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Love in the Fleet #1
Forgive and Forget
There’s something about a man in uniform… but there’s something about a woman in one, too. When Hallie McCabe meets Philip Johnston at a picnic, she is drawn to his integrity. He is a gentleman—and an officer. Aware of the code against fraternization between officers and enlisted, Hallie hides her Navy status, hopeful she and her secret will stay hidden on their enormous aircraft carrier, at least until she can figure out a way for them to sail off into the sunset together.
Caught in an emotional firestorm, Hallie faces a future without the man she loves, a career-shattering secret from the past, and the burden of being the one person who can prevent a terrorist attack on the ship she has sworn to protect with her life. Prepare to set sail for the Persian Gulf with a crew of 4,999 sailors and officers—and one terrorist in search of his own kind of Paradise.
FORGIVE & FORGET is the first book in the Love in the Fleet series by Heather Ashby. Watch for the next one, FORGET ME NOT, December 3, 2013.
Caught in an emotional firestorm, Hallie faces a future without the man she loves, a career-shattering secret from the past, and the burden of being the one person who can prevent a terrorist attack on the ship she has sworn to protect with her life. Prepare to set sail for the Persian Gulf with a crew of 4,999 sailors and officers—and one terrorist in search of his own kind of Paradise.
FORGIVE & FORGET is the first book in the Love in the Fleet series by Heather Ashby. Watch for the next one, FORGET ME NOT, December 3, 2013.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 23, 2013
8 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
About the author
Heather Ashby
12 books30 followersAward-winning author, Heather Ashby is a Navy veteran; retired teacher; mother and grandmother; advocate for children, animals, and the military; and lifelong Empath. Her first work of non-fiction, The Caring Code, is a system she developed to help fellow Empaths focus on the people and issues that are most important in their lives. She wrote her romantic suspense series, “Love in the Fleet” with the help of Major Christopher Bergeron, (USMC-ret), who based his writing on his six combat tours of duty.
Heather lives in San Antonio, Texas with her retired Navy husband, where they volunteer and nurture their children and grandchildren—among others. Heather loves to hear from readers. Contact her at heatherashbyauthor@gmail.com or visit her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/HeatherAshby4
Heather lives in San Antonio, Texas with her retired Navy husband, where they volunteer and nurture their children and grandchildren—among others. Heather loves to hear from readers. Contact her at heatherashbyauthor@gmail.com or visit her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/HeatherAshby4
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 22, 2013
I loved this book! Reminded me of something from a Nora Roberts trilogy: a sexy romance where I cheered for the main characters the whole way, but with a fantastic set of secondary characters who I hope to get to know better in future books. Hallie McCabe is a strong character, the perfect match for Philip Johnson. I loved the constant push-pull-push-pull of their dynamic. This book is both steamy and smart. It has family secrets, plotting terrorists, and military men in (and out of!) uniform. And forget candlelight dinners...after reading this you'll want your next romantic outing to be on a boat!
December 29, 2015
If you love steamy romance with high stakes and plenty of humor added in, then Heather Ashby's first in the Love in the Fleet series is for you. I truly enjoyed reading "Forgive and Forget" and highly recommend it.
Hallie McCabe is a smart, independent woman who happens to fall for the right guy at the wrong time. Philip "Bill Gates" Johnston is honest, plays by the rules, and happens to be Hallie's superior in the Navy. A big relationship no-no.
You'll wonder how Hallie manages to keep her identity secret and root for her as she deals with father issues. Plus, who doesn't love a nerdy, but sexy, leading man?
Hallie McCabe is a smart, independent woman who happens to fall for the right guy at the wrong time. Philip "Bill Gates" Johnston is honest, plays by the rules, and happens to be Hallie's superior in the Navy. A big relationship no-no.
You'll wonder how Hallie manages to keep her identity secret and root for her as she deals with father issues. Plus, who doesn't love a nerdy, but sexy, leading man?
August 3, 2013
Heather Ashby's FORGIVE & FORGET is a romantic high seas adventure filled with steamy sex, heart-pounding suspense, realism, and insider knowledge only a former sailor in the US Navy could have written.
Come aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Blanchard, batten down the hatches, and brace yourself for a thrilling cruise to the Persian Gulf. Discover what it's like to live, love, and battle for your life in a floating city with 4,499 horny men, 500 women, and one very determined terrorist.
I felt empathy for Hallie, fell in love with Philip, worried about the sailors, laughed, cried, felt way too hot at times, and missed an entire night of sleep because I couldn't put down this masterfully written novel of romantic suspense. Bravo, Heather! Full steam ahead!
Come aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Blanchard, batten down the hatches, and brace yourself for a thrilling cruise to the Persian Gulf. Discover what it's like to live, love, and battle for your life in a floating city with 4,499 horny men, 500 women, and one very determined terrorist.
