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Tattered Wings
Some scars can't be seen. And some can't be hidden.
Layla Trent's life is pretty much perfect, except for the little matter of a dog of her own—and maybe a brother. So why does a random nightmare of a princess dress, a hospital, and a stranger who's definitely not her daddy feel more like an aching wound? And can a broken, glassy-eyed puppy somehow help her release the pain she didn't even know she was carrying?
Corporal Andrew Reyes has proven he has what it takes to be the best—a US Army Ranger. But when a double tragedy rocks his world, his resolve is shaken to the core. What's left for a man to live for when he's lost everything he ever wanted to be? And is the sudden appearance of a teenage girl with a three-legged therapy dog a cruel joke or a divine appointment?
Some scars can't be hidden. But some don't need to be.
Layla Trent's life is pretty much perfect, except for the little matter of a dog of her own—and maybe a brother. So why does a random nightmare of a princess dress, a hospital, and a stranger who's definitely not her daddy feel more like an aching wound? And can a broken, glassy-eyed puppy somehow help her release the pain she didn't even know she was carrying?
Corporal Andrew Reyes has proven he has what it takes to be the best—a US Army Ranger. But when a double tragedy rocks his world, his resolve is shaken to the core. What's left for a man to live for when he's lost everything he ever wanted to be? And is the sudden appearance of a teenage girl with a three-legged therapy dog a cruel joke or a divine appointment?
Some scars can't be hidden. But some don't need to be.
Unknown Binding
Published February 28, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 26, 2020
Okay. So um. That hurt.
///
When I say I jumped at the chance to read and review this book, know that I mean that in the strongest sense possible without meaning that I actually physically jumped on something.
I mean, c'mon. A girl with dreams of a painful memory she can't place. A soldier who loses all that gives his life meaning. Dozens of little instances that just made me smile. And there's a dog—a darling Golden Retriever. Does this book have my name written all over it or what? (Again, not literally.)
First, there's Layla. I love that child. Although, to be honest, I went into this book planning to love Andrew's story the most. I didn't really care about Layla's story too much. But by the epilogue, I loved her story just as much. Maybe more.
I love her personality and her spunkiness. I love her heart. I love her parents and her dog and her life. Reading about her dreams and all that comes to light through them... it broke my heart in the best way possible. I might have cried.
The whole service dog aspect of this story and all that surrounds it was very nice to find. That's something I don't see much in fiction, so I really appreciated that being shown in an accurate way.
And then, Andrew. As I said, I expected to love his story—and I wasn't disappointed. I cried. A lot. I actually probably cried as much or more over Isaiah as I did over Andrew. My dudes. <333
I did find myself wishing we would have seen more of Cpl. Reyes and his crowd in earlier chapters. As it was, the reader doesn't know him super well until THAT happens. Although there was plenty of impact as it was, it could've been more impactful if we were more attached to him before it happened. I also, for the majority of the book, was under the impression that Andrew's dad wasn't around, because he's like...never mentioned. So unless I missed it somewhere, I would've liked to known more about his family earlier on.
The writing could use some polishing, but overall, I found it to be engaging, in a laidback style. The story itself was heartfelt, well detailed, and easy to follow for the most part.
So, to sum things up:
- girl with fragments of a memory she can't grasp
- a family finding healing through a hurting dog
- a visit to a cemetery plot
- ARMY RANGERS, Y'ALL
- wounded soldiers
- family of said wounded soldiers binding together
- epic military setting
- one heck of an epilogue
- go read this book
Take-away: Your wings aren't broken. They might be tattered, but they'll still fly.
*wanders off wiping tears*
///
When I say I jumped at the chance to read and review this book, know that I mean that in the strongest sense possible without meaning that I actually physically jumped on something.
I mean, c'mon. A girl with dreams of a painful memory she can't place. A soldier who loses all that gives his life meaning. Dozens of little instances that just made me smile. And there's a dog—a darling Golden Retriever. Does this book have my name written all over it or what? (Again, not literally.)
First, there's Layla. I love that child. Although, to be honest, I went into this book planning to love Andrew's story the most. I didn't really care about Layla's story too much. But by the epilogue, I loved her story just as much. Maybe more.
I love her personality and her spunkiness. I love her heart. I love her parents and her dog and her life. Reading about her dreams and all that comes to light through them... it broke my heart in the best way possible. I might have cried.
The whole service dog aspect of this story and all that surrounds it was very nice to find. That's something I don't see much in fiction, so I really appreciated that being shown in an accurate way.
And then, Andrew. As I said, I expected to love his story—and I wasn't disappointed. I cried. A lot. I actually probably cried as much or more over Isaiah as I did over Andrew. My dudes. <333
I did find myself wishing we would have seen more of Cpl. Reyes and his crowd in earlier chapters. As it was, the reader doesn't know him super well until THAT happens. Although there was plenty of impact as it was, it could've been more impactful if we were more attached to him before it happened. I also, for the majority of the book, was under the impression that Andrew's dad wasn't around, because he's like...never mentioned. So unless I missed it somewhere, I would've liked to known more about his family earlier on.
The writing could use some polishing, but overall, I found it to be engaging, in a laidback style. The story itself was heartfelt, well detailed, and easy to follow for the most part.
