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ASSIGNMENT: Caribbean Nights #1
Claiming Her SEAL
In Navy SEAL Dex Riley’s world, women fall into two categories: those who don’t ask questions and those who wish they hadn’t. He hides the darkness in his past, content to run an island adventure company in the Caribbean with members of his former SEAL team—until resort guest Emma Richardson targets him for a vacation fling. Her fresh innocence and insistence on seeing hero material in Dex where none exists makes him yearn to be the man she deserves. And that terrifies Dex more than any war zone he's ever faced, until he discovers Emma has demons of her own…
ebook
First published February 15, 2016
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About the author
Kat Cantrell
367 books287 followersUSA Today bestselling author Kat Cantrell read her first Harlequin novel in third grade and has been scribbling in notebooks since she learned to spell. What else would she write but romance?
When she's not writing about characters on the journey to happily ever after, she can be found at a taekwondo tournament, watching Big Bang Theory or dancing with her kids to Duran Duran and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Kat, her husband and their two boys live in North Texas. She was the first Harlequin So You Think You Can Write winner and a former RWA® Golden Heart® finalist for best unpublished series contemporary manuscript.
When she's not writing about characters on the journey to happily ever after, she can be found at a taekwondo tournament, watching Big Bang Theory or dancing with her kids to Duran Duran and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Kat, her husband and their two boys live in North Texas. She was the first Harlequin So You Think You Can Write winner and a former RWA® Golden Heart® finalist for best unpublished series contemporary manuscript.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
March 29, 2016
4 - "Thanks for the memories." Stars!
Claiming Her SEAL, is the first book I have read by Kat Cantrell, it is also the first book in the new multi-Author ASSIGNMENT: Caribbean Nights series, with Zoe York and Anne Marsh contributing to the series going forwards. So you are basically getting hot SEALs, on hot Caribbean Islands, I cannot find anything wrong with that equation.
This book focuses on James ‘Dexter’ Riley, and the hot and sexy fling he has with vacationing Emma Richardson. You are also introduced to the rest of Dex’s ex SEAL brothers, and the reasons they are all in the Caribbean as the novel progresses. Aqueous Adventures is a company set up by six of them post military, and you soon work out that Dex isn’t the only one who bought back more than a few demons from their time in the Military, and I hope that as the series progresses we are given Charlie, Evan, Jace, Miles and Jack’s stories.
His demons didn’t mix well with polite company.
I really liked the dynamic with this one, although Emma has a few issues of her own that she is dealing with, the story was more about her pushing Dex to open up about the darker parts of his life, and how having been burnt by a woman in the past, that not everyone is going to judge his actions whilst in the Military the same way as his ex did.
"The only way to break free from the darkness is too kick your way to the surface."
But at the same time, Dex really helped Emma deal with the reasons she had traveled to Duchess island, the drama is there for them, but it doesn’t take over the story between this couple. I just found it really easy to get into and read, with plenty of sweet and sexy moments to keep it moving along. I wouldn’t say the plot holds many surprises but it’s really, well written and has set up the series perfectly, and I cannot wait to read more from this, and the other authors involved.
With books due for release from February until July, this series is going to be the perfect way to get yourself a bit of Caribbean sun, before the summer arrives!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Claiming Her SEAL, is the first book I have read by Kat Cantrell, it is also the first book in the new multi-Author ASSIGNMENT: Caribbean Nights series, with Zoe York and Anne Marsh contributing to the series going forwards. So you are basically getting hot SEALs, on hot Caribbean Islands, I cannot find anything wrong with that equation.
This book focuses on James ‘Dexter’ Riley, and the hot and sexy fling he has with vacationing Emma Richardson. You are also introduced to the rest of Dex’s ex SEAL brothers, and the reasons they are all in the Caribbean as the novel progresses. Aqueous Adventures is a company set up by six of them post military, and you soon work out that Dex isn’t the only one who bought back more than a few demons from their time in the Military, and I hope that as the series progresses we are given Charlie, Evan, Jace, Miles and Jack’s stories.
His demons didn’t mix well with polite company.
I really liked the dynamic with this one, although Emma has a few issues of her own that she is dealing with, the story was more about her pushing Dex to open up about the darker parts of his life, and how having been burnt by a woman in the past, that not everyone is going to judge his actions whilst in the Military the same way as his ex did.
"The only way to break free from the darkness is too kick your way to the surface."
But at the same time, Dex really helped Emma deal with the reasons she had traveled to Duchess island, the drama is there for them, but it doesn’t take over the story between this couple. I just found it really easy to get into and read, with plenty of sweet and sexy moments to keep it moving along. I wouldn’t say the plot holds many surprises but it’s really, well written and has set up the series perfectly, and I cannot wait to read more from this, and the other authors involved.
With books due for release from February until July, this series is going to be the perfect way to get yourself a bit of Caribbean sun, before the summer arrives!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
August 24, 2016
I'm going to keep it completely real with you, I only read this because the title has the word "Caribbean" it, and my dumb ass was has a thing for island fellas. Unfortunately for me, the story was a little unclear as to whether the male lead "Dex" is the FABM I had my fingers crossed for. Ambiguous racial background aside, there was something about this book that made it different from a lot of the other contemporary romances on the market.
