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Bomb Squad #2
Undefeated
Welcome to Destiny Falls, New York, home of Bomb Squad—an ice hockey team full of rugged military heroes. The team’s battling a losing streak, but the season’s biggest game changer is one player’s second chance with the one who got away…
Yoga instructor Marlena Brodie is always up for a challenge, and her new job of snapping Bomb Squad out of their rut is definitely that, even though it means being in close contact with Liam McAllister, her high school crush gone bad. She can feel the damage pouring off of him—but also a wild and sexy strength that calls to her.
The Army turned Liam McAllister into a man, but as a combat medic, he saw far too much to ever be whole again. He’s not interested in the civilian world beyond his job as a carpenter, but he never stopped wondering what might have been with Marlena—and it isn’t long before she’s crashed through his carefully constructed walls. He longs for a new beginning with her, but to be the man she deserves, he’ll have to step out of his defensive zone and score the most important play of his life…
Books in the Bomb Squad hockey series:
Risky Business (Bomb Squad #1)- August 2014
Undefeated (Bomb Squad #2) - November 2014
Game Changer (Bomb Squad #3) - April 2015
Yoga instructor Marlena Brodie is always up for a challenge, and her new job of snapping Bomb Squad out of their rut is definitely that, even though it means being in close contact with Liam McAllister, her high school crush gone bad. She can feel the damage pouring off of him—but also a wild and sexy strength that calls to her.
The Army turned Liam McAllister into a man, but as a combat medic, he saw far too much to ever be whole again. He’s not interested in the civilian world beyond his job as a carpenter, but he never stopped wondering what might have been with Marlena—and it isn’t long before she’s crashed through his carefully constructed walls. He longs for a new beginning with her, but to be the man she deserves, he’ll have to step out of his defensive zone and score the most important play of his life…
Books in the Bomb Squad hockey series:
Risky Business (Bomb Squad #1)- August 2014
Undefeated (Bomb Squad #2) - November 2014
Game Changer (Bomb Squad #3) - April 2015
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2014
20 people are currently reading
758 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Cutler
33 books500 followersMelissa Cutler knows she has the best job in the world, dividing her time between her dual passions for writing sexy contemporary romances and edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense for Harlequin, Penguin, St. Martin's Press, and Kensington Books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
May 16, 2015
5 - "It's just you and me and breathing." Stars!
The second book in Melissa Cutler’s Bomb Squad Series, came as a huge surprise to me. Whilst I enjoyed the first book Risky Business, it didn’t blow me away. Whereas, Undefeated pretty much grabbed me from the first chapter and didn’t let me go until the end; I read it in a day as I just couldn’t bear to put it down.
”I want your time and attention.”
There are a lot of books out at the moment that include characters that are struggling with PTSD, and the after effects. Some good, some bad, some indifferent, this is book quite simply puts you right in the middle of Liam’s struggles, Marlena’s attempts at understanding him, and their long and hard struggle to be together in a meaningful way whilst dealing with the rigors of everyday life and the innocent things that sometimes trigger the bad memories.
This is a book that really delves deep, into the causes, treatments and effects on a person as well as the people that care about them, who is struggling with mental issues. There are a lot of side stories playing out through this book as well as Liam and Marlena’s, and a lot of secondary characters that take a primary role at points, but it isn’t confusing, the writing is descriptive, emotive and full of expression, the humor when it comes is a little break from the drama and Melissa has managed to portray a beautiful, damaged, ornery, anti-social, lonely man, perfectly.
”My mouth only does one thing well, and talking’s not it.”
Liam is a blunt, brash, rude, dirty talking, devoted, compassionate and loyal guy and I fell in love with him. Marlena is spiritual, friendly, loving and happy on the surface; however as the story develops the things the pair of them have in common become more and more apparent as well.
”I’m going to be your solid ground tonight.”
There are points when Liam’s internal monologue and the actions of the Bomb Squad made me cry, I giggled a few times as well, a group of men shooting the shit with each other is always going to bring a smile to my face and the author really did capture their voices and the joviality of it from a male perspective really well.
"You always have a choice when you're with me. Remember that."
As the emotional bond and the building of trust between Liam and Marlena develops you also see them become more comfortable with each other and due to that the verbal sparring between them becomes more and more entertaining as well.
I loved this book, I loved the characters, it was unputdownable for me, a total surprise, it exceeded every expectation I had and then some. I cannot wait for the third book in the series Game Changer is due May 2015
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
The second book in Melissa Cutler’s Bomb Squad Series, came as a huge surprise to me. Whilst I enjoyed the first book Risky Business, it didn’t blow me away. Whereas, Undefeated pretty much grabbed me from the first chapter and didn’t let me go until the end; I read it in a day as I just couldn’t bear to put it down.
”I want your time and attention.”
There are a lot of books out at the moment that include characters that are struggling with PTSD, and the after effects. Some good, some bad, some indifferent, this is book quite simply puts you right in the middle of Liam’s struggles, Marlena’s attempts at understanding him, and their long and hard struggle to be together in a meaningful way whilst dealing with the rigors of everyday life and the innocent things that sometimes trigger the bad memories.
This is a book that really delves deep, into the causes, treatments and effects on a person as well as the people that care about them, who is struggling with mental issues. There are a lot of side stories playing out through this book as well as Liam and Marlena’s, and a lot of secondary characters that take a primary role at points, but it isn’t confusing, the writing is descriptive, emotive and full of expression, the humor when it comes is a little break from the drama and Melissa has managed to portray a beautiful, damaged, ornery, anti-social, lonely man, perfectly.
”My mouth only does one thing well, and talking’s not it.”
Liam is a blunt, brash, rude, dirty talking, devoted, compassionate and loyal guy and I fell in love with him. Marlena is spiritual, friendly, loving and happy on the surface; however as the story develops the things the pair of them have in common become more and more apparent as well.
”I’m going to be your solid ground tonight.”
There are points when Liam’s internal monologue and the actions of the Bomb Squad made me cry, I giggled a few times as well, a group of men shooting the shit with each other is always going to bring a smile to my face and the author really did capture their voices and the joviality of it from a male perspective really well.
"You always have a choice when you're with me. Remember that."
As the emotional bond and the building of trust between Liam and Marlena develops you also see them become more comfortable with each other and due to that the verbal sparring between them becomes more and more entertaining as well.
I loved this book, I loved the characters, it was unputdownable for me, a total surprise, it exceeded every expectation I had and then some. I cannot wait for the third book in the series Game Changer is due May 2015
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
June 1, 2018
3.5 stars
November 23, 2014
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Penguin Group via Net Galley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
4 Stars
I was completely sucked into this book right away. This is the second book in Melissa Cutler's Bomb Squad series but I believe that it could easily be read as a stand alone book. This series is focused on the players and friends of the Bomb Squad hockey team. Each book tells a different story based on the same set of characters. I tend to really enjoy stories that are a little different and this group of characters are anything but ordinary.
Marlena is the local yoga teacher who has just been enlisted to teach yoga to the Bomb Squad in an attempt to bring them out of their losing streak. This hockey team is composed of wounded warriors each facing their own set of challenges. Liam does not have any physical injuries from the war but struggles everyday with what he has seen and been through.
Liam and Marlena have known each other for years since Marlena and Olivia, Liam's twin sister, have been best friends from childhood. The first encounter between Marlena and Liam does not go well with each of them setting off triggers for the other. Marlena and Liam are both struggling to deal with events from their past and find strength in each other.
I really enjoyed this story. These characters were real. Marlena's denial of her past problems seemed completely authentic to me. The demons that Liam faced on a daily basis did not leave him acting like the nice guy. Liam was not the most likeable character but I felt that he seemed so real and I wanted Marlena to help give him strength. I love the members of the Bomb Squad and was thrilled that they were around a lot in this story.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance. This is the second book that I have had a chance to read by Melissa Cutler and I look forward to continuing with the series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Penguin Group via Net Galley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
4 Stars
I was completely sucked into this book right away. This is the second book in Melissa Cutler's Bomb Squad series but I believe that it could easily be read as a stand alone book. This series is focused on the players and friends of the Bomb Squad hockey team. Each book tells a different story based on the same set of characters. I tend to really enjoy stories that are a little different and this group of characters are anything but ordinary.
Marlena is the local yoga teacher who has just been enlisted to teach yoga to the Bomb Squad in an attempt to bring them out of their losing streak. This hockey team is composed of wounded warriors each facing their own set of challenges. Liam does not have any physical injuries from the war but struggles everyday with what he has seen and been through.
Liam and Marlena have known each other for years since Marlena and Olivia, Liam's twin sister, have been best friends from childhood. The first encounter between Marlena and Liam does not go well with each of them setting off triggers for the other. Marlena and Liam are both struggling to deal with events from their past and find strength in each other.
I really enjoyed this story. These characters were real. Marlena's denial of her past problems seemed completely authentic to me. The demons that Liam faced on a daily basis did not leave him acting like the nice guy. Liam was not the most likeable character but I felt that he seemed so real and I wanted Marlena to help give him strength. I love the members of the Bomb Squad and was thrilled that they were around a lot in this story.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance. This is the second book that I have had a chance to read by Melissa Cutler and I look forward to continuing with the series.
