What do you think?
Rate this book
The Recon Diaries #2
Fire For Effect
Two years after the events of Brothers In Arms, Kellan Reynolds and First Sergeant Jonah Carver are struggling with their bi-coastal relationship. Following the events in Iraq, Kellan's expertise in national security is well established and he is hired to investigate the suspicious repeated denial of a KIA Marine the Medal of Honor. Kellan brings Jonah onto his staff and into his home, but just as their relationship settles into a routine, their investigation heats up. What begins at the Pentagon, leads to Camp Leatherneck in Afghanistan, and an ambush that threatens to destroy everything they've built.
105 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 11, 2013
3 people are currently reading
387 people want to read
About the author
Kendall McKenna
23 books677 followers Kendall McKenna
love & dog tags
Kendall McKenna is an author of M/M erotic romance novels featuring well-developed characters, complex stories, and realistic action sequences.
Kendall McKenna is the MLR Press 2013 Author of the Year. Her first work of fiction was written at the worldly age of nine, and was a transformative work that expanded on the story told in a popular song of the time.
She tried her hand at vampire and cowboy fiction, winning high school poetry and short story contests along the way. It wasn’t until she discovered the world of m/m erotic fiction and found her stride with cops, Marines and muscle cars, that she felt inspired to share her stories with readers who enjoy the same things.
Putting herself through college by working in a newly-created HIV testing clinic in her local Department of Health, introduced Kendall to the gay and lesbian community. Understanding and empathy has made her a lifetime advocate of GLBT issues.
A brief bout of unemployment gave Kendall the time and focus she needed to finally produce a novel worth submitting for publication. Her first novel, Brothers In Arms , introduced the world to her authentic military stories and characters. Kendall’s second novel, Strength of the Pack, was nominated for a 2013 Bookie Award, by Author’s After Dark.
Kendall was born and raised in Southern California, where she still lives and works. A non-conventional relationship has kept her happy for the last decade. Her four dogs enjoy it when she writes, as she sits still long enough for them to curl up around her.
Website/Blog:
www.kendallmckenna.com
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/kendallmckenna
love & dog tags
Kendall McKenna is an author of M/M erotic romance novels featuring well-developed characters, complex stories, and realistic action sequences.
Kendall McKenna is the MLR Press 2013 Author of the Year. Her first work of fiction was written at the worldly age of nine, and was a transformative work that expanded on the story told in a popular song of the time.
She tried her hand at vampire and cowboy fiction, winning high school poetry and short story contests along the way. It wasn’t until she discovered the world of m/m erotic fiction and found her stride with cops, Marines and muscle cars, that she felt inspired to share her stories with readers who enjoy the same things.
Putting herself through college by working in a newly-created HIV testing clinic in her local Department of Health, introduced Kendall to the gay and lesbian community. Understanding and empathy has made her a lifetime advocate of GLBT issues.
A brief bout of unemployment gave Kendall the time and focus she needed to finally produce a novel worth submitting for publication. Her first novel, Brothers In Arms , introduced the world to her authentic military stories and characters. Kendall’s second novel, Strength of the Pack, was nominated for a 2013 Bookie Award, by Author’s After Dark.
Kendall was born and raised in Southern California, where she still lives and works. A non-conventional relationship has kept her happy for the last decade. Her four dogs enjoy it when she writes, as she sits still long enough for them to curl up around her.
Website/Blog:
www.kendallmckenna.com
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/kendallmckenna
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 4, 2013
Why did I rate this so well? The follow up to Brothers In Arms Hmm, let me see -
Hot men - check
Great sex scenes - check
Just a touch of sweet in my very alpha men. I do love the "L" word when it isn't abused - check -
"I could make it easy and just take orders at Quantico or somewhere in D.C." Again, Jonah looked everywhere but at Kellan.
"But you love California," Kellan blurted out.
"No, I like California," Jonah replied, pushing food around his plate. "I love you."
Kellan stopped breathing his blood thundered in his ears.
Some political machinations - check
An investigation - Check
Some intense, realistic battle action - check
A bit of background and a sneak-peek at Corey Yarwoood - Check (he's up and running in the next one and I was not alone in wanting more of him, so booyah!!) - check
Great technical writing - check
Did I say hot sex? Yep. I did. Who cares, it's worth mentioning twice - so check again
I make no bones about the fact that I like Kendall McKenna's writing. She writes military well, she never overdoes the sex, but when it happens it's mighty fine, and her men are just the right kind of alpha. Full review at On Top Down Under Book Reviews - http://bookreviewsandtherapy.blogspot...
February 22, 2014
This is the sequel to Brothers In Arms. I loved the first book and I adored this one. It was hotter and definitely sappier without being over the top or losing what I loved about the first book. I will not hide the fact that I'm a fan girl for military men. That's just me.
Kellan was the main focus of this story. It was nice to see a bit more of him this time, we got a lot of Jonah too, but this was his book in a way. He is still the more approachable, friendly of the two MC's but no less hot or sexy. I enjoyed delving into his feelings for Jonah and he's not a major jealous freak which is always nice.
