. Since David promised one of those missing men that he'd look out for his wife and kids while the team was deployed, David is also helping care for two toddlers and a newborn while comforting the wife. And getting comfort in return. It gives David an up-front, honest view of a Navy SEAL's wife in action. Tough, capable, and strong for her family.
I'm not sure that I can begin to express how much I loved this book, but also what a strong visceral impact it had on me. Our military men and women go through things the average person never will, and no doubt about it, it changes them. There is such inner strength in these people and it knocks me over when I stop and really think about it. Not to mention the spouses and loved ones who sit around hoping they won't get a phone call with bad news. Josh struggled with PTSD and flashbacks after his captivity and torture, and it took a lot of strength for David and him to be able to work through their many difficulties and rise above them. Strength and the love these men share almost wasn't enough. It also took allowing themselves to be vulnerable in front of their partner and asking for help when they needed it. I loved this book and everything about it.
For all who have served or are currently serving, and especially to our wounded warriors - thank you for keeping me safe.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
March 27, 2014
Such an interesting contrast to the first book. The way the relationship gets challenged by the very thing that brought them together. Very strong writing - liked the evolution.
June 30, 2025
Vast improvement over the first book. Being in a relationship with an active duty SEAL is hard for most people. When you used to be a SEAL and know exactly what goes on out there, it's even harder. David's having to adjust to civilian life and is going through his physical therapy for the injury that ended his career, and having to do most of it alone. Josh is caught between his love of the SEALs and his love of David, as well as being overwhelmed by both. It's a balancing act that they both are struggling to figure out.
I thought this book was much more intimate than the previous book, which was basically just lots of sex and then rumble in the jungle. In this one, we actually get to see the day to day stuff that was glossed over in the first book, and got to see the relationship between these two. There's also some great side characters, and Major the German Shepard was adorable.
There were some glaring typos though - additional words or duplicate words that didn't belong and in one spot "Josh" is used when "David" should've been. There was also the repetition that seems to be Witt's forte and something I keep wishing she'll stop doing.
I thought this book was much more intimate than the previous book, which was basically just lots of sex and then rumble in the jungle. In this one, we actually get to see the day to day stuff that was glossed over in the first book, and got to see the relationship between these two. There's also some great side characters, and Major the German Shepard was adorable.
There were some glaring typos though - additional words or duplicate words that didn't belong and in one spot "Josh" is used when "David" should've been. There was also the repetition that seems to be Witt's forte and something I keep wishing she'll stop doing.
April 9, 2014
I'm confused by the not so great reviews... I loved it! Maybe not quite as good as the first, but it was very good! I did see a couple of editing issues, but they weren't a big deal. I like the conflict and drama between Josh and David, liked the addition of Jenny and her drama, and loved the ending. I'm glad we didn't have to read about what specifically happened to Josh, I wouldn't have wanted to see that...
Overall a great couple of books from a great couple of authors!
Overall a great couple of books from a great couple of authors!
March 21, 2014
I love these guys... my heart hurt for them so much. The struggles they go through, I can't imagine what this would be like. This book feels so real to me. Military families go through so much shit. I don't even know what to say. I just loved this book, the story, the men, the supporting characters. Loved it.
April 17, 2014
I cried. Goddamned angst. *shakes fist at the sky*
Will there be more? <----glutton for punishment
Will there be more? <----glutton for punishment
June 30, 2025
I liked this story, but wasn’t happy with how many errors there were. Additional words, missing words, inconsistent facts, wrong character name used, weird timeline, etc. My red highlighter got a workout!!
It was nice to read more about where Josh and David are in their relationship after book one. There were some challenges, and I was disappointed at how Josh handled one particular thing (he ran away and didn’t stay to talk things out). I loved the addition of seeing one of Josh’s teammate’s family.
Even though this was a shorter book, there was a lot of stuff that happened. I just wish the timeline had been more consistent and realistic. It also felt like Josh’s parents came into the picture then were just kind of dropped. I expected to see them in the epilogue and they were completely brushed over.
