Way of the Warrior

Troubleshooters #16.7 - Home Fire Inferno

by Suzanne Brockmann, Julie Ann Walker, Catherine Mann

EIGHT PASSIONATE LOVE STORIES ABOUT AMAZING MILITARY HEROES BY BESTSELLING AUTHORS:
Suzanne Brockmann, Julie Ann Walker, Catherine Mann, Tina Wainscott, Anne Elizabeth, M.L. Buchman, Kate SeRine, Lea Griffith

To honor and empower those who've served, all author and publisher proceeds go to the Wounded Warrior Project.

The Wounded Warrior Project was founded in 2002 and provides a wide range of programs and services to veterans and service members who have survived physical or mental injury during their brave service to our nation. Get involved or register for programs and benefits for yourself and your family online at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

"It is a proud privilege to be a soldier." —George S. Patton Jr.
"We sleep safely at night because rough men stand ready to visit violence on those who would harm us." —Winston Churchill

Genres: Romance, Anthologies, Military Fiction, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Suspense

473 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published May 5, 2015

About the author

After childhood plans to become the captain of a starship didn’t pan out, Suzanne Brockmann took her fascination with military history, her respect for the men and women who serve, her reverence for diversity, and her love of storytelling, and explored brave new worlds as a bestselling romance author.

Over the past thirty years she has written sixty-three novels, including her award-winning Troubleshooters series about Navy SEAL heroes and the women—and sometimes men—who win their hearts. Her personal favorite is the one where her most popular character, gay FBI agent Jules Cassidy, wins his happily-ever-after and marries the man of his dreams. Called All Through the Night, this mainstream romance novel with a hero and a hero hit the New York Times hardcover fiction bestseller list. In 2007, Suz donated all of her earnings from this book, in perpetuity, to MassEquality, to help win and preserve equal marriage rights in Massachusetts.

In addition to writing books, Suz writes and produces indie movies and TV including the award-winning romantic comedy The Perfect Wedding. Her recent feature, Out of Body, is streaming on Amazon Prime.

In 2018, Suz was given the Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award from the Romance Writers of America. Her latest projects are Blame It on Rio (Tall, Dark & Dangerous # 14), available in print and e-book from Suzanne Brockmann Books, and Marriage of Inconvenience, a six-episode LBGTQ rom-com TV series, streaming on Dekkoo in April 2023.

Reviews

[Tanja ~ KT Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, I must say that you are listening to a very biased reviewer. In case you didn’t know, my co-blogger and I are military wives. We have a very up close and personal connection to the men and women in uniform. Therefore anytime we can help or facilitate our armed forces we step up, stand up, and commit. It’s what we are programmed to do.

So needless to say, that when I saw a book by Suzanne Brockmann and then found out that all author and publisher proceeds will go to the Wounded Warrior Project, I was IMMEDIATELY on board.

All eight stories center on people in uniform and a love connection. Some are warm, fun, and sexy. Others are heartbreaking, gritty and gripping. War isn’t easy. The warrior has to be emotionally strong while being physically strong as well, and as for the loved ones at home? Well that kind of strength is unexplainable.

If you haven’t read some of these authors before it’s a great way to discover the writing style and flow. If you have, it’s a real treat for the fans. Way of the Warrior is an excellent collection of romance in uniform and a phenomenal way to gather attention for an extraordinary cause www.woundedwarriorproject.org

5 Always faithful always vigilant stars!



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[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anthologies have been a great source for encountering new authors or new series and I love it when the antho is themed like this one. The Wounded Warrior Project is a great cause and I think it fab that the authors gave a story to support it. As I do with anthologies, I will write up quick impressions about each story with a rating and then sum up.

Hot as Hell by Julie Ann Walker 4 Stars
Deep Six series #.5
It was a desperate dangerous terrorist attack situation and yet the humor in the down home Southernisms from Harper, the heroine, and the SEAL team's harassment of each other and Mark, the hero, along with the scorching passion made this a fun, fast moderately developed read. 4.21.15

In Plain Sight by Catherine Mann 4 Stars
Elite Force #4.5
Second chance romance set against a dangerous situation of a woman's fatal attraction ex trying to killer her and her childhood sweetheart the 911 Operator she calls. Enjoyed the blend of suspense, re-connection, the back story and especially the service dog to go with this spicy romance. 4.21.15

Torn by Kate SeRine 4 Stars
Protect and Serve #.5
Friends to lovers romance in this childhood sweetheart- return from the war injured-stalker plot. Enjoyed the girl and guy next door slow build romance, stalker plot and promise for the series. 4.21.15

War Games by Lea Griffth 4.5 Stars
Endgame Ops #.5
Whew! This author knows how to set up an opening scene. I don't think I would have put the book down short of a tornado blowing through and even then I would have just picked up and moved to the basement. Story stayed intense and did its job setting up what looks to be a killing black ops series. An Army Ranger and his dead pal's sister work to find out who framed him and go on the offensive to take down whoever is manipulating things for a government takeover. 4.22.15

Beauty and the Marine by Tina Wainscott 4.5 Stars
Justiss Alliance #3.5
So poignant to see these two people come together with one scarred, but learning he was worthy and the other scared and lonely in this mission to get rid of a dangerous stalker. And snikeys that was a great twist at the end. 4.22.15

NSDQ by M.L. Buchman 4.5 Stars
#6.6 Night Stalkers
And now I know what the intriguing title stands for and its powerful. Just as this story was intense and powerful along with sweet. I loved the role reversal of the heroine being the injured combat vet and the hero being the strong encourager who sees her as being more than she sees in herself after she sustains a career-ending injury while saving all the crew and passengers of her medivac helicopter.

Sealed With Passion by Anne Elizabeth 4 Stars
#3.5 West Coast Navy SEALs
Talk about fireworks and heat! This one starts with a bang and a huge misunderstanding that a determined SEAL and a feisty interior designer overcome while helping out their mutual friends settle into their new home because they never stopped caring. There is a sense that this story was a follow-up to another story, but still has its own resolution.

Home Fire Inferno (Burn, baby, burn) by Suzanne Brockmann 4.5 Stars
#17.5 Trouble Shooters
What a fun adventure helping delivery a baby while the mom is stranded out in the desert that showed off how a SEAL team and their significant others are family and support for each other. The wry humor and sweet excitement were a great intro to me for a series I now really want to read from the beginning.

The variety in the circumstances, writing styles, and romance were a big plus. I will also say that it was great that each story can function as a standalone though a few were obvious that they are part of a series. Most shared alternating narrations while a few were told third person by one character. I loved how many of the authors focused on different aspects of wounded combat vets who bore external and/or internal scars. Some even tied in the wonderful work that the Wounded Warrior Project works on. Each story was filled with so many strong points and honestly there wasn't a weak story in the group. I now have so many series that I need to try or in one case finish and it is with anticipation that I look forward to the effort.

I would definitely recommend this anthology to those who enjoy Military Romance, but other Contemporary Romance lovers might want to dip their toe into the sub-genre with this antho. It does the job of introducing and reacquainting the reader with several of the best writers in the genre. The romances mostly ranged into the spicy heat, but the action level of the plots varied.

My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Melliane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mon avis en Français

My English review

Hot as Hell (A Deep Six Novella) – Julie Ann Walker
I have heard a lot about the author and her books and I admit that I was curious to discover one of her writings. Finally, I can say that I spent a great time with this novella. We see the relationship between two people, francs towards each other about their desires and feelings. The set really made me want to discover more and to read an entire novel from the author. A good discovery with a military background. 4/5

In Plain Sight (An Elite Forte Novella) – Catherine Mann
I did not know about Catherine Mann but it’s true that I was really carried away by her novella here. We discover two childhood friends who find themselves in some rather difficult conditions. One came back and left the Special Forces while the other is trying to escape her past and a former violent and obsessed husband. I really liked to discover more about our duo, although I find that the end may be a little too fast relative to their relationship, especially after so much time away. But the author has highlighted problems for our hero that I had not yet had the opportunity to read. A good story again. 4/5

Torn (A Novella Protect and Serve) – Kate Serine
I do not think that I had a chance to read something other than paranormal romance for Kate Serine, so I was curious to discover another genre there. We also find here a kind of youthful love that finally never really continued. Yet now the young woman receives some very strange and obsessive attention brands and our man is determined to help and protect her. It was a rather nice reading and I really enjoyed it all. 4/5

War Games (An Endgame Ops Novella) – Lea Griffith
A little disappointed by this story … Yes, this novella presents everything that usually bothers me although the idea is good. A mixture of plots, all with a former soldier accused wrongly and a young woman, a good hacker decides to save him as he saved her brother. Yet the next insta-love bothered me a bit and therefore the evolution of the relationship was a bit unrealistic. Moreover, there is no resolution of the story and we could have more. It is more an introduction than a new complete story. 3/5

Beauty and The Marine – Tina Wainscott
Here we find two people who have more injuries than what they think. A supermodel who is harassed by a man who hires a former special forces to protect her. While a romance develops between them, the two may well realize that the threat is really present. Their story is quite fast without really taking too much importance. An interesting novella although I expected maybe a little more. 3.5 / 5

NSDQ (A Night Stalkers Romance) – M. L. Buchman
Unlike the other stories, it is a woman who will see her life change here. By losing a leg, she will realize what she lost and must now confront her nightmares to finally move forward. Yet this episode will also make her face a man who will be a great support in this difficult time. I enjoyed seeing a woman as a heroine here and although I was a little less carried away some of the stories, it was interesting to discover everything. 3/5

Sealed with Passion – Anne Elizabeth
We do not have this time a wounded person by life, but rather a man and a woman who meet after a time of absence and a big misunderstanding between them. Something they will also have to manage before moving forward. It was a nice little story that the author has here, but I found that everything was really too fast in their relationship. 3.5 / 5

Home Fire Inferno (Burn, Baby, Burn!) – Suzanne Brockmann
This is the last story and a new good discovery. We alternately follow a couple, both soldiers. The pregnant woman needs to deliver her baby in quite difficult conditions and her husband is kept in secret because he is on a mission or in any case it’s like that until he understands that something strange is happening. I loved the idea this time. 3.5 / 5

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Autry's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

Hot as Hell- Julie Ann Walker
Harper Searcy has been actively avoiding Michael “Mad Dog” Wainwright for some time now. They heated up the sheets and Harper closed off all contact in hopes of avoiding heartbreak. Harper is on constant repeat in Mad Dog’s head, so much so his fellow Marines are taking jabs at him for it. Harper and Michael had some serious chemistry; it was easy to see how they would be together as a couple. I loved the banter between Marines and how Harper and Michael couldn’t wait to push past the one-and-done motto.

