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Reclaiming Izabel
Three years ago Izabel Maddox lost the love of her life.
Not long after, a cruel twist of fate ripped away the last part she had of him.
Grief and devastating loss almost broke her, but she survived.
Focusing on building her childhood dream was her lifeline.
But just when she thought her heart could move on, her past came barreling back, making her question if the struggles of the past were all for nothing.
Three years ago Drake Maddox made the toughest decision of his life.
To protect his wife and avenge his brothers, the Navy SEAL faked his death.
Injuries and the loss of his team marked his soul, but it was losing Izabel and their unborn child that nearly broke him.
Focusing all his time and skills on finding the enemy was his lifeline.
Returning to his wife had always been his dream, but reclaiming Izabel might prove to be his ultimate nightmare.
Because his wife may never forgive him for betraying their vows.
Not long after, a cruel twist of fate ripped away the last part she had of him.
Grief and devastating loss almost broke her, but she survived.
Focusing on building her childhood dream was her lifeline.
But just when she thought her heart could move on, her past came barreling back, making her question if the struggles of the past were all for nothing.
Three years ago Drake Maddox made the toughest decision of his life.
To protect his wife and avenge his brothers, the Navy SEAL faked his death.
Injuries and the loss of his team marked his soul, but it was losing Izabel and their unborn child that nearly broke him.
Focusing all his time and skills on finding the enemy was his lifeline.
Returning to his wife had always been his dream, but reclaiming Izabel might prove to be his ultimate nightmare.
Because his wife may never forgive him for betraying their vows.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2018
1127 people are currently reading
647 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Paige
33 books1,061 followersVictoria Paige writes smart, edgy, seductive romance.
Her heroes are badass alpha males and her smart, strong-willed heroines can hold their own against a bossy hero. Her books are sexually explicit and may contain dark themes, morally ambiguous choices, and disturbing situations as she injects realism into her stories and gives them her own twist.
Victoria lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and playful German Shepherd Dog, Loki.
Find her at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriapaig...
Twitter: @vpaigebooks
Join my newsletter for new release info, extended epilogues, giveaways and other freebies: https://www.subscribepage.com/victori...
Her heroes are badass alpha males and her smart, strong-willed heroines can hold their own against a bossy hero. Her books are sexually explicit and may contain dark themes, morally ambiguous choices, and disturbing situations as she injects realism into her stories and gives them her own twist.
Victoria lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and playful German Shepherd Dog, Loki.
Find her at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriapaig...
Twitter: @vpaigebooks
Join my newsletter for new release info, extended epilogues, giveaways and other freebies: https://www.subscribepage.com/victori...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
November 17, 2018
3.5 STARS
The second I read the blurb to this book, I was all over it. And I mean ALL over it. It reminded me of one of my favorite books with a similar situation, Wild Card by Lora Leigh. A wife that believes her military husband dead until he comes back to reclaim her three years later. YES, PLEASE!
This had several delicious elements that I absolutely love in my books; an OTT alpha that loves and loves hard being the main one. I love me a good alpha, and Drake was one hot alpha. This is a man that's utterly obsessed and devoted to his wife. When a mission gone wrong forces him to fake his own death and let his wife believe it too, it completely breaks him. Coming back to her is the only thing that drives him during the three years it takes to complete the mission. And when he comes back to a shell shocked Izabel, he's not beyond groveling to get back into her heart.
I really enjoyed the book and the story. The characters were great and I was completely invested. The only thing that kept me from rating a little higher was the slight detachment I couldn't help but feel in the writing. It was such a strange combination to be invested in the characters but at the same time feeling like I'm being told about them rather than experiencing them. There was this choppiness to the story telling that made it slightly cold.
On the flip side, I loved the set up and Drake so much that it was pretty easy to look past that particular quibble. I love that Izabel really made him work for it. And I loved even more seeing this tough as nails alpha male turn to absolutely putty for his beloved wife.
The added element of suspense was great but I also couldn't help but wish for a little more. It wrapped up pretty quickly and felt somewhat sudden. I wished it was more fleshed out.
As a whole, I definitely enjoyed this book and recommend it for fans of romantic suspense and intense alpha males. This was my first book from this author but definitely won't be my last!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
Three years … I fought my way back to you, Izabel, but I’m drowning here. I want my wife back.”
The second I read the blurb to this book, I was all over it. And I mean ALL over it. It reminded me of one of my favorite books with a similar situation, Wild Card by Lora Leigh. A wife that believes her military husband dead until he comes back to reclaim her three years later. YES, PLEASE!
This had several delicious elements that I absolutely love in my books; an OTT alpha that loves and loves hard being the main one. I love me a good alpha, and Drake was one hot alpha. This is a man that's utterly obsessed and devoted to his wife. When a mission gone wrong forces him to fake his own death and let his wife believe it too, it completely breaks him. Coming back to her is the only thing that drives him during the three years it takes to complete the mission. And when he comes back to a shell shocked Izabel, he's not beyond groveling to get back into her heart.
I really enjoyed the book and the story. The characters were great and I was completely invested. The only thing that kept me from rating a little higher was the slight detachment I couldn't help but feel in the writing. It was such a strange combination to be invested in the characters but at the same time feeling like I'm being told about them rather than experiencing them. There was this choppiness to the story telling that made it slightly cold.
On the flip side, I loved the set up and Drake so much that it was pretty easy to look past that particular quibble. I love that Izabel really made him work for it. And I loved even more seeing this tough as nails alpha male turn to absolutely putty for his beloved wife.
The added element of suspense was great but I also couldn't help but wish for a little more. It wrapped up pretty quickly and felt somewhat sudden. I wished it was more fleshed out.
As a whole, I definitely enjoyed this book and recommend it for fans of romantic suspense and intense alpha males. This was my first book from this author but definitely won't be my last!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
October 31, 2018
I enjoyed reading the story. I was never bored. It was a good mix of suspense and romance.
I loved that the hero was faithful to the heroine and visa versa. They stayed faithful to each other including during a 3 year separation. Even though she thought he was dead she didn't have sex with OM although she causally went on a few dates. They never amounted to anything. I believe but am not sure that she let another man kiss her when she thought that her husband was dead. The hero was with no other women.
I liked the heroine but the hero irritated me. He made the decisions for her including let her think that he was dead and put his work before her. No cool. Bad things happened to her and she needed his emotional support but he choose not to be around for it. IMO she forgave him way too easily for his betrayal and lack of faith in her and in them.
I am probably saying the disclaiming words wrong because I usually do not do ARCS but here goes: I asked for and was given a free book in exchange for being willing to consider writing a review of the story.
I loved that the hero was faithful to the heroine and visa versa. They stayed faithful to each other including during a 3 year separation. Even though she thought he was dead she didn't have sex with OM although she causally went on a few dates. They never amounted to anything. I believe but am not sure that she let another man kiss her when she thought that her husband was dead. The hero was with no other women.
I liked the heroine but the hero irritated me. He made the decisions for her including let her think that he was dead and put his work before her. No cool. Bad things happened to her and she needed his emotional support but he choose not to be around for it. IMO she forgave him way too easily for his betrayal and lack of faith in her and in them.
I am probably saying the disclaiming words wrong because I usually do not do ARCS but here goes: I asked for and was given a free book in exchange for being willing to consider writing a review of the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2018
I don’t think I’m cut out for suspense…
Geez, I love my hubby!! After reading Reclaiming Izabel, it just reinforced how much I love him. The worst he’s done to me was choosing to go and watch a sports game instead of taking me to coffee. Well, that was the most recent stuff-up and he paid…lordy, how he paid. Now, I kind of regret giving him such a hard time. At least he didn’t leave me for three years and make me believe he was DEAD. Reclaiming Izabel was a very hard story to love and to be honest, my Kindle was in serious jeopardy a time or two.
I was so angry with Drake that I had to step away and take a deep breath before I could go on. CHOICES!!! CHOICES!!! CHOICES!!! Drake should not have married if he could put his job before his wife. His bosses should never have put him in the position of having to make that choice. Stopping him, by force, from making the choice he wanted to make, THAT WAS DIABOLICAL!!
HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN THERE FOR HER!!!!
I’m getting angry again just THINKING about this…
Deep breaths…
Izabel was a much better woman than I ever could be. I wanted to scream at her when her defences started to crumble. The poor woman had been through hell, put herself back together, and was just starting to live again. Drake walks back in, and she’s expected to forgive and forget the nightmare HE made her live. I couldn’t get past it. Such a betrayal. How can he live with himself knowing that the “love of his life” was suffering?
I get it. His hands were tied. He was worried about her safety. He had to get the baddies. But it SUCKED that he was forced to MAKE THE WRONG CHOICE…in my opinion.
My biggest problem with reading suspense is that I take it too bloody seriously. Mind you, I know I take all of my reads too bloody seriously. It probably doesn’t help that Victoria Paige writes very convincing stories. They lead me to think she’s “in the know” about stuff. For starters, Victor Baran seems so real. That man could give me nightmares and HE’S ON THE GOOD SIDE!! If even a smidgen of this story was based on fact, we seriously need to rethink who we vote into power.
Would you believe it…I actually finished Reclaiming Izabel with a smile on my face? I know, I know, there’s a lot of shouty capital ^^^up there^^^ but it’s true. If you had asked me if a smile on my face was possible while I was in the thick of things, the swearing you’d be blasted with would be shocking. Things do work out well in the end, but it was bloody hard going.
The characters we see again and others we meet for the first time were very engaging. I’m not sure Victoria Paige can write weak characters. Obviously, Drake had to do a LOT of work to take me from cranky to smiling, but he does do it. Izabel is strong, determined and very forgiving which I couldn’t help but admire her for. Together, they were electric and their connection jumped off the pages.
This is a Victoria Paige suspense so of course, I spent much of my time reading with my heart in my throat. Each time Izabel was alone, I was sure the boogeyman was waiting around the corner. I love reading about all the tech gizmos and gadgets, treason, treachery and war crimes. It always makes me feel I should spend more time reading the paper...or not, considering it's pretty darn scary out there.
If you’re a fan of military romance with a very bossy, possessive and HOT hero, loving a strong and determined heroine, I recommend Reclaiming Izabel. Funny thing...that cover REALLY caught and held my eye, but the blurb had me running for the hills. Good thing that cover pushed me to take the risk because the blurb wasn't as scary as I thought it would be. Drake and Izabel’s love story was hard to witness but worth the struggles in the end.
Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
Geez, I love my hubby!! After reading Reclaiming Izabel, it just reinforced how much I love him. The worst he’s done to me was choosing to go and watch a sports game instead of taking me to coffee. Well, that was the most recent stuff-up and he paid…lordy, how he paid. Now, I kind of regret giving him such a hard time. At least he didn’t leave me for three years and make me believe he was DEAD. Reclaiming Izabel was a very hard story to love and to be honest, my Kindle was in serious jeopardy a time or two.
I was so angry with Drake that I had to step away and take a deep breath before I could go on. CHOICES!!! CHOICES!!! CHOICES!!! Drake should not have married if he could put his job before his wife. His bosses should never have put him in the position of having to make that choice. Stopping him, by force, from making the choice he wanted to make, THAT WAS DIABOLICAL!!
HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN THERE FOR HER!!!!
I’m getting angry again just THINKING about this…
Deep breaths…
Izabel was a much better woman than I ever could be. I wanted to scream at her when her defences started to crumble. The poor woman had been through hell, put herself back together, and was just starting to live again. Drake walks back in, and she’s expected to forgive and forget the nightmare HE made her live. I couldn’t get past it. Such a betrayal. How can he live with himself knowing that the “love of his life” was suffering?
I get it. His hands were tied. He was worried about her safety. He had to get the baddies. But it SUCKED that he was forced to MAKE THE WRONG CHOICE…in my opinion.
My biggest problem with reading suspense is that I take it too bloody seriously. Mind you, I know I take all of my reads too bloody seriously. It probably doesn’t help that Victoria Paige writes very convincing stories. They lead me to think she’s “in the know” about stuff. For starters, Victor Baran seems so real. That man could give me nightmares and HE’S ON THE GOOD SIDE!! If even a smidgen of this story was based on fact, we seriously need to rethink who we vote into power.
Would you believe it…I actually finished Reclaiming Izabel with a smile on my face? I know, I know, there’s a lot of shouty capital ^^^up there^^^ but it’s true. If you had asked me if a smile on my face was possible while I was in the thick of things, the swearing you’d be blasted with would be shocking. Things do work out well in the end, but it was bloody hard going.
The characters we see again and others we meet for the first time were very engaging. I’m not sure Victoria Paige can write weak characters. Obviously, Drake had to do a LOT of work to take me from cranky to smiling, but he does do it. Izabel is strong, determined and very forgiving which I couldn’t help but admire her for. Together, they were electric and their connection jumped off the pages.
This is a Victoria Paige suspense so of course, I spent much of my time reading with my heart in my throat. Each time Izabel was alone, I was sure the boogeyman was waiting around the corner. I love reading about all the tech gizmos and gadgets, treason, treachery and war crimes. It always makes me feel I should spend more time reading the paper...or not, considering it's pretty darn scary out there.
If you’re a fan of military romance with a very bossy, possessive and HOT hero, loving a strong and determined heroine, I recommend Reclaiming Izabel. Funny thing...that cover REALLY caught and held my eye, but the blurb had me running for the hills. Good thing that cover pushed me to take the risk because the blurb wasn't as scary as I thought it would be. Drake and Izabel’s love story was hard to witness but worth the struggles in the end.
Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
March 24, 2020
This made me angry. I have issues with the "had to fake his death" angle as played out here, but more than that I wanted to scream at how much of a non-entity Izabel is. How little anyone, including her, seem to care about or prioritize her needs and wants.
Drake's thoughts are full of how he's going to have to apologize and make it right; his friends tease him that he's going to have to grovel (as if that's too much to ask after faking his death for three years). But Izabel apologizes for crying on him before he ever apologizes for what he put her through. He says I'm sorry exactly twice before they have sex. There is no groveling, no abject apologies, nor even any attempts to make amends through actions. Instead, there's a lot of impatience. Hours after he's back he's demanding she let him hold her, because he can't stand it--and she lets him. He complains that she's not giving him much of a welcome home. Within four days he's brought his psychiatrist to speak to her--which is so fucked up I can't even. The very idea screams conflict of interest. She then gets a few days of distance followed by TWO. WHOLE. DAYS of being "courted"--which involves take out and orchids-- before she decides that he had to fake his death in order to go after the bad guy, because that's just the kind of man he is. Can't you just swoon?
Blech. No. Uh-uh.
And that's not even getting into how implausible I find the execution of the central premise. Or that Tex never found a time or way to tell her, even after she started to recover emotionally and thus her no longer being devastated wouldn't give the game away. Or how strange it is that a woman being "protected" from terrorists could still be run over by a bike messenger. If only the terrorists knew!
It says nothing about what a dick move it was to put his friend in place to keep Izabel from moving on and finding someone else to be happy with. As if she's a doll he can place on a shelf for three years until he's ready to pay attention to her again, and there's nothing problematic about that at all. Or the implication that since Drake made what he thought were all the best choices, Izabel is unreasonable to be angry. As if the right to choose, to have others perceive and acknowledge that what you want matters isn't massively important. As if quality of life isn't important.
DNF at 65%.
Drake's thoughts are full of how he's going to have to apologize and make it right; his friends tease him that he's going to have to grovel (as if that's too much to ask after faking his death for three years). But Izabel apologizes for crying on him before he ever apologizes for what he put her through. He says I'm sorry exactly twice before they have sex. There is no groveling, no abject apologies, nor even any attempts to make amends through actions. Instead, there's a lot of impatience. Hours after he's back he's demanding she let him hold her, because he can't stand it--and she lets him. He complains that she's not giving him much of a welcome home. Within four days he's brought his psychiatrist to speak to her--which is so fucked up I can't even. The very idea screams conflict of interest. She then gets a few days of distance followed by TWO. WHOLE. DAYS of being "courted"--which involves take out and orchids-- before she decides that he had to fake his death in order to go after the bad guy, because that's just the kind of man he is. Can't you just swoon?
Blech. No. Uh-uh.
And that's not even getting into how implausible I find the execution of the central premise. Or that Tex never found a time or way to tell her, even after she started to recover emotionally and thus her no longer being devastated wouldn't give the game away. Or how strange it is that a woman being "protected" from terrorists could still be run over by a bike messenger. If only the terrorists knew!
It says nothing about what a dick move it was to put his friend in place to keep Izabel from moving on and finding someone else to be happy with. As if she's a doll he can place on a shelf for three years until he's ready to pay attention to her again, and there's nothing problematic about that at all. Or the implication that since Drake made what he thought were all the best choices, Izabel is unreasonable to be angry. As if the right to choose, to have others perceive and acknowledge that what you want matters isn't massively important. As if quality of life isn't important.
DNF at 65%.
November 16, 2018
I enjoyed this one for the most part. I do wish the hero had to do a bit more groveling. He basically shows back up after three years of the heroine thinking he is dead and moves right the fuck back in. I don't care how sad he was, or how he did it to protect her; she deserved some space to figure things out without him being underfoot and guilting her about how she was hurting him...sigh.
Apparently, I am a mean biatch that holds a grudge. *lol*
Apparently, I am a mean biatch that holds a grudge. *lol*
November 15, 2018
It's been a while since I've read a Rom-Suspense book.
I was all geared up for my secret agent fix.
This is told in 3rd person POV. Izabel is married to Drake Maddox.
While on a mission, Drake is reported killed, as were other members of his team.
There are appearances and mentions of other characters from other books in the Guardian Series ( loved that series!)
Maddox is gone for 3 years while Izabel is left to carry on. She suffers in grief over more than one loss.
She's successful in her career but has an empty personal life.
Drake tries to make it back to Izabel, but is forces to complete is mission and keep his cover.
These two have great chemistry, even when they are still trying to heal their relationship.
This is a short book, but I sure did get a great taste of my Rom-Suspense fix.
I enjoyed this one & looking forward to the next one!
Thanks to the author for the ARC. This my 12th Victoria Paige book (including a couple of novellas).
4.25 stars
I was all geared up for my secret agent fix.
This is told in 3rd person POV. Izabel is married to Drake Maddox.
While on a mission, Drake is reported killed, as were other members of his team.
There are appearances and mentions of other characters from other books in the Guardian Series ( loved that series!)
Maddox is gone for 3 years while Izabel is left to carry on. She suffers in grief over more than one loss.
She's successful in her career but has an empty personal life.
Drake tries to make it back to Izabel, but is forces to complete is mission and keep his cover.
These two have great chemistry, even when they are still trying to heal their relationship.
This is a short book, but I sure did get a great taste of my Rom-Suspense fix.
I enjoyed this one & looking forward to the next one!
Thanks to the author for the ARC. This my 12th Victoria Paige book (including a couple of novellas).
4.25 stars
June 24, 2019
3.5 'Navy Seal Alpha' Stars
My first suspense romance in a long while and honestly, I wasn't very interested in the suspense aspect of the story. I kind of wanted to skip over it and get to the nitty-gritty—Iza & Drake's relationship.
Iza was told her husband, Drake, was dead. For 3 years she mourned the love of her life and had just decided it was time to move on when Drake suddenly came back. I wanted to know how Iza would feel and react and how these two would deal with the time they lost. How would Drake grovel for the decisions he made and would he manage to convince her to trust him again. All my book friends know what a sucker I am for a good grovel. In my opinion, Iza was too quick to accept the reasons he gave her for faking his death but then again they were valid ones. My favorite part of the book was Drake's alpha behavior; it gave me all the warm and fuzzies. His unyielding determination to make things work had my rapt attention.
For the most part, the story felt surface level but fairly enjoyable. Like a beach read or anthology. It was a little under 300 pages but seemed shorter. Maybe I just needed more. I'm interested in the secondary characters so I'll be checking out the other books in the series. There's lots of them! Woohoo
Safety Gang Note:
No cheating at all. For those 3 years Iza and Drake weren't together, they were celibate.
My first suspense romance in a long while and honestly, I wasn't very interested in the suspense aspect of the story. I kind of wanted to skip over it and get to the nitty-gritty—Iza & Drake's relationship.