To give you a gist of the story: Emma has a fear of the ocean because her ex-fiancee drove off a bridge with her strapped into the passenger seat when she tried to break up with him. Her life has been on standstill as she tries to overcome the emotional turmoil that remains after the traumatic incident. Emma and her best friend Rachel decide to holiday in the Caribbean in the hopes that this returns their lives to some semblance of normal. Then, there's Dex. Dex is ex-military, he's in the Caribbean working with his ex-team to restore a coral reef off the coast of Abaco Island, it’s an in-between project that helps fund his ex-team’s excursion company, Aqueous Adventures. Dex has PTSD from 3(?) tours in Iraq, where he was a sniper who has killed 68 targets, he has nightmares and basically hates himself. Dex and Emma meet and Dex is worried he's got too much "darkness" for Emma, to which Emma is basically all "U IDIOT I WILL DECIDE FOR MYSELF IF UR TOO MUCH I'M STRONG".
If you're thinking to yourself "so Vaneesha, how on earth is this different from other contemporaries?" here's your answer: The story itself isn't anything unique, it's the way the story was told. My biggest gripe with contemporaries is how one-dimensional the characters feel. I felt like Emma and Dex's voices were two-dimensional. Sometimes their conversations felt a little convoluted and were a little difficult to follow (narration was often interspersed through the dialogue). But I'm in favour of a little complexity over the flat dialogue of my recent reads.
I've said it before but I'm just going to say it again: I'm not usually a fan of military-related-shit. But I quite liked how Kat Cantrell approached the subject. As a decorated military sniper, Dex has plenty to say regarding how he was treated as a veteran; the general notion that veterans are 'respected' but people "had stars in their eyes about what it took to keep Americans free" and "turned into righteous zealots" when they realized his military position meant that he had actually killed people. I'm neither American nor ex-military, so I have no idea how realistic this portrayal is. But my assumption was that after the hype that surrounded American Sniper, most Americans would give decorated snipers a big pat on the back (I know, that's awfully judgmental of me). I liked that there were people who weren't afraid to tell Dex that "killing people in the name of war wasn’t the answer". I liked that this made Dex question why he served:
I look forward to diving (HA HA water puns - how fitting) into some of the other books in this series!
To give you a gist of the story: Emma has a fear of the ocean because her ex-fiancee drove off a bridge with her strapped into the passenger seat when she tried to break up with him. Her life has been on standstill as she tries to overcome the emotional turmoil that remains after the traumatic incident. Emma and her best friend Rachel decide to holiday in the Caribbean in the hopes that this returns their lives to some semblance of normal. Then, there's Dex. Dex is ex-military, he's in the Caribbean working with his ex-team to restore a coral reef off the coast of Abaco Island, it’s an in-between project that helps fund his ex-team’s excursion company, Aqueous Adventures. Dex has PTSD from 3(?) tours in Iraq, where he was a sniper who has killed 68 targets, he has nightmares and basically hates himself. Dex and Emma meet and Dex is worried he's got too much "darkness" for Emma, to which Emma is basically all "U IDIOT I WILL DECIDE FOR MYSELF IF UR TOO MUCH I'M STRONG".
If you're thinking to yourself "so Vaneesha, how on earth is this different from other contemporaries?" here's your answer: The story itself isn't anything unique, it's the way the story was told. My biggest gripe with contemporaries is how one-dimensional the characters feel. I felt like Emma and Dex's voices were two-dimensional. Sometimes their conversations felt a little convoluted and were a little difficult to follow (narration was often interspersed through the dialogue). But I'm in favour of a little complexity over the flat dialogue of my recent reads.
I've said it before but I'm just going to say it again: I'm not usually a fan of military-related-shit. But I quite liked how Kat Cantrell approached the subject. As a decorated military sniper, Dex has plenty to say regarding how he was treated as a veteran; the general notion that veterans are 'respected' but people "had stars in their eyes about what it took to keep Americans free" and "turned into righteous zealots" when they realized his military position meant that he had actually killed people. I'm neither American nor ex-military, so I have no idea how realistic this portrayal is. But my assumption was that after the hype that surrounded American Sniper, most Americans would give decorated snipers a big pat on the back (I know, that's awfully judgmental of me). I liked that there were people who weren't afraid to tell Dex that "killing people in the name of war wasn’t the answer". I liked that this made Dex question why he served:
"There’s so much evil in the world. I thought I was fighting it, and instead I became like them. Willing to kill because that guy in my sights is on the other side, so it’s okay to blow his head off."The point I'm trying to make, is that this whole characterization was food for thought, it gave me pause, it made me think. I appreciate that it encouraged me to look at things from a different perspective.
I look forward to diving (HA HA water puns - how fitting) into some of the other books in this series!
December 12, 2018
Pretty boring and predictable book.
Claiming Her Seal is one of those books with some dreamy ass abs on the cover. Which is what sucked me into it.. however, in this case, I didn't really like it. The characters were okay, mostly boring, and I just didn't really care about them.
Luckily, the smut/chemistry/sparks between Emma and Dex/James was amazing. However, when none of that was happening, well.. I quickly lost interest in the book. Emma was just annoying sometimes and frustrating to read about. Then there was Dex/James who was trying to be mysterious yet pushing her away from him because he was a "monster". Again, I just couldn't deal with these two.
Whether they were together, or not, I just wanted this book to be over. At one point I may or may not have blacked out while reading this book. No idea what the hell happened but eh, it was finally over. I was happy and saw the light. I probably wont dive into the next book of this series because I'd rather watch paint dry.
Claiming Her Seal is one of those books with some dreamy ass abs on the cover. Which is what sucked me into it.. however, in this case, I didn't really like it. The characters were okay, mostly boring, and I just didn't really care about them.
