Soldier Mine

Sons of War #2

by Lizzy Ford

A wounded war hero afraid to risk his heart...
A waitress with a troubled past.

Petr’s life changed overnight when an ambush not only killed his twin, but left him wounded beyond repair as well. A year and a half later, he has built a new life but still struggles with the fear he didn’t deserve to be saved and purposely won’t risk having his heart broken again.

Until he meets Claudia, the sister of a troubled boy Petr meets during a recruitment trip to a local school. Claudia has her own demon in the form of an abusive ex-boyfriend who won’t stop stalking her. She’s weary of starting over in a new place every other month and working to make ends meet to support her younger brother, who she fears is going to take matters into his own hands soon by confronting the man chasing them.

Can a man who views himself as broken, and a woman unable to trust, help each other heal?

Standalone novel in the Sons of War military romance series.

Genres: Military Fiction, Romance, Contemporary, New Adult, Contemporary Romance, Military Romance, Disability

210 pages, Paperback

First published January 6, 2015

About the author

I breathe stories. I dream them. If it were possible, I'd eat them, too. (I'm pretty sure they'd taste like cotton candy.) I can't escape them - they're everywhere! Which is why I write! I was born to bring the crazy worlds and people in my mind to life, and I love sharing them with as many people as I can.

I'm also the bestselling, award winning, internationally acclaimed author of over sixty titles and counting. I write speculative fiction in multiple subgenres of romance and fantasy, contemporary fiction, books for both teens and adults, and just about anything else I feel like writing. If I can imagine it, I can write it!

I live in the desert of southern Arizona with a pack of spoiled dogs and Tubbs, the Godfather cat who rules them all.


Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LizzyFordBooks
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/LizzyFord2010
Email: LizzyFord2010@gmail.com
Radish: LizzyFord
Wattpad: LizzyFord

Lizzy’s books include:

Lost Vegas – young adult post-apocalyptic
Aveline
Tiana
Arthur
Black Wolf

Spell Realm Series (coming summer 2017) – young adult fantasy
Water Spell (2017)
Dragon Spell (2018)
Moon Spell (2018)
Sword Spell (2019)

History Interrupted – time travel romance
West
East
North (2017)
South (2018)

Omega Beginnings Series
Alessandra
Mismatch
Phoibe
Lantos
Theodocia
Niko
Cleon
Herakles

Omega Series
Omega
Theta
Alpha (2017)

Theta Beginnings Miniseries (novelettes)
Silent Queen
Mercenary
Shadow Titan
People’s Champion

Non-Series – 2014 - 2017
Black Moon Draw (about a reader sucked into her book)
White Tree Sound (2017)
Highlander Enchanted
The Door
The Fall of Esme (2017)
Sons of War – contemporary military romance
Semper Mine
Soldier Mine
SEAL Mine (2017)

Super Villainess
It’s Not Easy Being Evil
It’s Not Easy Being Good

Starwalkers Serials (with Julia Crane) – new adult science fiction serial
Severed
Trapped
Exiled
Revealed
Escaped
Ascended
Starwalkers – complete (#1-6)

Heart of Fire – sexy dragon shifter
Charred Heart
Charred Tears
Charred Hope

Incubatti – Buffy meets 50 Shades
Zoey Rogue
Zoey Avenger

Rhyn Trilogy – new adult paranormal with demons
Katie’s Hellion
Katie’s Hope
Rhyn’s Redemption

Rhyn Eternal – Death finds love
Gabriel’s Hope
Deidre’s Death
Darkyn’s Mate
The Underworld
Twisted Fate
Twisted Karma (2017)

War of Gods – paranormal with gods, guardians and exceptional humans
Damian’s Oracle
Damian’s Assassin
Damian’s Immortal
The Grey God

Damian Eternal
Xander’s Chance
The Black God

Hidden Evil – paranormal with angels and four horsemen
Hear No
See No (TBD)
Speak No (TBD)

Unnamed Series
Unnatural (TBD)
Unmade (TBD)

Omega
Omega
Theta
Alpha (2017)

Anshan Saga – new adult science fiction romance
Kiera’s Moon
Kiera’s Sun

Santa’s Ninja Elves (short stories)
Natasha & Hunter

Non-series titles – 2011 - 2013
Star Kissed
A Demon’s Desire
The Warlord’s Secret
Maddy’s Oasis
Rebel Heart

