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Hover
Helicopter pilot Lt. Sara Denning joins a navy battle group with little fanfare—and that's just the way she likes it. After her brother Ian's tragic death, her career path seemed obvious: step into his shoes and enter the Naval Academy, despite her fear of water. Sara's philosophy is simple—blend in, be competent, and above all, never do anything to stand out as a woman in a man's world.
Somewhere along the way, Sara lost herself—her feminine, easygoing soul is now buried under so many defensive layers, she can't reach it anymore.
When she meets strong, self-assured Lt. Eric Marxen, her defenses start to falter. Eric coordinates flight operations for a Navy SEAL team that requests Sara as the exclusive pilot. This blatant show of favoritism causes conflict with the other pilots; Sara's sexist boss seems intent on making her life miserable, and her roommate and best friend, the only other woman on the ship, is avoiding her. It doesn't help that her interactions with Eric leave her reeling.
The endgame of the SEALs' mission is so secret, even Sara doesn't know the reason behind her mandated participation. Soon, though, the training missions become real, and Sara must overcome her fears before they plunge her into danger. When Sara's life is on the line, can she find her true self again and follow the orders of her heart before it is too late?
Anne A. Wilson's Hover is a thrilling, emotional women's journey written by a groundbreaking former navy pilot.
Somewhere along the way, Sara lost herself—her feminine, easygoing soul is now buried under so many defensive layers, she can't reach it anymore.
When she meets strong, self-assured Lt. Eric Marxen, her defenses start to falter. Eric coordinates flight operations for a Navy SEAL team that requests Sara as the exclusive pilot. This blatant show of favoritism causes conflict with the other pilots; Sara's sexist boss seems intent on making her life miserable, and her roommate and best friend, the only other woman on the ship, is avoiding her. It doesn't help that her interactions with Eric leave her reeling.
The endgame of the SEALs' mission is so secret, even Sara doesn't know the reason behind her mandated participation. Soon, though, the training missions become real, and Sara must overcome her fears before they plunge her into danger. When Sara's life is on the line, can she find her true self again and follow the orders of her heart before it is too late?
Anne A. Wilson's Hover is a thrilling, emotional women's journey written by a groundbreaking former navy pilot.
320 pages, Paperback
First published June 2, 2015
44 people are currently reading
1448 people want to read
About the author
Anne A. Wilson
2 books123 followersAnne A. Wilson lives with her husband and two sons in Fountain Hills, Arizona. When not writing, Anne spends her days on a pool deck coaching triathletes and teaching adults how to swim. She has also worked in the semiconductor industry, and prior to that, served nine years active duty as a navy helicopter pilot, which included three years of search and rescue flying in the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada in California. Her debut novel, HOVER (Macmillan - Tor/Forge), released in June 2015. Her second novel, CLEAR TO LIFT (Macmillan - Tor/Forge), released July 12, 2016.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
February 12, 2021
Although I'm only at 70%, I can easily say this is an exceptional story.
July 16, 2015
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
"Frigid water fills the cockpit. It seeps into my boots and crawls up my flight suit, slipping through the zippers and finding ever seam."
These are the first two sentences in HOVER. The story contained a kick-a** female with insecurities, a hero to die for, enough action to make you feel as though you were on a roller-coaster ride and plenty of military technology. It is very pro-American. And this is the first time that I would love to write a review but can't; I fear I will give something away.
"Frigid water fills the cockpit. It seeps into my boots and crawls up my flight suit, slipping through the zippers and finding ever seam."
These are the first two sentences in HOVER. The story contained a kick-a** female with insecurities, a hero to die for, enough action to make you feel as though you were on a roller-coaster ride and plenty of military technology. It is very pro-American. And this is the first time that I would love to write a review but can't; I fear I will give something away.
January 1, 2016
Romantic Suspense Unforgettable
Once in a great while, I will pick up a novel and, within a page or two, recognize that it's a rare find, a truly gifted author, a book worth far more than 5 stars.
This is it. A stunning debut novel with remarkable realism. Absolutely brilliant...breathtaking even.
I give this book my highest recommendation, even for my friends who don't hang out in the romance genre. On the spectrum between romance and suspense, this tips a bit more toward suspense. Actually, scratch that, it has the earmarks of a thriller, but the romance feels gut-wrenchingly real.
I don't give out many five star reviews, so you can believe me when I say this one really is worth the read.
There are just a few bad words, and, surprisingly, the one intimate scene is behind closed doors. This is a stand-alone.
Once in a great while, I will pick up a novel and, within a page or two, recognize that it's a rare find, a truly gifted author, a book worth far more than 5 stars.
This is it. A stunning debut novel with remarkable realism. Absolutely brilliant...breathtaking even.
I give this book my highest recommendation, even for my friends who don't hang out in the romance genre. On the spectrum between romance and suspense, this tips a bit more toward suspense. Actually, scratch that, it has the earmarks of a thriller, but the romance feels gut-wrenchingly real.
I don't give out many five star reviews, so you can believe me when I say this one really is worth the read.
There are just a few bad words, and, surprisingly, the one intimate scene is behind closed doors. This is a stand-alone.
March 13, 2023
I hoped that I would enjoy it more.
As Linda summarized: "The story contained a kick-a** female with insecurities, a hero to die for, enough action to make you feel as though you were on a roller-coaster ride and plenty of military technology. It is very pro-American."
The hero is exactly so: "to die for". He is like a knight from a medieval romance or a fairy-tale. I think all fans of romances sigh and swoon dreaming about such heroes, me too ;-) But for me it is almost the only one thing I liked in this novel. I can't judge the military facts, but I hope Anne A. Wilson with experience as a navy helicopter pilot knew what she wrote. For me it was too overwhelming (military language and so on) and therefore at the end - boring.
It wasn't a book which one "savors". I was interested how it all ends up but I haven't much pleasure in reading it.