February 26, 2016
ARC REVIEW posted at Love Affair with an E-Reader
I came into this book thinking I was going to get a sports romance, but it really wasn’t. And yet, I was not disappointed after finishing this story.
Is there any other word for “angsty”? I dread that term because it is so often used in conjunction with either New Adult or Young Adult books, and this is neither. However, this is a book about a former soldier living with PTSD, feeling misunderstood and alone in the world. Into his world comes a woman from his past, a woman connected to his present and he can’t get over this itch he feels when he’s around her.
On the surface, they are seemingly incompatible. She is a yoga instructor and massage therapist. She is in control and exudes an aura of zen. Liam is a returning veteran with a severe case of PTSD, reliving the horrors he experienced during the war. This book gives me more insight into this condition. We get to rattle around in Liam’s head and gain insights into how debilitation PTSD can be. Dig a little deeper and we see that she is exactly what he needs. They are both survivors and healers. He describes her as both serenity and fire. I like how she doesn’t come in to fix him, but rather accepts him for who is today. She sees him not merely as a wounded veteran like so many others, but as “flesh, blood, pain, joy, and a million other facets in between.” She works with him to make a satisfying life.
IN A NUTSHELL:
This book is fiercely emotional and unrelenting. If you are looking for a light-hearted sports romance, this is not the book for you. But if you want a dive into an exploration of something deeper, you’ll want to snuggle under a blanket and break out your e-reader for this one.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an
honest review.
I came into this book thinking I was going to get a sports romance, but it really wasn’t. And yet, I was not disappointed after finishing this story.
Is there any other word for “angsty”? I dread that term because it is so often used in conjunction with either New Adult or Young Adult books, and this is neither. However, this is a book about a former soldier living with PTSD, feeling misunderstood and alone in the world. Into his world comes a woman from his past, a woman connected to his present and he can’t get over this itch he feels when he’s around her.
On the surface, they are seemingly incompatible. She is a yoga instructor and massage therapist. She is in control and exudes an aura of zen. Liam is a returning veteran with a severe case of PTSD, reliving the horrors he experienced during the war. This book gives me more insight into this condition. We get to rattle around in Liam’s head and gain insights into how debilitation PTSD can be. Dig a little deeper and we see that she is exactly what he needs. They are both survivors and healers. He describes her as both serenity and fire. I like how she doesn’t come in to fix him, but rather accepts him for who is today. She sees him not merely as a wounded veteran like so many others, but as “flesh, blood, pain, joy, and a million other facets in between.” She works with him to make a satisfying life.
IN A NUTSHELL:
This book is fiercely emotional and unrelenting. If you are looking for a light-hearted sports romance, this is not the book for you. But if you want a dive into an exploration of something deeper, you’ll want to snuggle under a blanket and break out your e-reader for this one.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an
honest review.
October 17, 2014
4 1/2 stars
Wow - this is not just a book about hockey - and actually fans of hockey you might be disappointed. This book has a wounded warrior - one with wounds you can not see - desperately trying to find his new normal, it also has a heroine that has fought back from her own personal trauma and hides its scars from everyone....until our hero sees so much of himself in her!
Liam and Marlena are a fantastic couple - one may think were not made for each other. They have deep understanding for each other, and it turns into love.
Undefeated not all hearts and flowers. There is trauma, there are pasts that need to be dealt with, there are secondary characters who just don't understand Liam and Marlena's connection. It is not an easy read, but it is very rewarding when you are done.
I like that there is a whole hockey team of players in this series, seems like I will be visiting Destiny Falls for a long time!
Go - pre-order NOW!
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
Wow - this is not just a book about hockey - and actually fans of hockey you might be disappointed. This book has a wounded warrior - one with wounds you can not see - desperately trying to find his new normal, it also has a heroine that has fought back from her own personal trauma and hides its scars from everyone....until our hero sees so much of himself in her!
Liam and Marlena are a fantastic couple - one may think were not made for each other. They have deep understanding for each other, and it turns into love.
Undefeated not all hearts and flowers. There is trauma, there are pasts that need to be dealt with, there are secondary characters who just don't understand Liam and Marlena's connection. It is not an easy read, but it is very rewarding when you are done.
I like that there is a whole hockey team of players in this series, seems like I will be visiting Destiny Falls for a long time!
Go - pre-order NOW!
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
November 19, 2014
My Review:
Wow...I love wounded heroes and I love sports themed novels. Melissa Cutler has done an amazing job combining two of my favorites into an incredible series. The Bomb Squad is a hockey team made up of wounded vets, but not all wounds are visible.
Liam is one of those vets with hidden wounds. He was a medic who served in Afghanistan for three tours and now suffers horrible PTSD. He's haunted by not only the soldiers he didn't save, but also by the woman and children civilians that died on his watch. Liam is a mess of triggers and issues and is well aware of that so he avoids people, even his twin sister.
Marlena understand PTSD as she has her own version of it. She was attacked and hospitalized at the age of ten. She's adopted a wholesome, somewhat new age lifestyle, to deal with that lack of control. She also owns and teaches yoga at her studio.
This couple is explosive together. They are both very self-aware. They have to be with their issues and Melissa Cutler did an exceptional job of explaining these through the initial scenes between the two where everything went wrong because of their triggers. This is an emotional book, but it is so well-done. Liam can be a jerk, but he has such amazing reasons for that. Marlena sees it even though her friends, including his twin sister, don't understand. I loved how she stood by him because she knew the man he truly was, despite the evidence to the contrary.
There are also a lot of family issues in this book. Liam and Olivia...my heart hurt that he wouldn't just talk to her so she could understand. If there was one issue I had with this book, I wish things could have been better resolved between the two of them....maybe that will come in a later book. But then there's also Marlena's entire family dynamic which just hurt to watch. Her brother is mentally ill and no one is willing to face up to that...to the detriment of Marlena. I loved how Liam fought to put his issues aside when it came to helping her and putting her needs first...the sign of a true hero.
This is book #2 in this series and I highly recommend it...if you like military heroes, if you like sports books, or if you like angst. These are definitely good ones!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Wow...I love wounded heroes and I love sports themed novels. Melissa Cutler has done an amazing job combining two of my favorites into an incredible series. The Bomb Squad is a hockey team made up of wounded vets, but not all wounds are visible.
Liam is one of those vets with hidden wounds. He was a medic who served in Afghanistan for three tours and now suffers horrible PTSD. He's haunted by not only the soldiers he didn't save, but also by the woman and children civilians that died on his watch. Liam is a mess of triggers and issues and is well aware of that so he avoids people, even his twin sister.
Marlena understand PTSD as she has her own version of it. She was attacked and hospitalized at the age of ten. She's adopted a wholesome, somewhat new age lifestyle, to deal with that lack of control. She also owns and teaches yoga at her studio.
This couple is explosive together. They are both very self-aware. They have to be with their issues and Melissa Cutler did an exceptional job of explaining these through the initial scenes between the two where everything went wrong because of their triggers. This is an emotional book, but it is so well-done. Liam can be a jerk, but he has such amazing reasons for that. Marlena sees it even though her friends, including his twin sister, don't understand. I loved how she stood by him because she knew the man he truly was, despite the evidence to the contrary.
There are also a lot of family issues in this book. Liam and Olivia...my heart hurt that he wouldn't just talk to her so she could understand. If there was one issue I had with this book, I wish things could have been better resolved between the two of them....maybe that will come in a later book. But then there's also Marlena's entire family dynamic which just hurt to watch. Her brother is mentally ill and no one is willing to face up to that...to the detriment of Marlena. I loved how Liam fought to put his issues aside when it came to helping her and putting her needs first...the sign of a true hero.
This is book #2 in this series and I highly recommend it...if you like military heroes, if you like sports books, or if you like angst. These are definitely good ones!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 6, 2017
5 Star Read:
I'm head over heels for this series. Rushing like a fool to read book 3 and I'm hoping it won't be the last.
My absolute favorite and will read again and again. I strongly recommend! It has outstanding qualities. The characters are wonderful and surprising and multi-dimensional. The writing is luring, engaging, and well-crafted enough to keep me interested from cover to cover and beyond. The plot is astonishing with twists and turns weaved into a well thought and planned story. There’s no pretense and romance was well balanced and done entirely correctly with properly distributed amounts of hints, behaviors and incredible, undeniable chemistry. Predictability is at an all-time low. With the exception of series based books that follow the same path but are just as good. Overall, Favorite, must read again, recommend!!!
I'm head over heels for this series. Rushing like a fool to read book 3 and I'm hoping it won't be the last.
My absolute favorite and will read again and again. I strongly recommend! It has outstanding qualities. The characters are wonderful and surprising and multi-dimensional. The writing is luring, engaging, and well-crafted enough to keep me interested from cover to cover and beyond. The plot is astonishing with twists and turns weaved into a well thought and planned story. There’s no pretense and romance was well balanced and done entirely correctly with properly distributed amounts of hints, behaviors and incredible, undeniable chemistry. Predictability is at an all-time low. With the exception of series based books that follow the same path but are just as good. Overall, Favorite, must read again, recommend!!!