Iza was told her husband, Drake, was dead. For 3 years she mourned the love of her life and had just decided it was time to move on when Drake suddenly came back. I wanted to know how Iza would feel and react and how these two would deal with the time they lost. How would Drake grovel for the decisions he made and would he manage to convince her to trust him again. All my book friends know what a sucker I am for a good grovel. In my opinion, Iza was too quick to accept the reasons he gave her for faking his death but then again they were valid ones. My favorite part of the book was Drake's alpha behavior; it gave me all the warm and fuzzies. His unyielding determination to make things work had my rapt attention.
For the most part, the story felt surface level but fairly enjoyable. Like a beach read or anthology. It was a little under 300 pages but seemed shorter. Maybe I just needed more. I'm interested in the secondary characters so I'll be checking out the other books in the series. There's lots of them! Woohoo
Safety Gang Note:
No cheating at all. For those 3 years Iza and Drake weren't together, they were celibate.
November 22, 2018
Not for me.
For the events that take place in this book, the characters felt very superficial and one dimensional. Not real depth to the characters or their dialogue.
For the events that take place in this book, the characters felt very superficial and one dimensional. Not real depth to the characters or their dialogue.
August 13, 2025
**3.5 Stars**
Drake, a SEAL, adored his wife and would do anything for her, anything to keep her safe, including letting her think he's been dead for three years. He's experienced loss while in the Navy, but not being able to be with her every day, both having to suffer alone as she lost their child, has been the hardest thing he's ever done. Drake has known once she's safe and his brothers-in-arms have been avenged, he'd return to his wife, ready to start living again...but can she forgive him for lying.
Izabel has struggled for three years, her heart refusing to believe Drake is gone, that their child, her last piece of him, is gone. But she tries to move past the grief that almost takes her too, knowing it's what Drake would want. And just when she starts to live again, to think of the future, her past returns. It seems Drake is alive and somewhat well, and has been this whole time. He assures her his reasons made it necessary, but can she open her heart again just when it was finally starting to heal?
Can Izabel forgive Drake? Can Drake convince Izabel he only did what he did as a last resort to keeping her safe, to finding justice for the lives that were lost? Can these two move forward, the love between them having never faded over the three years they were apart? Is a HEA possible?
One-click now and follow along as two people, both as in love as they've always been, must move past the pain of Drake's deception and live again.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Drake, a SEAL, adored his wife and would do anything for her, anything to keep her safe, including letting her think he's been dead for three years. He's experienced loss while in the Navy, but not being able to be with her every day, both having to suffer alone as she lost their child, has been the hardest thing he's ever done. Drake has known once she's safe and his brothers-in-arms have been avenged, he'd return to his wife, ready to start living again...but can she forgive him for lying.
Izabel has struggled for three years, her heart refusing to believe Drake is gone, that their child, her last piece of him, is gone. But she tries to move past the grief that almost takes her too, knowing it's what Drake would want. And just when she starts to live again, to think of the future, her past returns. It seems Drake is alive and somewhat well, and has been this whole time. He assures her his reasons made it necessary, but can she open her heart again just when it was finally starting to heal?
Can Izabel forgive Drake? Can Drake convince Izabel he only did what he did as a last resort to keeping her safe, to finding justice for the lives that were lost? Can these two move forward, the love between them having never faded over the three years they were apart? Is a HEA possible?
One-click now and follow along as two people, both as in love as they've always been, must move past the pain of Drake's deception and live again.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
August 2, 2025
★★. I wanted more angst I can’t lie. I appreciated that both were celibate because the mmc could’ve easily slept around during the separation. I don’t think groveling needed to be done because he didn’t leave to just leave. I do however, think they slept together too quickly and they should’ve discussed the baby more.
For my safety people, safe kinda. Both are celibate and we get no info on their past. The fmc does go on a date and kiss the other man. There’s jealousy from the mmc.
For my safety people, safe kinda. Both are celibate and we get no info on their past. The fmc does go on a date and kiss the other man. There’s jealousy from the mmc.
June 14, 2025
Another winner from Victoria Paige
I really enjoyed this couple’s story! They had a great start in their marriage and then Drake is declared dead after a mission goes bad. It hurt to read what these two went through while separated and after they got a second chance to be together. I was totally involved in the story and couldn’t put it down until the end.
I love an alpha male who tries to put his needs on hold when he recognizes his woman deserves some time and groveling. After so much trauma, Izabel needed to readjust to a new reality more than once. She couldn’t just automatically forgive her husband for keeping secrets while she believed he was dead. Too often other stories have the heroine quickly forgive and then the couple has sex thinking it solves everything. Izabel deserved her moments of anger and attitude after all that happened. Her resistance and feelings of betrayal are justified. Drake acknowledged that none of this was fair. As much as his alpha personality wanted to hold on tight to reclaim his wife, he realized that he must do whatever he can to heal their breach, even when it’s frustrating with no guaranteed outcome.
Izabel made Drake work for their reunion even though he felt forced to make a devastating decision that tore their lives apart. I liked that she insisted they had to re-evaluate their relationship and how things have changed before she can forgive and reconnect to her husband. She deserved time to work through her anger and sorrow. Drake had the knowledge during those three years that he would return, but Izabel did not have that same hope. She needed time to work it out, patience, and understanding. I loved that this couple did the work to find their way back. They obviously had deep feelings that kept them committed to rebuilding their marriage.
There are some very touching scenes that show the couple’s deep connection before their time apart and also some great conflicts and conversations afterwards. Although Drake is back, there is still danger waiting to pounce and stir up more trouble for this couple. I always enjoy some suspense with my romance and Victoria Paige always delivers.
This story had a lot of angst and turmoil, but it was a necessary part of the journey to reconciliation after so much happened to Izabel and Drake. Drake stood strong in his belief that they belonged together even when things seemed bleak. After some tough times and emotional trials, there was a very satisfying ending and a nice wrap up in the epilogue. I highly recommend this story.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy provided by the author.
Update: The author's updated version of this book was great! I really enjoyed it all over again.
I really enjoyed this couple’s story! They had a great start in their marriage and then Drake is declared dead after a mission goes bad. It hurt to read what these two went through while separated and after they got a second chance to be together. I was totally involved in the story and couldn’t put it down until the end.
I love an alpha male who tries to put his needs on hold when he recognizes his woman deserves some time and groveling. After so much trauma, Izabel needed to readjust to a new reality more than once. She couldn’t just automatically forgive her husband for keeping secrets while she believed he was dead. Too often other stories have the heroine quickly forgive and then the couple has sex thinking it solves everything. Izabel deserved her moments of anger and attitude after all that happened. Her resistance and feelings of betrayal are justified. Drake acknowledged that none of this was fair. As much as his alpha personality wanted to hold on tight to reclaim his wife, he realized that he must do whatever he can to heal their breach, even when it’s frustrating with no guaranteed outcome.