[You know, there are books in which you read almost every word with delight, and books which you want to finish because you are curious enough to go through.]
The more I think about it, the more I think it was some kind of a modern fairy-tale. Too perfect characters, too much black and white world. Nonetheless I feel some potential in Anne A. Wilson but she should think over about genre which fit her more. I am afraid that a serious adult book/romance isn't for her. More like a young adult romance/adventure book.
As Linda summarized: "The story contained a kick-a** female with insecurities, a hero to die for, enough action to make you feel as though you were on a roller-coaster ride and plenty of military technology. It is very pro-American."
The hero is exactly so: "to die for". He is like a knight from a medieval romance or a fairy-tale. I think all fans of romances sigh and swoon dreaming about such heroes, me too ;-) But for me it is almost the only one thing I liked in this novel. I can't judge the military facts, but I hope Anne A. Wilson with experience as a navy helicopter pilot knew what she wrote. For me it was too overwhelming (military language and so on) and therefore at the end - boring.
It wasn't a book which one "savors". I was interested how it all ends up but I haven't much pleasure in reading it.
[You know, there are books in which you read almost every word with delight, and books which you want to finish because you are curious enough to go through.]
The more I think about it, the more I think it was some kind of a modern fairy-tale. Too perfect characters, too much black and white world. Nonetheless I feel some potential in Anne A. Wilson but she should think over about genre which fit her more. I am afraid that a serious adult book/romance isn't for her. More like a young adult romance/adventure book.
April 2, 2016
Fantastic. Hover is a book that just gets better and better.
I initially read a sample of the first 100 pages of this book. I was highly intrigued from the very first page. In fact, I loved every one of those 100 pages. But the question is, having now read the whole book, do I still love it? Yes. Resoundingly, YES! In fact this book only gets better and better. My previous comments stand: I was blown away with how great it was. I was sucked in from page one. I was laughing, intrigued, excited. I wanted more. I wanted to know what happened next.
Lieutenant Sara Denning never planned on joining the navy. She is only there because her brother, one more man in a very long line of Denning military men, isn't. But for someone who wasn't going to join up, she's pretty good at what she does. There is just one problem- she's terrified of water. Luckily, being a helicopter pilot gets her as far away from the water as one can in the navy. During a flight that turns dangerous due to bad weather, Sara's flying skill is noticed and, finally, appreciated. She and her crew are stranded on the Lake Champlain, a guided-missile cruiser, due to the storm, where Sara meets Eric Marxen, a handsome and kind Lieutenant (yes, you can start swooning now) who opens doors for Sara and yet still treats her with the respect befitting her military role. Sara can't get him out of her head, nor can she figure out why he has knowledge of top secret information and is in charge of high-ranking training exercises, all of which feature a SEAL team and orders for Sara to be at the controls of the helicopter.
As the story progresses, the reader is provided with a fantastic mix of military action and romantic tension. One minute you are onboard a H-64 helicopter landing on a ship in fierce seas, the next navigating the sparks that start flying between Sara and Eric. But the real focus of Hover, the real star is Sara herself. Introverted, tough-on-the-outside Sara, who is professional, an expert marksman and a brilliant pilot. Sara, who endeavors everyday to do her job, do it well and prove to those around her, and to herself, that she belongs. The other characters are varied and brilliant. I loved the banter between Sara and her aircrew, Lego and Messy. I loved to hate (or maybe just fume at) Lieutenant Commander Claggett. But honestly, the best bit of this book is the last quarter. The action just keeps building and building.
I really liked the writing style in Hover, which is engaging to the point of must-not-put-this-book-down. There is plenty of navy jargon and facts to make the book feel totally realistic, yet the style is also lyrical and I was never overwhelmed with acronyms or words I didn’t know. Information about things like the carrier strike group and different ships or aircraft is seamlessly integrated with the story (no lengthy or boring info-dumps here). Hover is also dialog rich, reflective and humorous, which makes it so very readable. I think what I loved most of all about Hover, though, is that it was written by someone who was out there doing crazy, brave, amazing things like Sara. It brings such an air of authority and authenticity to the book.
If you want a book with military action, a strong but secretly terrified female heroine, a great cast of secondary characters, plenty of suspense, navy SEALs, an awesome writing style and romance then Hover is the book for you. Highly recommended.
Fiction. Contemporary. Women's fiction. Military fiction.
The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Find this review and more like it on my blog Madison's Library.
I initially read a sample of the first 100 pages of this book. I was highly intrigued from the very first page. In fact, I loved every one of those 100 pages. But the question is, having now read the whole book, do I still love it? Yes. Resoundingly, YES! In fact this book only gets better and better. My previous comments stand: I was blown away with how great it was. I was sucked in from page one. I was laughing, intrigued, excited. I wanted more. I wanted to know what happened next.
Lieutenant Sara Denning never planned on joining the navy. She is only there because her brother, one more man in a very long line of Denning military men, isn't. But for someone who wasn't going to join up, she's pretty good at what she does. There is just one problem- she's terrified of water. Luckily, being a helicopter pilot gets her as far away from the water as one can in the navy. During a flight that turns dangerous due to bad weather, Sara's flying skill is noticed and, finally, appreciated. She and her crew are stranded on the Lake Champlain, a guided-missile cruiser, due to the storm, where Sara meets Eric Marxen, a handsome and kind Lieutenant (yes, you can start swooning now) who opens doors for Sara and yet still treats her with the respect befitting her military role. Sara can't get him out of her head, nor can she figure out why he has knowledge of top secret information and is in charge of high-ranking training exercises, all of which feature a SEAL team and orders for Sara to be at the controls of the helicopter.
