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Veterans of Valhalla #13.5
Recovering Catie
Catie thought her life was over when she was kidnapped by the cartel, but then she was rescued by a group from Valhalla. When the sexy former Navy SEAL carries her out of captivity, a connection is formed between them.
With Zach’s help and support, Catie slowly begins to forgive herself and their relationship blossoms into love. But just when they thought they could start their life anew, someone from Catie's past resurfaces and threatens to tear them apart.
Will Zach be able to help Catie overcome the battle she's been fighting for so long? Find out in this gripping and heartwarming romance novel.
With Zach’s help and support, Catie slowly begins to forgive herself and their relationship blossoms into love. But just when they thought they could start their life anew, someone from Catie's past resurfaces and threatens to tear them apart.
Will Zach be able to help Catie overcome the battle she's been fighting for so long? Find out in this gripping and heartwarming romance novel.
- GenresBDSM
150 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 23, 2024
36 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Gray
53 books625 followersRJ Gray is a USA TODAY bestselling author of Explosively Hot Romance. She is also an international bestseller. Residing on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu with her husband, two young sons and their rescue pup, RJ lives an active life. When not writing, her hobbies include whipping up delicious meals, capturing life's beauty with her camera and attending her children's multiple sporting events. Hobbies she shares freely about in her FB Group Gray's Bibliophiles.
Having spent the past fifteen years married to an active duty military bomb technician, and as a veteran herself, RJ has a passion for military and veteran causes. You will find these themes in many of her books.
You can find out more about RJ Gray on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorRJGray
Feel free to contact her: AuthorRJGray@gmail.com
Follow her on social media:
Amazon: amazon.com/author/grayrj
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Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/author_rj
Blog: www.AuthorRJGray.com
Newsletter: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/vokxh4if40 (FREE BOOK!)
Having spent the past fifteen years married to an active duty military bomb technician, and as a veteran herself, RJ has a passion for military and veteran causes. You will find these themes in many of her books.
You can find out more about RJ Gray on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorRJGray
Feel free to contact her: AuthorRJGray@gmail.com
Follow her on social media:
Amazon: amazon.com/author/grayrj
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/rj-gray
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorrjgray/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/authorrjgray
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/author_rj
Blog: www.AuthorRJGray.com
Newsletter: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/vokxh4if40 (FREE BOOK!)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 27, 2024
DAMAGED WAS BEAUTIFUL
The story picks up from Luke, which is about Luke and Dani. Catie is Dani’s younger sister, who had been kidnapped and held captive by the cartel. When she is found, Zach picks her up and carries her out. He visits her daily in the hospital, and then when she goes to rehab he either emails or talks to her. The first two chapters of the story set up that scene and then in chapter three Catie is released and returns to Grand Junction to begin a new life.
“Hope is what keeps us going.”
Zach is the one person who doesn’t see Catie as broken and fragile, he views her as a strong survivor. He is the one person who has been a consistent presence since her rescue. He will also be the one to offer her refuge at his home, no strings attached.
The story is emotional, and the connection and chemistry that develop between Catie and Zach is powerful. He is firm, having her sit down and discuss rules and consequences, but he is lenient and understanding. He gives her room to heal and never makes her feel like she is a failure. I love how he takes things slow, slower than maybe she would like. Their talks about BDSM are open, honest, and eventually explored.
Zach: Look, Catie. You don’t owe me anything. And I expect nothing in return. The offer is on the table. But, if you move in with me, there will be rules and consequences.
Catie: Rules, consequences…
Zach: We’ll figure it out together. You will have a say in everything.
Catie: Okay. I’ll come stay with you. But you need to know, Zach, I’m bankrupt. Financially, emotionally, and physically. I have very little to offer right now.
Zach: I’m not asking you to pay rent. I make more than enough money to support you while you get back on your feet.
Catie: I don’t want to impose or mooch off anyone.
The story is an emotional journey of healing, not just for Catie, but for Zach too.
“Life, for the first time was good.”
The story picks up from Luke, which is about Luke and Dani. Catie is Dani’s younger sister, who had been kidnapped and held captive by the cartel. When she is found, Zach picks her up and carries her out. He visits her daily in the hospital, and then when she goes to rehab he either emails or talks to her. The first two chapters of the story set up that scene and then in chapter three Catie is released and returns to Grand Junction to begin a new life.
“Hope is what keeps us going.”
Zach is the one person who doesn’t see Catie as broken and fragile, he views her as a strong survivor. He is the one person who has been a consistent presence since her rescue. He will also be the one to offer her refuge at his home, no strings attached.