So, to sum things up:
- girl with fragments of a memory she can't grasp
- a family finding healing through a hurting dog
- a visit to a cemetery plot
- ARMY RANGERS, Y'ALL
- wounded soldiers
- family of said wounded soldiers binding together
- epic military setting
- one heck of an epilogue
- go read this book
Take-away: Your wings aren't broken. They might be tattered, but they'll still fly.
*wanders off wiping tears*
February 28, 2020
Oh my word....this book hurt. I was in tears quite a few times and it just pained me to see first hand what these brave men and women go through daily. Kassie, being an Army-kid, writes this beautiful story that grabs your heart from the first page and keeps it. I loved everything about this book.
Andrew and Layla had such different but oh so alike in some ways. Andrew....poor Andrew, my heart ached for him so many times. I loved epilogue though and it made me so happy. There are men and women just like Andrew, Isaiah, and Jayden around us in America today. They put their lives on the line and lose parts of themselves that can never be regained just so we, the American people, can have freedom.
Layla's story was just as heartbreaking as we follow her and her journey to discovering her true self and facts about her past that haunt her to the present. I loved how Kassie presented her story and I absolutely loved all the connections to a single person from her past. Layla and Ranger were such an adorable pair and I loved how much hope and life they brought into Andrew's life. It was so heartwarming!!
Man, oh man, honestly I can see someone, who doesn't know a lot about the military getting lost in this book because Kassie brings out her Army kid knowledge. I personally loved it and though I didn't get lost because I knew almost, if not all the terms from the beginning, I still learned new things because I will honestly tell you that I am ignorant to a lot of military things. As huge of a supporter of it I am, I still am ignorant.
I absolutely loved this book. Though it got dark at times, I loved the hope, faith, and light that shown throughout this whole book. I highly recommend people reading this book, no matter who you are because it shines such a beautiful light on what our military truly does for our freedom. Without them, America would NOT be the country that it is today.
*FTC: I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.*
Andrew and Layla had such different but oh so alike in some ways. Andrew....poor Andrew, my heart ached for him so many times. I loved epilogue though and it made me so happy. There are men and women just like Andrew, Isaiah, and Jayden around us in America today. They put their lives on the line and lose parts of themselves that can never be regained just so we, the American people, can have freedom.
Layla's story was just as heartbreaking as we follow her and her journey to discovering her true self and facts about her past that haunt her to the present. I loved how Kassie presented her story and I absolutely loved all the connections to a single person from her past. Layla and Ranger were such an adorable pair and I loved how much hope and life they brought into Andrew's life. It was so heartwarming!!
Man, oh man, honestly I can see someone, who doesn't know a lot about the military getting lost in this book because Kassie brings out her Army kid knowledge. I personally loved it and though I didn't get lost because I knew almost, if not all the terms from the beginning, I still learned new things because I will honestly tell you that I am ignorant to a lot of military things. As huge of a supporter of it I am, I still am ignorant.
I absolutely loved this book. Though it got dark at times, I loved the hope, faith, and light that shown throughout this whole book. I highly recommend people reading this book, no matter who you are because it shines such a beautiful light on what our military truly does for our freedom. Without them, America would NOT be the country that it is today.
*FTC: I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.*
May 22, 2022
I put off writing this review for weeks because I hardly know how to even begin to put my thoughts into some sort of order. Part of me just wants to say I can't possibly and just please go and buy the book to see for yourself, but I do want to write some sort of review in the hopes that at least some people might do just that. This review isn't going to do it justice. No review can. But it's the best I can do. Having got that out the way...
After having read O To Be Like Thee and reread it and rereread it and loved it so much each time, I was slightly reluctant to read this for fear I would be disappointed because nothing could be as good as OTBLT, right? Wrong. Tattered Wings is just as good. I won't say it's better, because OTBLT would be very very hard to beat, but it's as good. And very different to it.
Firstly, the dual POV is one of the best I've read. After having read the synopsis, I was looking forward far more to Andrew's story than to Layla's. Layla's story looked nice enough, but not THAT exciting. Andrew's looked just so much better... Well, the prologue set me right. Mostly. I still wanted Andrew's story, but suddenly I was a whole lot more interested in Layla's. Particularly when I read the first chapter... And yes, in the first few chapters I did wish that it would go back to Andrew, but now I can see how much better it was that way. I loved Layla. I loved her story. Even though the story of her past didn't turn out the way I had thought it was going to... I loved it even better the way it was. Without spoilers, I can't say much, I'll just say... Maverick. It was heart-rendingly sad, but also so, so sweet.
As for Ranger - I loved that dog so much! He and Layla made the perfect pair. And he and Andrew... Let's just say, I loved how the two stories finally intersected. I also loved the way that particular scene was done, both from Andrew's perspective and Layla's...
And now, Andrew's story. Wow - in the first part he was hardly in it, except for a few short chapters here and there, but somehow the author managed to get me so into his story that when suddenly, things go very wrong, very quickly, it's just - heartbreaking. I had seen something coming, it just wasn't that. I was thinking of OTBLT again, and it wasn't like that. (I was glad, because if it had been it would have been in some ways worse and that would have been just too much.XD) But I think I almost like Andrew's story better than Corey's. And as for Isaiah... Possibly my favourite character in the whole book. I loved him so much! And then there was Dakota and the rest... and Layla's dad... I honestly never wanted this book to end. I could have kept on reading about Andy and Isaiah and Layla and Ranger forever - but especially Andy and Isaiah.