Izabel made Drake work for their reunion even though he felt forced to make a devastating decision that tore their lives apart. I liked that she insisted they had to re-evaluate their relationship and how things have changed before she can forgive and reconnect to her husband. She deserved time to work through her anger and sorrow. Drake had the knowledge during those three years that he would return, but Izabel did not have that same hope. She needed time to work it out, patience, and understanding. I loved that this couple did the work to find their way back. They obviously had deep feelings that kept them committed to rebuilding their marriage.
There are some very touching scenes that show the couple’s deep connection before their time apart and also some great conflicts and conversations afterwards. Although Drake is back, there is still danger waiting to pounce and stir up more trouble for this couple. I always enjoy some suspense with my romance and Victoria Paige always delivers.
This story had a lot of angst and turmoil, but it was a necessary part of the journey to reconciliation after so much happened to Izabel and Drake. Drake stood strong in his belief that they belonged together even when things seemed bleak. After some tough times and emotional trials, there was a very satisfying ending and a nice wrap up in the epilogue. I highly recommend this story.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy provided by the author.
Update: The author's updated version of this book was great! I really enjoyed it all over again.
June 28, 2025
Not bad, but definitely not as angsty as I thought it would be. This is the new edited edition, so I can't compare it to the older version. The plot is exactly as the blurb reads. Drake fakes death after his SEAL team is attacked to avenge his men, and save his wife. 3 years go by and he shows up to reestablish his marriage, but thing's don't go as smoothly as he thought they would. And of course they don't. While the h was grieving her husband, a couple of months later she lost the baby she was carrying. Very sad indeed, but I couldn't really connect with the characters. For this plot it felt too shallow and surface level. I thought I'd be feeling all the feels, but I felt nothing. I even skimmed some parts. Overall it was just ok. I'll probably check out her other books for the side characters to see if they're any better.
Safety: both celibate. though the h tried to move on and couldn't
Safety: both celibate. though the h tried to move on and couldn't
April 12, 2020
Loved the hero
He was very alpha and I like that. He takes his death three years ago well he didn't the government did and he wants his wife back. He got the bad guys and is ready to see her again. She was angry and I understand that but it annoyed me. She should have been so happy that he was back but she doesn't trust him. They both were celibate while apart because he loved her so much. She was not quite ready to move on, although she kissed a guy the night he came home. Husband was a caveman and I liked it. Over the years he had several people was ching over her to make sure she was okay and didn't move on. It was cute. They still were trying to find the mastermind and there is kidnapping, angst and drama and I really enjoyed this book. The other books in the series interested me until I read the storyline so I am just sticking with this one. I do like her style of writing and it keeps me engaged. Sex scenes are a little too graphic for me but the rest of the story was really good. Short read and free on Kindle.
He was very alpha and I like that. He takes his death three years ago well he didn't the government did and he wants his wife back. He got the bad guys and is ready to see her again. She was angry and I understand that but it annoyed me. She should have been so happy that he was back but she doesn't trust him. They both were celibate while apart because he loved her so much. She was not quite ready to move on, although she kissed a guy the night he came home. Husband was a caveman and I liked it. Over the years he had several people was ching over her to make sure she was okay and didn't move on. It was cute. They still were trying to find the mastermind and there is kidnapping, angst and drama and I really enjoyed this book. The other books in the series interested me until I read the storyline so I am just sticking with this one. I do like her style of writing and it keeps me engaged. Sex scenes are a little too graphic for me but the rest of the story was really good. Short read and free on Kindle.
August 1, 2025
Pls free us Arabs from being stereotyped into being terrorists in these military fiction books 😩😩😩
November 11, 2018
It has been a while since I read a military romance. This book didn't disappoint it had the right balance of love and suspense. My heart hurt for Izabel, I can only imagine how difficult it would be losing the love of your life. I love that there is no cheating in the story, that is a big plus for me. I am not going to pretend to understand Drake choices but I think he needed more grovelling, I guess love forgives easily. My only negative for this book is that it finished way too fast, I wish I wouldn't have read it so quickly. But that's just me trying to make the books I like last longer.
This was an advance readers copy, generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest opinion.
This was an advance readers copy, generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest opinion.
January 30, 2022
Ok... HOW IN THE HELL does this book have a rating of over 4 stars?!
Ok, ok. Let me explain something. This book is described by many readers as grovel and alpha male and even the freaking title has a "Alpha" tag to it BUT!
Would somebody freaking explain to me how can someone be an Alpha and still be such a little mental bitch?
No offense to the H, he was described as being VERY hot, handsome, sexy and rough and bla and bla bla (all things that I do love). And the h was amazingly strong and there was no excessive drama BUT!!! For an Alpha the h sure wasn't making too many INDEPENDENT decisions, nor was he even REMOTELY in control of his life.
Let me explain....
H: ok this is my last mission
His Boss: hahaha psych! No it's not!
H: but my wife
His boss: yeah she'll deal
H: oh ok... I guess.... if you say so
Another one:
H: THIS IS BULLSHIT I need to see my wife, something SUPER BAD happened to her!!
His boss: oh really? Yeah I heard too bad.. Hey what are you doing?
H: packing my shit and going.
His boss: Bad soldier! I said no didn't I? Bad boy!
H: (gets thrown in jail for a couple days)
His boss: (comes to his cell after 3 days) you better now? Are you gonna disobey anymore?
H: *pouts* no sir... sorry sir...
Another one:
H: omg my wife is acting strange and doesn't want to take me back anymore after I lied to her and she lost so many people!
His boss: you'll talk to a shrink
H: or really?
His boss: yup and I'm not even asking you, oh and P.S. your wife is gonna do the same! Let's just call it an intervention
H: what a splendid idea! And I won't even ask her either then!
h: are you fucking kidding me? Hell no!! Oh but since the shrink called my best friend and he commanded me to do it, ill actually do it....
DO YOU SEE WHAT I MEAN?
Like none of the story was based on their experience, and instead the whole thing was ruled by stupid influences that they could not even say no to.
....
Like WOW, it started real good and about 53% of the book in I could not go on anymore because of how very oxymoronish this story was....
Sorry if the review is too brutal, but these kind of books really bother me.. you can't just say that this book is about a true Alpha male and just make him into the Disney version of Tarzan...
Ok, ok. Let me explain something. This book is described by many readers as grovel and alpha male and even the freaking title has a "Alpha" tag to it BUT!
Would somebody freaking explain to me how can someone be an Alpha and still be such a little mental bitch?
No offense to the H, he was described as being VERY hot, handsome, sexy and rough and bla and bla bla (all things that I do love). And the h was amazingly strong and there was no excessive drama BUT!!! For an Alpha the h sure wasn't making too many INDEPENDENT decisions, nor was he even REMOTELY in control of his life.
Let me explain....
H: ok this is my last mission
His Boss: hahaha psych! No it's not!
H: but my wife
His boss: yeah she'll deal
H: oh ok... I guess.... if you say so
Another one:
H: THIS IS BULLSHIT I need to see my wife, something SUPER BAD happened to her!!
His boss: oh really? Yeah I heard too bad.. Hey what are you doing?
H: packing my shit and going.
His boss: Bad soldier! I said no didn't I? Bad boy!
H: (gets thrown in jail for a couple days)
His boss: (comes to his cell after 3 days) you better now? Are you gonna disobey anymore?
H: *pouts* no sir... sorry sir...
Another one:
H: omg my wife is acting strange and doesn't want to take me back anymore after I lied to her and she lost so many people!
His boss: you'll talk to a shrink
H: or really?
His boss: yup and I'm not even asking you, oh and P.S. your wife is gonna do the same! Let's just call it an intervention
H: what a splendid idea! And I won't even ask her either then!
h: are you fucking kidding me? Hell no!! Oh but since the shrink called my best friend and he commanded me to do it, ill actually do it....
DO YOU SEE WHAT I MEAN?
Like none of the story was based on their experience, and instead the whole thing was ruled by stupid influences that they could not even say no to.
....
Like WOW, it started real good and about 53% of the book in I could not go on anymore because of how very oxymoronish this story was....
Sorry if the review is too brutal, but these kind of books really bother me.. you can't just say that this book is about a true Alpha male and just make him into the Disney version of Tarzan...
October 16, 2025
I honestly don't get it.
What has he actually done to redeem himself? All he did was show up complain and moan about her having any kind of a life in his absence, resent her selling the house (he was ostensibly DEAD ffs), and pressure her with his expectation that they resume their relationship like he didn't shit all over her love, her trust, and his promises. "I'm sorry," and "I missed you," just don't cover a betrayal this egregious. Basically all he had to do was whine about how her bitterness and spiteful comments were destroying him, and she was ready to forgive him everything, as if his abandonment and betrayal didn't crush her for YEARS -- he couldn't take rejection a week (funny how after swearing he would never give up trying to get her back he was ready to quit after a week despite putting her through hell for years). He literally did NOTHING exceptional -- he brought dinner a couple times, bought her a couple of orchids, and that makes up for 3 years of being gone, failing to help her through losing their baby, and lying to her, ABANDONING HER for YEARS, huh? Pretty much relying on Crusader syndrome (the notion that because he's a soldier, has been to fight for God and country, all crimes/trespasses are forgiven, i.e., he can do no wrong and is owed everything) to do the heavy lifting for the plot. He was an adult-shaped toddler throwing a mantrum because he didn't get what he wanted, what he felt he deserved, as soon as he wanted it. She made all the of the concessions and the majority of the sacrifices, so he could go off and live out his revenge/hero fantasy and he expects special treatment because it didn't turn out the way he envisioned. Yeah, not impressed, and I really don't get why this gets as many four- and five-star ratings as it does.
What has he actually done to redeem himself? All he did was show up complain and moan about her having any kind of a life in his absence, resent her selling the house (he was ostensibly DEAD ffs), and pressure her with his expectation that they resume their relationship like he didn't shit all over her love, her trust, and his promises. "I'm sorry," and "I missed you," just don't cover a betrayal this egregious. Basically all he had to do was whine about how her bitterness and spiteful comments were destroying him, and she was ready to forgive him everything, as if his abandonment and betrayal didn't crush her for YEARS -- he couldn't take rejection a week (funny how after swearing he would never give up trying to get her back he was ready to quit after a week despite putting her through hell for years). He literally did NOTHING exceptional -- he brought dinner a couple times, bought her a couple of orchids, and that makes up for 3 years of being gone, failing to help her through losing their baby, and lying to her, ABANDONING HER for YEARS, huh? Pretty much relying on Crusader syndrome (the notion that because he's a soldier, has been to fight for God and country, all crimes/trespasses are forgiven, i.e., he can do no wrong and is owed everything) to do the heavy lifting for the plot. He was an adult-shaped toddler throwing a mantrum because he didn't get what he wanted, what he felt he deserved, as soon as he wanted it. She made all the of the concessions and the majority of the sacrifices, so he could go off and live out his revenge/hero fantasy and he expects special treatment because it didn't turn out the way he envisioned. Yeah, not impressed, and I really don't get why this gets as many four- and five-star ratings as it does.
November 13, 2018
This was a good book.
OTT possessive Hero.
Separation for I think 3 years, both celibate.
Heroine thinks Hero is dead so she tries to date but her heart isn't in it. She shares a kiss with a another man just before the Hero comes back. She does wonder at the time if she could consider a future with him but is struggling to move on.
The Hero is faithful and swears there will never be anyone else for him.
I felt a bit sorry for the Hero at times, he was in a difficult position. The heroine doesn't just accept him back it takes time and perseverance.
Plenty of scenes from Tex and others from the Susan Stoker world.
OTT possessive Hero.
Separation for I think 3 years, both celibate.
Heroine thinks Hero is dead so she tries to date but her heart isn't in it. She shares a kiss with a another man just before the Hero comes back. She does wonder at the time if she could consider a future with him but is struggling to move on.
The Hero is faithful and swears there will never be anyone else for him.
I felt a bit sorry for the Hero at times, he was in a difficult position. The heroine doesn't just accept him back it takes time and perseverance.
Plenty of scenes from Tex and others from the Susan Stoker world.
September 14, 2021
Wow, that was more emotional than I thought! The thing I loved most was Drakes unwavering devotion and loyalty to his wife. A lot of books add OW drama. I need my men to be celibate and faithful during separation, even if it spans years! Drake was just perfect to me. All bad ass alpha, but showing emotion for his wife and kid. I was rooting for them the whole time and luckily we got the sweet epilogue. The reactions felt realistic and not overly rushed. All in all, I loved this book! Big fat 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 22, 2018
5++ FRIGGING STARS
Funny how a few days ago I was trying so hard to find books with this exact theme and then I got this ARC..Thank you so much VP for my ARC.
I am still reeling. So many emotions I can't even..
First off..Damn did this story hurt like a mf...It's so raw in emotions that you need to prepare yourselves that there will definitely be a crying fest...
Drake and Izabel are inseparable and completely in love..fast forward to that he can't wait and marries her and being a SEAL wife she understands the pain and sacrifices that come with it..But due to some issues..Drake can not return back and is declared dead..
Now ..this is where it gets really frigging ughhhh ..
When she finds out the news..things have already gotten to a level that the pain is multiplied by 10 and then...multiplied by a 100..
Finally as Drake is able to return to her,it ain't a sweet reunion..there is so much confusion,hurt and doubt..Oh my God..just read it..It's a mixture of every emotion I just loved these two so freaking much..Haaaa.
Perfect writing. Emotions packed to the brim and just plain amazing.
ARC provided by Victoria Paige for review
Funny how a few days ago I was trying so hard to find books with this exact theme and then I got this ARC..Thank you so much VP for my ARC.
I am still reeling. So many emotions I can't even..
First off..Damn did this story hurt like a mf...It's so raw in emotions that you need to prepare yourselves that there will definitely be a crying fest...
Drake and Izabel are inseparable and completely in love..fast forward to that he can't wait and marries her and being a SEAL wife she understands the pain and sacrifices that come with it..But due to some issues..Drake can not return back and is declared dead..
Now ..this is where it gets really frigging ughhhh ..
When she finds out the news..things have already gotten to a level that the pain is multiplied by 10 and then...multiplied by a 100..
Finally as Drake is able to return to her,it ain't a sweet reunion..there is so much confusion,hurt and doubt..Oh my God..just read it..It's a mixture of every emotion I just loved these two so freaking much..Haaaa.
Perfect writing. Emotions packed to the brim and just plain amazing.
ARC provided by Victoria Paige for review
November 11, 2018
Wow! Super intense, emotional roller coaster that I absolutely LOVED! I now want to delve deeper into this world and know everyone and their story!
I can say with absolute certainty that Isabel is on tough woman! To have the twists and turns that she had thrown at her and still be ok is a trust testament to a strong female! I also can not count out drake because wow! He definitely fought for his love and when he felt he couldn’t he leaned on others to help him and that shows just how much he loved his wife! The hardest part is going to others and he pulled out all the stops to win the heart of his wife!!
I can say with absolute certainty that Isabel is on tough woman! To have the twists and turns that she had thrown at her and still be ok is a trust testament to a strong female! I also can not count out drake because wow! He definitely fought for his love and when he felt he couldn’t he leaned on others to help him and that shows just how much he loved his wife! The hardest part is going to others and he pulled out all the stops to win the heart of his wife!!
November 21, 2018
VERY INTRIGUING AND FULL OF LOVE AND PAIN
A heartbreaking story of deep love of country and personal love; betrayal, pain and perseverance. A captivating tale that is so intense and gripping to a reader must be finished without stopping. Action, thrills and a suspenseful drama and complete with ongoing surprises.
A heartbreaking story of deep love of country and personal love; betrayal, pain and perseverance. A captivating tale that is so intense and gripping to a reader must be finished without stopping. Action, thrills and a suspenseful drama and complete with ongoing surprises.
October 29, 2023
The couple: Drake and Izabel
Romance genre: romantic suspense; back from the dead
Series: Special Forces: Operation Alpha
Length: 292 pages
Plot: Drake is a Navy SEAL (I think that was the branch - dozed a bit on the military stuff) and was almost killed during a mission. Because of that, people higher up than him convinced him to pretend to be dead. That means his wife believes he's dead. Drake was the love of Izabel's life, and now he's gone. But then three years later, he reappears, alive as can be. The couple will have to navigate a new reality, but everything is not as easy as Drake thinks it's going to be.
Commentary: Not gonna lie, this one was probably more like a 2-star for me. I gave it 3 because the writing was good, but I hated the "hero" of the story. He came back from the dead after three years, three years of lonely grieving by his wife. He got mad at her that she wasn't instantly welcoming him back into her life (after she found out how they tricked her and lied to her for all that time). Two days passed and he was all "if you can't forgive me maybe we should separate" and then when he realized he said something wrong, he thought "we're saying things we can't take back" - no buddy that's what you're doing, all by yourself. Then after another day, he brings in a psychiatrist, I guess to fix his wife. He even told her at one point:
Romance genre: romantic suspense; back from the dead
Series: Special Forces: Operation Alpha
Length: 292 pages
Plot: Drake is a Navy SEAL (I think that was the branch - dozed a bit on the military stuff) and was almost killed during a mission. Because of that, people higher up than him convinced him to pretend to be dead. That means his wife believes he's dead. Drake was the love of Izabel's life, and now he's gone. But then three years later, he reappears, alive as can be. The couple will have to navigate a new reality, but everything is not as easy as Drake thinks it's going to be.
Commentary: Not gonna lie, this one was probably more like a 2-star for me. I gave it 3 because the writing was good, but I hated the "hero" of the story. He came back from the dead after three years, three years of lonely grieving by his wife. He got mad at her that she wasn't instantly welcoming him back into her life (after she found out how they tricked her and lied to her for all that time). Two days passed and he was all "if you can't forgive me maybe we should separate" and then when he realized he said something wrong, he thought "we're saying things we can't take back" - no buddy that's what you're doing, all by yourself. Then after another day, he brings in a psychiatrist, I guess to fix his wife. He even told her at one point:
“Three years … I fought my way back to you, Izabel, but I’m drowning here. I want my wife back.” He raised his arm up and down in a hopeless gesture. “I don’t know what to do anymore. I can’t be the only one fighting. For us to stand a chance, you need to let go of this resentment for me, for what I’ve done. You need to fight for us, too.” Pain throbbed deep within the marrow of his bone. “I can’t walk away from you. It’s not possible. But this”—he pointed between them just as she had done earlier—“is destroying me.”I seriously wanted to hit something because he never fought as hard for his wife as he did for his country, and he had the nerve to put that on her, after she spent their whole marriage playing second fiddle to the military and accepting that, graciously. She had the right to take a few days, maybe weeks or months, to come to terms with what had happened and what her life was going to look like now:
Drake didn’t respond. He was beginning to resent Izabel and was afraid he might lash out at her.It's ridiculous that he thought he was going to slide back in there, no problem. He gave nothing to his wife emotionally, and physically he gave her a couple of bags of food and two orchids, and called that courting. He let everyone around him manipulate him and never once thought about fixing himself, instead concentrating on fixing his wife. He didn't even properly say sorry for what he did (or even "I wouldn't make that choice again" because you know he would and that means he's not really sorry!).
August 26, 2025
This was evidently revised to first person pov and not for the better. Heroine was written very stubborn, angry for no reason, just to introduce conflict and angst where there truly shouldn't have been any issues. This made for a very frustrating read. Authors need a better story than fake issues. If your beloved husband had gone through what this man had gone through, saved your life with a sacrifice of his own agency - would you not love him and help him in any way you could? This is what I mean by authorial manipulation, there would be no book if she hadn't acted like a wanker. Also, I find it very ironic that the trigger chicks love this one. She kissed another man and was starting to "move on" but if a male character had been written doing the same, the pitchforks would have pierced through the screen. Anyway, I've wasted too much time on this review. I read 50% and skimmed the rest, so I feel fully justified in rating. Especially since the author got paid via my reading pages on KU. YMMV, etc., etc.
November 12, 2018
Reconstructing their life is a hope not a given…
Though they try not to, SEAL’s wives always wonder if their husbands might not return from a mission, it takes an emotionally strong woman to live such a life. For the architect Izabel Maddox that dreaded day arrived. On that day she lost the love of her life, but she had a piece of him blossoming inside that kept her going until a twist of fate cost her that too. The double dose of grief was devastating, life moves on but people don’t always, immersion in work became her only lifeline. And then three years later the unthinkable happens, her husband returns. A ghost from the grave appears who expects her to be happy to see him but it’s complicated, such a betrayal is not easy to forgive.
A mission betrayed almost killed the Navy SEAL Drake Maddox, his injuries were severe and would take substantial time to heal from. A decision needed to be made as a terrorist group retaliated against the family of his commander. With Drake in no shape to protect his wife, the woman who is his everything, he makes the decision to fake his death until the time it is safe to return to her. He then joins a special clandestine group seeking retribution. It’s taken three years to demolish the terrorists responsible and now it’s time to reclaim his wife but perhaps he’s waited too long.
Can love be enough to repair the damage to Izabel and Drake’s relationship? Marriage is a partnership and one shut the other out, making a decision that would affect them both, leaving the other to suffer an immense enduring trauma alone. How does one forgive such an action? Neither had truly moved on from the other but the time apart changed them both. Drake wants one thing, his Izabel and she has to decide if she can accept him again, reconstructing their life is a hope not a given.
Life is a complicated journey, partnerships are composed of individuals who evolve with the passage of time and the trials and tribulations life throws at them. You want love to be enough, but love sans trust is subject to break. The heroine here has been to hell and back and she’s right to stand her ground after losing the trust that had been implicit in her marriage. Though the intellect can understand the rationale behind a decision born of desperation that doesn’t assuage the emotional impact born of that decision, and the fear that it generated. This was an emotional second chance military romance with underlying suspense and danger. Compassion is felt for the main protagonists, a gutsy, sassy heroine and a very determined, and protective hero. With a little assistance, love can be enough if you want it to be.
An advanced reading copy was obtained from the author.
4.5 stars
Though they try not to, SEAL’s wives always wonder if their husbands might not return from a mission, it takes an emotionally strong woman to live such a life. For the architect Izabel Maddox that dreaded day arrived. On that day she lost the love of her life, but she had a piece of him blossoming inside that kept her going until a twist of fate cost her that too. The double dose of grief was devastating, life moves on but people don’t always, immersion in work became her only lifeline. And then three years later the unthinkable happens, her husband returns. A ghost from the grave appears who expects her to be happy to see him but it’s complicated, such a betrayal is not easy to forgive.
A mission betrayed almost killed the Navy SEAL Drake Maddox, his injuries were severe and would take substantial time to heal from. A decision needed to be made as a terrorist group retaliated against the family of his commander. With Drake in no shape to protect his wife, the woman who is his everything, he makes the decision to fake his death until the time it is safe to return to her. He then joins a special clandestine group seeking retribution. It’s taken three years to demolish the terrorists responsible and now it’s time to reclaim his wife but perhaps he’s waited too long.
Can love be enough to repair the damage to Izabel and Drake’s relationship? Marriage is a partnership and one shut the other out, making a decision that would affect them both, leaving the other to suffer an immense enduring trauma alone. How does one forgive such an action? Neither had truly moved on from the other but the time apart changed them both. Drake wants one thing, his Izabel and she has to decide if she can accept him again, reconstructing their life is a hope not a given.
Life is a complicated journey, partnerships are composed of individuals who evolve with the passage of time and the trials and tribulations life throws at them. You want love to be enough, but love sans trust is subject to break. The heroine here has been to hell and back and she’s right to stand her ground after losing the trust that had been implicit in her marriage. Though the intellect can understand the rationale behind a decision born of desperation that doesn’t assuage the emotional impact born of that decision, and the fear that it generated. This was an emotional second chance military romance with underlying suspense and danger. Compassion is felt for the main protagonists, a gutsy, sassy heroine and a very determined, and protective hero. With a little assistance, love can be enough if you want it to be.
An advanced reading copy was obtained from the author.
4.5 stars
November 24, 2018
Victoria Paige is a new author for me and I just had to check out Reclaiming Izabel once I’d read the blurb.
Navy Seal Drake Maddox is reported as to being killed with the rest of the members of his special force team. His wife, Izabel, is devastated. She manages to carry on, she has too. Three years have past, she’s managed to become successful in her career but her grief still haunts her and she’s lost and alone inside.
Drake is in-fact, it turns out, very much alive. Badly injured, he had to fake his death. Now it’s time to return, how will she react, but can he complete his mission and keep Izabel safe.
A smoking hot read full of heart break, suspense and steamy love scenes. There meetings are tense but full of chemistry as they try to work out their relationship. Izabel is hurt again when she hears his story, can she forgive him. And Drake is desperately hoping Izabel will understand why took so long to return and take him back.
A great romance/suspense read that had me flipping the paging, racing to see what happened next. I loved it!
Navy Seal Drake Maddox is reported as to being killed with the rest of the members of his special force team. His wife, Izabel, is devastated. She manages to carry on, she has too. Three years have past, she’s managed to become successful in her career but her grief still haunts her and she’s lost and alone inside.
Drake is in-fact, it turns out, very much alive. Badly injured, he had to fake his death. Now it’s time to return, how will she react, but can he complete his mission and keep Izabel safe.
A smoking hot read full of heart break, suspense and steamy love scenes. There meetings are tense but full of chemistry as they try to work out their relationship. Izabel is hurt again when she hears his story, can she forgive him. And Drake is desperately hoping Izabel will understand why took so long to return and take him back.
A great romance/suspense read that had me flipping the paging, racing to see what happened next. I loved it!
October 29, 2018
This story pulled me out of a "same story, different name" book funk. Everything involving the missions and the teams were so well done and very thorough, you knew that the author had done some mad research...and I thank her for it. I enjoyed the story of Drake and Izabel Maddox very much, their love, their pain, their loss, and their recovery made for a great read. Secondary characters were well written with the possibilities of follow up stories on the horizon for at least one...hoping for more please. I started this book and finished within 2 days, it grabbed a hold of me and wouldn't let go. 5 stars!!
October 30, 2018
OMG what did I just read - had me hook, line and sinker right from the very first word. I literally could not put this down, not even to go and put dinner on!!! This has everything from fast paced action, to hot and steamy with plenty of twists and turns along the way, and yes there was even a requirement for a box of tissues to be on hand to mop up my tears as I got so invested in Drake and Izabel and what had gone in their lives.
November 11, 2018
I absolutely loved this book from Victoria Paige!! Once I started it, I was totally hooked and couldn't put it down. There are so many feels, that you will definitely need tissues at some point. My heart broke with Drake and Izabel because the writing is so well done, you feel every word. This one is a must read!!!
November 15, 2018
Wow this book really has it all. Ups and downs, twists and turns. The women in this book is one strong lady, what she had to go through and then to find out some of it was a lie...Just wow. The guy is this book is a strong military guy who you will see what and why he does what he did. I don't want to give it away I want you to ready it.
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