As the story progresses, the reader is provided with a fantastic mix of military action and romantic tension. One minute you are onboard a H-64 helicopter landing on a ship in fierce seas, the next navigating the sparks that start flying between Sara and Eric. But the real focus of Hover, the real star is Sara herself. Introverted, tough-on-the-outside Sara, who is professional, an expert marksman and a brilliant pilot. Sara, who endeavors everyday to do her job, do it well and prove to those around her, and to herself, that she belongs. The other characters are varied and brilliant. I loved the banter between Sara and her aircrew, Lego and Messy. I loved to hate (or maybe just fume at) Lieutenant Commander Claggett. But honestly, the best bit of this book is the last quarter. The action just keeps building and building.
I really liked the writing style in Hover, which is engaging to the point of must-not-put-this-book-down. There is plenty of navy jargon and facts to make the book feel totally realistic, yet the style is also lyrical and I was never overwhelmed with acronyms or words I didn’t know. Information about things like the carrier strike group and different ships or aircraft is seamlessly integrated with the story (no lengthy or boring info-dumps here). Hover is also dialog rich, reflective and humorous, which makes it so very readable. I think what I loved most of all about Hover, though, is that it was written by someone who was out there doing crazy, brave, amazing things like Sara. It brings such an air of authority and authenticity to the book.
If you want a book with military action, a strong but secretly terrified female heroine, a great cast of secondary characters, plenty of suspense, navy SEALs, an awesome writing style and romance then Hover is the book for you. Highly recommended.
Fiction. Contemporary. Women's fiction. Military fiction.
The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Find this review and more like it on my blog Madison's Library.
August 5, 2023
I really appreciate that this was written by someone who served as a navy helicopter pilot, which was why I was excited to read an accurate portrayal of military life. However, one thing I know from marrying a vet is that servicemen basically speak a completely different language sometimes. And Wilson used a bit too much of that here. I'm sure other servicemen would understand it, but for those of us that haven't served, she didn't provide enough explanation of some things and too many details of others. It was still an entertaining story though and there were aspects of it that I liked.
April 10, 2015
I was able to download a preview of this book from netgalley... the first 15 chapters... loved it. :) Definitely want to get my hands on the full book when it's released this summer!
The story revolves around a female pilot in the Navy. I loved getting a taste of what life is actually like when you're stuck on a ship in the ocean. There is a very appealing budding romance between her and another officer that has me anticipating what will happen next. Also, a very emotional side story involving her brother which is a mystery that has yet to unfold.
This story is really well written and just sucks you in... I felt as if I was actually on the boat rocking along with it as it gets tumbled around by the ocean waters. The times when she is in flight I was definitely on edge. I'm completely and totally impressed with how these pilots land on these boats that never sit still.
Keep an eye out for this title that's coming June 2nd... especially if you like military themed romances...
Preview provided by Macmillan Publishing
The story revolves around a female pilot in the Navy. I loved getting a taste of what life is actually like when you're stuck on a ship in the ocean. There is a very appealing budding romance between her and another officer that has me anticipating what will happen next. Also, a very emotional side story involving her brother which is a mystery that has yet to unfold.
This story is really well written and just sucks you in... I felt as if I was actually on the boat rocking along with it as it gets tumbled around by the ocean waters. The times when she is in flight I was definitely on edge. I'm completely and totally impressed with how these pilots land on these boats that never sit still.
Keep an eye out for this title that's coming June 2nd... especially if you like military themed romances...
Preview provided by Macmillan Publishing
August 31, 2021
Action romance and mystery complete with Navy Seals and a bad a** heroine! What more could I ask for?
TW: attempted rape, sexism
TW: attempted rape, sexism
June 15, 2018
This story was fantastic. Inspired by the experience of the author, I got a chance to see the life of a female naval helicopter pilot. And the missions were so exciting. There are lot of great elements in this story... the sequencing and mystery of the plot was done very well, pacing was good. Character development really picked up at the end. Her descriptions were so detailed, at times I could feel myself rocking from side to side like I was on a carrier. Not many people can create that illusion. And her background made it a very authentic experience. Even though I couldn't tell what any of those numbers meant. Flight jargon is not in my vocabulary. Need a strong female protagonist? This story has it.
October 27, 2016
I was hovering in the audio section of my library (you see what I did there!?), and I found this book. I was hesitant about checking this one out as I thought it might be too "romancie" for my liking. However, I loved the title, and it seemed meant to be in that moment. I'm so happy I did so because I loved this debut book! Yes, there is romance, but there are many other well written relationships as well. As I read (well, listened to this one if I am honest), I was frequently reminded of the author's military background. She told a great, believable, and knowledgeable story. A great journey. I will definitely be reading her other book.
October 19, 2020
2-2.5 stars..
There were parts that I enjoyed in this book, like all the military information that you don't normally see in military romances, but I think I couldn't connect with Sara as much as I would have liked.
I also didn't feel the connection as much between her and Eric... I had high expectations going in to this book since it had such high ratings both on Goodreads and Amazon, but you shouldn't always take that as the final word and I am learning that.
This book to me wasn't worth the $7.99 or whatever it was on kindle... This had the makings for a great book but fell flat for me, unfortunately.
There were parts that I enjoyed in this book, like all the military information that you don't normally see in military romances, but I think I couldn't connect with Sara as much as I would have liked.
I also didn't feel the connection as much between her and Eric... I had high expectations going in to this book since it had such high ratings both on Goodreads and Amazon, but you shouldn't always take that as the final word and I am learning that.
This book to me wasn't worth the $7.99 or whatever it was on kindle... This had the makings for a great book but fell flat for me, unfortunately.
August 28, 2014
I was lucky enough to snag an advanced copy of this book, and I absolutely fell in love with it. It's the type of book you can curl alongside a fire with or read by a shore with your favorite beverage on hand.
Anne Wilson's characters get under your skin and stay there. Sara is so put together on the surface . . . and yet not. And Eric? Let's just say I'm a huge fan ;-)
Pick up this book and watch as the words dissolve from the page. I adored every moment of it, and I can't wait to see what Anne writes next.