Read
November 30, 2014Oh, my goodness, oh, my goodness! Liam!
Wait til you meet Liam. I have a feeling his story will be explosive! Yup, a ticking time-bomb!
June 22, 2016
Marlena Brodie and Liam McAllister have known each other for most of their lives. She is his sister’s best friend and also the one girl in high school he wanted to be with but teased and embarrassed instead. Now ten years have gone by and though he has been home from the Army for two years his sister Olivia says he is broken. He has surprised her by being the winning bid of her gift of four massages, he bid higher than anyone probably too much, but the money was going to the wounded warriors for the area so it was worth it for him. She is now a yoga instructor and does massages. When he arrives he plan is to get back at Liam for the years past at the way he had treated her. His plan is to apologize for he has been in love with her since he was 13. This night does not go well and his PTSD comes up, but at the same time he realizes that she has gone through some kind of trauma as well. When he leaves and is walking across the street Marlena sees a broken man and one who needs help even though he keeps pushing everyone away. She decides to go to him in the next few days and see what she can do when he shows up at her apartment and instead of telling him to leave she invites him in. from that night forward not only did she invite him into her life but he is also slowly shedding himself to her. By letting her into his life though he does not know it they are becoming a couple, not what he wants, but he does not want to be without her either. Slowly he helps her with her trauma, and he begins to allow her to see some of his therapy to help overcome his. Being a combat medic for ten years was tough on him but it was the last patrol he was on that really sent him down this hole he has been in for a long time. There is also a hockey which is veterans who play against other teams from the area, you get a sense of what it is like for each one and their wounds to be on the ice and still be part of a team. The characters are very strong and there are a few tough scenes. Overall this is a fantastic book. I got this book from netgalley. I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
February 22, 2015
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
by Kim
After high school, Liam McAllister joined the Army. While serving time in Afghanistan, he was exposed to the harsh reality of war and realised just how violent and uncaring men were. His time in the Army changed him. He has returned to Destiny Falls, New York, suffering from PTSD. Liam is a carpenter and is also a member of the Bomb Squad which is a group of amature hockey players made up of wounded veterans with various disabilities.
Marlena Brodie has lived in Destiny Falls her whole life. She’s a yoga instructor who tries her best to stay attuned with the universe and seek peace. Unbeknownst to Marlena, she’s also suffering from PTSD. Marlena has had a thing for Liam, her best friend’s twin brother since they were kids. The two never really clicked but there was always some sort of pull between them. Now, a massage is about to change both of their lives.
Undefeated is the perfect title for this book, as it fits Liam and Marlena perfectly. While they each have struggled with their lives, they haven't given up although many would have. They simply have chosen to fight for themselves and each other. Undefeated is truly a gripping story that will have you screaming and weeping for the characters.
“It’s you and me, and all you have to do is breathe. I’m going to take care of everything else.”
Melissa Cutler has managed to pack a lot into this book. Undefeated goes beyond what I initially thought it was going to be about. Marlena and Liam have endured so much. Melissa truly captures the struggles of war veterans returning home and attempting to re-immerse themselves into the civilian population. She adequately captures the lives of family and friends trying to adjust as well. Prepare yourself for an emotional ride from start to finish.
**Copy courtesy of publisher, exchange for an honest and unbiased review.**
by Kim
After high school, Liam McAllister joined the Army. While serving time in Afghanistan, he was exposed to the harsh reality of war and realised just how violent and uncaring men were. His time in the Army changed him. He has returned to Destiny Falls, New York, suffering from PTSD. Liam is a carpenter and is also a member of the Bomb Squad which is a group of amature hockey players made up of wounded veterans with various disabilities.
Marlena Brodie has lived in Destiny Falls her whole life. She’s a yoga instructor who tries her best to stay attuned with the universe and seek peace. Unbeknownst to Marlena, she’s also suffering from PTSD. Marlena has had a thing for Liam, her best friend’s twin brother since they were kids. The two never really clicked but there was always some sort of pull between them. Now, a massage is about to change both of their lives.
Undefeated is the perfect title for this book, as it fits Liam and Marlena perfectly. While they each have struggled with their lives, they haven't given up although many would have. They simply have chosen to fight for themselves and each other. Undefeated is truly a gripping story that will have you screaming and weeping for the characters.
“It’s you and me, and all you have to do is breathe. I’m going to take care of everything else.”
Melissa Cutler has managed to pack a lot into this book. Undefeated goes beyond what I initially thought it was going to be about. Marlena and Liam have endured so much. Melissa truly captures the struggles of war veterans returning home and attempting to re-immerse themselves into the civilian population. She adequately captures the lives of family and friends trying to adjust as well. Prepare yourself for an emotional ride from start to finish.
**Copy courtesy of publisher, exchange for an honest and unbiased review.**
October 23, 2014
UNDEFEATED is an intense, emotional story about Liam McAllister, a broken man who is suffering from PTSD. After three deployments in the Middle East as an Army medic, Liam has seen things he wishes he could forget. He can’t get many of the horrific things he encountered out of his head, no matter how hard he tries. He’s a mess and having a hard time assimilating back into civilian life. Since he’s returned home, he’s become aggressive, anti social and feels uncomfortable in crowds. Liam is just surviving day to day, but his one saving grace is the Bomb Squad. The Bomb Squad is a recreational hockey team comprised of wounded veterans. They’re a motley crew, with a variety of missing limbs and they are all dealing with many different issues. They are brothers in arms with a deep connection because they have all been through hell and are trying to live a normal life again.
Marlena has been best friends with Liam’s twin sister for years and has always had a thing for Liam. She’s a yoga instructor and a spiritual person, who enjoys life, people and has an optimistic attitude. Liam and Marlena have a strong chemistry together, but Liam is emotionally unavailable and he has so many issues he’s dealing with, he doesn’t have time for anything else in his life. Marlena accepts Liam for the person he is and doesn’t expect more from him than he can give. She’s a warm compassionate person and has a way of understanding people and situations without any explanations.
This is a compelling, well written story with realistic, mature characters. Liam and Marlena both have issues they are dealing with, although Liam has many more. Liam’s a good guy, but overwhelmed with his life right now. He can be selfish and inconsiderate, but he cares about Marlena in his own way. They have an explosive sexual chemistry when they are together and I wanted things to work out between them.
Reviewed by Karen for Cocktails and Books
Marlena has been best friends with Liam’s twin sister for years and has always had a thing for Liam. She’s a yoga instructor and a spiritual person, who enjoys life, people and has an optimistic attitude. Liam and Marlena have a strong chemistry together, but Liam is emotionally unavailable and he has so many issues he’s dealing with, he doesn’t have time for anything else in his life. Marlena accepts Liam for the person he is and doesn’t expect more from him than he can give. She’s a warm compassionate person and has a way of understanding people and situations without any explanations.
This is a compelling, well written story with realistic, mature characters. Liam and Marlena both have issues they are dealing with, although Liam has many more. Liam’s a good guy, but overwhelmed with his life right now. He can be selfish and inconsiderate, but he cares about Marlena in his own way. They have an explosive sexual chemistry when they are together and I wanted things to work out between them.
Reviewed by Karen for Cocktails and Books
November 26, 2014
Not my taste.
Always comes down to characters, story, writing and afterglow. Here's how I saw it.
Characters. I didn't like Marlena. She confused me. I couldn't accept her serene yoga teacher and spiritual leader style when she considered herself a vixen. She would sneak over to the local fast food Mexican joint but duck out the back door so she couldn't be seen by those she'd told to avoid the place for their health. I just didn't like that or her. Then there was the first encounter with the sexy Liam and she freaked out accusing him of rape when that was so not the case. I'm not okay with that. The word feels unique to me. It's shouldn't be used lightly or thrown around during a panic attack. I just couldn't get over it.
I liked Liam. He's figuring out ways to deal with the emotional turmoil he was part of in the military. As a medic, he is haunted by all the guys he couldn't save. He uses yoga and P.E.T. therapy to try and lesson his triggers and be a human being again. The thing about Liam is that he likes control during sex. And he prefers it hard. I wish there was some hint in the blurb that this book had the dominance thing going on. While I'm find with those that like to read that, it's not my thing. Warning would have been nice.
I just didn't enjoy the story. Between Marlena feeling fake and the whole dominance thing, I just couldn't be content in the pages. There was a lot of the universe is bringing them together aspects that felt strange to me too. I just wasn't happy.
The writing was fine.
Mostly, I just wanted to be done and wash the story away with another book.
Always comes down to characters, story, writing and afterglow. Here's how I saw it.
Characters. I didn't like Marlena. She confused me. I couldn't accept her serene yoga teacher and spiritual leader style when she considered herself a vixen. She would sneak over to the local fast food Mexican joint but duck out the back door so she couldn't be seen by those she'd told to avoid the place for their health. I just didn't like that or her. Then there was the first encounter with the sexy Liam and she freaked out accusing him of rape when that was so not the case. I'm not okay with that. The word feels unique to me. It's shouldn't be used lightly or thrown around during a panic attack. I just couldn't get over it.
I liked Liam. He's figuring out ways to deal with the emotional turmoil he was part of in the military. As a medic, he is haunted by all the guys he couldn't save. He uses yoga and P.E.T. therapy to try and lesson his triggers and be a human being again. The thing about Liam is that he likes control during sex. And he prefers it hard. I wish there was some hint in the blurb that this book had the dominance thing going on. While I'm find with those that like to read that, it's not my thing. Warning would have been nice.
I just didn't enjoy the story. Between Marlena feeling fake and the whole dominance thing, I just couldn't be content in the pages. There was a lot of the universe is bringing them together aspects that felt strange to me too. I just wasn't happy.
The writing was fine.
Mostly, I just wanted to be done and wash the story away with another book.
November 24, 2014
Review posted at: http://bookcrushbookreviews.com/2014/...
Rating: 4 stars
Liam and Marlena have both experienced traumatic events in their past. Marlena has spent twenty years trying to forget what happened when she was ten years old. While Liam faces his nightmares head on with daily PET and weekly therapy. Both Liam and Marlena have yoga as a healthy centering outlet. The sensual connection between Liam and Marlena in their chakra moments was peaceful and calming. The Bomb Squad is a hockey team of wounded veterans. This group of "brothers" always has each other's back in their times of need. Then there's the group of girlfriends which Marlena is part of, that are all business owners in their town. This gang is fun, has great banter and their friendships are more solid and deep because they all have some pain yet help each other through every step of the way. Marlena has a sense of knowing when Liam needs some space and likewise, Liam respects when Marlena starts panicking as well. Liam has a strained relationship with his sister and his stubbornness became frustrating but this is proof that at times he feels suffocated and needs his space. Overall this is a comforting, tantric read with a great gang of friends and hot hockey players! Give this a try and find your next book crush!
Rating: 4 stars
Liam and Marlena have both experienced traumatic events in their past. Marlena has spent twenty years trying to forget what happened when she was ten years old. While Liam faces his nightmares head on with daily PET and weekly therapy. Both Liam and Marlena have yoga as a healthy centering outlet. The sensual connection between Liam and Marlena in their chakra moments was peaceful and calming. The Bomb Squad is a hockey team of wounded veterans. This group of "brothers" always has each other's back in their times of need. Then there's the group of girlfriends which Marlena is part of, that are all business owners in their town. This gang is fun, has great banter and their friendships are more solid and deep because they all have some pain yet help each other through every step of the way. Marlena has a sense of knowing when Liam needs some space and likewise, Liam respects when Marlena starts panicking as well. Liam has a strained relationship with his sister and his stubbornness became frustrating but this is proof that at times he feels suffocated and needs his space. Overall this is a comforting, tantric read with a great gang of friends and hot hockey players! Give this a try and find your next book crush!
November 18, 2014
Any one picking this up looking for a sports romance may be a little disappointed. Hockey is the backdrop but the real story is about a wounded warrior, Liam, dealing with PTSD and returning to life as a civilian. With all the turmoil in his life the last thing he has the ability to handle is a relationship. So when the attraction flares to Marlena, his sister's best friend, he does everything he can to push her away but the chemistry and desire is too strong.
This story is raw and compelling. Both main characters are dealing with demons but you can't help but cheer for them. It's a fantastic story that is so well written you find yourself totally consumed by it. This is a highly recommended read.
This story is raw and compelling. Both main characters are dealing with demons but you can't help but cheer for them. It's a fantastic story that is so well written you find yourself totally consumed by it. This is a highly recommended read.
January 8, 2015
"The night of his first massage, she'd shouted at him from across the parking lot that she could have been the one part of his life that wasn't a battle. How ironic, then, that when he touched her, when he kissed her, their relationship felt like the one thing in life worth fighting for."
March 30, 2018
After high school, Liam McAllister joined the Army. While serving time in Afghanistan, he was exposed to the harsh reality of war and realised just how violent and uncaring men were. His time in the Army changed him. He has returned to Destiny Falls, New York, suffering from PTSD. Liam is a carpenter and is also a member of the Bomb Squad which is a group of amature hockey players made up of wounded veterans with various disabilities.
Marlena Brodie has lived in Destiny Falls her whole life. She’s a yoga instructor who tries her best to stay attuned with the universe and seek peace. Unbeknownst to Marlena, she’s also suffering from PTSD. Marlena has had a thing for Liam, her best friend’s twin brother since they were kids. The two never really clicked but there was always some sort of pull between them. Now, a massage is about to change both of their lives.
Undefeated is the perfect title for this book, as it fits Liam and Marlena perfectly. While they each have struggled with their lives, they haven't given up although many would have. They simply have chosen to fight for themselves and each other. Undefeated is truly a gripping story that will have you screaming and weeping for the characters.
“It’s you and me, and all you have to do is breathe. I’m going to take care of everything else.”
Melissa Cutler has managed to pack a lot into this book. Undefeated goes beyond what I initially thought it was going to be about. Marlena and Liam have endured so much. Melissa truly captures the struggles of war veterans returning home and attempting to re-immerse themselves into the civilian population. She adequately captures the lives of family and friends trying to adjust as well. Prepare yourself for an emotional ride from start to finish.
**Received a copy of the book courtesy of the author and voluntarily reviewed.**
Marlena Brodie has lived in Destiny Falls her whole life. She’s a yoga instructor who tries her best to stay attuned with the universe and seek peace. Unbeknownst to Marlena, she’s also suffering from PTSD. Marlena has had a thing for Liam, her best friend’s twin brother since they were kids. The two never really clicked but there was always some sort of pull between them. Now, a massage is about to change both of their lives.
Undefeated is the perfect title for this book, as it fits Liam and Marlena perfectly. While they each have struggled with their lives, they haven't given up although many would have. They simply have chosen to fight for themselves and each other. Undefeated is truly a gripping story that will have you screaming and weeping for the characters.
“It’s you and me, and all you have to do is breathe. I’m going to take care of everything else.”
Melissa Cutler has managed to pack a lot into this book. Undefeated goes beyond what I initially thought it was going to be about. Marlena and Liam have endured so much. Melissa truly captures the struggles of war veterans returning home and attempting to re-immerse themselves into the civilian population. She adequately captures the lives of family and friends trying to adjust as well. Prepare yourself for an emotional ride from start to finish.
**Received a copy of the book courtesy of the author and voluntarily reviewed.**
May 30, 2015
Hotness Rating 3 out of 5
The Bomb Squad is a local hockey team made up of wounded warriors. Each man has his own demon to overcome both mental and physical and each man gets his story. Undefeated is the second book of this series and I have to say I am enjoying it more and more as it goes on. The characters are deep and well-developed. Melissa Cutler has a true gift in writing these characters with a light hand that still makes the story a fun read and not oppressive, but shares their stories and struggles in an honest way.
I thought Theo in book one had anger issues. Hmmm....meet Liam McAllister. As an ex-army medic Liam has seen too much and lost too many battles to ever feel whole again. He's haunted by those that he could not save and suffers from PTSD. And I mean suffers. He does his best to keep to himself to spare others from having to deal with his mood swings. Part of him even feels that he doesn't deserve a happy life. That's why when his sister's friend, the girl that occupies his mind way too much and makes him want more than he can ever have, crosses his path he does his best to discourage any chance of friendship or anything more.
Marlena Brody has had a crazy crush on Liam since high school. He's never exactly encouraged that crush even before he went into the army. Now, he definitely doesn't encourage it. That doesn't stop her from dreaming, though. Dealing with her own traumatic experience from childhood doesn't exactly give her the tools to tame the wild beast that is Liam. Marlena has a need for order and control, so she's set her life up to facilitate this. As a yoga instructor and wellness coach she meditates, uses scent therapy and anything else she can to keep balanced. And now she's been asked to use her skills to help the struggling Bomb Squad. They've been in a slump and can't seem to get out of it. She's hoping through yoga and meditation she can help the guys gain some balance and unity, as well. All of this just happens to throw her right into Liam's path and life.
I really, really enjoyed this story. Marlena started out badly with Liam in his first attempt to seduce her accusing him of assault. This all sets us up to learn of her personal demons, as well. Liam was just the man to help her to see that she has to deal with her past before she can get on with her future. Marlena was the perfect woman to give Liam a safe place to fight his battles and a calm, balanced place to recover. I can't imagine anyone else for this couple. Each is perfect for the other.
"...someday, when you trust me, I'll help you work on taking the power away from your triggers, maybe with a hard, rough *uck the way I like it. But, not until you trust me so much that I could have my hands on your neck and you'd know in your bones, all the way in your heart, that I would never physically hurt you. Got it?"
Ms. Cutler did an amazing job of educating and painting the picture in vivid detail of PTSD and some of the treatments to help deal with it's effects. She did an equally impressive job showing the effects of Schizophrenia on a family and the person who is dealing with it.
As you can see some very tough subjects were touched on in this book, but again Ms. Cutler did a great job of being true to the issues her characters faced without writing a dark and depressing story. I find this series truly enjoyable and can not wait to read more from these amazing characters.
