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Havoc #1
Havoc
When Clint "Grim" Walker, started Operation: Save Haven Davenport, the beaten, bruised girl who fell into his life, he had no idea it would turn him into an unbalanced, enraged, insecure idiot.
The mission objectives seemed simple:
Make her feel safe in his home. Fail.
Protect her from the neighborhood playboy. Fail.
Shelter her from the ex girlfriend. Fail.
Not fall in love with her. Epic fail.
And while Clint could learn to live with those failures, there's one he can't. And that's the objective that matters most. More than his side duties of making amends with his father, more than accepting motherly love from his meddling neighbor, and more than attempting to relate to his brother's in arms off the field.
That objective is life or death.
The mission objectives seemed simple:
Make her feel safe in his home. Fail.
Protect her from the neighborhood playboy. Fail.
Shelter her from the ex girlfriend. Fail.
Not fall in love with her. Epic fail.
And while Clint could learn to live with those failures, there's one he can't. And that's the objective that matters most. More than his side duties of making amends with his father, more than accepting motherly love from his meddling neighbor, and more than attempting to relate to his brother's in arms off the field.
That objective is life or death.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 10, 2014
246 people are currently reading
825 people want to read
About the author
Xavier Neal
132 books2,257 followersI'm USA TODAY Bestselling Romance Author who has published over ninety works to date.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
October 10, 2014
Havoc was a 3.5 star read for me. As always, I won't dick with you and will cut right to the chase...
What I enjoyed...
Clint AKA Grim AKA The Grim Reaper... This man is intense and he is hot as balls with his blue eyes. He is smart and he doesn't talk much at first. He is a man of few words but when he does speak it is for good reason. He has a difficult relationship with his father over many things that have happened over the years that neither of them have really dealt with effectively. He's loyal, he's determined, and you will love him.
Haven is smart and beautiful and a woman with a good heart. You will feel for her and like her immediately. She has a traumatic back story and when she meets Clint she is in a situation where she needs saving.
The best friends, Lordy & Glove fun guys, they definitely bring the comedic relief to the more romantic/obsessed and dramatic tones of the book.
I enjoyed how dedicated they were to one another and I liked watching Clint and his relationship with himself and those closest too him grow because of the way that she inspired him.
What could have been better...
I don't mind a bit of insta-love/insta-obsession when it's done well it works for me. I live in the real world so no I don't always need a 12 month courtship and a specific time frame before characters can declare they are in love. I thought that it was executed well for the most part here. These individuals are intense people who at one time or another were in positions or will be in positions that could cut their lives short. So seizing the day and no wasted time makes sense to me. However, if you are looking for a hot read this couple does not get to the dirty - dirty until the very end of the book. If insta-love isn't your thing this won't be the one for you either. I did find Clint's constant internal obsessing over her to be a little much at times but not enough to turn me off from the book.
I found the relationship between Clint and his father to be a little off putting at times. I think you were led to kind of believe that he was a different kind of man than what it turned out he was. Some of the things that Clint held against him felt disconnected. If Clint is a Marine then he should be able to logically link his fathers absences in his life with the purpose and reason for them. I can see him holding a grudge up until he entered the military himself, but that should have shed light on the entirety of the situation instead of him continuing to look at things through the eyes of a child.
I liked the small tight knit group of friends looking out for one another it just felt strange at times too.
I will continue with this series, because I did genuinely like this book... it's not my favorite by Xavier Neal but I think especially if you enjoy for instance The Corps Security series this will be a definite hit for you. There is most definitely in Xavier Neal fashion a cliffy at the end of this, lol, so you have been warned. It's not out of place or too halting though... it makes sense for the next part of the story to pick up there. So get it, read it, and enjoy it.
What I enjoyed...
Clint AKA Grim AKA The Grim Reaper... This man is intense and he is hot as balls with his blue eyes. He is smart and he doesn't talk much at first. He is a man of few words but when he does speak it is for good reason. He has a difficult relationship with his father over many things that have happened over the years that neither of them have really dealt with effectively. He's loyal, he's determined, and you will love him.
Haven is smart and beautiful and a woman with a good heart. You will feel for her and like her immediately. She has a traumatic back story and when she meets Clint she is in a situation where she needs saving.
The best friends, Lordy & Glove fun guys, they definitely bring the comedic relief to the more romantic/obsessed and dramatic tones of the book.
I enjoyed how dedicated they were to one another and I liked watching Clint and his relationship with himself and those closest too him grow because of the way that she inspired him.
What could have been better...
I don't mind a bit of insta-love/insta-obsession when it's done well it works for me. I live in the real world so no I don't always need a 12 month courtship and a specific time frame before characters can declare they are in love. I thought that it was executed well for the most part here. These individuals are intense people who at one time or another were in positions or will be in positions that could cut their lives short. So seizing the day and no wasted time makes sense to me. However, if you are looking for a hot read this couple does not get to the dirty - dirty until the very end of the book. If insta-love isn't your thing this won't be the one for you either. I did find Clint's constant internal obsessing over her to be a little much at times but not enough to turn me off from the book.
I found the relationship between Clint and his father to be a little off putting at times. I think you were led to kind of believe that he was a different kind of man than what it turned out he was. Some of the things that Clint held against him felt disconnected. If Clint is a Marine then he should be able to logically link his fathers absences in his life with the purpose and reason for them. I can see him holding a grudge up until he entered the military himself, but that should have shed light on the entirety of the situation instead of him continuing to look at things through the eyes of a child.
I liked the small tight knit group of friends looking out for one another it just felt strange at times too.
I will continue with this series, because I did genuinely like this book... it's not my favorite by Xavier Neal but I think especially if you enjoy for instance The Corps Security series this will be a definite hit for you. There is most definitely in Xavier Neal fashion a cliffy at the end of this, lol, so you have been warned. It's not out of place or too halting though... it makes sense for the next part of the story to pick up there. So get it, read it, and enjoy it.
February 22, 2015
Nothing like a Marine to get the blood pressure going !
Our Marine is dark and broody which just adds to his persona ♥
Clint lost his mom at a young age and the relationship he had with his father was very strained. Inevitably, he joins the marines and is well respected and dedicated to the force and his team ♥
So Clint aka Grim and his men have survived another tour and are home for a while and it's during this visit that Clint finds a woman,in his yard, barely breathing, unconscious, covered in cuts and bruises.
His immediate reaction is to save and protect but something deeper stirs within him....
Once he's reassured Haven that she's safe and he means her no harm , there is no turning back and the relationship that develops is sad yet beautiful ♥
Clint and Haven are each other's healing balm.The whole community unites to protect Haven and give her a new start, the bonds formed are deep and loyal.
Haven's story is a sad and brutal one and it reminded me of the reality of human trafficking and abuse . Haven was lucky enough to find Clint , sadly some aren't and end up trading one hell for another :(
Havoc was an intense read for me on so many different levels.
A definite ★★★★★ read that I'd recommend!
Our Marine is dark and broody which just adds to his persona ♥
Clint lost his mom at a young age and the relationship he had with his father was very strained. Inevitably, he joins the marines and is well respected and dedicated to the force and his team ♥
So Clint aka Grim and his men have survived another tour and are home for a while and it's during this visit that Clint finds a woman,in his yard, barely breathing, unconscious, covered in cuts and bruises.
His immediate reaction is to save and protect but something deeper stirs within him....
