What do you think?
Rate this book
Black Dawn #2
Her Devoted HERO
Navy SEAL Dex Evans has a problem. His buddies think it’s a riot when they sign him up for a dating service behind his back. But who would have thought that with a profile like SailorBoy69 he’d snag a woman who was hysterically funny and gorgeous. Too bad she was also skittish as all hell. Dex fears that when she finds out his profile was a set-up, his happily ever after could sink to the bottom of the ocean.
Single mother, Kenna Wright was in way over her head. She’d spent years putting her child first while ignoring her needs. So what was she thinking responding to the flirtatious email? Luckily for her, when she is stuck on a project with Dex, he’s even better in person than he’d been on his online profile. But can she believe this sexy SEAL when he says he’s looking for more than a fling?
When one of her co-workers is murdered and it looks like Kenna might be the next one in the killer’s crosshairs, Dex is determined to keep her safe. But with a target on her back, it’s really hard to keep a shield over her heart.
Single mother, Kenna Wright was in way over her head. She’d spent years putting her child first while ignoring her needs. So what was she thinking responding to the flirtatious email? Luckily for her, when she is stuck on a project with Dex, he’s even better in person than he’d been on his online profile. But can she believe this sexy SEAL when he says he’s looking for more than a fling?
When one of her co-workers is murdered and it looks like Kenna might be the next one in the killer’s crosshairs, Dex is determined to keep her safe. But with a target on her back, it’s really hard to keep a shield over her heart.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2017
1580 people are currently reading
825 people want to read
About the author
Caitlyn O'Leary
72 books1,260 followersCaitlyn O’Leary is a USA Bestselling Author, #1 Amazon Bestselling Author and a Golden Quill Recipient from Book Viral in 2015. Hampered with a mild form of dyslexia she began memorizing books at an early age until her grandmother, the English teacher, took the time to teach her to read -- then she never stopped. She began re-writing alternate endings for her Trixie Belden books into happily-ever-afters with Trixie's platonic friend Jim. When she was home with pneumonia at twelve, she read the entire set of World Book Encyclopedias -- a little more challenging to end those happily.
Caitlyn loves writing about Alpha males with strong heroines who keep the men on their toes. There is plenty of action, suspense and humor in her books. She is never shy about tackling some of today’s tough and relevant issues.
In addition to being an award-winning author of romantic suspense novels, she is a devoted aunt, an avid reader, a former corporate executive for a Fortune 100 company, and totally in love with her husband of soon-to-be twenty years.
She recently moved back home to the Pacific Northwest from Southern California. She is so happy to see the seasons again; rain, rain and more rain. She has a large fan group on Facebook and through her e-mail list. Caitlyn is known for telling her “Caitlyn Factors”, where she relates her little and big life’s screw-ups. The list is long. She loves hearing and connecting with her fans on a daily basis.
Caitlyn loves writing about Alpha males with strong heroines who keep the men on their toes. There is plenty of action, suspense and humor in her books. She is never shy about tackling some of today’s tough and relevant issues.
In addition to being an award-winning author of romantic suspense novels, she is a devoted aunt, an avid reader, a former corporate executive for a Fortune 100 company, and totally in love with her husband of soon-to-be twenty years.
She recently moved back home to the Pacific Northwest from Southern California. She is so happy to see the seasons again; rain, rain and more rain. She has a large fan group on Facebook and through her e-mail list. Caitlyn is known for telling her “Caitlyn Factors”, where she relates her little and big life’s screw-ups. The list is long. She loves hearing and connecting with her fans on a daily basis.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews
January 29, 2018
ARC received for review
Hi, it's me, the person who loves to skip the first book in a series. Not really, but it seems to happen a lot. I wasn't lost with not having read the first book.
Loved Dex/SailorBoy. His emails to Poppy/Kenna were great, and so were her's back to him. They are starting a great relationship when a stalker comes along to try and mess it up. I sure didn't have any clue who the bad guy was. Her son was awesome. I look forward to more books in this series, and maybe some day I'll go back and read the first one.
Hi, it's me, the person who loves to skip the first book in a series. Not really, but it seems to happen a lot. I wasn't lost with not having read the first book.
Loved Dex/SailorBoy. His emails to Poppy/Kenna were great, and so were her's back to him. They are starting a great relationship when a stalker comes along to try and mess it up. I sure didn't have any clue who the bad guy was. Her son was awesome. I look forward to more books in this series, and maybe some day I'll go back and read the first one.
February 25, 2018
Is it me? Recently all I seem to have read are books which have an identity crisis, and this is no exception.
The book started off well, Navy SEAL Dex Evans' friends have signed him up to a dating website and emailed hundreds of women expressing interest. Being the good guy he is, he is emailing each and every woman who responded to apologise and explain that his account had been hacked. But then he finds a charming, funny and self-deprecating response from a woman calling herself SNMP - So Not Mary Poppins. Although he goes off on a mission Dex manages to continue a tentative relationship with Mary Poppins and gets his brilliant buddies to track down her real name and address, he can tell she is having second, third and fourth thoughts about sending him that response. Mary Poppins is really single mom and nurse Kenna Wright. I loved Kenna's response, it was witty and natural and engaging.
Then we find that Kenna has a second job as a personal assistant to a wealthy, eccentric elderly woman called Rosalie Randall. Rosalie has taken a vested interest in Kenna's love life, she even persuaded her grandson Buddy to buy the dating website just so that the two of them could check up on Kenna and how many responses she receives!! Frankly this was a ridiculous plot device and I have a pet loathing for interfering elderly people acting as cupid.
Then one of Kenna's friends at the hospital is murdered in her own home and the police suspect it may be linked to the dating website that both women were members of. Suddenly this had slipped from a humorous romance to a farce and then to a suspense. Dex turned into an obnoxious he-man, issuing orders left right and centre, despite the fact that he and Kenna had only been on two dates. I would go further and say that Dex cross a line and ventured into that creepy territory where he was overstepping his relationship with Kenna. As usual, the police were hostile and only the Navy SEALs could uncover the identity of killer.
It was okay, but the three parts of the book didn't really hang together very well in my opinion. I also have very little patience for characters who fall in love instantly and then won't listen when the other person isn't on the same page. Again, borderline stalker.
This is the second book in a series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone and TBH I have no idea which characters could have been in the first book as I didn't get that vibe from any of the other characters.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The book started off well, Navy SEAL Dex Evans' friends have signed him up to a dating website and emailed hundreds of women expressing interest. Being the good guy he is, he is emailing each and every woman who responded to apologise and explain that his account had been hacked. But then he finds a charming, funny and self-deprecating response from a woman calling herself SNMP - So Not Mary Poppins. Although he goes off on a mission Dex manages to continue a tentative relationship with Mary Poppins and gets his brilliant buddies to track down her real name and address, he can tell she is having second, third and fourth thoughts about sending him that response. Mary Poppins is really single mom and nurse Kenna Wright. I loved Kenna's response, it was witty and natural and engaging.
Then we find that Kenna has a second job as a personal assistant to a wealthy, eccentric elderly woman called Rosalie Randall. Rosalie has taken a vested interest in Kenna's love life, she even persuaded her grandson Buddy to buy the dating website just so that the two of them could check up on Kenna and how many responses she receives!! Frankly this was a ridiculous plot device and I have a pet loathing for interfering elderly people acting as cupid.
Then one of Kenna's friends at the hospital is murdered in her own home and the police suspect it may be linked to the dating website that both women were members of. Suddenly this had slipped from a humorous romance to a farce and then to a suspense. Dex turned into an obnoxious he-man, issuing orders left right and centre, despite the fact that he and Kenna had only been on two dates. I would go further and say that Dex cross a line and ventured into that creepy territory where he was overstepping his relationship with Kenna. As usual, the police were hostile and only the Navy SEALs could uncover the identity of killer.
It was okay, but the three parts of the book didn't really hang together very well in my opinion. I also have very little patience for characters who fall in love instantly and then won't listen when the other person isn't on the same page. Again, borderline stalker.
This is the second book in a series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone and TBH I have no idea which characters could have been in the first book as I didn't get that vibe from any of the other characters.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
December 6, 2020
Dex, as a SEAL, knows many ways he can kill his friends from a rival unit. It would, after all, probably be deemed justifiable, considering they signed him up on a dating service as a joke, and gave him the username of SailorBoy69. But, when a funny and gorgeous woman responds, they just may live another day. Of course, when she learns the truth behind his profile, his imagined future with her may never happen.