It was nice to read more about where Josh and David are in their relationship after book one. There were some challenges, and I was disappointed at how Josh handled one particular thing (he ran away and didn’t stay to talk things out). I loved the addition of seeing one of Josh’s teammate’s family.
Even though this was a shorter book, there was a lot of stuff that happened. I just wish the timeline had been more consistent and realistic. It also felt like Josh’s parents came into the picture then were just kind of dropped. I expected to see them in the epilogue and they were completely brushed over.
July 26, 2017
True rating ... 2.75 stars. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this as much as I thought I would. Definitely not as much as I did the first book :-/!! The MCs pissed me off; Josh moreso than David. The only reason I didn't give this book a solid 3 star rating is because I did skim quite a bit toward the end :-/ and it just couldn't hold my attention. The book ended fantastically though and the HEA was a beautiful one :-)!!
March 20, 2014
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
This book is a continuation of the story the Only One Who Knows. Yes, it can be read on its own but I think you’ll get more out of it if you read the other book first. That being said, I started this book and read it from beginning to end; I simply could not put it down. The Only One Who Matters was phenomenal; the writing was sharp, the plot compelling, and the characters rich and deep.
Following a mission that almost took his life ex-SEAL David Flint is dealing with being a civilian, rehabilitating his leg, and trying to figure out where he belongs in the life of his partner Lieutenant Commander Josh Walker as he leaves for one deployment after another.
Living together has brought them closer but with Josh’s constant deployments their relationship is starting to feel the strain.
I found it so interesting that David, an ex-SEAL, had just as hard a time if not more so with his lover deploying as the wives, mothers, and significant others of the rest of the SEAL team. I love that this book was written this way because it shows that no one is immune to the worry, the hardship, and the issues that arise when a loved one is gone. There was a strain between these two men; one that they knew was there but they just didn’t know how to fix as communication is not one of their strengths.
With Josh and the team gone, David finds himself helping out one of the wives from the team and it was entertaining to see a very different side of this large, in charge, and complex man. We saw a different side of Josh as he led his men and made decisions that affected them all. It was great to see that he was capable of being the man and leader David saw in him when they first met.
So much happens in this book but I don’t want to give anything away so I’ll just say this is a complex story with a lot of surprises, some good and some bad. The Only One Who Matters isn’t a pretty story; these are two guys who have a hard time sharing their feelings, communicating their needs and letting anyone help, but there’s no doubt they belong together and are in it for the long haul.
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
This book is a continuation of the story the Only One Who Knows. Yes, it can be read on its own but I think you’ll get more out of it if you read the other book first. That being said, I started this book and read it from beginning to end; I simply could not put it down. The Only One Who Matters was phenomenal; the writing was sharp, the plot compelling, and the characters rich and deep.
Following a mission that almost took his life ex-SEAL David Flint is dealing with being a civilian, rehabilitating his leg, and trying to figure out where he belongs in the life of his partner Lieutenant Commander Josh Walker as he leaves for one deployment after another.
Living together has brought them closer but with Josh’s constant deployments their relationship is starting to feel the strain.
I found it so interesting that David, an ex-SEAL, had just as hard a time if not more so with his lover deploying as the wives, mothers, and significant others of the rest of the SEAL team. I love that this book was written this way because it shows that no one is immune to the worry, the hardship, and the issues that arise when a loved one is gone. There was a strain between these two men; one that they knew was there but they just didn’t know how to fix as communication is not one of their strengths.
With Josh and the team gone, David finds himself helping out one of the wives from the team and it was entertaining to see a very different side of this large, in charge, and complex man. We saw a different side of Josh as he led his men and made decisions that affected them all. It was great to see that he was capable of being the man and leader David saw in him when they first met.