In Plain Sight-Catherine Mann
Stacy has been trying to out run her past; it’s a terrifying past that if it catches up to her, could become deadly. Unbeknownst to her, when she calls for help the person who answers her is the same own her broke her heart years ago. Gavin has returned home, a changed man. His physical limitations tell him to let go of Stacy, but he can’t, the pull between the two is so magnetic. I felt so much sorrow in this novella for what their relationship could have been years ago, young love so strong that it held on for years…. through emotional/physical abuse, failed marriages and a broken solider. In Plain Sight is an intense novella, very well written.

Torn- Kate Serine
Joe and Sadie, could be your next door neighbors, proving wars are not always fought on battle fields or in foreign countries but right on your doorstep. This was a great friends to lovers story with an edge. When Sadie starts to receive bloody flowers and dead animals appear in mailboxes, Joe decides to take his job to another level. Sheriff by day, and personal protector/lover by night Joe finds out how much he’s willing to give to protect Sadie. Riddled with scars he realizes nothing would cut as deep as losing Sadie.

War Games- Lea Griffith
Who breaks out a person from the disciplinary section of Ft. Leavenworth? Vivi does, and she does it so well. Action packed from the first paragraph, Lea Griffith keeps you on your toes with Vivi and Rook. There is a big list of characters in this novella and at times it could be hard to follow, however nothing distracts Rook from protecting Vivi after she gets him out and on a level playing field. She kept her promise to her dying brother by helping Rook and risked losing her heart to him as well.

Beauty and the Marine- Tina Wainscott
Griff is a down-to-earth, back woods, mud loving man, battling scars after returning from war. . Kristy is an model, who has a stalker that wants nothing more than to take Kristy’s beauty from her. Griff’s background has left him with many scars, both physically and emotionally. The sparks this couple sent off could light up the sky, the shy awkwardness that couples have early in relationships was absolutely spot on between Kristy and Griff. I liked how Tina made the couple struggle to find the faith of believing in their selves and risking it all to become a couple.

A Night Stalkers Romance- M.L. Buchman
Lois Lang meets her match in Kendall Clark, and boy does he know how to push her past her limits. Unsure of life's path, Lois is struggling to piece together her life after becoming an amputee; she never planned to be medically discharged from her post. Clark is a life force all in his own, becoming friends then lovers, pushing Lois to bare her scars and providing her with strength to fly once again. This novella was the first one to have the warrior be female and an amputee; it was a great to see another side to these stories. Clark and Lois clearly have their work cut out for them and will battle for years but wouldn’t have anyone else beside them for years to come.

Sealed with Passion- Anne Elizabeth
To say Jonah and Alisha send up sparks would be an understatement, it’s more like a fireworks stand blew up. One-night years ago the couple set the bar for every relationship after and each came up short. Jonah is determined to find the reasons Alisha said the things she did and prove them wrong. They are left together to help finish a former teammates house, funded through the Wounded Warrior Project. The couple quickly works to finish their communication errors and finish the house just in time for the house warming party. This novella was written very well, it had great dialogue between characters and brought attention to a well deserved foundation; however I felt a little torn over Jonah and Alisha’s actions. I thought it could have been “carried out” in a better place.

Home Fire Inferno-Suzanne Brockmann
Can you imagine going into labor, while stuck in a broken down car along side a back road?! That’s exactly what happened to Jenn and her best friend Eden. A quick trip to help a friend turned into an unforgettable tale. Home Fire Inferno is filed with humor, babies and a SEAL team who is family in every way that counts. Suzanne did a great job adding a wide cast of characters and weaving them together to make a happily-ever-after. Each one adding depth to the story, this was a great way to end the Way of the Warrior.

Way of the Warrior is worth every penny, not only are you getting 8 novellas written by great authors, you are supporting The Wounded Warrior Project. These novellas propel you through lives that have been changed dramatically by wars. The authors address what could be the tip of the iceberg for military members returning home, being sideline by injuries or forced to leave the only career they’ve known. The reader can expect to feel anything from sorrow and anger to joy and pure happiness in each story. I would recommend this to anyone who loves a military romance with strong characters who work to overcome barriers in order to regain their lives.

Review copy provided for an honest review.

[Bea]

3/18/17: 3, maybe 3.5 stars Most of these authors were unknown to me when I picked this up. I won't continue reading many of them but I enjoyed exploring them and their worlds.

10/27/15: Read "Torn" by Kate Serine - 3 stars

"Torn" is from the anthology, "The Way of the Warrior" anthology and is the first story in SeRine's Protect & Serve series. As far as I know, it's not available outside of the anthology. I actually read this after reading the first book, "Stop At Nothing" and as I read it, I felt like I'd missed a book so I poked around and discovered that I'd missed this story but I had the anthology on my Kindle so I went back and read this story.

"Torn" is a friends to lovers story and it's a short story. Joe and Sadie have been friends since they were kids and there's been an attraction between them for years but they never acted on it. Now Joe, a former soldier, is home after being injured in the war in Afghanistan. Sadie has been helping him but it isn't until a stalker threatens her that they act on their feelings. The story, due to it's length, was lacking in character development. The romance, though underdeveloped, was sweet and there were some steamy love scenes. The stalker's identity was unexpected but it was hinted at earlier; like the romance, the mystery was underdeveloped. "Torn" would have worked better in a longer length but it was a sweet story and a good introduction to the series.

"And considering how he'd been reliving their kiss over and over again throughout the day only to have to divert his thoughts to keep Little Joe from popping up with an ill-timed "Hi, how are ya!" he was inclined to add pathetic loser as an option..."

[Under the Covers Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been an enormous fan of Suzanne Brockmann’s Troubleshooters for years, so when I heard about this anthology, I knew that it would be on my TBR.  I must admit, however, that I’ve been slacking in my reading of romantic suspense over the last few years.  I think for some time it was all that I read, and we all know how it is when you get burned out on a genre.  Suffice it to say, that I’ve been under a rock when it comes to my familiarity with romantic suspense authors in recent times.  The Way of the Warrior was THE perfect way of getting me back in the RS mindset.  Eight authors worked on this anthology, with moderate length, well-plotted stories, each involving military heroes of various kinds, both male and female.  The most wonderful thing is that all proceeds are being donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.

In terms of content, The Way of the Warrior gives a little bit of everything.  Some stories are sweet and sexy, others heart-poundingly intense.  Many focus on wounded soldiers and the life they face when coming home.  M.L. Buchman made me a fan in “NSDQ”, with his tough as nails female helo pilot dealing with life as an amputee.  I shed tears for Catherine Mann’s hero, Gavin, an ex pararescueman faced with a life changing disability in “In Plain Sight”.  I absolutely WILL buy Lea Griffith’s follow-up to “War Games.”   Her prison break scene involving spec ops soldier Rook and CIA operative Olivia had me absolutely captivated.  I couldn’t look away.  The chemistry was insane.  We go to Islamabad in Julie Ann Walker’s “Hot as Hell” for some very steamy safe room sex.  Sadie and Joe from Katie SeRine’s “Torn” get to fend off a sadistic stalker.  Damaged and scarred Griff falls in love with a model in “Beauty and the Marine.”  SEAL Jonah and Alisha get a second chance at love after botching their first attempt 10 years prior in “SEALed with Passion”.  Last but not least, Suzanne Brockmann pulls out all the stops (and characters!) from her Troubleshooter’s series to welcome in the newest little member of the family.  No more spoilers on that one.

I know many will buy this for Brockmann’s installment and regardless, it’s well worth it for such a great cause.  I would implore readers to read the other works in this anthology.  There isn’t one single dud in the group from my standpoint, each one bringing something new and different to the table.   I’ve been introduced to some new authors that made me very excited to go out and buy their backlists and it’s rekindled my love for romantic suspense again.  Lovers of contemporary romance would also really enjoy what The Way of the Warrior has to offer.

*ARC provided by publisher

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[Gwennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

TO be fair, I literally only read Suzanne Brockmann so my rating is only for that book.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always a treat to have an anthology with tons of my favorite authors with the bonus of them being all new stories.

Hot as Hell by Julie Ann Walker - This is the prequel to Ms Walker’s new series Deep Six. A group of Navy Seals who after their latest mission will retire and most will be going to Florida to run a marine salvage business. This novella gives a glimps of three of those Navy Seals while still in action sent in to rescue a woman and the US Ambassador to Pakistan. Harper Searcy and Michael “Mad Dog” Wainwright has a one night fling except Michael didn’t want it to be just a one night thing but Harper hasn’t been returning any of his calls since – until she calls him from the Embassy’s safe room after the Taliban blast their way in. It’s a short story but still has all the things you expect from this author – action, alpha men and the tough women who fall for them.

In Plain Sight by Catherine Mann - Stacie Currie lived through 4 years of abuse from her husband before divorcing him but neither that nor the restraining order has stopped him from terrorizing her. While on the line with 911 she realizes she is talking to the man she should have married all those years ago instead of pushing him away with her selfish demands. Gavin Novak has been medically discharged from the Air Force after a helicopter crash that almost ended his life. Now reduced to being a 911 operator due to his disabilities from the crash he cant believe when the scared woman on the other end of the phone is his childhood friend and ex lover Stacie. When the two finally meet face to face after 10 years they both realize that their feelings for each other are as strong now as they were back then. Gavin calls in some old friends from his PJ days to help with finally putting Stacie’s ex in jail where he belongs.

Torn by Kate SeRine - Torn kicks off a new romantic suspense series featuring the Dawson brothers Tom, Gabe, Joe, and Kyle. This story was about Joe who was injured by an IED during his tour with the National Guard. After 18 months of rehab he is finally getting back on his feet enough to start back to work with the Sheriff’s department where his father is the Sheriff and two of his brother’s are deputies. Joe and Sadie have been friends since they were little. They both knew they loved the other but never had the guts to ever cross the friend line. Joe’s brush with death is the catalyst that finally pushes them to confess their feelings for each other but turns out Sadie has a stalker and he’s decided he doesn’t like that Joe’s back in Sadie’s life. This was a new author to me and I enjoyed this one enough that I am looking forward to the 3 other brothers stories.

War Games by Lea Griffth - Didn’t want this one to end. Lea Griffith writes such intense stories and this short introduction to a new series about a black ops team barely whetted my appetite. Opening scene having CIA operative Vivi Bentwood breaking wrongly convicted prisoner Rook Granger out of Fort Leavenworth started the ball rolling on what’s sure to be another sure fire hit series for the author.

Beauty and the Marine by Tina Wainscott - Griff Tate see himself as a beast after being burned over 25% of his body while in combat. After a long recovery period he is content living on the 200 acre resort his family owns and away from the public. When his friend that runs a private security agency ask him if they could use the Resort to set up sting to catch a stalker he agrees not know that the victim would be so beautiful and make him long for things he doesn’t think he could ever had again. Kristy Marsden may have a beautiful face that makes her money as a model but she has scars of her own from the stalker. When she meets Griff she doesn’t see scars on his face she sees the wounded warrior on in the inside and that stirs up feelings she long thought the stalker had killed.