I felt empathy for Hallie, fell in love with Philip, worried about the sailors, laughed, cried, felt way too hot at times, and missed an entire night of sleep because I couldn't put down this masterfully written novel of romantic suspense. Bravo, Heather! Full steam ahead!
January 21, 2019
Believably strong female protagonist.
May 4, 2017
Very good book. I wasn't too sure at the beginning as I didn't like the secret Hallie was keeping, but I quickly got engrossed. Hallie and Phillip met at a picnic and were immediately drawn to each other. Hallie is an enlisted sailor on the same ship where Phillip is an officer. She knows the rules against fraternization, but she keeps quiet.
I loved the development of their relationship. Phillip is an engineer, a bit geeky, but sweet and honest and a gentleman. Hallie is smart, independent, and works in the public affairs office of the ship. She is studying journalism at the university. The connection between them is strong. I loved how they were able to talk about real things, not just the usual small talk. Phillip is convinced right away that she is The One for him. Hallie is equally hooked on him, but her secret is haunting her. She knows that if she tells him that she's enlisted he'll break things off right away. I loved seeing them get to know each other.
Hallie has some issues that also affect her relationship. She does everything she can to avoid meeting any of Phillip's friends. Besides not wanting to see anyone that could give away her secret, she also has a thing about pilots, some of whom are his friends. I loved seeing her share her reasons for her dislike with Phillip, and his understanding and support of her. There's an interesting twist involving those reasons later in the book, and Phillip's protective nature really comes out.
When it's time for the ship to leave, Hallie knows she has to come clean. I really started to feel for her because she was so in love with him. I ached for Phillip too, when he found out, as it made him feel betrayed by her. I loved seeing Hallie give him the time he needed to deal with the news. One thing I loved about this book was that they were realistic about what the rules meant, and they worked hard to follow them. I loved the scenes with Trixie being the unwitting go between, who keeps Phillip and Hallie informed on each other's lives. I liked the solution they came up with to be able to continue their relationship within the spirit of the rules.
Throughout the book there is also an underlying sense of danger. There is a disgruntled sailor who has turned terrorist and has plans that will endanger the entire ship. His thoughts and feelings are well documented and the intensity increases as the book progresses. The final confrontation with him is scary in how easily it could really happen. I loved Hallie's ability to think in a crisis and the way she held it together to save the day.
But the excitement isn't over, as Hallie has a personal crisis to deal with. She gets major help from a surprising source. There's also a fun scene on a helicopter dealing with a hot mic and Phillip's best friend, Sky. I also loved the meeting between Hallie and Phillip's parents.
I enjoyed the look at life on an aircraft carrier, from the point of view of ordinary military members. I love special forces heroes, but now and then it's great to see other things. It was fun hearing about Phillip's issues with the ship's plumbing. There was also a realistic look at what female sailors have to deal with.
I loved the development of their relationship. Phillip is an engineer, a bit geeky, but sweet and honest and a gentleman. Hallie is smart, independent, and works in the public affairs office of the ship. She is studying journalism at the university. The connection between them is strong. I loved how they were able to talk about real things, not just the usual small talk. Phillip is convinced right away that she is The One for him. Hallie is equally hooked on him, but her secret is haunting her. She knows that if she tells him that she's enlisted he'll break things off right away. I loved seeing them get to know each other.
Hallie has some issues that also affect her relationship. She does everything she can to avoid meeting any of Phillip's friends. Besides not wanting to see anyone that could give away her secret, she also has a thing about pilots, some of whom are his friends. I loved seeing her share her reasons for her dislike with Phillip, and his understanding and support of her. There's an interesting twist involving those reasons later in the book, and Phillip's protective nature really comes out.
When it's time for the ship to leave, Hallie knows she has to come clean. I really started to feel for her because she was so in love with him. I ached for Phillip too, when he found out, as it made him feel betrayed by her. I loved seeing Hallie give him the time he needed to deal with the news. One thing I loved about this book was that they were realistic about what the rules meant, and they worked hard to follow them. I loved the scenes with Trixie being the unwitting go between, who keeps Phillip and Hallie informed on each other's lives. I liked the solution they came up with to be able to continue their relationship within the spirit of the rules.
Throughout the book there is also an underlying sense of danger. There is a disgruntled sailor who has turned terrorist and has plans that will endanger the entire ship. His thoughts and feelings are well documented and the intensity increases as the book progresses. The final confrontation with him is scary in how easily it could really happen. I loved Hallie's ability to think in a crisis and the way she held it together to save the day.
But the excitement isn't over, as Hallie has a personal crisis to deal with. She gets major help from a surprising source. There's also a fun scene on a helicopter dealing with a hot mic and Phillip's best friend, Sky. I also loved the meeting between Hallie and Phillip's parents.
I enjoyed the look at life on an aircraft carrier, from the point of view of ordinary military members. I love special forces heroes, but now and then it's great to see other things. It was fun hearing about Phillip's issues with the ship's plumbing. There was also a realistic look at what female sailors have to deal with.