Luckily, the smut/chemistry/sparks between Emma and Dex/James was amazing. However, when none of that was happening, well.. I quickly lost interest in the book. Emma was just annoying sometimes and frustrating to read about. Then there was Dex/James who was trying to be mysterious yet pushing her away from him because he was a "monster". Again, I just couldn't deal with these two.
Whether they were together, or not, I just wanted this book to be over. At one point I may or may not have blacked out while reading this book. No idea what the hell happened but eh, it was finally over. I was happy and saw the light. I probably wont dive into the next book of this series because I'd rather watch paint dry.
May 3, 2016
I like the author's take on the heroine. She's strong yet vulnerable. Her determination to overcome her traumatic past was admirable. She's also bold, not afraid to go after the man she wanted.
Too bad, for the sake of drama, the author made her a dick. No, I don't mean she suddenly grew a penis or something. I mean, she chased, chased and chased Dex, pushed and pushed until he let her in. And when he finally fall for her, what did she do? She shut him out. Because in order to prove that she had moved past her fears, she had to live alone, without Dex. I know these people were scarred and it's not easy to made life changing decision, but I don't know, her attitude seemed silly and only lower my opinion of her. And for the sake of what? Some cheesy ending scene in the airport...
Too bad, for the sake of drama, the author made her a dick. No, I don't mean she suddenly grew a penis or something. I mean, she chased, chased and chased Dex, pushed and pushed until he let her in. And when he finally fall for her, what did she do? She shut him out. Because in order to prove that she had moved past her fears, she had to live alone, without Dex. I know these people were scarred and it's not easy to made life changing decision, but I don't know, her attitude seemed silly and only lower my opinion of her. And for the sake of what? Some cheesy ending scene in the airport...
November 14, 2017
DNF.
I usually don’t even bother rating books I don’t finish because I don’t want them showing up on my reading challenge, but this one I had to. Why? The main thing is how the entire situation is treated. Everything is done so wrong, Emma is so freaking pushy. Like, okay, we get it you think he’s hot. But he doesn’t want you, or doesn’t want to want you, so just leave him alone? No means no, no matter what gender? You may have some hero worship but seriously. Stop.
And she flat out thinks he’s a terrible person because of his job in the military for long enough that I got frustrated. Do I think snipers deserve hero worship? No, killing should never be something to brag about. But I’m not about to condemn someone for doing a job to protect their fellow soldiers. My step-brother is an ex-Marine and I know damn well that if at any point he’s been in a situation that required a sniper, I’d be sorry that lives were lost but grateful that my step-brother had protection. So maybe this is a little personal but it pissed me off that that was her initial attitude. Feel free to disagree but that’s not even the worst part for me.
The worst part was that her story could have been so much more but instead it’s reduced to “I was scared of the water but oh look a hot guy is here so I’m fine now” and I just... UGH. No. Hard, hard no from me.
I usually don’t even bother rating books I don’t finish because I don’t want them showing up on my reading challenge, but this one I had to. Why? The main thing is how the entire situation is treated. Everything is done so wrong, Emma is so freaking pushy. Like, okay, we get it you think he’s hot. But he doesn’t want you, or doesn’t want to want you, so just leave him alone? No means no, no matter what gender? You may have some hero worship but seriously. Stop.
And she flat out thinks he’s a terrible person because of his job in the military for long enough that I got frustrated. Do I think snipers deserve hero worship? No, killing should never be something to brag about. But I’m not about to condemn someone for doing a job to protect their fellow soldiers. My step-brother is an ex-Marine and I know damn well that if at any point he’s been in a situation that required a sniper, I’d be sorry that lives were lost but grateful that my step-brother had protection. So maybe this is a little personal but it pissed me off that that was her initial attitude. Feel free to disagree but that’s not even the worst part for me.
The worst part was that her story could have been so much more but instead it’s reduced to “I was scared of the water but oh look a hot guy is here so I’m fine now” and I just... UGH. No. Hard, hard no from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2016
The first in the multi-author, ASSIGNMENT: Caribbean Nights series, sees Kat Cantrell bring readers sun, sea, sex and SEAL's. You'll get no grumbles here with that combination.
Centralising around a group of former SEAL's who run Aqueous Adventures together in the Bahama's, we're introduced to a group of men who have each clearly brought more than just memories back from their deployment. Focussing on former sniper James 'Dex' Riley and resort guest Emma Richardson, Claiming her SEAL sees them embark on a quick, heated island romance, with an injection of heartfelt.
"His demons didn’t mix well with civilized company."
Dex does indeed have his demons and Emma isn't without her own, but as their fling progresses, both open up to one another. It followed a fairly predictable path, but this mattered not as the characters were likeable and the setting romantic. Kat Cantrell has opened the series strong and I'm excited to see what she, Zoe York and Anne Marsh have in store for us over the coming months.
Copy received courtesy of NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Centralising around a group of former SEAL's who run Aqueous Adventures together in the Bahama's, we're introduced to a group of men who have each clearly brought more than just memories back from their deployment. Focussing on former sniper James 'Dex' Riley and resort guest Emma Richardson, Claiming her SEAL sees them embark on a quick, heated island romance, with an injection of heartfelt.
"His demons didn’t mix well with civilized company."
Dex does indeed have his demons and Emma isn't without her own, but as their fling progresses, both open up to one another. It followed a fairly predictable path, but this mattered not as the characters were likeable and the setting romantic. Kat Cantrell has opened the series strong and I'm excited to see what she, Zoe York and Anne Marsh have in store for us over the coming months.
Copy received courtesy of NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
April 8, 2017
To be honest, initially I chose to read this book because it was free, but I've already grabbed the link to the next (paid) book. Yes, it's probably a little two dimensional, but it is exactly as it's supposed to be, a quick, sexy romance. Little things about the characters and plot irritated but not enough to complain and overall I'm looking forward to reading many more books from this series and this author.
June 6, 2017
This was such a good book. I felt for Dex throughout the entire book. Emma was a strong woman who had been through her own personal demons but together they were whole.
September 24, 2017
Loved it. Dex was a dick and Emma while fighting her own demons really didn't take any crap from Dex in her own naive way. Made for a nice little bit of tension between them. Loved how Emma made the water a "safe" place for Dex, yet it was her biggest fear.
Great series.
Great series.
February 25, 2016
First I need to say thank you to Zoe York for guiding me to this book!
This is a wonderful story about wounded retired Navy SEAL Dex Riley. Not all wounds show! Dex was the SEAL team’s sniper and a darn good one, he did not miss! This being said, thanks to an old girlfriend, it wounded his soul. He now lives on an island in the Caribbean with some of his fellow retired SEAL buddies running an island adventure business where he can hide from his “dark past”. Emma Richardson has come to the island with her best friend Rachel to get over her wounds as well. When Emma told her ex-fiancé it was over, he tried to take her with him to a “watery grave” by driving their car off a bridge into water. Emma has been deathly afraid of the ocean ever since. Dex first sees Emma when she is standing at the water’s edge battling her demons. He sees a “meathead” come up and wrap his arms around her. OK, she’s taken, or is she? Dex overhears her telling the meathead to “Let go”. Meathead did not listen and Dex comes to her rescue.
I love the characters in this book. Each having their own demons. Each is determined to help the other get over their demons. Will Emma be able to get Dex, or should I say James, Dex is his nickname, to see that he really is still James. You will need to read the book to figure out that statement.
Ms. Cantrell does a phenomenal job telling this story, defining her characters, and setting the scenes. She makes you feel as well as see her story in your mind as you are reading. This is a sign of a great writer.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: If you love SEAL romance, you will definitely love this story. It is the first in a new ASSIGNMENT: CARIBBEAN NIGHTS! SEAL series by some seriously stupendous authors.
I Loved this book. I know it is a work of fiction, but it is truth. When the men and women of this and any country make it back home they do so with wounds. Some are just not visible.
I was gifted with a copy of this book for my honest opinion. Thank you Kat and Zoe! I can’t wait to read the next in the series.
Go ahead and One-Click you will not be sorry!
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks
This is a wonderful story about wounded retired Navy SEAL Dex Riley. Not all wounds show! Dex was the SEAL team’s sniper and a darn good one, he did not miss! This being said, thanks to an old girlfriend, it wounded his soul. He now lives on an island in the Caribbean with some of his fellow retired SEAL buddies running an island adventure business where he can hide from his “dark past”. Emma Richardson has come to the island with her best friend Rachel to get over her wounds as well. When Emma told her ex-fiancé it was over, he tried to take her with him to a “watery grave” by driving their car off a bridge into water. Emma has been deathly afraid of the ocean ever since. Dex first sees Emma when she is standing at the water’s edge battling her demons. He sees a “meathead” come up and wrap his arms around her. OK, she’s taken, or is she? Dex overhears her telling the meathead to “Let go”. Meathead did not listen and Dex comes to her rescue.
I love the characters in this book. Each having their own demons. Each is determined to help the other get over their demons. Will Emma be able to get Dex, or should I say James, Dex is his nickname, to see that he really is still James. You will need to read the book to figure out that statement.
Ms. Cantrell does a phenomenal job telling this story, defining her characters, and setting the scenes. She makes you feel as well as see her story in your mind as you are reading. This is a sign of a great writer.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: If you love SEAL romance, you will definitely love this story. It is the first in a new ASSIGNMENT: CARIBBEAN NIGHTS! SEAL series by some seriously stupendous authors.
I Loved this book. I know it is a work of fiction, but it is truth. When the men and women of this and any country make it back home they do so with wounds. Some are just not visible.
I was gifted with a copy of this book for my honest opinion. Thank you Kat and Zoe! I can’t wait to read the next in the series.
Go ahead and One-Click you will not be sorry!
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks
March 12, 2016
Books, Coffee & Passion
Claiming Her SEAL is the first book in the new multi-Author ASSIGNMENT: Caribbean Nights series. Hot SEALS and strong-willed heroines are heating up the Caribbean and I won’t miss it!
Former Navy SEAL James “Dex” Riley runs an island adventure company in the Caribbean with members of his former SEAL team and he tries to keep his life simple. He hides the darkness in his past as a sniper but he’s still fighting the demons that haunt him.
Emma Richardson is on vacation with her best friend Rachel, trying to get over a traumatic experience and she’s battling her own demons but she’s also trying to take control of her life again.
Dex and Emma meet at the beach when Dex rescues Emma from unwanted attention. Their attraction is instant and while Emma decides that a fling with Dex is perfect for her, Dex thinks Emma is too innocent so he keeps trying to fight their chemistry.
The story starts slow but as Dex helps Emma to overcome her fears, Emma pushes Dex to open up about the darkness in his past and it’s an emotional ride. I loved their story although I wished that the book was a little longer. I also loved Rachel, Evan, Jace and Charlie.
Claiming Her SEAL is the perfect start to this series, I highly recommend it if you love a good contemporary romance featuring a damaged former SEAL and a strong heroine that share a deep emotional connection. Can’t wait to read the next in this series and I’m especially looking forward to reading Rachel and Evan’s story.
Before he could blink, she grabbed the hem of her dress and whipped it off over her head, chucking it behind her into the ocean. “You say I can only trust you in the water? Put your money where your mouth is, James Riley.
Claiming Her SEAL is the first book in the new multi-Author ASSIGNMENT: Caribbean Nights series. Hot SEALS and strong-willed heroines are heating up the Caribbean and I won’t miss it!
Former Navy SEAL James “Dex” Riley runs an island adventure company in the Caribbean with members of his former SEAL team and he tries to keep his life simple. He hides the darkness in his past as a sniper but he’s still fighting the demons that haunt him.
Emma Richardson is on vacation with her best friend Rachel, trying to get over a traumatic experience and she’s battling her own demons but she’s also trying to take control of her life again.
Dex and Emma meet at the beach when Dex rescues Emma from unwanted attention. Their attraction is instant and while Emma decides that a fling with Dex is perfect for her, Dex thinks Emma is too innocent so he keeps trying to fight their chemistry.
The story starts slow but as Dex helps Emma to overcome her fears, Emma pushes Dex to open up about the darkness in his past and it’s an emotional ride. I loved their story although I wished that the book was a little longer. I also loved Rachel, Evan, Jace and Charlie.
Claiming Her SEAL is the perfect start to this series, I highly recommend it if you love a good contemporary romance featuring a damaged former SEAL and a strong heroine that share a deep emotional connection. Can’t wait to read the next in this series and I’m especially looking forward to reading Rachel and Evan’s story.
March 19, 2018
I loved this book. Dex is a sniper whose kill record is quite impressive, but it haunts him. Emma is a determined, gutsy woman who isn’t going to let her tragic past get the better of her. Three months previously, her ex-fiancé tried to drown her after she broke off their engagement. While she managed to escape, he left her with a mortal fear of water. So she takes off to Duchess Island in the Caribbean with her best friend Rachel to try and reclaim her life.
Dex has formed a company with five of his SEAL brothers and they take resort guests snorkelling and parasailing while doing reef restoration as their business gets off the ground. He’s not looking for a relationship because he thinks the darkness inside him is too much for any woman to handle. Until he meets Emma, who’s determined to overcome her fear and rebuild her life.
Dex tries hard to fight his attraction to Emma, but she makes it clear she’s not going away just because he tells her to. He helps her overcome her fear of water and eventually gives in to his desire for her… and then instead of scratching the itch, it gets worse. He wants her, but knows he can’t have her. Try as he might to push her away, Emma won’t go. She tells him she’s only looking for a vacation fling, but when they finally start sleeping together, she knows that’s not true.
But she thinks he doesn’t want anything more, so she packs to leave the resort. On the tarmac, she decides she doesn’t want to go back to Boston after all…. and Dex doesn’t want her to, either. Which is why he’s at the airport to stop her boarding the plane.
I adored the two leads. They both had their demons but had the courage to step up and take what they really wanted, and were able to recognise that they made each other happy. Yay!
Dex has formed a company with five of his SEAL brothers and they take resort guests snorkelling and parasailing while doing reef restoration as their business gets off the ground. He’s not looking for a relationship because he thinks the darkness inside him is too much for any woman to handle. Until he meets Emma, who’s determined to overcome her fear and rebuild her life.
Dex tries hard to fight his attraction to Emma, but she makes it clear she’s not going away just because he tells her to. He helps her overcome her fear of water and eventually gives in to his desire for her… and then instead of scratching the itch, it gets worse. He wants her, but knows he can’t have her. Try as he might to push her away, Emma won’t go. She tells him she’s only looking for a vacation fling, but when they finally start sleeping together, she knows that’s not true.
But she thinks he doesn’t want anything more, so she packs to leave the resort. On the tarmac, she decides she doesn’t want to go back to Boston after all…. and Dex doesn’t want her to, either. Which is why he’s at the airport to stop her boarding the plane.
I adored the two leads. They both had their demons but had the courage to step up and take what they really wanted, and were able to recognise that they made each other happy. Yay!
March 1, 2016
This is a touching story about healing. Dex Riley is a former Navy SEAL who is a part owner of Island Adventures, an excursion company in the Caribbean that takes guests on water adventures at the local resort. Dex got his nickname Dexter for his confirmed kills as a sniper. He doesn’t think he deserves a relationship. Then he meets Emma Richardson in his tiny white bikini being harassed on the beach by a bully trying to escape her failed relationship from another bully.
This is not one of those relationships where two hot people fall into bed together and then realize they still want to be together. These are two people who are badly broken and have a lot of healing to do. They are both good people though and they each want to help the other. Sadly, they only have a week help each other. The compassion and patience they have for each other is very touching. You can’t help but want the best for both of them. I loved watching the way Dex was supportive of Emma as she tried to get over her fear of water after almost drowning at her ex-fiance’s hand. The way Emma sees the difference in Dex’s personality in the water and out of it and helps him find himself is almost heartbreaking.
Dex’s whole crew all seem to be pretty beat up emotionally after their time overseas but they are all great guys. They story does a great job of highlighting some of the trials that vets go through trying to be normal people again with families and jobs. There is so much to recommend about this book that it will appeal to all romance fans. I highly recommend this and can’t wait for the next in this series.
This is not one of those relationships where two hot people fall into bed together and then realize they still want to be together. These are two people who are badly broken and have a lot of healing to do. They are both good people though and they each want to help the other. Sadly, they only have a week help each other. The compassion and patience they have for each other is very touching. You can’t help but want the best for both of them. I loved watching the way Dex was supportive of Emma as she tried to get over her fear of water after almost drowning at her ex-fiance’s hand. The way Emma sees the difference in Dex’s personality in the water and out of it and helps him find himself is almost heartbreaking.
Dex’s whole crew all seem to be pretty beat up emotionally after their time overseas but they are all great guys. They story does a great job of highlighting some of the trials that vets go through trying to be normal people again with families and jobs. There is so much to recommend about this book that it will appeal to all romance fans. I highly recommend this and can’t wait for the next in this series.
February 23, 2016
I thought this one was great. Kat Cantrell is a new to me author but she definitely has a new fan. This is a new multi author series that takes place on a Caribbean Island where ex SEAL's have set up a new business. In this book we have Dex's story. A troubled soul who believes he's unworthy of anyone's love. That is until Emma Richardson shows up and shatters life as he knows it. She has demons of her own to face but he's inspired by her straight at it attitude. Quickly these two are tearing up the sheets and searing a place in each others heart.
Great start to the series and I can't wait for more! I definitely recommend this one.
Great start to the series and I can't wait for more! I definitely recommend this one.
February 21, 2016
Whenever we are lost we are always in need of a helping hand
Dex and Emma, ying and yang; passion and companionship. I enjoyed the start of their relationship, the game they played trying to avoid heartaches and hurting someone else. I loved the allure of the hunt and the trill of being caught even when the characters refused to recognize the fight is over.
I enjoyed their capitulation, their acceptance of each other flaws, because at the end sometimes 2 wrongs really make a right.
Dex and Emma, ying and yang; passion and companionship. I enjoyed the start of their relationship, the game they played trying to avoid heartaches and hurting someone else. I loved the allure of the hunt and the trill of being caught even when the characters refused to recognize the fight is over.
I enjoyed their capitulation, their acceptance of each other flaws, because at the end sometimes 2 wrongs really make a right.
April 16, 2018
I am very stingy with my 5 star reviews, but this story hit all the markers dead on. The characters come alive, the scenery is painted in oil, and the writing is clean and eloquent. The love scenes are exceptionally choreographed and executed. The suspense and drama top notch. This is the epitome of romance. Kudos to Cantrell!
February 26, 2016
LOVED this book. Dex and Emma are delightful. Couldn't stop reading.... Can't wait for the rest of the SEALS in this series.
April 15, 2018
This is a decent read. Well written, holds true to form and only made me groan a few times. Emma and Dex figure some personal issue out and in the process fall in love. What’s not to like?
September 12, 2017
First in the ASSIGNMENT: Caribbean Nights romance series revolving around the teammates who have all retired from the SEALs and have started a new business. The couple focus is on James "Dexter" Riley and Emma Richardson.
This was one of a batch of free books I got courtesy of an email I cannot find. Which is driving me nuts.
My Take
This was cute with a lovely story concept. BUT, Cantrell drove me nuts with her two main characters — using first-person dual protagonist point-of-view.
Yep, each perspective was so full of angst over their own shortcomings, and only Dex was capable of being honest...as he swung back and forth. Emma was the real idiot in this. Sure she had good reason for her fear, but the way she kept on and on at Dex. It started to feel like a rape of the poor guy. She's all about how strong she is, how she can deal, so of course the first thing she does is run away.
The worst of it all was ye olde trope of the character who claims it's just a fling. In fact, she insists it's just a fling over and over. So, naturally, it's so much more. It's his fault. It's her fault. She has to cut and run while she still can...whine, whine, whine...and she can't seem to figure out which way she's whining.
It didn't help either that the story was all tell. Yeah, Cantrell does have an interesting cast of male characters all set up for the rest of the series, but I'll hope there's more show and a lot more believability.
This was one of a batch of free books I got courtesy of an email I cannot find. Which is driving me nuts.
My Take
This was cute with a lovely story concept. BUT, Cantrell drove me nuts with her two main characters — using first-person dual protagonist point-of-view.
Yep, each perspective was so full of angst over their own shortcomings, and only Dex was capable of being honest...as he swung back and forth. Emma was the real idiot in this. Sure she had good reason for her fear, but the way she kept on and on at Dex. It started to feel like a rape of the poor guy. She's all about how strong she is, how she can deal, so of course the first thing she does is run away.
The worst of it all was ye olde trope of the character who claims it's just a fling. In fact, she insists it's just a fling over and over. So, naturally, it's so much more. It's his fault. It's her fault. She has to cut and run while she still can...whine, whine, whine...and she can't seem to figure out which way she's whining.
It didn't help either that the story was all tell. Yeah, Cantrell does have an interesting cast of male characters all set up for the rest of the series, but I'll hope there's more show and a lot more believability.
December 14, 2018
This book was okay. Thankfully it wasnt a long book because I think I would have died a little out of boredom between when Dex and Emma meet, and when they finally give in to each other. I really loved the friendship between Emma and Rachel. Rachel is a really good friend and is funny and witty on her own. I hope the next book with her in it is a good one. Dex suffers from some ptsd by the sounds of it, maybe not in the traditional way but definitely believes he is evil after his tours in Iraq. Emma has some ptsd going on with herself as her ex-fiance tried to drown her. This event obviously caused her to have a big fear of water. The two work together to get her over her fear and sparks fly between them. I wish there was more to the story however. Some parts were quite predictable. Overall it was an okay book.
February 27, 2018
Received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
Fair warning, this book borders on insta-love (and borders might be generous), but I enjoyed it. Normally, when things get hot and heavy in emotional department too quickly, I call BS, but there was something in Cantrell's writing that did not leave me feeling like that. Instead, I came to really root for Dex and Emma. He's a SEAL convinced that he's tainted goods and she's trying to heal after what can only be considered the worst break up ever. He comes to her rescue and they're instantly drawn to one another. Sure, he plays hard to get for a while, convinced that he's going to ruin her with his darkness, but eventually, their connection is too hard for him to resist.
Overall, the love scenes were hot, but it was their conversations and the emotions that really got to me. At first, I was worried that she was setting herself up to take his abuse as he tried to scare her off, but the more I read, the more it made sense.
And I'm going to need to know more about these SEALs...they seem like they're all just waiting to fall for the right woman.
Fair warning, this book borders on insta-love (and borders might be generous), but I enjoyed it. Normally, when things get hot and heavy in emotional department too quickly, I call BS, but there was something in Cantrell's writing that did not leave me feeling like that. Instead, I came to really root for Dex and Emma. He's a SEAL convinced that he's tainted goods and she's trying to heal after what can only be considered the worst break up ever. He comes to her rescue and they're instantly drawn to one another. Sure, he plays hard to get for a while, convinced that he's going to ruin her with his darkness, but eventually, their connection is too hard for him to resist.
Overall, the love scenes were hot, but it was their conversations and the emotions that really got to me. At first, I was worried that she was setting herself up to take his abuse as he tried to scare her off, but the more I read, the more it made sense.
And I'm going to need to know more about these SEALs...they seem like they're all just waiting to fall for the right woman.
November 26, 2019
Brilliant
Couldn't put it down superb well written great characters and story line hooked from the start will read more from this author
Couldn't put it down superb well written great characters and story line hooked from the start will read more from this author
August 19, 2017
Really liked this story. Strong, hurting male and a strong hurt female coming together and healing each other. What's not to like?
November 14, 2019
Good book. several former military guys decide to start dive business in Bahamas. one meets a lady trying to get over what her ex did to her psyche. she and friend decide to stay.
June 29, 2017
Good, solid story and start of a series
I loved this story of two damaged people redeemed by each other. The setting is beautiful, the characters real. Emma struggles to overcome her fear of water and finds strength in Dex. Dex finds he can open himself to Emma. Learning about themselves and what they can be together leads to their happy ever after.
I loved this story of two damaged people redeemed by each other. The setting is beautiful, the characters real. Emma struggles to overcome her fear of water and finds strength in Dex. Dex finds he can open himself to Emma. Learning about themselves and what they can be together leads to their happy ever after.
December 14, 2017
Who would have ever thought that by saving a woman from a brute who didn't know what NO meant could have been the best thing to ever happen to a guy. When Dex helped Emma get rid of an unwanted groper, little did he know what he was getting himself into. All Emma wanted was to move forward in her life, but it would seem that she wasn't going to be able to do that on her own, much to her dismay. But when Dex literally walks into her life, she knows it's about to change. The only question now would be whether or not it will be for the better...or worse.
Love, love love this story. Looking forward to the next. This author has taken a couple of hard issues and put them into a story that not only gives hope, but shows us that we are never alone in the world, even though we often feel like we are. A beautiful story that will warm your heart, even when it makes you want to stand up and fight!
Love, love love this story. Looking forward to the next. This author has taken a couple of hard issues and put them into a story that not only gives hope, but shows us that we are never alone in the world, even though we often feel like we are. A beautiful story that will warm your heart, even when it makes you want to stand up and fight!
May 25, 2018
Wonderful
This book came across my plate as an amazon freebie and I love military type romances. This was a sweet romance, Dex and Emma are so good together. A must read for sure.
This book came across my plate as an amazon freebie and I love military type romances. This was a sweet romance, Dex and Emma are so good together. A must read for sure.
March 8, 2016
Title: Claiming Her Seal - Assignment Caribbean Nights 1
Author: Kat Cantrell
Published: 2-19-2016
Publisher: Alpe D'Huez Press/ Kat Cantrell
Pages: 149
Genre: Romance
Sub Genre: Women's Fiction, Military
ISBN: 9947446923130
ASIN: B01BU7PHA4
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
.
Dex Riley and his former SEAL team members have had enough and left their former lives and the nightmare world of war that haunts them. Together they have started an Island Adventure Company. They hope it will begin to restore their souls and rebuild their sanity. Dex has decided to only get involved with women who know the score. No innocents for with dreams of hearts and flowers as he no longer believes in love. Emma Richardson has come to the Caribbean with her friend Rachel to heal after being nearly killed by someone she loved and trusted. She has decided to treat herself to a vacation fling and has decided Dex will do nicely. Dex sees beyond Emma's brazen actions to the hurt innocent women beneath and declares her off limits. Will their shared attraction overcome their reluctance and heal them both or destroy them forever.