NSDQ by M.L. Buchman - All of these story so far in this anthology have been great but this one caused a little leakage to the eyes.. US Army Caption Lois Lang flew Black Hawks on CSR missions. She worked hard to get to be the pilot of her own crew. While on a CSR mission in Afghanistan they get hit with a RPG and she manages to save everyone at the cost of her leg. She had to have a below the knee amputation. Now stationed at Fort Lewis she struggles with knowing her career is over and flying is only thing she’s ever wanted to do. Fort Lewis is where training is done for the Little Bird, Black Hawk and Chinook. Kendall Clark (get it Lois and Clark  ) is a civilian Black Hawk engineer and training instructor. Turns out he’s had a thing for Lois for a while but never acted on it until now. This sweet man manages to give Lois back her life in more ways than one..

Sealed With Passion by Anne Elizabeth- After a FUBAR mission Jonah Melo commander insisted the entire team take time off. He decides he is going to check up on how his buddy’s house was coming along that is being built by the Wounded Warrior Housing Project. What he wasn’t expecting to see was Alisha Winters who is also a good friend of his buddy and wife who was the maid of honor in their wedding and who Jonah slept with that night. Now 5 years later and she cant stand the sight of him. But after some time alone together these two realize that since that night no one else has compared and once they clear up the misunderstanding of why Jonah left years ago these two decide time is too short to waste…

Home Fire Inferno (Burn, baby, burn) by Suzanne Brockmann – How many Seals does it take to deliver a baby?? When Jenn Gillman and Eden Zanella break down on the side of the road and 8 month pregnant Jenn’s water breaks we soon find out how many Seals it takes to get to them. Lots of familiar faces lend a hand in getting to Jenn and Eden. Been a while since I’ve read a Troubleshooter book but I certainly remembered all the guys and their spouses I missed the humor that Suzanne always has in her books.

[Darcy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hot as Hell - Julie Ann Walker

After finishing reading this one I'm excited to read the new series from this author. I thought Harper did a good job of trying to take care of the Ambassador, even when he was making poor choices. I liked the chemistry between Michael and Harper, even as the situation that they were in was an odd one. I was glad that they had the time to work things out and realize they both wanted the same thing. The rest of the teams plans for the future should bring about some fun stories.

In Plain Sight - Catherine Mann

This one grabbed me right from the start, the call we were in on had me on the edge of my seat hoping that Stacy would get help in time. I liked that when Stacy was at her worst a blast from her past was there keeping her safe. I thought that Gavin's choices after the phone call were good ones. It gave him a chance with Stacy again and let her direct things. I like the choices that both of them made at the end, they need a fresh start.

Torn - Kate SeRine

I don't know what it was about this one, but I feel like I should have liked it more than I did. I liked the couple, was glad that they finally admitted they liked each other in a boy/girl way and was glad that Joe realized he can do his job. But for the most part I was bored when read this one.


War Games - Lea Griffith

This one seems to be the start of a new series. I've never read this author, but I find myself very intrigued by this story. I want to know more about Endgame, more about those that were turned into it's patsy and how they are going to fight back. I loved Rook and Vivi from the start, loved that Vivi took charge and sort of bullied Rook. It was fun to see, but you knew he only let her seem in charge. I look forward to reading more about them!

Beauty and the Marine - Tina Wainscott

This one was very aptly titled. While I hated the situation that Kristy was in, I was glad that she got to meet Griff and let him see himself in a new light. The whole idea of Redneck games was funny, especially as the city girls were put in some crazy situations. I was glad at the end that Griff took a chance in more ways than one.

NDSQ - ML Buchman

I really like the NIght Stalker series and this short was a great addition to the series. As this one opened I hated the hard choice that Lois had to make, hated even more what it cost her and how she felt her life was over in the aftermath. Kendall was great to give Lois a different reason to go on. I was a bit surprised by the choice that Kendall made at the end, it was a big risk for him, but it was exactly what Lois needed to put things in perspective.

I loved all the Superman talk, it was fitting.

SEALed with Passion - Anne Elizabeth

I didn't really care for this one. I think part of it was how after 5 years and a one night stand Jonah and Alisha jumped into things without really talking. Sure they chatted a little of what went wrong in the past, but it didn't seem like enough for things to be all rainbows and puppies.

Home Fire Inferno - Suzanne Brockmann

I love the Troubleshooters series, so I'm always happy to spend time in their world. This little short is really what the whole series is about, crazy situations and relying on the SEAL family. Of course things would go wrong on Jenn and Eden's road trip, so wrong that their only recourse was to contact the Senior on the mission. I loved how everyone came together to help Eden and Jenn, while protecting Dan. It seemed like there was a new addition the the team in HoboMofo, would love to get more with him.

[Sunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review

Way of the Warrior is an anthology by some of the most popular authors in the romantic suspense/military genre. You will find stories from Suzanne Brockmann, Julie Ann Walker, Catherine Mann, Tina Wainscott, Anne Elizabeth, M.L. Buchman, Kate SeRine, and Lea Griffith. Each story either features a character or is about a wounded war veteran. What strikes me most about these stories is the way in which each author chronicles each warrior's attempts at normalcy. What happens to them in combat is extraordinary. Their sacrifice is extraordinary. Now, they come back and have to start a journey back to normal. Of course, because it is the romantic suspense genre, there is a bad guy to overcome but they find different ways to achieve that. However, in what is still true in the genre, they accomplish with a incredible sense of honor, protectiveness, and love. Wonderful reading.

Thank you to the publisher, authors, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a free and honest review.

[D.C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this was great. So many intriguing, and romantic stories all packed into one book put me in heaven.

Favorites of the anthology written by: Julie Ann Walker, Lea Griffith, ML Buchman, and Suzanne Brockman.

The focus of the stories surround difficulties each military member had to face while at the same time, love or things happening to those they love coming under some sort of conflict or threat. I loved how each author delivered the problem and wrapped up the conflict with minimal time. While I'm normally a lover of novels and/or longer books, these stories definitely kept me reading.

The charity link is also something very dear to my heart, so I'd like to give a big Hoorah to all authors for donating their time to delivering great stories!

[Marlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally published at Reading Reality

The Way of the Warrior is a collection of military romance stories that was published in support of the Wounded Warrior Project. All of the author and publisher proceeds are going to the project, in honor of those who have served.

Some of the stories include references to the Wounded Warrior Project. Some of the vets in the stories, are using its services, some volunteering, some both.

It’s a terrific project and also a terrific thing that the creators of this anthology are doing with this book. But what about the book itself?

All of the authors of the individual stories are well-known for their military romance, and all of the novellas are part of their ongoing series. In the case of Lea Griffith’s War Games, Kate SeRine’s Torn and Julie Ann Walker’s Hot as Hell, the stories here are introducing their new series.

And even though the other stories are in the middle, or in the case of Suzanne Brockmann’s Home Fire Inferno, deeply into their series, the stories stand alone. It probably helps that all of these stories are novella length, so the author’s have plenty of time to establish their characters and setting.

Howsomever, in reading the collection there was something that bothered me. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good military romance, but there’s an accidental theme that runs through too many of the stories. Out of 8 stories, 3 feature a heroine who is being stalked and needs her military man to rescue her from her violent and escalating stalker.

In all of the cases, the stalkers are so clever and organized that they leave no clues behind and the police are unable to help the victim, even when the stalker’s identity is known. I’m not saying this doesn’t happen (all too often) in real life, but this is fiction. Even though the individual stories were good, there was too much of this theme for my tastes. I don’t like to see my heroines as victims, especially not over and over.

Of course, your mileage may vary.

Of the stories that were not about stalker victims in need of rescue, my favorites were Julie Ann Walker’s Hot as Hell, War Games by Lea Griffith, and of course NSDQ by M.L. Buchman.

In Hot as Hell, our heroine is an administrative assistant at the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan. Harper is also trying to ignore the chemistry that was sparked in her one-night-stand with SEAL Mark. His unit is supposed to be guarding the embassy from a prospective attack, but after weeks of nothing happening, they’ve temporarily been sent to another assignment. And Harper has been ignoring his calls, pretending that she can’t bear the thought of being involved with a military man.

When the embassy is overrun by terrorists, Mark is the first person Harper calls. His unit is supposed to be back that day, and Harper needs a hero. Bad.

What I loved about this story is that Harper rescues herself first. As soon as she sees the gunfire, she does what she is supposed to do and gets herself into the embassy “panic room” in a nerve-wracking game of hide-and-seek, with her life as the prize if she doesn’t hide. Not that she doesn’t need Mark and his team to clear the embassy, but she might not be there to rescue if she hadn’t kept a clear head.

And not that the adrenaline rush of the danger and Mark riding to the rescue doesn’t finally melt all of Harper’s resistance to the man she already loves.

The heroine in War Games is also every bit as badass, in her completely different way, as her hero. Vivi is a CIA Cyber Spook, and she has arrived at Leavenworth to rescue her brother’s best friend, Navy SEAL Rook Granger. Because the last thing that her brother said to her before he died was that Rook was being framed, and that the op that killed their team was a set up from the get go.

It’s not an easy rescue. Rook isn’t just in solitary confinement, he’s chained to his cell to keep him from leaving. The solitary is to keep him from talking. Whatever went wrong on that last op, there are too many low people in high places who want to make sure that the truth never gets out. And that Rook doesn’t either.

But Vivi brings down all the security, and its backups and its backups' backups, to pay her brother back one last time. As Vivi and Rook cross the country, both pursuing and being pursued by people who are tracking their every move and are one step ahead every moment, they discover that they can only trust each other with a secret that can topple governments. And that they can finally trust each other with the hearts they both believed were dead.

Like Harper in Hot as Hell, Vivi is a heroine who takes care of herself. She isn’t as physically intimidating as Rook. In fact, she isn’t physically intimidating at all. But she can, and will, mess with people’s minds, their systems, and their credit reports as needed to get the job done.

In today’s world, fists aren’t the only way to beat someone to a pulp.

And last but not least, a novella in M.L. Buchman’s Night Stalkers series, NSDQ. NSDQ is the Night Stalkers’ motto: Night Stalkers Don’t Quit. Lois Lang has to tell herself those words every single day, as the ace chopper pilot is learning to live with a career ending injury. On a rescue mission, her chopper was hit with a full load of crew and wounded. With one engine down, the only way to keep her crew and passengers alive during the oncoming crash was to roll her bird so that it landed pilot side down. Everybody lived, but Lois lost one leg below the knee.

She’s a heroine, but she’s also certain that the Army will invalid her out of the only job she’s ever loved, or even wanted.