Jonah was not as front and center but he is a marine to the core. His attitude is sexy and his loving nature for Kellan is endearing. We saw a hint of his softer side in this one. Especially in one sex scene. I was happier than I would have thought to see that. Especially when you consider how much I do love him.
The relationship took more focus this time around and for that I was grateful. We got the I LOVE YOU scenes that were missing from the first book. We also got more sex scenes and the impact of their separation time. The epilogue was just mean and I would love another book. Pretty please Ms. McKenna. Give us another book!
Highly recommend this series!
Kellan was the main focus of this story. It was nice to see a bit more of him this time, we got a lot of Jonah too, but this was his book in a way. He is still the more approachable, friendly of the two MC's but no less hot or sexy. I enjoyed delving into his feelings for Jonah and he's not a major jealous freak which is always nice.
Jonah was not as front and center but he is a marine to the core. His attitude is sexy and his loving nature for Kellan is endearing. We saw a hint of his softer side in this one. Especially in one sex scene. I was happier than I would have thought to see that. Especially when you consider how much I do love him.
The relationship took more focus this time around and for that I was grateful. We got the I LOVE YOU scenes that were missing from the first book. We also got more sex scenes and the impact of their separation time. The epilogue was just mean and I would love another book. Pretty please Ms. McKenna. Give us another book!
Highly recommend this series!
April 14, 2013
McKenna writes such fabulous military stories. No exception here, there's a very authentic feel to the situations and descriptions.
I'm glad to be back with Kellan and Jonah but after 2 years together there was a tentativeness to their relationship that points to miscommunication on both their parts that I was surprised at reading. It makes me wonder where they'll be in future books if they question the strength of their bond with each other.
I enjoyed the read but I think it would have been a stronger one if I'd have gotten some of Jonah's POV. I'm looking forward to seeing where the Recon diaries go next but I'm hoping that along the way with great military storylines we get some active relationship building.
I'm glad to be back with Kellan and Jonah but after 2 years together there was a tentativeness to their relationship that points to miscommunication on both their parts that I was surprised at reading. It makes me wonder where they'll be in future books if they question the strength of their bond with each other.
I enjoyed the read but I think it would have been a stronger one if I'd have gotten some of Jonah's POV. I'm looking forward to seeing where the Recon diaries go next but I'm hoping that along the way with great military storylines we get some active relationship building.
April 12, 2013
Kellan and Jonah are back in the States. We learn about how things have been going for them relationshipwise with having to deal with the separation of being stationed at different ends of the country, etc. I love when these guys are together that it is somewhat understated, yet they can turn up the heat in every scene.
In this segment, things take a different direction. The guys are on a team investigating the reasons behind one soldier's (or was he a marine? Forgive me for not remembering) denial of the Medal of Honor. As it turns out, there has been a large deficit in the awarding of Medals of Honor in the past couple of wars. As one of their key witnesses is stationed in Afghanistan, they must travel there to interview him.
This is where things really picked up for me. Kendall is fabulous at writing military. You feel as though you are drawn right beside the men during these skirmishes. The descriptions are vivid, and the talk again seems spot on, though it may be annoying to those not privy to all the acronyms.
I'm excited that it appears there is more to Jonah and Kellan's story and look forward to another solid Recon installment.
In this segment, things take a different direction. The guys are on a team investigating the reasons behind one soldier's (or was he a marine? Forgive me for not remembering) denial of the Medal of Honor. As it turns out, there has been a large deficit in the awarding of Medals of Honor in the past couple of wars. As one of their key witnesses is stationed in Afghanistan, they must travel there to interview him.
This is where things really picked up for me. Kendall is fabulous at writing military. You feel as though you are drawn right beside the men during these skirmishes. The descriptions are vivid, and the talk again seems spot on, though it may be annoying to those not privy to all the acronyms.
I'm excited that it appears there is more to Jonah and Kellan's story and look forward to another solid Recon installment.
June 14, 2017
3.5 Stars
I sound like a broken record when reviewing this author's books, but I think it bears repeating so I'll say it again.
Great smex
Hot alphas
Detailed military setting
Great smex
Having said that, I felt this was more emotionally resonant than the first (and obviously more smex), as this shows Kellan and Jonah navigating their long distance relationship. This is her earlier work and her Tameness of the Wolf series is soooo much hotter, but this kind of set up pretty much does it for me every time, and McKenna is the reigning queen of this genre.
I sound like a broken record when reviewing this author's books, but I think it bears repeating so I'll say it again.
Great smex
Hot alphas
Detailed military setting
Great smex
Having said that, I felt this was more emotionally resonant than the first (and obviously more smex), as this shows Kellan and Jonah navigating their long distance relationship. This is her earlier work and her Tameness of the Wolf series is soooo much hotter, but this kind of set up pretty much does it for me every time, and McKenna is the reigning queen of this genre.
August 12, 2013
Back with Jonah and Kellan again in this one, set two years after the previous book and the second in the Recon Diaries trilogy. 4 stars and
Oorah!!Kellan has been given a remit to investigate why a dead Marine wasn't awarded a Medal of Honor...indeed, as he digs deeper, it would appear that not a lot of heroic action undertaken by Marines is being recognised with a medal nowadays. There is obviously a problem somewhere at the White House, and Kellan and Jonah are determined to find out who or what the problem is.
There wasn't a lot of action as far as the man-on-man kind is concerned in this one, but you're made aware that Kellan and Jonah are now a couple, even though they might still be separated sometimes by the width of the entire US. I felt that this plotline was very realistic...or could be very realistic, and that the saying 'money talks' still rings true today. Looking forward to the next one which is about Corey Yarwood, who seemed to think he was in with a chance with Jonah himself...sorry Corey, go and find your own guy!!
April 19, 2013
Jonah and Kellen really know how to set fire to the sheets. The love and afffection they feel for each other is palpable, even though it's not exactly voiced often. Once again they find themselves in the danger zone, but this time they are not in command...and that doesn't sit well with either of them. The sequel is similar to Brothers in Arms as the main storyline is not the romance, even though it's much more established now and the heat generated by these guys is scorching. I am not finished yet with these two.
I recommend this series to anyone who likes their military men hot and the stories legit.
Oh, and Jonah's dirty kissing is the hottest thing I've read in a long time!
I recommend this series to anyone who likes their military men hot and the stories legit.
Oh, and Jonah's dirty kissing is the hottest thing I've read in a long time!
April 7, 2013
Oh my god, Jonah and Kellan are hot together.
Kendall McKenna could have stripped this stories plot from the headlines as it's completely true. She has her boys investigating. She, of course, puts her own spin on the conclusions, but it's a great story.
Ms. McKenna has intimate knowledge of military speak, movements, combat, etc. You can tell just by reading her stories that she is very detailed. This book is no different. Kellan and Jonah find themselves in deep trouble, and the battle that rages around them had me wondering who would live and who would die.
I'm not sure how many more stories she has for these guys, but I promise to be in line waiting when they come around again.
Kendall McKenna could have stripped this stories plot from the headlines as it's completely true. She has her boys investigating. She, of course, puts her own spin on the conclusions, but it's a great story.
Ms. McKenna has intimate knowledge of military speak, movements, combat, etc. You can tell just by reading her stories that she is very detailed. This book is no different. Kellan and Jonah find themselves in deep trouble, and the battle that rages around them had me wondering who would live and who would die.
I'm not sure how many more stories she has for these guys, but I promise to be in line waiting when they come around again.
January 3, 2015
3.5 "All Parts of Me Salute All Parts of You" Stars
Okay, I should probably be upfront about the fact that I consumed almost an entire bottle of wine while reading Kendall McKenna’s Fire for Effect (what?! Don’t look at me like you’ve never done it!), and my recollections of what I liked/didn’t like about it may be a tad… compromised. ;)
The story in a nutshell: Two years after the events in Afghanistan brought Jonah and Kellan back together, the couple is struggling to maintain a bi-coastal relationship and figure out how to balance their personal lives with the demands of their equally high-powered careers. So when Kellan is asked to form a team to investigate the possible denial of Medals of Honour to worthy candidates on the basis of their race, gender, and/or sexual orientation, he jumps at the opportunity to make Jonah his military liaison. What neither of them realizes is that the investigation is about to draw them back to Afghanistan and right into the middle of a deadly firefight. Only this time, the couple has a lot more to lose...
This time around the story is told from Kellan’s perspective, so we get to know the former Marine much better than we did in Brothers in Arms. Equal parts shrewd, serious, and diplomatic, he’s my favourite kind of alpha male (all sexy and authoritative). I love that he’s a straight-shooter and that he doesn’t take crap from anyone. I mean, when he gave the Secretary of Defense that verbal smackdown for calling him by his first name…? Instant panty dropper.
My favourite thing about this story was the chance to see how Jonah and Kellan’s relationship has developed since the last book. Interestingly, even after two years together the guys still seem a little unsure of where they stand with one another. Though I was surprised at this, I also thought the glimpses of vulnerability and humour this allowed for were incredibly sweet. I just about melted on the spot during this part:
"I could make it easy and just take orders at Quantico or somewhere in D.C." Again, Jonah looked everywhere but at Kellan.
"But you love California," Kellan blurted out.
"No, I like California," Jonah replied, pushing food around his plate. "I love you."
Kellan stopped breathing his blood thundered in his ears.
The fact that Kellan is floored by Jonah’s declaration is so friggin’ adorable! I just wish that there had been more of these moments in the story that make my heart flutter (I had the same complaint with McKenna’s last novel). I’m sure other readers will be pleased with the balance between the story’s drama and romance, but…. I’m just a marshmallow and I want what I want. *shrugs* Sue me.
I loved the premise of this novel and thought that McKenna did a great job developing a solid plot that’s grounded in a very real current issue. It is shameful how few men and women who have served in the Armed Forces in the last decade have been acknowledge for their acts of bravery and sacrifice (and if someone isn’t looking into this yet, they should be!). But as much as I personally support the author’s viewpoint, I’m the first to say that the level of detail she went into regarding the investigation caused the middle of the story to drag a little.
Gotta say, though, McKenna sure knows how to end a story with a bang. Between the action of the ambush, the post-near death experience sexy times, and the , I was quite pleased. Quite pleased, indeed.