Kenna, a nurse and single mom, is finally doing something for herself when she responds to a flirty email, though she's still unsure why she did it. It's just some harmless fun, right? Well, it would be, until it becomes real when she and Dex continue writing one another.
But, when they're paired together for a project, thanks to her friend and boss, Rosalie's loving manipulation, err idea, Kenna's plan to distance herself is blown to pieces. And, to her shock, she discovers in real life, he really is a great guy. But, does he really want a commitment, or is he only committed to the bachelor life?
When a co-worker of Kenna is murdered, and she herself may be the next target, Dex will do anything to keep her safe, and try to win her heart at the same time. But, that's not the only thing going on Dex and Kenna must work through as it seems someone else was intrigued by Kenna's dating profile, and they refuse to take her silence as an answer.
Can Dex keep Kenna safe? Will Kenna allow Dex into her heart? Will Dex show her she's his future? Is there a HEA for them?
One-click now and follow along as a practical joke played by a friend leads to the love of a lifetime.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Kenna, a nurse and single mom, is finally doing something for herself when she responds to a flirty email, though she's still unsure why she did it. It's just some harmless fun, right? Well, it would be, until it becomes real when she and Dex continue writing one another.
But, when they're paired together for a project, thanks to her friend and boss, Rosalie's loving manipulation, err idea, Kenna's plan to distance herself is blown to pieces. And, to her shock, she discovers in real life, he really is a great guy. But, does he really want a commitment, or is he only committed to the bachelor life?
When a co-worker of Kenna is murdered, and she herself may be the next target, Dex will do anything to keep her safe, and try to win her heart at the same time. But, that's not the only thing going on Dex and Kenna must work through as it seems someone else was intrigued by Kenna's dating profile, and they refuse to take her silence as an answer.
Can Dex keep Kenna safe? Will Kenna allow Dex into her heart? Will Dex show her she's his future? Is there a HEA for them?
One-click now and follow along as a practical joke played by a friend leads to the love of a lifetime.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
January 11, 2018
Our hero is a SEAL and she is a nurse and a single mom of a teenage son. His friends pranked him by putting his profile on a singles site. Her friend made a profile for her to start dating again. Add to that, there is a killer on the loose with his sights set on our heroine.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 14, 2018
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author. (Netgalley) Hmm well I am on a see-saw again. I liked Kenna a single mom and a nurse, she meets or talks to Dex on an on-line dating website, he is on there because his friends set up an account for him and he just went along. My issue is that the story seemed to take some off the wall twists. How you may ask? Well we have interfering grandma, out of nowhere stalker, hero transforms in overprotective Alpha from 2nd date...Now don't get me wrong it was entertaining and I did enjoy when you remind yourself it is fiction and you have you take with a grain of salt. Enjoy!
Want to read
April 18, 2018 Currently FREE (04/18) https://amzn.to/2qGEO5F
Want to read
April 18, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (4/18/2018)!💝
Blurb:
Navy SEAL Dex Evans has a problem. His buddies think it’s a riot when they sign him up for a dating service behind his back. But who would have thought that with a profile like SailorBoy69 he’d snag a woman who was hysterically funny and gorgeous. Too bad she was also skittish as all hell. Dex fears that when she finds out his profile was a set-up, his happily ever after could sink to the bottom of the ocean.
Single mother, Kenna Wright was in way over her head. She’d spent years putting her child first while ignoring her needs. So what was she thinking responding to the flirtatious email? Luckily for her, when she is stuck on a project with Dex, he’s even better in person than he’d been on his online profile. But can she believe this sexy SEAL when he says he’s looking for more than a fling?
When one of her co-workers is murdered and it looks like Kenna might be the next one in the killer’s crosshairs, Dex is determined to keep her safe. But with a target on her back, it’s really hard to keep a shield over her heart.
Blurb:
Navy SEAL Dex Evans has a problem. His buddies think it’s a riot when they sign him up for a dating service behind his back. But who would have thought that with a profile like SailorBoy69 he’d snag a woman who was hysterically funny and gorgeous. Too bad she was also skittish as all hell. Dex fears that when she finds out his profile was a set-up, his happily ever after could sink to the bottom of the ocean.
Single mother, Kenna Wright was in way over her head. She’d spent years putting her child first while ignoring her needs. So what was she thinking responding to the flirtatious email? Luckily for her, when she is stuck on a project with Dex, he’s even better in person than he’d been on his online profile. But can she believe this sexy SEAL when he says he’s looking for more than a fling?
When one of her co-workers is murdered and it looks like Kenna might be the next one in the killer’s crosshairs, Dex is determined to keep her safe. But with a target on her back, it’s really hard to keep a shield over her heart.
August 18, 2018
Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Rinou
Review Copy from the Publisher
2,5/5
Second volume in the Black Dawn series but it can be read alone. Her Devoted Hero presents Dex, a Navy SEAL who had his colleagues playing a trick on him by signing him up on a dating website, and Kenna, a single mother who doesn’t want a man in her life.
The novel begins with Dex methodically replying to every women who contacted him through the website to explain it’s a false profile, except for one woman whose email he found funny because she said she didn’t have time or energy for a relationship. Then we follow Dex on a mission against terrorists, during the preparation of which he sends a reply to that woman who of course is the heroine. Once back from this mission he makes sure to discover her identity and even if she deleted her profile he finds the way to meet her through one of her jobs. Stalker? Just a little. Fortunately that stops there.
All in all Dex and Kenna are interesting characters, separately as together. However I found the heroine’s block concerning relationships and men was a bit exaggerated. The heroine’s teen son is quite pleasant and his relation with his mother enjoyable.
Among the other secondary characters there is Rosalee, an eccentric nonagenarian for whom Kenna works. She’s the kind of person to meddle in everyone’s business, and she does it several times to help the heroine in finding a lover, but that’s something I don’t like in a story, especially when it’s as exaggerated as here.
On the plot side there’s the investigation about the murder of one of Kenna’s friends which allows Dex to get closer to Kenna and almost never letting her out of his sight once he suspects she’s in danger. As he’s a SEAL he crashes the police investigation with more success (rolling my eyes). And when we discover the killer’s identity and his motivations I thought some people really don’t need real motive to kill (rolling my eyes again).
All in all the story is easy to read in spite of this little problems and an obvious lack of editing, but I closed the novel with a mixed feeling of “quite good” and “not deep enough”. Too bad.
Reviewed by Rinou
Review Copy from the Publisher
2,5/5
Second volume in the Black Dawn series but it can be read alone. Her Devoted Hero presents Dex, a Navy SEAL who had his colleagues playing a trick on him by signing him up on a dating website, and Kenna, a single mother who doesn’t want a man in her life.
The novel begins with Dex methodically replying to every women who contacted him through the website to explain it’s a false profile, except for one woman whose email he found funny because she said she didn’t have time or energy for a relationship. Then we follow Dex on a mission against terrorists, during the preparation of which he sends a reply to that woman who of course is the heroine. Once back from this mission he makes sure to discover her identity and even if she deleted her profile he finds the way to meet her through one of her jobs. Stalker? Just a little. Fortunately that stops there.
All in all Dex and Kenna are interesting characters, separately as together. However I found the heroine’s block concerning relationships and men was a bit exaggerated. The heroine’s teen son is quite pleasant and his relation with his mother enjoyable.
Among the other secondary characters there is Rosalee, an eccentric nonagenarian for whom Kenna works. She’s the kind of person to meddle in everyone’s business, and she does it several times to help the heroine in finding a lover, but that’s something I don’t like in a story, especially when it’s as exaggerated as here.
On the plot side there’s the investigation about the murder of one of Kenna’s friends which allows Dex to get closer to Kenna and almost never letting her out of his sight once he suspects she’s in danger. As he’s a SEAL he crashes the police investigation with more success (rolling my eyes). And when we discover the killer’s identity and his motivations I thought some people really don’t need real motive to kill (rolling my eyes again).
All in all the story is easy to read in spite of this little problems and an obvious lack of editing, but I closed the novel with a mixed feeling of “quite good” and “not deep enough”. Too bad.
September 25, 2017
Incredibly strong characters ring true, not just the main ones but the supporting characters as well. Both Seal teams love to pull practical jokes on each other, but when the Midnight Delta team seeks to play the ultimate prank on Black Dawns Computer Tech Dex Evans things start to heat up more than he expects. When SNMP answers SailorBoy69's email, she doesn't expect the depth of emotions he seems to draw from her.
With straightforward honesty Kenna Wright describes herself and all the reasons SailorBoy69 should not respond or have any interest in her at all. Piqued by SNMP's responses Dex can't help himself. When a close friend of Kenna's is horribly murdered, no one ever thought it could in any way be connected to the Dating site they are both connected to. As their lives begin to entangle, work and personal lives become complicated. When threats start coming in to Kenna and her family, Dex is willing to do anything to keep them all safe. The turmoil that ensues will keep you totally enthralled. Great story with a large amount of reality that pulls on this reader to keep reading, I was so into this story I just couldn't put it down until it was done. And I still wanted more! Author Caitlyn O'Leary has another winning book with her Seal Teams, great action and compelling storytelling. Recommend to all Seal Team Lovers and Romantic's who love HEAs! Well Done, can't wait to read more of these Seal Teams!!🌺
With straightforward honesty Kenna Wright describes herself and all the reasons SailorBoy69 should not respond or have any interest in her at all. Piqued by SNMP's responses Dex can't help himself. When a close friend of Kenna's is horribly murdered, no one ever thought it could in any way be connected to the Dating site they are both connected to. As their lives begin to entangle, work and personal lives become complicated. When threats start coming in to Kenna and her family, Dex is willing to do anything to keep them all safe. The turmoil that ensues will keep you totally enthralled. Great story with a large amount of reality that pulls on this reader to keep reading, I was so into this story I just couldn't put it down until it was done. And I still wanted more! Author Caitlyn O'Leary has another winning book with her Seal Teams, great action and compelling storytelling. Recommend to all Seal Team Lovers and Romantic's who love HEAs! Well Done, can't wait to read more of these Seal Teams!!🌺
July 24, 2018
I got this some time ago off of the freebie list. It's a nice, full length, complete story. Kenna is nurse, single mother of a 15 year old son, Austin. She is totally devoted to making a better life for them. A past marriage that left her with a low self esteem. I think it was just easier and less painful to focus on things she could create through hard work versus putting her faith and trust into someone else. She ends up on a dating sight and is flooded with responses, however, there is only one that attracts her attention. It is a man in navy whites. It tugs at her heart because it brings back memories of her father. While she is pulled into her desire for an honorable protector and a father figure for her son doubt settles in telling her it won't work out.
Dex is a navy seal whose friends create a profile, Sailorboy69, on a dating sight. They continue to plug in interests to several woman and he too is flooded with emails. It is SNMP (so not Mary Poppins) that leaves him in stitches. So much so that it inspires several exchanges that are comical and sad all at once. Sad that one bad experience can cause you to always believe the worst. A few dares and friends match making later and the two are face to face learning to trust the other. There is action and elements of danger. There is a psychotic, serial stalker that is killing people around Kenna. It made the story addictive trying to figure out who it was. I thought it was an obvious conclusion but was pleasantly surprised. This is the only book I've read in the series and a complete standalone. Enjoy!
Dex is a navy seal whose friends create a profile, Sailorboy69, on a dating sight. They continue to plug in interests to several woman and he too is flooded with emails. It is SNMP (so not Mary Poppins) that leaves him in stitches. So much so that it inspires several exchanges that are comical and sad all at once. Sad that one bad experience can cause you to always believe the worst. A few dares and friends match making later and the two are face to face learning to trust the other. There is action and elements of danger. There is a psychotic, serial stalker that is killing people around Kenna. It made the story addictive trying to figure out who it was. I thought it was an obvious conclusion but was pleasantly surprised. This is the only book I've read in the series and a complete standalone. Enjoy!
February 24, 2021
Four and a half stars
Her Devoted Hero by Caitlyn O’Leary is the second in her Black Dawn series.
Dexter Anthony Evans, aka Dex, is on the receiving end of a prank. If you can dish it out, you gotta be able to take it, right? His buddies set him up with a profile on a local dating site and took the additional liberty of contacting a couple hundred candidates on his behalf. After taking the better part of a week to gently let everyone down, he’s written back with interest to one woman who’s caught his attention with her sense of self-deprecating humor and warmth.
Kenna Wright is ready to throw in the towel in this dating site. She can barely remember what ever possessed her to even post a profile to begin with, not to mention contact anyone, especially the eyecatching military guy who shockingly actually writes back.
Caitlyn O’Leary’s story is a page turner, combining a sweet romance with fast-paced action and a suspense element that will keep you tied up in the best ways. Her Devoted Hero is a great read, and stands well alone. Looking forward to catching up with the rest of the series!
Her Devoted Hero by Caitlyn O’Leary is the second in her Black Dawn series.
Dexter Anthony Evans, aka Dex, is on the receiving end of a prank. If you can dish it out, you gotta be able to take it, right? His buddies set him up with a profile on a local dating site and took the additional liberty of contacting a couple hundred candidates on his behalf. After taking the better part of a week to gently let everyone down, he’s written back with interest to one woman who’s caught his attention with her sense of self-deprecating humor and warmth.
Kenna Wright is ready to throw in the towel in this dating site. She can barely remember what ever possessed her to even post a profile to begin with, not to mention contact anyone, especially the eyecatching military guy who shockingly actually writes back.
Caitlyn O’Leary’s story is a page turner, combining a sweet romance with fast-paced action and a suspense element that will keep you tied up in the best ways. Her Devoted Hero is a great read, and stands well alone. Looking forward to catching up with the rest of the series!
September 27, 2017
What a wonderful story.
Omg this is my favorite book of this author. She's had so many good ones but this is my absolute favorite. This was a wonderful heartbreaking beautiful book. This is Dex and Kenna's story. Kenna is a hardworking mom working two jobs just to raise her son. When she sends an email on a dating e she never expects to get a response. Dex couldn't believe that Clint did this to him put up a fake profile and sent out emails to over two hundred woman. One of those emails really gets his attention. I'm not gonna say much more on the story line cause I don't want to spoil it. Just no that this story is of two people who truly do complement each other. If two hearts we ever meant for each other it's Dex and Kenna. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this ride. It was terrible and scary and loving and wonderful. I hands down absolutely recommend this book. I loved these characters they are in my heart now and forever. Thank you so much for writing this book I can't wait to read the next. Well done. Well done.
Omg this is my favorite book of this author. She's had so many good ones but this is my absolute favorite. This was a wonderful heartbreaking beautiful book. This is Dex and Kenna's story. Kenna is a hardworking mom working two jobs just to raise her son. When she sends an email on a dating e she never expects to get a response. Dex couldn't believe that Clint did this to him put up a fake profile and sent out emails to over two hundred woman. One of those emails really gets his attention. I'm not gonna say much more on the story line cause I don't want to spoil it. Just no that this story is of two people who truly do complement each other. If two hearts we ever meant for each other it's Dex and Kenna. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this ride. It was terrible and scary and loving and wonderful. I hands down absolutely recommend this book. I loved these characters they are in my heart now and forever. Thank you so much for writing this book I can't wait to read the next. Well done. Well done.
December 30, 2017
"Kenna is a nurse full time and works part time for a retired celebrity as a personal secretary. She has a high school age son and has been supporting him on her own since her marriage broke up.
Dex is a Navy Seal computer specialist who has never been married. He and his friend on another Seal team member, Clint, are constantly pulling practical jokes on each other. Clint put Dex's profile up on the dating site CaliSingles.
Kenna had put hers up, but had no intention of really going out with anyone. Dex was sending everyone he had gotten an email from and telling them the truth, but after reading Kenna's snarky email as So Not Mary Poppins he was intrigued and decided to respond. After exchanging several emails and being thrown together by her conniving friend. Bad things began to happen. Women connected to Kenna and the site begin to die and Dex vows to protect her and her son.
This story was funny, hot and filled with intrigue. It is the first story I have read by Caitlyn O'Leary and definitely won't be the last!"
Dex is a Navy Seal computer specialist who has never been married. He and his friend on another Seal team member, Clint, are constantly pulling practical jokes on each other. Clint put Dex's profile up on the dating site CaliSingles.
