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Shadow Warriors #8
Running Fire
He was a haven in the midst of Hell…
Temporarily assigned to the Shadow Squadron in a troubled region of Afghanistan, Chief Warrant Officer and pilot Leah Mackenzie is no stranger to conflict—even if most of her physical and emotional scars are courtesy of her vicious ex. Still, she's got a bad feeling about picking up a team of stranded SEALs. A feeling that's all too justified once enemy fire hits their helicopter and all hell breaks loose…
SEAL Kell Ballard's goal was to get the injured pilot out of harm's way and find shelter deep in the labyrinth of caves. It's a place of dark intimacy, where Leah finds unexpected safety in a man's arms. Where prohibited attraction burns brightly. And where they'll hide until the time comes to face the enemy outside…and the enemy within their ranks.
Temporarily assigned to the Shadow Squadron in a troubled region of Afghanistan, Chief Warrant Officer and pilot Leah Mackenzie is no stranger to conflict—even if most of her physical and emotional scars are courtesy of her vicious ex. Still, she's got a bad feeling about picking up a team of stranded SEALs. A feeling that's all too justified once enemy fire hits their helicopter and all hell breaks loose…
SEAL Kell Ballard's goal was to get the injured pilot out of harm's way and find shelter deep in the labyrinth of caves. It's a place of dark intimacy, where Leah finds unexpected safety in a man's arms. Where prohibited attraction burns brightly. And where they'll hide until the time comes to face the enemy outside…and the enemy within their ranks.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 28, 2015
69 people are currently reading
870 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay McKenna
358 books2,497 followersI've lived six lives in one and it all shows up in the books I write, one way or another.
I was always a risk taker and broke mustangs at thirteen years old in Oregon. I learn to break them with love, not threat or pain.
At 17 years old, I picked night-crawlers (worms) out in our Oregon orchards from 9pm to midnight, every night. I earned enough money to buy my school clothes and book. I also plunked down $600 to a flight company at the Medford, Oregon airport and asked them to teach me...a girl...to fly. I soloed in 12 hours, which is average. From that time until I left for the US Navy at 18, I had accrued 39 hours of flight time in my Cessna 150 single engine airplane.
I was in the US military and was an AG3 (weather forecaster). There was no airplane club, so I couldn't fly when I was in the Navy. But I could look at the clouds in the sky ;-).
Later, I flew in a B-52 bomber for a day and night mission (18 hours total), a T-38 Talon jet, USAF, where I was riding in a "chase plane" on a test flight in a Dragonfly jet.
I was one of the first AFLA (American Fencing League of America) women fencers to fence with epee and sabre. These weapons were closed to women because they were too 'heavy' for a female to handle. I said baloney and fought the males and won half my bouts. I was part of a surge of women fencers on the East Coast in the 1970's to push for equality in the sport. Together, we changed the sport and changed the mind of the men. Today? In the Olympics? Women now fence in foil, epee and sabre, thanks to what we did as a vanguard showing the world it could be done.
I then became a volunteer firefighter when I was a civilian once more, the first woman in an all - male fire department in West Point, Ohio for three years. I became a local expert not only in firefighting, driving the engine and tanker trunks, but also had training in hazardous material (Reynoldsburg Fire Academy, Columbus, OH).
My books always reflect what I experienced. If you like edgy, gritty, deeply and emotionally intense love stories with sympathetic heroes and heroines, check out my newest series that will be available mid-Oct. 2015, and it incorporates much of what I have lived.
I was always a risk taker and broke mustangs at thirteen years old in Oregon. I learn to break them with love, not threat or pain.
At 17 years old, I picked night-crawlers (worms) out in our Oregon orchards from 9pm to midnight, every night. I earned enough money to buy my school clothes and book. I also plunked down $600 to a flight company at the Medford, Oregon airport and asked them to teach me...a girl...to fly. I soloed in 12 hours, which is average. From that time until I left for the US Navy at 18, I had accrued 39 hours of flight time in my Cessna 150 single engine airplane.
I was in the US military and was an AG3 (weather forecaster). There was no airplane club, so I couldn't fly when I was in the Navy. But I could look at the clouds in the sky ;-).
Later, I flew in a B-52 bomber for a day and night mission (18 hours total), a T-38 Talon jet, USAF, where I was riding in a "chase plane" on a test flight in a Dragonfly jet.
I was one of the first AFLA (American Fencing League of America) women fencers to fence with epee and sabre. These weapons were closed to women because they were too 'heavy' for a female to handle. I said baloney and fought the males and won half my bouts. I was part of a surge of women fencers on the East Coast in the 1970's to push for equality in the sport. Together, we changed the sport and changed the mind of the men. Today? In the Olympics? Women now fence in foil, epee and sabre, thanks to what we did as a vanguard showing the world it could be done.
I then became a volunteer firefighter when I was a civilian once more, the first woman in an all - male fire department in West Point, Ohio for three years. I became a local expert not only in firefighting, driving the engine and tanker trunks, but also had training in hazardous material (Reynoldsburg Fire Academy, Columbus, OH).
My books always reflect what I experienced. If you like edgy, gritty, deeply and emotionally intense love stories with sympathetic heroes and heroines, check out my newest series that will be available mid-Oct. 2015, and it incorporates much of what I have lived.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 12, 2015
About a 3.5 star read for me. At first this felt like some of the other Lindsay McKenna books I've read lately, but as I read on it began to grow on me. Most of the book focuses on the two main characters Leah and Kell. On a routine mission in Afghanistan, Leah's helicopter is shot down. She is the only survivor and is rescued by Kell. Kell takes her to his cave (yes, cave!) and nurses her to health. They are in constant danger of being found by the Taliban.
This was a fun book to read. A little intense in the romance - actually a bit Stockholm Syndrome for me in a way because of the circumstances. Leah's damaged goods because of a previous sham of a marriage. She is skittish around men but finds herself attracted to Kell. Kell realizes that Leah shows signs of abuse and allows her to lead the way. I enjoyed watching these two fall in love and work together to get back to the camp.
Nice happy ever after, too. A perfect book to read by the pool, beach, or summer cottage.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for a review copy of this book.
This was a fun book to read. A little intense in the romance - actually a bit Stockholm Syndrome for me in a way because of the circumstances. Leah's damaged goods because of a previous sham of a marriage. She is skittish around men but finds herself attracted to Kell. Kell realizes that Leah shows signs of abuse and allows her to lead the way. I enjoyed watching these two fall in love and work together to get back to the camp.
Nice happy ever after, too. A perfect book to read by the pool, beach, or summer cottage.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for a review copy of this book.
July 28, 2015
Another fantastic Shadow Warriors book that kept me glued to the pages until I finished it. Leah is a helicopter pilot filling in for an injured pilot in the Shadow Squadron at Camp Bravo. She loves what she does, and has an excellent reputation as a pilot. The bad feeling she gets about the latest mission, to pick up a team of SEALs is realized when the chopper is hit by an RPG and goes down. Leah is the only survivor.
Kell is a SEAL sniper, assigned to the area to watch Taliban activity and look for the local leader. He witnesses the attack, but is too late to stop it. He does find Leah and gets her away before the Taliban fighters can find her. He's surprised to discover that the pilot is a woman and takes her to one of the caves that he's made into his shelter and treats her injuries.
I loved the quick connection that Leah and Kell made. Though she was disoriented and in pain when she awoke, Kell's voice made her feel safe. His care and kindness and gentle touch is something she'd never experienced from a man. It also affects her in ways she doesn't understand. Leah is cautious around men. She'd been married for three years to a man who abused her, physically, mentally and emotionally. She's surprised by how easy it is to trust Kell, something in his eyes breaking through her barriers.
Kell had quite a few reactions to Leah. Her beauty hit him first, as he was working to treat her injuries, with a physical attraction he knows can go nowhere. She is an officer and he is enlisted, so a relationship isn't possible. After she is awake and he learns more about her, there is the respect that he he feels because of the job she does. And after she awakens from a nightmare, he discovers a feeling of protectiveness, wanting to stop the fear he sees in her eyes. Kell is surprised by the things he is starting to feel, as he'd had no intention of getting involved with another woman while he's still serving. He'd been married before and his wife couldn't handle the long separations and danger of his job.
Because of the presence of a large number of Taliban, it isn't possible to get a chopper in to rescue Leah right away. Over the next few days as Leah heals, they slowly get to know each other. I loved Kell's sensitivity to Leah. From some things she has said, he suspects what her past holds, and he's horrified when something he says brings on a flashback. I loved seeing how an event from his own past helps him figure out what to do when he is with her. He's slowly able to show her what an incredible woman she really is. Thanks to him, Leah begins to feel more confident in herself on a personal level. Her heart and soul begin to heal, and she finds herself wanting to trust him with her body as well. Even there, his sensitivity has him waiting for her, never pushing her for more than she's ready for.