Anne Wilson's characters get under your skin and stay there. Sara is so put together on the surface . . . and yet not. And Eric? Let's just say I'm a huge fan ;-)
Pick up this book and watch as the words dissolve from the page. I adored every moment of it, and I can't wait to see what Anne writes next.
August 6, 2016
I am not sure that I ever have stopped reading a book at the halfway mark to come to Goodreads and give it a 5-star rating but I did last night for Hover.
And now that I am done (after staying up until 2am to read), I am still firm in the belief that this is an absolutely fantastic book. That this is the author's debut is even more impressive.
Perfectly executed, solid, exciting writing and a wonderful, strong heroine to root for. I don't think I can say enough good things about this book, beside it is a Must Read. I didn't want it to end.
Highly, HIGHLY recommend!
And now that I am done (after staying up until 2am to read), I am still firm in the belief that this is an absolutely fantastic book. That this is the author's debut is even more impressive.
Perfectly executed, solid, exciting writing and a wonderful, strong heroine to root for. I don't think I can say enough good things about this book, beside it is a Must Read. I didn't want it to end.
Highly, HIGHLY recommend!
October 12, 2022
Meh. The heroine is an insecure woman who keeps berating herself. It gets old pretty quickly. The hero is fine, I guess. Mostly boring and way too patient with the heroine. It’s pretty much love at first sight and I didn’t feel their chemistry.
And that other woman who’s supposed to be the heroine’s best friend? 🤢 who needs a self-centered, b!tchy friend like that in their lives?
It was a pretty technical read overall and I didn’t have any motivation to remember all those words and terms and descriptions of this or that. 😬
And that other woman who’s supposed to be the heroine’s best friend? 🤢 who needs a self-centered, b!tchy friend like that in their lives?
It was a pretty technical read overall and I didn’t have any motivation to remember all those words and terms and descriptions of this or that. 😬
June 3, 2016
I saw this novel a couple times at my local bookstore and wasn't sure about it. It's military fiction, which I'm often drawn to, but it also sounded kind of romancy. I worried it would be too far on the romance side for my tastes. Plus, the officer's hair on the cover is unsat. :)
At the mention of Navy SEALs on the back cover blurb, red flags starting unfurling in the back of my mind. I'm not blind, I've seen the covers in the romance section where SEALs seem to be code for Steamy Erotic Amazing Licentious Sex, which is great, but not what I'm currently into reading. On the other hand, I reasoned with myself, standing there in front of the new book table at my local bookstore, Wilson is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and she did serve in the Navy as a helicopter pilot for nine years, so maybe there will be some good action of the military variety. I took a chance and bought it.
So glad I did!
The military action seems realistic without being overly or insecurely technical in detail and the military woman's perspective & experience is highly accurate, from dealing with self-doubts, to the misogynistic culture, to the BS from individual men, to the strong bonds sometimes formed with other women.
In one scene an arrogant male pilot with the call sign Bull (as in bullshit, but also perhaps a nod to Pat Conroy's thinly fictionalized father, Bull Meechum in The Great Santini hits on Sara in a social setting when she's out of uniform. Bull talks nonstop about himself and asks her zero questions, probably assuming he's wowing her. She obviously knows he's full of shit and distractedly listens as he piles lie atop lie. When her friend arrives and the truth comes out, that Sara is an Academy grad, "Bull's drunken smile turns to a scowl, "Bitch," he says, before marching away." That scene nicely encapsulates what military experience can be like for women.
On her website Wilson has a "Pictorial Glossary" of the helicopters and ships featured in Hover, which is pretty cool. I served as landlubber in the Marine Corps in the 1980s and can't imagine the pressures Wilson experienced as a Naval pilot in the 1990s. I've often wished I'd joined the Navy for a chance to serve aboard ship. (Sssh! Don't tell anyone I said that, it's sacrilegious.)
The romance doesn't steal the show nor is it completely unrealistic (no silly scenes where they're off having a hot quickie in the back of a helicopter), but is actually integral to the main character's growth.
In addition to showing the missions Sara flies, her professional challenges, emotional struggles, and budding romance, Wilson also depicts the less glamorous side of military life such as shore patrol duty, obligatory social events, and negotiating the wardroom. Although there is camaraderie, there's also politics and jerky or even dangerous coworkers, as in many work situations.
There's an underlying vibe that I appreciated about this novel: there is no over-the-top glorification of war or service here. For the most part, it's humble people doing their duty, proud of the important work they do. Except for the bad guy, of course, ain't nothing humble about him. Also touching is that Sara is not the only character trying to heal from a past trauma.
Overall, Hover is the best fictional depiction of a women in the military that I've read to date. I'm looking forward to Wilson's second book, Clear to Lift, even if it looks like it will feature a new cast of characters. That's right, after all my trepidation about the romantic elements of this novel, I want to know how things end up for Sara and Eric!
At the mention of Navy SEALs on the back cover blurb, red flags starting unfurling in the back of my mind. I'm not blind, I've seen the covers in the romance section where SEALs seem to be code for Steamy Erotic Amazing Licentious Sex, which is great, but not what I'm currently into reading. On the other hand, I reasoned with myself, standing there in front of the new book table at my local bookstore, Wilson is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and she did serve in the Navy as a helicopter pilot for nine years, so maybe there will be some good action of the military variety. I took a chance and bought it.
So glad I did!
The military action seems realistic without being overly or insecurely technical in detail and the military woman's perspective & experience is highly accurate, from dealing with self-doubts, to the misogynistic culture, to the BS from individual men, to the strong bonds sometimes formed with other women.