The story is emotional, and the connection and chemistry that develop between Catie and Zach is powerful. He is firm, having her sit down and discuss rules and consequences, but he is lenient and understanding. He gives her room to heal and never makes her feel like she is a failure. I love how he takes things slow, slower than maybe she would like. Their talks about BDSM are open, honest, and eventually explored.
Zach: Look, Catie. You don’t owe me anything. And I expect nothing in return. The offer is on the table. But, if you move in with me, there will be rules and consequences.
Catie: Rules, consequences…
Zach: We’ll figure it out together. You will have a say in everything.
Catie: Okay. I’ll come stay with you. But you need to know, Zach, I’m bankrupt. Financially, emotionally, and physically. I have very little to offer right now.
Zach: I’m not asking you to pay rent. I make more than enough money to support you while you get back on your feet.
Catie: I don’t want to impose or mooch off anyone.
The story is an emotional journey of healing, not just for Catie, but for Zach too.
“Life, for the first time was good.”
January 24, 2024
Recovering Catie, the latest book in the Veterans of Valhalla series, shines brightly with a five-star glow. This is my favorite book in the series bar none.
This sweet and tender romance weaves a captivating tale between Catie, a recovering drug addict, and Zach, an emotionally hurt Navy SEAL veteran. Set against the backdrop of the Holidays in Valhalla sub-series, the story comes after Luke and A Valhalla Proposal. While it stands strong as a standalone, delving into Dani and Luke's journey provides a richer context.
Zach is my new book boyfriend. He embodies the role of caregiver with a touch of tenderness that resonates throughout the book. Catie, despite her self-doubts, exudes strength as she turns the page to embark on a new chapter in her life.
Catie's journey of self-discovery and empowerment post-rescue and rehab is beautifully depicted. The author did her research on this subject. Zach is intricately woven into the narrative, providing what Catie needs with unwavering support. While the initial timeline shifts might pose a minor challenge, the overarching story triumphs, culminating in a satisfying happily-ever-after. My only complaint is that it isn't longer.
Catie's story unfolds with grace, offering a poignant narrative of recovery, healing, trust, and love. The exploration of BDSM adds a spicy and steamy layer to the emotional depth of the story. Recovering Catie stands out as a truly beautiful and heartfelt addition to the series, worth every moment of anticipation.
Catie's journey becomes a testament to the transformative power of love. The author effortlessly envelops readers in a sense of love, portraying the unique beauty that emerges from overcoming a drug addiction. The characters come alive in their own beautiful ways, making Recovering Catie a must-read in this exceptional series.
This sweet and tender romance weaves a captivating tale between Catie, a recovering drug addict, and Zach, an emotionally hurt Navy SEAL veteran. Set against the backdrop of the Holidays in Valhalla sub-series, the story comes after Luke and A Valhalla Proposal. While it stands strong as a standalone, delving into Dani and Luke's journey provides a richer context.
Zach is my new book boyfriend. He embodies the role of caregiver with a touch of tenderness that resonates throughout the book. Catie, despite her self-doubts, exudes strength as she turns the page to embark on a new chapter in her life.
Catie's journey of self-discovery and empowerment post-rescue and rehab is beautifully depicted. The author did her research on this subject. Zach is intricately woven into the narrative, providing what Catie needs with unwavering support. While the initial timeline shifts might pose a minor challenge, the overarching story triumphs, culminating in a satisfying happily-ever-after. My only complaint is that it isn't longer.
Catie's story unfolds with grace, offering a poignant narrative of recovery, healing, trust, and love. The exploration of BDSM adds a spicy and steamy layer to the emotional depth of the story. Recovering Catie stands out as a truly beautiful and heartfelt addition to the series, worth every moment of anticipation.
Catie's journey becomes a testament to the transformative power of love. The author effortlessly envelops readers in a sense of love, portraying the unique beauty that emerges from overcoming a drug addiction. The characters come alive in their own beautiful ways, making Recovering Catie a must-read in this exceptional series.
January 26, 2024
Oof! There's a whole lot of story in this little book. The emotional undertow is incredibly powerful. Catie’s book takes on some really big subjects; including love, life, second chances, and redemption. They’re threaded so skillfully into everything that you really don't realize just how deep you’ve gotten until you're in over your head. I loved seeing the patient way Zach cared for and supported Catie on her journey. And I absolutely adored watching Catie find her strength to be able to live and love freely, beating back her demons and reclaiming herself. I’m not sure what the author has in store next for the inhabitants of Valhalla, but I can’t wait until I get to come back and discover it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
January 23, 2024
I’ve waited for Catie’s story ever since she was introduced through Dani in the Veterans of Valhalla series - and I must say, this book was worth every minute of the wait.