So much happens in this book but I don’t want to give anything away so I’ll just say this is a complex story with a lot of surprises, some good and some bad. The Only One Who Matters isn’t a pretty story; these are two guys who have a hard time sharing their feelings, communicating their needs and letting anyone help, but there’s no doubt they belong together and are in it for the long haul.
March 22, 2014
The Only One Who Matters...
183 pages
Book Description:
No man—and no heart—left behind.
The Only One, Book 2
Months after a bullet ended his SEAL career, Senior Chief David Flint doesn’t know which is worse: struggling to adjust to life as a civilian, or watching his lover, Lieutenant Commander Josh Walker, leave for one deployment after another.
Missing the career he loved—and knowing all too well the danger Josh faces—doesn’t help. And as Josh walks out the door for another assignment, David can feel their relationship cracking under the strain.
With so little time between assignments, Josh has no idea how to fix things with David. One thing he’s sure of, though…if they don’t find a way to resolve the rising tension between them, there’s a storm coming they might not be able to weather. But he plans to give it his best shot—when he gets home.
Assuming he makes it home alive…
Warning: Contains plenty of smoking-hot sex between two dudes who just wanted to be SEALs, not deal with all this romance crap. They went and fell in love anyway, and now have to figure out how to make it work while saving the world and teaching their puppy not to beg.
Review:
This is a great book. Five stars. Desert Island Keep.
Why Five Star?
The characters feel authentic: Gritty, passionate, battle weary, and strong. The story just pulled me in and wouldn't let go. So for me a great book is one that I emotionally connect with. Well, objective complete. It was also nice to see a different side of Flint who originally came off as abrasive, tough, and sometimes emotionally disconnected become so compassionate of his former unit and families.
I appreciated that when Josh and other Seal members come back from combat that they were emotionally traumatized. That these character were given real consequences, and not glamorized he-men warriors bull crap.
To be honest I wanted it to be longer, but it wouldn't surprise me if there was another addition in the works.
Highly Recommend.
183 pages
Book Description:
No man—and no heart—left behind.
The Only One, Book 2
Months after a bullet ended his SEAL career, Senior Chief David Flint doesn’t know which is worse: struggling to adjust to life as a civilian, or watching his lover, Lieutenant Commander Josh Walker, leave for one deployment after another.
Missing the career he loved—and knowing all too well the danger Josh faces—doesn’t help. And as Josh walks out the door for another assignment, David can feel their relationship cracking under the strain.
With so little time between assignments, Josh has no idea how to fix things with David. One thing he’s sure of, though…if they don’t find a way to resolve the rising tension between them, there’s a storm coming they might not be able to weather. But he plans to give it his best shot—when he gets home.
Assuming he makes it home alive…
Warning: Contains plenty of smoking-hot sex between two dudes who just wanted to be SEALs, not deal with all this romance crap. They went and fell in love anyway, and now have to figure out how to make it work while saving the world and teaching their puppy not to beg.
Review:
This is a great book. Five stars. Desert Island Keep.
Why Five Star?
The characters feel authentic: Gritty, passionate, battle weary, and strong. The story just pulled me in and wouldn't let go. So for me a great book is one that I emotionally connect with. Well, objective complete. It was also nice to see a different side of Flint who originally came off as abrasive, tough, and sometimes emotionally disconnected become so compassionate of his former unit and families.
I appreciated that when Josh and other Seal members come back from combat that they were emotionally traumatized. That these character were given real consequences, and not glamorized he-men warriors bull crap.
To be honest I wanted it to be longer, but it wouldn't surprise me if there was another addition in the works.
Highly Recommend.
