Mission Happy

A Happily Ever After Novel #3

by Rylie Roberts

A decorated war hero and top-ranked Navy SEAL sniper, Connor McDaniel spends more time in combat than most. Phrases like ‘good versus evil,’ ‘right or wrong,’ and ‘God and country’ guide his every decision. When on a training assignment in a foreign land, Connor makes one faulty step, triggering an international political firestorm. Though he stands by his decision and has the support of his commander, ultimately, the country he has served with distinctiondistinguishably served has no choice, but to bench him—permanently.

Award winning superstar, Julia Holly, seemed to have it all. With several number-one blockbuster films, a few first-place beauty pageant ribbons, and the coveted all-time best Scream Queen trophy on her shelf, she easily conquered Hollywood. The only complication in her otherwise perfect life is the onetime brief encounter with the hot military man of her dreams, who didn’t pay her even the smallest amount of attention. When a chance meeting puts Connor McDaniel back in her path, she gives no hesitation in making a second introduction.

While Connor’s sole focus rests on sidestepping the political landmines that threaten his career, an auburn-haired angel appears out of nowhere, making him believe life can go on without the military. Yet, navigating the minefield of civilian life can be tricky. Does Connor dare believe in fairy-tales or will his heart and his dreams get caught in the crossfire?

349 pages, ebook

Published September 29, 2016

About the author

Hollywood Binge novels debuting June 11, 2017 with co-author, Julia Bright. You can follow along by joining her newsletter at www.rylieroberts.com. Stay tuned. There’s more on the way.

Reviews

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series by Rylie Roberts and Connor and Julia are the perfect match for each other.

When Julia sees Connor sitting at a bar in Los Angeles, at first she thinks her eyes are deceiving her. That couldn't be the sexy military man she had met before that wanted nothing to do with her. So she takes a chance in going over to say hi and sparks fly between the two. Connor doesn't ever remember meeting the gorgeous auburn beautify but he's got a day to kill, so why not hang out.

Julia lets it be known that they have a mutual friend, but she conveniently leaves out the fact that she's a well known actress. She likes that he doesn't bring up her celebrity status and she knows she needs to tell him before it all blows up but she just wants to have a little more time with this amazing man before her reality sets in.

Connor and Julia are perfection together. They have this magnetic pull and sexual tension between them that is delectable. I love Rylie's writing and hope for more in this great series.

[Kellie Lalor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet, romantic & so hot

Julia is the belle of hollywood, she loves what she does but craves normalcy. She wants to be loved for who she is, not what she does.

Connor is the buff, career military guy who believes he is nothing if not military. Hr has never considered a life outside of the military. Other than his strong bond with his childhood mates, Cole, Ty, Reed & Bray.

Julia has never forgotten Connor nor her attraction to him so when she sees him at a local bar some years later she takes a chance & starts up a conversation with him.
But for Connor, the timing could not be any worse.
They have amazing chemistry but can they both get a handle on their insecurities & recent events & take a chance on love?

I loved this book & the two previous books. I would highly recommend this book to any fan of contemporary romance.

I really hope that Cole gets to find his happiness

[Sandra Shipman ~ Two Book Pushers · Rating 5 out of 5]

***4.5 Stars

Mission Happy is the third book in the Texas Desires series. It can be read as a standalone but there are connections from the previous books. I met Connor in Chasing Happy and got to know him more in Acting Happy. Julia was introduced in a Acting Happy as Ty's friend. They even met each other years ago but Connor doesn't remember her but Julia sure does remember him. He has been starring in her fantasies since the night they met. Their second meeting changes everything...

When Julia notices the man at the end of the bar, she is both excited and nervous. She has only met Connor one time but it left a lasting impression. He might have ignored her that night but now she has a second chance with the most beautiful man she has ever laid eyes on. It wasn't just his looks either. She could sense that he was different. He was the silent type that held onto to so much inside. She wasn't letting him go this time. And when he finally spoke, the conversation lasted for hours. It was easy and they didn't want it to end. They didn't want this night to end. She has never done this type of thing but if there was a time to have a one-night stand this was it. Except...they both broke all the rules. A night of bringing each other out of their comfort zones was just the beginning...