Beautifully written, tender and heartening, Recovering Catie is the spicy, steamy and so very emotional story about the long, but affirming journey towards recovery and healing, towards trust and love. It’s about the safety and freedom found in the structure and dynamic of BDSM.
I love this book in all its heartfelt depth - a truly beautiful story.
Beautifully written, tender and heartening, Recovering Catie is the spicy, steamy and so very emotional story about the long, but affirming journey towards recovery and healing, towards trust and love. It’s about the safety and freedom found in the structure and dynamic of BDSM.
I love this book in all its heartfelt depth - a truly beautiful story.
January 28, 2024
4 1/2 stars
I loved seeing the full story of Catie and Zach, a couple we've seen glimpses of in previous stories. I loved how Catie was constantly growing and figuring herself out after her rescue and rehab. She learned to stand up for herself and take what she wanted. Zach was almost a support character in this story as most of his scenes were of him supporting Catie and giving her what she needed. The one thing I didn't like in this story was the beginning had some back and forth in time which was a bit confusing for me. The story outweighed this small complaint though and I enjoyed the HEA.
I loved seeing the full story of Catie and Zach, a couple we've seen glimpses of in previous stories. I loved how Catie was constantly growing and figuring herself out after her rescue and rehab. She learned to stand up for herself and take what she wanted. Zach was almost a support character in this story as most of his scenes were of him supporting Catie and giving her what she needed. The one thing I didn't like in this story was the beginning had some back and forth in time which was a bit confusing for me. The story outweighed this small complaint though and I enjoyed the HEA.
January 25, 2024
Wow Zach and Catie’s story really pulls on the heartstrings. As Catie works through the unthinkable bleakness of drug addiction and being kidnapped by the Cartel, Zach remains at her side continuing to offer support and positive feeling. As they work through their relationship to find solid ground you root for them the whole time! What a beautiful read!
February 11, 2024
Intensely poignant!
Catie is a young woman that has suffered enormous pain and has not always made sound decisions. After a brutal kidnapping leaves her abandoned and near death, she is rescued by Zach; she then embarks on a journey of recovery and healing. RJ Gray writes with passion and a perception that go beyond general knowledge. The author pulled me into the depths of addiction and consequences then into the determination of an addict that knows that this time she either finds sobriety or she dies. As Catie works her program she finds serenity and safety for the first time. With the support of her rescuer, her sister and the Vahalla community she lives life on life's terms, falls in love and is able to live with the promises that the recovery program is able to provide. As with the other books in the Valhalla series, Ms. Gray respectfully draws a word picture of the BDSM community and how it can be a part of someone's journey. The author's compassionate words have touched me and have given me peace in my own journey! I highly recommend reading Recovering Catie and all of RJ Gray's works!
Catie is a young woman that has suffered enormous pain and has not always made sound decisions. After a brutal kidnapping leaves her abandoned and near death, she is rescued by Zach; she then embarks on a journey of recovery and healing. RJ Gray writes with passion and a perception that go beyond general knowledge. The author pulled me into the depths of addiction and consequences then into the determination of an addict that knows that this time she either finds sobriety or she dies. As Catie works her program she finds serenity and safety for the first time. With the support of her rescuer, her sister and the Vahalla community she lives life on life's terms, falls in love and is able to live with the promises that the recovery program is able to provide. As with the other books in the Valhalla series, Ms. Gray respectfully draws a word picture of the BDSM community and how it can be a part of someone's journey. The author's compassionate words have touched me and have given me peace in my own journey! I highly recommend reading Recovering Catie and all of RJ Gray's works!
January 23, 2024
Recovering Catie is the latest addition to the Veterans of Valhalla series, a sweet and tender romance between a recovering drug addict and an emotionally hurt veteran. Catie is Dani's sister and as far as timelines go, Recovering Catie is part of the Holidays in Valhalla sub-series and takes place after Luke and before A Valhalla Proposal. It can be read as a standalone, but for a deeper understanding of the background, I'd recommend reading Dani and Luke's story first. Zach is a wonderful character, the best caregiver and you could just feel the tenderness and growing love between them. Catie, for all her self-doubts, is a strong woman, capable of turning the page and starting a new, healty chapter in her life. It was great to see the wider Valhalla family rallying around and helping where they could. The book covers quite a time span and ends with a peek at their well-deserved HEA.