September 13, 2014
Where do I start?! I loved this book. I fell in love with Josh , I fell in love with David. They were both in different places in their careers. Josh was a Navy SEAL leader and David injury had cost him his career as a Navy SEAL. I loved how the authors made you understand where both David and Josh came from. You had Josh that love being a Navy SEAL and David that loved it too but he had to give it up not by choice because of an injury. He had to see the love of his life continue with something he loves and fear for his life when he left and went on secret missions, something he knows very well how dangerous it is. I get where he came from and Josh too. This book was great because it was realistic. The story was realistic, Josh and David were realistic as a couple and as individuals going through love , fears and being Navy SEALS one as a former the other at his peak of his career. I actually think this book was better than the first book. We learned more about David and Josh and their feelings and how hard it is for the partners of Navy SEALS. A book that has hot , sexy guys that are madly in love with one another and likeable is always a winner.
February 16, 2015
3.5 stars
(Warning: Possible spoilers if you haven’t read the first book)
David and Josh are living together, their relationship completely out in the open. David continues his PT for his leg injury but that may be the least of his problems. His career as a Navy SEAL is over. The adjustment to that, and Josh’s continual dangerous overseas deployments eat away at him. The not knowing if Josh’ll make it back… that worries David more than anything.
What I like about this second book is how it goes into the difficulties of military life. How tough it is on friends and loved ones. David and Josh are nowhere near done working out their relationship and where it’s going. They love each other, but is that enough? The stress of military life eats away at that love.
This story is also about PTSD and it felt like an honest, well done depiction. The romance is not so much at the forefront as is the psychological aspect— soldiers returning from battle, wounded or with severe psychological issues. It’s important to remember all the military men and women who continually put their lives on the line for our safety and then live with the aftermath.
April 7, 2014
The Only One Who Matters is really the second half of The Only One. It's more about how David Flint & Josh Walker map put a live for themselves after injury alters their plans for their future. I really enjoyed watching Flint learn to become a more open person.
Cat Grant & LA Witt are a wonderful writing team.
Cat Grant & LA Witt are a wonderful writing team.
June 27, 2014
Even better the the first book in the series. It really touches some true to life issues facing military spouses and it does it in a sensitive and believable manner. I also felt a stronger bond with main characters in this second book. The writing allowed me to really get inside their heads and feel what they were feeling. Well done; I hope to see more in the future.
August 10, 2014
I'd forgotten how much I enjoyed the first book with David and Josh, and this sequel certainly didn't disappoint me. This was a highly emotional read and any book that makes me cry with it's emotional content is awesome! Also, there's some smokin' hot m/m scenes with Flyn and Walker, oh yeah! I'm looking forward to the next with these two.
January 28, 2014
Josh and David
Ok, I know I said this after the first one too but I would love more of this couple. lol I think there could be more after the way it ended. Maybe? Hopefully. Full review to come on Fiction Vixen Book Reviews
Ok, I know I said this after the first one too but I would love more of this couple. lol I think there could be more after the way it ended. Maybe? Hopefully. Full review to come on Fiction Vixen Book Reviews
March 21, 2014
I sincerely didn't want this to end. I think I'll be revisiting these two books fairly regularly.
February 24, 2014
°•○★5 Stars ~ KAPOW!★○•°
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
We received an arc of this book, in return for an honest review.... Honestly? Pre-order this book now. It is GREAT!!
This was such a great read! The Only One Who Matters continues Flint and Josh’s story. At the end of The Only One Who Knows, Flint was forced to retire from the SEALs because of his injury and he and Josh have moved in together. I was curious as to how they would deal with these two major changes in their lives – suddenly being out and living as a family, and the added stress – Flint, at home, depressed and frustrated, and Josh on deployments.
The first part of the story focuses exactly on these issues, more on the romance than the action. It’s a good heart-squeezer, one cannot help but care for these characters and everything they’re going through. It begins when Josh comes back from deployment, exhausted, trying to get his bearings. Flint is doing much better, but is feeling resentful (that he can no longer be a SEAL), insecure (what will he do now that any military-type job is closed to him), and scared to death for Josh (seeing as he knows exactly what happens on these dangerous missions). They’re not really big on talking about what bothers them and it leads to both of them feeling estranged, as even their more intimate moments become a source of stress. They’re both starting to understand what it means to have a family, someone who’s waiting at home, and someone who goes into danger, and Flint is having a very difficult time with it. Both of them are.