Anyone who knows someone who has dealt with the horrors of war or traumatic events knows the scars run deep and that time, love and patience are the only answers. Kat Cantrell shows us that just because the souls and heart of a person are damaged that you cannot love and live or even trust again. The story moves quickly and so smoothly you will soon find yourself sighing as you turn the last page. I look forward to reading more of this series about men who deserve a happy and loving future. Revealing Her Seal, will be out in April 2016,
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/claim...
Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/The-Reading-...#
Author: Kat Cantrell
Published: 2-19-2016
Publisher: Alpe D'Huez Press/ Kat Cantrell
Pages: 149
Genre: Romance
Sub Genre: Women's Fiction, Military
ISBN: 9947446923130
ASIN: B01BU7PHA4
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
.
Dex Riley and his former SEAL team members have had enough and left their former lives and the nightmare world of war that haunts them. Together they have started an Island Adventure Company. They hope it will begin to restore their souls and rebuild their sanity. Dex has decided to only get involved with women who know the score. No innocents for with dreams of hearts and flowers as he no longer believes in love. Emma Richardson has come to the Caribbean with her friend Rachel to heal after being nearly killed by someone she loved and trusted. She has decided to treat herself to a vacation fling and has decided Dex will do nicely. Dex sees beyond Emma's brazen actions to the hurt innocent women beneath and declares her off limits. Will their shared attraction overcome their reluctance and heal them both or destroy them forever.
Anyone who knows someone who has dealt with the horrors of war or traumatic events knows the scars run deep and that time, love and patience are the only answers. Kat Cantrell shows us that just because the souls and heart of a person are damaged that you cannot love and live or even trust again. The story moves quickly and so smoothly you will soon find yourself sighing as you turn the last page. I look forward to reading more of this series about men who deserve a happy and loving future. Revealing Her Seal, will be out in April 2016,
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/claim...
Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/The-Reading-...#
February 16, 2016
4 1/2 STARS!
A team of former SEAL's getting together to run a business in the Caribbean makes for a sexy, hot read! It's a fast and fun story with a super cute connection between these two even though they deal with a lot of seriousness in their conversations. The only thing that would have made me enjoy it even slightly more is a little more of a background behind them leaving the Navy and settling there with their business and their side jobs. I really enjoyed getting to know Dex and Emma and can't wait to continue with Evan and Rachel's story next!
Emma Richardson is trying to get over a traumatic experience, so she decides to get away from it all and go on vacation with her best friend Rachel. Not long after arriving, she runs into Dex on the beach and strikes up a flirtation.
Dex Riley escaped the real world of the States after his several tours with his SEAL team was over and now is running an island adventure company with several of the guys. He's attracted to Emma and but isn't looking for the type of straight and narrow type of gal that he thinks she is. When he finds out she has a history of her own, will he decide to throw caution to the wind and have that fling?
** Received free in exchange for an honest review **
A team of former SEAL's getting together to run a business in the Caribbean makes for a sexy, hot read! It's a fast and fun story with a super cute connection between these two even though they deal with a lot of seriousness in their conversations. The only thing that would have made me enjoy it even slightly more is a little more of a background behind them leaving the Navy and settling there with their business and their side jobs. I really enjoyed getting to know Dex and Emma and can't wait to continue with Evan and Rachel's story next!
Emma Richardson is trying to get over a traumatic experience, so she decides to get away from it all and go on vacation with her best friend Rachel. Not long after arriving, she runs into Dex on the beach and strikes up a flirtation.
Dex Riley escaped the real world of the States after his several tours with his SEAL team was over and now is running an island adventure company with several of the guys. He's attracted to Emma and but isn't looking for the type of straight and narrow type of gal that he thinks she is. When he finds out she has a history of her own, will he decide to throw caution to the wind and have that fling?
** Received free in exchange for an honest review **
February 27, 2016
Dex was a Navy Seal, his job as the team sniper......take out terrorist and keep his brother-in-arms alive. In doing so, he killed a lot of men. Dex thinks he's a cold blood killer and is constantly fighting his demons. He's given up on wanting a normal life.....what women wants a man with a dark soul and blood on his hands. Dex and five of his troubled Seal brother's start their own business on a Caribbean Island. All Dex needs in his life…….his brothers, a purpose, and the ocean, for the water soothes his wounded soul.
When Emma tried to end her relationship with her fiancé, he tried to kill her. Since her near death by drowning, Emma is terrified of water. She is determined to get her life back, so she takes a vacation to a Caribbean Island. When Emma is man handled by an unknown guy, a sexy white knight comes to her rescue. Emma falls for the sexy standoffish Dex. She convinces him to help her get over her fear of water, and in return she helps to free him of his demons.
The story started out a little slow, but it picks up midway. It’s a sweet story of two people teaching each other to learn how to heal their tortured souls. I look forward to reading the other Seal’s stories. Especially, “Ruined by a Seal.”
When Emma tried to end her relationship with her fiancé, he tried to kill her. Since her near death by drowning, Emma is terrified of water. She is determined to get her life back, so she takes a vacation to a Caribbean Island. When Emma is man handled by an unknown guy, a sexy white knight comes to her rescue. Emma falls for the sexy standoffish Dex. She convinces him to help her get over her fear of water, and in return she helps to free him of his demons.
The story started out a little slow, but it picks up midway. It’s a sweet story of two people teaching each other to learn how to heal their tortured souls. I look forward to reading the other Seal’s stories. Especially, “Ruined by a Seal.”
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