Once he's reassured Haven that she's safe and he means her no harm , there is no turning back and the relationship that develops is sad yet beautiful ♥
Clint and Haven are each other's healing balm.The whole community unites to protect Haven and give her a new start, the bonds formed are deep and loyal.
Haven's story is a sad and brutal one and it reminded me of the reality of human trafficking and abuse . Haven was lucky enough to find Clint , sadly some aren't and end up trading one hell for another :(
Havoc was an intense read for me on so many different levels.
A definite ★★★★★ read that I'd recommend!
April 11, 2015
I am a big fan of hot military heroes and, therefore, excited to read this book. Clint (nickname Grim) is a marine and he loves being a marine. His character is a mystery in that outwardly he is this strong marine but inwardly he is damaged and suffers from the death of his mother when he was very young. Clint’s father (Sir) is the local sheriff. His relationship with his son is strained because he pulled away from him after the death of his wife. Sir is also deeply damaged when his wife passed. Over the years, instead of Sir loving his son and helping him deal with the loss of his mother he just shouts orders. This strange father/son relationship accounts for the hard exterior that Clint shows to the world.
Haven comes into Clint’s life when she escapes from the ogre that held her captive and physically, sexually and, emotionally abused her. Haven is beautiful with a loving and kind soul even after all she suffering she went through. I like this character and how she helps Clint while he helps her.
Saving Haven sets the stage for a kind of instant love/protector relationship between Clint and Haven. He doesn’t want her to suffer any more and goes a little overboard trying to ensure her safety. He doesn’t want any more pain in her future.
I like watching Clint grow emotionally as he becomes more involved with Haven. She brings love back in his life and has him examining his feelings even though it makes him anxious. She gives him the strength to stand up to his father something he’s needed to do for a long time.
I love good support characters and we have that in this book. The support characters (Glove & Lordy) are perfect. What makes them so good is that they are a little mysterious and well developed. I'm questioning why everyone have a pseudonym? The secondary characters also shed light on Clint’s character and are good friends. They are people you want in your life. As a reader, I cry out to learn more about them.
Even though I would normally complain about this cliffhanger, the next book is available now so it isn’t really a cliffhanger and, therefore, start reading now.
This is the first book I’ve read by Xavier Neal but I will be looking for more. Good job!
Reviewed for Badass Bloggettes http://badassbloggettes.blogspot.com/
Haven comes into Clint’s life when she escapes from the ogre that held her captive and physically, sexually and, emotionally abused her. Haven is beautiful with a loving and kind soul even after all she suffering she went through. I like this character and how she helps Clint while he helps her.
Saving Haven sets the stage for a kind of instant love/protector relationship between Clint and Haven. He doesn’t want her to suffer any more and goes a little overboard trying to ensure her safety. He doesn’t want any more pain in her future.
I like watching Clint grow emotionally as he becomes more involved with Haven. She brings love back in his life and has him examining his feelings even though it makes him anxious. She gives him the strength to stand up to his father something he’s needed to do for a long time.
I love good support characters and we have that in this book. The support characters (Glove & Lordy) are perfect. What makes them so good is that they are a little mysterious and well developed. I'm questioning why everyone have a pseudonym? The secondary characters also shed light on Clint’s character and are good friends. They are people you want in your life. As a reader, I cry out to learn more about them.
Even though I would normally complain about this cliffhanger, the next book is available now so it isn’t really a cliffhanger and, therefore, start reading now.
This is the first book I’ve read by Xavier Neal but I will be looking for more. Good job!
Reviewed for Badass Bloggettes http://badassbloggettes.blogspot.com/
December 23, 2014
*Ecopy provided in exchange for an honest review*
Story told in Male's POV (I loved that) The story sucked me in from the very beginning. Clint "Grim" is a very interesting character and I liked how quiet and mysterious he was. What I didn't like was that he had 2 nicknames, the military one "Grim" then the one that everyone from his neighborhood called him, "Slugger" so in the beginning I was confused a bit, I did get it but would have preferred just the one nickname since when he meets Haven all she calls him is his real name Clint.
I liked the characters specially Glove and Lordy, Clint's military best friends, they are all Marines. I loved their military life and the relationships they have.
Haven is the love interest and she is a little broken. She has a very dark past and I really liked how the author introduced her to the story but I would have liked her to be a little bit more afraid of staying in a home with 2 strange men after all she went through being captive for 4 years. That was a bit weird for me how she accepted them so fast and didn't even think about it for a little bit.
If you like insta-love then you will love this one for sure. It was a little too fast for me, I would have liked not to know how many days had passed because I was thinking that the things that were happening were too fast and I was going back in the story to see if I read correctly.
There is no sex till the very end and once they get there it was good. I appreciated that the author waited till the very end because of Haven's back story, I wouldn't have expected Haven to jump into the sack with Clint right away.
The secondary characters were all very likable, even Sir was ok in my opinion, I liked him even though he has a very strange relationship with his son Clint.
I loved Mindy, she is like Clint's mom even though she is just the neighbor that looked after him after his mom passed away. Striker was also a great character. And Howard on the other hand was a very good villain.
The story ends on a big cliffy so you have been warned.
I am definitely reading more from this author, picking up Chaos right now.
Story told in Male's POV (I loved that) The story sucked me in from the very beginning. Clint "Grim" is a very interesting character and I liked how quiet and mysterious he was. What I didn't like was that he had 2 nicknames, the military one "Grim" then the one that everyone from his neighborhood called him, "Slugger" so in the beginning I was confused a bit, I did get it but would have preferred just the one nickname since when he meets Haven all she calls him is his real name Clint.
I liked the characters specially Glove and Lordy, Clint's military best friends, they are all Marines. I loved their military life and the relationships they have.
Haven is the love interest and she is a little broken. She has a very dark past and I really liked how the author introduced her to the story but I would have liked her to be a little bit more afraid of staying in a home with 2 strange men after all she went through being captive for 4 years. That was a bit weird for me how she accepted them so fast and didn't even think about it for a little bit.
If you like insta-love then you will love this one for sure. It was a little too fast for me, I would have liked not to know how many days had passed because I was thinking that the things that were happening were too fast and I was going back in the story to see if I read correctly.
There is no sex till the very end and once they get there it was good. I appreciated that the author waited till the very end because of Haven's back story, I wouldn't have expected Haven to jump into the sack with Clint right away.
The secondary characters were all very likable, even Sir was ok in my opinion, I liked him even though he has a very strange relationship with his son Clint.
I loved Mindy, she is like Clint's mom even though she is just the neighbor that looked after him after his mom passed away. Striker was also a great character. And Howard on the other hand was a very good villain.
The story ends on a big cliffy so you have been warned.
I am definitely reading more from this author, picking up Chaos right now.
November 10, 2014
We are introduced to Clint (Grim) in the prologue, a sad back story of his mother passing, bringing to light Clint's feelings about his dad's absence growing up. And in the beginning we learn how serious and "Grim" he is, so he's aptly named. In the here and now of the book, Clint is on leave, counting down the days until his next deployment until he finds a bruised and battered Haven unconscious in his yard. His mission at that point becomes nothing other than keeping her safe. He falls for her. He feels so strongly that he needs to protect this young girl. He is immediately in tune with her feelings, and is overwhelmed by it, as is she. We follow them through the next intense 87 days, settling Haven into a different life, with a network of people to help, and preparing each other for life after his deployment. And we find out what they forgot to prepare for, as a result of concentrating solely on that time.
