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Texas Navy SEALs #2
A SEAL Always Wins
A contemporary cowboy romance that Elite Navy SEAL Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez is trained to expect the unexpected, but his growing feelings for brilliant horse trainer Elena Garcia catch him completely off guard. Phantom needs Elena's help to maintain his SEAL team's cover―more critical than ever now that they've identified a conspiracy of mysterious power brokers in both Mexico and the U.S. But how can he get her to train the ranch's quarter horses without revealing who he really is? And without revealing his need for this woman whose indomitable spirit has captured his heart…
344 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 25, 2020
About the author
Holly Castillo
10 books23 followersHolly grew up spending many lazy summer days racing her horses bareback in the Texas sun. But whenever Holly wasn't riding her horses or competing in horse shows, she was found with pen and paper in hand, writing out romantic love stories about Texas Heroes.
Today, Holly lives in a small community just south of San Antonio, with her husband and two children. On the family's ranch, surrounded by cattle during the day and hearing the howl of coyotes by night, Holly has endless inspiration for her writing. Her Texas Legacy series follows the adventures of a family during the Texas Revolution and subsequent years, and her new Romantic Suspense Series, Texas Navy SEALs, launches in July, 2019.
Today, Holly lives in a small community just south of San Antonio, with her husband and two children. On the family's ranch, surrounded by cattle during the day and hearing the howl of coyotes by night, Holly has endless inspiration for her writing. Her Texas Legacy series follows the adventures of a family during the Texas Revolution and subsequent years, and her new Romantic Suspense Series, Texas Navy SEALs, launches in July, 2019.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 18, 2020
A SEAL ALWAYS WINS by Holly Castillo is the second book in the Texas Navy Seals romantic suspense series. The two protagonists are Navy SEAL Enrique (Phantom) Ramirez and horse trainer Elena Garcia. Phantom and his team are working undercover as quarter horse ranch owners and decide they need Elena’s help to maintain cover and hopefully learn information that will help them with their mission.
The story line is set in south Texas and in Mexico. The characters are compelling and definitely someone you can root for. They are strong and their goals are clear and believable. The supporting characters are well-rounded and enhance the story. The stakes were high as the tension built up to the conclusion. It had plenty of suspense and did not have the instant love that is so common in books. It also had some deep themes running through it including sexual harassment, drug and human trafficking, corruption, friendship and much more.
Overall, the plot was intriguing and contemporary. I was immediately interested in this novel. The prose was well-written and engrossing. The story is gripping, paced well, and well worth reading. I recommend it to those that enjoy romantic suspense novels and I am looking forward to reading book one in the series.
Thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and Holly Castillo for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
The story line is set in south Texas and in Mexico. The characters are compelling and definitely someone you can root for. They are strong and their goals are clear and believable. The supporting characters are well-rounded and enhance the story. The stakes were high as the tension built up to the conclusion. It had plenty of suspense and did not have the instant love that is so common in books. It also had some deep themes running through it including sexual harassment, drug and human trafficking, corruption, friendship and much more.
Overall, the plot was intriguing and contemporary. I was immediately interested in this novel. The prose was well-written and engrossing. The story is gripping, paced well, and well worth reading. I recommend it to those that enjoy romantic suspense novels and I am looking forward to reading book one in the series.
Thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and Holly Castillo for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
February 8, 2020
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review.
This is the second book in the Texas Navy SEALS series and it picks up where book one left off. In this book, we get a closer look at Phantom an Elena. In the first book, Phantom ran Elena off the ranch because he said they didn't need a horse trainer because he could do it. But now they see that they do need her. The real reason he didn't want her around was that he was attracted to her and she might distract him from his real job which was finding out who was behind the human trafficking in the town.
Elena is the town's horse trainer and she has been doing it since she came to town right after graduating college. She is best friends with Anya. She couldn't believe that Phantom fired her and now he wants her back. But the feelings he envokes inside her scares her a little. When Phantom touches her though she is affected in a good way.
When Elena is at one of the farms working with a few horses, she has to check on an invoice. She goes into the office and opens the computer and finds some horrifying information. When she leaves and goes home to run, someone follows her and tries to attack her. She has nowhere to run. When Phantom calls her and she tells him what happened, he tells her to come to his ranch.
Can the SEAL team get the bad guys before it is too late? Will Elena forgive Phantom for not telling her who he Realy is?