Witchlings – young adult paranormal
Dark Summer
Autumn Storm
Winter Fire
Spring Rain

Broken Beauty Novellas – new adult dramatic fiction
Broken Beauty
Broken World

Voodoo Nights - young adult paranormal
Cursed

As SE Reign, erotica writer
101 Nights Box Set (Serials 1-7)

Reviews

[Sleepless Readmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.99 (ROUNDING TO 5) THIS SOLDIER BE MINE STARS

Petr & Claudia ♥



This novel was NOT LONG ENOUGH

I just wanted more Petr...
The only reason this was rounded off to 5 stars is because of that FINE specimen. Talk about DETERMINED, sexy, and dare I say confident (WELL HE CAN BE BUT I CAN HELP WITH THAT). The fact that he NEVER gives up is incredibly sweet. He is a hero and so incredibly down to earth which is why Claudia is the perfect match. Claudia is running from her monstrous ex and if I had a someone Petr protecting me; i'd be set.

I love when Petr brings Baba (his dad) around. He is a perfect test, if any girl can pass his tests = KEEPER. That man is hilarious, incredibly blunt, and an amazing matchmaker.

HE NEEDS HIS OWN BOOK!! I'm hoping Lizzy Ford chooses to write another soon? I'd devour that one in moments ..

Soldier MineLizzy Ford

- Sleepless, Readmore.

[rj · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5 Stars

Pros:

- I liked how Petr never gave up on Claudia even when she kept rejecting him. He asked her out everyday for like two months until she said yes. I can't imagine many men being that dedicated.

- I liked Baba, Petr's father. He was amusing and I loved that they called him "Baba."

Cons:

- The whole Brianna thing turned me off in the beginning. She's Petr's ex that he couldn't seem to move on from. They've been on and off for years and they're not really dating but also kinda are although they haven't been intimate in months. It was complicated and I needed him to end everything with her a lot sooner than he actually did. I had no idea why he was so nice to her. I remember this chick was the evil, bitchy one from book one and she cheated on Petr with his fucking brother! He should've ended things a looong ass time ago. But I'm glad once he finally ended things with her she was a nonissue.

- I didn't feel any connection between Petr and Claudia. I felt nothing for them and maybe that's why I ended up mostly skimming the book.

---

The first book was a DNF and this book came pretty close to one as well. I'm thinking that this series is just not for me.

[ItaPixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this emotional,sweet story.
I loved the characters especially Petr,his sweetness,altruism and patience made him an amazing Hero.

[Victoria · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 RATING- I'm surprised this book didn't rate higher for me. I love the whole "woman on the run" trope and adore wounded warrior hero's and this book featured both. One major issue I had which irritated me, especially in the second half of the book, was the characters continually calling the villain in the story "The Monster". I don't know why I hated that so much but it just seemed silly that an adult woman would use that terminology - I found it repeatedly distracting. That may be nick picking but it drove me a little crazy. Having said that, I did enjoy it and although I picked this title up for free I'd have no problem paying to read other books by the author, they just might not be at the top of my TBR list.

[Marilyn Ortega · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an advanced copy for an unbias opinion.

This is now one of my most favorite Military stories of Lizzy Ford's Book's.
I love the depth of the main character's Petr, Claudia, and Todd.

If you have read Semper Mine, then that will fill you in on Petr's story, although he is strong on the outside and confident, he is still stuggling with many in-securities, fate introduces him to Todd a boy in much need of a male figure and male emotional support, though Todd he meet's the ever so Lovely, Head Strong and Fiery and over protective sister Claudia, who also has major issues and is avoiding getting to close to anyone. This story will make you laugh and even sad, and it deffenitley will have you turning those pages, wanting to know what happens next.

I was happy that the story took place during the holidays and that Sawyer and Katya were able to make an apperence, which gave it that absoulte family touch.

I guaranty that anyone who reads this story although it is a standalone would want to hear more on Petr's Military buddies.

Awesomness!!!!! Nuff Said!! Great Job Lizzy Ford!

[Jeanine Walsh palinkas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Petr!!!! He's just too good to be true *sigh*

Claudia & Todd have such an amazing relationship. The sacrifices she's had to make, the love for her family, her indecision.... It seems too much for one lost and confused soul to bear. Todd's lost youth and strength are so heartwarming and a true testament to his love and adoration towards his sister. Their roller coaster lifestyle has them bouncing from here to there, it's no wonder they both doubt a happily ever after can exist in real life.