I might be biased, I really love romance stories starring Marines, Army dudes, and other sorts of commandos, this is definitely a book up the same alley as "Corps Security." This is not a super smut read. But the romance is there. The "alpha" is there, quite literally.
Two things that "bothered" me with this book, and prevents me from giving it 5 STARS is; one- the relationship between Clint and his dad. I feel like he's holding on too tightly to something he should understand with the career choices that he made. And two- I think more back story on Haven would have been good, or sharing the POV between them.
-Keri
(ARC provided in exchange for honest review.)
I might be biased, I really love romance stories starring Marines, Army dudes, and other sorts of commandos, this is definitely a book up the same alley as "Corps Security." This is not a super smut read. But the romance is there. The "alpha" is there, quite literally.
Two things that "bothered" me with this book, and prevents me from giving it 5 STARS is; one- the relationship between Clint and his dad. I feel like he's holding on too tightly to something he should understand with the career choices that he made. And two- I think more back story on Haven would have been good, or sharing the POV between them.
-Keri
(ARC provided in exchange for honest review.)
October 7, 2014
Our boy Clint or 'Grim' as everyone calls him has it bad for Haven, "I won't be the reason that tear falls. Not now. Not ever. Not if I can help it." I mean the boy will do anything for her and if someone tries to stand in his way he finds his voice and stands up, "and I appreciate the concern, but I'm not leaving until she opens her eyes and I know she's all right. Period. You can lecture me if you like about everything that I need to be doing, but honestly, I'm not going anywhere until she opens her goddamn eyes, Sir." I liked how as the story grew so didn't Haven's confidence, "she seductively bites her bottom lip, and I feel myself immediately regretting those words. I'm about thirty seconds from saying 'eff the world' and handling business. Over and over again." Xavier was very naughty and left us a nasty cliffhanger I wasn't pleased but I'm looking forward to the next book.
October 13, 2014
** JOSIE'S 3.5 STAR REVIEW **
Havoc by Xavier Neal is the story of Clint ‘Grim’ and Haven. Clint is a strong, tough and structured character. He’s a Marine who is currently at home on leave. He lives with his father, who is the sheriff of their town and runs a strict home. Everything about the father and son duo is structured to the Tee. Clint has always done things a certain way, but when he sees a battered a bruised girl in his yard, he develops this basic urge to protect her. Havoc is told in Clint’s POV and the author lets us get deep into his mind. We can see how affected he is by Haven and his undeniable need to protect her and make her his.
“How could someone do this to a woman, let alone an angel? I know that sounds crazy, but just one look at her, and I know she had to have fallen from heaven.”
Clint is in a constant battle with himself due to his father and his upbringing. The relationship between father and son is cold and structured and unfeeling. It is because of this he has a hard time understanding what is happening and why he feels so strongly about Haven. Why just being in her presence makes him want more and makes him feel.
“I’m staring an actual peace of heaven on earth. I’d die for her. Wait – what? I run my hands down my face. Get a f****** grip, Grim. You’re a Marine. Act like it. Treat her the way you would any other job.”
Clint he very smart and aware that something is going on with Haven. He is very in tuned with her. He knows her without her talking to him. I enjoyed how the author showed readers that it was not just a lust feeling Clint had, it was stronger and deeper. Clint never had a loving home environment so the author shows readers how these new feelings frightened him but also how he welcomes them. He did not just have sex with women just to have sex, so we were able to see how Haven was special to him.
“I know it’s hard for you to imagine anyone not wanting to harm you, but I brought you into my home, I nursed you back to life, and I have every intention on protecting you from any danger that comes in your directions. Please, I’m asking you, through pain, too please, I beg you to please trust me.”
“Why? Why didn’t you take her to the police station or hospital?”
I’m not real sure, Sir. I….I want to keep her. I want her to stay with us. With me.”
Clint’s world is literally turned upside down by the beautiful young lady. Clint is very protective of Haven, like alpha male dominant protective. He is constantly reminded of the fact that he will be deploying soon but wants to make sure Haven is left protected and safe. I loved his character, his fierceness to protect her, his caring side and his ability to stand up to anyone that will threaten his Angel.
“What the F*** are you doing here?”
“Came to check on the pretty lady.”
“She doesn’t need you to check on her.”
“And she doesn’t need you to protect her like a pit bull off his leash, yet her you are.”
I enjoyed how the author wrote Clint’s character. He normally does whatever he is told to do but I really liked seeing how he became strong and stood up for himself and for Haven. Slowly Haven and Clint give each other the support they both need and they fall in love. I really enjoyed Haven’s character as well, she is for the most part quiet and subdued but with Clint’s help and the friends she makes, she slowly opens up. The relationship between Clint and Haven was innocent, freshening and adorable.
“My world is you. You’re mine. That’s it, and I don’t mean that in some sick, perverted way like that bastard held you hostage. I mean that, with every bone in my body, as long as I walk this earth, Haven Davenport, you belong to me. And I belong to you.”
“I love you too, Clint. I’m broken. I’ve been through so much and had so much taken from me. I’m not even sure I know how to love or that I deserve love, let alone the love you’re willing to give me. I don’t deserve this, Clint.”
Clint and Haven eventually form a relationship that is solid, deep and powerful, even though Clint has to deploy. Clint and Haven are so focused on his deployment and making sure she is safe, they forget the obvious. The danger that is still lurking waiting for the chance to ruin everything. Will Clint be able to keep his promise to Haven? Can he save Haven this time around? The only thing I felt this story needed was Haven’s POV and a prologue of how and what happened to her prior to her turning up in Clint’s yard. The story was a great one and it flowed nicely, the relationship was a gradual one which made it feel more natural. I am anxious to see what happens in the next book, so I hope it will not be a long wait.
Havoc by Xavier Neal is the story of Clint ‘Grim’ and Haven. Clint is a strong, tough and structured character. He’s a Marine who is currently at home on leave. He lives with his father, who is the sheriff of their town and runs a strict home. Everything about the father and son duo is structured to the Tee. Clint has always done things a certain way, but when he sees a battered a bruised girl in his yard, he develops this basic urge to protect her. Havoc is told in Clint’s POV and the author lets us get deep into his mind. We can see how affected he is by Haven and his undeniable need to protect her and make her his.
“How could someone do this to a woman, let alone an angel? I know that sounds crazy, but just one look at her, and I know she had to have fallen from heaven.”
Clint is in a constant battle with himself due to his father and his upbringing. The relationship between father and son is cold and structured and unfeeling. It is because of this he has a hard time understanding what is happening and why he feels so strongly about Haven. Why just being in her presence makes him want more and makes him feel.
“I’m staring an actual peace of heaven on earth. I’d die for her. Wait – what? I run my hands down my face. Get a f****** grip, Grim. You’re a Marine. Act like it. Treat her the way you would any other job.”
Clint he very smart and aware that something is going on with Haven. He is very in tuned with her. He knows her without her talking to him. I enjoyed how the author showed readers that it was not just a lust feeling Clint had, it was stronger and deeper. Clint never had a loving home environment so the author shows readers how these new feelings frightened him but also how he welcomes them. He did not just have sex with women just to have sex, so we were able to see how Haven was special to him.
“I know it’s hard for you to imagine anyone not wanting to harm you, but I brought you into my home, I nursed you back to life, and I have every intention on protecting you from any danger that comes in your directions. Please, I’m asking you, through pain, too please, I beg you to please trust me.”
“Why? Why didn’t you take her to the police station or hospital?”
I’m not real sure, Sir. I….I want to keep her. I want her to stay with us. With me.”
Clint’s world is literally turned upside down by the beautiful young lady. Clint is very protective of Haven, like alpha male dominant protective. He is constantly reminded of the fact that he will be deploying soon but wants to make sure Haven is left protected and safe. I loved his character, his fierceness to protect her, his caring side and his ability to stand up to anyone that will threaten his Angel.
“What the F*** are you doing here?”
“Came to check on the pretty lady.”
“She doesn’t need you to check on her.”
“And she doesn’t need you to protect her like a pit bull off his leash, yet her you are.”
I enjoyed how the author wrote Clint’s character. He normally does whatever he is told to do but I really liked seeing how he became strong and stood up for himself and for Haven. Slowly Haven and Clint give each other the support they both need and they fall in love. I really enjoyed Haven’s character as well, she is for the most part quiet and subdued but with Clint’s help and the friends she makes, she slowly opens up. The relationship between Clint and Haven was innocent, freshening and adorable.
“My world is you. You’re mine. That’s it, and I don’t mean that in some sick, perverted way like that bastard held you hostage. I mean that, with every bone in my body, as long as I walk this earth, Haven Davenport, you belong to me. And I belong to you.”
“I love you too, Clint. I’m broken. I’ve been through so much and had so much taken from me. I’m not even sure I know how to love or that I deserve love, let alone the love you’re willing to give me. I don’t deserve this, Clint.”
Clint and Haven eventually form a relationship that is solid, deep and powerful, even though Clint has to deploy. Clint and Haven are so focused on his deployment and making sure she is safe, they forget the obvious. The danger that is still lurking waiting for the chance to ruin everything. Will Clint be able to keep his promise to Haven? Can he save Haven this time around? The only thing I felt this story needed was Haven’s POV and a prologue of how and what happened to her prior to her turning up in Clint’s yard. The story was a great one and it flowed nicely, the relationship was a gradual one which made it feel more natural. I am anxious to see what happens in the next book, so I hope it will not be a long wait.
October 9, 2014
I was first drawn to this book because the military references. Just like bikers, I have a thing for military men, especially marines. Clint, aka Grim was a true young marine in every way. Hard, cold, calculated, he was always on point. His mother and father raised him that way, since his dad was an ex-marine himself. But once his mother passed when he was just 10 years old life changed. Dad was no longer a dad, but a man that gave him orders. Sir. Thus, Grim grew tough like him and joined the marines on this 18th birthday.
I loved how this book started with a lot of details about why Grim is the way he is. I enjoyed the memories of his mom and how his neighborhood has become his family. We see Grim at the current age of 21, an active Marine, but he has many flashbacks. Sometimes from his childhood and sometimes from his first deployment in Iraq. He got a bit confusing keeping up with where his head was, especially once Haven came into the picture because she had her own memories flooding in.
Grim was on a typical leave when he found Haven passed out in his yard. This I found to be too strange to ever be true. I still don’t understand where she escaped from or why they took her. Or why her parents died. I feel like all details on her past were given on bits and pieces. I needed a little more. Maybe I just didn’t like her character, small and weak is all I saw. Grim however saw love, instantly. Which he had never felt before. I did enjoy the thoughts in his head and how he protected her from day one. His passion was amazing, for her and for the marines. I really like him.
The ending of this book didn’t give me much closure. I loved that Grim and Haven finally made love and that they waited for the best time. However, the end just dropped me on her getting kidnapped again. Obviously the author wants me to read the second book, but I honestly could not get on Havens side so I doubt I’ll continue this story.
2.5 stars
I loved how this book started with a lot of details about why Grim is the way he is. I enjoyed the memories of his mom and how his neighborhood has become his family. We see Grim at the current age of 21, an active Marine, but he has many flashbacks. Sometimes from his childhood and sometimes from his first deployment in Iraq. He got a bit confusing keeping up with where his head was, especially once Haven came into the picture because she had her own memories flooding in.
Grim was on a typical leave when he found Haven passed out in his yard. This I found to be too strange to ever be true. I still don’t understand where she escaped from or why they took her. Or why her parents died. I feel like all details on her past were given on bits and pieces. I needed a little more. Maybe I just didn’t like her character, small and weak is all I saw. Grim however saw love, instantly. Which he had never felt before. I did enjoy the thoughts in his head and how he protected her from day one. His passion was amazing, for her and for the marines. I really like him.
The ending of this book didn’t give me much closure. I loved that Grim and Haven finally made love and that they waited for the best time. However, the end just dropped me on her getting kidnapped again. Obviously the author wants me to read the second book, but I honestly could not get on Havens side so I doubt I’ll continue this story.
2.5 stars
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November 1, 2014
***I received this book in exchange for an honest review**
First, may I share a little experience with you?
I was eagerly nearing the end of Havoc when a glance at the clock revealed it was time to get my son off the school bus. I did so impatiently, then returned to my reading. Fourty - Five minutes later, my brother-in-law enters the house to ask if I knew I had left my car running. *FACE-PALM* Needless to say, aside from Havoc being perfect, I won't forget my first time reading it. On with the review...
Havoc is a book every romance lover MUST ADD to their library. I will have this in paperback and I do not order books if they aren't of prestine quality in every aspect.
Clint, a no-nonsense marine, focuses on his duties, and he is the best all he pursues. His determination is his escape from a shattered past. Everything changes when Haven, a violently abused runaway ends up on his lawn. His stone-cold heart melts at a rapid pace, wreaking havoc on his existence.
Author Xavier Neal always includes a close-knit family vibe, creating an overwhelming and comforting atmosphere. It is a longing fulfilled through her written word; an opportunity to experience it. These words embed themselves into the very core of my heart. Neal's ability to create strong, emotional atmospheres ensures a reader will read any book she gets published.
Clint's honorable intentions, overwhelming emotions, and vulnerability is soul consuming. Haven is a strong-willed gir, young woman who has just begun to learn about the world around her. Her free-spirited character and compassionate resolve is all that is needed to fall in love.
So much passion is infused in Havoc that I am left helplessly intoxicated and hopelessly devoted to this new series.
The ending swayed intense, devastating emotions. I am so intrigued that the wait for the second installment is excruciating.
Xavier Neal is a debut author whose name you won't soon forget. That's guaranteed.
First, may I share a little experience with you?
I was eagerly nearing the end of Havoc when a glance at the clock revealed it was time to get my son off the school bus. I did so impatiently, then returned to my reading. Fourty - Five minutes later, my brother-in-law enters the house to ask if I knew I had left my car running. *FACE-PALM* Needless to say, aside from Havoc being perfect, I won't forget my first time reading it. On with the review...
Havoc is a book every romance lover MUST ADD to their library. I will have this in paperback and I do not order books if they aren't of prestine quality in every aspect.
Clint, a no-nonsense marine, focuses on his duties, and he is the best all he pursues. His determination is his escape from a shattered past. Everything changes when Haven, a violently abused runaway ends up on his lawn. His stone-cold heart melts at a rapid pace, wreaking havoc on his existence.
Author Xavier Neal always includes a close-knit family vibe, creating an overwhelming and comforting atmosphere. It is a longing fulfilled through her written word; an opportunity to experience it. These words embed themselves into the very core of my heart. Neal's ability to create strong, emotional atmospheres ensures a reader will read any book she gets published.