Lois Lang, named for two of Superman’s loves, needs to find her very own Clark Kent to see that not only can she have a good life with her injury, but that she still has a lot to offer the Army and even SOAR. Because heroines aren’t made of legs, they are made of heart.

This story was especially sweet, and also just a bit different. In this one, it's a woman warrior who is wounded and needs to find a way to recover her life, her purpose and her dignity. Even Superwoman needs someone to lean on now and again. The role reversal in the story made this one especially poignant.

Also, I just plain love this series.

Escape Rating B: That’s for the book as a whole. There were too many “stalker rescue” stories for my personal taste, especially since those are three of the first five stories. By the middle of the third, I was praying not to visit that theme again. I prefer a relationship of equals in contemporary romance, and those weren’t it.

A couple of the other stories just didn’t do much for me, but over my personal pet peeves rather than anything wrong with the story. In any collection, there are always a few stories that aren’t my cuppa. That’s kind of the point in a way, that everyone gets a sampling, and hopefully finds something they like.

I liked both the Walker and Griffith stories so much that I will be looking for the upcoming books in those series, and I always grab the Night Stalkers as soon as they appear in NetGalley. I’m still very happy that I followed that series from the beginning.

And I would happily give Hot as Hell by Julie Ann Walker, War Games by Lea Griffith and NSDQ by M.L. Buchman “A Grades” if they were published separately.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Wounded Warriors Project is one of the most worthy charities in existence. I am proud and in awe of the wonderful work they do with veterans and their families. That these authors and publishers are donating the proceeds to this organization says a lot about them as individuals and companies. I have read the work of only one of the authors and have the books of another two on my to-read list. The others I will seriously look to purchase in the future.

I happen to like anthologies. They are a great opportunity to read the work of new authors without committing to a full length book. It is also rewarding to get a complete story in a short amount of time.

Hot as Hell by Julie Ann Walker 5 Stars
Harper is secretary to the American Ambassador to Pakistani. They are caught in an attack on the embassy. Harper makes it to the safe room and waits and reviews her relationship with SEAL Michael. Michael's team comes and he waits with her in the safe room where they get time to come to terms with their feelings for each other and the path their future will take.

In Plain Sight by Catherine Mann 4 Stars
Stacy is a virtual prisoner in her home due to an abusive, stalker of an ex-husband. One night he breaks in and the 911 operator who answers her call reminds her of Gavin, her childhood sweetheart who joined the Air Force. But he's been gone for 10 years. Gavin was shot down in combat and came back blind. While trying to put his life back together, he has not contacted Stacy. Now she needs him and he needs her too.

Torn by Kate SeRine 5 Stars
Joe returns from war a wounded hero, but he feels like something much less. Sadie, his childhood friend can only wait until Joe decides that they are more than friends. Sadie has picked up a stalker since Joe has been home and Joe is not happy that she withheld that from him. As Joe protects Sadie they both express the love they have been hiding.

War Games by Lea Griffth 5 Stars
This story is about Vivi, whose brother, and other Delta Force soldiers, died under suspicious circumstances that were a setup to implicate Sergeant First Class Rook Granger. Michael's last request was for Vivi to clear Rook. Honor and duty are big factors here and the setup and cover up go far into the government. Great story, hot romance.

Beauty and the Marine by Tina Wainscott 5 Stars
Giff was a Marine victim of a suicide bomber. He survived, his friends didn't. He came home scared in body and soul. Kristy is a model who has attracted a stalker. He got to her once and also left scars. As a way to flush the stalker out. Kristy is doing promos for a redneck girls survival series. She takes one look at Griff and sees the beauty on the inside.

NSDQ by M.L. Buchman 4.5 Stars
U.S. Army Captain Lois Lang is a Black Hawk helicopter pilot who lost her foot in a rescue mission. She has nothing else and is having a tough time coming to terms with the end of her combat career. Kendall Clark is the Black Hawk factory trainer and has been in love with Lois for over two years. He finally makes his move and helps Lois see that she has a life other than combat missions. Night Stalkers Don't Quit

Sealed With Passion by Anne Elizabeth 4 Stars
Back home after a mission that went bust, SEAL Jonah is going to help put the finishing touches on a home built by the Wounded Warrior Project for his best friend, Kevin. Instead he comes face to face with Alisha and the memories he hasn't been able to forget.

Home Fire Inferno (Burn, baby, burn) by Suzanne Brockmann 5+++++ Stars
I can't tell you how tempting it was to start with this one, but I didn't. Sometimes you need to save the best for last. I LOVE IZZY!! I am an unabashed Troubleshooters groupie. No one does SEALS better than Suzanne Brockmann. When Jenn goes into labor with no transport in the San Diego desert, the guys are on the other side of the world and Eden has to be the voice of reason right now. I laughter and I cried and I REALLY, REALLY want a new Troubleshooters book with Jay's story.

[Marcela (BookaholicCat) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

I don’t usually read anthologies, but I made an exception with this one because it was for a really good cause. Also, almost all the authors were new to me authors –the only one I knew was Kate SeRine- and thought this was a good opportunity to discover new authors.

The Way of the Warrior is a compilation of eight short stories about military heroes coping with their new lives after being medically discharged from service. Some of these novellas are part of ongoing series and others are prequels to new series. One thing I can say is that they all let me wanting to know more about them and made me search for other books in their series.

The good thing about these novellas is that they all were easily read without need of previous knowledge of the series. The only one I had a little problem with was Home Fire Inferno by Suzanne Brockmann. There were many characters and it was pretty obvious with this one that they had history between them. At times it was a bit difficult to follow who was who.

One thing I really liked is that not all the military heroes are male. In the case of NSDQ by M.L. Buchman the hero is a woman. I really loved that novella and I’m planning to read other books in the Night Stalkers series.

Despite my little problems with Home Fire Inferno by Suzanne Brockmann I can honestly say I liked all of the novellas; of course, I like some more than others, but in general The Way of the Warrior is a pretty solid anthology.

My favorites stories were:

Hot As Hell (Deep Six #0.5) by Julie Ann Walker, I really liked the chemistry between the characters in this one. I loved that this short novella felt like a full-length novel. I’ll be reading, Hell or High Water, first book in this series.

Torn (Protect and Serve #0.5) by Kate SeRine, the love between the characters was easily felt. I also like the introductions to the Dawson brothers and I can’t wait to read their stories. First book in the series, Stop at Nothing will be release on November 3rd.

War Games (Endgame Ops #0.5) by Lea Griffith, I love dark heroes and in this one Lea Griffith gives us the epitome of one. Rook is swoon worthy. Also, I’m dying to know more about The Piper. I’m looking forward to reading first book in the series, All the King's Men, to be released on January 5th, 2016.

NSDQ (Night Stalkers #6.6) by M.L. Buchman, I loved that in this story the wounded hero was a woman. I also love the banter between the characters and the chemistry between them was off the charts. I’m planning to read previous books in this series, that’s for sure.

I recommend this anthology to Romantic suspense and military romance fans.
All proceeds from The Way of the Warrior will go to the Wounded Warrior Project; so you will not only be reading a great anthology, you will be doing it for a good cause. What are you waiting for? Go and get your copy now!

[Heather / Obsessed With Myshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am honored to be able to review this anthology. I am a huge supporter of the WWP – it’s incredibly close to my heart as my husband is a former Marine and I’ve seen firsthand some of the struggles members of the military face. Even if they don’t have physical scars, many hold emotional scars that are equally as difficult to overcome. In addition to the really really hot uniform, military men can be incredibly organized, loyal to a fault, and hot as fuck. This anthology highlights 8 stories of love, honor, commitment, and passion. There’s some seriously hot military men in there….



Let’s highlight a couple of my favorites, shall we?

Hot as Hell by Julie Ann Walker

While Harper attempts to escape the terrorists that have invaded the embassy where she’s working, she only hopes that Michael has returned from his mission in time to find her. When they find themselves stuck in the panic room, Michael forces Harper to face her fears of getting involved with him. I loved when they put their cards on the table – and I loved it more when he took her on the table. This was the perfect opener to a great anthology!

Elite Ops by Catherine Mann

Dangerous ex-husband? CHECK. Hot as hell former love returns? DOUBLE CHECK. Suspense AND hot sex? HELL YES. You’re in now, right? Ohhh you should be. This is a sweet story laced with danger about a returning first love. Sweet heat jumped between Stacy and Gavin fanning the flames for their rekindled romance. LOVED IT.

Beauty and the Marine by Tina Wainscott

While this is another protection based story with a crazy stalker, Tina makes it light, funny & emotional. Griff & Kristy are an unlikely pair, but when the two of them connect in an effort to lure Kristy’s stalker, there’s nothing that can keep them apart. I put two hearts next to this one in my notes, which basically means I melted while reading it. It doesn’t hurt that the leading man is a Marine…

———-

Phew….reading this book had me giving my husband The Eyes and I was thisclose to making him put on an old uniform to fulfill all of the fantasies I had trotting around my head. Great stories and a great cause – this is a WIN WIN. Pre-order this baby now!

[I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review]
This review looks prettier on my blog: http://obsessedwithmyshelf.com/2015/0...

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

New Troubleshooters short story by Suzanne Brockmann. That was enough to entice me to open the pages of "Way of the Warrior." But it was the good, the bad (boys) and the hot (no ugly here) that kept me turning the pages. From "over there" on the front lines to the home front, the stories are at heart a tribute to the men and women who dedicate their lives to serving our country. This collection gets 5 stars because the proceeds will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. I won't be rereading every story in the collection but I did discover a few new authors to add to my To Be Read pile (a.k.a: Leaning Tower of Pisa). Kate Serine's short story is the start of a new series. When I finished her short story I was scouring the Internet looking for more books by Kate. Anne Elizabeth and Catherine Mann are also on my must read list now. From steamy scenes to heart pounding adventure, the collection has something for every reader. And as always, Suz wrote an enthralling short story. More proof that the Troubleshooters series should be a TV series, with Suz as the head writer.

*I received a free advanced review ebook copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.

[Aoi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hot as Hell by Julie Ann Walker- 4 Stars
High action, with the right amount of emotion and heat.

In Plain Sight by Catherine Mann- 4 Stars

Torn by Kate SeRine - 2.5 Stars

War Games by Lea Griffth- 4 Stars
Packs a hell of a punch! This series is definitely on my tbr-radar.

Beauty and the Marine by Tina Wainscott 3 Stars
I found the idea of the fake reality show (improbable but) extremely cute. The interactions are fun to read about, unfortunately the stalker didn't scare me enough to up the stakes

NSDQ by M.L. Buchman -3 Stars
I loved the role reversal- the heroine being the injured and 'damaged' one. Hero was a sweetheart

Sealed With Passion by Anne Elizabeth -2 Stars
Meh. Didn't hold my attention.