I'd love to see more of these characters and hope Baba gets the grandchildren of his dreams!

[Christina Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

**This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review**

This is going to be super short and super sweet, because I really don't have much to say... I'm still reeling over how much I enjoyed this book!

I absolutely LOVED this book! I mean LOVED. There wasn't a single moment in SOLDIER MINE that I wasn't on board with what Lizzy Ford was doing. And that is such a rare occurrence for me.

This is my first Lizzy Ford book, but it will NOT be my last. I am a love of military romances because soldiers hold a special place in my heart and I loved that not only did Ford give me a very respectable, loyal, fantastic military man, but she give him a disability that showed his heart in a different way.

It was glorious.

We are introduced to Claudia, a young waitress on the run with her little brother. She is stubborn, beautiful and scared out of her mind. Her brother, Todd, who is running into a bit of trouble at school and in life, meets Petr (our military man) who was doing a school presentation of being in the military and the aftermath. From there, these three come together in the best of ways.

I really enjoyed the relationships between Todd and Petr, Claudia and Todd, and Claudia and Petr. I had a blast with Petr's father, too! It was just so well written, with the fantastic dialogue between characters, the progression of character growth -- Claudia really grew a lot throughout this book -- and with the plot itself.

I didn't expect much when it came to the plot, but I was truly surprised with how good it was. Especially with the climax in the final third of the novel. The story was so interesting and I honestly felt for Claudia and her plight. But I also saw the issues that Todd had to deal with. Lizzy painted a really tough situation for both of them. Petr's presence in both of their lives was crucial to, not only the progression of the plot, but to the development of the characters too. It's what made them SO lovable and enjoyable.

I highly recommend this book and most likely anything else that Lizzy Ford writes. She has a new fan in me. I am 100% on board the Ford train. I have no intention of getting off!

[Lillie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice little quick read.

At first, I didn't understand why this was in the NA genre but after reading it I realized why:

The plot was something that would have been emotional and gripping for a more experienced writer, ended up being kind of cliched and silly for this writer. There were times where I thought "well this is gonna happen cause it does in literally every NA book" and it happens. Or something unrealistic and ridiculous will happen and no one in the book bats an eye and continues on as if nothing happened. Serious moments were only series for just that: A moment. The author didn't take the time to delve too much into the psychological part of it and focused more on the romance and the Todd kid. Which wasn't bad... it just didn't really work. For such serious themes in the book, it came off much more light hearted then the author probably intended.

The writing was mediocre with missing words and strange sentence structures here and there but it wasn't enough to distract me too much from the story. The author had this sort of amateurish style to her writing where she'd give a bunch of information in one go (ie she'd give full bio on characters when they're introduced and every time they reappear more information is given as if we're supposed to remember or the layout of a house or apartment down to who slept where upon first entering) and not only was it overwhelming at times, it was unnecessary. Maybe in future works the author will have learned to how to probably space out information so the reader has a chance warm up to things before dropping it in our lap. But then this.

What I'm trying to say is I understand, after reading this book, why it was put in the NA genre (among others). Despite having the Hero in his 30s (im guessing) and the heroine in her mid 20s, they didn't come off like that and the story was executed in an amateurish way.

That being said. I enjoyed the book to a point. Getting past the typos, amateurish writing and immature execution of the plot, i saw the glimmer of potential. Maybe in a few years the author could be really good but for this book it was just MEH.

[Jennifer Hines · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received this book free from Barclay Publicity in exchange for an honest review*

I really enjoyed Petr’s role in Semper Mine, but I absolutely loved him in Solder Mine. He’s got a heart of gold and although he doubts himself more than ever he still knows to trust his gut…even if it does tell him to ask the same question every day hoping for a different response. Thankfully his persistence will eventually pay off. And all that self-doubt he has about being less of a man because of his leg will disappear with the love of the right woman.

Because of one bad decision Claudia’s life changed in a way she’d never have wanted nor expected. Now she spends her time protecting her brother and never getting attached to anyone or anything because she never knows when she may just have to run again. Petr changes all of that. He makes her want to get attached. He makes her want to stay.

“You’re beautiful the way you are, Claudia. A little damaged, a whole lot scared, but beautiful.” 

Soldier Mine is a heartwarming story about overcoming pasts and self-doubts. It will show you how persistence pays off when it’s something you truly want and it will open your heart to the idea of how love conquers all.

This is book two of the Sons of War series and can be read as a standalone, but I’d suggest reading Semper Mine first because without it you miss a little of the backstory, but mainly because you’ll love it too.

My Favorite Laughable Moment: I absolutely love Baba and all his meddling.

“I am trying to marry him off,” Petr’s father continues calmly. “If you want him, you can have him. In exchange, I want three grandchildren.” 

[Zeljka · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

Let’s start with... that cover. Ahh-mazing.

The story was intense and unpredictable (enough). Petr, who also appeared in book one of Sons of War series, is a perfect, perfect book boyfriend. He’s big, strong, handsome, smart, loyal, protective and, on top of all of it – sweet. Sweet with his family, especially with his sister, sweet with kids, and with everyone else. He’s easygoing, quick on smile, but he’s also stubborn when he happens to want something. And now, he wants Claudia.

Claudia has been on her own for far too long. She’s taking care of her little brother alone, two of them travelling throughout the country, finding their safe place – running from a terrifying past, a nightmare that never seems to stop. She is afraid... and can’t let go of her fear.

When Petr and Claudia collide, there’s no saying what will happen. They restrain themselves, say no when all they want is to say yes, they stay back because of their insecurities when all they want is to lower their walls down and let the other in.

He is too stubborn to let her go.

She is too stubborn to let him in.

Only... someone has to give up
.
“It’s not the fall I’m afraid of. It’s the landing.“
"Easy. I’ll catch you.“

And Petr might be just a little too charming to resist.

#don’tgiveup
#beautifulnomatterwhat
#yougivemehope

[~`*Ella Lee*`~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this romance.

The two mains were very mature and aware. They both knew where they were in life, what they wanted and didn't give up - even if one of them, the h didn't know how to get it due to a very major road block.
I loved all the characters - Baba especially.
Petr was an amazing, heartwarming H. There wasn't any reason for him to be jealous or possessive, so there wasn't any of that - although was Alpha through and through.
Claudia was in a tragic situation. I loved that she cared so much for her brother. I also loved that once she let the H in, she didn't go back on her decision. Those are always refreshing. Both were committed.
I didn't get the OW or Ex of Petr. Why she was such an awful person, whom everyone was aware, and allowed to maintain a position with any member of that family or set of friends was beyond my understanding. Especially with how close they all apparently were. You'd think that b*tch would have been history after what we learned in book 1.
I don't get it - but hey - she wasn't a road block for the H, so really she doesn't matter.
i do recommend this - not necessarily in order, but don'y not read the first - it's actually hotter than this one.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Petr (yes I spelled his name correctly) is really a patient kind hearted man and must have been taught those who wait get rewarded big, "no rush. I've been waiting for you to talk to me for two weeks." He smiles warmly. "I'm not about to go anywhere now." Having one leg will hurt a guy's ego, or just keep him cautious, "all right." My hands are clammy as I unbutton my jeans. "You may see more than my leg," I say with a grin, unable to control the erection straining my jeans." I liked this book it was emotional and two characters needed to overcome....well I should say three characters there is Todd, but mainly Petr and Claudia they both had emotional boundaries and trust issues that needed to be worked out and learning to trust each other.

[Sakura · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this story, but unfortunately it just didn’t work for me. The writing and plot was weak and unexperienced. The sentence structure was off and amateur. The author told the reader everything, instead of showing. By that I mean that the characters’ motives and background didn’t progress naturally through dialogue or action. We were told everything in bulk as we met them, and it became tiresome and unnecessary. Petr’s ex was another aspect that seemed quite unnecessary. It didn’t make sense why she was still involved in the family, especially with that personality of hers. She didn’t provide tension for the heroine and hero either so she was pointless in the end.

Claudia was headstrong and mature for her age, but can’t allow herself to get close to anyone because of her past. I felt bad for her and her situation, but the vagueness and broadness of her history kept me from fully relating to her. Petr was a sweet, alpha hero who presents himself like a strong man, but battles a lot of insecurities. Claudia and Petr were great characters individually, but as a couple, very unbelievable. I don’t mind insta-love if it’s done well, and in the case of this book, it was not. They barely interacted with each other and suddenly we’re supposed to believe that they were in love so soon. Her brother, Todd, spent more time with Petr than she did. This book was in dire need of relationship development here.
I liked the general concept of the story, but the end wrapped up too quickly and left me unsatisfied. This is a standalone story and it easily read as one, but it does seem like it would help know the backstory a bit better.

*I was provided this audiobook from the author/narrator via Audiobook Boom at no charge, for my unbiased review.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Petr is one that will make you admire and love this soldier. Though this can be read as a stand alone novel, we do first meet Petr in book one of the series. We find him recovering from an explosion that took off his leg from the hip and his sister Katya is taking care of him. Now working as a recruiter and helping those veterans who also have had limbs removed, Petr is trying to get used to his new life. When he meets Claudia, he finds a connection that he cannot deny. Petr takes Claudia's younger brother Todd under his wing and does his best to slowly infiltrate himself into her life without being too pushy. But Claudia harbors a secret that she is not willing to share and can threaten the lives of those around her. Will she finally find the strength to move on and start a new life with Petr? Petr's dad, Anton plays an integral part in this story, with his strength and love. He is able to help give Claudia some confidence in herself with the little things he does. Petr has an incredible outlook on life and is a real inspiration to others around him, especially other veterans and Todd. It is a wonderful story.

Katie Mills narrates this story well. Her voice is pleasant and enjoyable, and it gives the story the emotion and feelings to draw you into Petr and Claudia's story.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Petr and Claudia's story. I loved Todd in it as well. His dad, Anton is a hoot!!! Sawyer and Kataya were an added bonus!

Not only did Petr lose his leg in battle, but he also lost his twin brother, Mikael. He is hanging on to a toxic relationship with his ex that is extremely unhealthy. Then one day while speaking at a high school, he comes across a kid who seems to have some deep rooted issues. He meets Todd's sister Claudia at the diner she works at. He knows something is not right, but he wants to help.

Claudia and her younger brother Todd have been on the run for quite some time. They are make this small town into a home, but they have to be vigilant. Then her brother gets attached to a local war hero. Things start to change and she is scared

There were several grammatical errors in the story that should have been picked up.

[Wonder Tre Reads -Tre Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook Review: 4.5
Petr’s story pulled me in instantly, we’ve got a taste of the background with him and his twin that died in war but fully hearing his story consumes you. I felt this story has more passion and suspense blended together and I never wanted to hit pause. There’s a mystery “monster” for quite sometime with Claudia and her brother, when you find out what happened your jaw will drop. Petr is a persistent man and I found his personality magnetic. A standalone series that you can read in any order and not feel like you’re missing out on anything when it comes to the characters.

[Lynne M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute, though highly predictable, story. I liked both characters, but it really started to drag a bit in the middle. I kept reading because I wanted to find out exactly what Claudia had been running from. From the few scenes she was in, I liked Petr's sister Katya a lot.

[Tina V · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great, quick read!

[Sarah Porcelli · Rating 3 out of 5]

When you want to read a fairly mindless romance, this series is good. More fluff than smut, and deals with the traumas of war in a fairly realistic way.

[Carrie (Rotten Banana) · Rating 3 out of 5]

First reviewed at Red Hot Books http://redhotbooks.com/2015/01/review...

I love military romance so whenever a review request comes across for one, I almost always jump on it. I’m always sad that it’s not a super popular sub-genre because it tends to ring all my bells – tortured hero/heroine, discipline & honor taught from military, uniforms and suspense. This book certainly hit all those notes. This is the second book in the Sons of War series. I did not read the first one but did not feel lost.

Petr Khavalov is starting to come back to life two years after the war took his twin brother’s life and one of Petr’s legs. He has adapted to his new life (and prosthetic leg) fairly well by giving school talks to kids and remaining in active duty by recruiting. One day, while giving a talk at the local high school, a boy named Todd asks questions that pique Petr’s curiosity about the young man’s home life. Petr doesn’t pay it much attention until he runs into Todd at the local diner. Petr wants to help the troubled boy find some stability and offers to introduce him to a martial arts class; however, getting Todd’s sister to agree to it is another matter.

Claudia knows that her brother needs help. She desperately wants him to have a normal life with friends and activities but she can’t risk them being found again by “The Monster.” Even though Petr seems like a kind man that is heavily involved in their small community, Claudia can’t bring herself to trust the handsome stranger despite the pull she feels towards them. If Petr has learned anything out of his recent tragedies, it’s how to wait. Petr steadily wears Claudia down until she begins to accept Petr’s help and involvement in their lives.


This is a very slow burn of a romance. In fact, I thought it was too slow as Claudia didn’t accept Petr until nearly 60% into the book. It is understandable that it would take a bit for them to get together given their emotional insecurities – Petr with his leg and Claudia with her past relationship – but there wasn’t enough tension for me. It was just Petr waiting, day after day, for Claudia to say yes and Claudia just not being able to let go.

I thought they were a sweet couple even if it was only brief that they were together. Petr gave both Claudia and Todd stability and, in return, they gave him some sense of family back. I really enjoyed Petr’s father, Baba. He was a crack up.

Overall, this was a sweet romance with an enjoyable storyline. I just wish the pacing was a bit stronger.

Rating: C+

*ARC provided by Barclay Publicity

[Kelly]

This was a sweet, tender, and romantic story of second chances for both Petr and Claudia.

Petr is a wounded warrior. He lost his leg in a blast that damaged other members of his unit and killed his twin brother. His family is very wealthy but they give back to their community. They also are very close and loving. Petr has an on and off girlfriend who can’t handle his now bionic leg. It makes it hard for Petr’s self esteem that anyone could really accept him for the way he is now. He fears rejection.

Claudia is running, always running. She and her younger brother Todd are running from her ex (The Monster) who is corrupt and an abuser. She waits for the day that her and her brother won’t have to run anymore. Now she sees Todd is suffering and needs normal structure. She also likes it where she is and wishes they could stay.

This is where Petr steps in. He finds himself attracted to Claudia and keeps returning to the diner she works at trying to get her attention and a date. He senses something is wrong with her and Todd. He was in Todd’s class talking about the military. Todd asks him how to kill someone. It raises red flags to Petr. He wants to help and take Todd to karate and more. Claudia finally gives in when Petr tells her he needs sports or something, because she wants more than anything for Todd to have a normal life as well.

Claudia keeps distance between herself and Petr. She can’t feel. She can’t have a normal life, she wants one and she wants it here. She has left her mom to protect her. Not being on the run all the time, it’s impossible. Petr doesn’t give up and he keeps coming to her diner every day for pecan pie and coffee. She starts giving him warm to cold coffee in hopes of deterring his advances. It doesn’t.

As Claudia’s heart starts to open to Petr and she sees Todd with a girlfriend, her walls start crumbling. Petr’s dad is even in on putting them together. I love his family. His dad wants grandchildren and tells Claudia so. She adores Petr’s family too.

Anyway, the story is so sweet and loving. It really centers on family and overcoming one’s demons and finding where you belong.

The story is sweet, easy to read, it flows smoothly, it catches your heart and squeezes it tight! The relationship is a gradual one and just perfect!

As much as I loved it, when they have sex, slang words are used and I felt like it cheapened it. I skipped over it because it didn’t feel like it belonged there. If the slang words weren’t used it would be 5 stars for me.

[Just · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet sweet sweet Petr , Im so glad to finally read his story and get his HEA. Its hard for me to like a secondary character from the first book to have his own story . But since Semper of Mine , I'm rooting for Petr to find his own happiness after all the struggles he went through losing his twin brother from war and left physically scarred. His character was one of the most high spirited I've read. He didn't let his disability to trap him and change him for the worst. He used his disability and experienced from war to inspire people. He stayed as the good kind hearted person he was and look at life positively even if the tragedy of war still hunted him.

When he met Claudia I was cheering mentally .. Petr was starting to feel insecure and afraid not finding a woman who would truly love him and can overlook his disability. I love that he waited for Claudia and everyday as he promised , he asked her out and everyday she said No and everyday he would come back.

Claudia was a strong feisty heroine . She and Owen were running from someone. She fiercely protected his brother even to the point of sacrificing her own self. I love that she did not give in to Petr no matter how much she liked him because her priority was her brother and their safety and that she knew when they run away again, she leave everyone behind and for that she doesn't to hurt Petr.

When Petr and Claudia got together .. awwwwww swwoooooon to the max. but then conflict arise and Petr protected Claudia and Owen to the best of his ability and skills. He love them both strongly and there's nothing he wouldn't do to support them and welcome them to his family.

Its so nice to catch up with Sawyer and Katya even just a short glimpse these two cracks me up. Also Petr, Katya and Sawyer relationship with their Babu was kind of sweet and it made me smile everytime.

Love this series and one of my fave reads so far in 2015.

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from Barclay Publicity in return for a fair and honest review.

Soldier Mine is the second book in the Sons of War standalone series. These books CAN be read as standalones but I would recommend that you read book one, Semper Mine, simply to get a more in-depth feel of these characters because, trust me, they are brilliant!

We are introduced to Petr in book one as he is the surviving twin. His brother, Mikael, gave his life to save Petr's which means that Petr is suffering from survivor's guilt but working hard to repay Mikael. So if you have read book one, you have an idea about him.

Claudia and Todd are the unknowns in the story and are excellent characters. The shyness of Todd coupled with his fervent desire to protect his sister from who we don't yet know make him a wonderful character to read about. Now, don't get me wrong, he's a fourteen-year-old teenager so he is grumpy, full of attitude and takes it out on those closest to him, ie. Claudia. She is his sister that has morphed into his mother as well over the past four years so she sometimes gets confused over which role she is supposed to be. It isn't long for the back story of theirs to come out.

The relationship slowly builds between Petr and Claudia, and in a completely heartwarming way. These two broken characters are definitely made for each other - it's just themselves that have to realise that.

The tension in the story also slowly builds and the climax isn't really a surprise (I don't think it's meant to be, either) but it is exceedingly well written as you feel the anguish and tension in every word.

If you like Military, Contemporary Romance stories then I can definitely recommend this one, and book 1 too!

[Ash Rowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Petr was a recruiter who got wounded in a war and also lost his twin brother. He comes back and does a lot of volunteer work and helps out his hometown community. Him being rich hasn’t stopped him from being a great hardworking, down to earth person. He meets Todd doing a high school visit. Todd seems troubled and he tries to help him out. We meet Todds sister Claudia she’s untrusting and running from a dark past while trying to protect Todd and give him some kind of decent life. Petr is extremely persistent and patient which in the end proves that not all nice guys finish last.

Claudia is an older sister who works hard to keep her and her younger brother alive and away from “the monster” that is following them. She meets Petr who is also trying to help out Todd who just wants to learn how to protect himself and Claudia. Petr is persistent and patient with Claudia when it comes to her indecisions. Its a romantic story so you know love blooms.

I adored the characters and Claudia and Petr’s interactions. They were funny and it was sweet to watch them slowly trust each other. I enjoyed reading about how these two got over their individual obstacles ( Claudia with her trust issues and Petr with his ego blown from how his ex reacted to his wound thinking no one would love him) Petr’s father was hilarious and kind hearted even his character was fun to read just to find out what he said or did next.

Definitely a wonderful book about learning to trust and love and seeing people for what they are on the inside not the outside. I would recommend this one to anyone who likes a great romantic book. Its a quick, sweet, entertaining read.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this one. I liked Petr in book 1, but loved him in this one. Having lost his twin along with his leg, he may have lost some of his confidence when it came to women, but as a person, he is still a very compassionate and caring person. Rather than let the fact that he can't be the soldier he was get him down, he knows he can still support his "brothers" in another capacity. While visiting the high school, he meets Todd, a new kid in town. One who comes across as troubled, someone he wants to help. One thing leads to another, and he finds himself taking the kid under his wing while unconsciously courting his sister.

Petr has always been a good guy. He's not only close to his family, he is also well known in the community. After the accident that nearly killed him, he was thankful for the second chance afforded him by his brother's sacrifice as well as the other soldiers affected by the explosion, but also questioned why he got to survive when others did not. When he encounters Todd in the diner his sister Claudia works at, he finds himself slowly being drawn to the siblings. He can sense something is off, but does not want to scare them off. I loved how he was able to help Todd feel better about himself and happy again. The slow build up of his relationship with Claudia, and her eventual trust in him was sweet.

I would definitely recommend this series to anyone who loves romances. Claudia is stalked by her ex, so there is a bit of abuse. If not your thing, then you may want to gloss over that section. It isn't extreme, but some readers may be more sensitive than others.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Semper Mine and was super excited when Lizzy said she was writing another. I love these stories. Petr was one of my favorites from Semper Mine and I wanted to know more about him so this gave you a deeper look into him. Claudia and Todd are a great brother and sister. Todd is a bit troubled but for good reason and with Petr's help he really grows into his own.
I loved reading about Claudia and the struggle if she could let go of the past to move on to the future. Claudia and Todd have a tough life they are constantly running from the past, the monster. Though you have a lot of heartbreak you also get to smile a lot through out. Petr's father brings out the light in this story. Though others may take him joking I feel he is not and is really serious but that is what you love so much. He wants his son and daughter to be happy and to have a life. The fact that his father is so into making sure that Petr is happy just makes you smile.
It was great to have Katya and Sawyer in the story a couple times. I grew to love their story first and see them and Katya's reaction to Claudia and how much she cares for her brother too was hilarious. I hope Lizzy continues the story maybe even having the center be all four or even continuing Todd's story. I just really love the emotions and the way the story flows.

[Anna D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was not enough substance/interaction between Petr and Claudia to believe their deep insta-love connection. I understand the connection Petr has with Claudia’s brother, Todd, since they interacted daily, but not with Claudia. It seemed like what drew Petr to Claudia is the fact that she was nothing like Brianna, but for me that’s not enough. The same goes for how Anton instantly liked Claudia – he knew nothing about her and he was readily willing to play matchmaker with his only son.

The development of the H/h here was insufficient. It felt more with Petr because we met him in Semper Mine. Claudia’s past too felt glazed over. We were given a very broad summary of what she went through that I felt like I had to fill in the blanks. Therefore I felt bad for her but it was hard to really sympathize (I wasn’t drawn in to her pain) – I think I felt this emotion with Todd more so than with Claudia.

I did enjoy the buildup of Petr and Claudia’s relationship, if you can call their 5 min interactions for the first 2 months a relationship. The way things were wrapped up was quick and unsatisfying, I must say. My favorite part of this book was actually Todd.

I really enjoyed this series and the Khavalov family. It’s a shame that Mikael died as I would have LOVED to read his love story.

[Cindy Barton · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am once again in awe of the writing ability of Lizzy Ford. Soldier Mine is such a heart warming and touching story, the reader will want to finish in one sitting. Not only do our men and women fight wars out of the country, but right here at home. It may not be the same war, but it is a war nonetheless. The war of finding ourselves is a challenge and we get to see these characters do that and reclaim their lives.
It is beyond my comprehension that Lizzy Ford has not been snatched up by the big publishing houses, and yes, she is that good. Soldier Mine, I believe, is her best work yet. I applaud her effort at bringing the plight of what our injured returning veterans are facing. How a hero, a confident and capable man is afraid of what a woman will think of the scars on his back or his missing leg. Petr will learn that when you truly love and are loved by someone, it just doesn't matter. Claudia and Todd learn to trust someone again and we see both blossom into who they should have always been able to be. To say I loved Soldier Mine would be an understatement, I adored it!!

[Crissy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

I don’t usually read military or war books, however, I am so glad I tried Soldier Mine because it was not as I expected. Petr was wounded in war and lost his twin brother Mikael who gave his life to save Petr’s. Petr does whatever he can to help those who struggle and goes to schools to share his story with others. Claudia and her brother Todd have their own struggles and are constantly on guard and ready to run at the first sign of danger; danger from a man named Jake who likes to take his anger out on both Claudia and Todd. Todd and Petr form a close relationship and as Claudia lets Petr help Todd, she realizes that he also helps her in more ways than one. Petr and Claudia both have insecurities and it’s in each other that they find the strength to follow their heart and take a chance on love. I enjoyed this book a lot and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a great romance read where scars run deep and what’s on the inside matters most.

[Lau · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.8/5

"You won't always be there to catch me, Petr."
He smiles. "I really don't think you need catching, Claudia. I think you're strong enough to land on your feet. I also think that won't stop me from being there to steady you, if you need it."

"You either let go and make a new life, take the chance to be happy, or you become entrenched in the past and end up miserable."

"You know what makes a damn good soldier?"
"A good person. You have to know when to use force and when to walk away. You have to think for yourself. You must be compassionate and gentle with the people around you but strong enough to stand up for what's right."

What happens when it's time to stop running? If I'm not moving forward, then where am I going? How do I learn to stay? What is real normal like, and how do I become it after everything I've been through?

Simple.
Enjoyable.
Lovable.
Had me buzzing with joy and laughter.
Everything I could ask for. (Oh Petr, thou love you so.)

xxx

I want to fall, as he says, but can't afford to let go.