Clint's honorable intentions, overwhelming emotions, and vulnerability is soul consuming. Haven is a strong-willed gir, young woman who has just begun to learn about the world around her. Her free-spirited character and compassionate resolve is all that is needed to fall in love.
So much passion is infused in Havoc that I am left helplessly intoxicated and hopelessly devoted to this new series.
The ending swayed intense, devastating emotions. I am so intrigued that the wait for the second installment is excruciating.
Xavier Neal is a debut author whose name you won't soon forget. That's guaranteed.
January 12, 2015
STARS: 5
POV: First
SERIES: Yes
CLIFFHANGER: Yes
As far as broken Heroes go, Clint takes the cake. Despite him being a big tough (hot and sexy) Marine, I want to huggle (hug/cuddle) him HARD! This man shattered my heart and my soul.
Clint wanted death. He waited for her to come visit. The void left in him by his mother’s death was unfillable. So he joined the Marines and put every ounce of himself into completing each mission as it was thrown at him. He never saw his next mission and he was ill prepared to reach his objective.
Haven fell into his life and all Clint could think to do was protect her from all dangers. He wanted to be the hero for her. Little did he know that she would end up healing broken parts of himself. Clint is in a new war zone. He hasn’t been trained for the things he is going to face with Haven in his life.
Get ready people because this is one ride you will not want to miss! The writing is amazing and kept me glued to my kindle. I felt every sadness, every joy, every frown, every smile. I loved this book. The cliffhanger had me swiping like a maniac screaming! Ugh what a way to end the first book! Xavier, can I please go back in time and take little 10 year old Clint by the hand and make him cookies and hug him and (ok fine...enough with this long run on sentence). My heart is still shattered and I cannot wait to read book 2! *Alpha* Go 1-click!
POV: First
SERIES: Yes
CLIFFHANGER: Yes
As far as broken Heroes go, Clint takes the cake. Despite him being a big tough (hot and sexy) Marine, I want to huggle (hug/cuddle) him HARD! This man shattered my heart and my soul.
Clint wanted death. He waited for her to come visit. The void left in him by his mother’s death was unfillable. So he joined the Marines and put every ounce of himself into completing each mission as it was thrown at him. He never saw his next mission and he was ill prepared to reach his objective.
Haven fell into his life and all Clint could think to do was protect her from all dangers. He wanted to be the hero for her. Little did he know that she would end up healing broken parts of himself. Clint is in a new war zone. He hasn’t been trained for the things he is going to face with Haven in his life.
Get ready people because this is one ride you will not want to miss! The writing is amazing and kept me glued to my kindle. I felt every sadness, every joy, every frown, every smile. I loved this book. The cliffhanger had me swiping like a maniac screaming! Ugh what a way to end the first book! Xavier, can I please go back in time and take little 10 year old Clint by the hand and make him cookies and hug him and (ok fine...enough with this long run on sentence). My heart is still shattered and I cannot wait to read book 2! *Alpha* Go 1-click!
January 21, 2015
Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:
Havoc is one story I enjoyed to the fullest. I am a HUGE fan of a damsel in distress (Haven) and the hero or knight in shinning armor (Grim) who comes to the rescue. I know that this type of story isn't what everyone likes, but for me, I LOVED IT. Of course it might have to do with my own personal fantasies of being rescued by a sexy hero. What woman could deny a sexy hero coming to the aid of a woman in need? Definitely not this girl! *Wink*
Clint "Grim" Walker is a one bad ass marine who after returning home, has one mission: Protect Haven. The scared and beaten young woman who more or less fell into his life. This is a story that gripped me from the first chapter. I loved the developed story and how the story is through Clint's POV which just added to the story. It was emotional and interesting, and in some moments funny. I laughed and cried and just generally enjoyed Havoc and am so glad I was offered the chance to read and review for Xavier Neal, the very talented author of Havoc.
I gave Havoc a very fine FOUR OUT OF FIVE SHOOTING STARS! Havoc is the kind of story that will grip you from the beginning and hold you tight to the very end. I really think Xavier is a wonderfully talented author who knows how to create an intriguing story with depth and character.
Havoc is one story I enjoyed to the fullest. I am a HUGE fan of a damsel in distress (Haven) and the hero or knight in shinning armor (Grim) who comes to the rescue. I know that this type of story isn't what everyone likes, but for me, I LOVED IT. Of course it might have to do with my own personal fantasies of being rescued by a sexy hero. What woman could deny a sexy hero coming to the aid of a woman in need? Definitely not this girl! *Wink*
Clint "Grim" Walker is a one bad ass marine who after returning home, has one mission: Protect Haven. The scared and beaten young woman who more or less fell into his life. This is a story that gripped me from the first chapter. I loved the developed story and how the story is through Clint's POV which just added to the story. It was emotional and interesting, and in some moments funny. I laughed and cried and just generally enjoyed Havoc and am so glad I was offered the chance to read and review for Xavier Neal, the very talented author of Havoc.
I gave Havoc a very fine FOUR OUT OF FIVE SHOOTING STARS! Havoc is the kind of story that will grip you from the beginning and hold you tight to the very end. I really think Xavier is a wonderfully talented author who knows how to create an intriguing story with depth and character.
October 27, 2014
Favorite Lines or Quotes:
Le Le touches my elbow, strokes it with her nail. God I wish she wouldn't touch me. There's not enough soap in the house to get rid of the stench of tramp.
NADBB gets to review a 3rd book by Ms. Xavier Neal. It wasn't Max and Logan, but we're dealing. SLOWLY.
Synopsis:
This is the story of Clint "Grim" Walker and Haven Davenport. Clint made it a mission to take care of Haven and make sure everything was okay for her. He never planned on falling in love with her. He failed on every goal he made in regards to Haven. Can we ultimately win at love?
The Review:
The Good: Well we wanted to hate this book. We wanted Book 3 in the Senses series. So Havoc created HAVOC in our TBR pile and had a big hill to climb. It managed to do that with all the wonderful things that made us fall in love with Xavier from the beginning. The characters were totally believable. Their dialogue never dragged and the story moved at just the right pace to suit us.
The Bad: I wanted to hear more. More about Haven before Clint. More from Haven during Clint. Just More.
The Rating: 4.3 You can probably tell we're Xavier Neal groupies now. We're waiting for the next book please.
Le Le touches my elbow, strokes it with her nail. God I wish she wouldn't touch me. There's not enough soap in the house to get rid of the stench of tramp.
NADBB gets to review a 3rd book by Ms. Xavier Neal. It wasn't Max and Logan, but we're dealing. SLOWLY.
Synopsis:
This is the story of Clint "Grim" Walker and Haven Davenport. Clint made it a mission to take care of Haven and make sure everything was okay for her. He never planned on falling in love with her. He failed on every goal he made in regards to Haven. Can we ultimately win at love?
The Review:
The Good: Well we wanted to hate this book. We wanted Book 3 in the Senses series. So Havoc created HAVOC in our TBR pile and had a big hill to climb. It managed to do that with all the wonderful things that made us fall in love with Xavier from the beginning. The characters were totally believable. Their dialogue never dragged and the story moved at just the right pace to suit us.
The Bad: I wanted to hear more. More about Haven before Clint. More from Haven during Clint. Just More.