I really like this series, it is filled with suspense, intrigue and a storyline to keep you interested. If you like romantic suspense, then this series is for you. I can't wait to see which SEAL book 3 will be about.
This is the second book in the Texas Navy SEALS series and it picks up where book one left off. In this book, we get a closer look at Phantom an Elena. In the first book, Phantom ran Elena off the ranch because he said they didn't need a horse trainer because he could do it. But now they see that they do need her. The real reason he didn't want her around was that he was attracted to her and she might distract him from his real job which was finding out who was behind the human trafficking in the town.
Elena is the town's horse trainer and she has been doing it since she came to town right after graduating college. She is best friends with Anya. She couldn't believe that Phantom fired her and now he wants her back. But the feelings he envokes inside her scares her a little. When Phantom touches her though she is affected in a good way.
When Elena is at one of the farms working with a few horses, she has to check on an invoice. She goes into the office and opens the computer and finds some horrifying information. When she leaves and goes home to run, someone follows her and tries to attack her. She has nowhere to run. When Phantom calls her and she tells him what happened, he tells her to come to his ranch.
Can the SEAL team get the bad guys before it is too late? Will Elena forgive Phantom for not telling her who he Realy is?
I really like this series, it is filled with suspense, intrigue and a storyline to keep you interested. If you like romantic suspense, then this series is for you. I can't wait to see which SEAL book 3 will be about.
February 16, 2020
I didn't read the first book but it didn't take me long to know what is going on and who the characters were. The story was good. He is an undercover seal working on a ranch with his team and she is a horse trainer and shows the horses and is in the top of her field. There is an attraction between the two but she has a past that puts some distance between the two. The book was a bit difficult to get drawn into but I enjoyed it.
January 26, 2020
A SEAL Always Wins (Texas Navy SEALs #2) by Holly Castillo
4 stars
M/F Mystery Romance
Triggers: Human Trafficking
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This is the second book in the series and I would recommend that you read them in order. Book 2 picks up with the same characters and issues that book 1 had.
Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez knows his mission. To figure out what is going on in the sleepy town where he and his SEAL buddies have been stationed for the time being. There is some shady business happening and they are the only people who can stop it.
Elena is amazing with horses. She trains them for show. When she is fired from her most lucrative position after new owners come in, she’s a little put out. Now, she’s having to drive much further for her job and she’s still having to deal with a very pushy owner. Elena is kind and a great character. She is feisty when she needs to be, but she is also calm and patient.
Phantom knows that he’s there for a job, but he can’t help his attraction to Elena. When he requests that she help him learn the show business, it’s with some reluctance that she agrees. But, as they train and travel together, neither can deny that they have a strong attraction.
As the mystery in their sleepy town increases, Elena will unwittingly be a major part of helping to uncover what truly is happening in their town. With danger coming from unknown directions, Phantom vows to keep Elena safe.
I found that their relationship was very realistic. Despite Phantom’s cover, he was able to show Elena very real parts of himself. I also really liked Elena for Phantom. They complimented each other well. I am looking forward to seeing what comes next.
4 stars
M/F Mystery Romance
Triggers: Human Trafficking
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This is the second book in the series and I would recommend that you read them in order. Book 2 picks up with the same characters and issues that book 1 had.
Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez knows his mission. To figure out what is going on in the sleepy town where he and his SEAL buddies have been stationed for the time being. There is some shady business happening and they are the only people who can stop it.
Elena is amazing with horses. She trains them for show. When she is fired from her most lucrative position after new owners come in, she’s a little put out. Now, she’s having to drive much further for her job and she’s still having to deal with a very pushy owner. Elena is kind and a great character. She is feisty when she needs to be, but she is also calm and patient.
Phantom knows that he’s there for a job, but he can’t help his attraction to Elena. When he requests that she help him learn the show business, it’s with some reluctance that she agrees. But, as they train and travel together, neither can deny that they have a strong attraction.
As the mystery in their sleepy town increases, Elena will unwittingly be a major part of helping to uncover what truly is happening in their town. With danger coming from unknown directions, Phantom vows to keep Elena safe.
I found that their relationship was very realistic. Despite Phantom’s cover, he was able to show Elena very real parts of himself. I also really liked Elena for Phantom. They complimented each other well. I am looking forward to seeing what comes next.