Home Fire Inferno (Burn, baby, burn) by Suzanne Brockmann- Dnf
Too many characters thrown in- not a good idea reading it, if like me, this series is new to you

[Cardyn Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even without the donations to the Wounded Warrior Project, each story in The Way of the Warrior is worth reading on its own merits. For me, M.L. Buchman's "NSDQ" and S.Brockmann's "Burn, Baby, Burn (Keep the Homefires Burning)" tied for being the most satisfying in emotional intimacy and depth.

TWotW does what strong anthologies are supposed to do: It introduces readers to less familiar authors with the lure of superstar authors. As a result, Lea Griffith's Endgame Ops has been added to my list of furture reads. Tina Wainscott's story reminded me of the reasons why I used to read her titles like a book fiend.

None of TWotW stories are recycled (yay).

YA isn't my favorite, but the excerpt from S.B.'s upcoming release cowritten with her daughter is intriguing. [Correction: Night Sky was released at the end of 2014.]

The Way of the Warrior has obviously been written and compiled with a tremendous amount of love, respect, appreciation and awe for military personel, their families, and friends. Excellent.

[Laura *Little Read Riding Hood* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Several fun short stories to give you your contemporary hero fix. Men and women, wounded in service, all looking to find their happy endings. Some of these stories are cheesy, but most are fantastic and moving. I am always amazed when an author can make me feel things with a short story. It was also fantastic to get a sample of several authors I've been meaning to get to. Because of this they have moved up my TBR!

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

8 wonderful short stories with some very hot military heroes to warm your heart in this cold weather. To make this book even better, all profits go to the Wounded Warrior Project. All these novella tie into series from these very well known authors including Suzanne Brockmann, Julie Ann Walker, Catherine Mann and more. Enjoy.

[Michelle Cable · Rating 3 out of 5]

Received digital ARC from Edelweiss. I really enjoyed some of the stories, but others didn't do much for me.

[Michelle the Romance Witch · Rating 4 out of 5]

a very entertaining and passionate group of stories about wounded warrior and the people in their lives. full review coming soon.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every one of the stories included were excellent and have me searching out more of each authors books.

[MsRomanticReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review first appeared on Romance@Random.

The short version of my review would simply be to do yourself the favor of buying this book. I already have. If you love men (and one woman) in uniform and romantic suspense, this is one anthology you’ll want to have in your collection. The fact that all author and publisher proceeds go to the Wounded Warrior Project is icing on the cake.

Hot as Hell (Deep Six #0.5) by Julie Ann Walker
Tags: M/F, Navy SEAL, Suspense
Rating: 5 out of 5

My Summary: Harper Searcy doesn’t want to fall for a soldier, not after seeing what that sort of life did to her mother. So why couldn’t she stop thinking about the hot Navy SEAL she’d had a one-night stand with? When the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan where she works is attacked by terrorists, there’s only one man she knows will move heaven and earth to rescue her, Michael “Mad Dog” Wainwright. It’s probably a good thing that Michael “had absolutely no quit” in him.

Note: This is a novella for the new Deep Six series. The first book, Hell or High Water releases in July 2015 and is already available for pre-order.

I loved this couple so hard! Harper may have had a good excuse for not wanting to get romantically involved with Michael, but she wanted some stability in a potential relationship, meaning not having her man disappear on long secret missions indefinitely. I also liked the fact that they had been friends for the past six months. It may not seem like a big deal, but for me, it was refreshing that the budding relationship wasn’t based on a one night (or a string of nights) but was rooted in a more stable foundation. She was funny, sweet, passionate, and when the sh*t hit the fan, she was quick-thinking, feisty and courageous. Her southern belle persona and colloquialisms (“Why are you grinning’ at me like a billy goat in a briar patch?”) were endearing as well. There was a charm in the juvenile expression of their feelings: “I really like you.”

Michael was exactly what I expected in a romance hero. He was charming, sexy, well-endowed (according to Bran), and when his woman was in danger, nothing could have stopped him from getting to her. Also, he was man enough to realize he wanted more from Harper, and instead of shutting down, he sifted through his emotions and realized that settling down wasn’t a horrible idea. I love mature characters who communicate, and this couple did that. Their one love scene was appropriately hot and sweaty.

The next book in the series was set up with the mention that Michael and his team were quitting the SEALs for a whole other adventure. Ms. Walker was a new to m author, and I can’t wait to continue this series because by the sound of things, all their skills will still be a necessity.

—Quote—

“I didn’t realize it was such a touchy subject. And if it makes you feel any better, I figure the real reason she’s pulling that whole mum’s the word shtick is because she’s afraid to go another round with that python you pack in your pants.” ~ Bran Pallidino to Michael

⌘

In Plain Sight (Elite Force Novella ) by Catherine Mann
Tags: M/F, Divorced Heroine, Reunited Lovers, Second Chance at Love, Stalker, Blind Hero, Scarred Hero, Hero & Heroine: 25-29
Rating: 5 out of 5

My Summary: Stacy Currie believes the stalker trying to kill her is her ex-husband. A frantic 911 call not only brings the cavalry but also a very welcome blast from her past. Can she convince her childhood sweetheart that, despite his scars and blindness, they deserve the second chance at love?

This was a great story built on the foundation of a sweet childhood friendship that evolved into more the older they got. As romantic as it was that they’d promised themselves to one another at eighteen, it couldn’t withstand the desire of two people who wanted different paths in life. Gavin Novak (29) wanted to join the military, but Stacy (29) didn’t want to leave their hometown. And so they went their separate ways only to find their way back to one another a decade, and a world of hurt, later.

Gavin and Stacy made a wonderful couple. I admired her for having endured so much and staying strong through it all. She wasn’t a victim, but a survivor. When she came face to face with Gavin for the first time in ten years, there was no pity, recrimination or blame. The sudden and unexpected reunion didn’t remain awkward for long because these characters communicated openly and honestly, which was very refreshing from the norm. The suspense portion was solid and allowed Stacy to take her life back while dealing with her crazy ex. I also enjoyed the role reversal in terms of the romantic pursuit. Gavin’s insecurities and guilt for having failed Stacey were understandable, but she was confident and bold enough to step up and convince Gavin that she wanted him, disabilities and all. He didn’t dwell on the issue but forged full steam ahead while always leaving her with a choice. I just loved it. I have read the other books in this series in the past, and this novella was a wonderful addition.

⌘

Torn (Protect and Serve Novella) by Kate SeRine
Tags: M/F, Scarred Hero, Friends to Lovers, Stalker
Rating: 5 out of 5

My Summary: Best friends since childhood, Sadie Keaton and Joe Dawson had seen each other through life’s ups and downs. They never crossed the line, afraid it could ruin years of friendship. Joe nearly died during his last deployment, and once home, the friends begin to see each other in a completely different light. While they test the waters of becoming more than just friends, a stalker is after Sadie. Can Joe love her and keep her safe while overcoming his insecurities and PTSD?

First of all, the prologue made my heart skip a beat. The story opened with a scene of Joe on patrol in Kandahar. I won’t say more about it, but within those first few pages, I really got just how close Sadie and Joe were. The author did a very good job of establishing that and delivering on the feels right off the bat.

Sadie was a wonderful heroine. She kept her stalker issue a secret from him not wanting to add to his stress with his recovery and his PTSD. Despite being bold enough to make the first move on him, she did a good job of fighting the hurt of his rejection and not allowing him to believe that she didn’t care about taking their friendship to the next level. Too often, heroines tend to play off rejection like it didn’t matter just to save face. Not Sadie.

I liked Joe, although I felt he was slightly overshadowed by Sadie. Joe was sweet in his protectiveness of her, and I liked that he wasn’t the type of man to fall all over her at the first sign that she wanted him. The progression from friends to lovers wasn’t slow, but it wasn’t rushed either. On that note, if sex without protection is a pet peeve, you may not like their scene. I didn’t care in their case because it felt right for them. There were some interesting family dynamics between Joe, his brothers and his father that piqued my curiosity, so I would absolutely check out the rest of the books for more of Tom, Gabe and Kyle.

The reveal of the loathsome villain wasn’t a surprise, but the way it came about was executed so well, I was biting my nails. Overall, this was a highly enjoyable story with solid characters and a good plot. Definitely worth reading.

⌘

War Games (End Game Ops #0.5) by Lea Griffith
Tags: M/F, Disabled Hero, CIA, Black Ops, Heroine: 27
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

My Summary: Anthony “Rook” Granger is serving time for the deaths of his entire Delta Force unit on a mission gone south. CIA cyber spook, Olivia Bentwood is convinced Rook was made the scapegoat in a conspiracy that framed him for murder and got her brother killed. Together they embark on a dangerous mission for answers while flirting with the overwhelming desires riding them both.

Wow. I’ve read two other books by this author, so I was excited to see that Ms. Griffith had a new story for an upcoming series in this anthology. Not surprisingly, I expected to feel a sense of familiarity in her tone of storytelling and choice of characters. War Games actually seemed edgier and darker than her All or Nothing series, and I really liked it.

Olivia (27) was one kick-butt heroine, and I loved her! For a techie, she was stubborn, fearless, loyal and bold. If Rook intimidated her, she never showed it. Instead, his gruffness seemed to turn her on. Depending on the situation, she was either reserved or forward, but she never came across as a silly female playing hard to get.

At first Rook didn’t seem like hero material. He was downright moody, gruff, intense, and intimidating. Everything fit his description of being stone cold. Thankfully, the story was also told from his POV which gave insight into his demeanor and feelings towards Olivia.

Their connection was instantaneous and … I don’t know how to describe it. There was an edge to every look and touch they shared. It was simply hot and sexy. She was the light to his dark, and it was amusing to see her gradually thaw him out. Right alongside the blossoming romance was also a great suspense plot full of mystery and intrigue with plenty of twists and surprises. I got a little choked up at the end, but both Rook and I should have known better than to bet against Olivia. This is one series I’ll definitely be looking forward to, and I hope to catch more glimpses of this couple along the way.

I had one minor issue with the Rook’s rank as it wasn’t accurate, but perhaps it will be rectified in the final version (I read an ARC).

—Quote—

“I’m an all-in kinda guy, Vivi. It’ll be you for me and me for you as long as we’re together. You get me?”
[…]
“All in how?”
[…]
“Right here, right now, Vivi, all in you,” he murmured as he lowered his head.

⌘

Beauty and the Marine by Tina Wainscott
Tags: M/F, Scarred Hero, Ex-Military, Stalker, Hero: 24, Beauty and the Beast Theme,
Rating: 3.5 out of 5

My Summary: Model Kristy Marsden has a dangerous problem, so she enlists the help of Chase Justiss and his team to help flush out the stalker. Ex-Marine Griff Tate returned from the war badly burned and scarred and secluded himself on his family’s land leading hunting and fishing tours. Will the beauty be able to convince the beast that she can see beyond his scars and that he deserves to be loved?