The Rating: 4.3 You can probably tell we're Xavier Neal groupies now. We're waiting for the next book please.
November 6, 2014
*I Was Provided A ARC By The Author*
Clint "Grim" Walker is all about the marines. He lives and breathes it. It's what he's good at. No emotions, no feelings, just his job. He's had aruff childhood. After losing his mother, and basically his father, who just shut down once his mother passed. So growing up, he threw himself into getting stronger and stronger, to become the perfect solider. While on leave, back home, in a house that hasn't felt like home in so long. Clint finds a angle barley breathing in his front yard. A weak and injuried women. Haven, she's had a horrible past. Unthinkable things have happened to her. And Clint wants to save this poor women, he needs to save her. He can't describe it, but he feels like he was made to protect her. With the help of his father and neighbors, who all look out for each other like a family. They come together to protect Haven. And give her a new, better life. Haven & Clint have a unique relationship. Clint dosent let himself open up to women much, and Haven had a dark past that makes it hard for her trust. But there feelings are to much to Deine. If you like, sexy marines, broken characters who have to learn to heal, and romance, then read Havoc. Great story, can't wait to see what happenes next.
Clint "Grim" Walker is all about the marines. He lives and breathes it. It's what he's good at. No emotions, no feelings, just his job. He's had aruff childhood. After losing his mother, and basically his father, who just shut down once his mother passed. So growing up, he threw himself into getting stronger and stronger, to become the perfect solider. While on leave, back home, in a house that hasn't felt like home in so long. Clint finds a angle barley breathing in his front yard. A weak and injuried women. Haven, she's had a horrible past. Unthinkable things have happened to her. And Clint wants to save this poor women, he needs to save her. He can't describe it, but he feels like he was made to protect her. With the help of his father and neighbors, who all look out for each other like a family. They come together to protect Haven. And give her a new, better life. Haven & Clint have a unique relationship. Clint dosent let himself open up to women much, and Haven had a dark past that makes it hard for her trust. But there feelings are to much to Deine. If you like, sexy marines, broken characters who have to learn to heal, and romance, then read Havoc. Great story, can't wait to see what happenes next.
March 5, 2015
When Clint “Grim’ Walker returns from deployment as a Marine he expects nothing to have changed at the home that no longer feels like a home, and with the father that he calls “Sir” and has since he lost his mother and his father gave up his career to care for him.
Now an adult, the relationship between the two is awkward at best and a struggle to work through early on in the book.
Until suddenly Clint comes across a battered woman, Haven, in his front yard and his heart tells him that she is his (in a nice way, not a stalky lock up in the basement way) and rather than call the police he takes her inside and proceeds to look after her.
I had a few problems here with how Haven is treated by “Sir” and her initiation into the area.
It was great though to see a book written from an almost entirely male POV and the author portrayed Clint’s feelings really well and what he was going through.
Slow at first, but this developed into a very good read!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Diana.
Now an adult, the relationship between the two is awkward at best and a struggle to work through early on in the book.
Until suddenly Clint comes across a battered woman, Haven, in his front yard and his heart tells him that she is his (in a nice way, not a stalky lock up in the basement way) and rather than call the police he takes her inside and proceeds to look after her.
I had a few problems here with how Haven is treated by “Sir” and her initiation into the area.
It was great though to see a book written from an almost entirely male POV and the author portrayed Clint’s feelings really well and what he was going through.
Slow at first, but this developed into a very good read!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Diana.
July 30, 2018
Too wordy and only one perspective
I hate first person books and I really first person from one perspective only. This book was extremely wordy. Maybe it was the font I am reading in but sheesh.
The overall story: Clint only 21 or 22 years old in the book is a marine. He lives for combat but basically it's a drug to deal with upbringing and the father he doesn't consider a father. He is just living life for his next deployment. He does this until "an angel" dropped on his life. Literally. She isn't an angel but she dropped in front of his home.
After just seeing her, here comes the typical "love at first sight", "I heard music" sort of love the main character didn't know he had.
My problem with the book is that a lot of the main stuff to make it great were barely mentioned. There is all of this fluff in between and you only get Clint's perspective which annoys me to no end.
Clint falls fast and had in love and your kind of like this is too much for the girl. I might be interested in the other books but I really do hate stories written in first person.
I hate first person books and I really first person from one perspective only. This book was extremely wordy. Maybe it was the font I am reading in but sheesh.
The overall story: Clint only 21 or 22 years old in the book is a marine. He lives for combat but basically it's a drug to deal with upbringing and the father he doesn't consider a father. He is just living life for his next deployment. He does this until "an angel" dropped on his life. Literally. She isn't an angel but she dropped in front of his home.
After just seeing her, here comes the typical "love at first sight", "I heard music" sort of love the main character didn't know he had.
My problem with the book is that a lot of the main stuff to make it great were barely mentioned. There is all of this fluff in between and you only get Clint's perspective which annoys me to no end.
Clint falls fast and had in love and your kind of like this is too much for the girl. I might be interested in the other books but I really do hate stories written in first person.
October 11, 2014
Havoc is about one hot Marine! Clint isn't like the other guys his age, he seemed more serious and focused. When he finds Haven it's instant for him... he must protect her at all costs. She makes him feel things he's taught himself to no longer feel. She's as wounded as he is. This book has heat but it's not a wham bam kind, it's slow and that helps with you really liking them.
I liked this book, because of the intensity Clint/Grim you've got to read every word to understand his internal struggles, he had a lot of internal dialogue, but I like it. It makes you understand him in a way that makes you love him even more! The feeling of family you'll get from the community that surrounds and supports Haven is great! I loved Clint and his friends from the military and their banter. It is a part of a series so remember to save enough for the next book!!! I can't wait to read more about Clint and Haven!!!!!
I liked this book, because of the intensity Clint/Grim you've got to read every word to understand his internal struggles, he had a lot of internal dialogue, but I like it. It makes you understand him in a way that makes you love him even more! The feeling of family you'll get from the community that surrounds and supports Haven is great! I loved Clint and his friends from the military and their banter. It is a part of a series so remember to save enough for the next book!!! I can't wait to read more about Clint and Haven!!!!!
March 13, 2015
I am a big fan of hot military heroes and, therefore, excited to read this book. Clint (nickname Grim) is a marine and he loves being a marine. His character is a mystery in that outwardly he is this strong marine but inwardly he is damaged and suffers from the death of his mother when he was very young.
Clint’s father (Sir) is the local sheriff. His relationship with his son is strained because he pulled away from him after the death of his wife. Sir is also deeply damaged when his wife passed. Over the years, instead of Sir loving his son and helping him deal with the loss of his mother he just shouts orders. This strange father/son relationship accounts for the hard exterior that Clint shows to the world.
Haven comes into Clint’s life when she escapes from the ogre that held her captive and physically, sexually and, emotionally abused her. Haven is beautiful with a loving and kind soul even after all she suffering she went through. I like this character and how she helps Clint while he helps her.
Saving Haven sets the stage for a kind of instant love/protector relationship between Clint and Haven. He doesn’t want her to suffer any more and goes a little overboard trying to ensure her safety. He doesn’t want any more pain in her future.
I like watching Clint grow emotionally as he becomes more involved with Haven. She brings love back in his life and has him examining his feelings even though it makes him anxious. She gives him the strength to stand up to his father something he’s needed to do for a long time.