Connor wanted to be with Julia. Badly. She calmed him. But his life was complicated and only getting more complicated after finding out his career as being a SEAL in the Navy could be over. He didn't think it would be fair to her to start a relationship with so much baggage. She deserves more than that. What Connor didn't know was that Julia had a complicated life as well. All he knew about her was that she was friends with Ty which was one of his best friends and that she was an actress. And that she was perfect. She was down to earth, beautiful, and made him smile again. And very unexpected. He knew this was bad timing but she didn't care. She felt a connection and wanted to get to know more about him.

Connor and Julia can't keep their hands off of each other. They also get closer outside of the bedroom. It's complicated but simple at the same time. But what will happen when Connor discovers Julia's level of fame? He never paid attention to celebrities, he didn't even watch TV or go to the movies. He was overseas most of his career so he was out of the loop when it came to Hollywood. He already thought Julia was out of his league before so will it tear them apart? Will his insecurities get the best of him and ruin everything! And what will happen when Julia finds out what Conner is capable of when it comes to his job title? Can two complicated souls make it work in two different worlds?

This was a wonderful addition to the series! I liked Connor and Julia in Acting Happy and I fell in love with them together in this book. Julia just wants to feel normal. Connor wants to find his future. It's beautifully complex. Their relationship is sexy, fun, and emotional.

P.S. It was awesome to see the gang together again.

Quotes:

“Me first. All of a sudden, I’m starving.”

“You need to know, I don’t just do this with anyone. I like who you are as a man. I like you as a person, and you’re so perfectly made… It’s a deadly combination for me.”

“You’re more than pretty. You’re perfect,” Connor said matter-of-factly, the words not intended to be the compliment they were.

[Melissa Mcentyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mission Happy (A Texas Desires Novel Book 3) by Rylie Roberts is a must read for any Military Romance reader and then add in a Hollywood Star; you have a not to be put down read. Mission: Happy can easily be a standalone read and completely enjoyed. But with it being book 3 in Rylie Roberts’s series you understand the secondary characters and the bonds of the 5 best friends if you have read the first two books.
We met the 5 best friends from West Texas in Book 1-Chasing Happy, Reed and Lara’s story. Book 2- Acting Happy, Ty and Kenzie’s story we found out more about the guys. The 5 are spread across the world. Their jobs are as explained in Book 2 by Ty, the Hollywood Movie Star- “Reed over there, he owns the world (CEO of a multi-faceted Company). Braden’s an attorney in Dallas. Connor’s military and Cole…He’s in the family business. They’re farmers. Like those massive sprawling farms…”
Connor McDaniel is military but a very specialized, top secret mission kind. After years of service as a decorated war hero and top-ranked Navy SEAL sniper, He is being forced to leave the service of his country, He is lost and off balanced until She walks over and reintroduces herself.
Julie, Hollywood Star, had met Connor through Ty and had fallen hard for the quiet military man of her dreams. She was surprised to find Connor alone at a private bar, but she was not going to miss the chance to spend time with him, no way no how.
They were both surprised by what they found together. Connor found that “He had liked last night. Actually, the word like was a major understatement. He’d felt alive and real--almost normal--when with Julie. Something he hadn’t experienced in more years than he could consider.” Julie found that “He made her feel good. What a seriously rare gift he had.”
Mission: Happy is a look a two people who find their peace with the other in their not normal lives. The twist, angst, and scares found in both their lives in Mission: Happy alone with the sweet personal exploration will keep you from putting this story down. I have very much enjoyed the stories in Rylie Roberts’ Texas Desire series. But Connor has touched my heart on so many levels, give this story a try, I think you will be Happy you did.
I very much look forward to Cowboy Happy the next stories from Rylie Roberts in the Texas Desire series.