Even though it wasn’t mentioned, I think this novella is part of the Justiss Alliance series. Readers of the series may remember Risk, Julian, their fiancés and Chase as they all make an appearance.

I’m not going to lie, but I found the idea of the fake reality tv promo with Kristy competing for Best Redneck as a means to lure the stalker onto their turf a little silly. But where the plot felt thin, I really enjoyed the theme of this story.

Despite Kristy’s stalker problem, she seemed to be a very composed and tough young woman. When the police couldn’t help her, she took matters into her own hands to get the job done instead of acting like a damsel in distress. One could have expected that a gorgeous young model would be shallow, but not her. That spark of self-confidence also carried through to her interactions with Griff. She was bold enough to make the first move, and the second, etc.

Griff (24) was incredibly self conscious of his burns that had left half of his face badly scarred. Not surprisingly, self-deprecation (a lot of it) was his go-to mode to deflect from his physical appearance. My heart broke a little for him each time he cracked jokes or made sarcastic comments about himself in an effort to brace or save himself from potential hurtful comments. He couldn’t or wouldn’t venture off his family’s land, even if it meant having a shot at love, but the stalker plot predictably forced his hand. However, I enjoyed how the rest of the story played out and the reveal of the stalker came as a surprise to me, so on that, well done.

Griff and Kristy made a really sweet couple. The theme of beauty meets beast, the message of acceptance and compassion and overcoming physical and emotional barriers was well executed. The love scene was sweet and tame in comparison to the other stories so far, but the unhurried nature suited these characters.

-Quote-

“This is where I belong.” Hidden from society. Out in nature, where the animals didn’t care that he was scarred.

⌘

NSDQ (A Night Stalkers Romance) by M. L. Buchman
Tags: M/F, Disabled Heroine, Friends to lovers
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

My Summary: Lois Lang, former Army combat pilot, must live with her new reality of never being able to fly again and deal with the prospect of romance. Kendall Clark vowed never to date a soldier after witnessing how it had affected his mother. But Lois is the first woman he’d considered breaking that vow for. Can he overcome his issue while helping the headstrong Lois overcome her own?

Yes! Finally a story with a military heroine! The story opened with a glimpse into the final moments of Lois’ last mission that changed her life forever. And let me tell you, she was a bad a**. Everything that comes to mind when you think about heroic actions in battle and the aftermath of having had to make life-altering, consequential decisions were all encompassed in that brief moment. Despite having lost her leg and trying to get used to wearing a prosthetic, she adhered to her unit’s motto of “Night Stalkers don’t quit.”

Kendall was a terrific hero and counterpart for Lois. She seemed like the stronger character of the two; she was hard where he was soft, but it didn’t dampen the enjoyment of the story because the beauty lay in everything that he did for her. He helped her overcome obstacles and helped her see that she still had so much to offer beyond flying in combat. He was always supportive, he gave her time and space, and he only pushed when he knew she was ready for it.

I loved the progress of their romance and the foundation it was built on. It wasn’t rushed, fall into bed quickly and right into insta-love. It was mentioned that they’d met at a party before her accident, and they’d naturally gravitated towards one another and spent the entire night just talking. Their one love scene was fade to black, but what was there to read seemed very tender. I also enjoyed that this couple communicated openly and honestly with each other. While I would have liked to see a bit more of Lois’ softer side, it was her determination and Kendall being the steady rock willing to lose her in order to win her heart that made this story a joy to read.

⌘

SEALed with Passion by Anne Elizabeth
Tags: M/F, Reunited Lovers
Rating: 2.5 out of 5

My Summary: Five years have passed since interior decorator Alisha Winters has seen Navy SEAL Jonah Melo. They’d become friends with in the three weeks leading up to his best friend’s wedding and spent one night together. And then he just left. So when he shows up unexpectedly, she’s not happy to see him, even if her body says otherwise. Jonah never stopped thinking about Alisha, but will she give him a second chance?

The story got off to a great start with angry and lusty sparks flying between Alisha and Jonah. She was a spitfire, and I could see why he was attracted to her. What I liked was how quickly they talked things through. He repeated what he’d heard five years ago that caused him not to bother to pursue her, and she explained her side of the story. What happened after that was quite frankly a huge rush. This story took place in one day and it covered a reunion, resolving a misunderstanding and falling into bed. Their “relationship” had to be expedited because he was slated to go off on another mission soon, of course. Even their first sex scene was so rushed that it sounded a little awkward. The scene was so stripped down; there was no dialogue throughout, just a description of actions. For example: Alisha did a risqué striptease with her bra and panties and then launched herself at him. Jonah put on a condom, caught her to him wrapping her legs around his waist, and walked them to the wall.

At least their second time came across as more sensual. Overall, the story lacked something, and the story went from amusing to slightly boring. If you don’t mind romances that move very quickly, you’ll probably still enjoy this.

⌘

Home Fire Inferno (Troubleshooters #16.5) by Suzanne Brockmann
Tags: Married Couple
Rating: 4 out of 5

My Summary: Jennilyn Gillman is about to give birth at any moment and Dan, her Navy SEAL husband, is halfway across the globe. It probably wasn’t a good idea to go on an impromptu road trip with her sister-in-law. Their car broke down in the middle of the desert, there’s a heat wave, and cell phone reception was shoddy. Friends and family move heaven and earth to rescue the stranded women in this amusing short story. (It was stated at the very beginning that this story takes place eight months after the end of Breaking the Rules.)

“One of these stories is not like the others.” Not only was it the odd one out by comparison, but it was crazy, and in some parts, funny. I haven’t read any of the other books in this series, so I don’t know if they were written in a similar manner, from multiple POVs (at least four). Even though so many characters made an appearance, and at times it was a little difficult remembering who was paired with who or how they related to one another, the story wasn’t that difficult to follow. For the most part, the dialogues were funny with an undercurrent of panic considering the situation they all found themselves in. It was amusing that the only person who seemed remotely calm was the mom to be. Dan’s commander was notified and eventually everyone on Dan’s team was covertly being let in on the stateside drama, everyone except him. I had a good laugh over those scenes. Seeing all the friends and family band together underscored what a tight knot group they were. I could go on, but really this story was absurd, whacky and so much fun to read.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars--

WAY OF THE WARRIOR Anthology-Release Date May 5, 2015

EIGHT PASSIONATE LOVE STORIES ABOUT AMAZING MILITARY HEROES BY BESTSELLING AUTHORS:

Suzanne Brockmann, Julie Ann Walker, Catherine Mann, Tina Wainscott, Anne Elizabeth, M.L. Buchman, Kate SeRine, Lea Griffith
To honor and empower those who've served, all author and publisher proceeds go to the Wounded Warrior Project.
The Wounded Warrior Project was founded in 2002 and provides a wide range of programs and services to veterans and service members who have survived physical or mental injury during their brave service to our nation. Get involved or register for programs and benefits for yourself and your family online at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

__________

REVIEW: THE WAY OF THE WARRIOR is a collection of eight military themed novellas focusing on different branches of the armed service. Several of the storylines look at recovery and moving forward; second skill options after leaving the service; and taking up causes in support of fellow warriors. Each storyline ends with a happily ever after; all but Home Fire Inferno have some sexual content and language although none of the storylines focus on the erotic.

All the author and publisher proceeds from the sale of WAY OF THE WARRIOR will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. For a few dollars, it is a worthy cause.

•••••••••••••••••

HOT AS HELL (Deep Six .5) by Julie Ann Walker

HOT AS HELL is the introductory novella to Julie Ann Walker’s new, contemporary DEEP SIX military, romance series focusing on six former Navy SEALs. This is secretary to the U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Harper Searcy, and Navy SEAL Michael ‘Mad Dog’ Wainwright’s storyline.

After an attack on the American Embassy in Pakistan, our heroine finds herself locked in a panic room with the hope that her friend and former one-night stand Michael Wainwright understood the urgency of her last phone call. As Michael’s team work with military precision to free up the hostages, Harper and Michael will reconnect with one another behind locked doors. The $ex scene is hot and urgent.

The prior relationship between our couple has already been established but Harper’s reluctance to move forward stems from a family history of broken hearts and painful reunions.

HOT AS HELL introduces Michael’s team of Navy SEALS, their last mission, and a glimpse into the future as our heroes return to civilian life in Florida, hoping to take over a marine salvage business with a new direction and the hope of a new love.

••••••••••••••

IN PLAIN SIGHT (Elite Force 4.5) by Catherine Mann

IN PLAIN SIGHT is the latest novella in Catherine Mann’s adult, contemporary ELITE FORCE military romance series focusing on a squadron of celebrated Air force pararescue jumpers or PJs. This is former nurse and freelance writer Stacy Currie, and Tech Sargeant and former pararescue medic Gavin Novak’s second chance storyline.

It has been over ten years since Stacy pushed Gavin out of her life when she was unwilling to follow Gavin’s career in the military. In the ensuing time, Stacy married and divorced her abusive ex husband, who is currently stalking our heroine with the threat to end her life. Enter Gavin Novak, Stacy’s first love and a man whose entire life has changed since entering the military. When Stacy’s ex husband’s threats become real, Gavin calls in a favor from his former pararescue teammates.

IN PLAIN SIGHT is another quick and suspense filled read that reintroduces the reader to Liam and Rachel (Under Fire #3) and Hugh Franco (Hot Zone #2) when Gavin calls in his former teammates to aid in the take down of Stacy’s ex husband. Gavin and Stacy will reunite and make plans for a permanent future-together.

•••••••••••••••

TORN (Protect and Serve .5) by Kate SeRine

TORN is the introductory novella in Kate SeRine’s adult, contemporary, Protect and Serve military romance series. This is deputy sheriff and former soldier Joe Dawson and high school English teacher Sadie Keaton’s storyline-a friends to lovers romance.

TORN follows Joe Dawson’s re-integration into civilian life eighteen months after an IED blast in Afghanistan destroyed his life and his career. The one bright spot was his childhood friend Sadie- a woman who calls to Joe’s heart and soul. But Sadie has a stalker and in this Joe is determined to ferret out the person responsible for the sadistic and threatening ‘gifts’ sent to Sadie.

Katie introduces the reader to the Dawson family; Sheriff Mac Dawson and his sons-Joe, Kyle and Tom-sheriff’s deputies and an FBI agent. After contacting the author I was informed that the series will focus on the Dawson males and the women they love. The next installment will be STOP AT NOTHING releasing November 2015.