In one scene an arrogant male pilot with the call sign Bull (as in bullshit, but also perhaps a nod to Pat Conroy's thinly fictionalized father, Bull Meechum in The Great Santini hits on Sara in a social setting when she's out of uniform. Bull talks nonstop about himself and asks her zero questions, probably assuming he's wowing her. She obviously knows he's full of shit and distractedly listens as he piles lie atop lie. When her friend arrives and the truth comes out, that Sara is an Academy grad, "Bull's drunken smile turns to a scowl, "Bitch," he says, before marching away." That scene nicely encapsulates what military experience can be like for women.
On her website Wilson has a "Pictorial Glossary" of the helicopters and ships featured in Hover, which is pretty cool. I served as landlubber in the Marine Corps in the 1980s and can't imagine the pressures Wilson experienced as a Naval pilot in the 1990s. I've often wished I'd joined the Navy for a chance to serve aboard ship. (Sssh! Don't tell anyone I said that, it's sacrilegious.)
The romance doesn't steal the show nor is it completely unrealistic (no silly scenes where they're off having a hot quickie in the back of a helicopter), but is actually integral to the main character's growth.
In addition to showing the missions Sara flies, her professional challenges, emotional struggles, and budding romance, Wilson also depicts the less glamorous side of military life such as shore patrol duty, obligatory social events, and negotiating the wardroom. Although there is camaraderie, there's also politics and jerky or even dangerous coworkers, as in many work situations.
There's an underlying vibe that I appreciated about this novel: there is no over-the-top glorification of war or service here. For the most part, it's humble people doing their duty, proud of the important work they do. Except for the bad guy, of course, ain't nothing humble about him. Also touching is that Sara is not the only character trying to heal from a past trauma.
Overall, Hover is the best fictional depiction of a women in the military that I've read to date. I'm looking forward to Wilson's second book, Clear to Lift, even if it looks like it will feature a new cast of characters. That's right, after all my trepidation about the romantic elements of this novel, I want to know how things end up for Sara and Eric!
June 14, 2023
A very bad written book in general. The only kind of interesting asspect of it was the plot, but even with that there were so many holes, so many detailed descriptions of the military part of it not well written, that in the end i just wanted to reach the end and be done with it.
The characters were so bad written, one-dimensional and stereotypical, while the FM had so much PTSD and trauma to unload, but it was never delted with it properly (for example, she never asked for help from a specialist, she was having panic attacks while on duty, putting hers and her collegue's lifes in danger). She had such a huge internalised misoginy problem, but it was never trully adressed. I know very well how things work in the military with the hole "misoginistic/testosteronian" enviroment, but it was very badly approached.
Also, the romance was forced, they didn't had anything in common, their interactions were few and so anti-romantic, that nothing made sense. He showed her the minimum respect that is required between collegues and she fell in love with him? REALLY?
Overall, bad written, disappointing and left me with a big frustratoin towards women who don't work with themselves to get rid of all the misoginy this society continues instills in us.
The characters were so bad written, one-dimensional and stereotypical, while the FM had so much PTSD and trauma to unload, but it was never delted with it properly (for example, she never asked for help from a specialist, she was having panic attacks while on duty, putting hers and her collegue's lifes in danger). She had such a huge internalised misoginy problem, but it was never trully adressed. I know very well how things work in the military with the hole "misoginistic/testosteronian" enviroment, but it was very badly approached.
Also, the romance was forced, they didn't had anything in common, their interactions were few and so anti-romantic, that nothing made sense. He showed her the minimum respect that is required between collegues and she fell in love with him? REALLY?
Overall, bad written, disappointing and left me with a big frustratoin towards women who don't work with themselves to get rid of all the misoginy this society continues instills in us.
February 22, 2022
DNF
I was so disappointed in this book. I went into the is book expecting too much. I have recently read two amazing books about female soldiers and their experiences in a male dominated field and I was hopelessly searching for more books like them when I came across this book. But instead of an action packed, heart wrenching story I came across this pitiful excuse of a military romance.
I found many of the characters annoying and painful to read about (Emily in particular) and the romance was actually unnecessary, it wasn't the main focal point and it didn't bring anything to the table. I could fill many A4 pages with reasons why I wouldn't recommend this book but like this book it would waste my time and yours.
All in all I'm glad kindle offers refunds because I definitely wasted four euro and two hours of my day trying to read this book.
I was so disappointed in this book. I went into the is book expecting too much. I have recently read two amazing books about female soldiers and their experiences in a male dominated field and I was hopelessly searching for more books like them when I came across this book. But instead of an action packed, heart wrenching story I came across this pitiful excuse of a military romance.
I found many of the characters annoying and painful to read about (Emily in particular) and the romance was actually unnecessary, it wasn't the main focal point and it didn't bring anything to the table. I could fill many A4 pages with reasons why I wouldn't recommend this book but like this book it would waste my time and yours.
All in all I'm glad kindle offers refunds because I definitely wasted four euro and two hours of my day trying to read this book.
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September 11, 2024dnf 63%
April 15, 2020
I'm a european teenager so this book was really difficult for me to comprehend, but I still enjoyed it a lot!
November 29, 2015
If I were giving this a letter grade, I'd give it a B.
Solid little debut novel.
Sara Denning has issues with water (stemming from the death of her brother), but that doesn't stop her from being an uber-competent Navy helicopter pilot. In fact, she's really good at everything her job requires of her: flying choppers, shooting a pistol, dismantling and reassembling a weapon, spouting off rules and regulations... (This, by the way, is a slight negative about the book. I'm not a fan of heroines who are so competent at everything. I get that the author is making the point that woman in the armed services can be every bit as capable as men, but I think she overdid it a little.)
But Sara keeps a tight lid on her femininity and doesn't socialize much. Part of this is because she lives in a military world, a male-dominated world where some men hold her gender against her. So she tries to keep a low profile. The rest of it is because she's been on mental/emotional lock-down since (once again) the death of her brother.
So the book is largely about how she meets and gets involved with Eric Marxen (another military officer and another paragon of perfection, another slight negative about the book), the military operations (covert and otherwise) they are involved in, and how she learns to start resolving her issues.