We also get to meet another team member’s family, and it was great watching Flint get past cringing at having to deal with little kids, and actually be a big help to a friend’s family. It showed a different side of him and added depth to the story and characters.
And then just before they can have a real talk, Josh is deployed. I liked that the story goes back and forth between civilian life and the mission. The mission was a bit too long for me, but what I liked about this particular part was that Josh is starting to realize what is bothering Flint and why, so we have a glimpse of that mature Josh that I liked so much in the first book.
The last part of the story was an eye-opener. Josh coming back, dealing with PTSD, and Flint taking care of him, everything starting to fall into place. And the way things are wrapped up was just perfect. Everything felt real, and what’s more, I feel I now have a better understanding of what people in dangerous professions and their families are going through. I highly recommend this book!
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
We received an arc of this book, in return for an honest review.... Honestly? Pre-order this book now. It is GREAT!!
This was such a great read! The Only One Who Matters continues Flint and Josh’s story. At the end of The Only One Who Knows, Flint was forced to retire from the SEALs because of his injury and he and Josh have moved in together. I was curious as to how they would deal with these two major changes in their lives – suddenly being out and living as a family, and the added stress – Flint, at home, depressed and frustrated, and Josh on deployments.
The first part of the story focuses exactly on these issues, more on the romance than the action. It’s a good heart-squeezer, one cannot help but care for these characters and everything they’re going through. It begins when Josh comes back from deployment, exhausted, trying to get his bearings. Flint is doing much better, but is feeling resentful (that he can no longer be a SEAL), insecure (what will he do now that any military-type job is closed to him), and scared to death for Josh (seeing as he knows exactly what happens on these dangerous missions). They’re not really big on talking about what bothers them and it leads to both of them feeling estranged, as even their more intimate moments become a source of stress. They’re both starting to understand what it means to have a family, someone who’s waiting at home, and someone who goes into danger, and Flint is having a very difficult time with it. Both of them are.
We also get to meet another team member’s family, and it was great watching Flint get past cringing at having to deal with little kids, and actually be a big help to a friend’s family. It showed a different side of him and added depth to the story and characters.
And then just before they can have a real talk, Josh is deployed. I liked that the story goes back and forth between civilian life and the mission. The mission was a bit too long for me, but what I liked about this particular part was that Josh is starting to realize what is bothering Flint and why, so we have a glimpse of that mature Josh that I liked so much in the first book.
The last part of the story was an eye-opener. Josh coming back, dealing with PTSD, and Flint taking care of him, everything starting to fall into place. And the way things are wrapped up was just perfect. Everything felt real, and what’s more, I feel I now have a better understanding of what people in dangerous professions and their families are going through. I highly recommend this book!
March 14, 2015
The Only One Who Matters is a follow-on sequel to The Only One Who Knows (which means, yes you need to read book 1 to understand book 2). We pick up a few months after the end of The Only One Who Knows. David and Josh have settled into a life. Josh is gone on missions more than he is home, and David is still trying to find his way in his post-SEAL world. This book is a ode to our wounded warriors as well as those who are left behind to wonder when or if their loved one will be coming home.
David really tugged at my heart in this installment. He wants so badly to be the badass he was before his injury, but he just can’t. At the same time, he sees his lover going off to live the life he wish he could still have. He doesn’t want to be jealous, he doesn’t want to be upset, but there is that part of him that just can not help it. It is a feeling we have all had at one point or another, so even if you aren’t a former SEAL watching your active-duty partner go do what you can’t, you can still relate to David. Add in the fact that he knows exactly how hairy things can get on a mission and he knows more than one partner should have to know.
Read More:
http://www.prismbookalliance.com/2014...