I love good support characters and we have that in this book. The support characters (Glove & Lordy) are perfect. What makes them so good is that they are a little mysterious and well developed. I'm questioning why everyone have a pseudonym? The secondary characters also shed light on Clint’s character and are good friends. They are people you want in your life. As a reader, I cry out to learn more about them.
Even though I would normally complain about this cliffhanger, the next book is available now so it isn’t really a cliffhanger and, therefore, start reading now.
This is the first book I’ve read by Xavier Neal but I will be looking for more. Good job!
Clint’s father (Sir) is the local sheriff. His relationship with his son is strained because he pulled away from him after the death of his wife. Sir is also deeply damaged when his wife passed. Over the years, instead of Sir loving his son and helping him deal with the loss of his mother he just shouts orders. This strange father/son relationship accounts for the hard exterior that Clint shows to the world.
Haven comes into Clint’s life when she escapes from the ogre that held her captive and physically, sexually and, emotionally abused her. Haven is beautiful with a loving and kind soul even after all she suffering she went through. I like this character and how she helps Clint while he helps her.
Saving Haven sets the stage for a kind of instant love/protector relationship between Clint and Haven. He doesn’t want her to suffer any more and goes a little overboard trying to ensure her safety. He doesn’t want any more pain in her future.
I like watching Clint grow emotionally as he becomes more involved with Haven. She brings love back in his life and has him examining his feelings even though it makes him anxious. She gives him the strength to stand up to his father something he’s needed to do for a long time.
I love good support characters and we have that in this book. The support characters (Glove & Lordy) are perfect. What makes them so good is that they are a little mysterious and well developed. I'm questioning why everyone have a pseudonym? The secondary characters also shed light on Clint’s character and are good friends. They are people you want in your life. As a reader, I cry out to learn more about them.
Even though I would normally complain about this cliffhanger, the next book is available now so it isn’t really a cliffhanger and, therefore, start reading now.
This is the first book I’ve read by Xavier Neal but I will be looking for more. Good job!
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March 1, 2015Clint – better known as Grim- is home on deployment. At the ripe age of 21, he has clearly been through some tough times. He has devoted his life since the age of 6, when he lost his mother, to closing off the world and devoting his life to living close to death. He has a strained relationship with his father, whom he often avoids. Grim makes no room in his life for emotions. Being a marine and a damn good one at that allows him just enough cockiness and protection he thinks, he can continue to live life like this until death decides to come for him on the battlefield.
But when Haven enters his life, all of that changes. He suddenly finds himself needing to take care of her and protect her. Because he can. Because he wants to – clearly understanding she has been thru hell and survived long enough to find her way to his front lawn. Clint doesn’t understand the changes in himself and neither do his friends. Haven releases all kinds of feelings in him, ones he swore he would never feel after the death of his mother. The wall he has built up around his heart begins to dismantle brick by brick. Protecting her is all that matters now but will he be able to - is the question.
A really touching beginning to their story! I immediately felt heart ache for both Clint and Haven as their circumstances prior to meeting were less than ideal. I really enjoyed learning about Clint and the moments where he looks back on times with his mother. A lot of insight into his past and the issues with his father helped me to understand his need to protect and love this woman he barely knows.
Just when you think there is a happy ending coming, another threat appears and Haven is again in need of saving. The twists in this story kept it interesting. Living thru the tension that was building, leading up for the moment when they both reveal their love, was tough but worth it in the end!
But when Haven enters his life, all of that changes. He suddenly finds himself needing to take care of her and protect her. Because he can. Because he wants to – clearly understanding she has been thru hell and survived long enough to find her way to his front lawn. Clint doesn’t understand the changes in himself and neither do his friends. Haven releases all kinds of feelings in him, ones he swore he would never feel after the death of his mother. The wall he has built up around his heart begins to dismantle brick by brick. Protecting her is all that matters now but will he be able to - is the question.
A really touching beginning to their story! I immediately felt heart ache for both Clint and Haven as their circumstances prior to meeting were less than ideal. I really enjoyed learning about Clint and the moments where he looks back on times with his mother. A lot of insight into his past and the issues with his father helped me to understand his need to protect and love this woman he barely knows.
Just when you think there is a happy ending coming, another threat appears and Haven is again in need of saving. The twists in this story kept it interesting. Living thru the tension that was building, leading up for the moment when they both reveal their love, was tough but worth it in the end!
January 13, 2015
Clint 'Grim' Walker is a damaged man. His mother died when he was ten. His father turned cold and distant, unable to deal with her death. Clint turned off all emotions in order to handle these losses. He has grown into a hard, cold man; emotionally shut off from the world. As a Marine, he gladly faces death.
Haven Davenport is a damaged young woman. Held captive for 4 yrs by a man who sexually and physically abused her, she manages to escape. Haven makes it as far as Clint's front yard before she collapses.
When Clint finds Haven, he immediately falls in love with her. Haven moves in with Clint and his dad. They both promise to protect her and help her get her life on track. Clint begins experiencing emotions and doesn't know how to handle them. His relationship with his dad begins to improve.
One day, the man who imprisoned Haven finds her. Clint kills him. End of Book 1.
This story had so many unanswered questions. 1) Why had so many of the characters in this neighborhood gotten new identities? 2) How were they able to create a new identity for Haven so quickly? 3) How was Haven able to trust Clint and the others so easily after what she had endured? Specifically, sleeping in Clint's arms with no hesitation? 4) Why didn't Haven experience myriad problems adjusting to being free? 5) Why did Clint act like such a child? 6) Why can't these people actually talk to each other instead of shutting down? 7) How did her captor track her down?
The premise of the story isn't a bad idea. I simply feel it could have been executed better. There are a lot of grammatical errors. There are no breaks between scenes, which can be a little confusing at first.
February 11, 2015
Not as good as Logan Motherfucking Keller, but it was a pretty good story. I love Xavier's writing style , so she basically can't do no wrong in my eyes. Took me a while to warm up to Clint. No wonder he was The Grim Reaper. Even reading his thoughts I got this cold emotionless feeling, but it all changes when he meets Haven. He starts becoming more human, and she breaks down that emotionless wall that Clint has build up and then you finally can't help but love the damn bastard. I loved the Dad though, you see all the mistakes he made but you still see him trying to make an effort with Clint and you can easily read the regret whenever Xavier gave us scenes with him and Clint. I maybe teared up a time or two. But ZOMG at that cliff hanger, now I'm really intrigued as to how this will end. Now much angst like in the Blind Series that makes you want to have heart palpitations, but some was there with that bitch Le Le. I hope Glove gives her AIDS or something, and it has that great sometimes sarcastic humor that X writes with. Now, ONTO THE FINALE!!!!!
November 17, 2014
3.5 stars
This book, I liked very much. I liked how sweet, possessive, and protective Grim was. He seemed like a douche, hardened, unfeeling at the beginning. But as soon as he laid eyes on Haven, he was awesome. I totally understood why Grim was unemotional. His mother died, and left him with his father who seemed just as unemotional as Grim. This book was sweet for the moat part. How Grim's behavior did a complete 180. How he was unfeeling before, and after Haven he felt almost too much. His relationship was still stilted with his father, but it got better towards the end. But still wasn't perfect. I would have liked more sex, but I undestood that it wasn't really appropriate after everything that Haven had gone through. My biggest complaint was the MOTHER CLUCKING CLIFFHANGER!!! I kept getting close to the end wondering what was happen. AND IT WAS NOTHING! Because it ended in a cliffhanger. But I WILL be reading the next book.
This book, I liked very much. I liked how sweet, possessive, and protective Grim was. He seemed like a douche, hardened, unfeeling at the beginning. But as soon as he laid eyes on Haven, he was awesome. I totally understood why Grim was unemotional. His mother died, and left him with his father who seemed just as unemotional as Grim. This book was sweet for the moat part. How Grim's behavior did a complete 180. How he was unfeeling before, and after Haven he felt almost too much. His relationship was still stilted with his father, but it got better towards the end. But still wasn't perfect. I would have liked more sex, but I undestood that it wasn't really appropriate after everything that Haven had gone through. My biggest complaint was the MOTHER CLUCKING CLIFFHANGER!!! I kept getting close to the end wondering what was happen. AND IT WAS NOTHING! Because it ended in a cliffhanger. But I WILL be reading the next book.
October 13, 2014
4 Sweet-Grim Stars
*Review to follow*
Havoc is a 4 Star read for me... it is nice to read an emotional male POV.
I love how Clint is so sweet and well, how bad ass he is when it comes to. his work.
There are scenes that I enjoyed and there some slow paced part but all in all. it is a nice read.
I would really love to. live in their village.. there are too many interesting people living in there and I admire how. good their community is.
With this book, I name Xavier Neal as a cliffhanger queen (evil laugh) but in all fairness, she writes so quick so the waiting for the next book is not that long. I will still read every book of this author.
I can't wait for the next book of Clint, i know it would be exciting.
*Review to follow*
Havoc is a 4 Star read for me... it is nice to read an emotional male POV.
I love how Clint is so sweet and well, how bad ass he is when it comes to. his work.
There are scenes that I enjoyed and there some slow paced part but all in all. it is a nice read.
I would really love to. live in their village.. there are too many interesting people living in there and I admire how. good their community is.
With this book, I name Xavier Neal as a cliffhanger queen (evil laugh) but in all fairness, she writes so quick so the waiting for the next book is not that long. I will still read every book of this author.
I can't wait for the next book of Clint, i know it would be exciting.
December 22, 2014
This book was given to me for an honest review!
Love Clint and Haven!! Clint and Haven are two hurt people who have you rooting for them to have a happy ending. Clint and his father never got over losing his mother/wife and Haven was held prisoner. I love how Clint is so protective of Haven and how Haven is still a strong woman despite what happen to her. The chemistry between them is steamy!! Every girl needs a Clint in her corner. Haven is not only good for Clint but for his dad too, but you have to read the book to find out how.
OMG! The ending had me shaking my kindle…….no way you can end a book like that. Talk about epic cliffhanger!! I am rooting for a happy ending for two characters that really deserve it! Bring on book two!!
Love Clint and Haven!! Clint and Haven are two hurt people who have you rooting for them to have a happy ending. Clint and his father never got over losing his mother/wife and Haven was held prisoner. I love how Clint is so protective of Haven and how Haven is still a strong woman despite what happen to her. The chemistry between them is steamy!! Every girl needs a Clint in her corner. Haven is not only good for Clint but for his dad too, but you have to read the book to find out how.
OMG! The ending had me shaking my kindle…….no way you can end a book like that. Talk about epic cliffhanger!! I am rooting for a happy ending for two characters that really deserve it! Bring on book two!!
January 11, 2015
Clint “Grim” Walker is in the Marines and is currently at home on leave. He doesn’t have the best of relationships with his father and is just looking forward to when he can leave and be on his next assignment. While on leave, he finds Haven unconscious in the yard. He immediately feels protective over her and vows to keep her safe. He doesn’t expect all the feelings he has towards Haven. She completely turns him upside down. He’s never felt for another girl what he feels for Haven.
Xavier takes us on a journey following Grim and Haven as they learn to heal each other. We feel the character’s emotions and passions with each day they grow together. I can’t wait to read more about Haven and Grim in book two.
Xavier takes us on a journey following Grim and Haven as they learn to heal each other. We feel the character’s emotions and passions with each day they grow together. I can’t wait to read more about Haven and Grim in book two.
January 11, 2016
4.5 Stars
Clint "Grim" Walker is on leave from the marines. He only has one dream in life, Special Ops, his life is the Army. His friends are the Army, he has no desire to return to his loveless home with his very strained relationship with his father. Things change for Grim (and his father) when he finds a bruised and battered Haven on his front lawn. His world is turned upside down and he will do anything to protect her. Haven and Clint build up a relationship based on trust and love, all the neighbours rally round to ensure that things go smoothly, even though a couple of he neighbours jealous children try and put a spanner in the works. Can Clint save her when her past comes back to haunt her? Really enjoyed this story and so looking forward to book 2
Clint "Grim" Walker is on leave from the marines. He only has one dream in life, Special Ops, his life is the Army. His friends are the Army, he has no desire to return to his loveless home with his very strained relationship with his father. Things change for Grim (and his father) when he finds a bruised and battered Haven on his front lawn. His world is turned upside down and he will do anything to protect her. Haven and Clint build up a relationship based on trust and love, all the neighbours rally round to ensure that things go smoothly, even though a couple of he neighbours jealous children try and put a spanner in the works. Can Clint save her when her past comes back to haunt her? Really enjoyed this story and so looking forward to book 2
January 22, 2016
This is an incredible story. It's about family, love,friendship, respect honour, determination and loyalty. I gave loved every minute of it. I love Clint, he's strong and yet vulnerable, he's loyal, committed to his country and the marines. Heaven is such a strong character, even though she sometimes appears weak and unsure, she had an inner strength that drives her forward. Together these two embark on a journey that will change their lives. I love how all the characters have their lives connected on some level and how they are always there for each other regardless of what's going on, no questions asked, unconditionally. I'm so glad Bois two is out because what a cliffhanger to end this fabulous first book!
November 5, 2014
I am sitting here wondering about all of these 5 star reviews. I thought the book was extremely clipped, choppy and cold. Insta-love where it made no sense and nothing was really explained. I felt nothing about or for these 2 characters and thought they were poorly developed as was the story itself. Maybe it was the style of writing, I don't know, but this was not a 5 star read for me. The editing mistakes alone were distracting. I would not even give it 3 stars really, so 2.5 maybe but I actually could not even quite finish it. The blurb made it sound so good but the execution was not and then a surprise cliff -hanger ending.
March 13, 2015
Brilliantly written, gripping from the beginning to the end. Clint "Grim" Walker is a very conditioned Marine both mentally and physically. When he loses his mother at the tender age of 10, he loses so much more. Growing up he begins to work himself hard bot emotionally and physically. He becomes hard, he pushes all emotion away and is now a Marine with focus. Until, he finds an angel on his lawn. Slowly, Haven begins to pull down his walls, he realizes there is more to life, than death, destruction, focus, and no feelings. He wants to serve and protect more than his country. This book is going to leave you with a slight cliff hanger, Thank God I have the next book to jump into.
October 10, 2014
Clint “Grim” is a hard and cold man. He has been taught by the best his father who after losing his wife raised client to be a perfect Marine. The back and forth with the present and past gets a little confusing and is hard to follow. He meets Haven who he found but we don’t get a ton of info on her. She is weak and you wonder about how her character will get more developed.
I am hoping since the book ended on a cliffy we get more in book two about her.
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next installment.
I am hoping since the book ended on a cliffy we get more in book two about her.
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next installment.
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