Now, except for the early Suzanne Brockmann books, I'm not particularly a "SEAL" person. But if you are, and you enjoy stories that take place in a military setting--in this case, you'll learn about the the life of a Navy helicopter pilot and life on a Navy ship in general--this book might be just your cup of tea. I have to say I found all of the author's descriptions and explanations of Naval life and helicopter protocols and maneuvers to be very, very interesting. The action sequences (the "thriller" part, I guess you'd say) were pretty exciting.
The romance for me was kind of simple, maybe a bit cliched as written, but still nice. I'd rate it "warm"--a brief moment where they decide to have sex, otherwise just hugs and kisses. Basically, you have two upstanding, nice-looking people who are super-competent at many things, but who have to work a few things out and learn to trust each other on the road to happiness.
The denouement was a series of "kumbaya" moments, with even the orneriest of characters suddenly getting all sappy.
All in all, it's a nice little debut, noteworthy chiefly for the military setting and the inside look at the life of a Naval helicopter pilot. It reminded me of the kind of military romance I might have read in college/my 20s.
Edited to add: A couple of nitpicks I forgot to mention:
Solid little debut novel.
Sara Denning has issues with water (stemming from the death of her brother), but that doesn't stop her from being an uber-competent Navy helicopter pilot. In fact, she's really good at everything her job requires of her: flying choppers, shooting a pistol, dismantling and reassembling a weapon, spouting off rules and regulations... (This, by the way, is a slight negative about the book. I'm not a fan of heroines who are so competent at everything. I get that the author is making the point that woman in the armed services can be every bit as capable as men, but I think she overdid it a little.)
But Sara keeps a tight lid on her femininity and doesn't socialize much. Part of this is because she lives in a military world, a male-dominated world where some men hold her gender against her. So she tries to keep a low profile. The rest of it is because she's been on mental/emotional lock-down since (once again) the death of her brother.
So the book is largely about how she meets and gets involved with Eric Marxen (another military officer and another paragon of perfection, another slight negative about the book), the military operations (covert and otherwise) they are involved in, and how she learns to start resolving her issues.
Now, except for the early Suzanne Brockmann books, I'm not particularly a "SEAL" person. But if you are, and you enjoy stories that take place in a military setting--in this case, you'll learn about the the life of a Navy helicopter pilot and life on a Navy ship in general--this book might be just your cup of tea. I have to say I found all of the author's descriptions and explanations of Naval life and helicopter protocols and maneuvers to be very, very interesting. The action sequences (the "thriller" part, I guess you'd say) were pretty exciting.
The romance for me was kind of simple, maybe a bit cliched as written, but still nice. I'd rate it "warm"--a brief moment where they decide to have sex, otherwise just hugs and kisses. Basically, you have two upstanding, nice-looking people who are super-competent at many things, but who have to work a few things out and learn to trust each other on the road to happiness.
The denouement was a series of "kumbaya" moments, with even the orneriest of characters suddenly getting all sappy.
All in all, it's a nice little debut, noteworthy chiefly for the military setting and the inside look at the life of a Naval helicopter pilot. It reminded me of the kind of military romance I might have read in college/my 20s.
Edited to add: A couple of nitpicks I forgot to mention:
November 18, 2015
Anne A. Wilson’s Hover delivers an intense roller coaster ride, plunging readers in the deep end from the get go as the book opens with Sara trapped underwater. My own lungs clamored for air as Sara navigated her escape plan, her oxygen running out.
A navy pilot herself, Wilson afforded an unparalleled level of realism to her plot that had me standing on the ship feeling the salty wind or flying the helicopter, its rotors whipping overhead. Wilson placed me in the center of the action without convoluting the story with technical mumbo jumbo present in many debut novels. In fact, for a while, I had to keep reminding myself that this was her first book, she had me so entrenched in Sara and Eric’s story. Unfortunately, that seemed to change after the half-way mark.
While briefly on land, Sara and Eric hook up, falling just short of turning into a full-blown sex scene that still went further than I cared or needed to know. From then on, the chemistry that had crackled between the protagonists fizzled out and their relationship turned into something out of a soap opera. They resembled the unrealistic caricatures found in Emily’s (Sara’s roommate) Harlequin novels (thankfully, without any further bedroom scenes) instead of people I might encounter in real life.
I still enjoyed the military side of the story — Sara’s missions, and her relationship with her team — I just couldn’t care less what happened to Sara and Eric as a couple. Protective or not, Eric crossed some lines he had no right to, making decisions about Sara’s direction that weren’t his to make. On the other hand, strong, independent Sara became a whiny, needy high school girl who feels slighted by the cute boy in school. This saddened me considering how much I liked them in the beginning. The villain too felt like the stereotypical bad guy plucked out of a Harlequin novel, created only to make the protagonists look good. This person could be seen coming a mile away, leaving little mystery in that department.
Had the entire book followed this pattern from the start, the let down wouldn’t have been so acute. I would have settled in for an average story, good for a one-time read. The strong beginning, however, led me to expect more, causing my disappointment. Readers should also prepare for foul language, which did nothing to enhance the story.
For the most part, it offers an entertaining read that military suspense fans might enjoy. I am looking forward to her next book. After all, this is Wilson’s debut novel, so I have hopes for her.
A navy pilot herself, Wilson afforded an unparalleled level of realism to her plot that had me standing on the ship feeling the salty wind or flying the helicopter, its rotors whipping overhead. Wilson placed me in the center of the action without convoluting the story with technical mumbo jumbo present in many debut novels. In fact, for a while, I had to keep reminding myself that this was her first book, she had me so entrenched in Sara and Eric’s story. Unfortunately, that seemed to change after the half-way mark.