Thanks Rylie Roberts & Good Writing

[Jill M (Embrace the Romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sexy, tatted military alpha meets gorgeous, Hollywood beauty. These two have instant chemistry. They may seem total opposites and from different worlds but they fit perfectly together. They just complete the other pulling out the best qualities of each other. They made each other feel wanted and loved, helping erase all their insecurities. When they finally come together your kindle will heat up and your panties melt.

Rylie Roberts has grown into an amazing author. With each book that she has written the writing has gotten so much better. I love the romance, mystery and suspense. She weaved a perfect story with a sexy alpha male and a confident, beautiful heroine. This was by far my favorite of the series so far. And I do hope there is more to come.

[Michelle Lukasiewicz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mission Happy

I enjoyed this book. It has plenty of drama, action, suspense, and sexy times. This is the first book I have read of Rylie Roberts. I will be reading the first two books in this series and look forward to the next. HEA and no cliffhanger.

[Kristine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, I enjoyed this book. The story was interesting, the characters strong and likable. This is the third book in the Happily Ever After Series and can be read as a stand-alone. It may just be me, however, the main characters had a conversation early in the book that I was completely lost with, the male lead seemed just as confused as me. The conversation was regarding mutual friends and things going on in their lives. I believe these characters stories were the focus of the previous book. Again, this may be nit picky on my part but I spent most of the book trying to determine the female lead's name. It wasn't explained until 3/4 of the way through that Julie is her "real" name and Julia is her "stage name". I am interested in reading the other books in the series.

I received a copy of this book from the author, my review has been voluntarily submitted.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first time I have read any of this authors work, and it will certainly not be the last. This is the third book in this series, but can be read as a standalone.
This is the story of Connor, who is a military man through and through, and Julia, belle of Hollywood, who just wants to be loved for herself and not for who she is. I loved all of the secondary characters as well. The attraction between these two is steamy and sexy.
This is an action packed story, with plenty of drama, suspense, and hot scenes. I recommend this authors work, and I cannot wait to read more.

[Amanda Showalter · Rating 4 out of 5]

A guarded military man who is trying to keep his career from ending and is worried about nothing else. A woman who seems to have it all but wants a second chance at the man who she didn't get. Can he realize that the military isn't everything and see whats right in front of him? this is a great book that makes you wonder if you really are going after the most important thing in your life

[devil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Big time Hollywood actress Julie and Navy Seal Connor have some amazing chemistry. They live in completely different worlds, so there are some issues trying to figure each other out. Great story!

[Manuela]

***2016 has been a very unstable year. Not only have I lost favourite role models in droves, I have been into dark places more times than I could count. Yes, I experienced highlights as well but the darkness has had a big impact this year and the only way to keep it at bay was reading, mass reading, back to back books with no stopping and no reviewing. I do apologize to all the writers that I won’t be able to review their books yet but I will get to it. Promise!***

[Bridgett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really great story! This was my first Rylie Roberts book and it was a very pleasant surprise!

The writing itself was so easy to read that it made the book enjoyable all on its own. The characters were very lovable. The term “gentle giant” comes to mind when I think of Connor. He was training for a military career even as a child but the way he reacts to and with Julia is heartwarming. He’s intense and fierce yet sweet and vulnerable…the perfect balance. Julia has never met a stranger and she’s comfortable no matter where she is. She’s a very popular Hollywood actress but she’s so down to earth she doesn’t even come close to fitting the Hollywood stereotype.

I love their relationship…it’s just so easy! They have a really strong connection right from the start and you can tell they’re made for each other. No games, no silly drama…just realistic life experiences that aren’t blown so out of proportion that’s they come across as ridiculous. Neither ever has to guess what’s going on in their relationship because it’s an ongoing open discussion. Connor is in a bad situation with the military and has had everything he’s ever known ripped away from him so he’s trying to adjust to civilian life. He’s having a difficult time with that but he has Julia to help. When you add Julia’s dangerous situation to the mix, you’ve got an intriguing story that holds your interest throughout. Just my kind of story!

I’m glad I found this author and can’t wait to read more of her work!