I was fortunate to have received a free copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
I was fortunate to have received a free copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
January 31, 2024
Catie and Zach's story is explosive!
"You might just find strength in surrender." Ms. Gray shows us how this lifestyle can set you free and help you heal. She explains how the use of BDSM can help empower you if you choose to give up control. She helps us connect emotionally with her characters through her use of DPOV. The emotion she pours into these stories is amazing. You feel as if this story is unfolding right in front of you. When Zach rescued Catie from a shed in the forest, he found her close to death. Cold, malnutritioned and high on the drugs that the cartel pumped into her then left her for dead. Would Catie be able to heal and get clean and learn to trust again? Zach was determined to be there every step of the way. He was so patient and supportive making sure she knew she held all the control. That gave her the power to fight her demons and he was right there to catch her if she stumbled. Such a sweet and captivating story! I enjoyed this story so much. It is a solid 5 star read!
"You might just find strength in surrender." Ms. Gray shows us how this lifestyle can set you free and help you heal. She explains how the use of BDSM can help empower you if you choose to give up control. She helps us connect emotionally with her characters through her use of DPOV. The emotion she pours into these stories is amazing. You feel as if this story is unfolding right in front of you. When Zach rescued Catie from a shed in the forest, he found her close to death. Cold, malnutritioned and high on the drugs that the cartel pumped into her then left her for dead. Would Catie be able to heal and get clean and learn to trust again? Zach was determined to be there every step of the way. He was so patient and supportive making sure she knew she held all the control. That gave her the power to fight her demons and he was right there to catch her if she stumbled. Such a sweet and captivating story! I enjoyed this story so much. It is a solid 5 star read!
January 27, 2024
I have loved every book I've read by R.J. Gray. Her words are powerful and speak of a truth only those who have lived through it can really know. Recovering Catie is one of the most powerful books I've read in a long while. It is gutwrenching. Catie is a recovering addict who has survived the unspeakable. Her addiction journey is not unlike others, the difference being she has come out on the other side. She has Zach, the man who rescued her, to stand beside her as the bulwark to her own power. Like I said, powerful stuff, and beautifully written. The liberal sprinkling of BDSM in their lives makes for a good read too. I'm glad the author explored Catie's character. I was curious about her, and her storyline satisfied that curiosity. I am leaving my honest review voluntarily, having received an advance reader copy of this book.
January 28, 2024
While not strictly part of Veterans of Valhalla, but instead of Holidays in Valhalla, all of the characters in this book will be familiar to readers of the original series. We were introduced to Catie when the men of Valhalla rescued her from heartbreaking circumstances, the result of a gang kidnapping.
This book traces Catie’s recovery and relationship with Zach. I really don’t want to say too much because this book is one of the best from this author and deserves to be read.
The story is longer than most in the Valhalla universe, which I love anyway, but absolutely gives this story the time it needs to be told. This is an extremely emotional story and it’s obvious that the author has put her own sweat and tears into this. Recovering Catie is a romance between a recovering Addict and a veteran, but it is also a wonderful story of hope and determination.
This book traces Catie’s recovery and relationship with Zach. I really don’t want to say too much because this book is one of the best from this author and deserves to be read.
The story is longer than most in the Valhalla universe, which I love anyway, but absolutely gives this story the time it needs to be told. This is an extremely emotional story and it’s obvious that the author has put her own sweat and tears into this. Recovering Catie is a romance between a recovering Addict and a veteran, but it is also a wonderful story of hope and determination.
January 30, 2024
This story by RJ Gray broke my heart and then healed it! Catie had been kidnapped and when Zack and the guys rescued her, she was addicted to drugs. You know it's going to be an emotional story when you tear up almost right off the bat. It's tender, it's sweet and it's hot. Zack has feelings for her and he is determined to help her, no matter what. The connection between them was wonderful and very well written. Ms. Gray has a writing style that is very easy to read and understand and it shows throughout the story! There is some danger and action but this was mainly about Catie and her recovery. Loved every single word of this one!!!
January 21, 2024
I love this series and all the different chapters. This chapter is Zach and Catie. It's a horrific tale of what she went through, but it's also calming at the same time. The story is effortless in its telling as me as the reader, I felt enveloped in love during this story. What exactly is damaged, no one knows, but each person becomes beautiful in their own way. You always need someone in your corner, and that someone is Zach. Love these characters.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
January 31, 2024
Claire Ellis was kidnapped by the Cartel.