When their location stops being secure, they have to leave the safety of the cave and head for a safer area. I loved this section of the book. The descriptions of the area they traveled through were vivid, and I could easily picture it as I read. The intensity of their attempts to avoid the growing number of Taliban kept me riveted as they got closer to their destination. I enjoyed the brief mention of Khat from Taking Fire, and the stop at the cave she used for so long. I loved the way they met up with Kell's SEAL team, and the descriptions of who they were. Once they arrive back on base, Kell and Leah have to be careful not to give away their relationship any time they meet.
Throughout the first part of the book Leah's ex-husband was hovering in the background. Though he pretends to be anxious for her return, in reality he is planning to blame the crash on her. He is looking for a way to destroy her career. Kell and Leah are worried about what he might do and Kell enlists the help of his brother SEALs in watching out for her. We also see that Hayden's abuses have continued. When his latest victim comes out to Leah with her plans to press charges, Leah realizes that it's time for her to come forward also. She's afraid, but with Kell's support she is determined to make sure Hayden is punished. I loved seeing how the other SEALs also were behind her, and their efforts to help. Leah also has to deal with her father, a man who would easily win the award for worst father. His indifference to her and support of Hayden was just sickening. I was really waiting for him to get what was coming to him, though what he got was not what I expected. That confrontation was really intense and I loved seeing Leah stand up to him. What happened next was nerve wracking and seeing Kell and Clutch in action was amazing.
The ending was fantastic, with Leah healing physically and emotionally. I loved the way that she and Kell kept in touch while they were apart and they continued to learn about each other. Their trip to Kentucky to see his parents was sweet and his two brothers were great. It was terrific to see Leah and Kell talk about their future and what they wanted. I loved learning something new about Kell and his dreams. I was a bit surprised at Leah's choice but happy that she had the confidence to make it and know that Kell would support her in it.
Kell is a SEAL sniper, assigned to the area to watch Taliban activity and look for the local leader. He witnesses the attack, but is too late to stop it. He does find Leah and gets her away before the Taliban fighters can find her. He's surprised to discover that the pilot is a woman and takes her to one of the caves that he's made into his shelter and treats her injuries.
I loved the quick connection that Leah and Kell made. Though she was disoriented and in pain when she awoke, Kell's voice made her feel safe. His care and kindness and gentle touch is something she'd never experienced from a man. It also affects her in ways she doesn't understand. Leah is cautious around men. She'd been married for three years to a man who abused her, physically, mentally and emotionally. She's surprised by how easy it is to trust Kell, something in his eyes breaking through her barriers.
Kell had quite a few reactions to Leah. Her beauty hit him first, as he was working to treat her injuries, with a physical attraction he knows can go nowhere. She is an officer and he is enlisted, so a relationship isn't possible. After she is awake and he learns more about her, there is the respect that he he feels because of the job she does. And after she awakens from a nightmare, he discovers a feeling of protectiveness, wanting to stop the fear he sees in her eyes. Kell is surprised by the things he is starting to feel, as he'd had no intention of getting involved with another woman while he's still serving. He'd been married before and his wife couldn't handle the long separations and danger of his job.
Because of the presence of a large number of Taliban, it isn't possible to get a chopper in to rescue Leah right away. Over the next few days as Leah heals, they slowly get to know each other. I loved Kell's sensitivity to Leah. From some things she has said, he suspects what her past holds, and he's horrified when something he says brings on a flashback. I loved seeing how an event from his own past helps him figure out what to do when he is with her. He's slowly able to show her what an incredible woman she really is. Thanks to him, Leah begins to feel more confident in herself on a personal level. Her heart and soul begin to heal, and she finds herself wanting to trust him with her body as well. Even there, his sensitivity has him waiting for her, never pushing her for more than she's ready for.
When their location stops being secure, they have to leave the safety of the cave and head for a safer area. I loved this section of the book. The descriptions of the area they traveled through were vivid, and I could easily picture it as I read. The intensity of their attempts to avoid the growing number of Taliban kept me riveted as they got closer to their destination. I enjoyed the brief mention of Khat from Taking Fire, and the stop at the cave she used for so long. I loved the way they met up with Kell's SEAL team, and the descriptions of who they were. Once they arrive back on base, Kell and Leah have to be careful not to give away their relationship any time they meet.
Throughout the first part of the book Leah's ex-husband was hovering in the background. Though he pretends to be anxious for her return, in reality he is planning to blame the crash on her. He is looking for a way to destroy her career. Kell and Leah are worried about what he might do and Kell enlists the help of his brother SEALs in watching out for her. We also see that Hayden's abuses have continued. When his latest victim comes out to Leah with her plans to press charges, Leah realizes that it's time for her to come forward also. She's afraid, but with Kell's support she is determined to make sure Hayden is punished. I loved seeing how the other SEALs also were behind her, and their efforts to help. Leah also has to deal with her father, a man who would easily win the award for worst father. His indifference to her and support of Hayden was just sickening. I was really waiting for him to get what was coming to him, though what he got was not what I expected. That confrontation was really intense and I loved seeing Leah stand up to him. What happened next was nerve wracking and seeing Kell and Clutch in action was amazing.
The ending was fantastic, with Leah healing physically and emotionally. I loved the way that she and Kell kept in touch while they were apart and they continued to learn about each other. Their trip to Kentucky to see his parents was sweet and his two brothers were great. It was terrific to see Leah and Kell talk about their future and what they wanted. I loved learning something new about Kell and his dreams. I was a bit surprised at Leah's choice but happy that she had the confidence to make it and know that Kell would support her in it.
April 15, 2015
Kell, military sniper, rescues Leah, sole survivor of military helicopter crash in the hills of Afghanistan.
Leah is a leery around men, she was in an abusive marriage with her husband being a senior officer. There is obvious romantic interest between Kell and Leah but Kell recognizes Leah's actions as an abused woman and gives Leah the room to come to him.
The abusive husband uses the situation to plot revenge on Leah as well as abuse other woman under his command. I really hated his character.
Leah has a lot of emotional baggage, not just her ex-husband but a neglectful career focused father and the loss of her brother and mother. I also found Leah's father extremely unlikable.
I enjoyed the development of Leah's and Kell's relationship but had only a slight character connection. As the plot thickens around Leah's ex, my interest all together waned. Kell's character kept me going.
In the end, I found Running Fire an okay, Military, contemporary romance.
I received this ARC copy of Running Fire from Harlequin - HQN Books in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication April 28, 2015.
Written by: Lindsay McKenna
Series: Shadow Warriors
Sequence in Series: 8
Page Count: 384 pages
Publisher: HQN Books
Publication Date: April 28, 2015
Rating: 3 Stars
ISBN-10: 0373788932
ISBN-13: 978-0373788934
Genre: Military | Contemporary | Romance
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews and More Check out: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Leah is a leery around men, she was in an abusive marriage with her husband being a senior officer. There is obvious romantic interest between Kell and Leah but Kell recognizes Leah's actions as an abused woman and gives Leah the room to come to him.
The abusive husband uses the situation to plot revenge on Leah as well as abuse other woman under his command. I really hated his character.
Leah has a lot of emotional baggage, not just her ex-husband but a neglectful career focused father and the loss of her brother and mother. I also found Leah's father extremely unlikable.
I enjoyed the development of Leah's and Kell's relationship but had only a slight character connection. As the plot thickens around Leah's ex, my interest all together waned. Kell's character kept me going.
In the end, I found Running Fire an okay, Military, contemporary romance.
I received this ARC copy of Running Fire from Harlequin - HQN Books in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication April 28, 2015.
Written by: Lindsay McKenna
Series: Shadow Warriors
Sequence in Series: 8
Page Count: 384 pages
Publisher: HQN Books
Publication Date: April 28, 2015
Rating: 3 Stars
ISBN-10: 0373788932
ISBN-13: 978-0373788934
Genre: Military | Contemporary | Romance
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews and More Check out: http://tometender.blogspot.com
August 1, 2015
McKenna has created another winning tale! Her vivid action packed story kept me on pins and needles throughout. I could easily picture myself in the Hindu Kush alongside the characters. I could really feel the intensity of the battles and skirmishes. McKenna paints the scenery like a 3D mural that readers can walk through. You really get immersed in the dire situations that the characters find themselves in. I like how McKenna uses acronyms and short form terms after first defining them for the reader. It really gives a feel for the characters and the action they live with in their daily lives.
But this is so much more than simply a military romance. McKenna’s hard hitting, emotionally infused tale takes you on a whole other journey. McKenna tackles many forms of abuse in a very in your face yet tactful manner. The contrast of darkness and light, good and evil, friend and foe come from many corners in this multifaceted tale.
You really get to know the main characters on a physical, mental and emotional level. Leah’s past is so deep that her strength to rise above made her even more remarkable. The gradual emotional recovery made it all the more believable. Kell was your typical navy seal with a kick. Being in touch with his emotional side made him all the more desirable.
As a whole, this was a fantastic read. This novel is easily read as a standalone but also ties in well to the past novels in the series. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to those who enjoy a good romantic suspense.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
But this is so much more than simply a military romance. McKenna’s hard hitting, emotionally infused tale takes you on a whole other journey. McKenna tackles many forms of abuse in a very in your face yet tactful manner. The contrast of darkness and light, good and evil, friend and foe come from many corners in this multifaceted tale.
You really get to know the main characters on a physical, mental and emotional level. Leah’s past is so deep that her strength to rise above made her even more remarkable. The gradual emotional recovery made it all the more believable. Kell was your typical navy seal with a kick. Being in touch with his emotional side made him all the more desirable.
As a whole, this was a fantastic read. This novel is easily read as a standalone but also ties in well to the past novels in the series. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to those who enjoy a good romantic suspense.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2015
Summary from Goodreads:
"Temporarily assigned to the Shadow Squadron in a troubled region of Afghanistan, Chief Warrant Officer and pilot Leah Mackenzie is no stranger to conflict—even if most of her physical and emotional scars are courtesy of her vicious ex. Still, she's got a bad feeling about picking up a team of stranded SEALs. A feeling that's all too justified once enemy fire hits their helicopter and all hell breaks loose…
SEAL Kell Ballard's goal was to get the injured pilot out of harm's way and find shelter deep in the labyrinth of caves. It's a place of dark intimacy, where Leah finds unexpected safety in a man's arms. Where prohibited attraction burns brightly. And where they'll hide until the time comes to face the enemy outside…and the enemy within their ranks."
My Thoughts:
Romantic suspense is one of those genres that I always want to read more of but hardly ever do. I love when it is done right and I cannot stop turning the pages. While I went into reading this book assuming that it was going to be that type of read, what I found was a more slow burning romance that I couldn't help but appreciate for other reasons. Running Fire throws the two main characters into a tough and intense situation where they are relying on only themselves to survive and get out of enemy territory. Almost instantly they realize that there is also a deep attraction between the two of them. But it isn't the danger that is keeping them apart from exploring their feelings. Instead, it was Leah's past and emotional scars that they are forced to deal with right away. The author did a really great job of not glossing over all of the horrific things that Leah went through with her first marriage. For me it made what was growing between her and Kell all of the better. At first I struggled with their instant attraction/feelings. But then as I thought about it, it was really the intensity of their entire experience that brought those feelings out and they both couldn't help but to given in a little bit to their feelings for one another. Sigh! I liked that and I liked what they found together with one other. It took its' time building as Leah needed for them to take it slowly and you don't see that enough in romance books in my opinion. I liked that they didn't just jump right into a relationship even though they both wanted to.
I did have a few issues connecting to this book at times. I think it was mainly because I wanted Leah to stand up for herself. I don't even know if that is realistic with everything that she had gone through but I wanted it all of the same. (The quirks of the reader, I know). She left her ex-husband which shows she had some strong grit to her but she didn't always show it in the book. I would have liked to see more of her stronger side and I think this caused me to not quite connect to the story like I had hoped. I also expected this to have a bit more suspense to it which for me even despite the dire circumstances they found themselves in didn't happen until later in the book. And then it really was a page turner and I needed to know what was going to happen.
Overall, I thought that this was a good read even though I had a few issues with it. I definitely want to continue on with this series and see what happens next. I would love to see if Kell and Leah are included in future books as it would be nice to get a peek at their relationship as it continues to grow. I think that romance readers will probably enjoy this one. Recommended with a few hesitations.
Bottom Line: A good read and I will be reading more by this author.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher for a TLC book tour. Thoughts are my own!
"Temporarily assigned to the Shadow Squadron in a troubled region of Afghanistan, Chief Warrant Officer and pilot Leah Mackenzie is no stranger to conflict—even if most of her physical and emotional scars are courtesy of her vicious ex. Still, she's got a bad feeling about picking up a team of stranded SEALs. A feeling that's all too justified once enemy fire hits their helicopter and all hell breaks loose…
SEAL Kell Ballard's goal was to get the injured pilot out of harm's way and find shelter deep in the labyrinth of caves. It's a place of dark intimacy, where Leah finds unexpected safety in a man's arms. Where prohibited attraction burns brightly. And where they'll hide until the time comes to face the enemy outside…and the enemy within their ranks."
My Thoughts:
Romantic suspense is one of those genres that I always want to read more of but hardly ever do. I love when it is done right and I cannot stop turning the pages. While I went into reading this book assuming that it was going to be that type of read, what I found was a more slow burning romance that I couldn't help but appreciate for other reasons. Running Fire throws the two main characters into a tough and intense situation where they are relying on only themselves to survive and get out of enemy territory. Almost instantly they realize that there is also a deep attraction between the two of them. But it isn't the danger that is keeping them apart from exploring their feelings. Instead, it was Leah's past and emotional scars that they are forced to deal with right away. The author did a really great job of not glossing over all of the horrific things that Leah went through with her first marriage. For me it made what was growing between her and Kell all of the better. At first I struggled with their instant attraction/feelings. But then as I thought about it, it was really the intensity of their entire experience that brought those feelings out and they both couldn't help but to given in a little bit to their feelings for one another. Sigh! I liked that and I liked what they found together with one other. It took its' time building as Leah needed for them to take it slowly and you don't see that enough in romance books in my opinion. I liked that they didn't just jump right into a relationship even though they both wanted to.
I did have a few issues connecting to this book at times. I think it was mainly because I wanted Leah to stand up for herself. I don't even know if that is realistic with everything that she had gone through but I wanted it all of the same. (The quirks of the reader, I know). She left her ex-husband which shows she had some strong grit to her but she didn't always show it in the book. I would have liked to see more of her stronger side and I think this caused me to not quite connect to the story like I had hoped. I also expected this to have a bit more suspense to it which for me even despite the dire circumstances they found themselves in didn't happen until later in the book. And then it really was a page turner and I needed to know what was going to happen.
Overall, I thought that this was a good read even though I had a few issues with it. I definitely want to continue on with this series and see what happens next. I would love to see if Kell and Leah are included in future books as it would be nice to get a peek at their relationship as it continues to grow. I think that romance readers will probably enjoy this one. Recommended with a few hesitations.
Bottom Line: A good read and I will be reading more by this author.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher for a TLC book tour. Thoughts are my own!
April 29, 2015
Running Fire by author Lindsay McKenna is the first book that I have read by this awesome author. This was a fantastic, action packed and emotional story. I was completely drawn in from the very first page and read it in one day!
The story is set in Afganistan and I was in awe of the excellent way in which the author described the setting. I could honestly see, feel and almost hear every detail. The main characters, Kell, a SEAL and Leah, a Shadow pilot stole my heart immediately.
Leah is brave to say the least. But she is hiding a secret. Kell, is extremely swoon worthy and he makes it his mission to help Leah in every way that he can. But first he must keep them alive in enemy territory. Will Kell be able to? Will Kell break through Leah’s tough armor before it’s too late?
Running fire was one of the best books I have read so far this year. The writing flowed perfectly and the layers of these amazing characters will endear them to you for quite some time. I personally cannot wait to read more from this amazing author!
*I was given an ARC copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story is set in Afganistan and I was in awe of the excellent way in which the author described the setting. I could honestly see, feel and almost hear every detail. The main characters, Kell, a SEAL and Leah, a Shadow pilot stole my heart immediately.
Leah is brave to say the least. But she is hiding a secret. Kell, is extremely swoon worthy and he makes it his mission to help Leah in every way that he can. But first he must keep them alive in enemy territory. Will Kell be able to? Will Kell break through Leah’s tough armor before it’s too late?
Running fire was one of the best books I have read so far this year. The writing flowed perfectly and the layers of these amazing characters will endear them to you for quite some time. I personally cannot wait to read more from this amazing author!
*I was given an ARC copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2015
This was a fabulous page turner that kept me reading from the first page. Although Shadow squadron pilot Leah Mackenzie is hell on wheels in the air she is a very guarded person on the ground. Her life changes dramatically, in so many ways when she is rescued by SEAL Kell Ballard. Finally she has support and blossoms with him at her side.