Verdict: Though Fire for Effect wasn’t exactly what I was expecting, it was a pretty darned good novella. And I’ve got to hand it to the author; she certainly managed to pack a whole lot of story into those 100 pages! Totally worthy of a 3.5-star rating.
Okay, I should probably be upfront about the fact that I consumed almost an entire bottle of wine while reading Kendall McKenna’s Fire for Effect (what?! Don’t look at me like you’ve never done it!), and my recollections of what I liked/didn’t like about it may be a tad… compromised. ;)
The story in a nutshell: Two years after the events in Afghanistan brought Jonah and Kellan back together, the couple is struggling to maintain a bi-coastal relationship and figure out how to balance their personal lives with the demands of their equally high-powered careers. So when Kellan is asked to form a team to investigate the possible denial of Medals of Honour to worthy candidates on the basis of their race, gender, and/or sexual orientation, he jumps at the opportunity to make Jonah his military liaison. What neither of them realizes is that the investigation is about to draw them back to Afghanistan and right into the middle of a deadly firefight. Only this time, the couple has a lot more to lose...
This time around the story is told from Kellan’s perspective, so we get to know the former Marine much better than we did in Brothers in Arms. Equal parts shrewd, serious, and diplomatic, he’s my favourite kind of alpha male (all sexy and authoritative). I love that he’s a straight-shooter and that he doesn’t take crap from anyone. I mean, when he gave the Secretary of Defense that verbal smackdown for calling him by his first name…? Instant panty dropper.
My favourite thing about this story was the chance to see how Jonah and Kellan’s relationship has developed since the last book. Interestingly, even after two years together the guys still seem a little unsure of where they stand with one another. Though I was surprised at this, I also thought the glimpses of vulnerability and humour this allowed for were incredibly sweet. I just about melted on the spot during this part:
"I could make it easy and just take orders at Quantico or somewhere in D.C." Again, Jonah looked everywhere but at Kellan.
"But you love California," Kellan blurted out.
"No, I like California," Jonah replied, pushing food around his plate. "I love you."
Kellan stopped breathing his blood thundered in his ears.
The fact that Kellan is floored by Jonah’s declaration is so friggin’ adorable! I just wish that there had been more of these moments in the story that make my heart flutter (I had the same complaint with McKenna’s last novel). I’m sure other readers will be pleased with the balance between the story’s drama and romance, but…. I’m just a marshmallow and I want what I want. *shrugs* Sue me.
I loved the premise of this novel and thought that McKenna did a great job developing a solid plot that’s grounded in a very real current issue. It is shameful how few men and women who have served in the Armed Forces in the last decade have been acknowledge for their acts of bravery and sacrifice (and if someone isn’t looking into this yet, they should be!). But as much as I personally support the author’s viewpoint, I’m the first to say that the level of detail she went into regarding the investigation caused the middle of the story to drag a little.
Gotta say, though, McKenna sure knows how to end a story with a bang. Between the action of the ambush, the post-near death experience sexy times, and the , I was quite pleased. Quite pleased, indeed.
Verdict: Though Fire for Effect wasn’t exactly what I was expecting, it was a pretty darned good novella. And I’ve got to hand it to the author; she certainly managed to pack a whole lot of story into those 100 pages! Totally worthy of a 3.5-star rating.
November 27, 2016
I think this just isn't the series for me. I love the Kellen/Jonah bits, but all the military stuff just sails right over my head, and it bogs the story down, for me, at least. And then, in the end, what the guys were investigating wasn't even resolved. Maybe in future books, it gets addressed, but I'm not sure I can enough to continue.
April 29, 2013
3 to 3,5 stars.
It was a bit too sweet and too dramatic for my taste.
Also there was no real development in my opinion. And it felt very short.
But a nice read, nonetheless.
It was a bit too sweet and too dramatic for my taste.
Also there was no real development in my opinion. And it felt very short.
But a nice read, nonetheless.
April 13, 2013
Ok in this second serving of the Recon Diaries Kendall McKenna revisits Jonah and Kellan this time from Kellan's POV.
Jonah and kellen are together now and end up being tasked to find out about the lack of MOH recipients in the latest theaters of war. The story is tigh,t with enough suspense to keep you wishing that the rest of the world would bugger off so you could just keep reading and enough hot and heavy action that keeps certian parts of your body.... Well let's just say cold showers all around...
Someone else said it, but I happen to agree, that every KM experience is different, the only thing that stays the same is the dedication to the characters, their stories and the way that I am intimately affected by their stories and by their lives and loves.
I wish I could do justice in this review to her storytelling,but I feel there are no adequate phrases that I know that will accomplish this.
I wish I could compell you to buy this but if you are into M/M romance then this and Brothers in Arms (told from Jonah's POV) are a MUST HAVE...
Do it........
Jonah and kellen are together now and end up being tasked to find out about the lack of MOH recipients in the latest theaters of war. The story is tigh,t with enough suspense to keep you wishing that the rest of the world would bugger off so you could just keep reading and enough hot and heavy action that keeps certian parts of your body.... Well let's just say cold showers all around...
Someone else said it, but I happen to agree, that every KM experience is different, the only thing that stays the same is the dedication to the characters, their stories and the way that I am intimately affected by their stories and by their lives and loves.