September 3, 2013
What so completely absorbed me once I started reading this book was the feel of utter authenticity. The rules, the regs, the smell of jet fuel, the roar of the engines, the close quarters, conflicts and camaraderie of military life.
I can appreciate the heroine's situation. She's fallen for a man she knows she shouldn't be with, and she's bending the rules to the point of catastrophic failure--and risking his trust in the process--because she knows as soon as she tells him the truth, it's over. But she will tell him the truth, even if it costs her everything. It's just that her timing on that big reveal goes completely awry...
I imagine some readers will have issues with her honesty, and admittedly, I did at times, too, thinking, "OMG, girl, just tell him!" At the same time I could completely relate to her sentiments and easily walk in her shoes. This is the man of her dreams and she doesn't want to see her relationship go up in smoke. Who would? Hallie is likable, relatable, and an endearing combination of timid heart and tough-as-steel mind.
The hero, Philip, is a man of integrity, a true gentleman and someone I admired as a "good guy." He's a a working hero, not some commanding officer with lots of shiny brass and top-dog swagger, but an honest-to-goodness Navy man doing a real job in the bowels of his massive ship. Even so, this shoulder-to-the-grindstone, squeaky clean, BCG-wearing sailor has an alpha side that often surprised and delighted me. I LUV me an unpredictable hero.
The story also does a remarkable job of getting inside the head of the villain, and showing some of the culture and traditions he has more-or-less adopted (less, actually). Though I can't respect him or his warped values, I can understand why he turned. He's tragic, twisted and deeply disturbed, but he's no cartoon villain.
This story carries some big surprises and killer twists, but one happy surprise for me came in the form of a secondary character that at first annoyed and then absolutely dazzled me. You know things will be okay when this guy takes charge. And best of all? The next book is about him!
I can appreciate the heroine's situation. She's fallen for a man she knows she shouldn't be with, and she's bending the rules to the point of catastrophic failure--and risking his trust in the process--because she knows as soon as she tells him the truth, it's over. But she will tell him the truth, even if it costs her everything. It's just that her timing on that big reveal goes completely awry...
I imagine some readers will have issues with her honesty, and admittedly, I did at times, too, thinking, "OMG, girl, just tell him!" At the same time I could completely relate to her sentiments and easily walk in her shoes. This is the man of her dreams and she doesn't want to see her relationship go up in smoke. Who would? Hallie is likable, relatable, and an endearing combination of timid heart and tough-as-steel mind.
The hero, Philip, is a man of integrity, a true gentleman and someone I admired as a "good guy." He's a a working hero, not some commanding officer with lots of shiny brass and top-dog swagger, but an honest-to-goodness Navy man doing a real job in the bowels of his massive ship. Even so, this shoulder-to-the-grindstone, squeaky clean, BCG-wearing sailor has an alpha side that often surprised and delighted me. I LUV me an unpredictable hero.
The story also does a remarkable job of getting inside the head of the villain, and showing some of the culture and traditions he has more-or-less adopted (less, actually). Though I can't respect him or his warped values, I can understand why he turned. He's tragic, twisted and deeply disturbed, but he's no cartoon villain.
This story carries some big surprises and killer twists, but one happy surprise for me came in the form of a secondary character that at first annoyed and then absolutely dazzled me. You know things will be okay when this guy takes charge. And best of all? The next book is about him!
May 29, 2015
ANCHORS AWAY ---- ROUGH SEAS AHEAD
I was totally spellbound by this steamy - suspenseful naval romance by heather ashby --she obviously researched what it is really like for women to live and serve on a naval carrier and the perils of fraternization- and then weaves us a story where they are thrown together in dangerous circumstances -- so here we go hallie is elisted navy - phillip is an officer- they meet and sparks ignite-- hallie does not tell phil she is a sailor and what starts as a fun sailing date over the months becomes true love--- when they are both berthed on the same ship and circumstances force hallie to reveal to phil her secret- he does not take it well- this is a relationship that can end his career and he has a hard time dealing with her abitlity to have omitted telling him the truth -- eventually they decide that although they are in love- their relationship will be in limbo until hallie naval enlistment expires-- easier said then done- on the few occasions they met alone they can't keep their hands off each other-- --- now what keeps the book rolling along was the introduction of gina and sky who know about their forbidden love --and the terrorist who is on the aircraft carrier with them-- i loved the fact that our hero was a beta - with a little alpha thrown in -- and that hallie was very feisty lady -- all the characters were well developed with their own personalities - quirks and flaws- in short i found this to be a sexy, romantic heart pounding read. so if you like romance with military action i believe you will like this-- since i could almost smell the gunpowder- hear the explosions feel the sea under my feet gently rolling - i decided if i was that drawn into a tale i should buy the rest of the books which i did --- one more thing i love ----------(this author donates half her royalties to benefit Wounded Warriors and their families through Fisher House Foundation.)
I was totally spellbound by this steamy - suspenseful naval romance by heather ashby --she obviously researched what it is really like for women to live and serve on a naval carrier and the perils of fraternization- and then weaves us a story where they are thrown together in dangerous circumstances -- so here we go hallie is elisted navy - phillip is an officer- they meet and sparks ignite-- hallie does not tell phil she is a sailor and what starts as a fun sailing date over the months becomes true love--- when they are both berthed on the same ship and circumstances force hallie to reveal to phil her secret- he does not take it well- this is a relationship that can end his career and he has a hard time dealing with her abitlity to have omitted telling him the truth -- eventually they decide that although they are in love- their relationship will be in limbo until hallie naval enlistment expires-- easier said then done- on the few occasions they met alone they can't keep their hands off each other-- --- now what keeps the book rolling along was the introduction of gina and sky who know about their forbidden love --and the terrorist who is on the aircraft carrier with them-- i loved the fact that our hero was a beta - with a little alpha thrown in -- and that hallie was very feisty lady -- all the characters were well developed with their own personalities - quirks and flaws- in short i found this to be a sexy, romantic heart pounding read. so if you like romance with military action i believe you will like this-- since i could almost smell the gunpowder- hear the explosions feel the sea under my feet gently rolling - i decided if i was that drawn into a tale i should buy the rest of the books which i did --- one more thing i love ----------(this author donates half her royalties to benefit Wounded Warriors and their families through Fisher House Foundation.)
March 8, 2014
I'd give this a 3.8 out of 5 star rating. It started off strong, and built to a decent climax, but then it sort of fell apart at the end.
Hallie meets a nice guy, who also happens to be super sexy, that she really connects with. She likes him and wants it to be more than just a fling, until she finds out he serves on the same naval ship she does. A big no-no. A great set-up for awesome romantic conflict. Even better, she doesn't tell him, conflict intensifies. Throw in a terrorist on board who wants to take out the ship in epic fashion and what can go wrong?
Sadly, too much.
Hallie starts out beautifully flawed but by the end, she’s so over-the top holier-than-thou perfect that she becomes completely unlikeable. I literally couldn't stand her by the time I hit the other side of the climax.
I feel this would have been a MUCH better book if it had ended about two chapters before it did and the previous two chapters had been compressed into one.
Plot:
The plot was good. A strong three-act structure that builds to a great climax, although I felt it took too long to get there, but the drawn out aftermath ruined it for me.
Characters:
With the exception of Hallie’s transformation into "St. Hallie the Perfect" at the end, the characters are strong and believable. I particularly liked Skylark and Davis. I thought all of the supporting characters had depth and I liked that there was even growth in some of the tertiary characters, particularly the ship’s commander.
Bottom Line:
I’m on the fence on whether or not I'd recommend it. Usually, I recommend anything close to a four, which this is, but because of some of the things I mentioned above, I can't give it a solid recommendation.
Hallie meets a nice guy, who also happens to be super sexy, that she really connects with. She likes him and wants it to be more than just a fling, until she finds out he serves on the same naval ship she does. A big no-no. A great set-up for awesome romantic conflict. Even better, she doesn't tell him, conflict intensifies. Throw in a terrorist on board who wants to take out the ship in epic fashion and what can go wrong?
Sadly, too much.
Hallie starts out beautifully flawed but by the end, she’s so over-the top holier-than-thou perfect that she becomes completely unlikeable. I literally couldn't stand her by the time I hit the other side of the climax.
I feel this would have been a MUCH better book if it had ended about two chapters before it did and the previous two chapters had been compressed into one.
Plot:
The plot was good. A strong three-act structure that builds to a great climax, although I felt it took too long to get there, but the drawn out aftermath ruined it for me.
Characters:
With the exception of Hallie’s transformation into "St. Hallie the Perfect" at the end, the characters are strong and believable. I particularly liked Skylark and Davis. I thought all of the supporting characters had depth and I liked that there was even growth in some of the tertiary characters, particularly the ship’s commander.
Bottom Line:
I’m on the fence on whether or not I'd recommend it. Usually, I recommend anything close to a four, which this is, but because of some of the things I mentioned above, I can't give it a solid recommendation.
August 1, 2013
Y'all, I have three small children. Sleep is a precious commodity in this house. I say that so you'll understand just how big a deal it is when I tell you that I started Ashby's debut at bedtime last night, thinking "I'll read a chapter before I fall asleep." At 3:41 I looked at the clock and went, "Wow, I should go to sleep now." At 5 a.m. I put the book down, having finished it, and fell asleep thinking about Philip.
This is seriously one of the top five romance novels I've ever read, and I've read too many to count. Ashby writes about the Navy with a veteran's insider knowledge, but more than that, she made her characters real. I cared about Hallie and Philip, and I couldn't put the book down until I knew how things turned out for them.
LOVED it. A dashing hero, a likable heroine, and a set of dangerous circumstances with tension that ratcheted up expertly throughout the story. This romance has its fair share of steam, too, and it is equally well done. The love scenes add to the story and are REALLY well-written. Not a word out of place.
Brava, Ms. Ashby! I can't wait for the next Love In the Fleet novel. I'll be sure to start it in the morning, though.
I'm off to get more coffee. You should be clicking to buy this book. Really, I'll go ahead and say "you're welcome."
This is seriously one of the top five romance novels I've ever read, and I've read too many to count. Ashby writes about the Navy with a veteran's insider knowledge, but more than that, she made her characters real. I cared about Hallie and Philip, and I couldn't put the book down until I knew how things turned out for them.
LOVED it. A dashing hero, a likable heroine, and a set of dangerous circumstances with tension that ratcheted up expertly throughout the story. This romance has its fair share of steam, too, and it is equally well done. The love scenes add to the story and are REALLY well-written. Not a word out of place.
Brava, Ms. Ashby! I can't wait for the next Love In the Fleet novel. I'll be sure to start it in the morning, though.
I'm off to get more coffee. You should be clicking to buy this book. Really, I'll go ahead and say "you're welcome."
March 16, 2014
LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT
I loved this novel from the very first lines, through the turmoil of the beautifully drawn forbidden relationship between Hallie from below decks and Philip (Mr Integrity) travelling first class on the cruise, to the nail biting climax.
Only this vessel wasn't the titanic heading for an iceberg but one of the US Navy's most powerful aircraft carriers in danger of being destroyed from within. This is a cleverly plotted and extremely well written story which is strengthened immeasurably by the inside knowledge of naval regulations from Heather Ashby's own service experience.
I need a novel to grip me and inform me in equal measures but this one added the extra elements of entrancement and a powerful feel good factor.
I did read most of this at 38,000 feet whilst flying from the UK to the Canary Islands off the coast of North Africa so the dizzy heights and cabin pressure might have contributed to what is by far the most engaging novel I have encountered for some time.
I've just downloaded the sequel, Forget Me Not, and though I will have to read this one at sea level I'm hoping that it will have the same almost mesmerising effect.
I loved this novel from the very first lines, through the turmoil of the beautifully drawn forbidden relationship between Hallie from below decks and Philip (Mr Integrity) travelling first class on the cruise, to the nail biting climax.
Only this vessel wasn't the titanic heading for an iceberg but one of the US Navy's most powerful aircraft carriers in danger of being destroyed from within. This is a cleverly plotted and extremely well written story which is strengthened immeasurably by the inside knowledge of naval regulations from Heather Ashby's own service experience.
I need a novel to grip me and inform me in equal measures but this one added the extra elements of entrancement and a powerful feel good factor.
I did read most of this at 38,000 feet whilst flying from the UK to the Canary Islands off the coast of North Africa so the dizzy heights and cabin pressure might have contributed to what is by far the most engaging novel I have encountered for some time.
I've just downloaded the sequel, Forget Me Not, and though I will have to read this one at sea level I'm hoping that it will have the same almost mesmerising effect.
September 14, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Heather Ashby's ability to get in her characters' heads and narrate using their different voices and points of view. I'm not a typical romance reader so I really liked that Ashby is able to bridge the gap between military terms and her civilian readers--I was able to live vicariously through the characters and learn a lot about life in the Navy on board a warship! My favourite character is the antagonist, who is portrayed so vividly and empathetically that, scarily, he could be someone we know. The heat level of the book is about 3.5 out of 5, but Hallie and Phillip's sexy moments are in context, and enjoyable for both them and the reader.
September 14, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Heather Ashby's ability to get in her characters' heads and narrate using their different voices and points of view. I'm not a typical romance reader so I really liked that Ashby is able to bridge the gap between military terms and her civilian readers--I was able to live vicariously through the characters and learn a lot about life in the Navy on board a warship! My favourite character is the antagonist, who is portrayed so vividly and empathetically that, scarily, he could be someone we know. The heat level of the book is about 3.5 out of 5, but Hallie and Phillip's sexy moments are in context, and enjoyable for both them and the reader.
August 29, 2013
The waves are choppy and its rough sailing for Hallie and Philip. I absolutely loved this book. I think Hallie is an admirable and relatable heroin, and Philip is the Navy man of every girl's dream. Heather does a remarkable job weaving their story together into one helluva romance novel; she's a natural. This isn't a book you want to start at night, otherwise you won't get any sleep. I can't wait for the sequel. Philip's best friend Sky was hilarious throughout FORGIVE AND FORGET and I'm looking forward to reading his story in FORGET ME NOT. December can't get here soon enough!
July 29, 2013
4.5 fabulous stars! This story has wonderful characters, a timely suspense plot, and takes you aboard an aircraft carrier! I loved the Navy theme and setting. I can't talk about the best moments without giving away favorite parts of the book. I'll just say, there was a lot to like in this book. A lot. Kudos to Heather Ashby. I can't wait to read the next one!
September 11, 2014
Debut author Heather Ashby's Forgive and Forget came as a pleasant surprise for me. I don't usually read military romances because of the macho-alpha male-Navy Seal-hero who doesn't particularly crank my engine, but this story is a must if you like snappy, laugh-out-loud dialogue, a story that takes unexpected twists and turns, and you don't mind shedding a few tears at the end. Hallie McCabe, an enlisted petty officer, and Lieutenant Philip Johnston, a graduate of the Naval Academy, fall into a forbidden love affair that could end officer Johnston's career. When they head for the Persian Gulf aboard the same ship, as if their impossible situation isn't enough, little do they know there is a terrorist lurking below deck just waiting to cause unfathomable damage to their nuclear-powered vessel.
Ashby manages to nail not only the male and female dialogues--a tricky business--once she has you aboard ship, you'll feel as though you're a part of those 5,000 aboard. According to her bio, Ashby herself is a Navy veteran, and it shows in her writing. Not only does she know her stuff, she tells it with panache. Even describing a helicopter becomes poetic: "Like a well-orchestrated dance of dragonflies, one by one, five gray Seahawk helicopters passed left to right just aft of the stern, then turned and flew up the port side..." Deftly, Ms. Ashby maneuvers the reader through life aboard ship, gives us an inside look at brusque commanders, at hotshot pilots and the machines they operate, yet all the while keeps us turning pages as we wonder how the devil an enlisted petty officer and a lieutenant can possibly resolve their forbidden love and find a future together. As in most romance novels, a happy ever after ending is required, but no way are you going to guess the twists and turns this story takes, and how the author manages to pull everything together at the end. Oh, and that terrorist? He'll have you guessing, too. Brava, Ms. Ashby, can't wait for the sequel!
Ashby manages to nail not only the male and female dialogues--a tricky business--once she has you aboard ship, you'll feel as though you're a part of those 5,000 aboard. According to her bio, Ashby herself is a Navy veteran, and it shows in her writing. Not only does she know her stuff, she tells it with panache. Even describing a helicopter becomes poetic: "Like a well-orchestrated dance of dragonflies, one by one, five gray Seahawk helicopters passed left to right just aft of the stern, then turned and flew up the port side..." Deftly, Ms. Ashby maneuvers the reader through life aboard ship, gives us an inside look at brusque commanders, at hotshot pilots and the machines they operate, yet all the while keeps us turning pages as we wonder how the devil an enlisted petty officer and a lieutenant can possibly resolve their forbidden love and find a future together. As in most romance novels, a happy ever after ending is required, but no way are you going to guess the twists and turns this story takes, and how the author manages to pull everything together at the end. Oh, and that terrorist? He'll have you guessing, too. Brava, Ms. Ashby, can't wait for the sequel!
August 8, 2013
*Full post at Throughout the Pages*
Conflict: ... more than one here - Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire / Big Secret / Reputation Ruination
Usually, I loathe the Lie-by-Omission in my romances. Grinding my teeth throughout the pages. But this one held my interest because it involved a lot of policy and regulation - trying to find a loophole in the rules, while also feeling the angst of "I really love you, but we can't be together" - and that ties into the Reputation Ruination. The heroine sailor Hallie and hero "officer" Philip fall in love. Hallie painfully breaks off their hot summer romance/passion (while he's still clueless that she is enlisted) and now she has to avoid him even more... because they're doing a tour of duty on the same aircraft carrier. The possible reputation ruination that could result from the romance makes Philip "understand" Hallie's dilemma just a little bit, and it's (putting this very lightly) easier to forgive her lie-by-omission.
Overall: As a regular civilian, I thought this would be a good read for any romance fans wanting an inside look of the Navy life. (Fair warning: if you really dislike reading about terrorism in any way, you might want to pass on this one.) I AM looking forward to Ms. Ashby's continuation of this series.
Conflict: ... more than one here - Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire / Big Secret / Reputation Ruination
Usually, I loathe the Lie-by-Omission in my romances. Grinding my teeth throughout the pages. But this one held my interest because it involved a lot of policy and regulation - trying to find a loophole in the rules, while also feeling the angst of "I really love you, but we can't be together" - and that ties into the Reputation Ruination. The heroine sailor Hallie and hero "officer" Philip fall in love. Hallie painfully breaks off their hot summer romance/passion (while he's still clueless that she is enlisted) and now she has to avoid him even more... because they're doing a tour of duty on the same aircraft carrier. The possible reputation ruination that could result from the romance makes Philip "understand" Hallie's dilemma just a little bit, and it's (putting this very lightly) easier to forgive her lie-by-omission.
Overall: As a regular civilian, I thought this would be a good read for any romance fans wanting an inside look of the Navy life. (Fair warning: if you really dislike reading about terrorism in any way, you might want to pass on this one.) I AM looking forward to Ms. Ashby's continuation of this series.
April 16, 2014
I so enjoyed Heather Ashby’s debut novel, Forgive and Forget. Philip was an awesome hero -- so sweet and full of integrity, but so heroic and sexy! Just loved him. And Hallie was so much fun to watch.
I also really enjoyed watching the antagonist in this book. He was so complicated – not a twisting-mustache, cartoon villain, or someone we’d expect at all. Instead he had layers of psychological complication, which made him scarier, and made the book that much more interesting.
I especially, though, LOVED all the Navy details that I know nothing about -- I just knew I was in good hands with Ashby, knew she was telling it like it is, and had so much fun learning about Navy life from a woman’s point of view. I love when I feel like I learned something from a romance novel -- either about a place, a lifestyle, a language, a culture, whatever. And this one definitely left me closing the book with the feeling that just got to live in another world for a fun, few nights.
Brava, Heather Ashby! I look forward to the next book, Forget Me Not!
I also really enjoyed watching the antagonist in this book. He was so complicated – not a twisting-mustache, cartoon villain, or someone we’d expect at all. Instead he had layers of psychological complication, which made him scarier, and made the book that much more interesting.
I especially, though, LOVED all the Navy details that I know nothing about -- I just knew I was in good hands with Ashby, knew she was telling it like it is, and had so much fun learning about Navy life from a woman’s point of view. I love when I feel like I learned something from a romance novel -- either about a place, a lifestyle, a language, a culture, whatever. And this one definitely left me closing the book with the feeling that just got to live in another world for a fun, few nights.
Brava, Heather Ashby! I look forward to the next book, Forget Me Not!
August 15, 2014
After so many SEAL, special-ops, parajumper etc military-type characters, Ashby gives us - gasp! - normal military folk. Folk we might actually meet. Folks like 99% of the military (in this case Navy). Hallie is a reporter/communications type and Phillip is an engineer tasked with keeping (of all things) the ship’s septic system running smoothly.
Then the question is, can you keep a story going with such ‘normal’ military characters? Well, here’s the proof. Some good sub-themes and a couple twists… a villain… and suspense that lasted the entire book. Oh, and authenticity of the Navy ship and processes.
And the ending… Without making this into a spoiler, I just have to say that I love a male character who doesn’t ‘save’ the damsel in distress per se, but still manages to be sexy and be a HERO. (Or maybe it’s the heroine that saves the hero? Bravo!)
Now, that’s not to say I didn’t feel (now and then) like it was a little too syrupy-sweet, the sex a little too perfect, and the hero a little too good to be true… but it’s a romance, after all - and a darn good one.
Then the question is, can you keep a story going with such ‘normal’ military characters? Well, here’s the proof. Some good sub-themes and a couple twists… a villain… and suspense that lasted the entire book. Oh, and authenticity of the Navy ship and processes.
And the ending… Without making this into a spoiler, I just have to say that I love a male character who doesn’t ‘save’ the damsel in distress per se, but still manages to be sexy and be a HERO. (Or maybe it’s the heroine that saves the hero? Bravo!)
Now, that’s not to say I didn’t feel (now and then) like it was a little too syrupy-sweet, the sex a little too perfect, and the hero a little too good to be true… but it’s a romance, after all - and a darn good one.
March 11, 2014
The characters were well written and believable. I love reading about the military. It's a job that takes a certain kinda person to be able to do. I like learning more about how things work and the various aspects of military life.
Hallie and Philip are instantly drawn to each other and Philip is unaware that Hallie is also in the Navy. There are rules against this, and Hallie knows it won't work while both are on ship.. The romance is not overdone and only increases the value of the story.
I'm always a fan of a independent woman. I like Hallie because she knows what she can handle but still is willing to take comfort from others when needed. My favorite scene is when Hallie finally meets Sky. The way Hallie was so happy to see Philip's best friend. Good friendship in the making.
Easy to read style, didn't have to stop and back track. This is a upbeat read. The beginning of a series that I look forward to continuing.
Hallie and Philip are instantly drawn to each other and Philip is unaware that Hallie is also in the Navy. There are rules against this, and Hallie knows it won't work while both are on ship.. The romance is not overdone and only increases the value of the story.
I'm always a fan of a independent woman. I like Hallie because she knows what she can handle but still is willing to take comfort from others when needed. My favorite scene is when Hallie finally meets Sky. The way Hallie was so happy to see Philip's best friend. Good friendship in the making.
Easy to read style, didn't have to stop and back track. This is a upbeat read. The beginning of a series that I look forward to continuing.
August 6, 2015
Good read. I had a little trouble getting into it at the beginning... not sure why. Maybe because of the heroine's secret keeping. But once the aircraft carrier left port, the story really took off for me. The hero is a sweet, geeky marine engineer, which endeared him to me right away, because I have a marine engineer son. (basically the same as a mechanical engineer with some electrical and power train stuff added on) The heroine is working on a journalism degree in college. They are both in the US Navy-- he's an officer, she isn't. So their relationship is strictly prohibited. Especially since they are assigned to the same ship. The heroine knows this, the hero doesn't, and when she reads up on the rules, she learns that the enlisted personnel is rarely punished severely, and if the officer doesn't know the other's rank, the punishment is less. So she keeps quiet. There are other complications, including a possible terrorist attack on the ship. It's a good story. I liked it a lot.
June 28, 2015
Wonderful romance with a stream of suspense running through it. When Hallie first meets Phillip at a condo party she is impressed and drawn to him, then she discovers that not only is he an officer he is station on the same aircraft carrier. Before she has a chance to tell him that she is in the navy and is enlisted, he invites her sailing. That is one enticement she just can't miss, so she decides to tell him after their sail. Not to surprisingly, they fall for one an other an the reveal becomes harder and harder. She knows that he is a major rule follower and she doesn't want to give him up until she has to. She also discovers that as long as he does not know she is enlisted, he is not breaking the rules and will not be punished.
As their relationship is developing, we meet a disgruntled man whose beloved wife was unfaithful and who want to punish as many people as he can.
As their relationship is developing, we meet a disgruntled man whose beloved wife was unfaithful and who want to punish as many people as he can.
March 10, 2014
One of my absolute favorite genre's is military romance, add in some suspense, and stir in a knowledgeable prior service author and BAM you have a masterpiece! The connection between Hallie and Philp was undeniable and had me cheering for the happily ever after they deserved! Being affiliated with the military, I personally enjoy military romance novels that correctly use military terms but also don't over do it with the military jargon, they require a special blend and this book is perfect! Mrs. Ashby is a wonderful writer and I am thoroughly looking forward to the next books in this series, I can't wait to see Sky fall! Definitely recommend!
December 23, 2014
This is a fairly new genre for me to read (no, not the romance, the military!). Having served in the Army, I’m not always interested in reading about the military. But this story intrigued me and did not disappoint. Well, except for the ending. I would have liked some kind of epilogue to wrap up things a little better. Plus, with an e-book, I thought I had around 15 pages left to read, and since it was already after midnight, saved them for the next day only to discover I had 2 pages left. Ugh! I guess that kind of tells you how the ending was wrapping up, huh? I still thought there was plenty left to read. Other than that, I did enjoy the story a lot.
October 27, 2013
Heather Ashby’s Forgive and Forget was certainly not forgettable! It was a refreshing change to read about things I’d forgotten while growing up as a Navy brat. And I even learned a new acronym…BCG’s. (Birth Control Glasses, because they’re that ugly!) But I doubt dear old dad would’ve shared that meaning with me, anyway ;0)
The hero and heroine are as well drawn as the unusual antagonist in this interesting story of love, life and terror on the high seas. Can’t wait for the next book in this series!
The hero and heroine are as well drawn as the unusual antagonist in this interesting story of love, life and terror on the high seas. Can’t wait for the next book in this series!
June 28, 2015
Finding a way
Phillip and Hallie met on the beach and just clicked. He knew he met the One only he has no idea she is enlisted. Fraternization is a big no in the military. Phillip is a rules man. That is one of reasons Hallie loves him. It's time to ship out and the truth is out. It is fun watching them try to avoid each other. The hot mic part was funny. Hallie you rock. Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
Phillip and Hallie met on the beach and just clicked. He knew he met the One only he has no idea she is enlisted. Fraternization is a big no in the military. Phillip is a rules man. That is one of reasons Hallie loves him. It's time to ship out and the truth is out. It is fun watching them try to avoid each other. The hot mic part was funny. Hallie you rock. Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
July 28, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed Heather Ashby's Forgive and Forget. This was a thrilling novel with a perfect mixture of humor, romance, and suspense aboard a Naval aircraft carrier. Although I am a "civilian", this military romance adventure had me turning the pages quickly and excited to read the next book in the Love in the Fleet series. Kudos to Ms. Ashby.
August 12, 2014
An exciting read. She makes you pull for both main characters. I like it that the male lead isn't a SEAL, someone that is in one the many support roles that most of us never hear of (or really think of).
October 30, 2014
This book was free so I can't be too critical. I was going to give it 2 stars, but it did get better at the end. My biggest fault with it is repetitive dialogue. This was a short book and could have been much shorter.
May 4, 2015
Haze grey and underway for six months love affairs happen!! Great writing! Great story! Not all experiences are like this but man this was hit the nail on the head! Love the thrilling bad guy part too! I an eager for more of these stories!!
October 24, 2014
Review to follow
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