I LOVED the ending. So much. It was just perfect in every way.
The only thing I didn't like was Layla sending the letter up at the grave. I'm sure it wasn't meant to be taken literally as being sent to M, but I still wish it hadn't been put in. Despite that, the letter was incredibly sweet and beautiful and ended Layla's story perfectly, just as the last chapter ended Andy's. That last chapter... *melts* It was SUCH a good ending. For everything.
There really isn't much more I can say. Kassie Angle has just become one of my favourite authors, and I can't wait to read more of her works. As with OTBLT, the writing style, though the storylines themselves are so tragic, is so light and beautiful that the book never became hard to read - as it could have, very easily, with such heartbreaking stories. The pigeon scene had me laughing out loud, and so did some others. But most scenes, especially towards the end, make you cry. And that mixture is what makes Tattered Wings what it is. I know I'll be rereading it soon. I wanted to start the moment I finished. And just writing this review has made me want to even more.
OTBLT is still my favourite. But Tattered Wings comes pretty close. And now I really really want a sequel...
After having read O To Be Like Thee and reread it and rereread it and loved it so much each time, I was slightly reluctant to read this for fear I would be disappointed because nothing could be as good as OTBLT, right? Wrong. Tattered Wings is just as good. I won't say it's better, because OTBLT would be very very hard to beat, but it's as good. And very different to it.
Firstly, the dual POV is one of the best I've read. After having read the synopsis, I was looking forward far more to Andrew's story than to Layla's. Layla's story looked nice enough, but not THAT exciting. Andrew's looked just so much better... Well, the prologue set me right. Mostly. I still wanted Andrew's story, but suddenly I was a whole lot more interested in Layla's. Particularly when I read the first chapter... And yes, in the first few chapters I did wish that it would go back to Andrew, but now I can see how much better it was that way. I loved Layla. I loved her story. Even though the story of her past didn't turn out the way I had thought it was going to... I loved it even better the way it was. Without spoilers, I can't say much, I'll just say... Maverick. It was heart-rendingly sad, but also so, so sweet.
As for Ranger - I loved that dog so much! He and Layla made the perfect pair. And he and Andrew... Let's just say, I loved how the two stories finally intersected. I also loved the way that particular scene was done, both from Andrew's perspective and Layla's...
And now, Andrew's story. Wow - in the first part he was hardly in it, except for a few short chapters here and there, but somehow the author managed to get me so into his story that when suddenly, things go very wrong, very quickly, it's just - heartbreaking. I had seen something coming, it just wasn't that. I was thinking of OTBLT again, and it wasn't like that. (I was glad, because if it had been it would have been in some ways worse and that would have been just too much.XD) But I think I almost like Andrew's story better than Corey's. And as for Isaiah... Possibly my favourite character in the whole book. I loved him so much! And then there was Dakota and the rest... and Layla's dad... I honestly never wanted this book to end. I could have kept on reading about Andy and Isaiah and Layla and Ranger forever - but especially Andy and Isaiah.
I LOVED the ending. So much. It was just perfect in every way.
The only thing I didn't like was Layla sending the letter up at the grave. I'm sure it wasn't meant to be taken literally as being sent to M, but I still wish it hadn't been put in. Despite that, the letter was incredibly sweet and beautiful and ended Layla's story perfectly, just as the last chapter ended Andy's. That last chapter... *melts* It was SUCH a good ending. For everything.
There really isn't much more I can say. Kassie Angle has just become one of my favourite authors, and I can't wait to read more of her works. As with OTBLT, the writing style, though the storylines themselves are so tragic, is so light and beautiful that the book never became hard to read - as it could have, very easily, with such heartbreaking stories. The pigeon scene had me laughing out loud, and so did some others. But most scenes, especially towards the end, make you cry. And that mixture is what makes Tattered Wings what it is. I know I'll be rereading it soon. I wanted to start the moment I finished. And just writing this review has made me want to even more.
OTBLT is still my favourite. But Tattered Wings comes pretty close. And now I really really want a sequel...
July 3, 2024
5+ stars & 9/10 hearts. I love Kassie Angle’s books because they are so real and heart-breaking and beautiful and satisfying and redemptive and joyful. I love all her stories, but this one has my heart. I’m not sure why. Maybe it’s because there’s policemen, and I’ve always had a special spot for the police. Maybe it’s because so many of the characters stole my heart. Maybe it’s because the MC makes me think so much of a certain sweet, hilarious friend whom I love so much. Probably all of these things. Broken characters, God’s wise & mysterious ways, policemen, dogs, writing, soldiers, brothers... folded together by Kassie’s beautiful, humorous writing... there’s so much in this that goes to my heart. I love it so much, so much. I’m not telling you much about this book, and I know. I can’t tell you anything more than this. Just read it. If it doesn’t touch you, there’s something wrong with your heart. Don’t ever take these heroes for granted. Kassie, thank you—*thank you* for writing these stories & showing us what it’s like to be in the Army.
A Favourite Quote: “This you can’t just do, without trying, with only your—your own strong wings, Andy. This, you need His help because you’re helpless.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Andy, He didn’t take your wings. And trust me, He still wants you to fly. Your wings may be tattered, but you can still fly, if only you’d try.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: Daddy sat beside me and opened the laptop. “So, tell me what his training entails.”
“Ranger’s?”
“No, the computer’s.”
I pretended to punch him and he pretended to block. “Just people manners, mainly, the normal commands, and a good reaction to other dogs. It’s easy, really.” ...
“Where do you want to visit?” Daddy probed.
And because thinking things through is apparently not one of my strong points, I blurted the first thing that came to my head.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
A Favourite Quote: “This you can’t just do, without trying, with only your—your own strong wings, Andy. This, you need His help because you’re helpless.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Andy, He didn’t take your wings. And trust me, He still wants you to fly. Your wings may be tattered, but you can still fly, if only you’d try.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: Daddy sat beside me and opened the laptop. “So, tell me what his training entails.”
“Ranger’s?”
“No, the computer’s.”
I pretended to punch him and he pretended to block. “Just people manners, mainly, the normal commands, and a good reaction to other dogs. It’s easy, really.” ...
“Where do you want to visit?” Daddy probed.
And because thinking things through is apparently not one of my strong points, I blurted the first thing that came to my head.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
October 16, 2021
Wow.....what a sweet book. It was really hard to read tho. I cried a lot :'( but it was so full of hope and love too. It was so uplifting and I loved it so much!
I loved the scene with the pogrom :D it was so full of joy and laughter that I couldn't help but laugh along with the characters:p
And the last chapter was priceless. I cried happy tears and grinned like an idiot.
Layla, Ranger...Jayden, Andrew, Isaiah, Dakota, Danny, Kyle, Maverick....I loved every single one of them to pieces!
Even though Tattered Wings was full of pain and sorrow, hope and joy prevailed :) and I'm so glad I read this. So glad it showed up on my update page
I loved the scene with the pogrom :D it was so full of joy and laughter that I couldn't help but laugh along with the characters:p
And the last chapter was priceless. I cried happy tears and grinned like an idiot.
Layla, Ranger...Jayden, Andrew, Isaiah, Dakota, Danny, Kyle, Maverick....I loved every single one of them to pieces!
Even though Tattered Wings was full of pain and sorrow, hope and joy prevailed :) and I'm so glad I read this. So glad it showed up on my update page
January 12, 2021
Literally just walked around, doing chores in a daze after finishing this.
Review to come. Maybe. If I can get my thoughts in order😆
Review to come. Maybe. If I can get my thoughts in order😆
January 16, 2020
*eyes book* *eyes review space* *throws up hands helplessly*
How, how, how do you review a book like this? A book that just about drowned me in puddles of my own tears but that I still love with a passion? A book that deals with hard situations that I've never experienced even indirectly but that's gotten me so protective of "my Army guys" that I just want to salute them and hug on them all at the same time? A book with characters that are so strong and so broken and so utterly real that I'm absolutely holding my breath and clenching my fists rooting them on?
So, yeah, this book was all that and more. I seriously cried buckets the first time I read it. And yes, that's coming from me, the tearing-up's-okay-but-don't-you-dare-make-me-cry reader. And yes, I'm still giving it five stars, because--I can't help it.
Layla. Oh, my goodness, Layla. She's so strong and so carefree and so normal, but underneath it all there's some sort of secret pain that she can't even identify and can't totally ignore and wants to talk about but doesn't want to talk about. The scenes where she poured her heart into her journal were just so raw and real and painfully beautiful. And her parents...I really loved them, too. <3 And then Ranger... *melts into a puddle and dies*
But as much as I loved Layla's storyline, Andrew's pulled at my heart even harder. Yes, my heart broke multiple times for everything he was going through, but watching him come through it--struggle and win and lose for a moment and then get up and try again and have hard days and feel like he wasn't winning and try again and know it was going to be okay--even though I've never gone through anything close to what he did, it was all so, so real! And Isaiah and Dakota--so. Much. Love!!! <3<3<3<3<3 I can't tell you how many times something one of them said or did for Andy put a huge lump in my throat. Also, the way the entire Reyes family just surrounded and adopted Isaiah totally took my breath away. <3<\3 And just so many fun and hilarious moments that brought perfect balance to all the tough issues...I love it all so much!
It's rather an excruciating feeling waiting for an author's next work when you know it's going to rip your heart to shreds but you also know it'll be beautiful enough that you don't care. And if anyone has achieved that status with me, it's definitely Kassie. I'll be waiting for her next release with bated breath...and trying to get my heart back to some semblance of normal in the meantime. :)
I wrote the summary for this book and received a free copy from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Content--mentions of injuries, wounds, blood, and scars (not graphic); a few war scenes, including gunplay, explosions, and deaths; some frightening dreams and flashbacks
How, how, how do you review a book like this? A book that just about drowned me in puddles of my own tears but that I still love with a passion? A book that deals with hard situations that I've never experienced even indirectly but that's gotten me so protective of "my Army guys" that I just want to salute them and hug on them all at the same time? A book with characters that are so strong and so broken and so utterly real that I'm absolutely holding my breath and clenching my fists rooting them on?
So, yeah, this book was all that and more. I seriously cried buckets the first time I read it. And yes, that's coming from me, the tearing-up's-okay-but-don't-you-dare-make-me-cry reader. And yes, I'm still giving it five stars, because--I can't help it.
Layla. Oh, my goodness, Layla. She's so strong and so carefree and so normal, but underneath it all there's some sort of secret pain that she can't even identify and can't totally ignore and wants to talk about but doesn't want to talk about. The scenes where she poured her heart into her journal were just so raw and real and painfully beautiful. And her parents...I really loved them, too. <3 And then Ranger... *melts into a puddle and dies*
But as much as I loved Layla's storyline, Andrew's pulled at my heart even harder. Yes, my heart broke multiple times for everything he was going through, but watching him come through it--struggle and win and lose for a moment and then get up and try again and have hard days and feel like he wasn't winning and try again and know it was going to be okay--even though I've never gone through anything close to what he did, it was all so, so real! And Isaiah and Dakota--so. Much. Love!!! <3<3<3<3<3 I can't tell you how many times something one of them said or did for Andy put a huge lump in my throat. Also, the way the entire Reyes family just surrounded and adopted Isaiah totally took my breath away. <3<\3 And just so many fun and hilarious moments that brought perfect balance to all the tough issues...I love it all so much!
It's rather an excruciating feeling waiting for an author's next work when you know it's going to rip your heart to shreds but you also know it'll be beautiful enough that you don't care. And if anyone has achieved that status with me, it's definitely Kassie. I'll be waiting for her next release with bated breath...and trying to get my heart back to some semblance of normal in the meantime. :)
I wrote the summary for this book and received a free copy from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Content--mentions of injuries, wounds, blood, and scars (not graphic); a few war scenes, including gunplay, explosions, and deaths; some frightening dreams and flashbacks
September 8, 2020
Initial Review
So two things. First off, pretty sure this is the first time I've ended up crying at the nurses station at 3am.
Secondly, I just realized that if I become a nurse I could work in a military hospital. Excuse me while I srsly contemplate a career change.
Updated Review
Review - 3.5 stars - rounded to 4 because #brothers
This book was so sweet. I had some downtime at work and forgot to bring a book, so I opened my kindle. I'd totally forgotten that I had this and I was excited to start reading it.
So everything I loved. (Beware there's a lot xD)
-Isaiah and Andy
-Dakota
-The Rayes Family
-Strong family themes + never leave your partner behind 3
-Isaiah
-The running aspect
-Military hospitals
-Recovery was shown for how difficult it is
-Did I mention Isaiah?
I loved their half of the book. The strong brother themes, the loyalty, the teasing and camaraderie. I highlighted several quotes throughout their chapters and oh my gosh my heart. So good. Also Dakota legit almost ties with Isaiah for a favorite character. Even though he wasn't a huge part of the story I loved every scene with him in it, and his character was so well developed.
And can I mention the writing style? Normally that's something I have the most trouble with when trying new authors, but not this time. It worked seamlessly with the story and it added to it in a subtle way, making it even better. I've waited so long for no-romance brother stories and finding one legit made my day. I teared up several times through their chapters. Everything was so well done.
What I wasn't as fond of.
-I had a hard time connecting with Layla. She was rly sweet and loved her interactions with Ranger, I just ... didn't really understand many of her motivations and I felt like she acted younger then her age. In the later chapters she seemed more mature but in the beginning it just seemed ... off. However this is probably more something where I'm the issue, and not the story. I tend to to have a difficult time connecting with most female characters. xP
-I loved the medical aspect ... but several things weren't quite right. And honestly it's the kind of things most people would never realize but I work in an ER and hospital and I notice everything. xD
-Isaiah's story is kind confusing. We see how Andy heals slowly through time but Isaiah is different. First he can't move, then he can move a hand, then kind his arm, then he can hold himself up in a wheelchair? The progression was confusing and kinda ties into the above point where some of the medical wasn't all that correct. Nothing super major, but things I noticed.
All in all I enjoyed much more then I disliked, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys war stories, brother stories, dog stories, stories dealing with PTSD, healing after an injury, etc. It was very well done and I can't want to read more of Kassie's books!
So two things. First off, pretty sure this is the first time I've ended up crying at the nurses station at 3am.
Secondly, I just realized that if I become a nurse I could work in a military hospital. Excuse me while I srsly contemplate a career change.
Updated Review
Review - 3.5 stars - rounded to 4 because #brothers
This book was so sweet. I had some downtime at work and forgot to bring a book, so I opened my kindle. I'd totally forgotten that I had this and I was excited to start reading it.
So everything I loved. (Beware there's a lot xD)
-Isaiah and Andy
-Dakota
-The Rayes Family
-Strong family themes + never leave your partner behind 3
-Isaiah
-The running aspect
-Military hospitals
-Recovery was shown for how difficult it is
-Did I mention Isaiah?
I loved their half of the book. The strong brother themes, the loyalty, the teasing and camaraderie. I highlighted several quotes throughout their chapters and oh my gosh my heart. So good. Also Dakota legit almost ties with Isaiah for a favorite character. Even though he wasn't a huge part of the story I loved every scene with him in it, and his character was so well developed.
And can I mention the writing style? Normally that's something I have the most trouble with when trying new authors, but not this time. It worked seamlessly with the story and it added to it in a subtle way, making it even better. I've waited so long for no-romance brother stories and finding one legit made my day. I teared up several times through their chapters. Everything was so well done.
What I wasn't as fond of.