February 27, 2020
A Seal Always Wins by Holly Castillo is a SEAL romance with an actual in depth story about the SEAL's mission. Phantom (Enrique) got his nickname honestly. He moves without being heard. Sometimes this is a good thing, sometimes not. Elena Garcia is the best Quarter Horseshow trainer around. When Phantom and his mates bought the ranch to use as an undercover base, he though his experience with racehorses was enough so he let Elena go. He figured it out and not has to convince her to come and work for them again. That includes her training him to show horses as well. As he is walked around after his time in the arena her overhears a suspicious conversation that takes him back to the ranch and reporting that he believes there is a human trafficking setup nearby and they will be moving people soon. Elena, in order to make ends meet, works with horses at several ranches, including one owned by a man named Jonas who is twice her age but won't take no for an answer. She plans to resign as soon as she can afford to but before that happens she accidentally stumbles upon the trafficking operation. She knows she has to get away, but he is quicker, sending a shooter to her apartment. Thank goodness her landlords were gone for the weekend. She doesn't know where to go except to Phantom. Even not knowing his background and involvement, she knows she'll be safe with him.
This is a terrific romance as well as a great SEAL thriller. There is even some Quarter Horse information thrown in for balance. Elena and Phantom are both terrific characters. Phantom has an overblown send of right and wrong and for a while thinks it's wrong to get involved with Elena because of the danger with his job. Eventually he can't resist. Elena is willing to give him his space. When he says he isn't interested, she backs off. She is independent and clever. She is intent upon growing her business and her reputation as a trainer. They make a great couple. The other characters in the story are what they need to be, nothing more, nothing less. It is a good read. I recommend it.
I received a free ARC of A Seal Always Wins from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own.
This is a terrific romance as well as a great SEAL thriller. There is even some Quarter Horse information thrown in for balance. Elena and Phantom are both terrific characters. Phantom has an overblown send of right and wrong and for a while thinks it's wrong to get involved with Elena because of the danger with his job. Eventually he can't resist. Elena is willing to give him his space. When he says he isn't interested, she backs off. She is independent and clever. She is intent upon growing her business and her reputation as a trainer. They make a great couple. The other characters in the story are what they need to be, nothing more, nothing less. It is a good read. I recommend it.
I received a free ARC of A Seal Always Wins from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own.
February 22, 2020
A SEAL Always Wins is the second book in Holly Castillo’s new Texas Navy SEAL Series. This is an action-packed military romantic suspense novel with no cheating and a happily ever after. This book can be read as a standalone, however, reading it in order will give the reader a better appreciation for the characters and the series itself.
Elite Navy SEAL Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez is part of a group that have been tasked to work undercover on a Texas cattle ranch in order to investigate various large scale criminal activities in the areas near the US-Mexican border. He needs horse trainer Elena Garcia to maintain his SEAL team's cover especially now that they’ve identified a conspiracy of mysterious power brokers in both Mexico and the U.S. But the intense chemistry between them and Phantom’s growing feelings for the beautiful Elena make it difficult to stay focused on the job. When everything comes to ahead, will Phantom be able to keep Elena safe and save the day? Or will she be lost to him forever? Read it and find out!
Another great book from Castillo. She is a phenomenal writer, who’s story telling ability keeps you hanging as you go page by page. Castillo has created a storyline and a cast of characters that draws you in and leave you craving more. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy received from Netgalley.
Elite Navy SEAL Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez is part of a group that have been tasked to work undercover on a Texas cattle ranch in order to investigate various large scale criminal activities in the areas near the US-Mexican border. He needs horse trainer Elena Garcia to maintain his SEAL team's cover especially now that they’ve identified a conspiracy of mysterious power brokers in both Mexico and the U.S. But the intense chemistry between them and Phantom’s growing feelings for the beautiful Elena make it difficult to stay focused on the job. When everything comes to ahead, will Phantom be able to keep Elena safe and save the day? Or will she be lost to him forever? Read it and find out!
Another great book from Castillo. She is a phenomenal writer, who’s story telling ability keeps you hanging as you go page by page. Castillo has created a storyline and a cast of characters that draws you in and leave you craving more. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy received from Netgalley.
February 26, 2020
A SEAL Always Wins by Holly Castillo is the second book in the Texas Navy SEALS. This is a group of SEALS working undercover along the Texas – Mexico border. The idea is unique because they are operating within the US. Usually their role is protecting those in the US from forces outside. This series walks near that line of division but does not cross it because of the danger coming from across the US border. This is then a believable and realistic story that hits on some troubling global issues such as human trafficking.