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
The Bomb Squad is a local hockey team made up of wounded warriors. Each man has his own demon to overcome both mental and physical and each man gets his story. Undefeated is the second book of this series and I have to say I am enjoying it more and more as it goes on. The characters are deep and well-developed. Melissa Cutler has a true gift in writing these characters with a light hand that still makes the story a fun read and not oppressive, but shares their stories and struggles in an honest way.
I thought Theo in book one had anger issues. Hmmm....meet Liam McAllister. As an ex-army medic Liam has seen too much and lost too many battles to ever feel whole again. He's haunted by those that he could not save and suffers from PTSD. And I mean suffers. He does his best to keep to himself to spare others from having to deal with his mood swings. Part of him even feels that he doesn't deserve a happy life. That's why when his sister's friend, the girl that occupies his mind way too much and makes him want more than he can ever have, crosses his path he does his best to discourage any chance of friendship or anything more.
Marlena Brody has had a crazy crush on Liam since high school. He's never exactly encouraged that crush even before he went into the army. Now, he definitely doesn't encourage it. That doesn't stop her from dreaming, though. Dealing with her own traumatic experience from childhood doesn't exactly give her the tools to tame the wild beast that is Liam. Marlena has a need for order and control, so she's set her life up to facilitate this. As a yoga instructor and wellness coach she meditates, uses scent therapy and anything else she can to keep balanced. And now she's been asked to use her skills to help the struggling Bomb Squad. They've been in a slump and can't seem to get out of it. She's hoping through yoga and meditation she can help the guys gain some balance and unity, as well. All of this just happens to throw her right into Liam's path and life.
I really, really enjoyed this story. Marlena started out badly with Liam in his first attempt to seduce her accusing him of assault. This all sets us up to learn of her personal demons, as well. Liam was just the man to help her to see that she has to deal with her past before she can get on with her future. Marlena was the perfect woman to give Liam a safe place to fight his battles and a calm, balanced place to recover. I can't imagine anyone else for this couple. Each is perfect for the other.
"...someday, when you trust me, I'll help you work on taking the power away from your triggers, maybe with a hard, rough *uck the way I like it. But, not until you trust me so much that I could have my hands on your neck and you'd know in your bones, all the way in your heart, that I would never physically hurt you. Got it?"
Ms. Cutler did an amazing job of educating and painting the picture in vivid detail of PTSD and some of the treatments to help deal with it's effects. She did an equally impressive job showing the effects of Schizophrenia on a family and the person who is dealing with it.
As you can see some very tough subjects were touched on in this book, but again Ms. Cutler did a great job of being true to the issues her characters faced without writing a dark and depressing story. I find this series truly enjoyable and can not wait to read more from these amazing characters.
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
November 20, 2014
When I chose the ARC copy of Undefeated, I thought I was getting a light hearted sports romance with the typical story line. I love any kind of book that is based upon a hockey team and their players. What I didn’t count on was getting a deep, emotional book that dealt with some heavy issues. Needless to say, this book was a rewarding surprise. I enjoyed every single word, the complex characters, and the emotional angst they experienced.
Liam McAllister has come back from the war with a severe case of PTSD. He served as medic for three tours in Afghanistan. He is haunted by the memories of soldiers he couldn’t save, the soldiers that were maimed for life, and the atrocities committed against innocent civilians. He can’t get these horrific memories out of his head and it is affecting his life. He has become anti social, aggressive, withdrawn, and very uncomfortable around crowds. He is not assimilating back into civilian life very well. He is struggling to survive his daily life and routines. The one thing that is helping him is being a member of the Bomb Squad Hockey Team.
The Bomb Squad Hockey team is a recreational community team compiled of wounded veterans. Some are missing limbs, some are suffering from PTSD, and all of them have some kind of issue. Their former war experiences have bonded them together. They are more than teammates. They are brothers. Hockey is more than a sport for them. It is an outlet that allows them to vent their aggression, pent up hostilities, and antsy feelings on the ice rather than in their personal lives. It is their therapy.
Marlena Brodie is a yoga instructor. She is a very spiritual person. She understands PTSD because she suffers from her own version of it. She was attacked as a child. She has embraced the wholesome new age lifestyle as a means to dealing with her memories. When she meets Liam she recognizes a kindred soul. She understands him more than he understands himself. She can deal with his outbursts, bad attitude, and triggers. She truly sees the real man that he is beneath all of the pain and suffering. She stands by him and helps him deal with the emotional scars he carries.
Liam and Marlena are perfect for one another. Their relationship goes beyond the explosive sexual chemistry. They are both very aware of their own issues but also aware of each other’s pain. They have an unique understanding of each other. They lend each other their strengths. They support their weaknesses. They soothe the pain. They give each other the kind of love that heals the soul. They have learned to set aside their own issues and put the other ones needs first. That is the true meaning of love.
Melissa Cutler wrote a beautiful emotional story. Not only were the main characters compelling, the secondary characters each had a story. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. These wounded warrior hockey players have captured my heart.
November 2, 2014
Liam McAllister is an ex soldier, carpenter, and plays on the Bomb Squad hockey team with other injured vets. He decides to make a move to try to spend time with his twin sister's best friend that he wronged in the past. But Liam's moves are not so smooth and the situation only gets worse.
Marlena Brodie is a yoga instructor, and likes things calm, serene and zen. She has her own issues and triggers that conflict with his harsh exterior, needs and preferences. They both want each other (and secretly have for a long time), but are not sure how to reconcile their issues to meet in the middle. She is sweet, tenacious and emotional. He craves control and is a bit rough. But due to new circumstances they will be seeing even more of each other.
He has serious issues and triggers due to PTSD and social anxiety. Most people do not understand him. He is trying hard to improve his situation through therapy, but it is difficult, heartbreaking and intense. He usually does not share with anyone, even his family and friends. He has isolated himself in his own prison of pain, regret, guilt, and loss. But he eventually begins to see that she helps make it better vs. overwhelming him more. And he becomes protective of her and can understand her problems. And they can ground each other.
I'll admit that this one took me a bit to warm up too, even the characters. It was a bit awkward initially as their demons clashed full force before I had a handle on their back stories. And these seemingly opposite people...the sweet, gentle beauty vs. broken, mean beast was just the outer layering and both were really damaged on the inside with triggers and fears. But it was because of that they could cut the bullsh*t. I really started to feel for them as they tried to navigate the emotional landmines that each of them faced and tried to cope as best they could. I really began to feel their deep connection as the story went on.
This had emotional turmoil and past demons, but it was countered with humor, sex, and team/friend dynamics, and some suspense. I came to really like the Bomb Squad hockey team and Liam and Marlena grew on me too. It was told in both points of view allowing us to feel their insecurities, fears, and pain. It is about healing, love, self discovery, finding a safe place, opening up, and sharing deepest secrets and fears.
I did not read the first book Risky Business, but I had no trouble following the story since this was about a different couple. I am looking forward to the next story Game Changer with Harlow and Brandon who have been circling around each other. But I would aslo like to see more with Liam's sister Olivia and some of the other players especially Gabe and Will. This is such a lovable group of ex soldiers with varying disabilities, but they have such a positive attitude(most of the time) and sense of humor that you can't help but get sucked in by their camaraderie.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Marlena Brodie is a yoga instructor, and likes things calm, serene and zen. She has her own issues and triggers that conflict with his harsh exterior, needs and preferences. They both want each other (and secretly have for a long time), but are not sure how to reconcile their issues to meet in the middle. She is sweet, tenacious and emotional. He craves control and is a bit rough. But due to new circumstances they will be seeing even more of each other.
He has serious issues and triggers due to PTSD and social anxiety. Most people do not understand him. He is trying hard to improve his situation through therapy, but it is difficult, heartbreaking and intense. He usually does not share with anyone, even his family and friends. He has isolated himself in his own prison of pain, regret, guilt, and loss. But he eventually begins to see that she helps make it better vs. overwhelming him more. And he becomes protective of her and can understand her problems. And they can ground each other.
I'll admit that this one took me a bit to warm up too, even the characters. It was a bit awkward initially as their demons clashed full force before I had a handle on their back stories. And these seemingly opposite people...the sweet, gentle beauty vs. broken, mean beast was just the outer layering and both were really damaged on the inside with triggers and fears. But it was because of that they could cut the bullsh*t. I really started to feel for them as they tried to navigate the emotional landmines that each of them faced and tried to cope as best they could. I really began to feel their deep connection as the story went on.
This had emotional turmoil and past demons, but it was countered with humor, sex, and team/friend dynamics, and some suspense. I came to really like the Bomb Squad hockey team and Liam and Marlena grew on me too. It was told in both points of view allowing us to feel their insecurities, fears, and pain. It is about healing, love, self discovery, finding a safe place, opening up, and sharing deepest secrets and fears.
I did not read the first book Risky Business, but I had no trouble following the story since this was about a different couple. I am looking forward to the next story Game Changer with Harlow and Brandon who have been circling around each other. But I would aslo like to see more with Liam's sister Olivia and some of the other players especially Gabe and Will. This is such a lovable group of ex soldiers with varying disabilities, but they have such a positive attitude(most of the time) and sense of humor that you can't help but get sucked in by their camaraderie.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2014
It's always great when you're able to read a book on your TBR list, especially when you've received an early review copy from the author. I actually didn't realize the book was on my TBR until I came to post my review. Yes, I'm that busy these days! This review will also appear on Amazon and at my blog, In Patti's Imagination.
This was a solid 5 stars for me, no doubt. As anyone who reads my reviews knows, I'm all about the characters, and first of all, two of my favorite types of male characters are hockey players and soldiers. It's not often that I've met a literary one of either whom I didn't like. Combine them into the same guy? Yeah, I'm sold immediately - it's like my crack. So, the book would have to be pretty bad to drop below 3 stars for me before I read a word. Couple said hottie hero (and Liam is a hero, no doubt about that) with a strong, imperfect female lead? Love it. Marlena is so refreshing. She's warring constantly between the girl she was and the woman she has become, because Liam, you see, has been her crush since she was a girl. Turns out, Liam had a crush on her for years, too, but he had resorted to the little boy way of dealing with his feelings by being mean to the girl he liked.
All that sounds great, and if done well has the bones to be an excellent story, with characters I want to know. Thankfully, Melissa Cutler did not disappoint. Her sex scenes were hot, yet tasteful. The relationships were realistic, as were the settings and the emotions. Care was taken to respect and still reveal mental illness and PTSD - both from the perspective of a Vet and from that of loved ones - as well as a civilian type of PTSD that Marlena suffered. Yes, she and Liam speak the same language, even when he thinks her Eastern philosophy won't mesh with him and when she's not so sure she'll ever be the girl for a dominant alpha.
Bottom line here, the characters made me want to keep reading, even past my bedtime and before I did anything else this morning. A story that can accomplish such a feat warrants 4 stars, minimum, and this one had the extra oomph to push it up to five. Destiny Falls is populated with plenty of great secondary characters who need stories. Apparently, Harper and Brandon are already on my TBR, and I'm hoping, at the very least, for Olivia, Will and Gabe to get stories of their own. More Bomb Squad, please!
One word of caution, not so much for me, but for anyone who wants this to be a 'hockey' story. It's not a manual for the game. Personally, my hockey romances don't need to detail play-by-play all the way through. If you think they do, skip this series so you won't trash it for not meeting your expectations. Otherwise, enjoy!
This was a solid 5 stars for me, no doubt. As anyone who reads my reviews knows, I'm all about the characters, and first of all, two of my favorite types of male characters are hockey players and soldiers. It's not often that I've met a literary one of either whom I didn't like. Combine them into the same guy? Yeah, I'm sold immediately - it's like my crack. So, the book would have to be pretty bad to drop below 3 stars for me before I read a word. Couple said hottie hero (and Liam is a hero, no doubt about that) with a strong, imperfect female lead? Love it. Marlena is so refreshing. She's warring constantly between the girl she was and the woman she has become, because Liam, you see, has been her crush since she was a girl. Turns out, Liam had a crush on her for years, too, but he had resorted to the little boy way of dealing with his feelings by being mean to the girl he liked.
All that sounds great, and if done well has the bones to be an excellent story, with characters I want to know. Thankfully, Melissa Cutler did not disappoint. Her sex scenes were hot, yet tasteful. The relationships were realistic, as were the settings and the emotions. Care was taken to respect and still reveal mental illness and PTSD - both from the perspective of a Vet and from that of loved ones - as well as a civilian type of PTSD that Marlena suffered. Yes, she and Liam speak the same language, even when he thinks her Eastern philosophy won't mesh with him and when she's not so sure she'll ever be the girl for a dominant alpha.
Bottom line here, the characters made me want to keep reading, even past my bedtime and before I did anything else this morning. A story that can accomplish such a feat warrants 4 stars, minimum, and this one had the extra oomph to push it up to five. Destiny Falls is populated with plenty of great secondary characters who need stories. Apparently, Harper and Brandon are already on my TBR, and I'm hoping, at the very least, for Olivia, Will and Gabe to get stories of their own. More Bomb Squad, please!
One word of caution, not so much for me, but for anyone who wants this to be a 'hockey' story. It's not a manual for the game. Personally, my hockey romances don't need to detail play-by-play all the way through. If you think they do, skip this series so you won't trash it for not meeting your expectations. Otherwise, enjoy!
October 8, 2014
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com/
I read and reviewed this book for an honest review for Cocktails and Books.
UNDEFEATED is an intense, emotional story about Liam McAllister, a broken man who is suffering from PTSD. After three deployments in the Middle East as an Army medic, Liam has seen things he wishes he could forget. He can’t get many of the horrific things he encountered out of his head, no matter how hard he tries. He’s a mess and having a hard time assimilating back into civilian life. Since he’s returned home, he’s become aggressive, anti social and feels uncomfortable in crowds. Liam is just surviving day to day, but his one saving grace is the Bomb Squad. The Bomb Squad is a recreational hockey team comprised of wounded veterans. They’re a motley crew, with a variety of missing limbs and they are all dealing with many different issues. They are brothers in arms with a deep connection because they have all been through hell and are trying to live a normal life again.
Marlena has been best friends with Liam’s twin sister for years and has always had a thing for Liam. She’s a yoga instructor and a spiritual person, who enjoys life, people and has an optimistic attitude. Liam and Marlena have a strong chemistry together, but Liam is emotionally unavailable and he has so many issues he’s dealing with, he doesn’t have time for anything else in his life. Marlena accepts Liam for the person he is and doesn’t expect more from him than he can give. She’s a warm compassionate person and has a way of understanding people and situations without any explanations.
This is a compelling, well written story with realistic, mature characters. Liam and Marlena both have issues they are dealing with, although Liam has many more. Liam’s a good guy, but overwhelmed with his life right now. He can be selfish and inconsiderate, but he cares about Marlena in his own way. They have an explosive sexual chemistry when they are together and I wanted things to work out between them.
I read and reviewed this book for an honest review for Cocktails and Books.
UNDEFEATED is an intense, emotional story about Liam McAllister, a broken man who is suffering from PTSD. After three deployments in the Middle East as an Army medic, Liam has seen things he wishes he could forget. He can’t get many of the horrific things he encountered out of his head, no matter how hard he tries. He’s a mess and having a hard time assimilating back into civilian life. Since he’s returned home, he’s become aggressive, anti social and feels uncomfortable in crowds. Liam is just surviving day to day, but his one saving grace is the Bomb Squad. The Bomb Squad is a recreational hockey team comprised of wounded veterans. They’re a motley crew, with a variety of missing limbs and they are all dealing with many different issues. They are brothers in arms with a deep connection because they have all been through hell and are trying to live a normal life again.
Marlena has been best friends with Liam’s twin sister for years and has always had a thing for Liam. She’s a yoga instructor and a spiritual person, who enjoys life, people and has an optimistic attitude. Liam and Marlena have a strong chemistry together, but Liam is emotionally unavailable and he has so many issues he’s dealing with, he doesn’t have time for anything else in his life. Marlena accepts Liam for the person he is and doesn’t expect more from him than he can give. She’s a warm compassionate person and has a way of understanding people and situations without any explanations.
This is a compelling, well written story with realistic, mature characters. Liam and Marlena both have issues they are dealing with, although Liam has many more. Liam’s a good guy, but overwhelmed with his life right now. He can be selfish and inconsiderate, but he cares about Marlena in his own way. They have an explosive sexual chemistry when they are together and I wanted things to work out between them.
June 22, 2015
OMG! Words cannot express how much I loved this book! With each book I read in this series I think there's no way the author can top this book (and hero), but somehow she freaking does! I started at book 3 and adored it and cocky, manwhore Brandon. Then read book 1 and totally fell for Mr Gruff and Grumpypants Theo. Now upon finishing Defeated, I can honestly say without reservation that my heart belongs to the PTSD suffering Liam.
Liam's come out of the Army so full of grief, guilt and anger that he doesn't know what to do with it all. He is not an easy person to like or be around. On the surface he can be quite scary but beneath all those swirling emotions he's working on dealing with, there is an amazing man: an extremely talented carpenter; a smart man who was a medic in the army and could be a Dr if he chooses to; a fantastic dancer; a caring man who despite his base instincts is so gentle with Marlena it's beautiful to see and one who would walk through fire and back for her.
Brandon, Theo, Liam and all the other Bomb squad members are big badass alpha veterans who've been wounded in combat and have fought their way back to become good, honorable, strong men who still battle with their demons on a daily basis. They are survivors. And I've fallen for each and every one of them.
The most wonderful thing about this series (aside from the sexy, military vet heroes) is that the heroines are some of the most likable, relatable and BEST I've ever read. They are by no means perfect, each struggling with her own issues, but what they do for their wounded, struggling veterans through love and acceptance is a true thing of beauty. I would SO love to be friends with any of them.
I love the camaraderie between the guys on the team. I love the friendships among the girls and the humor. Defeated was very sexy too.
I cannot recommend this series enough. If you love romances featuring strong but wounded veterans who are struggling a bit and the caring and compassionate women who help them heal, then the Bomb Squad series is a must read.