[Emily Goodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you love military books? Do you love a great romance? Then look no further than Mission Happy ( A Texas Desires Novel Book #3). Roberts does an excellent job of bring you the story of ex Navy Seal Connor McDaniel and Hollywood starlet Julie. These two couldn’t be more different, yet more perfect for each other. Together they create one epic read that you just can’t put down until the very end.

Robert peaked my interest early on with Connor when we first met him in Chasing Happy, her first book in A Texas Desires Novel which focused on Reed and Lara. She introduced us again to him in Acting Happy (Book Two)- Ty and Kenzie’s story, where we also got the first glimpse of Julie, Ty’s Hollywood co-star and friend. Roberts does an excellent job of creating those leading men you just can’t help but fall for. They are strong, protective, hot and truly worship their leading ladies. Roberts also creates wonderful heroines that are engaging, easily relatable and smart.

Mission Happy is a story of two people outside their comfort zones coming together to find true happiness. There’s angsts, twists, turns, and interesting story line that keeps you reading until the very end. Rylie Roberts never disappoints with her books. They continue to get better and better with each new release she writes. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for us with her next release! Here is hoping for Cole!

[Amy Neighbors Senethavilay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although I began this read a little confused (See, I missed the installment of Acting Happy but had read Chasing Happy), I was able to quickly pick up and follow the story of Julie and Connor.  I loved the interaction of these two character. The development of this relationship, as the two worked through their own insecurities, was delightful and allows the reader to see a true connection for two people from two very different worlds. Readers will fall in love with the quirky and witty Julie, as she works hard to show Connor the true person she is, not the star persona other get to see. And Connor? Well, this swoon worthy alpha-male will have your heart breaking for him one minute and cheering on the beast of a man he is, especially when it comes to protecting those he loves.

With a secondary cast of characters, readers will fall for the compassion and friendship that permeates each installment of the A Texas Desires Novels, while loving the sweet and well-written love stories that are filled with a bit of intrigue and tension. So bring on the next installment with Cowboy Happy! I can’t wait get Cole’s story next!

[Alexa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Rylie Roberts book and I have to say I really liked it! Although I was coming in on the end of this series, you don't really have to read the others to read this one.

I thought it was an interesting premise of a famous Hollywood actress and a Navy Seal who have friends in common but don't really know each other. Julia has seen Connor before and was very taken with him but he didn't think she would be into a 'regular guy' like him and so he didn't really give her much attention - other than to note that she was beautiful.

When Julia sees Connor in a private club that she belongs to she decides to gather her courage and make her move on him. He is going through a lot in his life and doesn't recognize her but the chemistry is there and they hook up. She doesn't think that he wants more but they both continue to stay in touch and build a relationship.

It was a slower paced novel but they tackled some good issues and had a real connection despite their differences. A good read overall - I will have to go and check out the other 2 novels in the series!

[Michelle Brace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another great installment in Rylie's Chasing Happy series. Although you don't have to read them all to enjoy this book you do get more about the characters and the build up to Conner and Julia. Rylie does a great job giving us a story about two characters that we are just dying to see how their story is going to play out.

Julia and Conner are both looking for something that is missing in their lives. Julia is looking to find something to make her feel normal in all the craziness of her stardom. Conner is looking for peace and a future. The career he is in is suddenly questionable and he is lost. They both seriously want each other. Julia brings him peace in his life but he doesn't realize the complications that could come in being with her. Julia has no idea what Conner is capable with his career. They both have things to learn about each other but will it be too much once they do?

I highly recommend this series. I have enjoyed each book thoroughly and believe you would as well. I can't wait for the next in the series!!

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in Rylie Roberts 'A Texas Desires series', which follows 5 best friends in Chasing Happy, (Reed and Lara) Acting Happy (Ty and Kenzie) and Mission Happy (Connor and Julia). This book is about sexy crack shot Sniper Seal and war hero, Connor McDaniel's who is not only ripped and gorgeous but sweet and protective and smart, sexy and beautiful award winning actress, Julia Holly who has a major crush on Connor. Rylie Roberts has fast become one of my favourite authors. Her books are entertaining and masterfully written. It amazes me that this is only Rylie's 3rd book! This story flows easily and captivates you from the first page. Rylies' books are special and I think she is one of the best contemporary romance writers of 2016. She brings her characters to life so vividly you can't help but fall for each one. Mission Happy is a sweet yet complicated romance that leaves you smiling long after. I LOVED it and can not wait for the next instalment Cowboy Happy. I ABSOLUTELY recommend all the books in this series.

[Dianela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julia is the Princess of Hollywood… with successful titles under her name everyone knows who she is… but Julia only wants one thing… to be loved for the woman she is… not the famous woman everyone sees…

Connor is a buff gentle giant… the military is his life… there is nothing much in his life other than his strong bond with his childhood friends, Cole, Ty, Reed & Bray.
When their two very different worlds collide these two are in for a wild ride… there is amazing chemistry but is the timing right? Julia is ready… but is Connor ready to take that leap into the unknown???
Mission Happy is book 3 in the series… it can be read as a stand alone but I do recommend all previous books as there are referrals to those stories.. this book is a must read… I will definitely be checking out the rest of the series and plan on keeping the author in my must read list!!!

***Review Provided by Hot Box Reviews in Collaboration with Dianela’s Details***

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Connor and Julie couldn't be more different. Connor is a laid back Navy Seal and Julie is a famous movie star. Both seem to think that their out of each other's league but the heat and chemistry between the both of them is undeniable. Their lives is full of complications. Connor is dealing with the possibilities of retirement and dealing with the ups and downs of being with a famous actress. As complicated as things in their lives are they seem to be most relaxed when they are together. Being with each other brings them a calm they've never known, now if they could get rid of those complications and insecurities...

[Renee at Book Happiness · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this for an honest review...

OMG I just fall in love with this author the more I read her stuff...

Conner and Julie were oh my god so hot and so perfect together... Once I started this book I could not and would not put the dang thing down... I just loved the military aspect and then you throw in some Hollywood OH BOY I loved it from the beginning to the very end

This book although part of a series can totally be read as a standalone although I will say you need to read the others in the series because this author is that amazing!!!

[Thetaintedrose Ttr · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my first time reading this author, and while I think Roberts has an easy flow and solid writing I felt I had already read the book. The couple came together quickly, went back and forth, saying they'd take it slow then not doing that. It was also rather redundant, the same conversations being rehashed to different characters, and Connor complaining time and again about being forced out of the military.

Reviewed for TTR's Wicked Words blog

[LaGina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though this was the third book in this series I was still able to read it without any problem. I wasnt lost but I am sure there is more about them in the fist two books. I was enjoying all the drama and action that was packed into this read. This was my first Rylie read and I will be making sure to get caught up on the other books so I can get the full effect of this series.

[Darlene Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this book.

I love this book by Rylie Roberts, never disappointed. Good read, I love military men romance. This book had appearances from characters from her previous books, Chasing Happy & Acting Happy they have such an amazing friendship. Another awesome rad by Ms. Roberts.

[Pam L · Rating 5 out of 5]

More Happy

Connor and Julie. Wow,who would think. But what a couple. A quiet powerhouse. Love this series,and all I can say,it was a truly enjoyable series and I hope this isn't the end. Many questions with this group of friends that we need answers for.
Rylie Roberts is a new author for me. The first book was recommended,and I didn't hesitate to order the next 2 . You will not be disappointed. It's well written, and very enjoyable. Her writing style reminds me of Lori Ryan. Anxious for more Texas Desires, I know there has to be more!

[Amanda Roden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mission: Happy.... Yep it worked Rylie made me happy with this book. I really can't express enough how impressed I am with this book and the way Rylie improved with each new book in this series. Connor is fresh out of the military and trying to figure out what to do with his life. Julia is a Hollywood actress and seems to have the world at her feet. While they are falling in love they are faced with struggles. Connor and Julia are my absolute favorite couple of the series!! Well done Rylie I look forward to reading more.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say the series started off brilliantly and as got better and better. This is off the scales. How Rylie brings hers characters to life is amazing and you just can't help but finish the book in one sitting.