••••••••••••••••••

WAR GAMES (Endgame Ops) by Lea Griffith

WAR GAMES is the introductory novella to Lea Griffith’s adult, contemporary Endgame Ops military romance series. This is military prisoner and Delta Force Sergeant Anthony ‘Rook’ Granger and CIA agent and cyber specialist Olivia ‘Vivi’ Bentwood’s storyline.

Rook is a military prisoner in Leavenworth -accused of killing his entire Delta Force unit in Mogadishu, Somalia- and Vivi is the CIA agent determined to prove his innocence. Vivi’s brother Michael was a member of Rook’s unit, and with his dying breath told Vivi that Rook had been framed for the death of their friends.

ENDGAMES is the introduction to a new series focusing on a secret military unit known as Endgames Op whose direction is to take down the people responsible for illegal military activities.

•••••••••••••••

BEAUTY AND THE MARINE by Tina Wainscott

BEAUTY AND THE MARINE is the latest novella in Tina Wainscott’s Justiss Alliance series focusing on former Marine Griff Tate, and model and photographer Kristy Marsden. Kristy has a stalker and has hired the private security agency Justiss Alliance where Griff Tate is their newest operative. Justiss Alliance is owned by Chase Justiss, whose team consists of former Navy SEALs and special ops. As the Justiss Alliance team prepare to film a ‘reality show’ at the Mud’N’Hunt belonging to Griff’s Uncle, in the hopes of hooking in the stalker, Kristy and Griff dance around one another both on and off camera.

The reader is reintroduced to Addie and Mollie; J-men Risk, Julian, and owner and CEO Chase Justiss. Griff is a man whose physical scars have left emotional wounds; Kristy is the woman who sees past the mask, into Griff’s heart and soul. BEAUTY AND THE MARINE is a story of insta-love; a spin on the fairy tale Beauty and the Beast, wherein, Beauty has some scars of her own.

•••••••••••••••

NSDQ (Night Stalkers ) by ML Buchman

NSDQ (Night Stalkers Don’t Quit) is the latest novella in ML Buchaman’s contemporary, adult Night Stalkers military romance series focusing on a group of specially trained military personnel from the U.S. Army secret helicopter regiment the 160th SOAR (Special Operations Aviation Regiment). NSDQ is US Army Captain and Blackhawk helicopter pilot Lois Lang (CSAR-Combat Search and Rescue) and helicopter engineer Kendall Clarke’s storyline.

NSDS focuses on Blackhawk helicopter pilot Lois Lang’s recovery following a mission that went horribly wrong. As a member of the CSAR team, Lois was deployed on a search and rescue mission wherein she and the entire crew survived an attack but landed Lois in the hospital with a missing leg and a lack of direction. Enter Kendall Clarke-Lois’s friend and the man who would give Lois a promise of the future.

NSDQ is a friends to lovers storyline that focuses on recovery and moving forward. ML Buchman’s characters are passionate, charismatic and real; his colorful voice and text pulls you into the storyline where you will experience the adventures and missions of the 160th SOAR.

••••••••••••••

SEALED WITH PASSION by Anne Elizabeth

REVIEW: SEALED WITH PASSION is the latest adult, contemporary, military romance novella from Anne Elizabeth’s West Coast Navy SEALs series that focuses on Navy SEAL Lt. Commander Jonah Melo, and Interior Decorator Alisha Winters- a second chance storyline about two people who had a one-night stand five years earlier.

Jonah Melo is on leave and headed towards his best friends place to help with the construction of their Wounded Warrior Project home. What Jonah never expected to find was the woman who has consumed his thoughts for five years-Alisha Winters-and the woman who called to his heart.

SEALED WITH PASSION is a very quick read; a story of second chances and insta-love between two people who never forgot their one night together. Memories, forgiveness and plans for the future wrap up Anne Elizabeth’s latest SEAL storyline.

~~

HOME FIRE INFERNO by Suzanne Brockman

HOME FIRE INFERNO is a novella from Suzanne Brockman’s TROUBLESHOOTER series that takes place after the events of BREAKING THE RULES (Book 16). The storyline focuses on an ensemble cast of characters including eight month pregnant Jennilyn and her Navy SEAL husband Danny Gillman. Jenni is about to go into labor as Danny heads out on his latest assignment.

Suzanne Brockman brings together many of her TROUBLESHOOTER series heroes, couples and characters in a storyline where the next generation of family comes into the world. As I am not familiar with Suzanne’s Troubleshooter series, the copious number of characters was a little disconcerting; I had some difficulty keeping the characters and connections aligned. If you are a fan of Brockman’s series, HOME FIRE INFERNO is a sweet storyline about friendship and love.

~~

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

www.thereadingcafe.com

[Les Romantiques · Rating 4 out of 5]

Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Rinou
Review Copy from the Publisher

Reading and especially reviewing an anthology is always delicate because most of the time the stories are unequal. But it’s also the occasion to discover new authors, and that’s why I’m often there for anthologies, even if it’s sometimes with apprehension. Here I wasn’t disappointed.

Julie Ann Walker – Hot as Hell
Harper and Michael shared a steamy night, and since then she turns down every attempt at coming together from the SEAL. But when the American embassy in Islamabad, where she works, is attacked by Talibans, she’s relived to know he’ll come to her rescue.
This novella introduces the author’s new series, of which the following volume should be published in July. Because of the short format, if we meet the future heroes of the following volumes, they are barely outlined, to make more room for the main couple. Here, Harper and Michael already know each other, as part of their works and intimately, so no evolution of their feelings on the horizon. Just explanations about why the heroine has been turning the hero down and a very nice sex scene (but not in that order).
Well written, and the shortness of the story isn’t a problem, even if I’d like for it to be a little longer, in order to explore the characters a bit more.
3,5/5

Catherine Mann – In Plain Sight
When Stacy is threatened by her ex-husband, she’s staggered to hear the voice of her first love at the emergency dispatcher. Gavin will have to overcome his recent blindness to protect her.
This novella is part of the Elite Force series which has already 4 novels featuring Pararescuemen. There’s a brief apparition of previous characters, but nothing bothering the comprehension if you didn’t read the other books. Once more the couple already knows each other, they were in love when they were teens, but ten years have passed since then. I confess that instant love after a long split always leave me skeptical, and here the “evolution” takes place in less than two days, but I found their story rang true all the same, which shows the author’s skill. A plus for the originality of the hero’s former job that I’ve rarely seen for a main character.
3,5/5

Kate SeRine – Torn
Joe isn’t sure he’s ready to come back to his job as sheriff deputy after being seriously injured at war, but when he discovers someone is stalking Sadie, the woman he’s always loved, he’s determined to put his fears aside.
This novella introduces a new series of which the next volume should be published in November, and I really liked the author’s style. Here again the hero and heroine know each other, and they’ve been in love for a long time even if they never confess their feelings. The story takes place over a few days, and we see the evolution of Joe and Sadie’s certainties about what they want for their future, and their coming closer. I found there was a cute chemistry between them, and the story fits well in the format. We meet quickly the hero’s brothers, who will be I hope the heroes of the rest of the series. See you for the next volume.
4/5

Lea Griffith – War Games
Olivia promised to her dying brother to discover the truth about the mission which cost him his life, and for that she needs Sergeant Rook’s help, even if he doesn’t agree.
The novella introduces the Endgame Ops series of which the next volume should be published next year. For the first time since the beginning of the anthology, the characters don’t know each other, except for what Olivia’s brother told both. We have here an instant attraction, which could turn into more given more pages. I had the feeling the story was less focused on the couple even if we see few secondary characters, probably because there’s a strong effort of setting up the plot of the series. It left me with a slight feeling of incompleteness on the couple point of view, even if they are together in the end, but desire to read the future development.
3/5

Tina Wainscott - Beauty and the Marine
Griff is a former Marine hiding his battle-scarred face. Kristy is a model hiding from a vicious stalker. A scheme to catch her tormentor brings them together…but will it also tear them apart?
This novella is part of the Justiss Alliance series which has already 3 novels and another novella featuring Navy SEALs. No problem if you didn’t read the other books, the previous characters present here just make a brief apparition. We have again a story with instant attraction that ring quite true in spite of it. The hero and the heroine each have a violent past to overcome, but Kristy is especially a fighter full of hope for the future. In so little time it’s difficult to believe in a real change of mind for Griff, but their story is very cute and ends on a hopeful note.
3/5

M.L. Buchman – NSDQ
Loïs, seasoned helicopter pilot, has trouble envisioning her life now that an amputation prevents her to go back in a Black Hawk pilot’s seat. But Kendall, the base helicopter specialist, intends to make her understand she always has a great value.
This novella is part of The Night Stalker series which has 7 novels and several novellas featuring the helicopter pilots of a special unit. Once again a story where the characters know each other, even if they never saw each other. As usual with the author, there are times where you must hold on because the technical vocabulary can be very present. There’s also the fact we only have Loïs point of view, which for me amplifies the feeling toward her story but could bother some people. And I didn’t really feel the evolution of their feelings, they were there and that’s all. But I really liked how Loïs tries so overcome her injury, how Kendall makes her come out of her shell little by little. In short, I liked this story and I found it original and touching.
4/5

Anne Elizabeth - SEALed with Passion
When Jonas arrives on leave at his friend’s house, he doesn’t imagine he’ll find himself face to face with Alisha, the woman with whom he spent an exceptional night several years ago.
The novella is part of the West Coast Navy SEALs series which already has 3 novels. The characters know each other intimately, but a big misunderstanding, which could have been sorted out with a short discussion, separated them. But as soon as they see each other they are again attracted, it’s almost at the beginning of the novella that they finally talk, confess their feelings that never disappeared, and wam bam they are talking about forever. All this is too fast for me ad seems to be an excerpt from a longer story.
2,5/5

Suzanne Brockmann - Home Fire Inferno
Jenn, goes into early labor while stranded in the California desert, as her Navy SEAL husband and most of Team Sixteen are mission ready overseas. Meanwhile, left behind with a recent knee injury, Chief Jay Lopez decides that the timing might be exactly right for a romantic interlude with a pretty fifth grade teacher.
This novella is part of the Troubleshooters series which already has 16 novels and several novellas. I confess to have stopped reading it after the 6th, put off when seeing the number of the other volumes in the series, so I didn’t recognize most of the characters, but that wasn’t a problem for the comprehension. We follow on one side Jenn and her sister-in-law who desperately try to contact the emergency service without alerting their SEALs husbands mission ready, the aforesaid SEALs who are hanging around without knowing if they’ll finally do anything, and Jay who has taken the place of a colleague for a father-daughter day at school and is envisaging to hit on the teacher. It was a pleasure reading this author again.
4/5


In the warriors present here we have a Pararescueman, a Delta Force, a helicopter pilot, a National Guard, a Marine, and several SEALs, so a range very likeable by its diversity. Please note that only M.L. Buchman, Suzanne Brockmann, and Anne Elizabeth’s stories are not romantic suspense.
Overall I really liked this anthology a lot, even the novella I rated less was likeable, and I noted new authors to follow.

[Angela ReadingCave · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book includes eight short stories. I thought for the review I will give a few words on each of the stories.

Hot As Hell by Julie Ann Walker

Harper is a secretary to the US Ambassador in Pakistan. For months they were expecting an attack and none came- to the Seal team that was originally protecting them gets called away on another mission. While they are gone the embassy gets attacked. Will Michael and his team get to her in time?

I loved Harper- she is a no nonsense kinda gal in the middle of a huge crisis. Michael is a sweetheart who will stop at nothing to save her. That is main objective at the moment, followed closely by the need to define their relationship. He is a man who knows what he wants and he is not afraid to grab for it.

This story gets 5 out of 5 stars. I can definitely say I will be looking for more stories in this series.

In Plain Sight by Catherine Mann

Stacy is being stalked by her ex-hubby Jared. A stalker who is seriously escalating into dangerous territory. The only problem is that no one believes her except that is for the guy who answered her 911 phone call-Gavin. Just so happens Gavin is her first love. The boy who walked away from their love to join the military. Gavin was medically discharged and is coming to terms with his new disability. Being disabled is not going to stop him from stopping Jared though.

Stacy and Gavin just didn’t do it for me. I felt that their chemistry wasn’t there. Also their reconnect happens instantly which after ten years wouldn’t fly in my world.

This story gets 3 out of 5 stars.

Torn by Kate SeRine

Sadie and Joe grew up together- the best of friends. Both wanting more but not acting on it. Joe joins the military and Sadie stays behind. Joe gets hurts and returns to their home town, where Sadie is a teacher. Someone is stalking Sadie, Joe doesn’t know but he is about to find out.

I puffy heart love Sadie. She is strong, she is independent and most of all she is understanding. She knows her bestie and is there for him always. Joe knows he loves Sadie but he doesn’t feel like he deserves her, and to be honest maybe he didn’t. At least not until she was in danger- that is when he man’s up and is determine to catch the gal. Seriously, moments with Joe can be a swoonfeast.

This story gets 5 out of 5 stars. I am waiting impatiently for the next Kate SeRine book to release- I mean it has seriously been too long!

War Games by Lea Griffin

Rook is the only living member of a Delta Force Team, he is also in Ft. Leavenworth. Vivi is just the gal to get him out of there- after all she did promise her brother on his death bed. All she has to do is stage a prison break, get Rook and help him clear his name. Plus, not get caught. No biggie- especially for Vivi she can hack into any system. Clearing his name though- that might be a bit hard.

Vivi is another gal that totally floated my boat. Loyalty to her brother outweighs her fears and she will do what is asked of her. Her blind trust in the character of Rook is also pretty amazing, especially since he doesn’t trust himself. Rook knows he was framed but where does Vivi fit in? Can he trust her?

This story gets 5 out of 5 stars. I want to read more by this author.

Beauty and the Marine by Tina Wainscott

Kristy is a model being stalked- so much so she has been in hiding for two years. Her security team has decided to smoke the stalker out. They do this with a fake reality tv show on a ranch ran by a guy named Griff. Griff is a military man in hiding because of survivor guilt and scars- visible scars.

I did not connect with the characters in this one.

This story gets 2 out of 5 stars.

NSDQ 325 by M.I. Buchman

US Army Captain Lois Lang is a pilot or was until she lost a leg putting the chopper down. When she realized that it was either the leg or her people she didn’t hesitate. Now she has a prosthetic and is trying to get her life back. She can’t go back into the chopper so there is the fear that the review board will be dismissing her soon. Kendall Clark is a Black Hawk specialist that has been her friend and colleague for years. He has also been carrying a torch for her since forever.

I loved Lois- she is down to earth, she is honest and above all she is real. Kendall is the perfect guy for her- observant, calculating and with the right amount of confidence in his decisions. Some great moments in this one, also some teary moments in this one.

This tale got 4 out of 5 stars.

SEALed with Passion by Anne Elizabeth

Jonah is a Navy Seal on a mission- to help his best friend finish his house. His house is part of the Wounded Warrior Project- Kevin lost the use of his legs while he was serving in the military. He already knows that Alisha will be there after all she is Julie’s bestie. Jonah and Alisha met at Kevin and Julie’s wedding but have not spoken since that incredible night.

I liked Jonah- he is honorable, loyal and really just a nice guy. Alisha is well she is bossy, a know –it-all and pretty much likes things in order. They would fit together perfectly, except for the aftermath of that night they had together. Loved that this one gave us insight into Jonah’s head and why he did what he did.

3 out of 5 stars for this one.

Home Fire Inferno by Suzanne Brockmann

Okay so the Home Fire Inferno was not what I was expecting. Instead of a sweet romance I got a tale of how a Navy Seal team is really a family. What a tale this was. Two of the Seal’s partners are stranded in the desert and one goes into labor. Since the Team is go ready she doesn’t want her hubby to know. So they end up calling his Senior Officer. Who calls the members of the team that are back home to go and find them. Holy cowziers~ y’all this one made cry and laugh and yeah it was pretty awesome.

My Rating 5 stars out of 5

As a rule I tend to avoid books with multiple authors and stories. Mostly, because I end up paying for a book that has one or two stories that I like and the rest make me feel like it was a waste of my time. That is so not true in this case. Some of these tales are amazing- they will make you laugh and make you cry. There were three that I didn’t care for but other people loved them. Give this book a try- it’s for a good cause and well the stories are entertaining.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, so I might be a teensy bit biased here.

It's possible I saw the words "Suzanne Brockmann" and "Troubleshooters novella" and me loving this book was a forgone conclusion. Especially when a closer look revealed the words "M.L. Buchman" and "Night Stalkers".

Yep. I was a goner.

Such a fantastic collection--most work fine as standalones, and serve as great intros the the authors' series--and all to benefit a great cause! It's possible I might have two copies--one in print and one in ebook. Maybe ;)

"Hot as Hell" (A Deep Six novella) by Julie Ann Walker--My first read by Ms. Walker, though I own several of her Black Knights, Inc. books. I don't have any of her Deep Six books yet, but that is going to change--soon. "Hot as Hell" is the story of several intense (in more than one way!) hours inside the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan for the ambassador's secretary and the SEAL who comes to her rescue. Including some darn memorable "hot as hell" moments in the embassy's panic room...

A Navy SEAL who knows his figurative language ("But before he could respond to that ridiculous bit of alliterative nonsense--python he packed in his pants? Jesus--his cell phone came to life in his hand") and a Star Wars reference ("Luke, I am your father") ensure this isn't going to be my last read in this series.

Rating: 4 stars / A-


"In Plain Sight" (An Elite Force novella) by Catherine Mann--Again, I've got several of Ms. Mann's books. Again, I have yet to read any of them. Clearly I am not spending my time wisely...I'm adding this series to my TBR pronto as well.

Stacey and Gavin were childhood best friends and sweethearts, but were separated by time and circumstance. Things have changed so much for both of them in the meantime, and now Stacey's life's in danger. Can he save her--or will they possibly be able to save each other?

Rating: 4 stars / B+


"Torn" (A Protect and Serve novella) by Kate SeRine--a new-to-me author that is another new addition to the TBR list. A friends-to-lovers story (yay!)--Joe and Sadie have each carried a secret torch for the other for years, but neither wanted to risk their relationship by acting on it. But a brush with death has a way of clarifying things...

Rating: 4 stars / B


"War Games" (An Endgame Ops novella) by Lea Griffith--ends with a happy-for-now for the hero and heroine, but the novella itself serves as an intro to the author's brand new series. The main problem the characters are dealing is nowhere close to any kind of resolution at the story's conclusion. It's an awesome set-up--it drew me right in from the first page--but we have to wait until January 2016 (!) for its continuation.

Sigh...

Rating: 4 stars / A-


"Beauty and the Marine" by Tina Wainscott is a fun twist on the Beauty and the Beast story--with a fake reality show (complete with models competing to be the best redneck chick) slash real undercover op.

Sadly, it's missing the awesome library from the Disney version (my favorite part, obviously) but it's still a sweet story. My favorite line? "Griff, I don't want a guy who looks good. I want a guy who is good."

Happy sigh.

But I will never go handfishing. [shudder]

Rating: 4 stars / B+


"NSDQ" (A Night Stalkers novella) by M.L. Buchman--I am shamefully behind in this series, a shortcoming I intend to fix when the semester's over. "NSDQ" (Night Stalkers Don't Quit) definitely gives you a taste of the series, but since the main characters aren't active members of the Night Stalkers team for the bulk of the story, it's a great place to whet your appetite.

I absolutely loved that the heroine's name is Lois Lang (nickname "Superwoman" and later and even better, "woman of steel") and the hero is Clark--Kendall Clark, anyway. (AKA "Superboy", of course.) Just too perfect--and a great story to boot.

Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A


"SEALed with Passion" by Anne Elizabeth--really the only story of the whole bunch that didn't work for me. The idea behind it is solid--it even incorporates the Wounded Warrior Project, which was a nice touch--but the execution was lacking. Stilted conversation, both internal and external, characters who acted like they were in junior high, and not a whole heck of a lot of believable chemistry between the hero and heroine made this one just a meh read.

Rating: 2 1/2 stars / D+


"Home Fire Inferno (Burn, Baby Burn!)" (A Troubleshooters novella)--I would have bought the book for this story alone. Heck, I think I would have bought two copies for this story alone...

I loved the glimpse into life between the novels that this story offered. An amazing number of the Troubleshooters characters manage to show up in this one, for a totally worthy cause--and it was so much fun to read. If you've read the other books in the series, you'll love this one. If you haven't, you won't quite understand all the dynamics between the characters, but it will still give you a definite flavor for the series as a whole.

One of my favorite lines, courtesy of Izzy Zanella, thinking about how to deal with pregnant women--"It was essential, always, to have salt-free soda crackers at hand. And the sympathetic words, I know you feel exhausted/nauseous/awful/homicidal. I'm so sorry, baby. How can I help? were also good to keep near the tip of one's baby-making tongue."

True dat.

Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A

I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. And then I went out and bought two more...

[Anne - Books of My Heart · Rating 4 out of 5]

OK I read the two stories in series I read.

1. Engame Ops : It helped me know a bit more about the series but not enough. The first full book Flash of Fury is better, more. And why do all the men smell like mint and the women like wildflowers?

2. Home Fire Inferno from the Troubleshooters series by Suzanne Brockmann. This was a great novella with all hands on deck for "trouble" at home. Great to see so many and it was funny too.

[Jessie Zaddack · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good taste of 8 different authors! I know a few ill be looking into for the future!!