Zach is a veteran of Valhalla and a former Navy Seal snippet.
Caine and Zach met , when Zach rescued her from The Cartel. Zach became a staple in Caite’s recovery , healing and rehabilitation.
Caite and Zach had some ups and downs to work out in their relationship.
Can they have a Happily Ever After?
You will have to read the book.
This book has intrigue, caring and love and romance.
Great JobR J Gray !!!
Zach is a veteran of Valhalla and a former Navy Seal snippet.
Caine and Zach met , when Zach rescued her from The Cartel. Zach became a staple in Caite’s recovery , healing and rehabilitation.
Caite and Zach had some ups and downs to work out in their relationship.
Can they have a Happily Ever After?
You will have to read the book.
This book has intrigue, caring and love and romance.
Great JobR J Gray !!!
February 12, 2024
This is a beautiful story of how love and trust can heal. Catie was lost to a life of fear and darkness until Zach came along and helped her find her way out. He taught her not just to trust him but to trust herself. Addiction is something that affects all of us in one way or another and RJ brought light to this tough topic in a realistic and positive way. I love all of the Valhalla books and this one was a fantastic addition to the series.
July 27, 2024
Recovering Catie
RJ Gray has crafted an intense storyline that doesn't center on the rescue of her female character, but rather delves into Catie recovering herself and the person she is inside. She would not be able to come back from the horrific trauma she endured if it hadn't been for Zach. Helping Catie in turn let's Zach heal from the hurt from his past. This was truly an amazing book that was very thought provoking.
RJ Gray has crafted an intense storyline that doesn't center on the rescue of her female character, but rather delves into Catie recovering herself and the person she is inside. She would not be able to come back from the horrific trauma she endured if it hadn't been for Zach. Helping Catie in turn let's Zach heal from the hurt from his past. This was truly an amazing book that was very thought provoking.
February 7, 2024
A story of trust
Catie and Zach. After Zach saved Catie, that was just the beginning of their story. This book traces the rest of their story. I liked their interactions but it felt a bit dragged on in parts. Moved too slowly. But it has many wonderful parts as well. About feelings, dealing with letting go of negativity.
Catie and Zach. After Zach saved Catie, that was just the beginning of their story. This book traces the rest of their story. I liked their interactions but it felt a bit dragged on in parts. Moved too slowly. But it has many wonderful parts as well. About feelings, dealing with letting go of negativity.
June 24, 2024
beautiful journey
I was so touched by this story. No child should have to suffer that way, and no woman deserves the horrid things she experienced.
Her journey back to wholeness was lovely. I don’t have direct knowledge of that stuff, but based on what people I know have gone through, it was a good story.
I was so touched by this story. No child should have to suffer that way, and no woman deserves the horrid things she experienced.
Her journey back to wholeness was lovely. I don’t have direct knowledge of that stuff, but based on what people I know have gone through, it was a good story.
August 1, 2024
Reviews
Catie was kidnapped by the cartel . she gets rescue by the group of Vathalia. She gets carried by the sexy former Navy Seal Zack. He want let anyone else carry her out because a connection to her. While in the hospital he come by every day. When she goes to drug rehab he still stay in communication. She moves in with him and they both have feelings for each other
Catie was kidnapped by the cartel . she gets rescue by the group of Vathalia. She gets carried by the sexy former Navy Seal Zack. He want let anyone else carry her out because a connection to her. While in the hospital he come by every day. When she goes to drug rehab he still stay in communication. She moves in with him and they both have feelings for each other
February 5, 2024
Rescued!
Recovering Catie: WOW! It was intense story! Great addition to the series! Zach needed Catie as much as she need him. He was the one who recovered her and they had a bond from the beginning. It was a wonderful story!
Recovering Catie: WOW! It was intense story! Great addition to the series! Zach needed Catie as much as she need him. He was the one who recovered her and they had a bond from the beginning. It was a wonderful story!
June 4, 2024
Zach & Catie
RJ Gray, this Recovering Catie: A Military Romance (Holidays in Valhalla Book 3) took me through avenues of life that I can only empathize with the depths of despair and the longing for something more.
RJ Gray, this Recovering Catie: A Military Romance (Holidays in Valhalla Book 3) took me through avenues of life that I can only empathize with the depths of despair and the longing for something more.
January 26, 2024
Made me laugh and cry. A touching well written book that is different from the rest.
February 26, 2024
3.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews