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After a terrible battle, Navy SEAL Ocean “Blue” Beckett is captured and tortured by the enemy. Battle fatigued with PTSD, Blue is rotated out of his unit to teach at Panama City, Florida. He’s supposed to get his head together, see a therapist about his condition and work his way back to active duty. But he’s struggling every day to keep his thoughts from overrunning his common sense, and his sanity is tested by Navy diver, Petty Officer Charlotte Coventry. She seems to see right into his soul, but if he steps over the line, he’s not only risking his career, but his heart.
Charlie sees Blue’s pain and she can’t help but respond. She’s been in the same position as he is and her own demons still haunt her. So, it seems like a boneheaded move for her to risk her dream of becoming a master diver, a coveted position, for an affair with her off-limits instructor. But even as the forbidden relationship tempts her, Blue shows her exactly the kind of hero he is and crossing the line becomes almost impossible. As it dawns on her bit by bit, she discovers how to heal him and in the process, maybe he could save her, too. Will her heart rule her head? While they work to overcome their trauma, Blue’s past comes back to haunt him in a violent way, putting Charlie’s life in danger. After all that they have to overcome, will this tear them apart?
Charlie sees Blue’s pain and she can’t help but respond. She’s been in the same position as he is and her own demons still haunt her. So, it seems like a boneheaded move for her to risk her dream of becoming a master diver, a coveted position, for an affair with her off-limits instructor. But even as the forbidden relationship tempts her, Blue shows her exactly the kind of hero he is and crossing the line becomes almost impossible. As it dawns on her bit by bit, she discovers how to heal him and in the process, maybe he could save her, too. Will her heart rule her head? While they work to overcome their trauma, Blue’s past comes back to haunt him in a violent way, putting Charlie’s life in danger. After all that they have to overcome, will this tear them apart?
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2018
About the author
Zoe Dawson
112 books2,869 followersNewsletter sign up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Zoe Dawson, the author of 40+ books had always dreamed of becoming a full-time romance writer. Her other passions include traveling the world, owning a beach house (she believes she was a mermaid in another life), and seeing her books in movies. When she’s not writing, she’s painting or killing virtual MMORPG monsters in World of Warcraft. She lives in North Carolina with her two grown children and one small, furry gray cat.
Zoe Dawson, the author of 40+ books had always dreamed of becoming a full-time romance writer. Her other passions include traveling the world, owning a beach house (she believes she was a mermaid in another life), and seeing her books in movies. When she’s not writing, she’s painting or killing virtual MMORPG monsters in World of Warcraft. She lives in North Carolina with her two grown children and one small, furry gray cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 1, 2018
5 - "You give me hope..." Stars!
We return to Zoe Dawson’s SEAL Team Alpha series, with book five giving us Ocean 'Blue' Beckett’s story. If you haven’t read the previous books in this series, I urge you to do so, because it will give added depth to the story, that the author gave this troubled and broken man.
He had upheld his honor… even if it was in shreds.
Take heed of the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book, because the author didn’t pull her punches especially whilst Blue is still being held captive in Kirikhanistan his treatment is horrific, heart breaking and pretty graphically described.
He hurt… from the inside out.
Having read the previous books in the series, and knowing of his situation I was prepared for it, but it still upset me to read of the experiences he went through, being the Teams medic and a master of Zen, you see just how much his experience strips everything he once held dear away from him. And how meeting Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Coventry, and exploring their connection gave him the tools to start rebuilding himself one brick at a time.
I don’t want to say too much else about the direction of the story, because although it is pretty harsh in places, a little painful to read at points, and a whole emotional rollercoaster to experience alongside Blue and Charlie, it is definitely a journey best travelled in the dark.
He was a ruined angel crowned with golden brown hair and eyes the color of the ocean…
Charlie has her own demons to work through as well, and the balance of her working through her issues, whilst also giving Blue the freedom to release some of the dark ghosts he holds onto is just really well pitched. You get POVs from some of the other Alpha Team members as to how Blue’s experience has affected them as well as the Alpha Team dynamic in general, after everything that has gone on.
"I didn’t build this team to have it destroyed by some bitch and her sick husband in that godforsaken place… We’re stronger than that."
Zoe delivered in spades this time, I commend her imagination and mettle, because reading some of this book was hard enough, I cannot imagine how painful it must have been to try and write it.
"They took so much from me… I don’t know what I have left."
This series just goes from strength to strength, and with Scarecrow up next, I cannot wait to see what direction Zoe takes his story in.
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review in exchange.
We return to Zoe Dawson’s SEAL Team Alpha series, with book five giving us Ocean 'Blue' Beckett’s story. If you haven’t read the previous books in this series, I urge you to do so, because it will give added depth to the story, that the author gave this troubled and broken man.
He had upheld his honor… even if it was in shreds.
Take heed of the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book, because the author didn’t pull her punches especially whilst Blue is still being held captive in Kirikhanistan his treatment is horrific, heart breaking and pretty graphically described.
He hurt… from the inside out.
Having read the previous books in the series, and knowing of his situation I was prepared for it, but it still upset me to read of the experiences he went through, being the Teams medic and a master of Zen, you see just how much his experience strips everything he once held dear away from him. And how meeting Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Coventry, and exploring their connection gave him the tools to start rebuilding himself one brick at a time.
I don’t want to say too much else about the direction of the story, because although it is pretty harsh in places, a little painful to read at points, and a whole emotional rollercoaster to experience alongside Blue and Charlie, it is definitely a journey best travelled in the dark.
He was a ruined angel crowned with golden brown hair and eyes the color of the ocean…
Charlie has her own demons to work through as well, and the balance of her working through her issues, whilst also giving Blue the freedom to release some of the dark ghosts he holds onto is just really well pitched. You get POVs from some of the other Alpha Team members as to how Blue’s experience has affected them as well as the Alpha Team dynamic in general, after everything that has gone on.
"I didn’t build this team to have it destroyed by some bitch and her sick husband in that godforsaken place… We’re stronger than that."
Zoe delivered in spades this time, I commend her imagination and mettle, because reading some of this book was hard enough, I cannot imagine how painful it must have been to try and write it.
"They took so much from me… I don’t know what I have left."
This series just goes from strength to strength, and with Scarecrow up next, I cannot wait to see what direction Zoe takes his story in.
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review in exchange.
April 27, 2018
I am so in love with Blue and Charlie's story. I knew Blue's story was going to be a powerful one for me based on what was going on at the end of Tank's books. This series can be read as standalones, but I do think you will enjoy it more if you read it from the beginning. The author gives details about what's coming in the next book.
Blue has gone through an unimaginable situation that has left him scarred on the inside and outside. He can't seem to get back to the carefree man he was before, but Charlie grounds him in a way he can't understand. As these two get closer and the trust is developed, they both find so much more than they even knew they were looking for. This was an emotional read and at times I had to wrap my head around all that Blue had endured. This is a story of a soldier who was captive and endured torture, so if that's a trigger, please be warned. I loved how the author told the story and was blown away at the chemistry between Charlie and Blue and how he came back from something so awful.
From the very first book in this series, I've loved it. I can't get enough of this team and when it's time to say goodbye, I won't want to. This is a great series that is action packed and awesome stories! Every story gets better, but Blue is my favorite. Can't wait for the next one!
Blue has gone through an unimaginable situation that has left him scarred on the inside and outside. He can't seem to get back to the carefree man he was before, but Charlie grounds him in a way he can't understand. As these two get closer and the trust is developed, they both find so much more than they even knew they were looking for. This was an emotional read and at times I had to wrap my head around all that Blue had endured. This is a story of a soldier who was captive and endured torture, so if that's a trigger, please be warned. I loved how the author told the story and was blown away at the chemistry between Charlie and Blue and how he came back from something so awful.
From the very first book in this series, I've loved it. I can't get enough of this team and when it's time to say goodbye, I won't want to. This is a great series that is action packed and awesome stories! Every story gets better, but Blue is my favorite. Can't wait for the next one!
August 19, 2023
I'll start off by saying that this book is not for the faint of heart. There is content that I'm sure will be triggers for some readers. They are spelled out at the beginning of the book, so you can decide for yourself if you want to read on.
But what a deeply emotional read. After surviving so much at the hands of his captors, Blue (Ocean Beckett) is finally rescued and goes home. But healing is a tough, tough battle, especially mentally after being broken in a horrible way through torture. But it felt like an honor to discover how Blue (and the other members of his SEAL team) deal with all that has happened.
Charlie (Charlotte) Coventry has suffered horrendously, too. And when these two sailors meet, I wasn't sure she was going to be strong enough to be his match. But Blue and Charlie heal each other in steamy, emotional, unconventional ways. There's a threat of danger running through the book, too, making it imperative in Blue's mind that he needs to get healthy enough to get back to his SEAL team so that they can help him protect her.
I suspected the twist at the end, but didn't mind one bit because I was so invested in these characters and their story.
I'm also enjoying how we get to know the hero's teammates throughout this series as well. Both giving us small scenes from the next hero's pov, as well as revisiting the community of characters who have already had their own stories.
But what a deeply emotional read. After surviving so much at the hands of his captors, Blue (Ocean Beckett) is finally rescued and goes home. But healing is a tough, tough battle, especially mentally after being broken in a horrible way through torture. But it felt like an honor to discover how Blue (and the other members of his SEAL team) deal with all that has happened.
Charlie (Charlotte) Coventry has suffered horrendously, too. And when these two sailors meet, I wasn't sure she was going to be strong enough to be his match. But Blue and Charlie heal each other in steamy, emotional, unconventional ways. There's a threat of danger running through the book, too, making it imperative in Blue's mind that he needs to get healthy enough to get back to his SEAL team so that they can help him protect her.
I suspected the twist at the end, but didn't mind one bit because I was so invested in these characters and their story.
I'm also enjoying how we get to know the hero's teammates throughout this series as well. Both giving us small scenes from the next hero's pov, as well as revisiting the community of characters who have already had their own stories.
May 7, 2018
Blue by Zoe Dawson
SEAL Team Alpha Series Book Five
Ocean “Blue” Beckett has been taken prisoner by a sadistic couple. Even if his team can rescue him before they kill him—he's already been through so much that he'll never be the same.
Charlotte “Charlie” Coventry finds that she and Blue have much in common. Their pain. Their need for healing. But she's not a stay forever kind of gal, she only wants to help heal him, and then go her own way.
I liked the story line, although it was pretty tough reading the beginning where he's a prisoner. I wasn't real fond of Charlie's “hobby” as far as healing went. Even so, it is well-written and brought strong emotions out for Blue.
**Strong sexual content and language
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Merged review:
Blue by Zoe Dawson
SEAL Team Alpha Series Book Five
Ocean “Blue” Beckett has been taken prisoner by a sadistic couple. Even if his team can rescue him before they kill him—he's already been through so much that he'll never be the same.
Charlotte “Charlie” Coventry finds that she and Blue have much in common. Their pain. Their need for healing. But she's not a stay forever kind of gal, she only wants to help heal him, and then go her own way.
I liked the story line, although it was pretty tough reading the beginning where he's a prisoner. I wasn't real fond of Charlie's “hobby” as far as healing went. Even so, it is well-written and brought strong emotions out for Blue.
**Strong sexual content and language
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
SEAL Team Alpha Series Book Five
Ocean “Blue” Beckett has been taken prisoner by a sadistic couple. Even if his team can rescue him before they kill him—he's already been through so much that he'll never be the same.
Charlotte “Charlie” Coventry finds that she and Blue have much in common. Their pain. Their need for healing. But she's not a stay forever kind of gal, she only wants to help heal him, and then go her own way.
I liked the story line, although it was pretty tough reading the beginning where he's a prisoner. I wasn't real fond of Charlie's “hobby” as far as healing went. Even so, it is well-written and brought strong emotions out for Blue.
**Strong sexual content and language
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Merged review:
Blue by Zoe Dawson
SEAL Team Alpha Series Book Five
Ocean “Blue” Beckett has been taken prisoner by a sadistic couple. Even if his team can rescue him before they kill him—he's already been through so much that he'll never be the same.
Charlotte “Charlie” Coventry finds that she and Blue have much in common. Their pain. Their need for healing. But she's not a stay forever kind of gal, she only wants to help heal him, and then go her own way.
I liked the story line, although it was pretty tough reading the beginning where he's a prisoner. I wasn't real fond of Charlie's “hobby” as far as healing went. Even so, it is well-written and brought strong emotions out for Blue.
**Strong sexual content and language
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
March 12, 2019
Book 5 of the series.
If you want a recap of what the book is about, please read above the reviews.
This book starts up where the last one ends due to the last book having a bit about this hero in it mixed with the other hero.
The plot takes a spin off of an old story with an innocent woman helps a solider in enemy territory. However, what we soon learn is the woman and the solider end up falling in love. Unfortunately, its n to to be and before long, our hero is recaptured and his first love is now dead. This is a great way to throw a loop in the whole story which is traditional.
The hero you really get involved with and feel for. The heroine, I didn't get that type of connection to her. I felt her background story line slowed the whole thing down and wasn't very interesting. I did find the interactions with the hero and heroine exciting, but at times this even felt bogged down.
The hero was a different type of character from the start, but the heroine's character just didn't connect with me. I thought the bondage scenes were over the top as well. I think this might have been what helped bog the story from progressing as smoothly. I felt she was trying to channel the whole 50 Shades type of book in this one. For me it was a fail.
I hope the next book in the series gets back at what this author is good at - telling us a story rather than trying to channel EL James.
If you want a recap of what the book is about, please read above the reviews.
This book starts up where the last one ends due to the last book having a bit about this hero in it mixed with the other hero.
The plot takes a spin off of an old story with an innocent woman helps a solider in enemy territory. However, what we soon learn is the woman and the solider end up falling in love. Unfortunately, its n to to be and before long, our hero is recaptured and his first love is now dead. This is a great way to throw a loop in the whole story which is traditional.
The hero you really get involved with and feel for. The heroine, I didn't get that type of connection to her. I felt her background story line slowed the whole thing down and wasn't very interesting. I did find the interactions with the hero and heroine exciting, but at times this even felt bogged down.
The hero was a different type of character from the start, but the heroine's character just didn't connect with me. I thought the bondage scenes were over the top as well. I think this might have been what helped bog the story from progressing as smoothly. I felt she was trying to channel the whole 50 Shades type of book in this one. For me it was a fail.
I hope the next book in the series gets back at what this author is good at - telling us a story rather than trying to channel EL James.
April 28, 2018
If you are looking for a sweet romance, this is not the book for you. But if you are looking for a book that will grab your attention for the first page till the last, this one is IT! Emotions will be felt deeply and at times you will want to walk into the pages of the book to give the main characters a hug .
The story centers around Navy SEAL Ocean/Blue Beckett and Charlotte/Charlie Coventry.
Blue was tortured beyond the worse nightmare you can imagine. Though he was finally rescued, he is now a shell of himself. Living the nightmares, tortures and the dehumanization he endured.
Charlie, a Petty Officer, has also had to overcome personal losses that still haunt her.
After a shaky start, a forbidden relationship begins between these two. The relationship is one that starts to heal Blue and even Charlie.
But life throws them a curveball. Will they be able to find their HEA or will the past interfere ?
In addition to a very well written story, the author reminds us that the brave men and women serving our country, frequently return not only with physical but also with psychological wounds. PTSD is a serious issue and we as a nation , need to assist the returning troops not only in healing but in returning to living a full life.
This is an ARC copy. The opinions are solely my own.
The story centers around Navy SEAL Ocean/Blue Beckett and Charlotte/Charlie Coventry.
Blue was tortured beyond the worse nightmare you can imagine. Though he was finally rescued, he is now a shell of himself. Living the nightmares, tortures and the dehumanization he endured.
Charlie, a Petty Officer, has also had to overcome personal losses that still haunt her.
After a shaky start, a forbidden relationship begins between these two. The relationship is one that starts to heal Blue and even Charlie.
But life throws them a curveball. Will they be able to find their HEA or will the past interfere ?
In addition to a very well written story, the author reminds us that the brave men and women serving our country, frequently return not only with physical but also with psychological wounds. PTSD is a serious issue and we as a nation , need to assist the returning troops not only in healing but in returning to living a full life.
This is an ARC copy. The opinions are solely my own.
February 20, 2023
Alert! This book is filled with explicit torture scenes. After that descriptions of Japanese rope sexual torture.
NOT for the faint of heart.
I loved her other books in the series so far but this one is quite disturbing n
NOT for the faint of heart.
I loved her other books in the series so far but this one is quite disturbing n
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2021
bondage and a lot of triggers. Not sexy at all. Not an enjoyable read.
DNF
DNF
February 12, 2026
I'm unsure where this series is going. Each book has gotten a little darker. Now at 38%, this one heads directly to BSDM Land, courtesy of 50 Shades of Grey.
This doesn't seem like the way to "heal" from PTSD. Or at least, I've never heard of that, and I do have more than a passing familiarity with that scene.
Also, I was not interested in the amount of "realism" that came into this character's story. Extreme torture, $exual assault, genital mutilation...definitely not my thing. Sure, I could skip this book. But my question remains--where is this series going?
The FMC is a confusing mess of traits. She's terrified of deep ocean? So she joins the Navy? And she decides BDSM is the answer because some guy she admired tied her up using a special rope tying method? I do know this technique is used in some intimate settings, but I've never heard of it being used as a form of therapy. It's about total trust, as is the basis of BDSM. Again, WTF? Other than that, she seems to spend a good bit of time trying to manipulate the MMC into doing things that directly violate documented relationship rules and risk his career (hers too, but she doesn't at all seem to care). I don't get her character at all. Oh yeah, and she had $ex with the MMC the first time when he was recovering from a staggering drunk as well as a terrible nightmare, and she knew he was heavily traumatized. Oh yeah, she's a real peach.
I do understand shared trauma can attract people to one another, but this sounds more like the two of them seeking more damage.
As much as I believe in the freedom for people to be intimate with one another, I have truly come to hate that craptastic 50 Shades of Grey series. I tried to read it, but it was truly terribly written. I never saw so many exclamation points outside of Victorian novels. But it made boatload of money, so most authors jumped on the wagon. And honestly, since that author wasn't really that knowledgeable about BDSM, all the copy cats after her just made things worse. And Sweet Baby Jesus in a purple diaper, how many men do you think that weren't horrifyingly rich would ever get away with that behavior? There's a reason you never read a book featuring an assistant manager at a Stop n Go as the Dom. Jail.
Anyhoo.
I'm not sure I'll finish this, or eve the series.
This doesn't seem like the way to "heal" from PTSD. Or at least, I've never heard of that, and I do have more than a passing familiarity with that scene.
Also, I was not interested in the amount of "realism" that came into this character's story. Extreme torture, $exual assault, genital mutilation...definitely not my thing. Sure, I could skip this book. But my question remains--where is this series going?
The FMC is a confusing mess of traits. She's terrified of deep ocean? So she joins the Navy? And she decides BDSM is the answer because some guy she admired tied her up using a special rope tying method? I do know this technique is used in some intimate settings, but I've never heard of it being used as a form of therapy. It's about total trust, as is the basis of BDSM. Again, WTF? Other than that, she seems to spend a good bit of time trying to manipulate the MMC into doing things that directly violate documented relationship rules and risk his career (hers too, but she doesn't at all seem to care). I don't get her character at all. Oh yeah, and she had $ex with the MMC the first time when he was recovering from a staggering drunk as well as a terrible nightmare, and she knew he was heavily traumatized. Oh yeah, she's a real peach.
I do understand shared trauma can attract people to one another, but this sounds more like the two of them seeking more damage.
As much as I believe in the freedom for people to be intimate with one another, I have truly come to hate that craptastic 50 Shades of Grey series. I tried to read it, but it was truly terribly written. I never saw so many exclamation points outside of Victorian novels. But it made boatload of money, so most authors jumped on the wagon. And honestly, since that author wasn't really that knowledgeable about BDSM, all the copy cats after her just made things worse. And Sweet Baby Jesus in a purple diaper, how many men do you think that weren't horrifyingly rich would ever get away with that behavior? There's a reason you never read a book featuring an assistant manager at a Stop n Go as the Dom. Jail.
Anyhoo.
I'm not sure I'll finish this, or eve the series.
April 15, 2026
Brilliantly Written… But This One Tested Me!
Zoe Dawson delivers one of the most intense installments yet with Blue, book five in her SEAL Team Alpha series—and this one earns its warning label.
As a former military RN and the wife of a Special Ops soldier, I’m no stranger to stories that explore trauma, torture, and the psychological aftermath of war. I went in prepared.
I was not prepared for this.
This isn’t just a story—it’s an EMOTIONAL AMBUSH!
Dawson writes with a level of realism that doesn’t just pull you in—it pins you there. There were moments I didn’t just read… I felt them. Deeply. Uncomfortably. It stirred up memories and fears I thought I had long since packed away—the kind that come with loving someone who walks into danger and knowing one knock on the door can change everything.
That kind of emotional impact is rare. It’s also exhausting.
For much of the book, hope feels just out of reach. Blue is shattered in ways that are difficult to witness, and while Charlie is outwardly strong, I struggled to connect with her in the same way I have with Dawson’s previous heroines. Instead of grounding the story, she sometimes felt just as lost in it.
The most difficult piece for me was the portrayal of healing. The use of Shibari—Japanese rope art—as a therapeutic bridge between Blue and Charlie left me more confused than convinced. I understand the elements of trust, control, and connection. But how that translated into meaningful recovery from such profound trauma never fully landed for me, and that disconnect made their journey harder to believe in.
And yet… like a horrible accident on the side of a freeway...I couldn’t look away.
Dawson’s strengths are still here—complex characters, relentless pacing, and a team dynamic that continues to anchor the series. The story is compelling, even when it’s uncomfortable.
In the end, Blue left me conflicted. I admire the courage it took to write a story this raw. But it’s not one I could simply absorb—it’s one I had to push through.
Some stories hit close to home. This one didn’t just hit—it took me right back there… and I’m still trying to find my way out.
Zoe Dawson delivers one of the most intense installments yet with Blue, book five in her SEAL Team Alpha series—and this one earns its warning label.
As a former military RN and the wife of a Special Ops soldier, I’m no stranger to stories that explore trauma, torture, and the psychological aftermath of war. I went in prepared.
I was not prepared for this.
This isn’t just a story—it’s an EMOTIONAL AMBUSH!
Dawson writes with a level of realism that doesn’t just pull you in—it pins you there. There were moments I didn’t just read… I felt them. Deeply. Uncomfortably. It stirred up memories and fears I thought I had long since packed away—the kind that come with loving someone who walks into danger and knowing one knock on the door can change everything.
That kind of emotional impact is rare. It’s also exhausting.
For much of the book, hope feels just out of reach. Blue is shattered in ways that are difficult to witness, and while Charlie is outwardly strong, I struggled to connect with her in the same way I have with Dawson’s previous heroines. Instead of grounding the story, she sometimes felt just as lost in it.
The most difficult piece for me was the portrayal of healing. The use of Shibari—Japanese rope art—as a therapeutic bridge between Blue and Charlie left me more confused than convinced. I understand the elements of trust, control, and connection. But how that translated into meaningful recovery from such profound trauma never fully landed for me, and that disconnect made their journey harder to believe in.
And yet… like a horrible accident on the side of a freeway...I couldn’t look away.
Dawson’s strengths are still here—complex characters, relentless pacing, and a team dynamic that continues to anchor the series. The story is compelling, even when it’s uncomfortable.
In the end, Blue left me conflicted. I admire the courage it took to write a story this raw. But it’s not one I could simply absorb—it’s one I had to push through.
Some stories hit close to home. This one didn’t just hit—it took me right back there… and I’m still trying to find my way out.
August 27, 2019
Absolutely a must read!!
This is one of the powerfully written books I have ever read! There's not too much I can say without putting spoilers in my review, and I think that readers should find out for themselves why I feel my first sentence is absolutely true. Blue has been a character since the first book, so there is some information about his character and his love of life. Charlie comes into play after we learn a little about what happened to Blue at the end of Tank's book. While they are both strong, they are also both broken and this book details how they try to work through their pain, but together. I cried and smiled and laughed and cried again. It's an enormous undertaking to get through horrendous events in one's life, and not everyone has the support they so desperately need and deserve. But to find THE person who understands those needs, because of having been through horrors of their own, is a miracle! This story is poignant and also beautiful. I urge readers to read Blue's story, and the entire series of you can. I don't think you will ever forget it.
This is one of the powerfully written books I have ever read! There's not too much I can say without putting spoilers in my review, and I think that readers should find out for themselves why I feel my first sentence is absolutely true. Blue has been a character since the first book, so there is some information about his character and his love of life. Charlie comes into play after we learn a little about what happened to Blue at the end of Tank's book. While they are both strong, they are also both broken and this book details how they try to work through their pain, but together. I cried and smiled and laughed and cried again. It's an enormous undertaking to get through horrendous events in one's life, and not everyone has the support they so desperately need and deserve. But to find THE person who understands those needs, because of having been through horrors of their own, is a miracle! This story is poignant and also beautiful. I urge readers to read Blue's story, and the entire series of you can. I don't think you will ever forget it.
June 27, 2018
Raw and Thought Provoking
This installment of the Seal Team Alpha Series follows Blue’s heart wrenching journey to recovery from a brutal, torturous and sadistic experience in captivity. I am saddened by the 1 and 2 star reviews because in my opinion it doesn’t do the story justice. The story was well written and the relationship of Charlie and Blue was touching. The non-conventional Japanese rope bondage used by Charlie was implemented to help Blue open himself up to fully trusting again. I found the scenes intriguing and erotic. Charlie was well trained in this “art.” To readers who are enjoying this series I suggest you give this book a chance. Be open to what it has to offer. You will develop an appreciation for the human side of the super human SEALS. Love this Team and all its members! The meaning of “Brotherhood” will be quite evident. Great job Zoe Dawson!!! I won’t forget this story any time soon. Looking Forward to the rest of the series.
This installment of the Seal Team Alpha Series follows Blue’s heart wrenching journey to recovery from a brutal, torturous and sadistic experience in captivity. I am saddened by the 1 and 2 star reviews because in my opinion it doesn’t do the story justice. The story was well written and the relationship of Charlie and Blue was touching. The non-conventional Japanese rope bondage used by Charlie was implemented to help Blue open himself up to fully trusting again. I found the scenes intriguing and erotic. Charlie was well trained in this “art.” To readers who are enjoying this series I suggest you give this book a chance. Be open to what it has to offer. You will develop an appreciation for the human side of the super human SEALS. Love this Team and all its members! The meaning of “Brotherhood” will be quite evident. Great job Zoe Dawson!!! I won’t forget this story any time soon. Looking Forward to the rest of the series.
April 27, 2018
This story is my favorite so far in this series! I loved Blue! Blue is a warrior, a survivor, a Navy Seal. But his last mission almost broke him. He came back a changed man and not for the better. The Navy is Charlottes life. She lost her family to the sea. The first time Charlotte met Blue she was not impressed. He was an ass to say the least. But once she realized he was a broke man she knew she could help him. When Blue finally relented to letting her help, they both finally laid it all on the line and what happens next is nothing short of magical. But when Blue’s past comes to haunt him can Charlotte survive what happens? This is a beautiful story of a life that is broken and the love that can fix it! It is a story of loss and hope, one of strength and perseverance. This is the story of Blue and Charlotte! Loved it!!❤️
May 7, 2018
There is a wide range of sentiments conveyed in the fifth SEAL Team Alpha book, and I was totally caught up in each situation that developed because of the vast number of deeply affecting emotions. While there are some lighthearted moments, much of the story is focused on very genuine and frequently painful personal issues. The way in which the previous installment in the series ended had me knowing there would be plenty of hurdles for Blue to prevail over, but I had no idea what his journey would entail. Zoe Dawson has created an extremely stirring story of overcoming traumatic incidents, where trust must be built before healing can began. BLUE will long be remembered for its realistic circumstances and engaging characters.
Though Ocean “Blue” Beckett was physically tormented plus relentlessly interrogated after being captured by the enemy, the Navy SEAL medic never gave the information that they sought. Thankfully, he was finally rescued by his team, and he ends up in Panama City, Florida where he must undergo therapy before being able to go on any more missions. Blue will also be an instructor teaching classes to divers, as his knowledge as a SEAL is invaluable.
One of his students, Charlotte Coventry, is already in the Navy, and her goal is to become a master diver. She has also lived through a situation which still greatly influences her present life. The connection between them is immediate, but both realize acting on the attraction could be harmful to their careers. Blue and Charlie are at the school for specific reasons and getting in a relationship is not one of them.
While many books capture my thoughts by drawing me into the storyline, few increase my level of concern for a character like BLUE did on numerous occasions. I never knew what this brave SEAL would have to live through, nor how he would respond. This dedicated medic with a heart of gold is forever changed, and I so wanted him to once again be happy like he deserved. Charlie also has much to prevail over before she can have a normal life, and after these two meet, they must make some tough choices as fears are faced. Zoe Dawson packed their experiences with honest reactions and lots of soul-searching, making BLUE constantly engrossing. I fretted right along with them when an event seemed impossible, and I cheered them on when a new challenge surfaced.
The other team members of SEAL Team Alpha are featured from time to time, and the camaraderie they share is always evident. Missions are carried out, and achieving success is their objective. How they support one another when the need arises is touching, and I smiled when they actually expressed the way they felt inside. Some insight into Scarecrow’s life let me get a sense of what might happening in his book which is next, a story I am very eager to read.
I voluntarily reviewed the book and all comments are my honest opinion
Merged review:
There is a wide range of sentiments conveyed in the fifth SEAL Team Alpha book, and I was totally caught up in each situation that developed because of the vast number of deeply affecting emotions. While there are some lighthearted moments, much of the story is focused on very genuine and frequently painful personal issues. The way in which the previous installment in the series ended had me knowing there would be plenty of hurdles for Blue to prevail over, but I had no idea what his journey would entail. Zoe Dawson has created an extremely stirring story of overcoming traumatic incidents, where trust must be built before healing can began. BLUE will long be remembered for its realistic circumstances and engaging characters.
Though Ocean “Blue” Beckett was physically tormented plus relentlessly interrogated after being captured by the enemy, the Navy SEAL medic never gave the information that they sought. Thankfully, he was finally rescued by his team, and he ends up in Panama City, Florida where he must undergo therapy before being able to go on any more missions. Blue will also be an instructor teaching classes to divers, as his knowledge as a SEAL is invaluable.
One of his students, Charlotte Coventry, is already in the Navy, and her goal is to become a master diver. She has also lived through a situation which still greatly influences her present life. The connection between them is immediate, but both realize acting on the attraction could be harmful to their careers. Blue and Charlie are at the school for specific reasons and getting in a relationship is not one of them.
While many books capture my thoughts by drawing me into the storyline, few increase my level of concern for a character like BLUE did on numerous occasions. I never knew what this brave SEAL would have to live through, nor how he would respond. This dedicated medic with a heart of gold is forever changed, and I so wanted him to once again be happy like he deserved. Charlie also has much to prevail over before she can have a normal life, and after these two meet, they must make some tough choices as fears are faced. Zoe Dawson packed their experiences with honest reactions and lots of soul-searching, making BLUE constantly engrossing. I fretted right along with them when an event seemed impossible, and I cheered them on when a new challenge surfaced.
The other team members of SEAL Team Alpha are featured from time to time, and the camaraderie they share is always evident. Missions are carried out, and achieving success is their objective. How they support one another when the need arises is touching, and I smiled when they actually expressed the way they felt inside. Some insight into Scarecrow’s life let me get a sense of what might happening in his book which is next, a story I am very eager to read.
I voluntarily reviewed the book and all comments are my honest opinion
Though Ocean “Blue” Beckett was physically tormented plus relentlessly interrogated after being captured by the enemy, the Navy SEAL medic never gave the information that they sought. Thankfully, he was finally rescued by his team, and he ends up in Panama City, Florida where he must undergo therapy before being able to go on any more missions. Blue will also be an instructor teaching classes to divers, as his knowledge as a SEAL is invaluable.
One of his students, Charlotte Coventry, is already in the Navy, and her goal is to become a master diver. She has also lived through a situation which still greatly influences her present life. The connection between them is immediate, but both realize acting on the attraction could be harmful to their careers. Blue and Charlie are at the school for specific reasons and getting in a relationship is not one of them.
While many books capture my thoughts by drawing me into the storyline, few increase my level of concern for a character like BLUE did on numerous occasions. I never knew what this brave SEAL would have to live through, nor how he would respond. This dedicated medic with a heart of gold is forever changed, and I so wanted him to once again be happy like he deserved. Charlie also has much to prevail over before she can have a normal life, and after these two meet, they must make some tough choices as fears are faced. Zoe Dawson packed their experiences with honest reactions and lots of soul-searching, making BLUE constantly engrossing. I fretted right along with them when an event seemed impossible, and I cheered them on when a new challenge surfaced.
The other team members of SEAL Team Alpha are featured from time to time, and the camaraderie they share is always evident. Missions are carried out, and achieving success is their objective. How they support one another when the need arises is touching, and I smiled when they actually expressed the way they felt inside. Some insight into Scarecrow’s life let me get a sense of what might happening in his book which is next, a story I am very eager to read.
I voluntarily reviewed the book and all comments are my honest opinion
Merged review:
There is a wide range of sentiments conveyed in the fifth SEAL Team Alpha book, and I was totally caught up in each situation that developed because of the vast number of deeply affecting emotions. While there are some lighthearted moments, much of the story is focused on very genuine and frequently painful personal issues. The way in which the previous installment in the series ended had me knowing there would be plenty of hurdles for Blue to prevail over, but I had no idea what his journey would entail. Zoe Dawson has created an extremely stirring story of overcoming traumatic incidents, where trust must be built before healing can began. BLUE will long be remembered for its realistic circumstances and engaging characters.
Though Ocean “Blue” Beckett was physically tormented plus relentlessly interrogated after being captured by the enemy, the Navy SEAL medic never gave the information that they sought. Thankfully, he was finally rescued by his team, and he ends up in Panama City, Florida where he must undergo therapy before being able to go on any more missions. Blue will also be an instructor teaching classes to divers, as his knowledge as a SEAL is invaluable.
One of his students, Charlotte Coventry, is already in the Navy, and her goal is to become a master diver. She has also lived through a situation which still greatly influences her present life. The connection between them is immediate, but both realize acting on the attraction could be harmful to their careers. Blue and Charlie are at the school for specific reasons and getting in a relationship is not one of them.
While many books capture my thoughts by drawing me into the storyline, few increase my level of concern for a character like BLUE did on numerous occasions. I never knew what this brave SEAL would have to live through, nor how he would respond. This dedicated medic with a heart of gold is forever changed, and I so wanted him to once again be happy like he deserved. Charlie also has much to prevail over before she can have a normal life, and after these two meet, they must make some tough choices as fears are faced. Zoe Dawson packed their experiences with honest reactions and lots of soul-searching, making BLUE constantly engrossing. I fretted right along with them when an event seemed impossible, and I cheered them on when a new challenge surfaced.
The other team members of SEAL Team Alpha are featured from time to time, and the camaraderie they share is always evident. Missions are carried out, and achieving success is their objective. How they support one another when the need arises is touching, and I smiled when they actually expressed the way they felt inside. Some insight into Scarecrow’s life let me get a sense of what might happening in his book which is next, a story I am very eager to read.
I voluntarily reviewed the book and all comments are my honest opinion
May 14, 2018
This story is my favorite so far in this series! I loved Blue! Blue is a warrior, a survivor, a Navy Seal. But his last mission almost broke him. He came back a changed man and not for the better. The Navy is Charlie's life. She lost her family to the sea. The first time Charlie met Blue she was not impressed. He was an ass to say the least. But once she realized he was a broke man she knew she could help him. When Blue finally relented to letting her help, they both finally laid it all on the line and what happens next is nothing short of magical. This is a beautiful story of a life that is broken and the love that can fix it! It is a story of loss and hope, one of strength and perseverance. This is the story of Blue and Charlotte! Loved it!!
August 23, 2019
Wow! OMG! Horror, torture, death, broken trust, a traitor, a soul ripped apart, love, action, brotherhood destroyed and rebuilt, passion and Brother’s forever. What can I say. Plenty of suspense, action and evil. Sadistic torture to break the soul. All of this was interwoven-into an intricate web.
For Charlie, the loss of her family drove her to the Navy but stifled her life. For Blue, not being able to save some of his Seal brother’s as a corpsman being injured, brings him to being sadistically tortured and broken as a man, brother and as a human.
Charlie and Blue getting together save each other. What a heart warming story as well as a heart wrenching story. No man should ever have to go through what Blue did. I can’t wait to get into the next story.
For Charlie, the loss of her family drove her to the Navy but stifled her life. For Blue, not being able to save some of his Seal brother’s as a corpsman being injured, brings him to being sadistically tortured and broken as a man, brother and as a human.
Charlie and Blue getting together save each other. What a heart warming story as well as a heart wrenching story. No man should ever have to go through what Blue did. I can’t wait to get into the next story.
August 11, 2018
Returning to the SEAL Team series with Blue. These books are highly addictive. My poor Blue...this book is graphic in detail. I had to stop reading for a little bit because of the intensity of what is in this one. Captured and tortured, Blue will never be the same again.
This book was a pretty tough read in a lot of parts in this book, it's not one that I will easily forget. But like the other books in this series, you keep reading no matter what happens to the characters.
It's emotional, it's graphic - really graphic. Zoe does not hold back on that detail. A great read.
This book was a pretty tough read in a lot of parts in this book, it's not one that I will easily forget. But like the other books in this series, you keep reading no matter what happens to the characters.
It's emotional, it's graphic - really graphic. Zoe does not hold back on that detail. A great read.
May 17, 2020
BLUE'S TIED
The main character "Blue" was a POW, the sequels from it was damning. Blue lost a sacred part of him.
There comes a Woman from the BSDM Community who thinks the SHIBARI will help him.
There's one problem, even when the feelings and road to Blue's self control was thru SHIBARI the whole concept of "be Tie" lost all the beauty when goes into writing this book.
The author tried and I'm very happy to know that the author doesn't scare away from the BSDM Community, translating Shibari into words with only a mental image was just lost in translation.
The main character "Blue" was a POW, the sequels from it was damning. Blue lost a sacred part of him.
There comes a Woman from the BSDM Community who thinks the SHIBARI will help him.
There's one problem, even when the feelings and road to Blue's self control was thru SHIBARI the whole concept of "be Tie" lost all the beauty when goes into writing this book.
The author tried and I'm very happy to know that the author doesn't scare away from the BSDM Community, translating Shibari into words with only a mental image was just lost in translation.
Read
February 10, 2023Blue
This was a tender love story and heartbreaking as Blue had to come back from being a prisoner and the torture he had to go through before he was rescued by his SEAL unit. He met up with a very unique Navy diver who had been through trauma of her own and together they healed each other and found true love. This was a very suspenseful action packed story as well but this team of SEALs always had each others backs and were a true family. I cannot wait to read the next adventure of this team.
This was a tender love story and heartbreaking as Blue had to come back from being a prisoner and the torture he had to go through before he was rescued by his SEAL unit. He met up with a very unique Navy diver who had been through trauma of her own and together they healed each other and found true love. This was a very suspenseful action packed story as well but this team of SEALs always had each others backs and were a true family. I cannot wait to read the next adventure of this team.
April 28, 2018
I found Zoe Dawson through the Hope Parish series and both she & the series remain as one of my favorites. When I found the SEAL Team books by her, I couldn't wait to read them and they have not disappointed!! All of the books in this series are great, but BLUE is my favorite so far...Not all books make you actually feel the emotions of the characters but this one does. Read this book - heck - read the whole series...It's worth your time!
July 25, 2018
WOW!!!!!
Aaaaawww I've read all these books so far and never reviewed any before but this one really tore at the heart strings. Have loved all of them,they really pull you in to them and can't help feeling for them and even crying as well. Can't wait till next one comes along. Until this series I'd never read Zoe Dawson but I love her books and will definitely be carrying on doing so. All of them deserve 10stars if I could give but five,five,five all the way.
Aaaaawww I've read all these books so far and never reviewed any before but this one really tore at the heart strings. Have loved all of them,they really pull you in to them and can't help feeling for them and even crying as well. Can't wait till next one comes along. Until this series I'd never read Zoe Dawson but I love her books and will definitely be carrying on doing so. All of them deserve 10stars if I could give but five,five,five all the way.
June 8, 2020
Hard Core.
This book took me by surprise. I bought the whole series at a bundle price and the previous books had been the normal Testosterone sexy man strong woman loves warrior that I love to read. Blue takes u inside a POWs mind during and after capture and release. Well written I was to wrapped up in the story to go to the end first to see what happens. Great look into the other side of the brave heroes that defend our freedom
This book took me by surprise. I bought the whole series at a bundle price and the previous books had been the normal Testosterone sexy man strong woman loves warrior that I love to read. Blue takes u inside a POWs mind during and after capture and release. Well written I was to wrapped up in the story to go to the end first to see what happens. Great look into the other side of the brave heroes that defend our freedom
January 22, 2021
Oh my
First off I love this series and this Blue’s story was no exception. This story was heartbreaking and yet so beautiful that I had to remember to breath as I read . The trust and love written in the pages of this book spoke to me and made me feel the angst and frustration and devastation of both Blue and Charlie. Beware some details of this story are sure to be triggers and will bother some people .
First off I love this series and this Blue’s story was no exception. This story was heartbreaking and yet so beautiful that I had to remember to breath as I read . The trust and love written in the pages of this book spoke to me and made me feel the angst and frustration and devastation of both Blue and Charlie. Beware some details of this story are sure to be triggers and will bother some people .
January 4, 2022
This book took a bit to read, while we expect the abuse and cruelty it is still difficult to read it. Blue broke my heart in so many ways but his dedication to "get back" what he lost or though he lost was amazing.
The only thing that bothers me most is that this author has an aversion to condoms "I'm on the pill and safe" NO NO NO. I can't take away a star for this but for some reason the author is against safe, protected sex.
The only thing that bothers me most is that this author has an aversion to condoms "I'm on the pill and safe" NO NO NO. I can't take away a star for this but for some reason the author is against safe, protected sex.
May 3, 2018
Blue
Wow, amazing Blue and Charlie two tortured souls looking for healing. Met by chance and both felt a energy in the other one. Now if they can save each other and get back to living again. Both had horrible things happen to them in their life maybe they can find each other and make two whole people. Great book.
Wow, amazing Blue and Charlie two tortured souls looking for healing. Met by chance and both felt a energy in the other one. Now if they can save each other and get back to living again. Both had horrible things happen to them in their life maybe they can find each other and make two whole people. Great book.
February 21, 2021
This one was hard to read; not because it wasn't good, but because of the detail in how tortured the hero was, both by his captors and then his emotions and the various reactions to everything that happened in those around him. It was very emotional and had a much higher percentage of darkness than any of the series to date. I don't want to discourage anyone from reading this amazing story, but anyone who doesn't have the stomach for the horrible side isn't going to be able to take this one.
I love the interaction between hero and heroine before they get thrown together. These two were an unexpected couple, and I loved every bit of it. Having two broken people find their missing pieces in each other was epic and absolutely held me from page one to the end. I appreciate that it wasn't made out to be easy, it felt right. Breaking things to put them back together again.
I love the interaction between hero and heroine before they get thrown together. These two were an unexpected couple, and I loved every bit of it. Having two broken people find their missing pieces in each other was epic and absolutely held me from page one to the end. I appreciate that it wasn't made out to be easy, it felt right. Breaking things to put them back together again.
July 6, 2019
Blue
O didn't think I would be able to read this book, it's challenging and horrific in its content. Reading books on torture is not for the faint hearted. This book has been the best so far in this series. Thank you for writing it.
O didn't think I would be able to read this book, it's challenging and horrific in its content. Reading books on torture is not for the faint hearted. This book has been the best so far in this series. Thank you for writing it.
February 12, 2020
Must read
What a powerful story of courage and love. Blues story of his capture and torture is heartbreaking. The story is raw and gives the reader a picture of what Blue experienced and how his team is also impacted. A very powerful story
What a powerful story of courage and love. Blues story of his capture and torture is heartbreaking. The story is raw and gives the reader a picture of what Blue experienced and how his team is also impacted. A very powerful story
January 25, 2026
A Must!
What a fitting tribute to all of our warriors who have been taken, tortured, and abused so violently, in the name of war. This was just heartbreaking and heartfelt at the same time! Warriors are our own!
What a fitting tribute to all of our warriors who have been taken, tortured, and abused so violently, in the name of war. This was just heartbreaking and heartfelt at the same time! Warriors are our own!
June 12, 2018
Great reading
Oh what this set of books does to me.the seals are one of the best set in read.the action and thrills have you on your knees
Oh what this set of books does to me.the seals are one of the best set in read.the action and thrills have you on your knees
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