Kenna had put hers up, but had no intention of really going out with anyone. Dex was sending everyone he had gotten an email from and telling them the truth, but after reading Kenna's snarky email as So Not Mary Poppins he was intrigued and decided to respond. After exchanging several emails and being thrown together by her conniving friend. Bad things began to happen. Women connected to Kenna and the site begin to die and Dex vows to protect her and her son.
This story was funny, hot and filled with intrigue. It is the first story I have read by Caitlyn O'Leary and definitely won't be the last!"
April 13, 2018
I truly wish I had come across this author long before now. Her way of creating characters who just so happen to not only be kick ass heroes (both men and women...and when I say women, I primarily mean Kenna!), but also have such human emotions as compassion, empathy, not to mention the capability to love and be loved...and not be portrayed as robots on autopilot.
I was impressed with the sharp and rapidly paced dialog, the banter was far above just witty, it was smart as well. Needless to say, the chemistry between Dex and Kenna was one of the first things that piqued my interest in the story, the humor that gave them their unconventional start was the jumping off point in which I became totally invested in not only them as a couple, but in the the premise of the story overall.
I not only now look forward to the upcoming books in the series, but now find that I must start reading her other series starting with Midnight Delta.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
I was impressed with the sharp and rapidly paced dialog, the banter was far above just witty, it was smart as well. Needless to say, the chemistry between Dex and Kenna was one of the first things that piqued my interest in the story, the humor that gave them their unconventional start was the jumping off point in which I became totally invested in not only them as a couple, but in the the premise of the story overall.
I not only now look forward to the upcoming books in the series, but now find that I must start reading her other series starting with Midnight Delta.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
October 4, 2017
Her devoted hero is a well-descriptive plot. The characters will make you laugh, bring out all type of emotions and feelings, as the story unfolds in front of you. I couldn't stop reading until I reach the end. You will love this story. It has a hero that helps a damsel in falling in love and trusting again. The chemistry between the characters starts slow is not rush. Kenna is naive and she doesn't want to deal with another relationship. Her friend Rosalie made a profile for her to start dating again. She receives varies emails and there is one that brings her attention is from 69Sailor boy. Then she ends up having second thoughts. Will Kenna give love second chance. Dex will become that hero she needs. I highly recommend this book. It deserves more than five stars. I volunteer review an advance copy of this book.
April 30, 2020
Actually 3.5 Stars
Navy SEAL Dex Evans isn't looking for love, but when his friend signs him up for an online dating service, he actually 'meets' someone interesting. Kenna Wright, nurse and single mom, calls herself "So Not Mary Poppins," but can't help to respond to Dex's warm, intelligent, funny messages. When they meet in person, sparks fly, but someone is after Kenna, and it might just take a Navy SEAL to protect her.
So this is a cute romance and an easy read. The characters are interesting, the plots are solid, and the some of the twists actually keep you guessing. However, the background characters are mostly generic, and the book is telling the same old story, but not in a truly new and compelling way.
Navy SEAL Dex Evans isn't looking for love, but when his friend signs him up for an online dating service, he actually 'meets' someone interesting. Kenna Wright, nurse and single mom, calls herself "So Not Mary Poppins," but can't help to respond to Dex's warm, intelligent, funny messages. When they meet in person, sparks fly, but someone is after Kenna, and it might just take a Navy SEAL to protect her.
So this is a cute romance and an easy read. The characters are interesting, the plots are solid, and the some of the twists actually keep you guessing. However, the background characters are mostly generic, and the book is telling the same old story, but not in a truly new and compelling way.
October 2, 2017
I think Dex is my next book boyfriend!!! I loved this story between Dex and Kenna. They meet through a dating site and he has a hard time convincing her he really wants to see her and get to know her. Kenna is a single mother of a teenage son and doesn't trust easily. Even though I really like Kenna's spirit, she made me want to reach through my kindle and smack her upside the head for resisting so long! But there is a killer on the loose and he has set his sights on Kenna. Will Dex and his team be able to save her? I'm not telling but just get the book and get comfortable for one awesome read! Oh, and when Austin grows up, I would love to see his story also!
November 10, 2017
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by this author. I really enjoyed reading this. The heroine is feisty (without being overly stubborn and annoying). The hero is a great guy who doesn’t back down from a challenge, and the way they meet is original. I also really enjoyed the mystery and suspense that goes throughout the book. I also really enjoyed the other characters that are in the book. Overall, this is a great book. Now, onto shop her backlist.
Reviewed by: Clare M.
Reviewed by: Clare M.
September 25, 2017
Oh My! Everyone needs a Dex in their life. This book was awesome, in the beginning Dex and Kenna had me laughing out loud. Then the suspense had me on the edge of my seat. Caitlyn O'Leary delivers it all in this book! Can't wait for the next book in the series.
August 18, 2018
L’histoire dans l’ensemble est mignonne mais probablement pas assez creusée. Le héros fait limite stalker au début, et s’incruste dans une enquête de police sans scrupule et avec plus de succès (soupir). Et un des personnages secondaires va jusqu’à acheter une société pour « aider » l’héroïne à trouver un amoureux, ce qui n’est pas du tout exagéré.
Avis complet https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Avis complet https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
January 9, 2018
This is the first book I've read by this author. I found the characters of Dex and Kenna likeable and was rooting for their HEA. I also enjoyed the plot, and though I figured out who the villain was before it was revealed, it didn't lessen my enjoyment of the suspense aspect. What I struggled with, however, were the numerous grammatical errors and even some plot inconsistencies. The book needs a thorough edit to tighten up the story and at least decrease the number of distracting errors. I found myself scratching my head when reading certain passages that simply made no sense; how these types of problems got past an editor or even beta readers is beyond me, but if this author has any of these people providing input, then something went wrong. I'm baffled because no one else has commented on these issues, so maybe the ARC copy I received is a previous version that shouldn't have gone out.
I received an ARC via NetGalley.
I received an ARC via NetGalley.
October 2, 2017
Wow, I read this book in one go. I loved the witty banter in the emails and conversations between the hero and heroine! It was a lovely counterbalance to the suspense part of the book. Did I mention I loved it? I loved the protectiveness of the SEAL hero, Dex, he was so forcefully tender and humourful that I instantly fell in love with him. Then I met Kenna, through her emails and conversations it appeared she was a strong-willed woman, full of spunk and a firecracker, a fierce mother-bear and I could understand there was no one better for her than Dex.
What is the story about Dex and Kenna?
Navy SEAL Dex Evans has a problem. His buddies think it’s a riot when they sign him up for a dating service behind his back. But who would have thought that with a profile like SailorBoy69 he’d snag a woman who was hysterically funny and gorgeous. Too bad she was also skittish as all hell. Dex fears that when she finds out his profile was a set-up, his happily ever after could sink to the bottom of the ocean.
Single mother, Kenna Wright was in way over her head. She’d spent years putting her child first while ignoring her needs. So, what was she thinking responding to the flirtatious email? Luckily for her, when she is stuck on a project with Dex, he’s even better in person than he’d been on his online profile. But can she believe this sexy SEAL when he says he’s looking for more than a fling?
When one of her co-workers is murdered and it looks like Kenna might be the next one in the killer’s crosshairs, Dex is determined to keep her safe. But with a target on her back, it’s really hard to keep a shield over her heart.
....... Hello SailorBoy69,
SNMP stands for So Not Mary Poppins. Take it to heart. My photo is me, but it’s pretty much a fake, since it took me two hours and twenty dollars worth of product to achieve the look. If we were to meet in person, I probably wouldn’t look anywhere close to this, so soak in this picture. Actually, don’t worry, we won’t meet, but I’ll get to that.
Here’s me in a nutshell. I live in the good part of town because I work my ass off handling my full-time job as a nurse, plus a part-time gig, that’s so my son can go to school in a decent school district. Being a good mother is the most important thing in my life, so I have no earthly idea why I’m responding to your profile since I don’t have time to date. Did I mention I have a kid, two jobs and really don’t look like this?
I like the fact that you’re serving our country. That’s part of the reason I’m reaching out to you. But the real reason I’m writing, is that I’m ninety-nine point nine percent sure you won’t respond, so this is a safe letter to write. I can feel good that I’ve finally put myself out there, without enduring the humiliation of a first date, which I’ll fail at, because I’ll never in a million years figure out how to reach this level of pretty again.
But in all seriousness, I wanted to take aim for a good guy, and you’re it. I like the fact you’re in the Navy. I like the fact, that you work with disenfranchised kids. I think you’re a nice man. Hell, I don’t even care if that’s not your real picture, because responsible men do it for me. Of course in my world they’re like mythical unicorns, they just don’t exist, at least not for me. But the dream of a responsible man makes my panties damp. See I can say this safely, cause you’re not going to respond, and I’m never going to meet you.
So, that’s my story SailorBoy69. Just know that out there in this big bad world a woman thinks you’re pretty exceptional, except for the atrocious cyber name you’ve given yourself of course. Now, if you have a thought of responding, for God’s sake don’t. Remember, it’s me. I have a kid, two jobs, and I’ll look like crap, and you’ll ruin the fantasy.
― Signed, So Not Mary Poppins
What is the story about Dex and Kenna?
Navy SEAL Dex Evans has a problem. His buddies think it’s a riot when they sign him up for a dating service behind his back. But who would have thought that with a profile like SailorBoy69 he’d snag a woman who was hysterically funny and gorgeous. Too bad she was also skittish as all hell. Dex fears that when she finds out his profile was a set-up, his happily ever after could sink to the bottom of the ocean.
Single mother, Kenna Wright was in way over her head. She’d spent years putting her child first while ignoring her needs. So, what was she thinking responding to the flirtatious email? Luckily for her, when she is stuck on a project with Dex, he’s even better in person than he’d been on his online profile. But can she believe this sexy SEAL when he says he’s looking for more than a fling?
When one of her co-workers is murdered and it looks like Kenna might be the next one in the killer’s crosshairs, Dex is determined to keep her safe. But with a target on her back, it’s really hard to keep a shield over her heart.
....... Hello SailorBoy69,
SNMP stands for So Not Mary Poppins. Take it to heart. My photo is me, but it’s pretty much a fake, since it took me two hours and twenty dollars worth of product to achieve the look. If we were to meet in person, I probably wouldn’t look anywhere close to this, so soak in this picture. Actually, don’t worry, we won’t meet, but I’ll get to that.
Here’s me in a nutshell. I live in the good part of town because I work my ass off handling my full-time job as a nurse, plus a part-time gig, that’s so my son can go to school in a decent school district. Being a good mother is the most important thing in my life, so I have no earthly idea why I’m responding to your profile since I don’t have time to date. Did I mention I have a kid, two jobs and really don’t look like this?
I like the fact that you’re serving our country. That’s part of the reason I’m reaching out to you. But the real reason I’m writing, is that I’m ninety-nine point nine percent sure you won’t respond, so this is a safe letter to write. I can feel good that I’ve finally put myself out there, without enduring the humiliation of a first date, which I’ll fail at, because I’ll never in a million years figure out how to reach this level of pretty again.
But in all seriousness, I wanted to take aim for a good guy, and you’re it. I like the fact you’re in the Navy. I like the fact, that you work with disenfranchised kids. I think you’re a nice man. Hell, I don’t even care if that’s not your real picture, because responsible men do it for me. Of course in my world they’re like mythical unicorns, they just don’t exist, at least not for me. But the dream of a responsible man makes my panties damp. See I can say this safely, cause you’re not going to respond, and I’m never going to meet you.
So, that’s my story SailorBoy69. Just know that out there in this big bad world a woman thinks you’re pretty exceptional, except for the atrocious cyber name you’ve given yourself of course. Now, if you have a thought of responding, for God’s sake don’t. Remember, it’s me. I have a kid, two jobs, and I’ll look like crap, and you’ll ruin the fantasy.
― Signed, So Not Mary Poppins
November 19, 2017
Title: Her Devoted Hero
Series: Black Dawn #2
Author: Caitlyn O’Leary
Genre: Military Romance
Release Date: September 25, 2017
BLURB: Navy SEAL Dex Evans has a problem. His buddies think it’s a riot when they sign him up for a dating service behind his back. But who would have thought that with a profile like SailorBoy69 he’d snag a woman who was hysterically funny and gorgeous. Too bad she was also skittish as all hell. Dex fears that when she finds out his profile was a set-up, his happily ever after could sink to the bottom of the ocean.
Single mother, Kenna Wright was in way over her head. She’d spent years putting her child first while ignoring her needs. So what was she thinking responding to the flirtatious email? Luckily for her, when she is stuck on a project with Dex, he’s even better in person than he’d been on his online profile. But can she believe this sexy SEAL when he says he’s looking for more than a fling?
When one of her co-workers is murdered and it looks like Kenna might be the next one in the killer’s crosshairs, Dex is determined to keep her safe. But with a target on her back, it’s really hard to keep a shield over her heart.
....... Hello SailorBoy69,
SNMP stands for So Not Mary Poppins. Take it to heart. My photo is me, but it’s pretty much a fake, since it took me two hours and twenty dollars worth of product to achieve the look. If we were to meet in person, I probably wouldn’t look anywhere close to this, so soak in this picture. Actually, don’t worry, we won’t meet, but I’ll get to that.
Here’s me in a nutshell. I live in the good part of town because I work my ass off handling my full-time job as a nurse, plus a part-time gig, that’s so my son can go to school in a decent school district. Being a good mother is the most important thing in my life, so I have no earthly idea why I’m responding to your profile since I don’t have time to date. Did I mention I have a kid, two jobs and really don’t look like this?
I like the fact that you’re serving our country. That’s part of the reason I’m reaching out to you. But the real reason I’m writing, is that I’m ninety-nine point nine percent sure you won’t respond, so this is a safe letter to write. I can feel good that I’ve finally put myself out there, without enduring the humiliation of a first date, which I’ll fail at, because I’ll never in a million years figure out how to reach this level of pretty again.
But in all seriousness, I wanted to take aim for a good guy, and you’re it. I like the fact you’re in the Navy. I like the fact, that you work with disenfranchised kids. I think you’re a nice man. Hell, I don’t even care if that’s not your real picture, because responsible men do it for me. Of course in my world they’re like mythical unicorns, they just don’t exist, at least not for me. But the dream of a responsible man makes my panties damp. See I can say this safely, cause you’re not going to respond, and I’m never going to meet you.
So, that’s my story SailorBoy69. Just know that out there in this big bad world a woman thinks you’re pretty exceptional, except for the atrocious cyber name you’ve given yourself of course. Now, if you have a thought of responding, for God’s sake don’t. Remember, it’s me. I have a kid, two jobs, and I’ll look like crap, and you’ll ruin the fantasy.
― Signed, So Not Mary Poppins
Favorite quotes: “What do I need to do, because Poppy, you need to know, I’m interested in the long game.”
Thoughts: What starts out as a joke, takes a twist when Dex becomes intrigued by SNMP…or So Not Mary Poppins. What starts as e-mail exchanges, quickly becomes ‘got to meet in person’ – SNMP, AKA Poppy, AKA Kenna – who couldn’t resist initial contact with Dex, honestly never expected to get his attention. She’s quick to yank down her profile, but that’s not even a challenge for Dex, computer expert for his SEAL team. He managed to arrange a ‘not so accidental, accidental meeting’, and the sparks fly. When danger starts to creep up around Kenna, her SEAL admirer turns into a godsend. This book is prefect for fans of romantic suspense!
Rating: B
Rating: B
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Series: Black Dawn #2
Author: Caitlyn O’Leary
Genre: Military Romance
Release Date: September 25, 2017
BLURB: Navy SEAL Dex Evans has a problem. His buddies think it’s a riot when they sign him up for a dating service behind his back. But who would have thought that with a profile like SailorBoy69 he’d snag a woman who was hysterically funny and gorgeous. Too bad she was also skittish as all hell. Dex fears that when she finds out his profile was a set-up, his happily ever after could sink to the bottom of the ocean.
Single mother, Kenna Wright was in way over her head. She’d spent years putting her child first while ignoring her needs. So what was she thinking responding to the flirtatious email? Luckily for her, when she is stuck on a project with Dex, he’s even better in person than he’d been on his online profile. But can she believe this sexy SEAL when he says he’s looking for more than a fling?
When one of her co-workers is murdered and it looks like Kenna might be the next one in the killer’s crosshairs, Dex is determined to keep her safe. But with a target on her back, it’s really hard to keep a shield over her heart.
....... Hello SailorBoy69,
SNMP stands for So Not Mary Poppins. Take it to heart. My photo is me, but it’s pretty much a fake, since it took me two hours and twenty dollars worth of product to achieve the look. If we were to meet in person, I probably wouldn’t look anywhere close to this, so soak in this picture. Actually, don’t worry, we won’t meet, but I’ll get to that.
Here’s me in a nutshell. I live in the good part of town because I work my ass off handling my full-time job as a nurse, plus a part-time gig, that’s so my son can go to school in a decent school district. Being a good mother is the most important thing in my life, so I have no earthly idea why I’m responding to your profile since I don’t have time to date. Did I mention I have a kid, two jobs and really don’t look like this?
I like the fact that you’re serving our country. That’s part of the reason I’m reaching out to you. But the real reason I’m writing, is that I’m ninety-nine point nine percent sure you won’t respond, so this is a safe letter to write. I can feel good that I’ve finally put myself out there, without enduring the humiliation of a first date, which I’ll fail at, because I’ll never in a million years figure out how to reach this level of pretty again.
But in all seriousness, I wanted to take aim for a good guy, and you’re it. I like the fact you’re in the Navy. I like the fact, that you work with disenfranchised kids. I think you’re a nice man. Hell, I don’t even care if that’s not your real picture, because responsible men do it for me. Of course in my world they’re like mythical unicorns, they just don’t exist, at least not for me. But the dream of a responsible man makes my panties damp. See I can say this safely, cause you’re not going to respond, and I’m never going to meet you.
So, that’s my story SailorBoy69. Just know that out there in this big bad world a woman thinks you’re pretty exceptional, except for the atrocious cyber name you’ve given yourself of course. Now, if you have a thought of responding, for God’s sake don’t. Remember, it’s me. I have a kid, two jobs, and I’ll look like crap, and you’ll ruin the fantasy.
― Signed, So Not Mary Poppins
Favorite quotes: “What do I need to do, because Poppy, you need to know, I’m interested in the long game.”
Thoughts: What starts out as a joke, takes a twist when Dex becomes intrigued by SNMP…or So Not Mary Poppins. What starts as e-mail exchanges, quickly becomes ‘got to meet in person’ – SNMP, AKA Poppy, AKA Kenna – who couldn’t resist initial contact with Dex, honestly never expected to get his attention. She’s quick to yank down her profile, but that’s not even a challenge for Dex, computer expert for his SEAL team. He managed to arrange a ‘not so accidental, accidental meeting’, and the sparks fly. When danger starts to creep up around Kenna, her SEAL admirer turns into a godsend. This book is prefect for fans of romantic suspense!
Rating: B
Rating: B
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
October 25, 2017
Wow! Get your smoking hot SEALS here! Her Devoted Hero (Black Dawn Book 2) by Caitlyn O’Leary is a fantastic must read! This is the first book that I have read by Ms. O’Leary, but far the last. Luckily, I have several of her books waiting on my TBR mountain, and they just got moved to the front of the list. Ms. O’Leary knocked it out of the park with Dex and Kenna’s story.
Dexter Anthony Evans, a hot, honorable Navy SEAL, and nurse and single mom Kenna Wright, meet quite by accident. In retaliation for a prank Dex and his SEAL team, Black Dawn, played on SEAL Team Midnight Delta, Dex not only finds himself signed up on an online dating site with the profile SailorBoy69 but with over 200 interested women to reply to. The gallant gentleman he is, Dex replies to each one politely explaining he was the victim of computer hacking. Except for the one message by So Not Mary Poppins, who turns out to be the very hesitant but quite funny, Kenna. Even though she asked him not to reply, fortunately Dex can’t resist. After a harrowing mission with his SEAL team, Dex returns with the intention of getting to know Kenna, but she quickly puts the brakes on any potential romantic entanglement. With the help of the wise and very witty Roasalie, Kenna’s friend and part-time employer, Kenna finds herself working on a surprise project with none other than Dex. After Kenna’s doctor friend is murdered Dex appoints himself Kenna’s personal protector, much to her objection, but with the approval of her teenage son, Austin, and her mother, Penny. What follows is a wonderful, touching romance with plenty of sexy heat. These two have no shortage of chemistry, but Kenna has been burned by love before and has no desire to repeat the experience. I truly enjoyed tagging along on their journey as Dex takes on the difficult task of proving to Kenna that not only is he worthy of taking a chance on, but she is also worthy of his devotion, while trying to keep her safe and work with the police to find her friend’s killer, who has now become Kenna’s stalker. Ms. O’Leary is a master at developing a soul deep connection between her characters while building a suspenseful and multi –layered mystery. This story kept me engaged from page one to the very end. I was sure I had figured out who the villain was about halfway through the book, but happily I was wrong.
This book has everything a reader could want in a romantic suspense or any good story, including a great secondary cast of characters. I truly enjoyed Dex and Kenna’s journey waiting for Kenna’s heart to catch up to her head, while Dex proved he could be just what she needed. And even though everyone else could see that before Kenna, Dex was ever patient and kind. The story culminates with an edge-of-your-seat ending that is not to be missed. And even though I haven’t read the first book in this series or any of the books in the previous Midnight Delta Series, of which many of the characters joined in to help Dex keep Kenna and her family safe, this story is easily read as a standalone and I had no trouble keeping up. Now I look forward to going back and reading the previous books. I loved and highly recommend Her Devoted Hero! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this title. Thanks Caitlyn O’Leary for an amazing journey!
Dexter Anthony Evans, a hot, honorable Navy SEAL, and nurse and single mom Kenna Wright, meet quite by accident. In retaliation for a prank Dex and his SEAL team, Black Dawn, played on SEAL Team Midnight Delta, Dex not only finds himself signed up on an online dating site with the profile SailorBoy69 but with over 200 interested women to reply to. The gallant gentleman he is, Dex replies to each one politely explaining he was the victim of computer hacking. Except for the one message by So Not Mary Poppins, who turns out to be the very hesitant but quite funny, Kenna. Even though she asked him not to reply, fortunately Dex can’t resist. After a harrowing mission with his SEAL team, Dex returns with the intention of getting to know Kenna, but she quickly puts the brakes on any potential romantic entanglement. With the help of the wise and very witty Roasalie, Kenna’s friend and part-time employer, Kenna finds herself working on a surprise project with none other than Dex. After Kenna’s doctor friend is murdered Dex appoints himself Kenna’s personal protector, much to her objection, but with the approval of her teenage son, Austin, and her mother, Penny. What follows is a wonderful, touching romance with plenty of sexy heat. These two have no shortage of chemistry, but Kenna has been burned by love before and has no desire to repeat the experience. I truly enjoyed tagging along on their journey as Dex takes on the difficult task of proving to Kenna that not only is he worthy of taking a chance on, but she is also worthy of his devotion, while trying to keep her safe and work with the police to find her friend’s killer, who has now become Kenna’s stalker. Ms. O’Leary is a master at developing a soul deep connection between her characters while building a suspenseful and multi –layered mystery. This story kept me engaged from page one to the very end. I was sure I had figured out who the villain was about halfway through the book, but happily I was wrong.
This book has everything a reader could want in a romantic suspense or any good story, including a great secondary cast of characters. I truly enjoyed Dex and Kenna’s journey waiting for Kenna’s heart to catch up to her head, while Dex proved he could be just what she needed. And even though everyone else could see that before Kenna, Dex was ever patient and kind. The story culminates with an edge-of-your-seat ending that is not to be missed. And even though I haven’t read the first book in this series or any of the books in the previous Midnight Delta Series, of which many of the characters joined in to help Dex keep Kenna and her family safe, this story is easily read as a standalone and I had no trouble keeping up. Now I look forward to going back and reading the previous books. I loved and highly recommend Her Devoted Hero! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this title. Thanks Caitlyn O’Leary for an amazing journey!
February 5, 2018
I received a copy of Her Devoted HERO from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The following opinions are mine and mine alone.
Dex is a Navy SEAL who never thought he'd be victim to a dating profile prank, but he was. After he and his teammates prank a fellow SEAL team, he's signed up for a dating site as SailorBoy69 by his counterpart on the second team. When he gets back from assignment, he's greeted with a flooded inbox from responses to 'winks' that SailorBoy69 had sent out. To every woman in the tricounty area. Being a gentleman, he replied to each and every single message, explaining the prank profile. When he reaches the final one, he's intrigued enough to ignore the prank and reply to Poppy (Kenna).
The self-deprecating single mom works two jobs, one a nurse and one a personal assistant to a silver screen actress. In her initial email, and all the ones to follow, she cuts herself down and tells SailorBoy69 all the reasons why he should just ignore her message. When Dex continues emailing her and informs Poppy that he's really and truly in it for the long haul, she breaks things off and deletes her account. That's when Dex gets a little stalkerish, he contacts her boss and pleads his case. Rosalie, being the romantic she is, pounces and sets things up. Almost immediately after Dex convinces Kenna to give him a real chance, Kenna picks up an extreme stalker. Dex forgets the whole 'budding relationship' status of his connection with Kenna and kind of takes over her whole existence after that.
I was happily surprised that I wasn't able to figure out the whodunnit factor, which is a certifiable feat for any writer that can stump me like Ms O'Leary did. And I totally understood Kenna's need to stress clean through her ordeal, I've actually broken into my grandmother's church in the middle of the night and cleaned every inch of the place because I was upset.
What put me off? I wasn't impressed with how easily Kenna capitulated to Dex's massive alpha complex after the initial rebellion. It had promise but Kenna seesaws between 'help me, I can't do a thing' and 'I don't need nobody' and I felt as if I'd develop whiplash if she continued the back and forth. I was disappointed that once they became intimate the story became secondary information. Kenna is asked early in the book for a favour from a friend and she completely forgets halfway through said favour because of boy-brain. And it paints her as a vapid woman the way she does a complete character remix for a guy. The author introduced a bevy of important characters and did nothing for their character building. We learn which of Dex's teammates drives what vehicle and they get a few lines and two references to past incidences. But other than that, they were nonexistent.
Overall, I'm going to give Her Devoted Hero 3 stars because I could see the story coming alive and I was held captive with suspense, but Kenna was just a hot mess and most of the characters lacked depth. And let's not talk about the whodunnit. I mean, points for stumping me, but come on!
Dex is a Navy SEAL who never thought he'd be victim to a dating profile prank, but he was. After he and his teammates prank a fellow SEAL team, he's signed up for a dating site as SailorBoy69 by his counterpart on the second team. When he gets back from assignment, he's greeted with a flooded inbox from responses to 'winks' that SailorBoy69 had sent out. To every woman in the tricounty area. Being a gentleman, he replied to each and every single message, explaining the prank profile. When he reaches the final one, he's intrigued enough to ignore the prank and reply to Poppy (Kenna).
The self-deprecating single mom works two jobs, one a nurse and one a personal assistant to a silver screen actress. In her initial email, and all the ones to follow, she cuts herself down and tells SailorBoy69 all the reasons why he should just ignore her message. When Dex continues emailing her and informs Poppy that he's really and truly in it for the long haul, she breaks things off and deletes her account. That's when Dex gets a little stalkerish, he contacts her boss and pleads his case. Rosalie, being the romantic she is, pounces and sets things up. Almost immediately after Dex convinces Kenna to give him a real chance, Kenna picks up an extreme stalker. Dex forgets the whole 'budding relationship' status of his connection with Kenna and kind of takes over her whole existence after that.
I was happily surprised that I wasn't able to figure out the whodunnit factor, which is a certifiable feat for any writer that can stump me like Ms O'Leary did. And I totally understood Kenna's need to stress clean through her ordeal, I've actually broken into my grandmother's church in the middle of the night and cleaned every inch of the place because I was upset.
What put me off? I wasn't impressed with how easily Kenna capitulated to Dex's massive alpha complex after the initial rebellion. It had promise but Kenna seesaws between 'help me, I can't do a thing' and 'I don't need nobody' and I felt as if I'd develop whiplash if she continued the back and forth. I was disappointed that once they became intimate the story became secondary information. Kenna is asked early in the book for a favour from a friend and she completely forgets halfway through said favour because of boy-brain. And it paints her as a vapid woman the way she does a complete character remix for a guy. The author introduced a bevy of important characters and did nothing for their character building. We learn which of Dex's teammates drives what vehicle and they get a few lines and two references to past incidences. But other than that, they were nonexistent.
Overall, I'm going to give Her Devoted Hero 3 stars because I could see the story coming alive and I was held captive with suspense, but Kenna was just a hot mess and most of the characters lacked depth. And let's not talk about the whodunnit. I mean, points for stumping me, but come on!
October 2, 2017
Her Devoted Hero
By: Caitlyn O’Leary
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Review by Kristie K
Sweet, sassy, and full of adventure and suspense, Caitlyn O’Leary just became a new favorite author…
I am a sucker for a good action and suspense filled romance, especially one that features a sexy seal, and a strong woman with plenty of humor and sass! Her Devoted Hero is the second installment to the Black Dawn series by Caitlyn O’Leary, and my first experience with this author. I can say this with absolute certainty…it will definitely NOT be my last! I plan to stalk Ms. O’Leary and every book she writes…past, present, and future! Kenna Wright is a single mother with enough snark and sass to put a fire under anyone, but a distinct lack of self-esteem. After years of being on a singles site, she finally responds to one of the many suitors to contact her, only to tell him he shouldn’t respond! When this mystery man turns out to be a super sexy Navy Seal, with more than a passing fancy brewing for the sassy nurse, Kenna tries her best to derail the tenacious sailor. When a close friend turns up dead, Kenna finds herself in danger, and under the protection of her sexy Seal. Dex Evans is the victim of a prank…when a rival Seal team sets up a profile for him on a singles site, Dex finds himself swimming in emails from women…but none of them even come close to catching his attention…except one. A fun and sassy message from Kenna has him working to earn her trust, and eventually, her heart. When Kenna finds herself in danger, Dex makes it his personal mission to keep her and her family safe. The target of a madman, Kenna has to place her fate and the safety of her son in the hands of the man she’s falling for, and pray that he can save them all.
“Honey, that wasn’t reluctance. That was me trying to figure out where to start. You’re a banquet for the senses. I was overwhelmed.” - Kenna
With lines like that, it’s easy to see why I fell head over heels in LOVE with these characters! The storyline wasn’t totally unique, but the execution of it was completely spot-on and one of the best new reads I’ve experienced. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about this book, from the cover art to the blurb. The story contained action, suspense, adventure, and plenty of sexual tension. The sass and humor made it even more enjoyable, and had me laughing out loud more than once. Rather than taking away from the action and suspense, it added to the experience and made this one of my favorite new authors this year. Add to that her awesome talent for description and writing with heart, and she is at the top of my list. I will definitely be going back and reading the previous installment, as well as other series from Ms. O’Leary. She is Da’Bomb!
Kristie K
By: Caitlyn O’Leary
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Review by Kristie K
Sweet, sassy, and full of adventure and suspense, Caitlyn O’Leary just became a new favorite author…
I am a sucker for a good action and suspense filled romance, especially one that features a sexy seal, and a strong woman with plenty of humor and sass! Her Devoted Hero is the second installment to the Black Dawn series by Caitlyn O’Leary, and my first experience with this author. I can say this with absolute certainty…it will definitely NOT be my last! I plan to stalk Ms. O’Leary and every book she writes…past, present, and future! Kenna Wright is a single mother with enough snark and sass to put a fire under anyone, but a distinct lack of self-esteem. After years of being on a singles site, she finally responds to one of the many suitors to contact her, only to tell him he shouldn’t respond! When this mystery man turns out to be a super sexy Navy Seal, with more than a passing fancy brewing for the sassy nurse, Kenna tries her best to derail the tenacious sailor. When a close friend turns up dead, Kenna finds herself in danger, and under the protection of her sexy Seal. Dex Evans is the victim of a prank…when a rival Seal team sets up a profile for him on a singles site, Dex finds himself swimming in emails from women…but none of them even come close to catching his attention…except one. A fun and sassy message from Kenna has him working to earn her trust, and eventually, her heart. When Kenna finds herself in danger, Dex makes it his personal mission to keep her and her family safe. The target of a madman, Kenna has to place her fate and the safety of her son in the hands of the man she’s falling for, and pray that he can save them all.
“Honey, that wasn’t reluctance. That was me trying to figure out where to start. You’re a banquet for the senses. I was overwhelmed.” - Kenna
With lines like that, it’s easy to see why I fell head over heels in LOVE with these characters! The storyline wasn’t totally unique, but the execution of it was completely spot-on and one of the best new reads I’ve experienced. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about this book, from the cover art to the blurb. The story contained action, suspense, adventure, and plenty of sexual tension. The sass and humor made it even more enjoyable, and had me laughing out loud more than once. Rather than taking away from the action and suspense, it added to the experience and made this one of my favorite new authors this year. Add to that her awesome talent for description and writing with heart, and she is at the top of my list. I will definitely be going back and reading the previous installment, as well as other series from Ms. O’Leary. She is Da’Bomb!
Kristie K
October 10, 2017
Her Devoted Hero by Caitlyn O’Leary is the type of story you must be prepared to read in one sitting, as stopping part way through will not be possible!
Dex is the ultimate nurturer and protector. Struggling with his own personal demons, he has immersed himself in his chosen career as a Navy SEAL and a Big Brother program that gives back to those in need. A gentleman with a heart of gold, Dex is every woman’s fantasy of the perfect life partner.
Kenna is a tower of strength. A woman wronged early in life, she stands on her own and works hard for a better life for the one she loves. But emotional baggage is a bitch, so Kenna has convinced herself that no man is worth relying on, and her strategically build walls will protect her from repeating the past.
As an avid reader of Caitlyn O’Leary’s books, I have found myself happily dwelling in the exciting world created for the brave men of the SEAL teams, and the courageous women who love them unconditionally, and with a passion that never wanes. And though I have many favourites, Dex and Kenna have certainly secured a special place in my heart.
So what more can I say about her Devoted Hero? Well this book has everything; an Alpha hero with strong moral values, irresistible charm and a genuine tenderness that never quits, a heroine with determination, attitude and enough sass to make you continually chuckle, and a storyline with laughter, danger, suspense and grit. So of all the incredible stories and many topics tackled by Ms O’Leary in the past, I’m compelled to admit that Her Devoted Hero is definitely one of my absolute favourites and that Dex, Kenna and the entire cast of this incredible book were captivating.
Thank you Ms O’Leary for reminding yet again just how exceptional your writing is and the joy I get out of each and every book.
Dex is the ultimate nurturer and protector. Struggling with his own personal demons, he has immersed himself in his chosen career as a Navy SEAL and a Big Brother program that gives back to those in need. A gentleman with a heart of gold, Dex is every woman’s fantasy of the perfect life partner.
Kenna is a tower of strength. A woman wronged early in life, she stands on her own and works hard for a better life for the one she loves. But emotional baggage is a bitch, so Kenna has convinced herself that no man is worth relying on, and her strategically build walls will protect her from repeating the past.
As an avid reader of Caitlyn O’Leary’s books, I have found myself happily dwelling in the exciting world created for the brave men of the SEAL teams, and the courageous women who love them unconditionally, and with a passion that never wanes. And though I have many favourites, Dex and Kenna have certainly secured a special place in my heart.
So what more can I say about her Devoted Hero? Well this book has everything; an Alpha hero with strong moral values, irresistible charm and a genuine tenderness that never quits, a heroine with determination, attitude and enough sass to make you continually chuckle, and a storyline with laughter, danger, suspense and grit. So of all the incredible stories and many topics tackled by Ms O’Leary in the past, I’m compelled to admit that Her Devoted Hero is definitely one of my absolute favourites and that Dex, Kenna and the entire cast of this incredible book were captivating.
Thank you Ms O’Leary for reminding yet again just how exceptional your writing is and the joy I get out of each and every book.
October 9, 2017
Great Story!
Once again I am blown away by a fabulous story. Dex has his hands full for sure! Kenna is no shrinking violet and has no problem speaking her mind. She is also very perceptive and can tell what Dex is thinking which has him intrigued by her sweet personality and depth of emotions.
Meeting on a dating website is becoming the normal way to meet potential mates now days. You have the advantage of anonymity as well as the ability to peruse multiple people at the same time. It also gives you the courage to comment about things that you would normally save for the second or third date.
Kenna’s profile was pretty sassy and her picture was the result of a generous amount of primping in front of a mirror. Anyway, Dex thought she was fascinating. He loved her picture and her comical description about herself. She thought Dex, being a Navy SEAL, was an honorable man and also very hot! They correspond back and forth despite Kenna’s determination to tell him that she is not interested in any kind of relationship.
I loved how this story evolves. Dex is a true gentleman. He is also a warrior and a fierce protector. He gets totally involved when Kenna finds that she has a stalker. The mystery and suspense keep you glued to the story. It has well crafted twists and turns that I didn’t expect. It also has hot, sexy romance which further keeps you hooked. This story has some very sweet romance and lessons on family values, which I consider important, that added to the intrigue of the plot. I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. This is another really great love story by an author that knows how to tell them. I loved it!
Once again I am blown away by a fabulous story. Dex has his hands full for sure! Kenna is no shrinking violet and has no problem speaking her mind. She is also very perceptive and can tell what Dex is thinking which has him intrigued by her sweet personality and depth of emotions.
Meeting on a dating website is becoming the normal way to meet potential mates now days. You have the advantage of anonymity as well as the ability to peruse multiple people at the same time. It also gives you the courage to comment about things that you would normally save for the second or third date.
Kenna’s profile was pretty sassy and her picture was the result of a generous amount of primping in front of a mirror. Anyway, Dex thought she was fascinating. He loved her picture and her comical description about herself. She thought Dex, being a Navy SEAL, was an honorable man and also very hot! They correspond back and forth despite Kenna’s determination to tell him that she is not interested in any kind of relationship.
I loved how this story evolves. Dex is a true gentleman. He is also a warrior and a fierce protector. He gets totally involved when Kenna finds that she has a stalker. The mystery and suspense keep you glued to the story. It has well crafted twists and turns that I didn’t expect. It also has hot, sexy romance which further keeps you hooked. This story has some very sweet romance and lessons on family values, which I consider important, that added to the intrigue of the plot. I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. This is another really great love story by an author that knows how to tell them. I loved it!
September 22, 2017
Question to dating males: Top three things you look for in a woman:
Answer: Snark?
Who would think a hot sexy SEAL would choose one of two hundred women because she was snarky in a cute way? When he finally got to Kenna's profile he decided he didn't have to kill his teammates for signing him up to a dating site.
I loved every page of this story. Dex is a hot SEAL yet while enjoying plenty of female attention, he's more interested in the lives of his buddies who have found women to share their lives. He wants that. Could funny, independent, single protective mom who works too much be that for him? She doesn't want to date. Challenge. SEALS live for them. He had to meet her. It took time and effort and ....well, I'll just say she didn't agree to a date.
The characters are all interesting and worthy of their own stories. Friends, family, co-workers, all love and respect both Dex and Kenna. They both do more. More than the basics of their jobs. More for their family. More for the community. More for their friends. Reading about them finding time for each other is fun, sweet, and hot.
When a madman threatens her, the whole team steps in to help the authorities. (Not that they cops agree to the assistance) This is a madman easy to hate. Will he end their chance for a life together?
Will the stress from danger be too much, if she lives through it?
I recommend this to fans and new readers who are guaranteed to become fans.
I voluntarily reviewed this advanced reader copy and I have not been compensated in any way.
Answer: Snark?
Who would think a hot sexy SEAL would choose one of two hundred women because she was snarky in a cute way? When he finally got to Kenna's profile he decided he didn't have to kill his teammates for signing him up to a dating site.
I loved every page of this story. Dex is a hot SEAL yet while enjoying plenty of female attention, he's more interested in the lives of his buddies who have found women to share their lives. He wants that. Could funny, independent, single protective mom who works too much be that for him? She doesn't want to date. Challenge. SEALS live for them. He had to meet her. It took time and effort and ....well, I'll just say she didn't agree to a date.
The characters are all interesting and worthy of their own stories. Friends, family, co-workers, all love and respect both Dex and Kenna. They both do more. More than the basics of their jobs. More for their family. More for the community. More for their friends. Reading about them finding time for each other is fun, sweet, and hot.
When a madman threatens her, the whole team steps in to help the authorities. (Not that they cops agree to the assistance) This is a madman easy to hate. Will he end their chance for a life together?
Will the stress from danger be too much, if she lives through it?
I recommend this to fans and new readers who are guaranteed to become fans.
I voluntarily reviewed this advanced reader copy and I have not been compensated in any way.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews