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Men in Uniform #3
Holding Out for a Hero
He wasn't looking for love ...Two years after the death of his wife, Sergeant Blake Kline is still hurting. He isn't ready to date, but whenever he stops by his local diner and sees the friendly smile of his favorite waitress, he feels a spark of true happiness again. And when her life is unexpectedly threatened, Blake discovers his feelings for her might not be as platonic as he thought. She was holding out for the hero of her dreams ...Bookworm Hannah York has always been a hopeless romantic--preferring book boyfriends to blind dates--and she's been day-dreaming about Blake since the moment he came into her diner. She's convinced they'll never be more than friends ... until Blake kisses her and "weak in the knees" becomes more than just a line from her favorite romance novel. The closer Blake and Hannah get, however, the harder he fights to keep her at a distance.But forever has a way of sneaking up on you ...When their blossoming relationship takes a complicated turn, Blake will have to face his past ... or risk losing Hannah forever.
Audio CD
First published November 8, 2016
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About the author
Codi Gary
32 books977 followersFrom the time I could put a Disney Book cassette into my little stereo,and read along, books have held a fantastic distraction. When I was eleven, I decided I wanted to be one of those magical people that brought stories to life. Devouring a book a day sometimes, my first romance novel stuck with me. I've always been a sucker for a happy ending (and the great romantic gesture)and that's what I try to put into my stories. I am so honored to be a part of Avon, and am so excited to have my own dreams coming true.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 13, 2019
I enjoy the book very much. It reminds me of Handle With Care. The story is progress very very slow with a background of small town. Minus the noisy neighbor. I especially love how the author portray Hannah as a plus size woman. I only wish there are more books with curvy heroine instead of super model type.
I have slight problem with Blake. He is a bit annoying with push and pull with Hannah. He said he does not want Hannah, but he keeps stalking her. Playing with her feeling then pull out. I do not appreciate it from him. Yes i know he went through a rough road because of his wife passed away suddenly. But its not the right way to treat Hannah.
I wish the author lights more highlight on topic such as grieving and acceptance. This topic is lightly touched by the author. I want more of this.
Overall I do enjoy the book very very much.
4 stars
I have slight problem with Blake. He is a bit annoying with push and pull with Hannah. He said he does not want Hannah, but he keeps stalking her. Playing with her feeling then pull out. I do not appreciate it from him. Yes i know he went through a rough road because of his wife passed away suddenly. But its not the right way to treat Hannah.
I wish the author lights more highlight on topic such as grieving and acceptance. This topic is lightly touched by the author. I want more of this.
Overall I do enjoy the book very very much.
4 stars
November 8, 2016
2.5 stars?
I requested this book even though I struggled with one of the previous books in the series.
I liked Hannah and Blake well enough. They're both good people. Hannah is sweet and she stands up for herself. Blake is loyal and hardworking. Together they're adorable.
So, much like the other books, there was just a lot a lot a lot of drama and push and pull. Yes, Blake has some baggage, but he's pretty rude to anyone who brings up Jenny. Hannah included. And there was one plot point at the end that I didn't care for.
Overall, it wasn't the fluffy sorbet I was looking for, but there were some sweet moments. Sadly, I probably won't read any other books in the series.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
I requested this book even though I struggled with one of the previous books in the series.
I liked Hannah and Blake well enough. They're both good people. Hannah is sweet and she stands up for herself. Blake is loyal and hardworking. Together they're adorable.
So, much like the other books, there was just a lot a lot a lot of drama and push and pull. Yes, Blake has some baggage, but he's pretty rude to anyone who brings up Jenny. Hannah included. And there was one plot point at the end that I didn't care for.
Overall, it wasn't the fluffy sorbet I was looking for, but there were some sweet moments. Sadly, I probably won't read any other books in the series.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
December 27, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and Edelweiss***
I enjoyed this book. Blake and Hannah were perfect for one another and you definitely could relate to Blake's uncertainty with moving on, his feelings of guilt. I could also relate to Hannah, for the most part.
There were a couple of points where I thought the characters acted in a way that made them seem a lot younger than they were, I was mostly able to ignore those moments and engage with the story. Which I was able to do.
I liked the book, I liked the slow burn of the story, and I enjoyed the angst of the push and pull of Blake, of wanting to be with Hannah but also dealing with his grief and his guilt. The author handled the balance of their relationship and the characters correctly that neither one started to seem like it was more of a focus than the other.
This is, technically, part of a series of books. However, you don't need to have read the others in order for this to work and the other characters who appear are more supporting, you find out all you need to know about them for the book to be smooth and not have any gaps or areas where you feel like you missed something.
I recommend this book.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
I enjoyed this book. Blake and Hannah were perfect for one another and you definitely could relate to Blake's uncertainty with moving on, his feelings of guilt. I could also relate to Hannah, for the most part.
There were a couple of points where I thought the characters acted in a way that made them seem a lot younger than they were, I was mostly able to ignore those moments and engage with the story. Which I was able to do.
I liked the book, I liked the slow burn of the story, and I enjoyed the angst of the push and pull of Blake, of wanting to be with Hannah but also dealing with his grief and his guilt. The author handled the balance of their relationship and the characters correctly that neither one started to seem like it was more of a focus than the other.
This is, technically, part of a series of books. However, you don't need to have read the others in order for this to work and the other characters who appear are more supporting, you find out all you need to know about them for the book to be smooth and not have any gaps or areas where you feel like you missed something.
I recommend this book.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
August 6, 2017
This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
Holding Out for a Hero is a sweet story, but a little cheesy for my taste at times. I enjoyed Hannah and Blake, however, I felt like the book could have been slightly shorter and still told the full story.
Story:
Ex navy-SEAL and cute waitress dance around each other without much interactions outside of the café where Hannah works. Until one day when there's a hold-up at the café. And Hannah plays the hero. Bringing a lot of memories back to Blake - memories he didn't really want to resurface.
Holding Out for a Hero includes dogs and good friends, too. Blake works at a training center where they train dogs, but they also help keep troubled youth out of prison.
Characters:
Hannah is my kind of quirky heroine. She is shy in some ways, but there is something about Blake that makes her braver. Blake on the other hand has a lot of baggage, and he hasn't dealt with it the correct way up until now. Holding Out for a Hero also includes several of Blake's friends - all former military - and all having their own load of problems to deal with. Hanna's parents were hysterical, both retired, and spending way too much time watching true crime shows and sharing everything that could go wrong in her life with Hannah.
Writing style :
Third person past tense, with both Hannah and Blake sharing their point of view. The dialogues are well done, with some humor and hard truths.
Feels :
I felt the romance Hannah yearned for, and also the hopelessness Blake was dealing with.
"You know I love you guys, but next time, if I don't answer, please don't just drop by."
"But what if there was something wrong? On ID..."
"Mom..."
Her mom huffed. "Oh, all right, we won't just drop by anymore, but if you're killed by a sadistic serial killer who eats livers, don't come crying to me."
Holding Out for a Hero is a sweet story, but a little cheesy for my taste at times. I enjoyed Hannah and Blake, however, I felt like the book could have been slightly shorter and still told the full story.
Story:
Ex navy-SEAL and cute waitress dance around each other without much interactions outside of the café where Hannah works. Until one day when there's a hold-up at the café. And Hannah plays the hero. Bringing a lot of memories back to Blake - memories he didn't really want to resurface.
Holding Out for a Hero includes dogs and good friends, too. Blake works at a training center where they train dogs, but they also help keep troubled youth out of prison.
Characters:
Hannah is my kind of quirky heroine. She is shy in some ways, but there is something about Blake that makes her braver. Blake on the other hand has a lot of baggage, and he hasn't dealt with it the correct way up until now. Holding Out for a Hero also includes several of Blake's friends - all former military - and all having their own load of problems to deal with. Hanna's parents were hysterical, both retired, and spending way too much time watching true crime shows and sharing everything that could go wrong in her life with Hannah.
Writing style :
Third person past tense, with both Hannah and Blake sharing their point of view. The dialogues are well done, with some humor and hard truths.
Feels :
I felt the romance Hannah yearned for, and also the hopelessness Blake was dealing with.
"You know I love you guys, but next time, if I don't answer, please don't just drop by."
"But what if there was something wrong? On ID..."
"Mom..."
Her mom huffed. "Oh, all right, we won't just drop by anymore, but if you're killed by a sadistic serial killer who eats livers, don't come crying to me."
November 8, 2016
Codi Gary is a newer author for me. I've only started her for this series but I have to tell you that I'm really enjoying her stories.
Holding Out for a Hero is number #3 in the series. There is also a novella that starts the series. Plenty of good reading here.
I really enjoyed Blake & Hannah's story. Poor Blake has so much crap he needs to work out with his past. But he has his friends and Hannah to do it with. Of course it would help if he'd let them in just a little bit more.
Hannah's life is pretty much on track but the girl has to get some self-confidence. She's a wonderful character that you would love to have as a friend but she'd be the type that you could easily bully into your thoughts.
That's why Blake and Hannah are so good together. They fill in what the other needs. Hannah needs Blake's strength and Blake needs Hannah's softness. The perfect combo.
I really enjoyed their story and I'm so happy to see that they found happiness. Once you start Holding Out for a Hero you won't be able to put it down so make sure to start it when you have some time.
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
Romancing the Readers Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
ARC received for a honest review
Holding Out for a Hero is number #3 in the series. There is also a novella that starts the series. Plenty of good reading here.
I really enjoyed Blake & Hannah's story. Poor Blake has so much crap he needs to work out with his past. But he has his friends and Hannah to do it with. Of course it would help if he'd let them in just a little bit more.
Hannah's life is pretty much on track but the girl has to get some self-confidence. She's a wonderful character that you would love to have as a friend but she'd be the type that you could easily bully into your thoughts.
That's why Blake and Hannah are so good together. They fill in what the other needs. Hannah needs Blake's strength and Blake needs Hannah's softness. The perfect combo.
I really enjoyed their story and I'm so happy to see that they found happiness. Once you start Holding Out for a Hero you won't be able to put it down so make sure to start it when you have some time.
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
Romancing the Readers Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
ARC received for a honest review
October 3, 2016
AMAZING! Loved the characters, loved the book...just LOVED it all :)
March 7, 2019
Cute love story. Enjoyed the story of healing within the main storyline. Easy read.
December 31, 2016
Find this review and more at Ramblings From This Chick
Holding Out for a hero is the third book in the Men in Uniform series by Codi Gary. Each book is a standalone story, so these can be read out of order if you haven't read the previous books. While I have enjoyed this series, I haven't loved it. I keep hoping with each new book that it will get back to what I love so much from Codi Gary, but I have to admit that these have just been okay for me rather than great.
Two years after losing his wife, Blake is still struggling with his grief. His favorite waitress Hannah is the bright spot in his life and he finds himself stopping by the local diner to feel happiness. But Hannah is looking for more when it comes to Blake than friendship, and that is more than he can give. Just as Hannah is convinced nothing between them will change, Blake kisses her and everything changes. But the closer they grown, the more distance Blake tries to put between them. Can Blake face his past for a shot at a future with Hannah, or will they both wind up with a broken heart?
I have to admit that I struggled a bit to connect with these characters. I felt for both Blake and Hannah, and I could feel a genuine connection between them. But there was so much hot and cold, and back and forth that it just sort of lost me and I had a hard time feeling fully invested in their story. I wanted both of them to let go a bit and they each had issues that kept that from happening. I just felt like something was missing because I never felt like they made much progress. It was a definite case of one step forward, two steps back and after awhile I was just over it.
While I wanted to like this one, the ending felt rushed and cliche. Things were wrapped up too easily and it wasn't a satisfying conclusion after all that we had been through with these two over the course of the story. If you are a fan of this series, this one is worth giving a shot. I have to admit that it isn't my favorite from Codi Gary though, and wouldn't be one that I recommend for anyone looking for a solid romance story. I think it lacked depth and I was frustrated more often than not here.
**ARC Provided by Publisher**
Holding Out for a hero is the third book in the Men in Uniform series by Codi Gary. Each book is a standalone story, so these can be read out of order if you haven't read the previous books. While I have enjoyed this series, I haven't loved it. I keep hoping with each new book that it will get back to what I love so much from Codi Gary, but I have to admit that these have just been okay for me rather than great.
Two years after losing his wife, Blake is still struggling with his grief. His favorite waitress Hannah is the bright spot in his life and he finds himself stopping by the local diner to feel happiness. But Hannah is looking for more when it comes to Blake than friendship, and that is more than he can give. Just as Hannah is convinced nothing between them will change, Blake kisses her and everything changes. But the closer they grown, the more distance Blake tries to put between them. Can Blake face his past for a shot at a future with Hannah, or will they both wind up with a broken heart?
I have to admit that I struggled a bit to connect with these characters. I felt for both Blake and Hannah, and I could feel a genuine connection between them. But there was so much hot and cold, and back and forth that it just sort of lost me and I had a hard time feeling fully invested in their story. I wanted both of them to let go a bit and they each had issues that kept that from happening. I just felt like something was missing because I never felt like they made much progress. It was a definite case of one step forward, two steps back and after awhile I was just over it.
While I wanted to like this one, the ending felt rushed and cliche. Things were wrapped up too easily and it wasn't a satisfying conclusion after all that we had been through with these two over the course of the story. If you are a fan of this series, this one is worth giving a shot. I have to admit that it isn't my favorite from Codi Gary though, and wouldn't be one that I recommend for anyone looking for a solid romance story. I think it lacked depth and I was frustrated more often than not here.
**ARC Provided by Publisher**
March 23, 2017
‘Holding out for a hero’ seems a bit of a misnomer for a book that’s centred around a widower trying to live and love again and a shy, head-in-the-clouds woman who is insistent on seeing him as the hero he isn’t quite.
But if I could appreciate the fact that Blake and Hannah are neither players nor people who flit from a partner to another, I did find myself struggling with their characterisation—more the latter than the former—that made them hard to connect with. As much as I could sympathise with Blake’s inability to move on from his wife’s death, his blowing hot and cold along with Hannah’s passive-aggressive behaviour frustrated me as both walked into this relationship that always seemed to take a step forward and two steps back. Much of the story followed this trend from the start, as Blake finds himself wanting Hannah but unwilling to put himself out there again as Hannah gets annoyed over the slightest thing and retaliates by giving him the cold shoulder.
For most of it, I was wondering if she was ever going to adjust her own unrealistic expectations as she held Blake to her own impossible standards, but that never really happened. Instead, she did the same thing—running away and not facing up to the problem at hand—that she’d constantly accused Blake of doing. Irrational and annoying, too self-indulgently emotional and cowardly when it mattered most, I found Hannah difficult to like as a heroine way more than I could connect with Blake and his own issues. More importantly however, I found myself uncomfortable with the implication that grieving and mourning should happen within a fixed period of time as seen by the amount of insistent cajoling and pushing everyone did to get Blake out of his funk and right into his own HEA, even if it seemed Blake couldn’t face his own reality after 2 years.
With a rushed reconciliation and an even quicker fast-forward to their big family HEA, ‘Holding out for a hero’ might be for those who stand firmly in Hannah’s shoes (in essence, those who firmly need that HEA that spares no expense); unfortunately, it isn’t quite for me.
*ARC by Edelweiss and the publisher
(still grateful, as always)
But if I could appreciate the fact that Blake and Hannah are neither players nor people who flit from a partner to another, I did find myself struggling with their characterisation—more the latter than the former—that made them hard to connect with. As much as I could sympathise with Blake’s inability to move on from his wife’s death, his blowing hot and cold along with Hannah’s passive-aggressive behaviour frustrated me as both walked into this relationship that always seemed to take a step forward and two steps back. Much of the story followed this trend from the start, as Blake finds himself wanting Hannah but unwilling to put himself out there again as Hannah gets annoyed over the slightest thing and retaliates by giving him the cold shoulder.
For most of it, I was wondering if she was ever going to adjust her own unrealistic expectations as she held Blake to her own impossible standards, but that never really happened. Instead, she did the same thing—running away and not facing up to the problem at hand—that she’d constantly accused Blake of doing. Irrational and annoying, too self-indulgently emotional and cowardly when it mattered most, I found Hannah difficult to like as a heroine way more than I could connect with Blake and his own issues. More importantly however, I found myself uncomfortable with the implication that grieving and mourning should happen within a fixed period of time as seen by the amount of insistent cajoling and pushing everyone did to get Blake out of his funk and right into his own HEA, even if it seemed Blake couldn’t face his own reality after 2 years.
With a rushed reconciliation and an even quicker fast-forward to their big family HEA, ‘Holding out for a hero’ might be for those who stand firmly in Hannah’s shoes (in essence, those who firmly need that HEA that spares no expense); unfortunately, it isn’t quite for me.
*ARC by Edelweiss and the publisher
(still grateful, as always)
February 29, 2024
Oh my goodness! I can't believe this is the last book of the series. Hannah & Blake story was so moving. I love how open she was with Blake and that he appreciated her honesty. Blake on the other hand you can see he was still grieving his late wife. Hannah helped him more than she realized. I love how they took things slow and learned about one another. I'm glad that they got the happy ending they both deserved.
October 28, 2016
Review to come
August 31, 2019
Reviewed by Angela
Book provided by the publisher
From the blurb on the book I thought it was going to be a slow read. Boy was I wrong. I could not put this book down.
The author does an amazing job with giving you a backstory throughout the book without doing all of the flash backs that I get tired of. Sometimes a book is just filled with flashbacks and I find it takes away from the actual story. That is not the case here. I was drawn to the heartache that can be felt coming from the male lead Sergeant Blake Kline. There is so much strength in his character but at the same time so much sorrow.
It is clear that there is only one thing that can make him happy and that is Hannah. The relationship that blossoms between Blake and Hannah over the year that he has been in town has been a slow one but it is one that was built from the ground up. One that makes a person think that there really is someone out there for everyone.
The detail given to the characters, their background and the connections that are revealed in this book pulled me in and made me want to read the rest of the books in the series.
Because of the attention to character development and the personal and emotional growth between the main characters I give Holding Out for a Hero a Rose That Rules All rating.
Favorite Quote: “I think that little demon is a lost cause.”
Book provided by the publisher
From the blurb on the book I thought it was going to be a slow read. Boy was I wrong. I could not put this book down.
The author does an amazing job with giving you a backstory throughout the book without doing all of the flash backs that I get tired of. Sometimes a book is just filled with flashbacks and I find it takes away from the actual story. That is not the case here. I was drawn to the heartache that can be felt coming from the male lead Sergeant Blake Kline. There is so much strength in his character but at the same time so much sorrow.
It is clear that there is only one thing that can make him happy and that is Hannah. The relationship that blossoms between Blake and Hannah over the year that he has been in town has been a slow one but it is one that was built from the ground up. One that makes a person think that there really is someone out there for everyone.
The detail given to the characters, their background and the connections that are revealed in this book pulled me in and made me want to read the rest of the books in the series.
Because of the attention to character development and the personal and emotional growth between the main characters I give Holding Out for a Hero a Rose That Rules All rating.
Favorite Quote: “I think that little demon is a lost cause.”
February 12, 2019
A waitress and substitute teacher Hannah is a sweet sensible girl. She loves her adoptive parents and is a tad bit shy but she has a crush on the guy whom comes to the diner and sits in her section. He is military and works with dogs Blake s still very much in love with his deceased wife whom has been deceased for two year.
He has not dated or slept with another woman since.
Blake is still mourning and can be a bit harsh to his friends but he enjoys speaking to Hannah, but he doesn’t want a relationship with her. I actually feel sorry for her in some parts of this story he sorts of leads her own. At some points I wished Ashe would have just went out on dates with other guys cause Blake became a little bit much, but I did somewhat understand why he was the way he was and some of it may have been possibly guilt.
The story is a slow burn it almost moves to slow only because of the push and pull of the couple. I only which these two got their life together a little bit sooner in the book.
He has not dated or slept with another woman since.
Blake is still mourning and can be a bit harsh to his friends but he enjoys speaking to Hannah, but he doesn’t want a relationship with her. I actually feel sorry for her in some parts of this story he sorts of leads her own. At some points I wished Ashe would have just went out on dates with other guys cause Blake became a little bit much, but I did somewhat understand why he was the way he was and some of it may have been possibly guilt.
The story is a slow burn it almost moves to slow only because of the push and pull of the couple. I only which these two got their life together a little bit sooner in the book.
November 3, 2016
ARC Review Holding Out for a Hero (Men in Uniform) by Codi Gary
Holding Out For A Hero is much more than the title. Hannah and Blake are two lonely hearts searching for a chance to be whole. Hannah is stuck in her fantasy of what a perfect man should be. Blake is living on heartbreaking memories of a love gone too soon. Basically, Hannah is leading with her heart and Blake his head. Problem is in order to stand a chance at building a future and finding happiness, they have to listen to both head and heart. Not one or the other. One of the reasons that I am a fan of Ms. Gary is that she is not afraid to show the vulnerabilities of the hero. The true measure of a man is not only his strength but the ability to expose his weaknesses as well. Holding Out For a Hero is a story that exudes the power of faith, the strength of love and the pain of moving on in the face of grief. Relate-able for anyone whose ever loved and loss.
June 23, 2017
Hannah is a part time kindergarten teacher & part time waitress at a diner. Blake is US army sergeant, who works with Alpha Dog Search & Rescue, and is a regular at said diner. They develop a friend & Hannah has a crush. However, Blake keeps sending mixed signals and Hannah is confused. Turns out that Blake's pregnant wife was killed 2 yrs prior in a shooting at Fort Hood & he is still dealing w guilt and grief. After Blake is forced to seek therapy, he and Hannah decide to officially date, although Blake has no intention of loving anyone again.
I so wanted to smack Blake upside the head on multiple occasions! Even after they're dating, whenever Hannah approaches the subject of his wife, Blake flies off the handle. Hannah was just way too patient. Great story overall and we catch up with the characters from previous books in the series. There was an HEA...but took a while to get to it.
I so wanted to smack Blake upside the head on multiple occasions! Even after they're dating, whenever Hannah approaches the subject of his wife, Blake flies off the handle. Hannah was just way too patient. Great story overall and we catch up with the characters from previous books in the series. There was an HEA...but took a while to get to it.
January 14, 2020
I haven't read any of the other books, as I didn't know it was a series, but I don't think is necessary for the story. I did enjoy the book, but the characters were a bit annoying. I understand that grief is different for everybody, but the constant anger and doubts made him a not very likable character. I don't know if I'll read anymore from this series, but it was entertaining enough to maybe do it some day.
November 10, 2016
As usual Codi Gary knows how to draw me into a story! I loved Blake and Hannah's story! It was heartwarming to watch Blake fall in love and get over his past. Hannah was such a sweet, fun character. I could imagine being friends with her. I mean who doesn't love a girl with her head in a book? :) I would definitely recommend this book!
December 2, 2019
Overall, this was a good story. However, a few chapters in and I WAS SICK OF THE JENNY THING. Talk about beating the crap out of an issue. I get it, grief is hard and getting past something is difficult but this was just a little too drawn out if you ask me.
Otherwise, this was well written and even-paced. It honestly took me a little longer to get through because of the Jenny issue.
Otherwise, this was well written and even-paced. It honestly took me a little longer to get through because of the Jenny issue.
October 15, 2020
I was having a hard time getting interested on the first half of this book, but as I get to half of it I realize its a nice book... I guess I was having a hard time understanding the female lead being super head over heels with the male lead... but eventually the female lead is getting stronger, so I guess that was the time that I begin to like to story...
November 11, 2016
A sweet story, widower meets curvy Hannah who helps him get over the terrible loss of his childhood sweetheart who was brutally murderered.
December 19, 2017
He had too much baggage...poor Hannah
January 23, 2017
Cute romance story. Nothing new but still a fun read.
August 26, 2021
Not a bad read .cute and sweet
September 29, 2016
I received an ARC from Edelweiss. Have not read the first two books in the series, but I would go back and read them.
November 13, 2016
Holding Out for a Hero is a story which touches on many common issues in today's society: love, loss, guilt and depression. Issues in which makes the characters more personable. I am a big fan of novels by Codi Gary and love the 'Alpha Dog Military' romances a.k.a. the Men in Uniform series and this book was no different.
Following the loss of his wife Jenny, Sergeant Blake Kline is transferred into the Alpha Dog Training program. Two years later, a black cloud still hangs over his head. The only light in his day, is the thirty minutes spent each morning, talking to the waitress at Dale's Diner.
Initially shy at first, it became Blake's mission to enact a smile, a laugh or a blush from Hannah. One morning, on a whim he gives her his number and later that night, drunk dials before collapsing into a drunken sleep.
Hannah Riley has been in lust with Blake Kline the moment he walked into the diner and sat in her section. He was the first man to initiate conversation with her without wanting something in return and she began to look forward to his morning visits. They developed a mutual kinship, often chatting about their lives and he would tease her about her choice of reading literature. Believing the interest is only one-sided, Hannah is shocked when he leaves her his mobile number.
When an armed gunman enters the cafe, Hannah's first thought is of Blake's safety. His eyes already show so much sadness and loss, so she moves into the gunman's line of sight and offers herself as a hostage. At the first opportunity, he races to disarm the gunman but leaves without saying goodbye.
Confused about his feelings -believing moving on means he is cheating on his wife or forgetting her, he comes across standoffish. He tries to keep away but fate seems to continually place Hannah in his path.
They eventually take the plunge and start dating, agreeing to take it slow. Hannah makes it her personal mission to help Blake begin the grieving process but each step forward, they take two emotional steps back.
Gradually they both navigate through the issues of their relationship and slowly learn to trust one another. Although constantly freaked out with each declaration, Blake is committed to Hannah. With the help of his friends, Hannah and a therapist, Blake starts the slow process to rebuild his life. After all, he has everything he has everything to live for.
Following the loss of his wife Jenny, Sergeant Blake Kline is transferred into the Alpha Dog Training program. Two years later, a black cloud still hangs over his head. The only light in his day, is the thirty minutes spent each morning, talking to the waitress at Dale's Diner.
Initially shy at first, it became Blake's mission to enact a smile, a laugh or a blush from Hannah. One morning, on a whim he gives her his number and later that night, drunk dials before collapsing into a drunken sleep.
Hannah Riley has been in lust with Blake Kline the moment he walked into the diner and sat in her section. He was the first man to initiate conversation with her without wanting something in return and she began to look forward to his morning visits. They developed a mutual kinship, often chatting about their lives and he would tease her about her choice of reading literature. Believing the interest is only one-sided, Hannah is shocked when he leaves her his mobile number.
When an armed gunman enters the cafe, Hannah's first thought is of Blake's safety. His eyes already show so much sadness and loss, so she moves into the gunman's line of sight and offers herself as a hostage. At the first opportunity, he races to disarm the gunman but leaves without saying goodbye.
Confused about his feelings -believing moving on means he is cheating on his wife or forgetting her, he comes across standoffish. He tries to keep away but fate seems to continually place Hannah in his path.
They eventually take the plunge and start dating, agreeing to take it slow. Hannah makes it her personal mission to help Blake begin the grieving process but each step forward, they take two emotional steps back.
Gradually they both navigate through the issues of their relationship and slowly learn to trust one another. Although constantly freaked out with each declaration, Blake is committed to Hannah. With the help of his friends, Hannah and a therapist, Blake starts the slow process to rebuild his life. After all, he has everything he has everything to live for.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2016
***I received this book for free from the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review, which was first posted on book blog Will Read for Feels.
There’s just something about book boyfriends for whom heroism isn’t just a state of being, it’s a full-on profession. So I think I was naturally predisposed to swoon over Blake Kline in Codi Gary’s Holding Out for a Hero, book 3 in her Men in Uniform series.
Blake is one of those romance novel heroes who, at first glance, seems too good to be true. He’s serving his country, he loves dogs and is awesome with them, he works out regularly, and he is adorably awkward in his sweet crush on a waitress at the diner where he frequently grabs breakfast. The gloriousness of his book boyfriend potential threatens to blind in the first few chapters. Then as you read the book, you get to see the cracks in his grumpy-cool makeup, and you’re both relieved that he’s human after all and also suddenly solidly in his corner when it comes to his efforts to work through his issues—even before he makes the effort in the first place. The result is a three-dimensional character I wasn’t expecting, based on the first couple of chapters.
Waitress and/or substitute teacher by day and children’s novel writer by night Hannah York is about as wholesome a character as they come. She loves kids and canines, and she’s not just a dutiful daughter—she’s a caring one. Her huge crush on Blake makes her even cuter as a character. Only problem is, this first impression makes her seem easy to pigeonhole at first. But early on she shows that despite her shyness, she’s actually got quite a bit of spunk and a secret inner contrariness that at times made me smile. This is a character who doesn’t get up in your face about who she is, but any attempts to redefine her will be met with a level of quiet, calm resistance that’s surprisingly formidable.
I think the only issue I had with this novel was the pacing; I felt like there were some areas where a feeling of pleasant sameness overtook my experience of the read. It wasn’t boredom per se, just an awareness that things could’ve been snappier, to borrow a word from the ROTC commanders of my misspent college years.
Regardless, the read can be described with three S words that are must-haves in romance: sweetness, swoon-worthiness, and surprise.
Also, in the interest of honesty, it behooves me to mention that, hot as Blake might be, it was canine companion Charge who stole my heart.
There’s just something about book boyfriends for whom heroism isn’t just a state of being, it’s a full-on profession. So I think I was naturally predisposed to swoon over Blake Kline in Codi Gary’s Holding Out for a Hero, book 3 in her Men in Uniform series.
Blake is one of those romance novel heroes who, at first glance, seems too good to be true. He’s serving his country, he loves dogs and is awesome with them, he works out regularly, and he is adorably awkward in his sweet crush on a waitress at the diner where he frequently grabs breakfast. The gloriousness of his book boyfriend potential threatens to blind in the first few chapters. Then as you read the book, you get to see the cracks in his grumpy-cool makeup, and you’re both relieved that he’s human after all and also suddenly solidly in his corner when it comes to his efforts to work through his issues—even before he makes the effort in the first place. The result is a three-dimensional character I wasn’t expecting, based on the first couple of chapters.
Waitress and/or substitute teacher by day and children’s novel writer by night Hannah York is about as wholesome a character as they come. She loves kids and canines, and she’s not just a dutiful daughter—she’s a caring one. Her huge crush on Blake makes her even cuter as a character. Only problem is, this first impression makes her seem easy to pigeonhole at first. But early on she shows that despite her shyness, she’s actually got quite a bit of spunk and a secret inner contrariness that at times made me smile. This is a character who doesn’t get up in your face about who she is, but any attempts to redefine her will be met with a level of quiet, calm resistance that’s surprisingly formidable.
I think the only issue I had with this novel was the pacing; I felt like there were some areas where a feeling of pleasant sameness overtook my experience of the read. It wasn’t boredom per se, just an awareness that things could’ve been snappier, to borrow a word from the ROTC commanders of my misspent college years.
Regardless, the read can be described with three S words that are must-haves in romance: sweetness, swoon-worthiness, and surprise.
Also, in the interest of honesty, it behooves me to mention that, hot as Blake might be, it was canine companion Charge who stole my heart.
November 6, 2016
Hannah York spends the majority of her free time with her nose buried in a romance book or daydreaming about one of her book boyfriends coming to life and waltzing into the cafe to sweep her off of her feet and give her the happily ever after she longs for. She longs for a hero to give her the love her favorite heroines receive in her books, the forever kind of love, with the ring, marriage, and a future filled with babies and happiness, but so far her hero has been MIA. That is until the super sexy Blake Kline starts making regular visits to the cafe, they become fast friends and the more time she spends with him, she begins to fantasize about him being the "one". But he is quick to make it known that a relationship just isn't in the cards for him... or is it?
Blake Kline had love in his life once, and it was stripped away in the blink of an eye, and he's been struggling every since day to move on from it, and let her go. But no matter how hard he tries she's always there in the back of his mind lingering, reminding him of what he's lost, and preventing him from wanting to travel down that path again... but his friends aren't quite ready to let him give up that easily. So, they keep throwing single women in his path hoping for sparks, but they don't come, that is until he meets a beautiful waitress at a local cafe he frequently visits. She's everything he wants, and he thinks they could be really happy...but his lingering past keeps getting in the way.
After reading the synopsis for this one I couldn't wait to get my hands on it, not only because it is written by one of my favorite authors, but also because I knew I would be in for some exceptional reading, and I am happy to report that my initial thoughts were spot on...it was SO GOOD!! Blake and Hannah were a real treat to meet, their chemistry warmed up the pages, and the banter they shared had me grinning like a fool the whole way through!! Ms. Gary totally won me over with this one, her emotionally charged story line and well crafted characters kept me captivated from start to finish!!
If you have not had the pleasure of reading the Men In Uniform series yet, I highly recommend you remedy that ASAP, not only are you missing out on some exceptional reading, but also the opportunity to meet some seriously sexy heroes that are sure to steal your heart!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.
Blake Kline had love in his life once, and it was stripped away in the blink of an eye, and he's been struggling every since day to move on from it, and let her go. But no matter how hard he tries she's always there in the back of his mind lingering, reminding him of what he's lost, and preventing him from wanting to travel down that path again... but his friends aren't quite ready to let him give up that easily. So, they keep throwing single women in his path hoping for sparks, but they don't come, that is until he meets a beautiful waitress at a local cafe he frequently visits. She's everything he wants, and he thinks they could be really happy...but his lingering past keeps getting in the way.
After reading the synopsis for this one I couldn't wait to get my hands on it, not only because it is written by one of my favorite authors, but also because I knew I would be in for some exceptional reading, and I am happy to report that my initial thoughts were spot on...it was SO GOOD!! Blake and Hannah were a real treat to meet, their chemistry warmed up the pages, and the banter they shared had me grinning like a fool the whole way through!! Ms. Gary totally won me over with this one, her emotionally charged story line and well crafted characters kept me captivated from start to finish!!
If you have not had the pleasure of reading the Men In Uniform series yet, I highly recommend you remedy that ASAP, not only are you missing out on some exceptional reading, but also the opportunity to meet some seriously sexy heroes that are sure to steal your heart!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.
November 11, 2016
This review was originally posted on Latte Nights Reviews.
Blake knew what happiness and love were until it was gone. Now, he's a grumpy man who doesn't allow himself any form of happiness, not even the lovely waitress from the diner he frequents. It's not until one day that Hannah is in danger that he wants to protect her and feelings start to ignite. Unfortunately, Blake feels he doesn't deserve happiness and is always pushing Hannah away.
This wasn't my favorite in the series. The characters were okay for me. I did feel for Blake and what he went through, but at the same time, I didn't really care much, which says a lot seeing as I really felt a lot for the characters in the previous books. I couldn't really connect with them. I usually like when the two main characters are a bit hot-and-cold, but I felt like in this case it was dragged so much in the story and had lots of angst. So much so, that it overshadowed the sweet moments that Blake and Hannah would have. I am glad Hannah didn't let herself get dragged towards the end and stood up for herself. I wish she had done it sooner, as well as Blake's full growth. That way the couple could have had more romantic times. Aside from that, the few moments where drama wasn't happening, the romance was sweet and a little steamy.
I loved that the author included the whole gang from the previous books and it was so nice to read about them. I always think a group of friends brings lightness to a story and this wasn't the exception. I would even laugh a little when Blake's coworkers' would appear since they are a funny bunch.
Overall, Holding Out for a Hero is a sweet, at times steamy, angsty novel with touches of humor.
I received an eARC from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.This review was originally posted on Latte Nights Reviews.
Blake knew what happiness and love were until it was gone. Now, he's a grumpy man who doesn't allow himself any form of happiness, not even the lovely waitress from the diner he frequents. It's not until one day that Hannah is in danger that he wants to protect her and feelings start to ignite. Unfortunately, Blake feels he doesn't deserve happiness and is always pushing Hannah away.
This wasn't my favorite in the series. The characters were okay for me. I did feel for Blake and what he went through, but at the same time, I didn't really care much, which says a lot seeing as I really felt a lot for the characters in the previous books. I couldn't really connect with them. I usually like when the two main characters are a bit hot-and-cold, but I felt like in this case it was dragged so much in the story and had lots of angst. So much so, that it overshadowed the sweet moments that Blake and Hannah would have. I am glad Hannah didn't let herself get dragged towards the end and stood up for herself. I wish she had done it sooner, as well as Blake's full growth. That way the couple could have had more romantic times. Aside from that, the few moments where drama wasn't happening, the romance was sweet and a little steamy.
I loved that the author included the whole gang from the previous books and it was so nice to read about them. I always think a group of friends brings lightness to a story and this wasn't the exception. I would even laugh a little when Blake's coworkers' would appear since they are a funny bunch.
Overall, Holding Out for a Hero is a sweet, at times steamy, angsty novel with touches of humor.
I received an eARC from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.This review was originally posted on Latte Nights Reviews.
November 19, 2016
*ARC provided by Publisher*
Holding Out for a Hero is the third book in author Codi Gary’s Men in Uniform series. But even if you haven’t read the previous books in the series, this book can be read as a standalone so don’t let the fact that it’s third in Men in Uniform series deter you by any means.
In Holding Out for a Hero, Sgt. Blake Kline is still dealing with the unexpected loss of his wife two years ago, though he can’t deny a growing attraction to his favorite diner waitress, Hannah York. Though Blake is grieving and prone to a little—or a lot of–grumpiness, especially when his friends try to push him out of his comfort zone, he also has a bit of a teasing streak in him, something he often showcases in his interactions with Hannah and his well-meaning but sometimes overreaching co-workers.
Like Blake, Hannah is a fun and multi-faceted character. She has a lot of jobs and interests that divide her time and leave her with very little sleep—like reading and staying up so long writing that her work alarm is set to go off before she even makes it to bed.
Hannah is very much a dreamer while Blake is a bit more of a realist, and though he teases her about her love of books, he also subconsciously senses a kindred spirit in her, I think. They’re opposite in so many ways and yet they fit together so perfectly, each filling what the other is lacking.
Fast-paced, well-written, heartwarming, and engaging, Holding Out for a Hero is very much a story about hope and strength, about moving past the pain of the past and taking a chance on the uncertainties of the future. Of stepping outside one’s long-held comfort zone to take a risk on living and loving again with someone new, someone different, someone known yet also unexpected.
Holding Out for a Hero is the third book in author Codi Gary’s Men in Uniform series. But even if you haven’t read the previous books in the series, this book can be read as a standalone so don’t let the fact that it’s third in Men in Uniform series deter you by any means.
In Holding Out for a Hero, Sgt. Blake Kline is still dealing with the unexpected loss of his wife two years ago, though he can’t deny a growing attraction to his favorite diner waitress, Hannah York. Though Blake is grieving and prone to a little—or a lot of–grumpiness, especially when his friends try to push him out of his comfort zone, he also has a bit of a teasing streak in him, something he often showcases in his interactions with Hannah and his well-meaning but sometimes overreaching co-workers.
Like Blake, Hannah is a fun and multi-faceted character. She has a lot of jobs and interests that divide her time and leave her with very little sleep—like reading and staying up so long writing that her work alarm is set to go off before she even makes it to bed.
Hannah is very much a dreamer while Blake is a bit more of a realist, and though he teases her about her love of books, he also subconsciously senses a kindred spirit in her, I think. They’re opposite in so many ways and yet they fit together so perfectly, each filling what the other is lacking.
Fast-paced, well-written, heartwarming, and engaging, Holding Out for a Hero is very much a story about hope and strength, about moving past the pain of the past and taking a chance on the uncertainties of the future. Of stepping outside one’s long-held comfort zone to take a risk on living and loving again with someone new, someone different, someone known yet also unexpected.
November 8, 2016
Holding Out For A Hero by Codi Gary is the newest full length stand alone in the Men In Uniform series. This is a series that I have fallen for and it is no wonder. When you mix strong sassy heroines, hunky alpha males and an abundance of dogs how do you not fall in love.
Holding Out For A Hero revolves around widower Blake and innocent bookworm Hannah. Blake is not the easiest man to love, he makes Hannah work for it constantly but she is relentless and never gives up on him and the possibility of a them. I adored Hannah. She wore her heart on her sleeve and never allowed anyone to make her feel like she was unworthy. She even manages to make perpetual grumpy Blake smile, laugh and let go. But Blake comes with the worst form of baggage and it may be more than even she can handle.
‘This attraction to Hannah seemed like a betrayal to Jenny, and he hated it.’
A sweet romance with touches of humor, sexiness and tension Holding Out For A Hero is a, easy read that is easy to get lost in. While third person is not my personal favorite but Codi’s writing makes it easy to read and fall into the story. You will love watching Blake and Hannah fall in love and learn to cope with the past.
~miranda
Holding Out For A Hero revolves around widower Blake and innocent bookworm Hannah. Blake is not the easiest man to love, he makes Hannah work for it constantly but she is relentless and never gives up on him and the possibility of a them. I adored Hannah. She wore her heart on her sleeve and never allowed anyone to make her feel like she was unworthy. She even manages to make perpetual grumpy Blake smile, laugh and let go. But Blake comes with the worst form of baggage and it may be more than even she can handle.
‘This attraction to Hannah seemed like a betrayal to Jenny, and he hated it.’
A sweet romance with touches of humor, sexiness and tension Holding Out For A Hero is a, easy read that is easy to get lost in. While third person is not my personal favorite but Codi’s writing makes it easy to read and fall into the story. You will love watching Blake and Hannah fall in love and learn to cope with the past.
~miranda
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