You'll HATE her abusive, demonic, jealous ex-husband Major Hayden Grant. Not too far behind is disgust and contempt for her father, Colonel David Mackenzie who basically ignored and disregarded her from birth.
Come along and cheer for Leah as she finds her back bone, stands up for herself and other victim of abuse and grabs on to the love she deserves with Kell.
You'll HATE her abusive, demonic, jealous ex-husband Major Hayden Grant. Not too far behind is disgust and contempt for her father, Colonel David Mackenzie who basically ignored and disregarded her from birth.
Come along and cheer for Leah as she finds her back bone, stands up for herself and other victim of abuse and grabs on to the love she deserves with Kell.
February 27, 2015
Oh, the melodrama! I've not read a single book by this author where the heroine wasn't brutally raped at least once.
September 18, 2015
(Please note: This story deals with domestic abuse and rape. Both are addressed in my review. Please take this into consideration before reading further and/or purchasing this book.)
There wasn't a whole lot of exchange (friendly or otherwise) between the Americans and the Taliban, but there was this intensity to this story that left me on the edge of my seat. Because while Kell and Leah holed up in caves, they both knew that danger awaited them and I don't just mean on their journey to Bravo but when they got there as well.
I really loved watching Kell and Leah's relationship grow. Leah had issues before she landed in Kell's arms, and they weren't small either. Distrust in men, daddy issues, physical abuse, and spousal rape. You'd never know it from Ms. McKenna's description of her though, but then you're not supposed to judge a book by its cover.
The first time Leah yelled in her sleep, my heart dropped. It seems to do that a lot when I read these kinds of stories. I thought Kell would be more cautious around her, maybe treat her with kid gloves or avoid her altogether. He didn't. The more he learned about Leah, the more he wanted to protect her, keep her safe, keep her with him. And the more he learned about Leah's ex-husband, a pilot who was out to get her at any cost, the more he wanted to run his fist through the bastard's face.
And I wanted him to have that chance. Her ex deserved that and so much more for what he did to Leah during their married years: using her to forward his military career, threatening her into agreeing, raping her if she didn't comply. I hated him and I didn't meet him until further on in this story. By then, I wanted him to meet then fists of Kell's SEAL brothers so he could understand how you don't go abusing people weaker than you just because you can.
Then there was her ex's attempted rape of another female pilot. Leah had already been through so much by this point in the story that I wished Ms. McKenna hadn't written this turn of events. I almost quit reading because I wasn't sure I wanted to read one more heinous act her ex committed. I really didn't. I left my reader on the bed for a few hours, hoping I'd actually forget. But I didn't. I went back and finished it. I needed Leah to stand tall in that instant. I needed to see what she would do. Would she cower and ignore the other woman's plight? Or would she stand up with the other woman and bring her ex to justice?
She did herself and Kell proud by taking that chance, risking her career, and finally--yes, finally!--standing up to that bastard. I cheered out loud for her bravery because it was a long time coming, and I anxiously waited for him to get what was coming to him.
Through all of this, Kell was Leah's rock. The men in her life had failed her and had caused her not to trust men in general, but Kell showed her that her trust in him wasn't misplaced, that he'd earned the right to have it, that he would protect it like he would her. His freakishly accurate ability to read Leah helped his cause. For all that he could see in her, he never pushed for more than she was willing to give. His gentleness and concern enabled her to trust him with her body, her heart, and her brokenness.
It is rare that I read an active military duty romance. Most are post military duty, dealing with PTSD and the soldier's return to civilian life. This is one of a few active military duty romances I have read, and I am so glad I did. I love that Ms. McKenna didn't shy away from hard to deal with issues. I'm glad she didn't downplay them in favor for romance, and that she paired a patient, caring man with a woman who needed and would appreciate both qualities in him.
A terrific story from beginning to end, this is one I'll read again and one I'll definitely recommend.
4.5*
(Received from TLC Books for an honest review)
There wasn't a whole lot of exchange (friendly or otherwise) between the Americans and the Taliban, but there was this intensity to this story that left me on the edge of my seat. Because while Kell and Leah holed up in caves, they both knew that danger awaited them and I don't just mean on their journey to Bravo but when they got there as well.
I really loved watching Kell and Leah's relationship grow. Leah had issues before she landed in Kell's arms, and they weren't small either. Distrust in men, daddy issues, physical abuse, and spousal rape. You'd never know it from Ms. McKenna's description of her though, but then you're not supposed to judge a book by its cover.
The first time Leah yelled in her sleep, my heart dropped. It seems to do that a lot when I read these kinds of stories. I thought Kell would be more cautious around her, maybe treat her with kid gloves or avoid her altogether. He didn't. The more he learned about Leah, the more he wanted to protect her, keep her safe, keep her with him. And the more he learned about Leah's ex-husband, a pilot who was out to get her at any cost, the more he wanted to run his fist through the bastard's face.
And I wanted him to have that chance. Her ex deserved that and so much more for what he did to Leah during their married years: using her to forward his military career, threatening her into agreeing, raping her if she didn't comply. I hated him and I didn't meet him until further on in this story. By then, I wanted him to meet then fists of Kell's SEAL brothers so he could understand how you don't go abusing people weaker than you just because you can.
Then there was her ex's attempted rape of another female pilot. Leah had already been through so much by this point in the story that I wished Ms. McKenna hadn't written this turn of events. I almost quit reading because I wasn't sure I wanted to read one more heinous act her ex committed. I really didn't. I left my reader on the bed for a few hours, hoping I'd actually forget. But I didn't. I went back and finished it. I needed Leah to stand tall in that instant. I needed to see what she would do. Would she cower and ignore the other woman's plight? Or would she stand up with the other woman and bring her ex to justice?
She did herself and Kell proud by taking that chance, risking her career, and finally--yes, finally!--standing up to that bastard. I cheered out loud for her bravery because it was a long time coming, and I anxiously waited for him to get what was coming to him.
Through all of this, Kell was Leah's rock. The men in her life had failed her and had caused her not to trust men in general, but Kell showed her that her trust in him wasn't misplaced, that he'd earned the right to have it, that he would protect it like he would her. His freakishly accurate ability to read Leah helped his cause. For all that he could see in her, he never pushed for more than she was willing to give. His gentleness and concern enabled her to trust him with her body, her heart, and her brokenness.
It is rare that I read an active military duty romance. Most are post military duty, dealing with PTSD and the soldier's return to civilian life. This is one of a few active military duty romances I have read, and I am so glad I did. I love that Ms. McKenna didn't shy away from hard to deal with issues. I'm glad she didn't downplay them in favor for romance, and that she paired a patient, caring man with a woman who needed and would appreciate both qualities in him.
A terrific story from beginning to end, this is one I'll read again and one I'll definitely recommend.
4.5*
(Received from TLC Books for an honest review)
April 15, 2015
Running Fire is a romance about an Army helicopter pilot and a Navy SEAL. The pilot’s helicopter is shot down while going to pick someone up in a valley in Afghanistan, and she’s the only survivor. She’s rescued by the Navy SEAL and they have to hang out in a cave for a few days while she heals and he does recon. Eventually they are surrounded by Taliban and they have to sneak out the back and head to another cave.
She has PTSD and has horrible nightmares which are only held at bay by being cuddled, so obviously eventually they kiss and have sex. She has had sex before but it was only with her rape-y husband and a couple of rape-y one-night-stands in college, so it totally doesn’t count and she’s practically a virgin. He gets to teach her everything she knows about being pleasured as a woman. Between that and the caves it’s actually quite like The Valley of Horses, now that I think about it.
They play cave hopscotch for a while and the reader learns that there are lots of caves in Afghanistan, and most of them have water in them, and some of them have supplies left by other US military types, and some of them have Taliban, but that’s okay, you can shoot them and steal their clothes and horses.
The caves without Taliban are great for having sex in. Sexy cave sex.
Eventually they make it back to base and after that it’s much less interesting. I would have read more about the walking and the caves and the romance, but then I did really enjoy The Lord of the Rings.
They finally end up back in his ol’ Kentucky home, where they eat cookies and hold hands and go for a walk in the woods and decide to buy a big house and she’ll stay home and have babies instead of applying for the local hospital helicopter pilot job. (Buying a big house and quitting work before you get pregnant is a recipe for tempting-fate induced infertility if you ask me. I know a couple who bought a big house before they were pregnant, and then they couldn’t get pregnant and they ended up getting divorced. True story.)
(That was not a spoiler because this is a romance book. Okay fine, I will hide this review.)