Liam's come out of the Army so full of grief, guilt and anger that he doesn't know what to do with it all. He is not an easy person to like or be around. On the surface he can be quite scary but beneath all those swirling emotions he's working on dealing with, there is an amazing man: an extremely talented carpenter; a smart man who was a medic in the army and could be a Dr if he chooses to; a fantastic dancer; a caring man who despite his base instincts is so gentle with Marlena it's beautiful to see and one who would walk through fire and back for her.
Brandon, Theo, Liam and all the other Bomb squad members are big badass alpha veterans who've been wounded in combat and have fought their way back to become good, honorable, strong men who still battle with their demons on a daily basis. They are survivors. And I've fallen for each and every one of them.
The most wonderful thing about this series (aside from the sexy, military vet heroes) is that the heroines are some of the most likable, relatable and BEST I've ever read. They are by no means perfect, each struggling with her own issues, but what they do for their wounded, struggling veterans through love and acceptance is a true thing of beauty. I would SO love to be friends with any of them.
I love the camaraderie between the guys on the team. I love the friendships among the girls and the humor. Defeated was very sexy too.
I cannot recommend this series enough. If you love romances featuring strong but wounded veterans who are struggling a bit and the caring and compassionate women who help them heal, then the Bomb Squad series is a must read.
December 30, 2014
Melissa Cutler never ceases to amaze me with how she can write an intense romance, because Undefeated was a HUGE hit for me!!!
I knew going in that ex-Army medic, Liam McAllister, was so broken on the inside. There’s good reason why he hides a side of himself from everyone. I can’t even begin to relate to the level of PTSD he experiences, but Ms. Cutler was able to paint the raw and deep emotions of what he deals with on a daily basis. Now, I related to yoga instructor, Marlena Brodie, so well. I understood her way of thinking and listening to what the universe is trying to say. She has her own issues to deal with, too, and I appreciated how the subject of bi-polar disorder was tied into the plot. I love Liam and Marlena together! I like it when the author can show two people struggling individually find a way to make it work throughout their journey together. Ms. Cutler pulls that off in this story. Plus, it leaves you with a full feeling of hope for people in similar situations.
The Bomb Squad series is about a hockey team of wounded veterans. We get nice ice action in this one, as well as, heart-pounding moments. The sense of brotherhood and friendship between the characters is very much kept alive. I fell in love with the small town of Destiny Falls in book 1, Risky Business. Undefeated made me love the place and people even more!
Yes, this book can most certainly be read as a stand-alone. If you like hockey players and ex-military heroes in your romances, then you NEED to be reading this series! I can’t wait for the next book!
Lastly, a romance story with a hockey player is mighty fine, but there is something about a guy that does yoga that is super HOT…just sayin’!
I knew going in that ex-Army medic, Liam McAllister, was so broken on the inside. There’s good reason why he hides a side of himself from everyone. I can’t even begin to relate to the level of PTSD he experiences, but Ms. Cutler was able to paint the raw and deep emotions of what he deals with on a daily basis. Now, I related to yoga instructor, Marlena Brodie, so well. I understood her way of thinking and listening to what the universe is trying to say. She has her own issues to deal with, too, and I appreciated how the subject of bi-polar disorder was tied into the plot. I love Liam and Marlena together! I like it when the author can show two people struggling individually find a way to make it work throughout their journey together. Ms. Cutler pulls that off in this story. Plus, it leaves you with a full feeling of hope for people in similar situations.
The Bomb Squad series is about a hockey team of wounded veterans. We get nice ice action in this one, as well as, heart-pounding moments. The sense of brotherhood and friendship between the characters is very much kept alive. I fell in love with the small town of Destiny Falls in book 1, Risky Business. Undefeated made me love the place and people even more!
Yes, this book can most certainly be read as a stand-alone. If you like hockey players and ex-military heroes in your romances, then you NEED to be reading this series! I can’t wait for the next book!
Lastly, a romance story with a hockey player is mighty fine, but there is something about a guy that does yoga that is super HOT…just sayin’!
May 13, 2015
This is the second book in the Bomb Squad series but can easily be read as a standalone novel.
Wow! That is my feeling after reading this book. Undefeated was the first book that I have read by Melissa Cutler, but it has turned me into a fan. The characters are amazing; they're flawed but real. Liam is a war veteran struggling with PTSD and the Marlena is struggling with issues of her own. I love watching their relationship morph from hardly acknowledging each other into them becoming each others "person" and the calming force for each other when they start to struggle. There were just enough steamy sex scenes to keep the book entertaining, but they didn't over power the characters or the story-line. While I had originally thought that this story would be more centered around hockey, it's the heroes role as a war veteran that takes center stage. If you are a huge hockey fan and looking for a story centered around the ice, you might not enjoy t quite as much as I did.
While my all time favorite thing about this book were the characters, I also really enjoyed the unexpected twists the story took. I find that quite often when I read a book I can guess that certain events will happen. This this book however, I was surprised to see that I didn't have the story predicted as well as I thought. Some of my guesses weren't too far off the mark but the way that it occurred was very unexpected.
This book hands down will be one of the books that I recommend to friends as a MUST READ for the summer and I look forward to continuing on with the series and the other Bomb Squad Members.
*I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*
Wow! That is my feeling after reading this book. Undefeated was the first book that I have read by Melissa Cutler, but it has turned me into a fan. The characters are amazing; they're flawed but real. Liam is a war veteran struggling with PTSD and the Marlena is struggling with issues of her own. I love watching their relationship morph from hardly acknowledging each other into them becoming each others "person" and the calming force for each other when they start to struggle. There were just enough steamy sex scenes to keep the book entertaining, but they didn't over power the characters or the story-line. While I had originally thought that this story would be more centered around hockey, it's the heroes role as a war veteran that takes center stage. If you are a huge hockey fan and looking for a story centered around the ice, you might not enjoy t quite as much as I did.
While my all time favorite thing about this book were the characters, I also really enjoyed the unexpected twists the story took. I find that quite often when I read a book I can guess that certain events will happen. This this book however, I was surprised to see that I didn't have the story predicted as well as I thought. Some of my guesses weren't too far off the mark but the way that it occurred was very unexpected.
This book hands down will be one of the books that I recommend to friends as a MUST READ for the summer and I look forward to continuing on with the series and the other Bomb Squad Members.
*I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*
May 6, 2015
Undefeated (Bomb Squad #2) by Melissa Cutler Yoga instructor Marlena Brodie needs to work with her best friend Olivia’s brother and her high school crush, Liam McAllister, after volunteering to help the Bomb Squad.
The book starts out with Liam winning a message with Marlena. Marlena and Liam end up in an argument and have some issues that need to be resolved. In the meantime, the Bomb Squad is not doing so well. The coach and Marlena set up yoga classes for the team in hopes that it will help balance the team and bring back their focus.
Because of the classes, Marlena and Liam start spending a lot of time together. It turns out; they have a lot in common. I love that he lets Marlena in. She understands him and is an asset towards his recovery.
Unlike the rest of the Bomb Squad that suffered physical injuries while in the military. Liam suffers from mental problems. Liam was a medic in the military but gave up practicing after his trauma. As part of his rehabilitation, he used prolonged exposure therapy or P.E.T. He loves playing hockey on the Bomb Squad but feels like a hypocrite because he does not have a physical ailment. However, Liam has had a difficult battle recovering.
Some amazing things happen in this book. It is scary and heartwarming. It is sweet and humorous. Melissa Cutler does a fantastic job writing a realist and moving novel. This is one of those stories I don’t think I will ever forget. It would make an inspirational movie.
Complimentary copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book starts out with Liam winning a message with Marlena. Marlena and Liam end up in an argument and have some issues that need to be resolved. In the meantime, the Bomb Squad is not doing so well. The coach and Marlena set up yoga classes for the team in hopes that it will help balance the team and bring back their focus.
Because of the classes, Marlena and Liam start spending a lot of time together. It turns out; they have a lot in common. I love that he lets Marlena in. She understands him and is an asset towards his recovery.
Unlike the rest of the Bomb Squad that suffered physical injuries while in the military. Liam suffers from mental problems. Liam was a medic in the military but gave up practicing after his trauma. As part of his rehabilitation, he used prolonged exposure therapy or P.E.T. He loves playing hockey on the Bomb Squad but feels like a hypocrite because he does not have a physical ailment. However, Liam has had a difficult battle recovering.
Some amazing things happen in this book. It is scary and heartwarming. It is sweet and humorous. Melissa Cutler does a fantastic job writing a realist and moving novel. This is one of those stories I don’t think I will ever forget. It would make an inspirational movie.
Complimentary copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2014
I was gifted this book from Netgalley and the Publisher in exchange for a fair review.
Undefeated (Bomb Squad, #2), by Melissa Cutler isn't a sporty book really like one would think. It is more emotional and agnsty. Cutler does a good job in character development and really makes us feel what her characters are going through. This isn't your typical light and fun sports romance, if that's is what you're looking for, your getting much more than that.