Within this overall theme of the ongoing fight against evil is a well developed love story between Navy SEAL Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez and Elena Garcia, a horse trainer. His undercover work has brought. The struggle between duty to country and the desires of his heart becomes a major focus. This well told story has a slow burn with the conflicting emotional struggles that make this a compelling read. There is danger, suspense and mystery that is intricate to the overall plot, making this even more compelling. A sure fire exciting story.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Within this overall theme of the ongoing fight against evil is a well developed love story between Navy SEAL Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez and Elena Garcia, a horse trainer. His undercover work has brought. The struggle between duty to country and the desires of his heart becomes a major focus. This well told story has a slow burn with the conflicting emotional struggles that make this a compelling read. There is danger, suspense and mystery that is intricate to the overall plot, making this even more compelling. A sure fire exciting story.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 8, 2020
Elite Navy SEAL Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez is trained to expect the unexpected, but his growing feelings for brilliant horse trainer Elena Garcia catch him completely off guard. Phantom needs Elena's help to maintain his SEAL team's cover—more critical than ever now that they've identified a conspiracy of mysterious power brokers in both Mexico and the U.S. But how can he get her to train the ranch's quarter horses without revealing who he really is? And without revealing his need for this woman whose indomitable spirit has captured his heart.
This was a really great story. I loved both Enrique and Elena. I loved meeting all of the other characters as well. The story moved quickly and kept my total attention. I look forward to reading more from this author. I highly recommend.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
This was a really great story. I loved both Enrique and Elena. I loved meeting all of the other characters as well. The story moved quickly and kept my total attention. I look forward to reading more from this author. I highly recommend.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
February 24, 2020
An exciting sequel to the first book in this series. Navy SEAL Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez had taken over the training of the ranch horses when he realized, too late, that letting horse trainer Elena Garcia go was a mistake. When he convinces her to return to the Bent Horseshoe Ranch, he begins to have feelings for her. He knows that she has been hurt before and slowly convinces her to trust him. After he and his group of undercover SEALs, masquerading as ranchers, broke up a drug ring Phantom hoped that their troubles were over. A whisper of another possible threat arises and this time Elena may be in danger. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
January 17, 2020
I received this copy from Netgalley for an honest review. The opinions are my own.
I love Phantom and Elena as a couple. Phantom is a good mix of an alpha male and caring man. Elena, too, is a strong character and a good fit for Phantom. The author does an excellent job of developing the story. I enjoyed the interaction between the characters and tension as they work things out. This is a very well-written book and definitely worth reading. My only issue is that the conflicts in the story are common to this genre. However, that in no way takes away from the pleasure of the book. I enjoyed this enough that, even with that one flaw, I will buy the book as well.
I love Phantom and Elena as a couple. Phantom is a good mix of an alpha male and caring man. Elena, too, is a strong character and a good fit for Phantom. The author does an excellent job of developing the story. I enjoyed the interaction between the characters and tension as they work things out. This is a very well-written book and definitely worth reading. My only issue is that the conflicts in the story are common to this genre. However, that in no way takes away from the pleasure of the book. I enjoyed this enough that, even with that one flaw, I will buy the book as well.
February 3, 2020
A seal always wins is a story about a group of men who are undercover as ranchers in order to keep the border safe. In order to accomplish their cover they need the help of Elena who is essentially a horse whisper in and out of the ring.
This was a book that will keep your attention from beginning to end. The characters had depth and the story line was strong. while it is book 2 in the series, I found it easy to get "caught up" early in the book and wasn't having a lot of holes that distracted from the current book. I look forward to seeing the series continue as well as going back and reading book one.
I voluntarily received an advance review copy of this novel via Netgalley and I am leaving an honest and unbiased review. I have no affiliation to this author.
This was a book that will keep your attention from beginning to end. The characters had depth and the story line was strong. while it is book 2 in the series, I found it easy to get "caught up" early in the book and wasn't having a lot of holes that distracted from the current book. I look forward to seeing the series continue as well as going back and reading book one.
I voluntarily received an advance review copy of this novel via Netgalley and I am leaving an honest and unbiased review. I have no affiliation to this author.
February 26, 2020
This author is one of the very authors who I will always download their books - I don't need to sample/try them before downloading them because I know I am going to read another 5* book. What a great story full of tension, suspense and action from start to finish not forgetting the chemistry between Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez and Elena Garcia. This is a well written, addictive and intriguing book which I thoroughly enjoyed. Couldn’t put it down! Read on through the day and Into the early hours as just had to keep going! Can’t wait for the next one! Happy reading!!
March 3, 2020
I didn't read the first book before reading this one and fully understood everything that happened. This is the first book by this author that I have read and it certainly won't be the last! This one is about Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez and Elena Garcia. Phantom needs Elena to help his team keep his cover but what he never expects is how he is coming to feel about her. But now he not only has to do his job but he has to keep the woman who is slowly becoming his everything safe.
I really liked this one! Phantom and Elena have this connection and chemistry right from the start and it just draws you right in. There is plenty of suspense and action that makes you want to know more. There is steam, and some snarkiness thrown in-which I love by the way! And the story itself just drew me in and kept me reading, along with going back and reading the first book because I wanted to know more! Can't wait for the next one!
I really liked this one! Phantom and Elena have this connection and chemistry right from the start and it just draws you right in. There is plenty of suspense and action that makes you want to know more. There is steam, and some snarkiness thrown in-which I love by the way! And the story itself just drew me in and kept me reading, along with going back and reading the first book because I wanted to know more! Can't wait for the next one!
March 19, 2020
This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.
I really liked the idea for this series as we have a group of SEALS posing as cowboys at the Texas border to try and catch criminals. The first book they took down the drug cartel and this book, they find a human trafficking ring.
Elena was just too nice to a guy that originally fired her because he "knew horses" and didn't need her. Only Phantom found out that he didn't know quarter horses and Elena was the expert. She was also quick to forgive him when he kept giving mixed signals. He would get close to her then push her away and she just kept forgiving him right away.
Most of the drama and intrigue was so good and it was hard to put down! I am guessing that we won't find out who the Puppet Master is for awhile and build up the suspense more and more. I loved that Phantom's sister is now working with their Admiral to try to keep their missions contained as it seems like there is a leak in his office.
The only thing that I really didn't like was their first sexual encounter and I really can't tell you why it bothered me but I just did not like it and was glad when the later encounters felt different to me.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series and maybe learn more about the mysterious Puppet Master!
I really liked the idea for this series as we have a group of SEALS posing as cowboys at the Texas border to try and catch criminals. The first book they took down the drug cartel and this book, they find a human trafficking ring.
Elena was just too nice to a guy that originally fired her because he "knew horses" and didn't need her. Only Phantom found out that he didn't know quarter horses and Elena was the expert. She was also quick to forgive him when he kept giving mixed signals. He would get close to her then push her away and she just kept forgiving him right away.
Most of the drama and intrigue was so good and it was hard to put down! I am guessing that we won't find out who the Puppet Master is for awhile and build up the suspense more and more. I loved that Phantom's sister is now working with their Admiral to try to keep their missions contained as it seems like there is a leak in his office.
The only thing that I really didn't like was their first sexual encounter and I really can't tell you why it bothered me but I just did not like it and was glad when the later encounters felt different to me.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series and maybe learn more about the mysterious Puppet Master!
March 29, 2020
Check out our A SEAL ALWAYS WINS post on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Mystery Romance
This is the second book in the series and I would recommend that you read them in order. Book two picks up with the same characters and issues that book one had.
Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez knows his mission. To figure out what is going on in the sleepy town where he and his SEAL buddies have been stationed for the time being. There is some shady business happening and they are the only people who can stop it.
Elena is amazing with horses. She trains them for show. When she is fired from her most lucrative position after new owners come in, she’s a little put out. Now she’s having to drive much further for her job and she’s still having to deal with a very pushy owner. Elena is kind and a great character. She is feisty when she needs to be, but she is also calm and patient.
Phantom knows that he’s there for a job, but he can’t help his attraction to Elena. When he requests that she help him learn the show business, it’s with some reluctance that she agrees. But as they train and travel together, neither can deny that they have a strong attraction.
As the mystery in their sleepy town increases, Elena will unwittingly be a major part of helping to uncover what truly is happening in their town. With danger coming from unknown directions, Phantom vows to keep Elena safe.
I found that their relationship was very realistic. Despite Phantom’s cover, he was able to show Elena very real parts of himself. I also really liked Elena for Phantom. They complemented each other well. I am looking forward to seeing what comes next.
Triggers: Human Trafficking
Mary – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in the Texas Navy SEALS series and it picks up where book one left off. In this book, we get a closer look at Phantom and Elena. In the first book, Phantom ran Elena off the ranch because he said they didn't need a horse trainer because he could do it. But now they see that they do need her. The real reason he didn't want her around was that he was attracted to her and she might distract him from his real job, which was finding out who was behind the human trafficking in the town.
Elena is the town's horse trainer and she has been doing it since she came to town right after graduating college. She is best friends with Anya. She couldn't believe that Phantom fired her and now he wants her back. But the feelings he evokes inside her scares her a little. When Phantom touches her though, she is affected in a good way.
When Elena is at one of the farms working with a few horses, she has to check on an invoice. She goes into the office and opens the computer and finds some horrifying information. When she leaves and goes home to run, someone follows her and tries to attack her. She has nowhere to run. When Phantom calls her and she tells him what happened, he tells her to come to his ranch.
Can the SEAL team get the bad guys before it is too late? Will Elena forgive Phantom for not telling her who he really is?
I really like this series, it is filled with suspense, intrigue, and a storyline to keep you interested. If you like romantic suspense, then this series is for you. I can't wait to see which SEAL book three will be about.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
February 2, 2020
A SEAL Always Wins is the second book of Holly Castillo’s Texas Navy SEALS and our primary couple are Enrique "Phantom" Ramirez and Elena Garcia. As with book one, this story is packed to the rafters with mystery, suspense and some off the charts chemistry too!
I thoroughly enjoyed Phantom and Elena’s story with its moments of intrigue and the obvious understanding and love Phantom has for his horses. There are some sensitive topics covered in this book, but everything is conveyed with empathy and care. Another wonderful addition to the series that will only leave readers wanting much more.
I thoroughly enjoyed Phantom and Elena’s story with its moments of intrigue and the obvious understanding and love Phantom has for his horses. There are some sensitive topics covered in this book, but everything is conveyed with empathy and care. Another wonderful addition to the series that will only leave readers wanting much more.
February 4, 2020
I found this to be a very intense read. I am always amazed how Holly draws you into the story and the characters lives. I missed reading the first book in this series and now I want to go back and read about Stryker. The adventure and excitement of the story starts from the first to the very last page. I could actually feel Elena's energetic personality and love of horses, while Phantom seemed moody and private. The pair meshed so well it was a really great blend to bring the story together.
January 25, 2020
I really enjoyed reading book 2 of this series. Phantom takes lead on this mission plus he gets the leading lady, Elana. I liked the way that the horses were worked into the story. The ending was very suspenseful.
January 2, 2020
For me this was more of a 3.5 story.
This second story in the series is the first book I have read by this author and it was entertaining.
The premise of the series is of a Navy SEAL team working out of a ranch in Texas. They were originally assigned to track and stop the drug cartels from infiltrating the USA. But now they have stumbled into a human trafficking ring.
Could the same individuals be the mastermind of both situations or are they dealing with two entities?
The main characters in this book are Phantom Ramirez and horse trainer Elena Garcia. They met originally when he fired her the moment the group took over the ranch she had been working at. But when he realizes he is over his head in training quarter horses (this is his cover), he seeks her help. The attraction intensifies, but Phantom is keeping his identity a secret. Will the discovery cause Elena to loose her trust in him?
When she’s put in danger , Phantom vows to safe her. But will he be able to get to her on time?
In general, I found the story entertaining, though Elena was less likable than Phantom, she was still ok.
I would give it a 3.5 but knowing that authors give their all in their craft, I will give it a 4 star review.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
This second story in the series is the first book I have read by this author and it was entertaining.
The premise of the series is of a Navy SEAL team working out of a ranch in Texas. They were originally assigned to track and stop the drug cartels from infiltrating the USA. But now they have stumbled into a human trafficking ring.
Could the same individuals be the mastermind of both situations or are they dealing with two entities?
The main characters in this book are Phantom Ramirez and horse trainer Elena Garcia. They met originally when he fired her the moment the group took over the ranch she had been working at. But when he realizes he is over his head in training quarter horses (this is his cover), he seeks her help. The attraction intensifies, but Phantom is keeping his identity a secret. Will the discovery cause Elena to loose her trust in him?
When she’s put in danger , Phantom vows to safe her. But will he be able to get to her on time?