While briefly on land, Sara and Eric hook up, falling just short of turning into a full-blown sex scene that still went further than I cared or needed to know. From then on, the chemistry that had crackled between the protagonists fizzled out and their relationship turned into something out of a soap opera. They resembled the unrealistic caricatures found in Emily’s (Sara’s roommate) Harlequin novels (thankfully, without any further bedroom scenes) instead of people I might encounter in real life.
I still enjoyed the military side of the story — Sara’s missions, and her relationship with her team — I just couldn’t care less what happened to Sara and Eric as a couple. Protective or not, Eric crossed some lines he had no right to, making decisions about Sara’s direction that weren’t his to make. On the other hand, strong, independent Sara became a whiny, needy high school girl who feels slighted by the cute boy in school. This saddened me considering how much I liked them in the beginning. The villain too felt like the stereotypical bad guy plucked out of a Harlequin novel, created only to make the protagonists look good. This person could be seen coming a mile away, leaving little mystery in that department.
Had the entire book followed this pattern from the start, the let down wouldn’t have been so acute. I would have settled in for an average story, good for a one-time read. The strong beginning, however, led me to expect more, causing my disappointment. Readers should also prepare for foul language, which did nothing to enhance the story.
For the most part, it offers an entertaining read that military suspense fans might enjoy. I am looking forward to her next book. After all, this is Wilson’s debut novel, so I have hopes for her.
October 17, 2015
If you want to know what it's like to be a woman in a male-dominated world like the U.S. Navy, read Anne Wilson's Hover. If you want to know about the technology and training that goes into being a Navy helicopter pilot, read Anne Wilson's Hover. If you want to feel as though you're participating in secret Navy SEAL missions, read Anne Wilson's Hover. And if that's not enough for you, throw in a toe-curling romance.
As I've already stated, Sara Denning is a mass of contradictions. The words she uses to describe the sea can make a person's skin crawl-- and I love the ocean. It definitely made me wonder why on earth she would deliberately choose to join the Navy. Readers aren't left to wonder for long: Sara is carrying a boatload of guilt over her brother's death. She's thrown up so many defensive walls to help her cope-- and even excel-- at something she's petrified of that it's a wonder she's still sane. Hover is a character study of Sara Denning, and it's a fascinating one even though it has more romance in it than I would prefer. I do have to say that yes, I did find the romance annoying from time to time, but it is essential to the growth of Sara's character, so I just sat back and dealt with it.
Dealing with it wasn't all that difficult because there were so many other facets of the book that I enjoyed-- what some readers might call the Tom Clancy elements of military technology and training, those training missions, being part of a carrier strike force, and Sara's being groomed for a top secret mission. These elements shouldn't be too over-the-top for most female readers because of the focus on-- yes-- that romance, and on Sara's relationships with her best friend, her fellow pilots, and her superior officers. Throw in some shore leave in Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates, and Hover is a book that kept my attention from first page to last. If this is a first novel (and it is), I'm really looking forward to Anne Wilson's next book!
As I've already stated, Sara Denning is a mass of contradictions. The words she uses to describe the sea can make a person's skin crawl-- and I love the ocean. It definitely made me wonder why on earth she would deliberately choose to join the Navy. Readers aren't left to wonder for long: Sara is carrying a boatload of guilt over her brother's death. She's thrown up so many defensive walls to help her cope-- and even excel-- at something she's petrified of that it's a wonder she's still sane. Hover is a character study of Sara Denning, and it's a fascinating one even though it has more romance in it than I would prefer. I do have to say that yes, I did find the romance annoying from time to time, but it is essential to the growth of Sara's character, so I just sat back and dealt with it.
Dealing with it wasn't all that difficult because there were so many other facets of the book that I enjoyed-- what some readers might call the Tom Clancy elements of military technology and training, those training missions, being part of a carrier strike force, and Sara's being groomed for a top secret mission. These elements shouldn't be too over-the-top for most female readers because of the focus on-- yes-- that romance, and on Sara's relationships with her best friend, her fellow pilots, and her superior officers. Throw in some shore leave in Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates, and Hover is a book that kept my attention from first page to last. If this is a first novel (and it is), I'm really looking forward to Anne Wilson's next book!
June 7, 2020
I enjoyed this book a lot, with the exception of one scene.
Lt Sara Denning is a helicopter pilot in the navy. It was her twin brother's dream, really, but he died before he could attend the Academy. Sara took over his dream and made it her own, but then finds she's actually a pretty gifted pilot and that she enjoys it. The only problem is? She's afraid of water, as her brother drowned saving her from a kayak accident.
I liked the insight into her training - the helo dunker sounds terrifying. Sara battles with her femininity throughout the book, preferring her uniform and plain clothes, in contrast to her roommate and fellow pilot, Em, who takes every opportunity to wear her civilian clothes. The women in the book are always subject to discrimination. Sara is hit on repeatedly by one of her seniors, and her Commander who she flies with constantly belittles her. Despite this, Sara is still judgy of Em's choices, thinking her unprofessional, and I loved the scene where Em calls her out on it, saying she can't have it both ways.
Sara's skills bring her to the attention of the SEALs. Though she doesn't know that at the time. She is evaluated over lots of training missions, and in the process falls in love with Eric. I really enjoyed the romance in this book, Eric is kind and always helping Sara. Sara is inexperienced with romantic relationships.
The big mission has an unrealistic ending, but I loved the way it circled back to the helo dunker training at the beginning. The last 50 pages or so are completely action packed.
The one scene that ruined this book for me was when they're in Hong Kong, having some downtime. Sara is on duty, and there's a problem with one of the sailors who won't pay the person he slept with because they're a 'he-she'. This was a re-read for me, and I didn't remember this from the first time. I think it wasn't necessary, and was handled badly, and I wish it didn't exist because this was a 5* book before then.
Lt Sara Denning is a helicopter pilot in the navy. It was her twin brother's dream, really, but he died before he could attend the Academy. Sara took over his dream and made it her own, but then finds she's actually a pretty gifted pilot and that she enjoys it. The only problem is? She's afraid of water, as her brother drowned saving her from a kayak accident.
I liked the insight into her training - the helo dunker sounds terrifying. Sara battles with her femininity throughout the book, preferring her uniform and plain clothes, in contrast to her roommate and fellow pilot, Em, who takes every opportunity to wear her civilian clothes. The women in the book are always subject to discrimination. Sara is hit on repeatedly by one of her seniors, and her Commander who she flies with constantly belittles her. Despite this, Sara is still judgy of Em's choices, thinking her unprofessional, and I loved the scene where Em calls her out on it, saying she can't have it both ways.
Sara's skills bring her to the attention of the SEALs. Though she doesn't know that at the time. She is evaluated over lots of training missions, and in the process falls in love with Eric. I really enjoyed the romance in this book, Eric is kind and always helping Sara. Sara is inexperienced with romantic relationships.
The big mission has an unrealistic ending, but I loved the way it circled back to the helo dunker training at the beginning. The last 50 pages or so are completely action packed.
The one scene that ruined this book for me was when they're in Hong Kong, having some downtime. Sara is on duty, and there's a problem with one of the sailors who won't pay the person he slept with because they're a 'he-she'. This was a re-read for me, and I didn't remember this from the first time. I think it wasn't necessary, and was handled badly, and I wish it didn't exist because this was a 5* book before then.
March 30, 2016
The author, Anne Wilson, lives in Arizona and came to my kids' school two weeks ago. An engaging and personable speaker, she gave a presentation about her time as a Navy pilot, complete with pictures that looked like they belonged on a poster for a movie about SEALS, and about how she came to writing as a career. My husband was in the Navy, so I know a good bit about amphibious ships--and I was totally intrigued by the idea of a woman pilot as a protagonist in a Gulf War book, and this genre-crossing plot (part thriller, part romance) that Anne described. So I went straight home and ordered the book. Totally enjoyed it. It's a fast-paced page-turner, an evenly-balanced combination of thriller and romance, and I read it straight through. My one gripe would be that the relationship between the protagonist Sara and her roommate Em (the only other woman on the boat) could have been more nuanced; at times I felt she was really only a foil for Sara. And at times the romantic snags felt a bit predictable--Sara sees Eric with another woman and immediately jumps to the wrong conclusion; the woman is the wife of one of Eric's friends. But these are quibbles. The thriller plotline and Navy descriptions feel wonderfully authentic; the romance has the right amount of smoulder; Sara's backstory fed the plot; and the whole thing kept me turning the pages WHILE I WAS COOKING DINNER! My family was lucky it wasn't burnt. And I will definitely read her next, due out in July: I believe it is called CLEAR TO LIFT.
June 13, 2015
Wilson’s experience as a crack Navy helicopter pilot shows in her debut. You can taste the salt spray and feel the helicopter's shuffle as it flies over pitching and rolling ships below.
Sara Denning, gifted aviator, is a complex character who shuns the limelight and wants to be judged only on her performance as an aviator and officer. Thrills and romance abound as Sara is forced to deal with demons from her past, resentful pilots in her detachment, and an overbearing senior officer who seems to find no good in anything she does, even when she’s doing exactly what he asked. Wilson manages to portray these struggles without making Sara a victim, but instead a strong and sympathetic female protagonist.
I found myself drawn into the story and unable to put the book down. Best of all, after finishing Hover and turning off my bedside lamp, I dreamed of days long past, spent flying helicopters low and fast over the water and that is a very good thing!
Sara Denning, gifted aviator, is a complex character who shuns the limelight and wants to be judged only on her performance as an aviator and officer. Thrills and romance abound as Sara is forced to deal with demons from her past, resentful pilots in her detachment, and an overbearing senior officer who seems to find no good in anything she does, even when she’s doing exactly what he asked. Wilson manages to portray these struggles without making Sara a victim, but instead a strong and sympathetic female protagonist.
I found myself drawn into the story and unable to put the book down. Best of all, after finishing Hover and turning off my bedside lamp, I dreamed of days long past, spent flying helicopters low and fast over the water and that is a very good thing!
November 7, 2015
I really liked it. Liked the female in a man's world adventure with a little romance thrown in. Some things were not plausible (in story line) but strong military/Navy details. Especially liked the "first female" syndrome. Been there, done that. Although she had a few more mentors than most of us. Appreciated her "small dot" philosophy - do your job really well but keep a low profile. I look forward to her next novel but not sure that the story will be appreciated by anyone without a military background or a glass ceiling experience. .
June 30, 2015
Outstanding! I do not give 5 stars lightly, but this is a terrific debut. The characters are engrossing, warts and all. The action is fast and furious, with plenty of detail, technical and narrative, about piloting a military helicopter under extreme circumstances. It's a great thriller, with personal bravery and ingenuity used to thwart the villain. It's a good love story. It provides insight into the integration of women in the Navy. It's well written. READ IT!
July 31, 2015
I loved this harlequinesque story! I'll read almost anything military, as I was in the Army Reserves. The author hits the culture of male and female interactions on the head! This was enjoyable because conversations and behaviors were authentic. I refer to "harlequin" as in the romance novels, because despite the perfect capture of the challenges of a woman in the military, much of the romance was over the top and cliche. Still a fun read!
March 28, 2015
Fantastic read. I thoroughly enjoyed this gripping and very emotional read by Anne A. Wilson and can't wait to read her other novels. I have no hesitation in HIGHLY recommending this novel.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher Macmillan-Tor/Forge for the digital copy to review.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher Macmillan-Tor/Forge for the digital copy to review.
August 29, 2015
Fantastic debut! Strong heroine, and great plot line. This was one that I could not put down...I walked around reading it, brushed my teeth reading it, accomplished nothing because I could not stop reading it. Can't wait for more from Anne Wilson.
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