This book had the biggest body count of any romance I’ve ever read: the three people in the helicopter, three Taliban, two more Taliban, six more Taliban (I think), plus that other guy, so that’s fifteen. I don’t think I missed any. But then we are at war.
Running Fire was actually a pretty good read. It could have used some more editing, but the characters were compelling and I enjoyed the chemistry between the leads. The man was supernaturally sensitive and respectful (which was nice after reading The Caves of Steel where the man was basically an angry jerk). I enjoyed the portrayal of enthusiastic consent.
The woman was tough and funny. I thought the portrayals of PTSD and spousal abuse was pretty effective, although I don’t know how realistic they were since I don’t have much knowledge of either.
This was a satisfactory way to while away an afternoon when I was too sick to face the giant Alan Turing book with all the math (Alan Turing: The Enigma.
She has PTSD and has horrible nightmares which are only held at bay by being cuddled, so obviously eventually they kiss and have sex. She has had sex before but it was only with her rape-y husband and a couple of rape-y one-night-stands in college, so it totally doesn’t count and she’s practically a virgin. He gets to teach her everything she knows about being pleasured as a woman. Between that and the caves it’s actually quite like The Valley of Horses, now that I think about it.
They play cave hopscotch for a while and the reader learns that there are lots of caves in Afghanistan, and most of them have water in them, and some of them have supplies left by other US military types, and some of them have Taliban, but that’s okay, you can shoot them and steal their clothes and horses.
The caves without Taliban are great for having sex in. Sexy cave sex.
Eventually they make it back to base and after that it’s much less interesting. I would have read more about the walking and the caves and the romance, but then I did really enjoy The Lord of the Rings.
They finally end up back in his ol’ Kentucky home, where they eat cookies and hold hands and go for a walk in the woods and decide to buy a big house and she’ll stay home and have babies instead of applying for the local hospital helicopter pilot job. (Buying a big house and quitting work before you get pregnant is a recipe for tempting-fate induced infertility if you ask me. I know a couple who bought a big house before they were pregnant, and then they couldn’t get pregnant and they ended up getting divorced. True story.)
(That was not a spoiler because this is a romance book. Okay fine, I will hide this review.)
This book had the biggest body count of any romance I’ve ever read: the three people in the helicopter, three Taliban, two more Taliban, six more Taliban (I think), plus that other guy, so that’s fifteen. I don’t think I missed any. But then we are at war.
Running Fire was actually a pretty good read. It could have used some more editing, but the characters were compelling and I enjoyed the chemistry between the leads. The man was supernaturally sensitive and respectful (which was nice after reading The Caves of Steel where the man was basically an angry jerk). I enjoyed the portrayal of enthusiastic consent.
The woman was tough and funny. I thought the portrayals of PTSD and spousal abuse was pretty effective, although I don’t know how realistic they were since I don’t have much knowledge of either.
This was a satisfactory way to while away an afternoon when I was too sick to face the giant Alan Turing book with all the math (Alan Turing: The Enigma.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2015
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book
I haven't read a lot of Lindsay McKenna's work and I just thought I would give her a try. Running Fire is Book 8 of her Shadow Warriors Series and it made for an intense read..
Running Fire was about more than two connecting souls, it was also about the games people play to get what they want no matter who they hurt. It's about surviving abuse and recognizing it.. Sometimes that is harder than actually surviving.
Leah Mackenzie has lived her entire life as the spare.. pretty rough when the "heir" doesn't really exist. She has lived under her father's iron fist and her only true escape is when she learned how to fly. But even then she was trying to make him proud and went to work for the military.. Her need for approval lead her into a disastrous marriage with a true monster.. disguised as the wholesome all American and unfortunately one of her superiors.. Temporary assigned to the Shadow Warriors, Leah is co-pilot on an extraction when all hell breaks loose. As the sole survivor she shouldn't last long.. except Kell Ballard was close enough...
When Kell Ballard saw the helicopter explode he doubted there would be survivors but he waited to make sure and when he saw one daring soul escape the wreckage he immediately went in to help. Discovering that he was saving a very beautiful woman set him just a little aback. But he didn't have time to appreciate her. They were in enemy territory and Leah needed medical attention.
A few short days hidden in a cave completely changed their lives. While they were struggling to stay hidden, scum of the earth, ex-hubby was demanding Leah be "rescued" right now *stomp foot*. Only he wanted to make sure she was punished.. he was sure he could make this disaster her fault. See, never mess with the SEALS.. you just aren't gonna win.
As Leah and Kell struggle to survive they form the kind of bond only two people who go through hell together can even dream of having. Throw in a healthy case of hormones and things get really interesting. But what they really had was two individuals that were bone deep decent. Sure Leah had been crushed in life by the men who were supposed to have loved her but she knows decent when she sees it. And by leaning on Kell, Leah learns how to really fight back.
Ohhhh there were some true moments of joy in this book. Ironic really when the real enemy wasn't those found on the battlefield or amongst the caves of Afghanistan, nope the really enemy is the snake in the midst..
I do so love when retribution came!
And when love, real love followed!
Great Job
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Running Fire, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on April 28, 2015
I haven't read a lot of Lindsay McKenna's work and I just thought I would give her a try. Running Fire is Book 8 of her Shadow Warriors Series and it made for an intense read..
Running Fire was about more than two connecting souls, it was also about the games people play to get what they want no matter who they hurt. It's about surviving abuse and recognizing it.. Sometimes that is harder than actually surviving.
Leah Mackenzie has lived her entire life as the spare.. pretty rough when the "heir" doesn't really exist. She has lived under her father's iron fist and her only true escape is when she learned how to fly. But even then she was trying to make him proud and went to work for the military.. Her need for approval lead her into a disastrous marriage with a true monster.. disguised as the wholesome all American and unfortunately one of her superiors.. Temporary assigned to the Shadow Warriors, Leah is co-pilot on an extraction when all hell breaks loose. As the sole survivor she shouldn't last long.. except Kell Ballard was close enough...
When Kell Ballard saw the helicopter explode he doubted there would be survivors but he waited to make sure and when he saw one daring soul escape the wreckage he immediately went in to help. Discovering that he was saving a very beautiful woman set him just a little aback. But he didn't have time to appreciate her. They were in enemy territory and Leah needed medical attention.
A few short days hidden in a cave completely changed their lives. While they were struggling to stay hidden, scum of the earth, ex-hubby was demanding Leah be "rescued" right now *stomp foot*. Only he wanted to make sure she was punished.. he was sure he could make this disaster her fault. See, never mess with the SEALS.. you just aren't gonna win.
As Leah and Kell struggle to survive they form the kind of bond only two people who go through hell together can even dream of having. Throw in a healthy case of hormones and things get really interesting. But what they really had was two individuals that were bone deep decent. Sure Leah had been crushed in life by the men who were supposed to have loved her but she knows decent when she sees it. And by leaning on Kell, Leah learns how to really fight back.
Ohhhh there were some true moments of joy in this book. Ironic really when the real enemy wasn't those found on the battlefield or amongst the caves of Afghanistan, nope the really enemy is the snake in the midst..
I do so love when retribution came!
And when love, real love followed!
Great Job
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Running Fire, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on April 28, 2015
May 11, 2015
ntense and emotional military romance.
Leah has collected the broken pieces of her life, from a difficult childhood to her abusive ex husband, and made herself a career in the military. She is capable and professional pilot on the outside, but inside, she is still suffering from her father's neglect and the brutal abuse during her marriage.
Kell is a SEAL sniper, he is a healer by nature, loving, caring, loyal, protective, and a true hero. Kell's parents raised him and his brothers in the rural mountains of Kentucky to be upstanding men, who respect women, and treat them as equals.
After rescuing Leah from the deadly attack on the mountains, Kell soon realizes, the nightmares Leah is having, has nothing to do with the military attack, but comes from somewhere deeper from her history. As Kell takes care of Leah's outside wounds in the caves of the mountains, the form a connection and friendship. In the intense situation, where danger is constantly present, Kell's caring, loving attitude helps Leah to share her past, and the abuse she has suffered from. Long conversations in the caves, forms a trust between Kell and Leah, and Kell's healing hands, patience, honesty, tenderness and kindness don't only take care of the wounds on her skin, but also starts a healing process in her heart and soul. For a short time, the caves become their 'home', their haven in the hell. The form a team, where they work together to escape the mountains, and the Taliban.
After the escape from the mountains, back in the base, Leah has to face her past, her father, and the power abusing ex-husband. The events that follow, will change the future for Leah and Kell, as suddenly both of them are at the crossroads of their lives.