I wish I could do justice in this review to her storytelling,but I feel there are no adequate phrases that I know that will accomplish this.
I wish I could compell you to buy this but if you are into M/M romance then this and Brothers in Arms (told from Jonah's POV) are a MUST HAVE...
Do it........
April 3, 2016
Jonah and Kellan are back together for a speaking arrangement when a member of the audience asks a wuestion that gets Kellan thinking.
This leads the back to Afghanistan in search of the truth.
An interesting story with the investigation taking a front seat to the MCs continued relationship.
This leads the back to Afghanistan in search of the truth.
An interesting story with the investigation taking a front seat to the MCs continued relationship.
December 10, 2014
Really only started this and the first one because I wanted the back ground for the third but I really like them. Enough military, who done it, and more sex in this than the first. Kellan and Jonah are cute together.
May 18, 2019
3.7 Stars
Compared to the other books I've read by this author, book felt less than completely fleshed out. Like it's missing a lot of "filler" that typically rounds out a novel. But I do always appreciate the way KM tackles the military jargon & details without spoon-feeding the acronyms and abbreviations to us; unless the reader is completely unfamiliar with the genre there's no need for repeated explanations for tactics or designations that sometimes pepper other books.
Compared to the other books I've read by this author, book felt less than completely fleshed out. Like it's missing a lot of "filler" that typically rounds out a novel. But I do always appreciate the way KM tackles the military jargon & details without spoon-feeding the acronyms and abbreviations to us; unless the reader is completely unfamiliar with the genre there's no need for repeated explanations for tactics or designations that sometimes pepper other books.
May 4, 2013
4.75 stars
Review originally written for Joyfully Jay
If you have not started The Recon Diaries series, do so. Read this series. Read this book. If you have read Brothers in Arms and haven’t read Fire for Effect, what are you waiting for? I promise, on either account, you don’t want to miss out.
It’s been two years since Jonah Carver rescued a kidnapped Kellan Reynolds in the middle of a warzone. But in that two years, the men have not lost contact, spending time together whenever possible. In fact, their relationship is stronger than ever. Since the daring rescue and subsequent corporate take-down, Kellan and Jonah have spoken at several symposiums together about their experiences.
It’s at one such symposium that a question of the underawarding of Medals of Honor is brought up. And while Kellan is unsure of the subject, he is determined to learn what he can. While researching the topic, Kellan notes several prejudicial issues that arise and takes action. When a senate committee offers Kellan a chance to head an investigation into possible discrimination in the process of awarding Medals of Honor, he accepts and is given Jonah, newly promoted to First Sargent, as his military liason.
While both men have their careers to think about if the investigation turns south, they also have their relationship to consider. And when the investigation turns up inconsistent testimony, they have to decide whether putting themselves back into a warzone, in the middle of danger, is worth finding out the truth.
As I said, read it. Consistent in her writing, Kendall McKenna is a must-read author. Fire for Effect follows Kellan and Jonah on another investigation full of heart-pounding action, thrilling adventure, and intriguing mystery. McKenna takes readers on a journey in this book. At times I could picture being in the middle of a warzone – heart racing, hands shaking, grenades shaking buildings, bullets and shrapnel flying through the air. Reading her books is quite the experience.
But I think my favorite part of the book is the focus on Kellan and Jonah’s relationship. It’s been two years since the end of book one, but just before DADT is repealed, so Jonah and Kellan still have to keep their relationship quiet. Yet their relationship has grown by leaps and bounds. The protectiveness they hold for each other is telling of their growth as a couple because where they don’t want harm to come to one another, they support the other’s decision while standing firmly by each other. I especially enjoyed their growing small growing pains and minor insecurities; it only proves that these two heroic men are human.
Jonah and Kellan are two of my absolute favorite characters…ever. They are both strong and confident men, both powerful leaders. They are both determined, headstrong men that look out for others before they worry about themselves. They have a passionate to right wrongs and see the good guys come out on top. And I feel like a broken record when I talk about characterization, but both men are so beautifully written that the character/reader connection is almost palpable. Readers truly get to know both of these characters through this series.
This storyline is a tad more sedated than in the first book in that, for over half of the book, the guys are not in a combat situation. But the plot here is heart-wrenching at times. The subject matter is realistic and intriguing. I was riveted while reading this story not wanting to put it down.
My only quibble – and I’m going to try to do this without giving anything away – lies with the conclusion of the investigation. What happened to the guy they interviewed? What happened period? I mean, I can pretty much guess, but I don’t want to have to guess. I would’ve liked the satisfaction of seeing justice served in that situation. That being said, the rest of the book was so immensely fabulous, that it doesn’t disappoint me too terribly much…just a little.
And once again, I would like to point out another fabulous cover by the very talented Jared Rackler, who is quickly becoming one of my favorite cover artists. This cover is sleek and sexy and beautiful. I love everything about it – from the desert background to the Medal of Honor to the sexy pout on Kellan’s face.