David really tugged at my heart in this installment. He wants so badly to be the badass he was before his injury, but he just can’t. At the same time, he sees his lover going off to live the life he wish he could still have. He doesn’t want to be jealous, he doesn’t want to be upset, but there is that part of him that just can not help it. It is a feeling we have all had at one point or another, so even if you aren’t a former SEAL watching your active-duty partner go do what you can’t, you can still relate to David. Add in the fact that he knows exactly how hairy things can get on a mission and he knows more than one partner should have to know.
Read More:
http://www.prismbookalliance.com/2014...
March 21, 2014
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
So I really loved the first book in this series, The Only One Who Knows. It is a great combination of sexy romance, lovely relationship building, and excellent military story. So I was really looking forward to reuniting with these guys and seeing how they fared in the wake of David’s injury and retirement.
Where this book really excels for me is in the military angle. Once again Grant and Witt really capture both life in the military and the missions themselves in such fantastic detail, it is clear that these authors know what they are talking about and really make it come to life on the page. Everything feels so true to life and it allowed me just to become immersed in this world, both in the action and the everyday routines of being a military family. The mission itself was the highlight for me once again here, as it is exciting and terrifying and intense. The action elements are just fabulous and really make the book for me.
Read Jay's review in its entirety
4 stars
So I really loved the first book in this series, The Only One Who Knows. It is a great combination of sexy romance, lovely relationship building, and excellent military story. So I was really looking forward to reuniting with these guys and seeing how they fared in the wake of David’s injury and retirement.
Where this book really excels for me is in the military angle. Once again Grant and Witt really capture both life in the military and the missions themselves in such fantastic detail, it is clear that these authors know what they are talking about and really make it come to life on the page. Everything feels so true to life and it allowed me just to become immersed in this world, both in the action and the everyday routines of being a military family. The mission itself was the highlight for me once again here, as it is exciting and terrifying and intense. The action elements are just fabulous and really make the book for me.
Read Jay's review in its entirety
March 19, 2014
This did an excellent job of trying to portray a couple in crisis. Mostly I never believe it when the boys fight, but here, with Josh & David both battling different sorts of demons, I was (a bit) worried.
The relationship has to go through a few jumpy times: The introduction of Josh's family, the missing of birthdays and Christmases and the ever constant worry of Josh never returning.
I fully engaged with this developing love (and its sweet sweet final scene).
The relationship has to go through a few jumpy times: The introduction of Josh's family, the missing of birthdays and Christmases and the ever constant worry of Josh never returning.
I fully engaged with this developing love (and its sweet sweet final scene).
April 3, 2014
I loved getting a 2nd look into Flint and Josh's lives.
I liked how they had problems to work out and that they fought to make it work.
It was good how the problems of deployment were dealt with.
I wish there had been a bit more chance for the pair to interact together instead of working tbrough things apart.
I loved the ending though to see all who care to come together and celebrate was very moving.
I liked how they had problems to work out and that they fought to make it work.
It was good how the problems of deployment were dealt with.
I wish there had been a bit more chance for the pair to interact together instead of working tbrough things apart.
I loved the ending though to see all who care to come together and celebrate was very moving.
April 8, 2014
Loved this book! I fell for Josh and David in "The Only One Who Knows" and it was great to see how things went for them. Cat Grant really gets across the heart-ache of separation when someone's deployed - from both sides. The characters are strong,likeable men and the author isn't afraid to let them act out their emotions just as "real" military men in their situation would - with a rawness that really gets to you. Not a comfortable read at times but well worth it.
August 30, 2015
Not bad. Dudes are cohabiting. 1 dude still a SEAL and the other injured, being treated, having retired. So good conflict around SEAL dude leaping off and doing SEAL things. You know, read this a day ago, and can't remember how it ended. I liked it enough to read the last book which involves a BABY. I know they got married - can't remember which book it was in.
I got to know the retired dude more than the non-retired dude.
I got to know the retired dude more than the non-retired dude.
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