In general, I found the story entertaining, though Elena was less likable than Phantom, she was still ok.
I would give it a 3.5 but knowing that authors give their all in their craft, I will give it a 4 star review.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 13, 2020
3.75stars
Phantom and his team of SEALs are still on a secret mission and under cower. For Phantom to stay on a track with the mission he must hire Elena the hose trainer that he so no subtly fired from his ranch. Elena is thrilled that she will work again with old horses and that she will work with a hot cowboy that is easy on the eye doesn't hurt too. Phantom and Elena have some crazy chemistry and they play this game of hot and cold until Elena's life becomes in jeopardy and secrets are revealed. A story with insta love with the SEAL cowboy that is combined with mystery suspense and a little bit of action.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for NetGalley
Phantom and his team of SEALs are still on a secret mission and under cower. For Phantom to stay on a track with the mission he must hire Elena the hose trainer that he so no subtly fired from his ranch. Elena is thrilled that she will work again with old horses and that she will work with a hot cowboy that is easy on the eye doesn't hurt too. Phantom and Elena have some crazy chemistry and they play this game of hot and cold until Elena's life becomes in jeopardy and secrets are revealed. A story with insta love with the SEAL cowboy that is combined with mystery suspense and a little bit of action.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for NetGalley
January 4, 2020
Complementary copy given for honest review.
Holly Castillo knocks it out of the park with this one. I love the strong characters in this book and I’m so happy that I got to “check in” on these characters. Love, love!!
Holly Castillo knocks it out of the park with this one. I love the strong characters in this book and I’m so happy that I got to “check in” on these characters. Love, love!!
March 12, 2020
The second book in Texas Navy SEALs, A SEAL Always Wins is a great read. Mystery, intrigue and romance, Phantom and Elena are well suited character and the author deals with the sensitive topics with great thought and care. I enjoyed the characters and loved the story and will be reading more.
March 12, 2020
The second book in Texas Navy SEALs, A SEAL Always Wins is a great read. Mystery, intrigue and romance, Phantom and Elena are well suited character and the author deals with the sensitive topics with great thought and care. I enjoyed the characters and loved the story and will be reading more.
March 29, 2020
Phantom he’s handsome, loves horses, what more can a horse trainer like Elena ask for. Then he fires her. When she works her way back into her job she finds herself falling for the tall rancher. He’s has partners. When she runs across another ranchers secrets can Phantom save her?
I read and reviewed this advanced complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley
I read and reviewed this advanced complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley
May 9, 2021
Phantom comes by his love of horses naturally, but quickly realizes training a quarterhorses is nothing like training thoroughbreds. He's going to have to eat some crow and ask his trainer to come back.
Elena loved working with the horses at the Bent Horseshoe and was devastated when Phantom told her he could handle it. So she jumps at the chance to go back. Spending time together brings them closer, but Pantom can't share the real reason he's on the ranch. Elena knows Phantom has secrets he's not sharing, but when she stumbles on a video she shouldn't have seen, it's Phantom she runs to for help.
The underlying premise of the series seems a little farfetched, but suspending disbelief, this is an enjoyable read. I would love to see more books in this series as I want the stories of the rest of the team members.
Elena loved working with the horses at the Bent Horseshoe and was devastated when Phantom told her he could handle it. So she jumps at the chance to go back. Spending time together brings them closer, but Pantom can't share the real reason he's on the ranch. Elena knows Phantom has secrets he's not sharing, but when she stumbles on a video she shouldn't have seen, it's Phantom she runs to for help.
The underlying premise of the series seems a little farfetched, but suspending disbelief, this is an enjoyable read. I would love to see more books in this series as I want the stories of the rest of the team members.
December 5, 2022
Eh. I forgot how much I didn't like the dialogue in the first book. Everything just feels rushed and not at all like a typical conversation. Way too much explanation going on.
But the story wasn't all bad, once things moved along. The action all takes place in the last 50 or so pages of the book, which, again, makes everything feel rushed. Just not the greatest pacing.
Not sure I'm interested enough in finding out who the Puppet Master is to continue reading the rest of the series.
But the story wasn't all bad, once things moved along. The action all takes place in the last 50 or so pages of the book, which, again, makes everything feel rushed. Just not the greatest pacing.
Not sure I'm interested enough in finding out who the Puppet Master is to continue reading the rest of the series.
August 8, 2020
Another bodice-ripping hunky male beach book.
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