I am not one to rush out and read military fiction. It’s never been my thing. After I read Brothers in Arms, I picked up every McKenna book afterwards thinking that it was surely only beginner’s luck. And I’ve been pleasantly surprised ever since. I now know that it’s not beginner’s luck. Fire for Effect is a wonderful addition to this series. I love the story, the characters, the connection, even the combat. The Recon Diaries series is a must read. I highly, highly recommend this book as well as the series
Note: Fire for Effect is the second book in The Recon Diaries series by Kendall McKenna. These books are best if read in order.
Review originally written for Joyfully Jay
If you have not started The Recon Diaries series, do so. Read this series. Read this book. If you have read Brothers in Arms and haven’t read Fire for Effect, what are you waiting for? I promise, on either account, you don’t want to miss out.
It’s been two years since Jonah Carver rescued a kidnapped Kellan Reynolds in the middle of a warzone. But in that two years, the men have not lost contact, spending time together whenever possible. In fact, their relationship is stronger than ever. Since the daring rescue and subsequent corporate take-down, Kellan and Jonah have spoken at several symposiums together about their experiences.
It’s at one such symposium that a question of the underawarding of Medals of Honor is brought up. And while Kellan is unsure of the subject, he is determined to learn what he can. While researching the topic, Kellan notes several prejudicial issues that arise and takes action. When a senate committee offers Kellan a chance to head an investigation into possible discrimination in the process of awarding Medals of Honor, he accepts and is given Jonah, newly promoted to First Sargent, as his military liason.
While both men have their careers to think about if the investigation turns south, they also have their relationship to consider. And when the investigation turns up inconsistent testimony, they have to decide whether putting themselves back into a warzone, in the middle of danger, is worth finding out the truth.
As I said, read it. Consistent in her writing, Kendall McKenna is a must-read author. Fire for Effect follows Kellan and Jonah on another investigation full of heart-pounding action, thrilling adventure, and intriguing mystery. McKenna takes readers on a journey in this book. At times I could picture being in the middle of a warzone – heart racing, hands shaking, grenades shaking buildings, bullets and shrapnel flying through the air. Reading her books is quite the experience.
But I think my favorite part of the book is the focus on Kellan and Jonah’s relationship. It’s been two years since the end of book one, but just before DADT is repealed, so Jonah and Kellan still have to keep their relationship quiet. Yet their relationship has grown by leaps and bounds. The protectiveness they hold for each other is telling of their growth as a couple because where they don’t want harm to come to one another, they support the other’s decision while standing firmly by each other. I especially enjoyed their growing small growing pains and minor insecurities; it only proves that these two heroic men are human.
Jonah and Kellan are two of my absolute favorite characters…ever. They are both strong and confident men, both powerful leaders. They are both determined, headstrong men that look out for others before they worry about themselves. They have a passionate to right wrongs and see the good guys come out on top. And I feel like a broken record when I talk about characterization, but both men are so beautifully written that the character/reader connection is almost palpable. Readers truly get to know both of these characters through this series.
This storyline is a tad more sedated than in the first book in that, for over half of the book, the guys are not in a combat situation. But the plot here is heart-wrenching at times. The subject matter is realistic and intriguing. I was riveted while reading this story not wanting to put it down.
My only quibble – and I’m going to try to do this without giving anything away – lies with the conclusion of the investigation. What happened to the guy they interviewed? What happened period? I mean, I can pretty much guess, but I don’t want to have to guess. I would’ve liked the satisfaction of seeing justice served in that situation. That being said, the rest of the book was so immensely fabulous, that it doesn’t disappoint me too terribly much…just a little.
And once again, I would like to point out another fabulous cover by the very talented Jared Rackler, who is quickly becoming one of my favorite cover artists. This cover is sleek and sexy and beautiful. I love everything about it – from the desert background to the Medal of Honor to the sexy pout on Kellan’s face.
I am not one to rush out and read military fiction. It’s never been my thing. After I read Brothers in Arms, I picked up every McKenna book afterwards thinking that it was surely only beginner’s luck. And I’ve been pleasantly surprised ever since. I now know that it’s not beginner’s luck. Fire for Effect is a wonderful addition to this series. I love the story, the characters, the connection, even the combat. The Recon Diaries series is a must read. I highly, highly recommend this book as well as the series
Note: Fire for Effect is the second book in The Recon Diaries series by Kendall McKenna. These books are best if read in order.
April 8, 2013
5 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
This story is part of a series and is best enjoyed in order. Kellan and Jonah are reuniting after six months apart, their long distance relationship might be a struggle but they both think it is well worth it. Together they are to speak at UCLA on Military Infrastructure and Corruption, but they are asked a question that lingers in Kellan’s mind and leads to an investigation into the repeated denial of the Medal of Honor to a heroic Marine who was KIA.
Sometimes you come across a book that rips you out of reality and dumps you into a setting that makes you feel like you are living the experience yourself, and this is one of those books. Kendall McKenna doesn’t just give us a story she gives us an experience, she digs into your imagination and has you sitting in a war zone reacting to bullets as they whizz past and diving as grenades explode, and has you praying that the cas-evac helicopter will make it in time. The investigation is based on a legitimate question, why are medals few and far between in the current conflict? Ms McKenna uses her military knowledge and her own imagination to give us answers and she does it with panache, and she adds in the love of two great men as they weave through their own relationship constricts.
Jonah and Kellan still have to hide their relationship, DADT hasn’t been repealed yet and although they know it is just around the corner they still have to be careful. When Kellan is asked to set up a committee to investigate why a Marine has been repeatedly denied the MoH he brings Jonah on board, it leads them to an unpleasant discovery and the journey places them in danger when the convoy they are with is ambushed. This story starts with the reuniting of lovers and heat, longing, love and hot sex, it continues on giving us a mystery that needs to be uncovered and gives us a story that is a must read.
I will recommend this to those who love military men, delving into potential political corruption, finding the truth, two men who love each other, hot sex and a great ending, this is a story not to be missed.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
This story is part of a series and is best enjoyed in order. Kellan and Jonah are reuniting after six months apart, their long distance relationship might be a struggle but they both think it is well worth it. Together they are to speak at UCLA on Military Infrastructure and Corruption, but they are asked a question that lingers in Kellan’s mind and leads to an investigation into the repeated denial of the Medal of Honor to a heroic Marine who was KIA.
Sometimes you come across a book that rips you out of reality and dumps you into a setting that makes you feel like you are living the experience yourself, and this is one of those books. Kendall McKenna doesn’t just give us a story she gives us an experience, she digs into your imagination and has you sitting in a war zone reacting to bullets as they whizz past and diving as grenades explode, and has you praying that the cas-evac helicopter will make it in time. The investigation is based on a legitimate question, why are medals few and far between in the current conflict? Ms McKenna uses her military knowledge and her own imagination to give us answers and she does it with panache, and she adds in the love of two great men as they weave through their own relationship constricts.
Jonah and Kellan still have to hide their relationship, DADT hasn’t been repealed yet and although they know it is just around the corner they still have to be careful. When Kellan is asked to set up a committee to investigate why a Marine has been repeatedly denied the MoH he brings Jonah on board, it leads them to an unpleasant discovery and the journey places them in danger when the convoy they are with is ambushed. This story starts with the reuniting of lovers and heat, longing, love and hot sex, it continues on giving us a mystery that needs to be uncovered and gives us a story that is a must read.
I will recommend this to those who love military men, delving into potential political corruption, finding the truth, two men who love each other, hot sex and a great ending, this is a story not to be missed.
July 25, 2013
This is the second Recon Diaries book featuring our guys, Jonah and Kellan. And, wow, is it made of awesome! This time the point of view is Kellan's, and what a wonderful and insightful change that is. In book one we got Jonah's perspective and now we get Kellan's. I love that. Love hearing from both sides…essentially.
In this book, Jonah and Kellan are back together in DC investigating why the number of Medal of Honor recipients has decreased drastically for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan versus prior wars. This has them investigating the Department of Defense and the appointed members who make these decisions. It also has them doing some hard core investigating into the accuracy of combat testimonial. You can imagine that this doesn't make them very popular. And, of course to Jonah's dismay, it has them traveling to Afghanistan to interview Marines.
As usual, Kendall's writing is fast-paced, detail-oriented, and includes lots of hot, sweaty moments plus the softer side of love. It also has twists and turns, some heavy action scenes, and a fantastic ending.
In this book, Jonah and Kellan are back together in DC investigating why the number of Medal of Honor recipients has decreased drastically for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan versus prior wars. This has them investigating the Department of Defense and the appointed members who make these decisions. It also has them doing some hard core investigating into the accuracy of combat testimonial. You can imagine that this doesn't make them very popular. And, of course to Jonah's dismay, it has them traveling to Afghanistan to interview Marines.
As usual, Kendall's writing is fast-paced, detail-oriented, and includes lots of hot, sweaty moments plus the softer side of love. It also has twists and turns, some heavy action scenes, and a fantastic ending.
February 22, 2014
What started as reunion for Kellen and Jonah quickly becomes an investigation as to why there was an under-awarding of medals to the vets of the two most recent military conflicts. Of course, with these two men, they also end up in the middle of a battle during the course of their investigation.
For me, this was an entertaining novel but not up to the standard I had come to expect from this author. The story seemed to lack depth, which was padded out with numerous sex scenes (although as far as sex scenes go, they're quite good), and the end of their investigation seemed anticlimactic. That said, I did like knowing the factual research in the story is what reality shows.
I went on to read the final story in this series - The Final Line - and while I missed Jonah and Kellen being the central figures, the story was once again up to the author's usual standards.
For me, this was an entertaining novel but not up to the standard I had come to expect from this author. The story seemed to lack depth, which was padded out with numerous sex scenes (although as far as sex scenes go, they're quite good), and the end of their investigation seemed anticlimactic. That said, I did like knowing the factual research in the story is what reality shows.
I went on to read the final story in this series - The Final Line - and while I missed Jonah and Kellen being the central figures, the story was once again up to the author's usual standards.
December 25, 2015
This book was boooooooring!
This second book is written from Kellans POV and although he and Jonah were kind of cute together, that is about as positive as I can be about this book. Oh and the sex was okay.
I was really grateful that this book was just as short as the first book, so I only struggled with it for a short period of time.
We have Kellan and Jonah, together for about 2 years now. They are moving slowly in their relationship (I guess, it is not really discussed all that much, but after 2 years they are still a little tentative towards each other). Kellan has been asked to look in to the fact that there are not a lot of medals rewarded in this war as in previous wars. I’m sorry, am I supposed to be all excited about this?
Kellan and Jonah do some boring investigating, they travel to Afghanistan (or Iraq, I don’t really remember), get shot at and have some sex.
The end.
Book 3 better be good….
This second book is written from Kellans POV and although he and Jonah were kind of cute together, that is about as positive as I can be about this book. Oh and the sex was okay.
I was really grateful that this book was just as short as the first book, so I only struggled with it for a short period of time.
We have Kellan and Jonah, together for about 2 years now. They are moving slowly in their relationship (I guess, it is not really discussed all that much, but after 2 years they are still a little tentative towards each other). Kellan has been asked to look in to the fact that there are not a lot of medals rewarded in this war as in previous wars. I’m sorry, am I supposed to be all excited about this?
Kellan and Jonah do some boring investigating, they travel to Afghanistan (or Iraq, I don’t really remember), get shot at and have some sex.
The end.
Book 3 better be good….
July 4, 2013
I would definitely suggest starting with BROTHERS IN ARMS before getting into FIRE FOR EFFECT so you can really connect with the couple here. FIRE FOR EFFECT is a military themed thriller but it is complex and interesting. McKenna does a great job with the suspense and seems to know her military stuff, especially with Afghanistan and making the entire environment totally realistic and imaginable. This is a wonderful plot.
If you've read BROTHERS IN ARMS, we now have Kellan and Jonah in a committed relationship here in FIRE FOR EFFECT. They are not only together, they are out and open about it. There's love, but there's also some steamy sex, which I'm not going to complain about at all. This was an improvement from BROTHERS IN ARMS in my opinion, which did lack a lot of sex.
I certainly recommend this book but again only after you've read BROTHERS IN ARMS perhaps.
If you've read BROTHERS IN ARMS, we now have Kellan and Jonah in a committed relationship here in FIRE FOR EFFECT. They are not only together, they are out and open about it. There's love, but there's also some steamy sex, which I'm not going to complain about at all. This was an improvement from BROTHERS IN ARMS in my opinion, which did lack a lot of sex.
I certainly recommend this book but again only after you've read BROTHERS IN ARMS perhaps.
August 25, 2013
The book takes place a couple of years after the first and is told from Kellan's point of view. His relationship with Jonah has survived despite the long distances, but both are getting frustrated with the length of time apart.
After a question at a conference, Kellan begins investigating why so few Medals of Honour have been issued during the current conflict. He's soon commissioned by the some interested Senators to make the investigation official and Jonah joins him as a military liaison. Before long they end up back in the line of fire.
While I didn't find this book quite as engaging as the first I still really enjoyed it. The sex was hot and their relationship is clearly evolving. I'm looking forward to reading the third book.
April 22, 2013
The second book in the Recon Diaries is a wonderful action packed addition – it can be read as a stand-alone. But IMHO, if you didn't read Brothers in Arms… you’re missing out.
Kendall McKenna continues to blow me away with amazing storytelling. As I’m reading, I know I can trust the technical and military jargon and let myself get taken away on the adventure… Kendall's got it covered. There’s a solid plot, hot guys who love each other, guns and bombs… oh and smoking hot guys lovin’ on each other.
I’m not going to tear the story apart… but hot damn, this is a great read, a fantastic ride and another reason this author is a new addition to my auto-buy list.
Kendall McKenna continues to blow me away with amazing storytelling. As I’m reading, I know I can trust the technical and military jargon and let myself get taken away on the adventure… Kendall's got it covered. There’s a solid plot, hot guys who love each other, guns and bombs… oh and smoking hot guys lovin’ on each other.
I’m not going to tear the story apart… but hot damn, this is a great read, a fantastic ride and another reason this author is a new addition to my auto-buy list.
April 12, 2013
Reviewed here along with Brother in Arms.
April 15, 2013
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
Compelling subject matter and a dynamic couple you can't get enough of make this story and the series a "must read"
For my full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-1al
visit http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords for reviews of all of Kendall McKenna's books.
November 29, 2015
2,75 stars
#2 didn't hold a candle to the first one. If the author had spent less time on the sex scenes and more time on the core story, it might have measured up. This was more of a really long epilogue to the first book. The ending was most unsatisfactory.
#2 didn't hold a candle to the first one. If the author had spent less time on the sex scenes and more time on the core story, it might have measured up. This was more of a really long epilogue to the first book. The ending was most unsatisfactory.
August 6, 2016
3.5
This is gonna be short but I got to the end and I'm like ....
to top it off I didn't have #3 available on my reader so I had nothing I was really interested in picking up during breaks today.
Oh, that means yes I liked it.
This is gonna be short but I got to the end and I'm like ....
to top it off I didn't have #3 available on my reader so I had nothing I was really interested in picking up during breaks today.
Oh, that means yes I liked it.
April 11, 2013
See Lucky's 5 sweet pea review on April 12, 2013 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
April 2, 2014
I enjoyed this but it would have been a better book with more story and less sex. It was great to get to spend some time in Kellan's POV.
May 31, 2015
Still wanting to connect with the MCs more than I did. Maybe in book 3.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews