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The Long Walk Back
Does everyone deserve a second chance?
As an army trauma surgeon Kate knows how to keep her cool in the most high pressure of situations. Although back at home in England her marriage is falling apart, out in the desert she’s happy knowing that she’s saving lives.
Until she meets Cooper. It’s up to Kate to make a split-second decision to save Cooper’s life. Yet Cooper doesn’t want to be saved. Can Kate convince him to give his life a second chance even though its turning out dramatically different from how he planned?
As an army trauma surgeon Kate knows how to keep her cool in the most high pressure of situations. Although back at home in England her marriage is falling apart, out in the desert she’s happy knowing that she’s saving lives.
Until she meets Cooper. It’s up to Kate to make a split-second decision to save Cooper’s life. Yet Cooper doesn’t want to be saved. Can Kate convince him to give his life a second chance even though its turning out dramatically different from how he planned?
- GenresRomance
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2018
92 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Dove
110 books214 followersI am a wife, mother of two boys, avid reader and writer of words. I sometimes sleep, always have eye bags and dream of retiring to a big white house in Cornwall, with 2 shaggy dogs, drinking wine on my seafront balcony whilst creating works of romantic fiction. All done with immaculate make up and floaty dresses.
In the meantime I nearly always remember to brush my hair, seldom have time to look in a mirror and write many, many to-do lists. I write fast paced sexy medical romances for Mills & Boon, and contemporary fiction and romantic comedies for HQ Digital and Boldwood Books. I always have a few books in progress, and am always jotting down new shiny ideas to torment myself with.
Rachel Dove Bursary founder - RNA 2018 - 2020 (stopped due to RNA restructure)
Writers Bureau Writer of the Year - first place 2016
Come say hello on social media! @writerdove
In the meantime I nearly always remember to brush my hair, seldom have time to look in a mirror and write many, many to-do lists. I write fast paced sexy medical romances for Mills & Boon, and contemporary fiction and romantic comedies for HQ Digital and Boldwood Books. I always have a few books in progress, and am always jotting down new shiny ideas to torment myself with.
Rachel Dove Bursary founder - RNA 2018 - 2020 (stopped due to RNA restructure)
Writers Bureau Writer of the Year - first place 2016
Come say hello on social media! @writerdove
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 11, 2018
4.5 -
Broken soldiers... Mute Boys... And shattered lives.
Stars!
Rachel Dove takes a step away from her easy-going Chick lit reads, and gives an emotive and well thought out story about a man and a woman who come together under the most horrific of circumstances, and builds a relationship around them dealing with their lives in the aftermath.
Both Captain Thomas Cooper and Trauma Surgeon Kate Harper are what I would call strong personalities, they have the confidence of people who know what they are good at and that they do it well. But when that crutch of familiarity is taken away through events out of your control how does that once confident person rebuild themselves back up into an alternative version of who they were? Into a person that can then fit in with the new reality that their life is, especially if they weren’t sure they wanted the chance to begin with…
"This was always going to happen… I could feel it the first day we met."
I am not going to say too much about the story line with this one. It starts in the theatre of war, but then the bulk of it plays out back in good old Blighty. The author steps back a few times to give the full back story, especially in Kate’s instance, and because of that and in the way things are spaced out, you don’t really get the full picture of everything that has happened until the latter stages of the book. I didn’t mind this, and to be honest there are enough clues there that you can kind of assume what the roundabout reasons are for certain things.
"I’m all in."
Can’t lie I was a little surprised at this book, I have read both of the authors recent Chick-lit offerings (main reason I decided to read this to be honest) and found them utterly charming and enjoyable reads. But The Long Walk Back is a completely different type of read, it’s a little dark and gritty, the issues explored aren’t ‘dumbed-down’ to make them less shocking, and I liked that the author didn’t take the easy route in that way.
A lot of thoughts lived in the dark corners of my mind these days…
This would have been a five star read for me, but for a couple of things, the random couple of instances in the latter stages where the writing jumps to first person POV didn’t work for me, I didn’t really feel they were needed with the way the rest of the book was written. I also found the flow of the second half a little scrappy at points and lacking a little of the smoothness that the first half had. Nothing major in the scheme of things as this was still an excellent read, but if those two issues had been ironed out it would have been a full five stars from me.
All in all, I would say this is a book that is worth giving a chance to, if you have read this authors past work, you are in for a surprise, if you haven’t I still think you will be, but for me it was good to see that she can create, craft and tell a story in two totally different ways, and do it well.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest reivew.
Rachel Dove takes a step away from her easy-going Chick lit reads, and gives an emotive and well thought out story about a man and a woman who come together under the most horrific of circumstances, and builds a relationship around them dealing with their lives in the aftermath.
Both Captain Thomas Cooper and Trauma Surgeon Kate Harper are what I would call strong personalities, they have the confidence of people who know what they are good at and that they do it well. But when that crutch of familiarity is taken away through events out of your control how does that once confident person rebuild themselves back up into an alternative version of who they were? Into a person that can then fit in with the new reality that their life is, especially if they weren’t sure they wanted the chance to begin with…
"This was always going to happen… I could feel it the first day we met."
I am not going to say too much about the story line with this one. It starts in the theatre of war, but then the bulk of it plays out back in good old Blighty. The author steps back a few times to give the full back story, especially in Kate’s instance, and because of that and in the way things are spaced out, you don’t really get the full picture of everything that has happened until the latter stages of the book. I didn’t mind this, and to be honest there are enough clues there that you can kind of assume what the roundabout reasons are for certain things.
"I’m all in."
Can’t lie I was a little surprised at this book, I have read both of the authors recent Chick-lit offerings (main reason I decided to read this to be honest) and found them utterly charming and enjoyable reads. But The Long Walk Back is a completely different type of read, it’s a little dark and gritty, the issues explored aren’t ‘dumbed-down’ to make them less shocking, and I liked that the author didn’t take the easy route in that way.
A lot of thoughts lived in the dark corners of my mind these days…
This would have been a five star read for me, but for a couple of things, the random couple of instances in the latter stages where the writing jumps to first person POV didn’t work for me, I didn’t really feel they were needed with the way the rest of the book was written. I also found the flow of the second half a little scrappy at points and lacking a little of the smoothness that the first half had. Nothing major in the scheme of things as this was still an excellent read, but if those two issues had been ironed out it would have been a full five stars from me.
All in all, I would say this is a book that is worth giving a chance to, if you have read this authors past work, you are in for a surprise, if you haven’t I still think you will be, but for me it was good to see that she can create, craft and tell a story in two totally different ways, and do it well.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest reivew.
January 16, 2018
★ 3 stars!!! ★
“...broken soldiers, mute boys, and shattered lives.”
Se é livro com militar, eu tô dentro! Adoro demais, demais!
“The Long Walk Back” tinha tudo pra ganhar mais estrelas, porém algumas coisas me incomodaram bastante no decorrer da história.
A primeira coisa que demorei um pouco pra me acostumar foi com a narrativa, a maior parte é narrada em 3ª pessoa, mas com alguns povs do Cooper em 1ª pessoa. Não que a escrita seja ruim, mas essa mistura acabou afetando o meu ritmo na leitura.
Eu gostei muito do início e da forma como os caminhos da Dr. Kate e Cooper se cruzaram, momento bem tenso, intenso e desesperador.
Só que, acho que a autora inseriu muitos dramas aqui, até aí tudo bem, contanto que cada um tenha a sua devida atenção. O que ao meu ver não aconteceu.
A partir de certo ponto a leitura começou a ficar arrastada, o suspense que rolou em torno da Kate e o que ela mantinha pra si acabou se tornando irritante, assim como a sua atitude também me irritou diversas vezes, não vi mais aquela personagem forte, corajosa e decidida do início.
Não tenho o que reclamar sobre o Cooper, adorei esse personagem e o seu comportamento em relação a Kate e Jamie ganharam ainda mais o meu coração. <3
Senti aquele aperto no peito em lgumas cenas que envolveram o Jamie... E esse drama em particular merecia ser abordado com mais calma e mais aprofundamento.
O final foi bem corrido e as situações importantes resolvidas rapidamente. Ficou faltando uma explicação mais elaborada pra tudo o que foi abordado.
Leitura ok, que poderia ter sido maravilhosa e isso me deixa muito triste e frustrada, porque o livro tinha um potencial enorme, mas pra mim a história não foi desenvolvida devidamente.
“...broken soldiers, mute boys, and shattered lives.”
Se é livro com militar, eu tô dentro! Adoro demais, demais!
“The Long Walk Back” tinha tudo pra ganhar mais estrelas, porém algumas coisas me incomodaram bastante no decorrer da história.
A primeira coisa que demorei um pouco pra me acostumar foi com a narrativa, a maior parte é narrada em 3ª pessoa, mas com alguns povs do Cooper em 1ª pessoa. Não que a escrita seja ruim, mas essa mistura acabou afetando o meu ritmo na leitura.
Eu gostei muito do início e da forma como os caminhos da Dr. Kate e Cooper se cruzaram, momento bem tenso, intenso e desesperador.
Só que, acho que a autora inseriu muitos dramas aqui, até aí tudo bem, contanto que cada um tenha a sua devida atenção. O que ao meu ver não aconteceu.
A partir de certo ponto a leitura começou a ficar arrastada, o suspense que rolou em torno da Kate e o que ela mantinha pra si acabou se tornando irritante, assim como a sua atitude também me irritou diversas vezes, não vi mais aquela personagem forte, corajosa e decidida do início.
Não tenho o que reclamar sobre o Cooper, adorei esse personagem e o seu comportamento em relação a Kate e Jamie ganharam ainda mais o meu coração. <3
Senti aquele aperto no peito em lgumas cenas que envolveram o Jamie... E esse drama em particular merecia ser abordado com mais calma e mais aprofundamento.
O final foi bem corrido e as situações importantes resolvidas rapidamente. Ficou faltando uma explicação mais elaborada pra tudo o que foi abordado.
Leitura ok, que poderia ter sido maravilhosa e isso me deixa muito triste e frustrada, porque o livro tinha um potencial enorme, mas pra mim a história não foi desenvolvida devidamente.
January 29, 2018
A love story about second chances.... Of sorts...
Kate is an army surgeon, Cooper is injured and brought to her, requiring amputation of his leg. Kate does the surgery without his consent to give him a second chance at life. Kate has her own personal problems, her son is paraplegic, her husband absconding and Cooper is her second chance at love.
My first book by Rachel Dove, I liked the way she has started the book, the introduction of the two main characters, out in the battlefield was realistic and adds colors to the scene. The conversations between Cooper and Kate in the beginning were extremely explosive and that added to the pitch of the book. The story soon moved to their attraction and their love.
Cooper as the male lead, was just so dreamy and strong. The bitterness he initially has on losing a leg is extremely honest and to the point. The author, Rachel Dove then went on to add layers to his persona. From bitterness to anger to determination to hope and finally to courage. Courage to stand up both literally and figuratively, courage to declare his love and courage to stand by his woman and her child. There are so many nuances to Cooper that I was awed by the author's writing.
But then everything stops there...
I didn't like the female lead, Kate. She started so positive and daring, working as a team till the relationship started. Then she went back to her one dimensional facet. I never understood her reasons for her actions. A woman who has seen the war casualties, who has seen combat, whose son is a paraplegic on a wheelchair, suddenly loses all her courage, and I somehow find it hard to believe. She has an almost on-off attitude towards Cooper. And that guy was a Saint to take all that.... Do I need to point out how much I love Cooper???
The rest of the story works as a typical love story boy meets girl ——> they fight ——> they make up ——>they live happily ever after.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and publisher HQ Digital and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Kate is an army surgeon, Cooper is injured and brought to her, requiring amputation of his leg. Kate does the surgery without his consent to give him a second chance at life. Kate has her own personal problems, her son is paraplegic, her husband absconding and Cooper is her second chance at love.
My first book by Rachel Dove, I liked the way she has started the book, the introduction of the two main characters, out in the battlefield was realistic and adds colors to the scene. The conversations between Cooper and Kate in the beginning were extremely explosive and that added to the pitch of the book. The story soon moved to their attraction and their love.
Cooper as the male lead, was just so dreamy and strong. The bitterness he initially has on losing a leg is extremely honest and to the point. The author, Rachel Dove then went on to add layers to his persona. From bitterness to anger to determination to hope and finally to courage. Courage to stand up both literally and figuratively, courage to declare his love and courage to stand by his woman and her child. There are so many nuances to Cooper that I was awed by the author's writing.
But then everything stops there...
I didn't like the female lead, Kate. She started so positive and daring, working as a team till the relationship started. Then she went back to her one dimensional facet. I never understood her reasons for her actions. A woman who has seen the war casualties, who has seen combat, whose son is a paraplegic on a wheelchair, suddenly loses all her courage, and I somehow find it hard to believe. She has an almost on-off attitude towards Cooper. And that guy was a Saint to take all that.... Do I need to point out how much I love Cooper???
The rest of the story works as a typical love story boy meets girl ——> they fight ——> they make up ——>they live happily ever after.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and publisher HQ Digital and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
January 21, 2018
The book begins in an explosive manner.............right there on the battle torn streets of Iraq where we meet Captain Thomas Cooper or Coop as his friends and brothers in arms call him. He is left in a desperate situation trying to save his unit when he himself becomes a casualty of war and as a result is thrown into Dr Kate Harper's world of trauma surgery. Faced with an impossible situation and going against Coop's wishes, she saves his life. Unbeknownst to them both they would each play a major part in rebuilding each others lives away from the war zone and back home in England where Kate's marriage is falling apart and where her own son is fighting his own battle for survival.
This is a book that doesn't hold back on the horrors of war and the devastation it causes to everyone. Tough decisions have to be made in extraordinary circumstances and Kate is a strong enough woman to make them. Coop has met his match in her. Rachel Dove has created two exceptionally strong characters who are both flawed, frightened and fighting personal battles behind the wall they put up around themselves. Coop must try to find the strength and courage to rebuild his life and Kate must look deep within herself to allow him to help her this time. The book also has some wonderful secondary characters such as Rita who works in the rehabilitation centre and indeed even Kate's husband. What a weasel!
The book is written in the third person but also switches to Cooper's point of view too and I feel this helps us gain a greater understanding of the physical and emotional pain he is going through. I knew someone in a similar situation as Coop and Rachel Dove has covered all the bases in her interpretation of Coop's suffering both physical and emotional. This is a brilliant book and one that I really enjoyed despite it reducing me to tears on more than one occasion. By the last chapters I was a blubbering mess! But, there were tears of joy too! Kate's difficulties with her son and her own broken heart set against the angst that poor Coop is feeling really did tug at my heart strings. A well written, beautifully paced and emotional read. Highly recommended.
This is a book that doesn't hold back on the horrors of war and the devastation it causes to everyone. Tough decisions have to be made in extraordinary circumstances and Kate is a strong enough woman to make them. Coop has met his match in her. Rachel Dove has created two exceptionally strong characters who are both flawed, frightened and fighting personal battles behind the wall they put up around themselves. Coop must try to find the strength and courage to rebuild his life and Kate must look deep within herself to allow him to help her this time. The book also has some wonderful secondary characters such as Rita who works in the rehabilitation centre and indeed even Kate's husband. What a weasel!
The book is written in the third person but also switches to Cooper's point of view too and I feel this helps us gain a greater understanding of the physical and emotional pain he is going through. I knew someone in a similar situation as Coop and Rachel Dove has covered all the bases in her interpretation of Coop's suffering both physical and emotional. This is a brilliant book and one that I really enjoyed despite it reducing me to tears on more than one occasion. By the last chapters I was a blubbering mess! But, there were tears of joy too! Kate's difficulties with her son and her own broken heart set against the angst that poor Coop is feeling really did tug at my heart strings. A well written, beautifully paced and emotional read. Highly recommended.
February 8, 2018
At the beginning of The Long Walk Back, Kate, a battlefield surgeon, performs a BKA on the wounded Captain Cooper, who would rather die than lose his leg, as well as suffering from PTSD and grief for the loss of one of the men in his unit. After return to England, Cooper gradually learns to adjust to a prosthesis under Kate’s care. But she has a young son who was severely injured in a car smash, the fault of her estranged husband. It is a pleasant and agreeable work of light romantic fiction, but there is not quite enough plot to hold our interest all the way to the end.
I chose to read this book mostly because I’m planning someday (Deo volente) to write a novel with a similar plot, only in my story the caregiver will be a Navy chaplain rather than a surgeon and the patient will be a burn victim and an officer, RM. That difference brings out my principal problem with this book, Kate is not very convincing as an army surgeon, most of the time she acts much more like a civilian, and after the scene moves to the rehabilitation centre at home, she seems to function much like a physiotherapist than like a surgeon. I found Kate’s concern for her son affecting and was quite caught up with her difficulties getting divorced from her sleazy husband Neil. But her lack of self-confidence, especially in pursuing her relationship with Cooper even after it’s clear they belong together, made me feel the story was deliberately prolonged. The climactic scene at the regimental dinner was most moving, though. If I ever do try my hand at something similar, however, I doubt I’ll stick with this theme for more than a couple of chapters before giving my characters something else to do.
I chose to read this book mostly because I’m planning someday (Deo volente) to write a novel with a similar plot, only in my story the caregiver will be a Navy chaplain rather than a surgeon and the patient will be a burn victim and an officer, RM. That difference brings out my principal problem with this book, Kate is not very convincing as an army surgeon, most of the time she acts much more like a civilian, and after the scene moves to the rehabilitation centre at home, she seems to function much like a physiotherapist than like a surgeon. I found Kate’s concern for her son affecting and was quite caught up with her difficulties getting divorced from her sleazy husband Neil. But her lack of self-confidence, especially in pursuing her relationship with Cooper even after it’s clear they belong together, made me feel the story was deliberately prolonged. The climactic scene at the regimental dinner was most moving, though. If I ever do try my hand at something similar, however, I doubt I’ll stick with this theme for more than a couple of chapters before giving my characters something else to do.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2018
I’ve often said that a book I’m happy to shout about has to capture my heart – this book grabbed it in a vice-like grip from the opening pages. And it never let go – it squeezed and pulled from beginning to end, made me cry repeatedly, gave me an achy stomach… then threw me out at the end with a big smile on my face. Yes, it really is that good.
If the blurb makes you think of People’s Friend, don’t be fooled for a moment – this is a book with real power that would blow away the most critical of readers. It’s a romance, but one with a real difference, not just army surgeon and injured soldier but two lead characters that you’ll take to your heart from the explosive beginning to the uncertain end. Kate’s family story gave it additional depth (and some of the most heart-breaking moments, through the struggles of and with her son), but it was the central love story that really did it for me. There’s a scene near the end – at a prize-giving ceremony – that had me in pieces.
The research – and its use – is detailed and meticulous, the psychological impact on a patient in Coop’s position so well described (I loved the mirror…). That carried through to the son too – everyone knows my antipathy towards children in key roles in books, but this one broke my heart into little pieces. The characterisation is just wonderful, damaged people finding joy among the immense sadness of their situation. As for Cooper himself, my goodness, what a wonderful character – his damaged body, his love for his “family”, his immense capacity for love – words fail me. I absolutely loved this book – but I’m rather guessing you can tell.
If the blurb makes you think of People’s Friend, don’t be fooled for a moment – this is a book with real power that would blow away the most critical of readers. It’s a romance, but one with a real difference, not just army surgeon and injured soldier but two lead characters that you’ll take to your heart from the explosive beginning to the uncertain end. Kate’s family story gave it additional depth (and some of the most heart-breaking moments, through the struggles of and with her son), but it was the central love story that really did it for me. There’s a scene near the end – at a prize-giving ceremony – that had me in pieces.
The research – and its use – is detailed and meticulous, the psychological impact on a patient in Coop’s position so well described (I loved the mirror…). That carried through to the son too – everyone knows my antipathy towards children in key roles in books, but this one broke my heart into little pieces. The characterisation is just wonderful, damaged people finding joy among the immense sadness of their situation. As for Cooper himself, my goodness, what a wonderful character – his damaged body, his love for his “family”, his immense capacity for love – words fail me. I absolutely loved this book – but I’m rather guessing you can tell.
January 8, 2018
So I guess I should start by saying that I'm a pretty emotional person I will cry at both sad and happy moments, I just can't help myself! When I first picked up this book I really had no clue as to how involved I would become in the story. There were parts of the storyline that well and truly had me choked up you know those times where you try to take a breath these parts were pretty much always involving Kate and her son. Even if you don't have the same reaction as me I really do think that parts of this book will make you think and feel. It didn't take me long at all to become fully immersed in the story and even though there was the emotional conflict within the story there were also moments of humour that created a lovely balance.
The characters were complicated but so engaging, I loved Kate and Cooper they were written well and made me root for them right from the start. They have a magnetic connection and I couldn't wait to see how it would all end especially as they are so similar with their stubborn but also resilient nature. I loved the theme of second chances even though it is difficult to contemplate moving forward. Along with trying to look to the future and make the best of what life throws at you. There was family drama, love and friendship all coming together to make a story that held my attention all the way through.
Emotional but hopeful too, a gorgeous story!
Five stars from me!
With thanks to Brook Cottage Books & Rachel Dove for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion
The characters were complicated but so engaging, I loved Kate and Cooper they were written well and made me root for them right from the start. They have a magnetic connection and I couldn't wait to see how it would all end especially as they are so similar with their stubborn but also resilient nature. I loved the theme of second chances even though it is difficult to contemplate moving forward. Along with trying to look to the future and make the best of what life throws at you. There was family drama, love and friendship all coming together to make a story that held my attention all the way through.
Emotional but hopeful too, a gorgeous story!
Five stars from me!
With thanks to Brook Cottage Books & Rachel Dove for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion
January 19, 2018
Having already read The Flower Shop on Foxley Street by Rachel Dove, I was intrigued to read another of her books. To be honest, The Long Walk Back sounded quite different, harder-hitting and much more emotive, and I was right, it's both of those things but it still has that romantic feel that the previous book had.
In this book we meet Kate, an orthopaedic surgeon who, looking for something different, a new challenge, is spending a few months working as an army trauma surgeon. One day she is called upon to make a life-changing decision on behalf of Captain Thomas Cooper, a man injured in battle. It's quite obvious where things are going with these two and it leads to a story of love, with many ups and downs along the way.
Kate has more than Cooper to contend with as her family life is also challenging, to say the least. Kate and Cooper are both obstinate people and clash a lot but they're also drawn to each other like moths to a flame. This relationship between them is beautifully written and so full of emotion, I really felt it coming through the words to me as I read. I particularly liked Cooper - what a guy! Strong, caring, considerate, an action hero - wow!
I was impressed at the research the author must have done, not only about war zones and life as an army medic, but of what happens when the injured return home, how they cope etc. It gave me an insight into it all, although I did think Cooper adjusted rather too quickly and rather too well, but maybe some people do.
The Long Walk Back is a lovely read. It's a story of hope, human spirit, intense love, carrying on against the odds. Ultimately, it's an uplifting story and I enjoyed it very much.
In this book we meet Kate, an orthopaedic surgeon who, looking for something different, a new challenge, is spending a few months working as an army trauma surgeon. One day she is called upon to make a life-changing decision on behalf of Captain Thomas Cooper, a man injured in battle. It's quite obvious where things are going with these two and it leads to a story of love, with many ups and downs along the way.
Kate has more than Cooper to contend with as her family life is also challenging, to say the least. Kate and Cooper are both obstinate people and clash a lot but they're also drawn to each other like moths to a flame. This relationship between them is beautifully written and so full of emotion, I really felt it coming through the words to me as I read. I particularly liked Cooper - what a guy! Strong, caring, considerate, an action hero - wow!
I was impressed at the research the author must have done, not only about war zones and life as an army medic, but of what happens when the injured return home, how they cope etc. It gave me an insight into it all, although I did think Cooper adjusted rather too quickly and rather too well, but maybe some people do.
The Long Walk Back is a lovely read. It's a story of hope, human spirit, intense love, carrying on against the odds. Ultimately, it's an uplifting story and I enjoyed it very much.
January 10, 2018
The Long Walk Back drew me in from the very beginning and carried me along with its excellent pacing, a thought-provoking storyline and two compelling main characters. Kate and Cooper are a great combination, and I really admired Kate's independence, strength and fight. I was really moved by the struggles of the main characters and when I wasn't reading the book I was often thinking about them and the challenges of accepting and learning to live with a life-changing injury.
All in all, I found this to be a really well-written and emotional novel with characters that keep you coming back for more.
Thanks to HQ Digital for an ARC.
All in all, I found this to be a really well-written and emotional novel with characters that keep you coming back for more.
Thanks to HQ Digital for an ARC.
January 8, 2018
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
An enjoyable romance with a wounded warrior and a female doctor. Several serious issues are addressed in the story, namely patients’ rights, medical ethics, marriage and divorce and life-altering injuries in beloved ones.
I liked the complexity, the fact that it’s not merely a romantic story and the author’s British/European perspective on soldiers and military intervention.
I felt the story dragged a bit in the middle.
Now, I would love to read Jamie’s story.
I'm grateful to the publisher, HQ Digital, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
An enjoyable romance with a wounded warrior and a female doctor. Several serious issues are addressed in the story, namely patients’ rights, medical ethics, marriage and divorce and life-altering injuries in beloved ones.
I liked the complexity, the fact that it’s not merely a romantic story and the author’s British/European perspective on soldiers and military intervention.
I felt the story dragged a bit in the middle.
Now, I would love to read Jamie’s story.
I'm grateful to the publisher, HQ Digital, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
January 2, 2019
This is a moving story with broken characters working out how best to piece themselves together. There were laugh-out-loud moments as well heart wrenching ones too. The romantic storyline was really well written and really drew me in - overall a really enjoyable read.
January 14, 2018
This is one of the best book I've ever read. I already love it from the beginning.. 😍😍😍
This book make me think, what I would to if I were in their position..
I really hope I can find more books as good as this book!
This book make me think, what I would to if I were in their position..
I really hope I can find more books as good as this book!
January 17, 2018
Well, where do I begin? In a nutshell, this book is simply amazing. The story, the characters not to mention the research that must have gone into it before even one word was written.
There were aspects about Kate I immediately questioned. Leaving her husband and small boy at home while she went to Iraq to work in a field hospital. Part of me said she was doing an amazing job, but I also felt a little sympathy for Neil, trying to hold down his own career while managing an eight year old and obviously not coping well. Having said that, he did seem to use his grievances as a lever to try and get Kate to return home. As the story progressed, however, I found myself firmly on Kate's side. She's an amazing character who copes with some harrowing situations but never lets go of her determination to support both Cooper and her young son Jamie.
Then there is Cooper the career soldier. A man without any family apart from his army colleagues. Faced with the extent of his injuries and a life outside the army, how can he believe there is anything worth living for? He's stubborn and in the beginning comes over as rude and patronising in his dealings with Kate. But as the story progresses and you get to know him it's difficult not to fall in love with this wonderful, honourable man.
The biggest change in my attitude during this read was towards Neil, who at the start I felt sorry for. He was, I soon discovered, weak and cowardly and at times unpleasant and spiteful. Someone who although in possession of his own guilty secrets, (which only came to light at the end of the book) tried to play the victim throughout...and almost got away with it. I loved how Rachel allowed him to lie low through most of the story, leaving me to wonder what was going on and what would happen when he did eventually make an appearance.
This is a hugely emotional read. There is so much more I could say about this book but if I did I'd be giving away far too many spoilers. I so wish I could give this more than 5 stars, it's a fabulous book and should be on everyone's TBR pile.
There were aspects about Kate I immediately questioned. Leaving her husband and small boy at home while she went to Iraq to work in a field hospital. Part of me said she was doing an amazing job, but I also felt a little sympathy for Neil, trying to hold down his own career while managing an eight year old and obviously not coping well. Having said that, he did seem to use his grievances as a lever to try and get Kate to return home. As the story progressed, however, I found myself firmly on Kate's side. She's an amazing character who copes with some harrowing situations but never lets go of her determination to support both Cooper and her young son Jamie.
Then there is Cooper the career soldier. A man without any family apart from his army colleagues. Faced with the extent of his injuries and a life outside the army, how can he believe there is anything worth living for? He's stubborn and in the beginning comes over as rude and patronising in his dealings with Kate. But as the story progresses and you get to know him it's difficult not to fall in love with this wonderful, honourable man.
The biggest change in my attitude during this read was towards Neil, who at the start I felt sorry for. He was, I soon discovered, weak and cowardly and at times unpleasant and spiteful. Someone who although in possession of his own guilty secrets, (which only came to light at the end of the book) tried to play the victim throughout...and almost got away with it. I loved how Rachel allowed him to lie low through most of the story, leaving me to wonder what was going on and what would happen when he did eventually make an appearance.
This is a hugely emotional read. There is so much more I could say about this book but if I did I'd be giving away far too many spoilers. I so wish I could give this more than 5 stars, it's a fabulous book and should be on everyone's TBR pile.
February 17, 2019
Yes, this is a love story which I usually refuse to read. however, there is soooooooooo much more in this book. The author makes the characters beleivable and real. A surgeon amputes the leg of a colonel against his will. This is the story of how they both fought back to live. Each one has tremendous difficulties to overcome. i loved the ending.
January 15, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
What an opening!! The first couple of pages of this novel had me absolutely gripped. Will they survive or won't they? How would they come back from the devastating situation they witnessed? Only time would tell, but it was going to be a rollercoaster ride of a journey, whichever way it went.
It was pretty clear from the onset that the storyline was going to be highly emotive - I just didn't expect it to be THAT emotional. 'The Long Walk Back' covers a variety of topics, always giving you something to sink your teeth into when you turn the page. Obviously I can't discuss my thoughts on the plot too much, as that would result in spoilers!
I have to admit though, there were times when I could not stand Kate. I found a lot of her actions to be extremely selfish and self-centred, especially given the nature of her circumstances. Whilst I realise that people react in different ways during troublesome times, I found Kate's reactions to be jaw dropping. And not in a good way. On the other side of the coin though, there were times where I thoroughly enjoyed reading about her journey, hoping for the best outcome for her current situation. Kate had gone through so much in such a short space of time, I'm not disputing that at all, I just wish she didn't make me go 'hmmmmm' a lot of times, that's all.
As for Cooper, well, I think the author hit the nail on the head regarding his character traits, especially how he reacted to a certain life changing event. His heart always seemed to be in the right place which, whilst was so lovely to read, I felt it was wasted on Kate. God I sound nasty don't I haha. Just to clarify, these are my opinions of the characters and not my opinion of the authors writing. I treat characters in books like real people!
Overall, I really did enjoy reading 'The Long Walk Back' as it was so refreshing to read a storyline which laid a lot of 'taboo' subjects bare, showing readers that there are people in the real world who deal with things like the characters in the book. It was realistic, relatable and of course, emotionally charged. I absolutely love Rachel Dove's writing style as she always seems to get into the heart of her characters, ensuring that they deliver the storyline to the highest level. Once again, I do think that the author has delivered on that, and I feel that Rachel Dove should be exceptionally proud of the rock solid storyline she has created.
Emotional, heart-warming, and most definitely eye-opening; 'The Long Walk Back' will make you look at your life in a completely different way, changing your mindset from just 'being' to 'living'.
What an opening!! The first couple of pages of this novel had me absolutely gripped. Will they survive or won't they? How would they come back from the devastating situation they witnessed? Only time would tell, but it was going to be a rollercoaster ride of a journey, whichever way it went.
It was pretty clear from the onset that the storyline was going to be highly emotive - I just didn't expect it to be THAT emotional. 'The Long Walk Back' covers a variety of topics, always giving you something to sink your teeth into when you turn the page. Obviously I can't discuss my thoughts on the plot too much, as that would result in spoilers!
I have to admit though, there were times when I could not stand Kate. I found a lot of her actions to be extremely selfish and self-centred, especially given the nature of her circumstances. Whilst I realise that people react in different ways during troublesome times, I found Kate's reactions to be jaw dropping. And not in a good way. On the other side of the coin though, there were times where I thoroughly enjoyed reading about her journey, hoping for the best outcome for her current situation. Kate had gone through so much in such a short space of time, I'm not disputing that at all, I just wish she didn't make me go 'hmmmmm' a lot of times, that's all.
As for Cooper, well, I think the author hit the nail on the head regarding his character traits, especially how he reacted to a certain life changing event. His heart always seemed to be in the right place which, whilst was so lovely to read, I felt it was wasted on Kate. God I sound nasty don't I haha. Just to clarify, these are my opinions of the characters and not my opinion of the authors writing. I treat characters in books like real people!
Overall, I really did enjoy reading 'The Long Walk Back' as it was so refreshing to read a storyline which laid a lot of 'taboo' subjects bare, showing readers that there are people in the real world who deal with things like the characters in the book. It was realistic, relatable and of course, emotionally charged. I absolutely love Rachel Dove's writing style as she always seems to get into the heart of her characters, ensuring that they deliver the storyline to the highest level. Once again, I do think that the author has delivered on that, and I feel that Rachel Dove should be exceptionally proud of the rock solid storyline she has created.
Emotional, heart-warming, and most definitely eye-opening; 'The Long Walk Back' will make you look at your life in a completely different way, changing your mindset from just 'being' to 'living'.
June 14, 2018
3* Second Chance Stars
I was immediately drawn into the story of Captain Thomas Cooper, who is fighting on the streets of Iraq and Kate Harper, who is an Army Trauma Nurse. They encounter each other under very dangerous and difficult circumstances. Decisions will be made by both of them, which causes a lot of tension and anger between them and those close to them.
The slow burn chemistry between Cooper and Kate was realistic and sexy. The secondary characters were interesting and likeable, except for Kate’s husband Neil who was weak and selfish.
This is a story full of hope and being strong enough to overcome what life has suddenly dealt you. It has a beautiful cover too.
Thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review The Long Walk Back.
I was immediately drawn into the story of Captain Thomas Cooper, who is fighting on the streets of Iraq and Kate Harper, who is an Army Trauma Nurse. They encounter each other under very dangerous and difficult circumstances. Decisions will be made by both of them, which causes a lot of tension and anger between them and those close to them.
The slow burn chemistry between Cooper and Kate was realistic and sexy. The secondary characters were interesting and likeable, except for Kate’s husband Neil who was weak and selfish.
This is a story full of hope and being strong enough to overcome what life has suddenly dealt you. It has a beautiful cover too.
Thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review The Long Walk Back.
December 28, 2024
Rating: 2.5/5 stars
Primary Tropes/Features: Medical romance, Doctor/Patient, Single parent (Mother), Slow burn, Dual timeline, Fade to black spice
Secondary Tropes/Features: Military romance, Mixed 1st person & 3rd person narrative
Safety warning/Triggers:
‘The Long Walk Back’ was an emotive and enjoyable romance of overcoming unexpected and horrific life changes and moving on to build something unexpected and filled with love.
Both Cooper and Kate were strong individuals who knew their life purpose and knew how to do it well but when that purpose was lost they lost themselves to anger, uncertainty, and depression. Their new reality and the emotions that came with it were raw and with that so was the romance development. The book’s narrative focused on difficult themes and the characters were in extremely difficult periods of their life but they matched each other’s fire and pain, eventually tearing down barriers. It wasn’t always easy but due to the ease in which feelings began to develop and how fierce those emotions were, despite some conflicting thoughts, it was romance with an easy slow burn feel.
I found the book to have a simple and well paced plot which was well matched with the low level of fade to black spice. However, I wasn't interested in the third act drama/breakup which was a shame considering my enjoyment of the book up till that point. I think it came out of nowhere and happened very quickly. Which combined with how late in the book it happened, the detached 3rd person narrative, and how quickly it resolved ruined the last part of the book. It was saved by the cute epilogue and happy ending but even that felt abrupt and only like half a chapter.
This book is definitely worth taking a chance on with its exploration of difficult themes and how well things come together overall but I think the 3rd person narrative was too detached for my liking and that lessened my enjoyment.
Favourite Quote:
Primary Tropes/Features: Medical romance, Doctor/Patient, Single parent (Mother), Slow burn, Dual timeline, Fade to black spice
Secondary Tropes/Features: Military romance, Mixed 1st person & 3rd person narrative
Safety warning/Triggers:
‘The Long Walk Back’ was an emotive and enjoyable romance of overcoming unexpected and horrific life changes and moving on to build something unexpected and filled with love.
Both Cooper and Kate were strong individuals who knew their life purpose and knew how to do it well but when that purpose was lost they lost themselves to anger, uncertainty, and depression. Their new reality and the emotions that came with it were raw and with that so was the romance development. The book’s narrative focused on difficult themes and the characters were in extremely difficult periods of their life but they matched each other’s fire and pain, eventually tearing down barriers. It wasn’t always easy but due to the ease in which feelings began to develop and how fierce those emotions were, despite some conflicting thoughts, it was romance with an easy slow burn feel.
I found the book to have a simple and well paced plot which was well matched with the low level of fade to black spice. However, I wasn't interested in the third act drama/breakup which was a shame considering my enjoyment of the book up till that point. I think it came out of nowhere and happened very quickly. Which combined with how late in the book it happened, the detached 3rd person narrative, and how quickly it resolved ruined the last part of the book. It was saved by the cute epilogue and happy ending but even that felt abrupt and only like half a chapter.
This book is definitely worth taking a chance on with its exploration of difficult themes and how well things come together overall but I think the 3rd person narrative was too detached for my liking and that lessened my enjoyment.
Favourite Quote:
‘I was ready to fight again. Not for the government, or for the safety of others, but for a life of my own. I wanted to be in her corner; hers and Jamie's. Putting up a barrier was something we both did, but now it was time to build our own, against the world.’
March 18, 2018
Kate is a surgeon, wanting a challenge she goes to war as an army theatre surgeon. She leaves behind her husband, Neil and her son Jamie.
Captain Thomas Cooper, faces challenges every day - but this is the life he has chosen and the army is his family. Nothing and no one else is going to change that. Until one fateful day.
Cooper and Kate meet.
Cooper knows his own mind. He knows whether he wants to live or to die.
Kate knows her own mind and everyone must live.
But what if you go against someone's wishes and give them a second chance when they didn't want it?
Second chances can then lead to more chances, one action causes several reactions.
Will Cooper benefit from the action that Kate took?
This book is hard-hitting from the beginning, if you want to get a close up on war and its devastating effects then you get this with the opening few pages. What is hard to believe is that an author that you know on the whole to have written women's fiction comes back with a book so far removed from a 'rosy' world normally created in such genres. It hits you right between the eyes - and I loved it.
So much is packed into this book, I couldn't begin to try and unpick it as that would spoil it for anyone else picking it up to read. Character driven with two very pig-headed, stubborn, driven and strong personalities that leapt off the page for me. I thought Cooper was great and I recognised the military ethos that is ingrained in some of our servicemen and women no matter what circumstances they are thrust into.
Kate, I wanted to slap at various times not because of the portrayal of the character but because of it. Well written, I constantly questioned as to whether I was meant to feel sorry for her or not? Was the situation she in unique or did bad luck seem to follow her around? I was not expecting the twist and once the background to an event was filled in, I perhaps felt something else for her. I just couldn't make my mind up about her and whilst some readers might find that annoying, I enjoyed the uncertainty of it all.
A different read, a bit of an emotional rollercoaster - but worth it to the very end.
Captain Thomas Cooper, faces challenges every day - but this is the life he has chosen and the army is his family. Nothing and no one else is going to change that. Until one fateful day.
Cooper and Kate meet.
Cooper knows his own mind. He knows whether he wants to live or to die.
Kate knows her own mind and everyone must live.
But what if you go against someone's wishes and give them a second chance when they didn't want it?
Second chances can then lead to more chances, one action causes several reactions.
Will Cooper benefit from the action that Kate took?
This book is hard-hitting from the beginning, if you want to get a close up on war and its devastating effects then you get this with the opening few pages. What is hard to believe is that an author that you know on the whole to have written women's fiction comes back with a book so far removed from a 'rosy' world normally created in such genres. It hits you right between the eyes - and I loved it.
So much is packed into this book, I couldn't begin to try and unpick it as that would spoil it for anyone else picking it up to read. Character driven with two very pig-headed, stubborn, driven and strong personalities that leapt off the page for me. I thought Cooper was great and I recognised the military ethos that is ingrained in some of our servicemen and women no matter what circumstances they are thrust into.
Kate, I wanted to slap at various times not because of the portrayal of the character but because of it. Well written, I constantly questioned as to whether I was meant to feel sorry for her or not? Was the situation she in unique or did bad luck seem to follow her around? I was not expecting the twist and once the background to an event was filled in, I perhaps felt something else for her. I just couldn't make my mind up about her and whilst some readers might find that annoying, I enjoyed the uncertainty of it all.
A different read, a bit of an emotional rollercoaster - but worth it to the very end.
May 21, 2018
I absolutely loved this modern family saga. Kate is married and has a teenage son called Jason. She takes a posting as a field doctor. One of her patients is casualty Captain Cooper, he is ready to die from his injuries. However against his wishes Kate operates removing one of his legs. Kate then gets an emergency call to go back home. her husband and son have been in a car accident. Jamie is now paralysed and receiving treatment in the same hospital as Captain Cooper. Kate takes a job there as a physiotherapist and tries to get her son to speak to her again. He hasn't spoken to her since the accident. She bonds with Cooper and sparks fly. Is there a future for the three of them together as a family?
September 21, 2024
A novel of recovery after devastation
This really was a gut-wrenching novel in so many respects. It tells of a marriage that should have ended years earlier, a devastating car accident with life altering injuries to a child, a soldier who isn't sure life has any value if he can't return to his unit after an encounter with an ied, and a strong woman who will fight fiercely for those she loves. There were a few places where I felt another editing pass would be helpful, but the story itself pulled me right in. It is a story where hope wins.
This really was a gut-wrenching novel in so many respects. It tells of a marriage that should have ended years earlier, a devastating car accident with life altering injuries to a child, a soldier who isn't sure life has any value if he can't return to his unit after an encounter with an ied, and a strong woman who will fight fiercely for those she loves. There were a few places where I felt another editing pass would be helpful, but the story itself pulled me right in. It is a story where hope wins.
January 30, 2018
Sometimes perfection comes from collecting and gluing together the pieces from the aftermaths of destruction.
Rachel Dove brings us two broken, reluctant characters who we can't help but root for. Captain Cooper's stubbornness and Dr Harper's strength should be a recipe for disaster. What brings them together should tear them apart but the bond they have could just be enough to piece each other back together again.
This was a warmhearted read and a wonderful story of second chances. I found myself unable to put this book down as I was so immersed in the characters and I just had to see how the story ended.
Rachel Dove brings us two broken, reluctant characters who we can't help but root for. Captain Cooper's stubbornness and Dr Harper's strength should be a recipe for disaster. What brings them together should tear them apart but the bond they have could just be enough to piece each other back together again.
This was a warmhearted read and a wonderful story of second chances. I found myself unable to put this book down as I was so immersed in the characters and I just had to see how the story ended.
May 10, 2018
This was a good and at times really emotional read about two damaged people who might just find a second chance at love together. This was a really well-written story with great character. I enjoy a book that can have me laughing at loud one minute and then crying my heart out the next and this book did that.
November 23, 2024
Wow
I didn't think I was going to like this when I started reading it. From a battle field in Iraq to a field hospital in Iraq. But as I read more of the book the reason for starting in Iraq was evident. If you give it a chance the love story grows. I came to care a lot about these characters. Good story
I didn't think I was going to like this when I started reading it. From a battle field in Iraq to a field hospital in Iraq. But as I read more of the book the reason for starting in Iraq was evident. If you give it a chance the love story grows. I came to care a lot about these characters. Good story
November 6, 2023
must read. this author is relatively new to me but I am obsessed with her stories. will be reading more of them in the near future. Rachel doves books rank up there with katherine center and lauren k denton. Two of my other "best bets" for a good read.
November 2, 2024
Emotionnal
Real raw emotions, no magical romance but true life stories. Not a fairytale. Gripping and beautiful story of love and courage
Real raw emotions, no magical romance but true life stories. Not a fairytale. Gripping and beautiful story of love and courage
November 8, 2024
Different to the other books I read of this author. But so beautiful
December 1, 2024
Sweet and Heartfelt!
This was a sweet and heartfelt story. I love me a military man, and Cooper and Kate were perfect, even in their imperfectness! ♥️
This was a sweet and heartfelt story. I love me a military man, and Cooper and Kate were perfect, even in their imperfectness! ♥️
August 25, 2024
I nearly never read this book! I’m not normally one who takes much notice of a cover but this one screams slushy, fluffy romantic nonsense, don’t hate me it’s only my opinion! But I actually really enjoyed The Long Walk Back it’s such a beautifully told story which deals with some tough topics. I adored the characters and I find myself hoping Kate, son Jamie and Cooper would find their happy ever after💕
August 15, 2024
The story focuses on Kate home from being a medic in the war and picking up the pieces of her life after returning and finding her marriage in pieces and some really tough matters to deal with. Thomas Cooper returns from war as an injured soldier and finds that extremely hard to deal with but when Kate and Tomas's paths cross again their anger and loss somehow unites them and they end up being a huge help to each other, but can this also lead to real love?
I saw this book recommended on a Facebook group and thought I had to give it a try. I was super moved by this story. Perhaps even more so as a mother myself and having had to deal with medical issues of loved ones. This story was both heartbreaking, sad, moving, sweet and heartwarming… a rollercoaster of emotions. I will definitely be reading more books by this author!
I saw this book recommended on a Facebook group and thought I had to give it a try. I was super moved by this story. Perhaps even more so as a mother myself and having had to deal with medical issues of loved ones. This story was both heartbreaking, sad, moving, sweet and heartwarming… a rollercoaster of emotions. I will definitely be reading more books by this author!
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