-I had a hard time connecting with Layla. She was rly sweet and loved her interactions with Ranger, I just ... didn't really understand many of her motivations and I felt like she acted younger then her age. In the later chapters she seemed more mature but in the beginning it just seemed ... off. However this is probably more something where I'm the issue, and not the story. I tend to to have a difficult time connecting with most female characters. xP
-I loved the medical aspect ... but several things weren't quite right. And honestly it's the kind of things most people would never realize but I work in an ER and hospital and I notice everything. xD
-Isaiah's story is kind confusing. We see how Andy heals slowly through time but Isaiah is different. First he can't move, then he can move a hand, then kind his arm, then he can hold himself up in a wheelchair? The progression was confusing and kinda ties into the above point where some of the medical wasn't all that correct. Nothing super major, but things I noticed.
All in all I enjoyed much more then I disliked, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys war stories, brother stories, dog stories, stories dealing with PTSD, healing after an injury, etc. It was very well done and I can't want to read more of Kassie's books!
February 12, 2022
(Repost from my blog, February 28, 2020)
Where to even begin! This book made me laugh one minute and cry the next! It was such a touching story. The part that really got to me was when Layla was reading letters written to Mavericks mother...I've talked with a gold star mom on multiple occasions and she read me a similar letter...such a touching scene!
Andrew is probably my favorite character. I mean, he's a Ranger and a runner...and he's such a compelling lead.
That's not to down play Layla and Ranger and Jaydon though! This family is so sweet together and the dynamics of their relationship...and the tragedies that pull them tighter are so heart-breakingly beautiful!
The message of the story is so powerful. Hope, perseverance, God's hand in our lives and the desire to honor our heroes...ah! I can't say enough good about this book. And there's even a Police Officer line in the story! And of course, the balloons...
Because the story does deal with war injuries and PTSD, I would recommend this for 14+ for understanding. The book is clean and all, and there are no gory descriptions.
O To Be Like Thee still has my heart, but this book...nope, can't even compare them. They are both so good!
*I received an e-book copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own*
Where to even begin! This book made me laugh one minute and cry the next! It was such a touching story. The part that really got to me was when Layla was reading letters written to Mavericks mother...I've talked with a gold star mom on multiple occasions and she read me a similar letter...such a touching scene!
Andrew is probably my favorite character. I mean, he's a Ranger and a runner...and he's such a compelling lead.
That's not to down play Layla and Ranger and Jaydon though! This family is so sweet together and the dynamics of their relationship...and the tragedies that pull them tighter are so heart-breakingly beautiful!
The message of the story is so powerful. Hope, perseverance, God's hand in our lives and the desire to honor our heroes...ah! I can't say enough good about this book. And there's even a Police Officer line in the story! And of course, the balloons...
Because the story does deal with war injuries and PTSD, I would recommend this for 14+ for understanding. The book is clean and all, and there are no gory descriptions.
O To Be Like Thee still has my heart, but this book...nope, can't even compare them. They are both so good!
*I received an e-book copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own*
January 7, 2021
Wow, wow, wow.
The writing style was really good. The theme was awesome and powerful. The characters were stellar. The ending third or so was just plain extra beautiful. *heart eyes*
I guess my only con would be the plot - Andrew's story didn't even start until well into the novel, which made it seem imbalanced. But - I feel like I knew Andrew well quickly, though.
But the incredible message of this book overshadowed any qualms. It was just . . . amazing.
In short: Read this book. Just read it.
*I received a free e-copy of this book (from the author) in exchange for an honest review. A positive review was not required. All thoughts are my own.*
The writing style was really good. The theme was awesome and powerful. The characters were stellar. The ending third or so was just plain extra beautiful. *heart eyes*
I guess my only con would be the plot - Andrew's story didn't even start until well into the novel, which made it seem imbalanced. But - I feel like I knew Andrew well quickly, though.
But the incredible message of this book overshadowed any qualms. It was just . . . amazing.
In short: Read this book. Just read it.
*I received a free e-copy of this book (from the author) in exchange for an honest review. A positive review was not required. All thoughts are my own.*
December 22, 2021
I knew going into this that I would wind up almost crying. I mean, it's a Kassie Angle book. Soldiers and tears are her strong suit. Boy was I not kidding.
Laylah and Andy stole my heart away and almost made me cry. Again. Kassie is so good at these kinds of stories, filled with hope and redemption throughout heartbreak and trials. This is one book I can't wait to read again and again.
Laylah and Andy stole my heart away and almost made me cry. Again. Kassie is so good at these kinds of stories, filled with hope and redemption throughout heartbreak and trials. This is one book I can't wait to read again and again.
April 19, 2022
This was an amazing book! Kassie Angle did an awesome job!
January 21, 2020
I was blessed to be able to beta read this last year, and I waited eagerly for the last few chapters of the book to be written . . . and now it has.
And boy, was it ever worth the wait!
This book was so good, and so well written, that I fell in love with it -- in it's not-yet-finished, still-needing-edits form. And now, completed, almost published, and all gussied up, it was amazing!
This story is about a young lady, Layla Trent, and her desire for a dog, and the Lord's provision in the least likely of ways. I appreciated her honesty when she was told she could bring Ranger, the dog missing a leg, home to be her very own -- and the courage and compassion she summoned up to care for him and help him get back to waking and running again.
And, may I just say, that the occupation of therapy dog was perfect for Ranger?
This story is interwoven with that of her fathers, who was in Iraq, injured, and sent home. All when Layla was young and all the details seem like a vague dream to her. Then she finds out. I'm still not quite completely sure why the Trent's would have kept it from their daughter, as it seems to be a huge, major way the Lord worked in their lives, but they did.
And then Layla found out, and she is set on a quest to discover what happened, who this soldier is that she remembers, and she inspires her father to face, head long, the insurmountable grief that has consumed him for so very long.
In the midst of all this, we are given the story of a soldier boy, an Army Ranger, who, along with his friend, trains, gets his wings, and flies to his deployment. The Reye's family is SO sweet and I love the brothers interactions with each other. Good, solid brother relationships are often missing from the fiction world, and this was a beautiful relationship. When faced with trials and challenges, the way the brothers struggle, honestly portrayed, is wonderful to read, because it brings them closer to each other and to Christ. Andrew is the ultimate older brother, ya'll, seeking to comfort, encourage, inspire, and advise his younger brothers. Dakota was the sweetest, with his understanding and compassion -- rare traits when you are talking about a guy character in the fiction world. And the other brothers are adorable and energetic and striving to understand what has happened . . . that I'm not about to tell you =)
And the story of the Ranger, Layla and *her* Ranger, and Mr. Trent's background are all woven together so effortlessly in a way that shows us readers the God is behind every tragedy and trial, and that the tapestry of our lives affects those around us. The things we go through have the opportunity to encourage someone else, to inspire them, to hurt them, to point them towards the Lord above.
This book was good, in so many ways. And that's coming from a girl who avoids animal books because they are always too sad. And from a girl who really doesn't like dogs all that much. Although, Ranger was pretty awesome, and I'd love him as a pet :D
I am so thankful for Kassie letting me read this book not only once, but twice. I am looking forward to the release tour of this book, and looking forward to seeing other reader opinions of it =)
And boy, was it ever worth the wait!
This book was so good, and so well written, that I fell in love with it -- in it's not-yet-finished, still-needing-edits form. And now, completed, almost published, and all gussied up, it was amazing!
This story is about a young lady, Layla Trent, and her desire for a dog, and the Lord's provision in the least likely of ways. I appreciated her honesty when she was told she could bring Ranger, the dog missing a leg, home to be her very own -- and the courage and compassion she summoned up to care for him and help him get back to waking and running again.
And, may I just say, that the occupation of therapy dog was perfect for Ranger?
This story is interwoven with that of her fathers, who was in Iraq, injured, and sent home. All when Layla was young and all the details seem like a vague dream to her. Then she finds out. I'm still not quite completely sure why the Trent's would have kept it from their daughter, as it seems to be a huge, major way the Lord worked in their lives, but they did.
And then Layla found out, and she is set on a quest to discover what happened, who this soldier is that she remembers, and she inspires her father to face, head long, the insurmountable grief that has consumed him for so very long.
In the midst of all this, we are given the story of a soldier boy, an Army Ranger, who, along with his friend, trains, gets his wings, and flies to his deployment. The Reye's family is SO sweet and I love the brothers interactions with each other. Good, solid brother relationships are often missing from the fiction world, and this was a beautiful relationship. When faced with trials and challenges, the way the brothers struggle, honestly portrayed, is wonderful to read, because it brings them closer to each other and to Christ. Andrew is the ultimate older brother, ya'll, seeking to comfort, encourage, inspire, and advise his younger brothers. Dakota was the sweetest, with his understanding and compassion -- rare traits when you are talking about a guy character in the fiction world. And the other brothers are adorable and energetic and striving to understand what has happened . . . that I'm not about to tell you =)
And the story of the Ranger, Layla and *her* Ranger, and Mr. Trent's background are all woven together so effortlessly in a way that shows us readers the God is behind every tragedy and trial, and that the tapestry of our lives affects those around us. The things we go through have the opportunity to encourage someone else, to inspire them, to hurt them, to point them towards the Lord above.
This book was good, in so many ways. And that's coming from a girl who avoids animal books because they are always too sad. And from a girl who really doesn't like dogs all that much. Although, Ranger was pretty awesome, and I'd love him as a pet :D
I am so thankful for Kassie letting me read this book not only once, but twice. I am looking forward to the release tour of this book, and looking forward to seeing other reader opinions of it =)
January 10, 2020
WHOA
Guys, this book was INCREDIBLE!!!! It was SO beautifully written, tore my heart into little bits, and encouraged me greatly.
WRITING
Kassie really does have a way with words. Her poignant thoughts and emotions relay onto the page seamlessly. Her writing stirs my heart inside. It inspires me. It gives me hope. Her writing is truly outstanding and I love it!!!
STORY
This sweet, heart aching story of a dog with a lost leg, a girl uncovering a mystery, and a double amputee and how their lives get woven together is so moving. I love these types of stories, and this was one very special to me. The story goes a along at a perfect clip. The mystery element is even so touching and sweet it just was perfect for my soft heart.
CHARACTERS
I could go on and ON about these characters!!! 😍😍😍😍 Every last one of them, Layla, Andrew, 'Saiah, Kody, Maverick.....each one was deep, thoughtful, and achingly real. Layla is an AMAZING, strong girl with a heart of gold. It was so hard not to fall in the love with her. And Andrew was broken and devastated and I wanted nothing more than to give him a big hug. And I wanted to protect my bean Isaiah from the huge cruel world. And I feel a loss for not knowing Maverick personally. And Ranger felt like a doggo I know. He made me want to cuddle him in my bed every night. Each character had me rooting for their stories, and I wanted nothing more than to see them win.
THEME
I. Could. Sob. For. Hours. Every last theme, from fallen soldiers to wounded men to dogs to army life to the theme of the books title, Tattered Wings, this book had strong, touching themes that rocked my heart. It's hard to put into words how much the "tattered wings" part of the book meant to me, but I guess you'll just have to buy the book and take my word for it. ;)
SETTING
AZ was the BEST backdrop for this army story!!!! It felt right at home, yet like we were going on a new adventure all at once. Makes me want to take a trip there myself!
It was hard to put my finger on it, but this book had a feeling of REALNESS to it. Like it was an autobiography. Like they were real people. And their feelings were truly their own.
Overall, we have an amazing, touching, patriotic story that I'd recommend to anyone. It's full of laughs, love, and heartache. But most importantly, it's full of Hope. For everyone from a three legged dog to a sad teen girl to a wounded army soldier, everyone has a reason to keep going.
Guys, this book was INCREDIBLE!!!! It was SO beautifully written, tore my heart into little bits, and encouraged me greatly.
WRITING
Kassie really does have a way with words. Her poignant thoughts and emotions relay onto the page seamlessly. Her writing stirs my heart inside. It inspires me. It gives me hope. Her writing is truly outstanding and I love it!!!
STORY
This sweet, heart aching story of a dog with a lost leg, a girl uncovering a mystery, and a double amputee and how their lives get woven together is so moving. I love these types of stories, and this was one very special to me. The story goes a along at a perfect clip. The mystery element is even so touching and sweet it just was perfect for my soft heart.
CHARACTERS
I could go on and ON about these characters!!! 😍😍😍😍 Every last one of them, Layla, Andrew, 'Saiah, Kody, Maverick.....each one was deep, thoughtful, and achingly real. Layla is an AMAZING, strong girl with a heart of gold. It was so hard not to fall in the love with her. And Andrew was broken and devastated and I wanted nothing more than to give him a big hug. And I wanted to protect my bean Isaiah from the huge cruel world. And I feel a loss for not knowing Maverick personally. And Ranger felt like a doggo I know. He made me want to cuddle him in my bed every night. Each character had me rooting for their stories, and I wanted nothing more than to see them win.
THEME
I. Could. Sob. For. Hours. Every last theme, from fallen soldiers to wounded men to dogs to army life to the theme of the books title, Tattered Wings, this book had strong, touching themes that rocked my heart. It's hard to put into words how much the "tattered wings" part of the book meant to me, but I guess you'll just have to buy the book and take my word for it. ;)
SETTING
AZ was the BEST backdrop for this army story!!!! It felt right at home, yet like we were going on a new adventure all at once. Makes me want to take a trip there myself!
It was hard to put my finger on it, but this book had a feeling of REALNESS to it. Like it was an autobiography. Like they were real people. And their feelings were truly their own.
Overall, we have an amazing, touching, patriotic story that I'd recommend to anyone. It's full of laughs, love, and heartache. But most importantly, it's full of Hope. For everyone from a three legged dog to a sad teen girl to a wounded army soldier, everyone has a reason to keep going.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2021
Ouch...yeah. I was not expecting that! I've been meaning to read this for ages, and now I have and now I'm not sure what to think.
February 19, 2020
Tattered Wings is the story of Layla, a young girl with a half-remembered past, and the three-legged dog who helps her to discover her heroes. Our characters in this story are, of course, Layla Trent, who's sixteen years old and troubled by memories she gained as a toddler. Then there's her dog, Ranger, who lost a leg in an accident and is now learning to live again. And finally, there's Andrew Reynes, a young airborne ranger struggling with both mental and physical pain. Of course, there's a bunch of delightful side characters, such as Andy's younger brothers, his best friend Isaiah, and Layla's dad. Of them all, Ranger was definitely my favourite, because I love dogs a lot, but of the humans, I liked Layla the best. She had a great character arc, where she matured a lot and learnt about the realities of war and the different scars it leaves, and I loved the scenes of her training with Ranger.
As far as plot goes, this story is short and sweet. It's a straightforward tale of people finding healing through the means of friends, family, dogs and God and its pretty great. Kassie reiterates the themes several times, but rarely falls into preachiness.
Despite it's subject and themes, this book is a lot of lighthearted fun. I found myself cheering for Layla, Ranger and Andy and I was thrilled with the ending. Definitely pick this up if you're into military fiction, dogs or just want to support a young indie author.
As far as plot goes, this story is short and sweet. It's a straightforward tale of people finding healing through the means of friends, family, dogs and God and its pretty great. Kassie reiterates the themes several times, but rarely falls into preachiness.
Despite it's subject and themes, this book is a lot of lighthearted fun. I found myself cheering for Layla, Ranger and Andy and I was thrilled with the ending. Definitely pick this up if you're into military fiction, dogs or just want to support a young indie author.
May 6, 2025
I’ve really enjoyed all of Kassie Angle’s books. They are very clean with no romance, and really bring a lot of awareness about what it’s like in the army (and coming out of it). They’re also written in a very understandable way that younger readers will be able to grasp and appreciate. I really hope there are hard copies available somewhere of this book and Stop the Rain so that I can lend them out to people!
September 5, 2020
Welp, I cried. A hundred times probably. And it was beautiful.
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