Even though the danger and threat of the war, and Leah's past, is continual, the main focus of the story is the beautiful, fragile relationship forming between Leah and Kell. Leah's wakening to the sensual pleasures of being a woman creates highly emotional scenes. Her truly broken soul is pieced together by Kell, and by the love and acceptance of his family. I was surprised how many similarities this story has with the previous book in the series, Taking Fire. This is a book eight in a series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel.
~ Four Spoons
Leah has collected the broken pieces of her life, from a difficult childhood to her abusive ex husband, and made herself a career in the military. She is capable and professional pilot on the outside, but inside, she is still suffering from her father's neglect and the brutal abuse during her marriage.
Kell is a SEAL sniper, he is a healer by nature, loving, caring, loyal, protective, and a true hero. Kell's parents raised him and his brothers in the rural mountains of Kentucky to be upstanding men, who respect women, and treat them as equals.
After rescuing Leah from the deadly attack on the mountains, Kell soon realizes, the nightmares Leah is having, has nothing to do with the military attack, but comes from somewhere deeper from her history. As Kell takes care of Leah's outside wounds in the caves of the mountains, the form a connection and friendship. In the intense situation, where danger is constantly present, Kell's caring, loving attitude helps Leah to share her past, and the abuse she has suffered from. Long conversations in the caves, forms a trust between Kell and Leah, and Kell's healing hands, patience, honesty, tenderness and kindness don't only take care of the wounds on her skin, but also starts a healing process in her heart and soul. For a short time, the caves become their 'home', their haven in the hell. The form a team, where they work together to escape the mountains, and the Taliban.
After the escape from the mountains, back in the base, Leah has to face her past, her father, and the power abusing ex-husband. The events that follow, will change the future for Leah and Kell, as suddenly both of them are at the crossroads of their lives.
Even though the danger and threat of the war, and Leah's past, is continual, the main focus of the story is the beautiful, fragile relationship forming between Leah and Kell. Leah's wakening to the sensual pleasures of being a woman creates highly emotional scenes. Her truly broken soul is pieced together by Kell, and by the love and acceptance of his family. I was surprised how many similarities this story has with the previous book in the series, Taking Fire. This is a book eight in a series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel.
~ Four Spoons
May 30, 2015
In RUNNING FIRE, a brilliant addition to Lindsay McKenna’s Shadow Warrior series, I was immediately transported into the thick of the action in the Hindu Kush Mountains of Afghanistan. While flying a helicopter on a mission to retrieve 2 Navy SEALs Chief Warrant officer and Shadow pilot, Leah Mackenzie and her team crash due an enemy attack by RPGs. She is the sole survivor who is rescued by Kell Ballard, a SEAL sniper and combat medic. Although Leah has been physically, sexually, emotionally and mentally abused in the past, she senses that Kell’s hands are for healing, NOT harming. For the first time in almost forever, she feels safe and protected while being taken care of by this astoundingly GENTLE man.
At age 16, Leah’s Army colonel father taught her to fly. When flying in the “arms of the sky” she feels free and sheltered like in the loving arms of a mother. Her mother died when she was only 8 years old so she hasn’t experienced this in decades. After suffering horrific abuse for 3 terrifying years, Leah is ultimately divorced from her violent, evil, vindictive ex-husband, Army Major Hayden Grant. He used her to climb the military ladder and became a substitute son to her father. His son (her brother) had died when he was only 9.
Intuitive SEAL Kell gradually penetrates Leah’s heavily guarded protective walls. Over time he earns her trust and uncovers within Leah a beautiful, confident, intelligent, resilient powerhouse. He encourages her to spread her wings, reclaim her inner strength and rebuild her self-esteem. Kell shows her that she is cherished and valued when she’s on the ground, too. With his unconditional support she’ll thrive.
Unbeknownst to Hayden, the SEALS now have Leah’s 6. They respect, defend and protect her. She has been readily accepted into their family and is no longer alone. Realizing she’s been given a second chance, with a renewed sense of purpose Leah faces her abuser/attacker, her ex-husband Hayden, head on. Kell’s guidance and enduring love enabled Leah to have the courage to prevail over her past and look forward to creating an exciting future at Kell’s side, as an equal. Here you learn to never doubt that following your heart has its ample rewards!
At age 16, Leah’s Army colonel father taught her to fly. When flying in the “arms of the sky” she feels free and sheltered like in the loving arms of a mother. Her mother died when she was only 8 years old so she hasn’t experienced this in decades. After suffering horrific abuse for 3 terrifying years, Leah is ultimately divorced from her violent, evil, vindictive ex-husband, Army Major Hayden Grant. He used her to climb the military ladder and became a substitute son to her father. His son (her brother) had died when he was only 9.
Intuitive SEAL Kell gradually penetrates Leah’s heavily guarded protective walls. Over time he earns her trust and uncovers within Leah a beautiful, confident, intelligent, resilient powerhouse. He encourages her to spread her wings, reclaim her inner strength and rebuild her self-esteem. Kell shows her that she is cherished and valued when she’s on the ground, too. With his unconditional support she’ll thrive.
Unbeknownst to Hayden, the SEALS now have Leah’s 6. They respect, defend and protect her. She has been readily accepted into their family and is no longer alone. Realizing she’s been given a second chance, with a renewed sense of purpose Leah faces her abuser/attacker, her ex-husband Hayden, head on. Kell’s guidance and enduring love enabled Leah to have the courage to prevail over her past and look forward to creating an exciting future at Kell’s side, as an equal. Here you learn to never doubt that following your heart has its ample rewards!
April 22, 2015
If you know nothing else about me, you need to know that I am a romantic suspense JUNKIE. When I say junkie, I really mean it. If the book also has a super hot military guy as a lead? All in. The plot could be 100% ridiculous and so far fetched and it doesn't matter because I am all the way in. (I could make a super inappropriate sexual pun here but I won't because I'm trying to keep it classy.)
The only thing that could be construed as negative in this review is that Leah is super annoying. I mean, I appreciate that when things basically go tits up, she can do what needs to be done. She's not falling apart during a crisis. But when it comes to her personal life? Oy vey. Kind of a hot mess. And yes, she has legitimate reasons considering her ex-husband was a total abuse douchebag. Understandable. But I think even if she hadn't been married, she'd still be kind of a needy mess when it came to Kell.
And Kell. *swoon* Kell sounds delicious. I'm just putting that out there. I like how despite his own divorce, he's not this hardened nobody-can-love-me guy. He thinks there is someone out there for him he just doesn't know how to reconcile that with his career as a SEAL. Which is understandable.
The story overall was good. It was everything I wanted out of a military romantic suspense novel. Sure, the story seems a little not plausible with a romance going from zero to sixty in a matter of days given the stressful situation, but who cares. That's part of what I love so much about books like this. I also love the side drama with Leah's ex-husband. Yes, we have them weaving their way through Taliban infested territory, dealing with Leah's intimacy issues, but then we have Leah's ex-husband basically trying to ruin her life for his own benefit and that has it's own super great ending. I also love that we have some follow up/ending with Leah and Kell. It feels like their story is squarely finished and you're left wanting to pick up another book by Lindsay McKenna, which is what any author can hope for.
The only thing that could be construed as negative in this review is that Leah is super annoying. I mean, I appreciate that when things basically go tits up, she can do what needs to be done. She's not falling apart during a crisis. But when it comes to her personal life? Oy vey. Kind of a hot mess. And yes, she has legitimate reasons considering her ex-husband was a total abuse douchebag. Understandable. But I think even if she hadn't been married, she'd still be kind of a needy mess when it came to Kell.
And Kell. *swoon* Kell sounds delicious. I'm just putting that out there. I like how despite his own divorce, he's not this hardened nobody-can-love-me guy. He thinks there is someone out there for him he just doesn't know how to reconcile that with his career as a SEAL. Which is understandable.
The story overall was good. It was everything I wanted out of a military romantic suspense novel. Sure, the story seems a little not plausible with a romance going from zero to sixty in a matter of days given the stressful situation, but who cares. That's part of what I love so much about books like this. I also love the side drama with Leah's ex-husband. Yes, we have them weaving their way through Taliban infested territory, dealing with Leah's intimacy issues, but then we have Leah's ex-husband basically trying to ruin her life for his own benefit and that has it's own super great ending. I also love that we have some follow up/ending with Leah and Kell. It feels like their story is squarely finished and you're left wanting to pick up another book by Lindsay McKenna, which is what any author can hope for.
February 25, 2015
This is barely a 3 for me
Kell rescues Leah after the helicopter she was co-piloting crashed in the Afghani hills. They are forced to hide in a cave for sometime before they can make it back to the safety of the base.
Kell kept me reading this book. If it wasn't for his character this would have been a DNF for me. I liked his background, his SEAL experience, and the honor he displayed. Leah's purpose as a character seemed to be that she needed to be the needy one in the couple; and she was just too needy, she lacked inner strength. If she was a secondary character I am not sure I would have ever thought twice about her, and since she was the heroine that is not a good thing.
To me the plot was a reworked version of Taking Fire the previous book in the series. The similarities were striking to me. Both had snipers out on a crucial mission and they witness an event that put another person in danger only to rescue them and administer first aid; and that is not the only similarity. Maybe it was more apparent to me because I read them one after another (one day between) but it only proved to annoy me and not motivate me to read the book. I did push through and I was happy for Kell at the end because I really felt he did deserve an HEA. The plot was not the only problem for me, dialog in this book seemed to be dated and rather strained and awkward. I can't imagine contemporary characters actually talking how Leah and Kell did.
One positive is this is truly a stand alone book in the series. It is book 8 and I have only read the prior book and I did not feel like I was missing a crucial part of the story at any time.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.
Kell rescues Leah after the helicopter she was co-piloting crashed in the Afghani hills. They are forced to hide in a cave for sometime before they can make it back to the safety of the base.
Kell kept me reading this book. If it wasn't for his character this would have been a DNF for me. I liked his background, his SEAL experience, and the honor he displayed. Leah's purpose as a character seemed to be that she needed to be the needy one in the couple; and she was just too needy, she lacked inner strength. If she was a secondary character I am not sure I would have ever thought twice about her, and since she was the heroine that is not a good thing.
To me the plot was a reworked version of Taking Fire the previous book in the series. The similarities were striking to me. Both had snipers out on a crucial mission and they witness an event that put another person in danger only to rescue them and administer first aid; and that is not the only similarity. Maybe it was more apparent to me because I read them one after another (one day between) but it only proved to annoy me and not motivate me to read the book. I did push through and I was happy for Kell at the end because I really felt he did deserve an HEA. The plot was not the only problem for me, dialog in this book seemed to be dated and rather strained and awkward. I can't imagine contemporary characters actually talking how Leah and Kell did.
One positive is this is truly a stand alone book in the series. It is book 8 and I have only read the prior book and I did not feel like I was missing a crucial part of the story at any time.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.
July 25, 2016
Bought this book at a used book store and thought "why not, its only $.50!" Love those cheap buys!
As the other reviewers have said...story about Leah and Kell. Leah a pilot in the military and Kell is a SEAL. I do not want to give the story line in my review but will fill you in on a little bit. Leah's past marriage was awful. It is so hard to understand why some women stay in abusive situations. No judgment towards them but it just hurts me inside. Kell basically shows her "proper" love from a man and rebuilds her ability to love truly for the fist time.
The dialogue between them over halfway through I thought was limited and lacked depth. Once Leah opened up to Kell about her past you really saw both characters blossom. I did struggle a bit in the book around the pages that involved their first time making love. It wasn't that I was offended but that it they did not share much dialogue up to that point. I was kind of surprised it was taking place at that moment in the story only because of Leah's past.
Once they both go back to Bravo (base camp) and Leah had to face her past the story really picks up and I started to enjoy it more.
I enjoy anything military and it was cool to see that both characters shared that connection. Is this book the best romance book I have ever read...no...but it is also not the worst. If you want an adventurous story that has a lovely ending then this is the one for you!!!
XOXOXO!!
As the other reviewers have said...story about Leah and Kell. Leah a pilot in the military and Kell is a SEAL. I do not want to give the story line in my review but will fill you in on a little bit. Leah's past marriage was awful. It is so hard to understand why some women stay in abusive situations. No judgment towards them but it just hurts me inside. Kell basically shows her "proper" love from a man and rebuilds her ability to love truly for the fist time.
The dialogue between them over halfway through I thought was limited and lacked depth. Once Leah opened up to Kell about her past you really saw both characters blossom. I did struggle a bit in the book around the pages that involved their first time making love. It wasn't that I was offended but that it they did not share much dialogue up to that point. I was kind of surprised it was taking place at that moment in the story only because of Leah's past.
Once they both go back to Bravo (base camp) and Leah had to face her past the story really picks up and I started to enjoy it more.
I enjoy anything military and it was cool to see that both characters shared that connection. Is this book the best romance book I have ever read...no...but it is also not the worst. If you want an adventurous story that has a lovely ending then this is the one for you!!!
XOXOXO!!
May 1, 2016
This novel involves an emotionally/physically injured female pilot being "rescued" by a SEAL working in Afghanistan.
Sounds exciting, but it isn't.
The novel is extremely anti-climatic as the the main characters are in enemy territory, surrounded at times by the Taliban, yet the only "excitement" the author attempts to create is redundant sexual encounters.
The author builds up issues (Taliban, ex-husband, father/daughter) only to let them dwindle away without any satisfaction.
One of the most annoying aspects of this read was the constant repeating of the same information over and over again - sometimes there was just a paragraph between the same reworded facts. This happened in dialogue, descriptions, and character's thoughts, all of which resulted in a disappointing read.
Sounds exciting, but it isn't.
The novel is extremely anti-climatic as the the main characters are in enemy territory, surrounded at times by the Taliban, yet the only "excitement" the author attempts to create is redundant sexual encounters.
The author builds up issues (Taliban, ex-husband, father/daughter) only to let them dwindle away without any satisfaction.
One of the most annoying aspects of this read was the constant repeating of the same information over and over again - sometimes there was just a paragraph between the same reworded facts. This happened in dialogue, descriptions, and character's thoughts, all of which resulted in a disappointing read.
Read
January 12, 2016"McKenna delivers a story that is raw and heartfelt. The relationship between Kell and Leah is both passionate and tender. Kell is the hero every woman wants, and McKenna employs skill and sympathy to craft a physically and emotionally abused character in Leah. Using high tension and steady pacing, McKenna is adept at expressing growing, tender love in the midst of high- stakes danger" (RT Book Reviews, 4 1/2 stars).
September 29, 2016
This last book left me a bit unsatisfied. Leah was a good woman but in my mind I cannot understand how she can be so trusty of Kell, since the first night, when she had a past so horrible with her ex-husband. There were thing of her which didn't work for an adult and professional woman.
The whole story seemed to me a bit unrealistic mostly because of Leah's reaction to her past.
All in all I liked this series very much :)
The whole story seemed to me a bit unrealistic mostly because of Leah's reaction to her past.
All in all I liked this series very much :)
March 4, 2015
Received an ARC for review
Another great book in the Shadow Warriors series. Kell is seriously yummy and has an amazing heart. Leah had a rough marriage and a seriously nasty ex. I loved how the SEALs use Khat's cave while there out on patrols. I don't think her ex got enough punishment. I hope the next book is about Clutch.
Another great book in the Shadow Warriors series. Kell is seriously yummy and has an amazing heart. Leah had a rough marriage and a seriously nasty ex. I loved how the SEALs use Khat's cave while there out on patrols. I don't think her ex got enough punishment. I hope the next book is about Clutch.
October 19, 2023
Another excellent Shadow Warriors book that kept me reading until I finished it. This author perfectly balances danger - dodging the Taliban and her ex-husband who wants to destroy her, offset with a fated love story. It has similarities to Taking Fire; I like the brief mentions of previous characters which tie it all together.
December 26, 2024
A very strong story
This a very strong story filled with emotions ranging from danger to love. It captures the scenes surrounding the scenes of covert missions filled with danger as well as the characters past and present!
This a very strong story filled with emotions ranging from danger to love. It captures the scenes surrounding the scenes of covert missions filled with danger as well as the characters past and present!
July 31, 2018
good. Kell & pilot Leah downed in Afghanistan, hiding from Taliban
Series. Would like to read about his brothers, but can't find if there are bks
Series. Would like to read about his brothers, but can't find if there are bks
December 1, 2018
This is another good chapter in the Shadow Warriors series. There's lots of action, and I enjoyed the main characters in here more than the previous book.
January 8, 2021
Good story but too much romance in the midst of the adventure. I skipped over much of the mush.
August 2, 2023
⛔️(in notes)
April 14, 2015
Overall Rating: 4 Rockin’ ★★★★
In this the eighth book in the Shadow Warriors series, author Lindsay McKenna once again touches the pulse of what makes a true American Hero! Running Fire tells the story of those brave men and women that are shadows infiltrating behind enemy lines to serve and protect freedom’s dream. Kell and Leah are two of the amazing characters created to tell a story of not heroic deeds but also even true love can be found and nourished even in the heat of battle.
Life is not easy for a SEAL, especially one that is sent into the Afghanistan desert as a shadow. A shadow with an agenda to take out a Person Of Interest, a new leader on the edge of becoming a new thorn in the side of the offensive against the war on terrorism. Kell Ballard is that shadow, a SEAL and a sniper. He had been hunkered down, watching and waiting for his assignment to appear so that he could complete his mission. Everything changes for Kell when a Shadow helicopter that was sent in to pick up a group of SEALS was fired on and is shot down. Going into warrior mode, he immediately goes to the aid of the pilot he sees crawling out of the burning pile of debris. When he finds out that the Shadow pilot he rescued is a woman, things really heat up!
Finally Leah Mackenzie has escaped and divorced her abusive husband. She is flying again and serving as a Shadow Squadron pilot in the Afghanistan region. As a Chief Warrant Officer she has the honor of into areas where few dare to go! The assignment that her team finds themselves on is to give a pick up to a stranded SEAL team. Leah is not prepared for the devastation and havoc that her team encounters at the pickup site. Everyone is dead but her and she is fast losing consciousness, when out of the night steps a man with a purpose. He will not only save her from the Taliban, but also from the nightmare that continues to haunt her. Sometimes the enemy can be someone you trust or maybe even love!
Hero: Kell Ballard 4 stars
Heroine: Leah Mackenzie 4 stars
Steam: 4 stars
Plot: 4 stars
Cliffhanger: No
Would I recommend this book: Yes! If you bleed red, white and blue; love stories about true heroes and enjoy reading about hot sexy alpha males that know how to get down and dirty, then this is the book for you!
Would I recommend this author: Yes! I am in awe of this wonderful author that paints pictures with her words that grab the imagination and carries her readers into other worlds. Ms. McKenna’s characters are so real that by the end of her books the reader feels like they know them. The intense feelings that they exhibit, call to the heart and soul in only the way a great writer can create. I cannot wait to read her next book!
***Received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review***
Running Fire Lindsay McKenna
In this the eighth book in the Shadow Warriors series, author Lindsay McKenna once again touches the pulse of what makes a true American Hero! Running Fire tells the story of those brave men and women that are shadows infiltrating behind enemy lines to serve and protect freedom’s dream. Kell and Leah are two of the amazing characters created to tell a story of not heroic deeds but also even true love can be found and nourished even in the heat of battle.
Life is not easy for a SEAL, especially one that is sent into the Afghanistan desert as a shadow. A shadow with an agenda to take out a Person Of Interest, a new leader on the edge of becoming a new thorn in the side of the offensive against the war on terrorism. Kell Ballard is that shadow, a SEAL and a sniper. He had been hunkered down, watching and waiting for his assignment to appear so that he could complete his mission. Everything changes for Kell when a Shadow helicopter that was sent in to pick up a group of SEALS was fired on and is shot down. Going into warrior mode, he immediately goes to the aid of the pilot he sees crawling out of the burning pile of debris. When he finds out that the Shadow pilot he rescued is a woman, things really heat up!
Finally Leah Mackenzie has escaped and divorced her abusive husband. She is flying again and serving as a Shadow Squadron pilot in the Afghanistan region. As a Chief Warrant Officer she has the honor of into areas where few dare to go! The assignment that her team finds themselves on is to give a pick up to a stranded SEAL team. Leah is not prepared for the devastation and havoc that her team encounters at the pickup site. Everyone is dead but her and she is fast losing consciousness, when out of the night steps a man with a purpose. He will not only save her from the Taliban, but also from the nightmare that continues to haunt her. Sometimes the enemy can be someone you trust or maybe even love!
Hero: Kell Ballard 4 stars
Heroine: Leah Mackenzie 4 stars
Steam: 4 stars
Plot: 4 stars
Cliffhanger: No
Would I recommend this book: Yes! If you bleed red, white and blue; love stories about true heroes and enjoy reading about hot sexy alpha males that know how to get down and dirty, then this is the book for you!
Would I recommend this author: Yes! I am in awe of this wonderful author that paints pictures with her words that grab the imagination and carries her readers into other worlds. Ms. McKenna’s characters are so real that by the end of her books the reader feels like they know them. The intense feelings that they exhibit, call to the heart and soul in only the way a great writer can create. I cannot wait to read her next book!
***Received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review***
Running Fire Lindsay McKenna
April 30, 2015
An intense romance wrapped in war zone and a Navy Seal like you’ve never seen before.
In the war-torn region of Afghanistan, Chief Warrant Officer and pilot Leah Mackenzie has been assigned to the Shadow Squadron and is no stranger to conflict or danger. Especially since most of her physical and emotional scars ore from her vicious ex-husband. When she is assigned to help pick up a team of stranded SEALs she gets a bad feeling which turns out to be very real when their helicopter is shot down. She is the only one of her team to survive the crash and is pulled to safety by SEAL Kell Ballard.
Kell’s goal was to get the injured pilot away from the crash and get them both to shelter deep inside the caves he has been calling home. He is shocked to discover the pilot is a woman. He uses his medic training to help stabilize her and the rest of his training to keep them both safe. Before long they find an intimacy with each other that neither expected nor was looking for. Leah is still troubled by her past with her ex and is afraid of being with a man intimately because of what she has been through. Together they have to try and fight their way home and the growing feelings for each other.
I started this expecting a tight gripping military thriller with some romance thrown in for effect. The romance ended up being the main story and the sexual tension is what drove most of the story. I usually like to read a good suspense thriller and romance is a second or third option for me. They usually just go too slow for me. Since I don’t read as many romance novels, I guess I was caught off guard with some of the scenes. The best way I can describe the sex scenes would be as soft porn. There was nothing vulgar in any of it which I appreciated. There was a sensualness that almost made it easy to overlook some of what was happening. Kell’s ability to calm Leah and wanting to make her feel safe with him in every way was written really well. With that said it could have still been done a lot less graphically. There was not very many pages where some type of innuendo wasn’t mentioned which got boring quickly. Several scenes were driven well without having to mention sex or the foreplay they were both thinking about. Even more could have been done this way with a little more effort.
My only other real criticism of the book would be the switching of Point of View. Almost every paragraph would flip flop from Kell to Leah. There was no break to say who was speaking when and about the time I figured out who was talking it was back to someone else. A few spots it worked well to get the feelings of both across quicker but still I consider this very poor writing.
If you are a big romance fan then this would be a good book for you as the sensuality of the characters being together and their attraction was played out well. If you are looking for a better suspense read I would bypass it altogether.
In the war-torn region of Afghanistan, Chief Warrant Officer and pilot Leah Mackenzie has been assigned to the Shadow Squadron and is no stranger to conflict or danger. Especially since most of her physical and emotional scars ore from her vicious ex-husband. When she is assigned to help pick up a team of stranded SEALs she gets a bad feeling which turns out to be very real when their helicopter is shot down. She is the only one of her team to survive the crash and is pulled to safety by SEAL Kell Ballard.
Kell’s goal was to get the injured pilot away from the crash and get them both to shelter deep inside the caves he has been calling home. He is shocked to discover the pilot is a woman. He uses his medic training to help stabilize her and the rest of his training to keep them both safe. Before long they find an intimacy with each other that neither expected nor was looking for. Leah is still troubled by her past with her ex and is afraid of being with a man intimately because of what she has been through. Together they have to try and fight their way home and the growing feelings for each other.
I started this expecting a tight gripping military thriller with some romance thrown in for effect. The romance ended up being the main story and the sexual tension is what drove most of the story. I usually like to read a good suspense thriller and romance is a second or third option for me. They usually just go too slow for me. Since I don’t read as many romance novels, I guess I was caught off guard with some of the scenes. The best way I can describe the sex scenes would be as soft porn. There was nothing vulgar in any of it which I appreciated. There was a sensualness that almost made it easy to overlook some of what was happening. Kell’s ability to calm Leah and wanting to make her feel safe with him in every way was written really well. With that said it could have still been done a lot less graphically. There was not very many pages where some type of innuendo wasn’t mentioned which got boring quickly. Several scenes were driven well without having to mention sex or the foreplay they were both thinking about. Even more could have been done this way with a little more effort.
My only other real criticism of the book would be the switching of Point of View. Almost every paragraph would flip flop from Kell to Leah. There was no break to say who was speaking when and about the time I figured out who was talking it was back to someone else. A few spots it worked well to get the feelings of both across quicker but still I consider this very poor writing.
If you are a big romance fan then this would be a good book for you as the sensuality of the characters being together and their attraction was played out well. If you are looking for a better suspense read I would bypass it altogether.
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