Bomb Squad is a hockey team made up of wounded warriors. They are on a losing streak so they are up for trying new things... well kinda up for it anyway. Yoga instructor Marlana is the woman for the job. Liam was a medic in the Army, he saw more than any one person ever should see in a lifetime. Liam is suffering from PTSD and isn't interested in the world outside the Army. These two dated back in high school and never forgot each other. They are exactly what each other needs to heal. Life doesn't work that way, if only it was that easy. The sexual tension is high!!!
This is a great group of characters and I am going to have to go back and read the first book (this book can be read as a standalone). I love the idea of a series being based on wounded vets. I've never read another series based on this. I applaud Melissa Cutler for going a little outside the box. We need more diverse romance novels. Hint: not everyone is a billionaire.
I give Undefeated by Melissa Cutler 4 Platypires also known as stars!
Bama Love! Roll Tide! and Keep Reading Y'all!!
~Renee
Undefeated (Bomb Squad, #2), by Melissa Cutler isn't a sporty book really like one would think. It is more emotional and agnsty. Cutler does a good job in character development and really makes us feel what her characters are going through. This isn't your typical light and fun sports romance, if that's is what you're looking for, your getting much more than that.
Bomb Squad is a hockey team made up of wounded warriors. They are on a losing streak so they are up for trying new things... well kinda up for it anyway. Yoga instructor Marlana is the woman for the job. Liam was a medic in the Army, he saw more than any one person ever should see in a lifetime. Liam is suffering from PTSD and isn't interested in the world outside the Army. These two dated back in high school and never forgot each other. They are exactly what each other needs to heal. Life doesn't work that way, if only it was that easy. The sexual tension is high!!!
This is a great group of characters and I am going to have to go back and read the first book (this book can be read as a standalone). I love the idea of a series being based on wounded vets. I've never read another series based on this. I applaud Melissa Cutler for going a little outside the box. We need more diverse romance novels. Hint: not everyone is a billionaire.
I give Undefeated by Melissa Cutler 4 Platypires also known as stars!
Bama Love! Roll Tide! and Keep Reading Y'all!!
~Renee
November 18, 2014
Oh my gawd, the FEELS!! I loved this book but I will warn you this is not a light book. It is heartbreaking, and gut wrenching and sooo beautiful! I absolutely could not put this book down, it ate my whole day (and I loved every minute of it!). This book covers some pretty difficult topics including PTSD, schizophrenia, and violence in various settings, if any of these are triggers for you, you may want to skip this one. If you can handle the subject matter though I can't recommend this book highly enough.
Liam is so damaged, but so strong. He's trying to get as well as he can, struggling with his PTSD, and not really wanting to fully reintegrate into the civilian world (he has a pretty fair amount of disdain for the travails of civilians after all he has seen). Marlena is a healer. She practices yoga, aromatherapy and other holistic healing techniques. But she also has her own scars from her past that come out to haunt her. I really loved these two together, they kinda seemed like yin and yang to me. They balance each other,help each other and each seems to make the other want to be better.
It was great to see all the secondary characters again too. I love the Bomb Squad and the girls! I can't wait for Game Changer (Harper and Brandon’s story) to come out! I just can't get enough of this series! I love how Melissa is not afraid to tackle tough subjects and I can't wait to see what she takes on in the next book. I received an ARC from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Liam is so damaged, but so strong. He's trying to get as well as he can, struggling with his PTSD, and not really wanting to fully reintegrate into the civilian world (he has a pretty fair amount of disdain for the travails of civilians after all he has seen). Marlena is a healer. She practices yoga, aromatherapy and other holistic healing techniques. But she also has her own scars from her past that come out to haunt her. I really loved these two together, they kinda seemed like yin and yang to me. They balance each other,help each other and each seems to make the other want to be better.
It was great to see all the secondary characters again too. I love the Bomb Squad and the girls! I can't wait for Game Changer (Harper and Brandon’s story) to come out! I just can't get enough of this series! I love how Melissa is not afraid to tackle tough subjects and I can't wait to see what she takes on in the next book. I received an ARC from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2014
Another great book from this author...This is really turning out to be a great series....Not only is it about a great sport like Ice Hockey, but the team is also made up of wounded war veterans. Each player in the team has obstacles to overcome as they readjust to civilian life and playing for the Bomb Squad helps them accomplish that.
This is Liam and Marlena's story and even thought Liam does not have any "damage" to his body from the war he has terrible PTSD.
Marlena is a yoga instructor who has had a crush on her best friend Olivia's twin brother for years. In high school he went out of his way to humiliate her, and then when he came back from being overseas he was not the same person who left. He is mean, grumpy and just plain miserable. But Marlena is not giving up on him and what ensues is the story between someone who is so wounded inside, with so much hurt and a young lady who has her own obstacles to overcome as Liam helps her get over something horrible that happened in her own past.
As I said, a great read and even though I don't like the mumbo jumbo new age crap, I still enjoyed it.
I really and when I say that, I mean I REALLY want Brandon and Harpers story....Reading that first chapter at the end of the book has only just whetted my appetite and I need more NOW!!!! How is she ever going to get over his manwhore tendencies.....cant wait!!!
This is Liam and Marlena's story and even thought Liam does not have any "damage" to his body from the war he has terrible PTSD.
Marlena is a yoga instructor who has had a crush on her best friend Olivia's twin brother for years. In high school he went out of his way to humiliate her, and then when he came back from being overseas he was not the same person who left. He is mean, grumpy and just plain miserable. But Marlena is not giving up on him and what ensues is the story between someone who is so wounded inside, with so much hurt and a young lady who has her own obstacles to overcome as Liam helps her get over something horrible that happened in her own past.
As I said, a great read and even though I don't like the mumbo jumbo new age crap, I still enjoyed it.
I really and when I say that, I mean I REALLY want Brandon and Harpers story....Reading that first chapter at the end of the book has only just whetted my appetite and I need more NOW!!!! How is she ever going to get over his manwhore tendencies.....cant wait!!!
November 22, 2014
Undefeated is the second book in the Bomb Squad series and just like the first book, my heart goes out to these wounded vets and the women who love them. Loving a member of the Bomb Squad is no easy feat, it's going to take time and strength to break down some of their guarded walls. It's also going to take time to really see them for who they are, behind all the scars and anger.
Melissa Cutler always writes well-written books, that grab your attention and make you forget the outside world. In Undefeated this author talks about serious issues, PTSD is one of them and she does an amazing job with getting the emotions to come alive on the page. If I could sum up undefeated in a few words I would choose heartbreaking, emotional and raw. What I really love about this series, is that the characters aren't perfect. They each have their own problems and they each find someone who, see's through their outside image into the person they are and the person they want to be.
Undefeated isn't for the faint at heart, so if you're looking for unicorns or a white picket fence, this isn't for you. But if you want to read a beautiful romance, that will grip you by the heart and make you believe that love is real, even after all the bad stuff you might have gone through or seen, then this book is the right one for you.
Melissa Cutler always writes well-written books, that grab your attention and make you forget the outside world. In Undefeated this author talks about serious issues, PTSD is one of them and she does an amazing job with getting the emotions to come alive on the page. If I could sum up undefeated in a few words I would choose heartbreaking, emotional and raw. What I really love about this series, is that the characters aren't perfect. They each have their own problems and they each find someone who, see's through their outside image into the person they are and the person they want to be.
Undefeated isn't for the faint at heart, so if you're looking for unicorns or a white picket fence, this isn't for you. But if you want to read a beautiful romance, that will grip you by the heart and make you believe that love is real, even after all the bad stuff you might have gone through or seen, then this book is the right one for you.
November 20, 2014
Undefeated by Melissa Cutler is the sequel to the first book in the Bomb Squad series, Risky Business. This book deals with Liam McAllister, who was an intriguing supporting character in Risky Business. I don’t think I have ever read of two more opposite characters who so perfectly balance each other more than Liam and Marlena. She is serene while he is rough and gruff. They have a past and the future is looking dim with Liam’s actions in the present. This is compelling and enticing read just to see how it works out in the end.
Bomb Squad is just splendid as the name for the injured veterans’ hockey team. However, this is not a hockey book, which is fine by me. It really is a story of recovering, rebuilding, and the struggles for a normal life after surviving war injuries. I find these subjects to be of greater interest and relevance.
I did find Liam’s and Marlena’s story to be more explicit in nature than Risky Business. I’m not sure why I think this is true, but they certainly have sizzling chemistry that is explore in their encounters with each other. However, most compelling is their struggle for personal identity, along with making emotional connections while forging a lasting relationship.
4.5 stars
Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Bomb Squad is just splendid as the name for the injured veterans’ hockey team. However, this is not a hockey book, which is fine by me. It really is a story of recovering, rebuilding, and the struggles for a normal life after surviving war injuries. I find these subjects to be of greater interest and relevance.
I did find Liam’s and Marlena’s story to be more explicit in nature than Risky Business. I’m not sure why I think this is true, but they certainly have sizzling chemistry that is explore in their encounters with each other. However, most compelling is their struggle for personal identity, along with making emotional connections while forging a lasting relationship.
4.5 stars
Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
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