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First to Fight #2.5
Valor
Former MARSOC operator Benjamin Hart thought he knew everything there was to know about love. Losing it, winning it back. Now, he’ll have to learn what it will take to keep it.
Years after the conclusion of their story, Ben and Olivia are happily married with two children and are living the American Dream. The only problem is stealing moments from their busy lives for themselves.
Determined to get his wife alone, Ben whisks Livvie away to a romantic night—just the two of them and both are faced with learning what it means to live happily ever after.
Heartfelt and emotional, Valor is a sweet and hot slice-of-life holiday novella featuring the main characters from Warrior.
Years after the conclusion of their story, Ben and Olivia are happily married with two children and are living the American Dream. The only problem is stealing moments from their busy lives for themselves.
Determined to get his wife alone, Ben whisks Livvie away to a romantic night—just the two of them and both are faced with learning what it means to live happily ever after.
Heartfelt and emotional, Valor is a sweet and hot slice-of-life holiday novella featuring the main characters from Warrior.
128 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2023
140 people are currently reading
556 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Blanchard
62 books1,974 followersNicole Blanchard is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the TikTok-viral dark romance Toxic, a wildly addictive bestseller that has sold over 90,000 copies worldwide. Known for her morally gray antiheroes, off-the-charts heat, and jaw-dropping twists, Nicole’s stories drag readers deep into love’s darkest corners—where no one escapes unscarred.
When she’s not crafting twisted love stories that break your heart and then heal it, you can find her soaking up beach sun with a glass of sweet tea, getting inked, or running a farm full of lovable misfit animals.
You may learn more about Nicole and her work at www.authornicoleblanchard.com. Join her mailing list for updates at http://www.authornicoleblanchard.com/...
When she’s not crafting twisted love stories that break your heart and then heal it, you can find her soaking up beach sun with a glass of sweet tea, getting inked, or running a farm full of lovable misfit animals.
You may learn more about Nicole and her work at www.authornicoleblanchard.com. Join her mailing list for updates at http://www.authornicoleblanchard.com/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 2, 2020
Valor is riveting, real, and refreshing. This story shows life as it truly is in its
messiest, mundane, and trying form, and yet there is life-giving hope and love weaved in each word and touch and emotion. Even in our day to day lives, we are desperate for that hope and love to counteract the fear and anxiety that we face every second. Our goal needs to be finding a balance between the peace and the madness where we continue to treasure and savor the people in our life that matter most.
Livvie and Ben stole my heart once again as I was given the immense gift of having another peek into their lives. We watch as they struggle to balance the chaos of life with the peace and love they invite to reign within the walls of their home. Life continues to test them, but they never fail to turn to each other and lean upon the solid rock of their love and commitment to each other. They invite the light of hope to remind them of what all they have overcome and will continue to overcome as long as remember to love, listen, and fight together. What is stronger then a love that has been tested and tried in the fires of destruction and tragedy?
My heart leapt for joy knowing I would be visiting this beautiful and extraordinary couple again. I love watching their precious love guide their decisions and make them rich beyond measure. What a great sight to behold! Nothing is as breathtaking or as stunning. Their strength never fails to amaze and astound me as their come back from everything that life throws their way. What a fabulous partnership and trust they have. It is truly something beautiful to admire and emulate.
Nicole Blanchard has swept my heart into a wonderous new adventure with this amazing small family who brings me to my knees with their powerful and uncompromising love and devotion. She is a fabulous author who truly admires the human spirit, and always appreciates the small things in life which never fail to be the most important things. So do not miss out on this wonderful addition to her series that thanks the service men and women of our country and their amazing families who sacrifice right along with them. What a fabulous tribute to their continued struggles and fierce courage they exhibit each and every day. Thank you!!!
messiest, mundane, and trying form, and yet there is life-giving hope and love weaved in each word and touch and emotion. Even in our day to day lives, we are desperate for that hope and love to counteract the fear and anxiety that we face every second. Our goal needs to be finding a balance between the peace and the madness where we continue to treasure and savor the people in our life that matter most.
Livvie and Ben stole my heart once again as I was given the immense gift of having another peek into their lives. We watch as they struggle to balance the chaos of life with the peace and love they invite to reign within the walls of their home. Life continues to test them, but they never fail to turn to each other and lean upon the solid rock of their love and commitment to each other. They invite the light of hope to remind them of what all they have overcome and will continue to overcome as long as remember to love, listen, and fight together. What is stronger then a love that has been tested and tried in the fires of destruction and tragedy?
My heart leapt for joy knowing I would be visiting this beautiful and extraordinary couple again. I love watching their precious love guide their decisions and make them rich beyond measure. What a great sight to behold! Nothing is as breathtaking or as stunning. Their strength never fails to amaze and astound me as their come back from everything that life throws their way. What a fabulous partnership and trust they have. It is truly something beautiful to admire and emulate.
Nicole Blanchard has swept my heart into a wonderous new adventure with this amazing small family who brings me to my knees with their powerful and uncompromising love and devotion. She is a fabulous author who truly admires the human spirit, and always appreciates the small things in life which never fail to be the most important things. So do not miss out on this wonderful addition to her series that thanks the service men and women of our country and their amazing families who sacrifice right along with them. What a fabulous tribute to their continued struggles and fierce courage they exhibit each and every day. Thank you!!!
February 6, 2020
Received ARC from Author for Honest Review.
I Give this Book a 3.5-4/5 Star Rating, Listing as 4.
HEA(?): Yes.
Romance: 4/5
Drama: 3.5-4/5
Suspense: 3.5/5
This is a Novella, I Highly Recommend You Read Warrior First.
I vaguely remember Warrior and I must say this is exactly what was needed to truly finish Ben and Livvie’s story, and this is a must read,
I will give no spoilers cause this is a fast but evenly paced read.
I Give this Book a 3.5-4/5 Star Rating, Listing as 4.
HEA(?): Yes.
Romance: 4/5
Drama: 3.5-4/5
Suspense: 3.5/5
This is a Novella, I Highly Recommend You Read Warrior First.
I vaguely remember Warrior and I must say this is exactly what was needed to truly finish Ben and Livvie’s story, and this is a must read,
I will give no spoilers cause this is a fast but evenly paced read.
June 23, 2020
I absolutely love this series especially Ben & Livvie. They are a couple you won’t forget. I love seeing what they are up too and love seeing the other characters from this series as well. I can’t wait too read more.
February 17, 2020
Ben and Livvie have been my favorite Nicole Blanchard couple since reading Warrior. Don’t get me wrong, all her couples are amazing, but there is just something about Ben. He is strong, and man enough to show his vulnerability. He loves with all his heart and isn’t afraid to show it. Livvie is one tough chick! She has been through a lot, and it has only made her a better mother, wife, friend, woman. She also is strong, but still vulnerable, although in typical woman fashion struggles with letting people see anything but her perfect.
Valor is a short glimpse into Ben and Livvie’s happily ever after. I loved that it showed that everything isn’t always hearts, flowers and excitement, but sometimes a HEA is living every day life. Sometimes you have to stop and bring back the spice, and that’s exactly what Ben and Livvie do!
It was great catching up with “old friends” in this story, as many of the First to Fight couples appeared. It was a great little reunion.
At the end we got a little preview of the next installment of the series, and I can’t wait for get more of Callum’s story.
Valor is a short glimpse into Ben and Livvie’s happily ever after. I loved that it showed that everything isn’t always hearts, flowers and excitement, but sometimes a HEA is living every day life. Sometimes you have to stop and bring back the spice, and that’s exactly what Ben and Livvie do!
It was great catching up with “old friends” in this story, as many of the First to Fight couples appeared. It was a great little reunion.
At the end we got a little preview of the next installment of the series, and I can’t wait for get more of Callum’s story.
February 1, 2020
If you love Ben and Livvie then you seriously do NOT want to miss out on this book. It's a short glimpse into their lives years later. Cole is doing amazing and being a rambunctious 6 year old. Phoebe is so adorable and has every male in her life wrapped around her little fingers (she is gonna be something!! Can't wait for her story!!). Ben is being the wonderful man we all love and just can't get enough of. Livvie, now she has something on her mind. I never can seem to get enough of this family. I was hooked from the first chapter of Warrior and I was hooked through every chapter of this book. Ben has my heart but I have made sure to leave room for this family as well. Thanks for giving me this added trip into their perfectly imperfect lives! *I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.*
February 10, 2020
4.5 Fun, Moving & Steamy Stars!
I loved this exploration of what happens after the HEA! Ben and Olivia are madly in love, but with work, kids, and life, time for their relationship can take a backseat. They try to find ways to be alone, but it's hard with two small kids and also a bit awkward at times. Olivia is harboring some fears as well that she isn't ready to give voice to. I love how Ben knows her so well and has such patience and love for her, and the kids. They are both wonderful parents, thoughtful and kind to each other and their chemistry is still as hot as ever. This is an honest, thought provoking, and sexy look at the challenges, insecurities, passion, love, and trust they bravely face together. I also loved catching up with all their friends and family that we have grown to love in this series. This was fun, tender, heartfelt and steamy romance!
I loved this exploration of what happens after the HEA! Ben and Olivia are madly in love, but with work, kids, and life, time for their relationship can take a backseat. They try to find ways to be alone, but it's hard with two small kids and also a bit awkward at times. Olivia is harboring some fears as well that she isn't ready to give voice to. I love how Ben knows her so well and has such patience and love for her, and the kids. They are both wonderful parents, thoughtful and kind to each other and their chemistry is still as hot as ever. This is an honest, thought provoking, and sexy look at the challenges, insecurities, passion, love, and trust they bravely face together. I also loved catching up with all their friends and family that we have grown to love in this series. This was fun, tender, heartfelt and steamy romance!
February 22, 2020
Okay. So I’m not normally a huge Novella reader, there’s just never enough time to develop characters in the story for me. But, leave it to this author to throw that out the door with the incredibly romantic, hot, steamy, endearing, and for those of us who are parents, very true when it comes time for fostering a relationship when you have kids. I loved Ben and Olivia’s story four years later, makes me want to go back and reread the whole series, especially when everyone makes an appearance in the novella. Honestly, wouldn’t change a thing with this book, definitely well written and swoon worthy with how much Ben loves Olivia and his kids, where are all of these guys out there! Definitely worth the read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
February 5, 2020
Olivia and Ben welcome us back into their lives. Everything appears good after all they have been through. Married with two kids but each is feeling they are missing "time" together.
Plus Olivia is dealing with fears, yet too scared to tell Ben. They shouldn't focus on that, they need to live, love and cherish their family.
Things get a little too real for them but they end up giving us a surprise that brought tears to my eyes.
Getting to spend time with Livvie and Ben, their adorable children and their friends was so much fun. A real look at the power of communication and how deeply these two love each other. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
Plus Olivia is dealing with fears, yet too scared to tell Ben. They shouldn't focus on that, they need to live, love and cherish their family.
Things get a little too real for them but they end up giving us a surprise that brought tears to my eyes.
Getting to spend time with Livvie and Ben, their adorable children and their friends was so much fun. A real look at the power of communication and how deeply these two love each other. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
February 14, 2020
We first met Ben and Olivia in the second book in the series Warrior and now we reconnect with them five years later. Cole their son that Ben found out about in Warrior is recovered from his heart surgery and is living life like any six year old boy and their daughter Phoebe is wrapping everyone around her fingers especially her father. Livvie and Ben are trying to have a perfect romance but life and family are getting in the way and they don't have as much time for one another with two young children in the house and even worse Livvie is keeping a secret Cam they carve out time for themselves and how will Ben react when he learns her secret You will have to read to see
February 19, 2020
Told in alternating POV, “Valor” shows us a few days in the life of a married couple trying to find quality time for each other. Ben and Olivia work, they have children and rarely have time for themselves. But we get a detailed look at a very special date night (fireworks), how they deal with personal issues and the unexpected. It highlights the importance of little gestures and meaningful conversations that show care and appreciation. A thoughtful story filled with the emotion and love of two people who respect and value each other. Realistic and sweet!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 25, 2020
Totally loved it and it felt almost too real (LOL). While making another fantastic, steamy, sweet and funny story, Nicole Blanchard just put into words one of the biggest problems married couples with kids have: couple time and keeping the flame alive. It was refreshing not getting the perfect couple with the perfect HEA. I loved seeing some of the same insecurities and fears reflected on this couple that real life couples have. This story definitely had other add-ons that completed it, so every element worked perfectly together for me. Love Ben and Olivia, can't wait to read more from this series!
February 10, 2020
It was nice to catch up with the characters from the series! Ben and Livvie are caught up in the day to day of being married and working and raising young kids. Livvie annoyed me a bit by being so insecure, but it's because that isn't me and it annoys me. There are so many other things to worry about in this life. Ben can't be helpful and take care of things if he doesn't realize there's a problem. You gotta talk! But the kids are cute and the grown up times are steamy. Everyone comes out happy at the end!
February 12, 2020
This is a beautiful inclusion to the 'First to Fight series.
Ben and Olivia are great characters. this snippet of their lives is welcome and revealing.
Life continues: fears are felt, love deepens and life moves on - weather we want it to our not.
Olivia is feeling very emotional. Ben is trying to be more supportive. A heartfelt gesture has severe ramifications for them both.
I loved this story and highly recommend it.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Ben and Olivia are great characters. this snippet of their lives is welcome and revealing.
Life continues: fears are felt, love deepens and life moves on - weather we want it to our not.
Olivia is feeling very emotional. Ben is trying to be more supportive. A heartfelt gesture has severe ramifications for them both.
I loved this story and highly recommend it.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 17, 2020
This is the 3rd book I've read written by Nicole Blanchard; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2020
An enjoyable book three in the First to Fight series! In this book we catch up with Ben and Olivia after four years and witness the ups and downs and struggles they encounter in life and marriage! It is well written, well-developed, emotionally deep, and consistent. Ben and Olivia are strong and very devoted to each other; the chemistry between them is amazing. Definitely recommended!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2020
Like a Visit Home
Revisiting Livvie and Ben was a welcome treat, especially since the telling of it was smoother and more relatable to me than their original story. I really did love their fall into love, but I was so distracted by my inability to comprehend the timeline that I couldn't enjoy it as much as I could have. Ben is an amazing hero, and truly a saint, because even though I understand why Livvie has issues, she is still just a LOT. This story made me smile...
Revisiting Livvie and Ben was a welcome treat, especially since the telling of it was smoother and more relatable to me than their original story. I really did love their fall into love, but I was so distracted by my inability to comprehend the timeline that I couldn't enjoy it as much as I could have. Ben is an amazing hero, and truly a saint, because even though I understand why Livvie has issues, she is still just a LOT. This story made me smile...
February 14, 2020
The third book in the First to Fight series this series just gets better with each new book. This is more of Former MARSOC operator Benjamin Hart and his wife Olivia, these two have a lot to go through as they find even ground for their marriage to work. I want to read the next book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2020
This was a wonderful quick read novella. In this story we get to revisit Ben and Olivia and see what's happening in their future. I loved reading about their lives and it was truly great catching up with these characters. A sweet, well written, heartfelt story, that I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2020
Ben and Liv have an awesome life. I fell in love with these two earlier on in the series and it still astounds me how much they love each other. This is a short story and moves very quickly. You fall in love with these characters all over again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2020
I didn't realize this was a continuation of a previous story in this series but I was still able to grasp enough history to quickly understand. Ben is great and I enjoyed read what happens after their happily ever after which I think is written very realistically. For the full connection, I think this shouldn't be read out of order. 3 1/2*
December 6, 2020
Valor.
A great series. The comrades working together to serve, protect, challenge, share as brothers who are not born of the same parents. Adventure and danger continually face them in these men sometimes In facing their past and then following them into their future many time with someone new and special In their lives.
A great series. The comrades working together to serve, protect, challenge, share as brothers who are not born of the same parents. Adventure and danger continually face them in these men sometimes In facing their past and then following them into their future many time with someone new and special In their lives.
January 6, 2026
Valor is a slice of life novella after the events of Warrior. I normally am not one for a slice of life novel but the main characters in Warrior go through so much that it was actually nice to read them just loving each other and their kids. I did like that Nicole Blanchard still squeezed in some action in the middle, even if everything turned out to be just fine.
February 2, 2020
I absolutely love this series especially Ben & Livvie. They are a couple you won’t forget. I love seeing what they are up too and love seeing the other characters from this series as well. I can’t wait too read more.
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
February 6, 2020
A sexy sweet novella to catch up with Ben n Liv and some of the others. Romance novels are usually about how a couple meets and falls in love but I love these little glimpses that authors give us into the “happily ever after”. Love, sex, and life’s craziness doesn’t end at I DO.
February 8, 2020
Awww I loved catching up Ben and Olivia, I've loved these two since the first book. They are still just as perfect for eachother ,even tho times get a bit hectic and hard their love always seems to pull them thru.
February 12, 2020
This book hooked me from the get go I just couldn’t put it down I fell in love with these characters and omg what a story just a perfect
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
February 14, 2020
This is a follow on from Warrior Ben and Olivia.
It’s great to read about a couple, years later.
Olivia is thinking that Ben doesn’t love her as much as he used to.
They have a night by themselves, no kids and that is what they needed.
It’s great to read about a couple, years later.
Olivia is thinking that Ben doesn’t love her as much as he used to.
They have a night by themselves, no kids and that is what they needed.
February 16, 2020
This is the 3rd book in this series. The characters have to learn how to keep love alive. Characters from previous books are revisited.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2022
If you like military type romances, then I’d think you would enjoy this book. It’s a quick novella between Ben and Livvie that can easily be read in an evening. There was enough action, drama and steam to keel the reader engaged. I’m certainly interested in reading more from this author.
December 7, 2025
Book 2 said Cole would only need a heart transplant if surgery 3 didn’t help. But in this book they switch from surgery to transplant.
Didn’t like the tho gs that didn’t follow and I went right into this book due to it being a box set.
Didn’t like the tho gs that didn’t follow and I went right into this book due to it being a box set.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews