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Soul on Fire
A deadly virus burns through the jungle, leaving nothing but corpses in its wake. Everyone flees from the outbreak—except for the terrorists intent on weaponizing the catastrophe.
Lieutenant Elliot Davis, US Navy SEAL, is sent to rescue CIA officers from their clandestine base in Goma, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and evacuate them out of the country. What they’ve uncovered sends Elliot back to the Congo, trying to prevent an attack that could spark a global pandemic.
Dr. Ikolo Ngondu runs a refugee hospital caught between the advancing rebels intent on slaughtering everyone in their path and Elliot’s mission to find and capture their leader. In the chaos of a surprise attack, Elliot’s target slips away, and the only way to find him is to plunge into the Congo’s dark, dangerous, and fevered forest with Ikolo as his guide.
Together they track a burning shadow through Africa’s broken heart, and Elliot struggles to reconcile the world he finds with the life he’s lived as a black man in the West. He looks to Ikolo for answers and finds a man with a core so bright and fierce he scorches Elliot’s soul.
Even as they race against time, Elliot and Ikolo have no idea what’s been set in motion with their mission: a dark secret lies at the center, one that leaves billions of lives hovering between life and death.
And through it all, a question burns inside Elliot, one that only Ikolo may hold the answer to.
Lieutenant Elliot Davis, US Navy SEAL, is sent to rescue CIA officers from their clandestine base in Goma, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and evacuate them out of the country. What they’ve uncovered sends Elliot back to the Congo, trying to prevent an attack that could spark a global pandemic.
Dr. Ikolo Ngondu runs a refugee hospital caught between the advancing rebels intent on slaughtering everyone in their path and Elliot’s mission to find and capture their leader. In the chaos of a surprise attack, Elliot’s target slips away, and the only way to find him is to plunge into the Congo’s dark, dangerous, and fevered forest with Ikolo as his guide.
Together they track a burning shadow through Africa’s broken heart, and Elliot struggles to reconcile the world he finds with the life he’s lived as a black man in the West. He looks to Ikolo for answers and finds a man with a core so bright and fierce he scorches Elliot’s soul.
Even as they race against time, Elliot and Ikolo have no idea what’s been set in motion with their mission: a dark secret lies at the center, one that leaves billions of lives hovering between life and death.
And through it all, a question burns inside Elliot, one that only Ikolo may hold the answer to.
280 pages, ebook
First published July 27, 2019
178 people are currently reading
1138 people want to read
About the author
Tal Bauer
27 books5,796 followersTal Bauer writes breathtaking, heartfelt, and often action-packed gay romance novels. His characters are head over heels for each other and fight against all odds for their happy ending. Nothing stands in the way of love. Tal is best known for his romantic suspense novels, including the Executive Office series, The Murder Between Us, The Grave Between Us, The Night of, and his MM sports romance, The Jock.
Website - www.talbauerwrites.com
Amazon Author - http://amazon.com/author/talbauer
Instagram - @TalBauerWrites
Newsletter - https://mailchi.mp/f1fd8baec198/talba...
Website - www.talbauerwrites.com
Amazon Author - http://amazon.com/author/talbauer
Instagram - @TalBauerWrites
Newsletter - https://mailchi.mp/f1fd8baec198/talba...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
August 4, 2019
***** 4.5 Stars ****
I don't watch TV, I don't listen to the news, and I try to ignore newspapers and magazines.
What did the world see when it looked at Africa?
It's on purpose.
But for centuries, black skin had defined what a person was far more than who they were in their heart and soul: a slave.
My ignorance is blissful.
There were different shades of black in the world, he realized. What the world saw when they looked at him, and what the world saw when they looked at Africans.
I know it's selfish, but in my defence, I have to say that I do have enough on my plate.
He'd never even built a dream for his life. He didn't know how to dream, not in a world that told him a thousand different ways, a thousand different days, that he wasn't wanted.
So, I like keeping my head buried in the sand.
"I want to save a life for every one I was forced to take."
Now, what just happened here? Soul on Fire is everything I don't want to know, and I don't want to hear. I'll be dammed if Soul on Fire read as fiction. But despite that, I had to keep going or else.
I felt, I felt as soon as I started that I couldn't keep fooling myself in my romanceland with this story. Was I up to face this? Hell, yeah.
It's all down to the writing. UNPUTABLEDOWN.
The descriptions of what happens in Congo are horrifying, from living conditions in the forest to biological warfare.
Soul on Fire is consuming, raw and fucking heartbreaking! But the love story, oh the love story... 🥰 it will nourish your soul and soothe your heart.
Available on KU at the moment.
I don't watch TV, I don't listen to the news, and I try to ignore newspapers and magazines.
What did the world see when it looked at Africa?
It's on purpose.
But for centuries, black skin had defined what a person was far more than who they were in their heart and soul: a slave.
My ignorance is blissful.
There were different shades of black in the world, he realized. What the world saw when they looked at him, and what the world saw when they looked at Africans.
I know it's selfish, but in my defence, I have to say that I do have enough on my plate.
He'd never even built a dream for his life. He didn't know how to dream, not in a world that told him a thousand different ways, a thousand different days, that he wasn't wanted.
So, I like keeping my head buried in the sand.
"I want to save a life for every one I was forced to take."
Now, what just happened here? Soul on Fire is everything I don't want to know, and I don't want to hear. I'll be dammed if Soul on Fire read as fiction. But despite that, I had to keep going or else.
I felt, I felt as soon as I started that I couldn't keep fooling myself in my romanceland with this story. Was I up to face this? Hell, yeah.
It's all down to the writing. UNPUTABLEDOWN.
The descriptions of what happens in Congo are horrifying, from living conditions in the forest to biological warfare.
Soul on Fire is consuming, raw and fucking heartbreaking! But the love story, oh the love story... 🥰 it will nourish your soul and soothe your heart.
Available on KU at the moment.
August 7, 2019
***4.5 Stars***
Once in a while, Tal Bauer scrapes at my bubble of an idyllic world until it bursts and he gives me something to chew on. Heavily. We are talking about almost Whisper territory here. Umm, before you start to faint, no, not in length, but in topicality and the way the story affected me emotionally.
Soul on Fire deals with topics I read about marginally in the daily news, but it usually concerns people on the other side of the world. Ebola. Rebels. Refugee camps. Biological warfare. Victims of racism. So, aside from a small pang of sorrow and sympathy, why should I care more? This book provides background info I never even thought about and the author once again did an exceptional job with his research.
It is brutal, detailed, sometimes gory and also authentic and thought-provoking, with no sugar anywhere in sight to coat the ugly things. But he also took utmost care to deal with everything with the respect it deserved and never offended against a proper sense of reverence.
The quote at the beginning might be a bit misleading because this is not a romance. A love story, yes, but not a romance. Elliot, a Navy Seal, who still has not found his place in the world, finds his inner peace and his soul mate in Ikolo, a doctor in a refugee camp, who tries to make amends for his past, and both had a chemistry that makes their connection just feel right.
Was this book perfect? No. The writing was simply beautiful without any restrictions this time and I loved that I got two men of color as main characters. There were a few inconsistencies, though, I deliberately turned a blind eye to since this book has been written within a month!!! and the ending was a bit too good to be true, both, for Elliot and Ikolo and for the situation itself, a solution the real world can only dream of. But this is fiction and the story will remain unforgettable for me. I also wanted the guys to be happy. Full stop!
His soul was on fire and his heart was unbound. His questions were answered. He'd found them in the body, heart, and soul of the man he held. There was a twilight inside him, the end of something, a door closing as another one opened. He belonged here, in this moment, in this place. In these arms.
Once in a while, Tal Bauer scrapes at my bubble of an idyllic world until it bursts and he gives me something to chew on. Heavily. We are talking about almost Whisper territory here. Umm, before you start to faint, no, not in length, but in topicality and the way the story affected me emotionally.
Soul on Fire deals with topics I read about marginally in the daily news, but it usually concerns people on the other side of the world. Ebola. Rebels. Refugee camps. Biological warfare. Victims of racism. So, aside from a small pang of sorrow and sympathy, why should I care more? This book provides background info I never even thought about and the author once again did an exceptional job with his research.
It is brutal, detailed, sometimes gory and also authentic and thought-provoking, with no sugar anywhere in sight to coat the ugly things. But he also took utmost care to deal with everything with the respect it deserved and never offended against a proper sense of reverence.
The quote at the beginning might be a bit misleading because this is not a romance. A love story, yes, but not a romance. Elliot, a Navy Seal, who still has not found his place in the world, finds his inner peace and his soul mate in Ikolo, a doctor in a refugee camp, who tries to make amends for his past, and both had a chemistry that makes their connection just feel right.
Was this book perfect? No. The writing was simply beautiful without any restrictions this time and I loved that I got two men of color as main characters. There were a few inconsistencies, though, I deliberately turned a blind eye to since this book has been written within a month!!! and the ending was a bit too good to be true, both, for Elliot and Ikolo and for the situation itself, a solution the real world can only dream of. But this is fiction and the story will remain unforgettable for me. I also wanted the guys to be happy. Full stop!
August 4, 2019
Ruthless.
Unforgiving.
Haunting.
This book nearly broke me.
I can’t say I loved it. But I certainly cherished parts.
I can’t say I hated it. But I was definitely distraught a time or ten.
I’m still shaken. Rattled to my core. Once I catch my breath and my pulse settles, I’ll try and string more than a few rambles together.
All I can say for now is, it’s over and Deputy Samuel Gerard said it best... I’m glad. Cuz, damn, I need the rest.
•••
Okay, I’m back and have refreshed my reserves. I was running on fumes and could barely hold my head up before. This book consumed me, day and night for days!
I’ve decided the “mystery book grab” is not something that should be taken lightly. At least for me. Ha! #lessonlearned
This was my first book by Tal. (I know, I know, where have I been?!)
I had no clue what it was about when I requested it. No title. No cover. No blurb.
Now I know why (btw I’m totally awestruck that this was written in a month. Mad respect for Bauer) but at the time, I was clueless.
It was a bit like...playing with fire.
And yes, I was burned.
At the time I was upset. I was unsettled. Yet, for every step backward I took, the story pushed two forward.
It was...in your face.
It was...look at me.
It was...now do you see? Good. Don’t forget.
Oh...I promise I won’t.
Elliot and Ikolo meet under dreadful conditions. It seems impossible to consider romance existing in the middle of an Ebola crisis in the Congo. And I would argue that this is not a romance.
But it IS a love story.
A hauntingly beautiful love story.
Two men face insurmountable challenges.
It’s as if they are tightrope walking blindfolded over a minefield towards an inferno and every precarious step is hotter than the last. The flames lick and singe until the inevitable combustion blows. And accepting the blaze is the only option.
Souls catch fire...and they weren’t alone.
I won’t lie, this book hurts.
But it also gives you hope.
And there’s no greater gift a book can give you than that.
So, Tal, it was nice to meet you. I have a feeling I’ll be seeing you again. But not right away! My battered heart can’t take anything that bites back for awhile.
This is one of those profound experiences that I don’t quite feel comfortable recommending unless I know you personally.
But I will say, this extraordinary story touched me deeply and will remain with me forevermore.
*4.5 spark-sizzle-scorch stars*
Book UNfunk
Unforgiving.
Haunting.
This book nearly broke me.
I can’t say I loved it. But I certainly cherished parts.
I can’t say I hated it. But I was definitely distraught a time or ten.
I’m still shaken. Rattled to my core. Once I catch my breath and my pulse settles, I’ll try and string more than a few rambles together.
All I can say for now is, it’s over and Deputy Samuel Gerard said it best... I’m glad. Cuz, damn, I need the rest.
•••
Okay, I’m back and have refreshed my reserves. I was running on fumes and could barely hold my head up before. This book consumed me, day and night for days!
I’ve decided the “mystery book grab” is not something that should be taken lightly. At least for me. Ha! #lessonlearned
This was my first book by Tal. (I know, I know, where have I been?!)
I had no clue what it was about when I requested it. No title. No cover. No blurb.
Now I know why (btw I’m totally awestruck that this was written in a month. Mad respect for Bauer) but at the time, I was clueless.
It was a bit like...playing with fire.
And yes, I was burned.
At the time I was upset. I was unsettled. Yet, for every step backward I took, the story pushed two forward.
It was...in your face.
It was...look at me.
It was...now do you see? Good. Don’t forget.
Oh...I promise I won’t.
Elliot and Ikolo meet under dreadful conditions. It seems impossible to consider romance existing in the middle of an Ebola crisis in the Congo. And I would argue that this is not a romance.
But it IS a love story.
A hauntingly beautiful love story.
Two men face insurmountable challenges.
It’s as if they are tightrope walking blindfolded over a minefield towards an inferno and every precarious step is hotter than the last. The flames lick and singe until the inevitable combustion blows. And accepting the blaze is the only option.
Souls catch fire...and they weren’t alone.
I won’t lie, this book hurts.
But it also gives you hope.
And there’s no greater gift a book can give you than that.
So, Tal, it was nice to meet you. I have a feeling I’ll be seeing you again. But not right away! My battered heart can’t take anything that bites back for awhile.
This is one of those profound experiences that I don’t quite feel comfortable recommending unless I know you personally.
But I will say, this extraordinary story touched me deeply and will remain with me forevermore.
*4.5 spark-sizzle-scorch stars*
Book UNfunk
October 30, 2023
4/5
This wasn't exactly what I expected after reading the blurb, but once I started, I couldn't put it down. I literally read it in one breath, because I just had to know how it would end. Thankfully, it ended as it should have, although my heart stopped at one point.
I'm so happy that our main characters got their happy ending. Ikolo and Elliot deserve the world. They were the most wonderful people and I'm so glad they found each other despite the circumstances in which it happened. The book didn't focus on the romance part, and our main characters didn't meet until later in the book, but I still loved their relationship. This book didn't give the typical Tal Bauer slow burn vibes, as they kissed and more after a day of knowing each other, but surprisingly that didn't bother me here. The tension between them was incredible, so that must be why.
The characters simply stole my heart. I don't know why I didn't decide to read this book sooner.
This wasn't exactly what I expected after reading the blurb, but once I started, I couldn't put it down. I literally read it in one breath, because I just had to know how it would end. Thankfully, it ended as it should have, although my heart stopped at one point.
I'm so happy that our main characters got their happy ending. Ikolo and Elliot deserve the world. They were the most wonderful people and I'm so glad they found each other despite the circumstances in which it happened. The book didn't focus on the romance part, and our main characters didn't meet until later in the book, but I still loved their relationship. This book didn't give the typical Tal Bauer slow burn vibes, as they kissed and more after a day of knowing each other, but surprisingly that didn't bother me here. The tension between them was incredible, so that must be why.
"Ikolo chuckled, a tiny smile playing over his lips. Elliot wanted to drown in that smile, tease it out, make Ikolo laugh and break out into the wide, wonderful smile that stopped his heart."
The characters simply stole my heart. I don't know why I didn't decide to read this book sooner.
August 1, 2019
Simply stunning. I'm not really sure what to say about this book, especially considering that Tal wrote it in less than a month after his readers gave him the trope in his Facebook author group.
It is incredibly detailed, a fascinating and quite heartbreaking tale about Africa and the wars, colonialism and corruption which have caused such misery across the continent.
It's also a tale about heroism, about doing the right thing even though it may cost you your life. It's about finding love in the unlikeliest of places and it's about international cooperation to prevent a disaster of unimaginable consequences.
I adored it and couldn't put it down once I started reading. The adrenaline rush to the finish had my heart pounding.
ETA: I also forgot to mention in my rush to get my review done in time, that it was a refreshing change for both the main heroes of this narrative to be men of colour. Elliot is an African-American Navy SEAL Lieutenant and Ikolo is a Congolese man who has returned to his strife-ridden country as a medical doctor.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
It is incredibly detailed, a fascinating and quite heartbreaking tale about Africa and the wars, colonialism and corruption which have caused such misery across the continent.
It's also a tale about heroism, about doing the right thing even though it may cost you your life. It's about finding love in the unlikeliest of places and it's about international cooperation to prevent a disaster of unimaginable consequences.
I adored it and couldn't put it down once I started reading. The adrenaline rush to the finish had my heart pounding.
ETA: I also forgot to mention in my rush to get my review done in time, that it was a refreshing change for both the main heroes of this narrative to be men of colour. Elliot is an African-American Navy SEAL Lieutenant and Ikolo is a Congolese man who has returned to his strife-ridden country as a medical doctor.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
July 5, 2023
Peeps. I just finished a reread of this old favorite and I can't believe it isn't more known
This book has TWO POC characters, one African American and the other Congolese, who fall in love in the midst of pursuing a terrorist during the Ebola Outbreak.
It has nonstop action, thrill and romance from beginning to end.
In true Tal Bauer fashion, the book is researched masterfully to create the most realistic setting and plot.
This book has TWO POC characters, one African American and the other Congolese, who fall in love in the midst of pursuing a terrorist during the Ebola Outbreak.
It has nonstop action, thrill and romance from beginning to end.
In true Tal Bauer fashion, the book is researched masterfully to create the most realistic setting and plot.
September 5, 2019
***** Award winning, masterful author, Tal Bauer, gives us another fictional, gay romantic thriller. This time we follow a Navy SEAL, hardcore, top-notch, no nonsense Lt. Elliot Davis, a black American officer, fighting the evil in Africa with his team.
The USS Dallas lies off the east coast where Elliot's team disarms a Somali pirate boat. Next up, an evacuation in the Congo, where he meets exhausted Dr. Ikolo Ngonda,
a dedicated doctor on the front lines of rebel fighting and deadly diseases. The African native doctor is worn out and jaded by all that he's seen.
A reporter and then a woman have information and clues to an upcoming attack. A shocking discovery of how the rebels spread the Ebola virus is evil incarnate. We have Elliot's tale from childhood and his prejudiced treatment, unfair events, and the constant awareness of his difference from the white person's world. We see how he came to be a Navy SEAL, his dedication and the fire in his soul, to the hurdles, bad treatment and prejudice he continues to find.
We watch the treacherous journey, deplorable conditions and then their quest takes a turn. Evil has turned on it's own people, with two despicable rebels, Idrissa and Majambu, with no hearts, who are corrupt to their core. Plans change, kids are rescued, a Chinese ally, Elliot and Dr. Ikolo are traveling west to stop a nuclear plot.
Deep passions, dark corners, caring people, innocent casualties, and strong men who endure. There are tender moments stolen, where first time M/M sex is found for Elliot with Ikolo.
The plot reveal had me on the edge of my seat as I realized this could really happen today, but of course, this is fiction based on an overall truthful world. You'll be shocked and engrossed as I was. Magnificent action, non-stop suspense and dedication from every side in this thriller.
Riveting, profound, thought-filled and treacherous. Fantastic.
Highly recommended. This author is an automatic choice for me.
ENJOY !
=======
The USS Dallas lies off the east coast where Elliot's team disarms a Somali pirate boat. Next up, an evacuation in the Congo, where he meets exhausted Dr. Ikolo Ngonda,
a dedicated doctor on the front lines of rebel fighting and deadly diseases. The African native doctor is worn out and jaded by all that he's seen.
A reporter and then a woman have information and clues to an upcoming attack. A shocking discovery of how the rebels spread the Ebola virus is evil incarnate. We have Elliot's tale from childhood and his prejudiced treatment, unfair events, and the constant awareness of his difference from the white person's world. We see how he came to be a Navy SEAL, his dedication and the fire in his soul, to the hurdles, bad treatment and prejudice he continues to find.
We watch the treacherous journey, deplorable conditions and then their quest takes a turn. Evil has turned on it's own people, with two despicable rebels, Idrissa and Majambu, with no hearts, who are corrupt to their core. Plans change, kids are rescued, a Chinese ally, Elliot and Dr. Ikolo are traveling west to stop a nuclear plot.
Deep passions, dark corners, caring people, innocent casualties, and strong men who endure. There are tender moments stolen, where first time M/M sex is found for Elliot with Ikolo.
The plot reveal had me on the edge of my seat as I realized this could really happen today, but of course, this is fiction based on an overall truthful world. You'll be shocked and engrossed as I was. Magnificent action, non-stop suspense and dedication from every side in this thriller.
Riveting, profound, thought-filled and treacherous. Fantastic.
Highly recommended. This author is an automatic choice for me.
ENJOY !
=======
August 6, 2019
4.5 stars!
So I saw from other reviews that this was written in a month. A month!
To be honest, if this hadn't been written in just one month, I probably would have rounded down to 4 stars instead of rounding up to 5. But I'm giving credit where credit is due and for this to have been written as well as it was in only a month? Whew yeah, some of the little niggles here and there don't bother me as much as they normally would.
I'm mainly giving .5 stars off for that slow beginning. I know Tal likes to set up his stories and embroil us in these amazing stories and worlds he puts us in, but sometimes his beginnings are just too slow with all the info dumps and not enough of the romance. And with this, we didn't even get our MC's meeting until about the 30% mark or so. It got a little frustrating, ngl. Not that the beginning wasn't interesting, it was, but it wasn't grabbing my attention and keeping it. I took a lot of breaks with this one, especially in the beginning.
But once we did get Ikolo and Elliot together? I loved it. These two were great together and there was instant chemistry for me. (Part of the reason I would have rounded down with this is I just wanted more with these two, but what we did get was so so good and written in a months time that I'm letting it go)
Their connection was believable and there were these sweet, passionate moments interspersed with the action going on.
Also, the things dealt with in this book were very, very important and dealt with in a really well done way, with respect and grace. And because this is a romance and there'd be a riot if there was an unhappy ending, we thankfully did not get that. Things work out - and you can say magically if you want, but I didn't care. Elliot and Ikolo deserved their happiness, after all the shit they'd been put through. I love stories like this, with the heaps of angst but with an eventual happy ending, because who needs an unhappy one? We've already got real life for that shit.
For only being written in one month, this story generally held Bauer's quality writing throughout, and the romance was well built and strong throughout for me (so much so I wanted more. A few one shots of these two together and happy would be awesome.)
Overall I definitely recommend this, it is very much worth a read. And once Elliot and Ikolo meet the story really picks up and keeps going to the end. Two massive thumbs up from me! <3
***RC generously provided by the Alpha Book Club in exchange for an honest review.***
So I saw from other reviews that this was written in a month. A month!
To be honest, if this hadn't been written in just one month, I probably would have rounded down to 4 stars instead of rounding up to 5. But I'm giving credit where credit is due and for this to have been written as well as it was in only a month? Whew yeah, some of the little niggles here and there don't bother me as much as they normally would.
I'm mainly giving .5 stars off for that slow beginning. I know Tal likes to set up his stories and embroil us in these amazing stories and worlds he puts us in, but sometimes his beginnings are just too slow with all the info dumps and not enough of the romance. And with this, we didn't even get our MC's meeting until about the 30% mark or so. It got a little frustrating, ngl. Not that the beginning wasn't interesting, it was, but it wasn't grabbing my attention and keeping it. I took a lot of breaks with this one, especially in the beginning.
But once we did get Ikolo and Elliot together? I loved it. These two were great together and there was instant chemistry for me. (Part of the reason I would have rounded down with this is I just wanted more with these two, but what we did get was so so good and written in a months time that I'm letting it go)
Their connection was believable and there were these sweet, passionate moments interspersed with the action going on.
Also, the things dealt with in this book were very, very important and dealt with in a really well done way, with respect and grace. And because this is a romance and there'd be a riot if there was an unhappy ending, we thankfully did not get that. Things work out - and you can say magically if you want, but I didn't care. Elliot and Ikolo deserved their happiness, after all the shit they'd been put through. I love stories like this, with the heaps of angst but with an eventual happy ending, because who needs an unhappy one? We've already got real life for that shit.
For only being written in one month, this story generally held Bauer's quality writing throughout, and the romance was well built and strong throughout for me (so much so I wanted more. A few one shots of these two together and happy would be awesome.)
Overall I definitely recommend this, it is very much worth a read. And once Elliot and Ikolo meet the story really picks up and keeps going to the end. Two massive thumbs up from me! <3
***RC generously provided by the Alpha Book Club in exchange for an honest review.***
July 11, 2020
WOW
This is a powerful story. I couldn't have picked a more relevant time to read it.
This is a powerful story. I couldn't have picked a more relevant time to read it.
July 13, 2023
4.5 stars from me. Can I just start this review by saying how amazing is it that Tal researched, wrote and got everything else connected with this story done within one month?? A MONTH!! A fabulous writer indeed. Oh, and if you're looking for romance, you won't find a lot of it in this story 😕...it's first and foremost a suspense thriller.
Great to have 2 MC's, Elliot and Ikolo, who are persons of colour. We have the obligatory dash to the finish line to prevent a global biological catastrophe of biblical proportions [speaking of which, there are graphic descriptions of the effects of the Ebola virus, so if you have a sensitive stomach, just be aware]. The Congo is not the only country mentioned in the story...mention is also made of Rwanda, where mass genocide took place around 15 years ago. One of the uglier sides of Africa, tribal in-fighting, also appears unfortunately. The research that Tal [and others I've no doubt] puts into these stories is phenomenal.
Of course, as Elliot is a black US Navy SEAL, you can expect to read Tal's views on racial discrimination in the US. They feature prominently in the story, and it is absolutely correct that they are mentioned BUT the US does not just differentiate against people of whatever colour nowadays, but their sexual orientation too. Personally speaking, I have absolutely no doubt whatsoever that the US is regressing as a nation, not advancing 😔...and with that self-absorbed moron as POTUS, who is surprised??
"In the calculus of human life, a life should be equal to another life. One person’s existence was worth the same as another’s. He’d seen and he’d felt the opposite in his life, fuck, he had. He’d always come out on the losing end before: being black, being disregarded, being ignored and unwanted and cast aside. He knew in his bones that the human calculus didn’t add up the right way, but he’d never been on this side of that equation, on the heavy-handed side. He wasn’t just black here. He was American, too. He and Keise and Ikolo shared the same color, but the world put Elliot’s life, and his country’s lives, above theirs."
“We are used to despair in Africa. Especially here, in the Congo. We’re used to losing everything. It’s you Westerners who aren’t.”
"As a black man, he’d always been less than in people’s eyes. He’d been worth less. He meant less. His life was less, at one glance, than another man’s because of the color of his skin. At nineteen, he was thrown to the ground and beaten by a white police officer, the culmination of nineteen years of disregard, dismissal, disqualification. He’d been disenfranchised of his meaning to the world, robbed of the right to equal existence, and instead, was forced to swallow a bitterness the world said was truth: you will never amount to anything beyond what the world sees you as, black boy."
Great to have 2 MC's, Elliot and Ikolo, who are persons of colour. We have the obligatory dash to the finish line to prevent a global biological catastrophe of biblical proportions [speaking of which, there are graphic descriptions of the effects of the Ebola virus, so if you have a sensitive stomach, just be aware]. The Congo is not the only country mentioned in the story...mention is also made of Rwanda, where mass genocide took place around 15 years ago. One of the uglier sides of Africa, tribal in-fighting, also appears unfortunately. The research that Tal [and others I've no doubt] puts into these stories is phenomenal.
Of course, as Elliot is a black US Navy SEAL, you can expect to read Tal's views on racial discrimination in the US. They feature prominently in the story, and it is absolutely correct that they are mentioned BUT the US does not just differentiate against people of whatever colour nowadays, but their sexual orientation too. Personally speaking, I have absolutely no doubt whatsoever that the US is regressing as a nation, not advancing 😔...and with that self-absorbed moron as POTUS, who is surprised??
"In the calculus of human life, a life should be equal to another life. One person’s existence was worth the same as another’s. He’d seen and he’d felt the opposite in his life, fuck, he had. He’d always come out on the losing end before: being black, being disregarded, being ignored and unwanted and cast aside. He knew in his bones that the human calculus didn’t add up the right way, but he’d never been on this side of that equation, on the heavy-handed side. He wasn’t just black here. He was American, too. He and Keise and Ikolo shared the same color, but the world put Elliot’s life, and his country’s lives, above theirs."
“We are used to despair in Africa. Especially here, in the Congo. We’re used to losing everything. It’s you Westerners who aren’t.”
"As a black man, he’d always been less than in people’s eyes. He’d been worth less. He meant less. His life was less, at one glance, than another man’s because of the color of his skin. At nineteen, he was thrown to the ground and beaten by a white police officer, the culmination of nineteen years of disregard, dismissal, disqualification. He’d been disenfranchised of his meaning to the world, robbed of the right to equal existence, and instead, was forced to swallow a bitterness the world said was truth: you will never amount to anything beyond what the world sees you as, black boy."
July 29, 2019
'The mission has priority'
5+ stars for this exceptional book by Tal Bauer that is truly in a class of its own. This book is Tal Bauer at his absolute best: in depth research, captivating characters, nail biting story and exquisite writing.
'Racism was a corporeal thing that broke bodies, that killed men and women in both body and soul. Bones and hearts were broken together, airways and souls choked of life. Racism had dug its hands into his life and tried to break him, rip his body from his soul and destroy both halves of him.'
Tal did something a little different with this book. He set himself a challenge, and what a challenge it was. He started by putting a poll to his reader group and allowed them to choose the genre, then he set himself the task of writing it in ONE MONTH. All while keeping the group updated with his progress and excerpts as he went along. The fact that Tal wrote a book at this level in less than a month is truly outstanding and is a true testament to his talent and creativity.
As always with Tal there are two main characters at the centre of this story but the romance is by far the primary focus. What makes Tal's books special is his ability to write a thrilling, enthralling story interwoven with a beautiful and believable romance.
'His soul was on fire and his heart was unbound. His questions were answered. He’d found them in the body, heart, and soul of the man he held. There was a twilight inside him, the end of something, a door closing as another one opened. He belonged here, in this moment, in this place. In these arms.'
Ikolo Ngondu is a doctor who runs a refugee hospital in the Congo. Lieutenant Elliot Davis is a US Navy SEAL sent to the Congo to rescue and evacuate CIA operatives. Their paths cross in the most unusual way but circumstances force them to work together. Through their time together in the depths of the Congo jungle fighting for their lives and trying to save the world they acknowledge and embrace their feelings for each other.
'Flying face-first through the forest in the center of Africa’s broken heart, his arms around the man whose heartbeat he was learning to set his compass to, he finally—finally—was free. He buried his face in Ikolo’s neck as his soul caught fire.'
I won't spoil any more of the story, as always with Tal's books the joy of reading them and unfurling the twists and turns are what makes them so riveting.
'He’d never even built a dream for his life. He didn’t know how to dream, not in a world that told him a thousand different ways, a thousand different days, that he wasn’t wanted.'
Tal's writing throughout this story is simply beautiful. The way he describes central Africa - often ignored and overlooked by the world - and brings the Congo forest to life is impressive. The two main characters are developed to perfection and the secondary characters in this story add so much to the overall world building that Tal is so good at.
'There were rights and there were wrongs. He knew it. Everyone knew it, even if they turned their backs and pretended they weren’t involved. Ignorance only went so far before it became complicity.'
The sheer level of research behind this book is remarkable. How he did this in under a month I will never be able to compute. Did he sleep at all?!. The detailed descriptions and knowledge behind every aspect of this book allows you to feel immersed completely and makes you take a step back and think 'wow this could actually happen'. The realism and authenticity in this book is astonishing.
Take a bow Mr Bauer, you have outdone even your own exceptionally high standards.
September 8, 2019
Edited after I slept ...
The end is so not in line with everything else that is stated in the book and thus so far from reality that I remove a full star.
How can you both show how hypocritical the behavior of the US and all other so-called super-powers is and still make the book end like a good old blockbuster with the Americans and Chinese acting like heroes at the end ?
End of rant.
Original review
4.5 stars rounded up
« You will watch.You will keep your eyes opened »
A beautiful story of a soul searching and finding itself.
The only reason for the half star removal is the oversimplified and thoroughly utopian ending of the geopolitical situation.
The end is so not in line with everything else that is stated in the book and thus so far from reality that I remove a full star.
How can you both show how hypocritical the behavior of the US and all other so-called super-powers is and still make the book end like a good old blockbuster with the Americans and Chinese acting like heroes at the end ?
End of rant.
Original review
4.5 stars rounded up
« You will watch.You will keep your eyes opened »
A beautiful story of a soul searching and finding itself.
The only reason for the half star removal is the oversimplified and thoroughly utopian ending of the geopolitical situation.
August 15, 2019
4.5 stars - I’m a huge fan of Tal’s writing, so I grabbed this one without really thinking too much about it. This turned out to be exactly what I expected from him, yet totally different at the same time. I generally feel as though I’m reading a John Grishamesque story with the added bonus of gay characters. This time around, things went off in another direction and another country altogether. We have military special forces on a mission to thwart a potential bioterrorism attack originating in the Congo. It starts out slow giving the gruesome background of not only the Ebola virus but the plight of the indigenous people.
As I said, the beginning is a little slow, but it picks up when you realize who the potential couple is and the adventure, if you can call it that, that they must undertake together. What a conundrum Mr. Bauer puts us in wanting to care about the couple and see them find a way to be together, while the sole purposes of the story, getting to the bottom of who the players are and preventing them from succeeding. That seemed to be the main theme here. Do you help those in the immediate path or bypass them to prevent the greater fallout.
I found this to be rather depressing most of the time – but, at the same time, I felt I had to hear the struggles of these people. There are definitely a lot of really evil people in this world. Further, if you have a weak stomach, this might be touchy for you. The symptoms and fallout of the Ebola virus are described in detail and not good in any sense. I hope Mr. Bauer took some major leeway with this part, although given his penchant for researching his stories, I’m not very hopeful. To that end, I heard this was written in a month. That just doesn’t even seem possible given the quality of the writing, the depth of the research that must have been involved, etc. Needless to say, it didn’t take long for me to be engrossed and turning pages to find out what happened. This story ends on a pretty happy note, so I’ll let you know that it is definitely worth the heartache to get there. Due to the slow beginning and a little bit of a preachy/political soapbox (i.e. black men can’t succeed, yet that same main character is a decorated Navy SEAL; the USA is evil, yet we are the ones trying to help though it is never enough, etc.) feel every now and then, I had to drop a half star, but if you’ve not read this author before, I highly recommend you do so. The books are well thought out, well written and have a very thorough and polished feel to them.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
As I said, the beginning is a little slow, but it picks up when you realize who the potential couple is and the adventure, if you can call it that, that they must undertake together. What a conundrum Mr. Bauer puts us in wanting to care about the couple and see them find a way to be together, while the sole purposes of the story, getting to the bottom of who the players are and preventing them from succeeding. That seemed to be the main theme here. Do you help those in the immediate path or bypass them to prevent the greater fallout.
I found this to be rather depressing most of the time – but, at the same time, I felt I had to hear the struggles of these people. There are definitely a lot of really evil people in this world. Further, if you have a weak stomach, this might be touchy for you. The symptoms and fallout of the Ebola virus are described in detail and not good in any sense. I hope Mr. Bauer took some major leeway with this part, although given his penchant for researching his stories, I’m not very hopeful. To that end, I heard this was written in a month. That just doesn’t even seem possible given the quality of the writing, the depth of the research that must have been involved, etc. Needless to say, it didn’t take long for me to be engrossed and turning pages to find out what happened. This story ends on a pretty happy note, so I’ll let you know that it is definitely worth the heartache to get there. Due to the slow beginning and a little bit of a preachy/political soapbox (i.e. black men can’t succeed, yet that same main character is a decorated Navy SEAL; the USA is evil, yet we are the ones trying to help though it is never enough, etc.) feel every now and then, I had to drop a half star, but if you’ve not read this author before, I highly recommend you do so. The books are well thought out, well written and have a very thorough and polished feel to them.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
April 2, 2024
04/02/2024 reread
This is one of my favorites by Tal Bauer
07/17/2023 reread
06/20/2022 reread
This book started off intense, gruesome and heartfelt. Both MCs were introduced separately and the author gave me a chance to like them as individuals and later as a couple. This book was an eye opener for sure. Made me think about what I take for granted every day and what other people probably have never experienced in their lives. Added to that was the systemic racism that people of color encounter from their birth - Tal Bauer tackled this issue with tact, truth and passion. MCs thoughts were riveting on the matter. Another point in favor of Tal Bauer's books for me is a always fleshed out villain that I can hate to my heart's content, that gets his just desserts in the end and makes me want to do a happy dance at their demise. Here it felt tenfold - the malign nature of greed and hatred.
As always the story wasn't cut and dry and revolved around seemingly random events and countries that later came together into a fascinating puzzle of political intrigue, international relations, humanitarian aid and human nature to find the truth. At one point it felt that this story was in the same world as Executive Office series. The author delved deep into mind set and lives of Congolese people and what it took to survive living in Congo. For such a short read it packed a lot of emotion and human struggle.
I really liked Ikolo. His stance on life, his willingness to help and sacrifice and his ability to bring comfort even in the most dire circumstances made him an exceptional man. I enjoyed his everyday work, his interactions with his colleagues and how brave he was throughout the book. There was more to him than what he showed on the surface. Elliot was a very conflicted man. Some people can find their center when they are finally at peace, but Elliot needed to face the worst of humanity, to go through mortal danger and face his harshest demons to find his purpose and finally be one with himself. And in part it was thanks to Ikolo and his quiet acceptance and support. Those two were so beautiful together. They forged a strong bond that with time developed into love and devotion. Awwww.
The book was well researched and detailed, intense, fast paced, mildly steamy and action packed. The characters were diverse, well written and fitted every situation to a tee. It all came together in such a spectacular fashion. I loved it. The end was satisfying. Tal Bauer didn't leave me hanging about what Elliot and Ikolo were doing with their personal and professional lives. One thing was sure - they were doing it together.
This is one of my favorites by Tal Bauer
07/17/2023 reread
06/20/2022 reread
This book started off intense, gruesome and heartfelt. Both MCs were introduced separately and the author gave me a chance to like them as individuals and later as a couple. This book was an eye opener for sure. Made me think about what I take for granted every day and what other people probably have never experienced in their lives. Added to that was the systemic racism that people of color encounter from their birth - Tal Bauer tackled this issue with tact, truth and passion. MCs thoughts were riveting on the matter. Another point in favor of Tal Bauer's books for me is a always fleshed out villain that I can hate to my heart's content, that gets his just desserts in the end and makes me want to do a happy dance at their demise. Here it felt tenfold - the malign nature of greed and hatred.
As always the story wasn't cut and dry and revolved around seemingly random events and countries that later came together into a fascinating puzzle of political intrigue, international relations, humanitarian aid and human nature to find the truth. At one point it felt that this story was in the same world as Executive Office series. The author delved deep into mind set and lives of Congolese people and what it took to survive living in Congo. For such a short read it packed a lot of emotion and human struggle.
I really liked Ikolo. His stance on life, his willingness to help and sacrifice and his ability to bring comfort even in the most dire circumstances made him an exceptional man. I enjoyed his everyday work, his interactions with his colleagues and how brave he was throughout the book. There was more to him than what he showed on the surface. Elliot was a very conflicted man. Some people can find their center when they are finally at peace, but Elliot needed to face the worst of humanity, to go through mortal danger and face his harshest demons to find his purpose and finally be one with himself. And in part it was thanks to Ikolo and his quiet acceptance and support. Those two were so beautiful together. They forged a strong bond that with time developed into love and devotion. Awwww.
The book was well researched and detailed, intense, fast paced, mildly steamy and action packed. The characters were diverse, well written and fitted every situation to a tee. It all came together in such a spectacular fashion. I loved it. The end was satisfying. Tal Bauer didn't leave me hanging about what Elliot and Ikolo were doing with their personal and professional lives. One thing was sure - they were doing it together.
August 8, 2020
This book started off intense, gruesome and heartfelt. Both MCs were introduced separately and the author gave me a chance to like them as individuals and later as a couple. This book was an eye opener for sure. Made me think about what I take for granted every day and what other people probably have never experienced in their lives. Added to that was the systemic racism that people of color encounter from their birth - Tal Bauer tackled this issue with tact, truth and passion. MCs thoughts were riveting on the matter. Another point in favor of Tal Bauer's books for me is a always fleshed out villain that I can hate to my heart's content, that gets his just desserts in the end and makes me want to do a happy dance at their demise. Here it felt tenfold - the malign nature of greed and hatred.
As always the story wasn't cut and dry and revolved around seemingly random events and countries that later came together into a fascinating puzzle of political intrigue, international relations, humanitarian aid and human nature to find the truth. At one point it felt that this story was in the same world as Executive Office series. The author delved deep into mind set and lives of Congolese people and what it took to survive living in Congo. For such a short read it packed a lot of emotion and human struggle.
I really liked Ikolo. His stance on life, his willingness to help and sacrifice and his ability to bring comfort even in the most dire circumstances made him an exceptional man. I enjoyed his everyday work, his interactions with his colleagues and how brave he was throughout the book. There was more to him than what he showed on the surface. Elliot was a very conflicted man. Some people can find their center when they are finally at peace, but Elliot needed to face the worst of humanity, to go through mortal danger and face his harshest demons to find his purpose and finally be one with himself. And in part it was thanks to Ikolo and his quiet acceptance and support. Those two were so beautiful together. They forged a strong bond that with time developed into love and devotion. Awwww.
The book was well researched and detailed, intense, fast paced, mildly steamy and action packed. The characters were diverse, well written and fitted every situation to a tee. It all came together in such a spectacular fashion. I loved it. The end was satisfying. Tal Bauer didn't leave me hanging about what Elliot and Ikolo were doing with their personal and professional lives. One thing was sure - they were doing it together.
As always the story wasn't cut and dry and revolved around seemingly random events and countries that later came together into a fascinating puzzle of political intrigue, international relations, humanitarian aid and human nature to find the truth. At one point it felt that this story was in the same world as Executive Office series. The author delved deep into mind set and lives of Congolese people and what it took to survive living in Congo. For such a short read it packed a lot of emotion and human struggle.
I really liked Ikolo. His stance on life, his willingness to help and sacrifice and his ability to bring comfort even in the most dire circumstances made him an exceptional man. I enjoyed his everyday work, his interactions with his colleagues and how brave he was throughout the book. There was more to him than what he showed on the surface. Elliot was a very conflicted man. Some people can find their center when they are finally at peace, but Elliot needed to face the worst of humanity, to go through mortal danger and face his harshest demons to find his purpose and finally be one with himself. And in part it was thanks to Ikolo and his quiet acceptance and support. Those two were so beautiful together. They forged a strong bond that with time developed into love and devotion. Awwww.
The book was well researched and detailed, intense, fast paced, mildly steamy and action packed. The characters were diverse, well written and fitted every situation to a tee. It all came together in such a spectacular fashion. I loved it. The end was satisfying. Tal Bauer didn't leave me hanging about what Elliot and Ikolo were doing with their personal and professional lives. One thing was sure - they were doing it together.
August 18, 2019
Tal Bauer sure knows how to paint a picture with words. And Soul on Fire is a gruesome picture at that. This time he takes us deep into the African jungle where wars are being fought on several fronts; Ebola is spreading through the country leaving dead villages in its wake, rebels are fighting for power and killing off anything and everyone standing in their way. Then there are the foreign powers, aid workers, UN and the spies alike spread out for different reasons. To say that the situation is precarious and dangerous is putting it mildly.
We saw this war, or rather wars being fought from so many sides, from so many point of views. From the doctor fighting to keep refugees alive, treating everything from stitching wounds to cancer and Ebola. Burying children that didn’t make it. We follow the US Navy SEAL tasked with finding and apprehending a dangerous rebel before causing even more death and destruction. And last but not least there are the rebels and their cause, and even the Chinese play a role in this. To say the least, Soul on Fire is as intricate a story that Bauer is known to create.
When I reached about 25 percent of the book I was still questioning who the main characters were – yes I’m still guilty of not reading the blurb, I just saw Bauer’s name and needed to read this story. Anyway, I was wondering about the MCs, and I was definitely wondering if there was going to be a love interest in there. Around halfway through, I had my answers to my first two questions, but found something new to ponder. I wasn’t sure where I wanted this story to go. I mean the fight being fought was so much bigger than these two men. Yet at the same time those two deserved every moment of happiness they could get. In the end though I think Bauer handled it with aplomb.
Reading this book makes you, or at least me, ask some tough questions. How far and how much are we willing to sacrifice to save innocent lives? And how can you prioritise one life over another – what life is more important? Do you chose to help the girl in a village no one has ever heard of, that might just decimate all of it or go after the big bad? Do you take out a town overrun by an infectious disease (killing innocents) in hopes to keep the decease from spreading to millions more? These are scary questions, but what’s even scarier is that somewhere in the world those questions are asked, and someone will answer them. There are no winners in war, only loss.
Soul on Fire is a story that will touch you in one way or another. It’s raw and honest and real. So, so real. It will open your eyes, make you bleed in the best and worst ways. And for the life of me I can’t understand how Bauer managed to write and publish this story in less than a month, because the level of details in this book is truly astounding.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
We saw this war, or rather wars being fought from so many sides, from so many point of views. From the doctor fighting to keep refugees alive, treating everything from stitching wounds to cancer and Ebola. Burying children that didn’t make it. We follow the US Navy SEAL tasked with finding and apprehending a dangerous rebel before causing even more death and destruction. And last but not least there are the rebels and their cause, and even the Chinese play a role in this. To say the least, Soul on Fire is as intricate a story that Bauer is known to create.
When I reached about 25 percent of the book I was still questioning who the main characters were – yes I’m still guilty of not reading the blurb, I just saw Bauer’s name and needed to read this story. Anyway, I was wondering about the MCs, and I was definitely wondering if there was going to be a love interest in there. Around halfway through, I had my answers to my first two questions, but found something new to ponder. I wasn’t sure where I wanted this story to go. I mean the fight being fought was so much bigger than these two men. Yet at the same time those two deserved every moment of happiness they could get. In the end though I think Bauer handled it with aplomb.
Reading this book makes you, or at least me, ask some tough questions. How far and how much are we willing to sacrifice to save innocent lives? And how can you prioritise one life over another – what life is more important? Do you chose to help the girl in a village no one has ever heard of, that might just decimate all of it or go after the big bad? Do you take out a town overrun by an infectious disease (killing innocents) in hopes to keep the decease from spreading to millions more? These are scary questions, but what’s even scarier is that somewhere in the world those questions are asked, and someone will answer them. There are no winners in war, only loss.
Soul on Fire is a story that will touch you in one way or another. It’s raw and honest and real. So, so real. It will open your eyes, make you bleed in the best and worst ways. And for the life of me I can’t understand how Bauer managed to write and publish this story in less than a month, because the level of details in this book is truly astounding.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
July 31, 2019
This story was incredibly well done. It's obvious that Tal Bauer did his homework because so much went into this to make it such a perfect book.
Full of the horrors of biological warfare, the Congo and its dense forests are the backdrop to this edge of your seat story. While chasing a terrorist, Lieutenant Elliot Davis, US Navy SEAL teams up with Dr. Ikolo Ngondu, the man who's trying to save as many innocents as he can. Together, they follow the track deep into the forests, meeting people who've been infected with Ebola along the way.
To me, the excitement never ended. There were so many scenes that were so clearly described I could see them perfectly in my mind. Many were heartbreaking. But when it comes to the development of the relationship between Elliot and Ikolo, I was amazed. While their romance was not the prime focus of the story, each segment written about them was so poetic and fiery, it was incredibly poignant.
This was actually my first Tal Bauer read and now that I know what I've been missing, it definitely will not be my last. This was wonderfully written and a beautiful read.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*
Full of the horrors of biological warfare, the Congo and its dense forests are the backdrop to this edge of your seat story. While chasing a terrorist, Lieutenant Elliot Davis, US Navy SEAL teams up with Dr. Ikolo Ngondu, the man who's trying to save as many innocents as he can. Together, they follow the track deep into the forests, meeting people who've been infected with Ebola along the way.
To me, the excitement never ended. There were so many scenes that were so clearly described I could see them perfectly in my mind. Many were heartbreaking. But when it comes to the development of the relationship between Elliot and Ikolo, I was amazed. While their romance was not the prime focus of the story, each segment written about them was so poetic and fiery, it was incredibly poignant.
This was actually my first Tal Bauer read and now that I know what I've been missing, it definitely will not be my last. This was wonderfully written and a beautiful read.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*
August 28, 2019
I absolutely loved the first 60% of this book. It was a very unique setting and there were some fantastic discussions about a lot of really important things. It also made me google some stuff and I love a book that helps me learn. I knew about the Rwanda genocide of course but didn't really understand how much fallout some countries are still dealing with as a result.
The last 20% or so lost me a bit. It was very action movie like and pretty unrealistic. I would have liked to see more romance personally.
I'm still giving it a good rating and recommending it because I think there is a lot of great stuff here. I've read a lot of books about doctors in Africa but they've always been white people working through the UN etc. This was a nice change of pace. It was nice to see an African doctor as well as an African American Navy Seal. I think the discussions about race, the priorities of our government, what kind of aid helps and what hurts, etc were really well done and thought provoking. I also loved that the author included book recommendations of African authors in the back of the book.
The last 20% or so lost me a bit. It was very action movie like and pretty unrealistic. I would have liked to see more romance personally.
I'm still giving it a good rating and recommending it because I think there is a lot of great stuff here. I've read a lot of books about doctors in Africa but they've always been white people working through the UN etc. This was a nice change of pace. It was nice to see an African doctor as well as an African American Navy Seal. I think the discussions about race, the priorities of our government, what kind of aid helps and what hurts, etc were really well done and thought provoking. I also loved that the author included book recommendations of African authors in the back of the book.
October 3, 2019
3.5 stars
January 21, 2023
Most people write me off when they see me.
They do not know my story.
They say I am just an African.
They judge me before they get to know me.
What they do not know is...
“Soul on Fire” was exhausting yet thrilling to read. The entire book takes place in Congo during the Ebola outbreak and the author does not hold back in describing how devastating and traumatic it is living there. The opening chapter was gruesome, describing how the children were the first to get sick, all while having to flee their homes due to attacks by rebel groups. The amount of detail provided shows how much effort was put in research and I’m shocked that this took a month to write.
Lieutenant Elliot Davis is a US Navy SEAL of African-American descent. All his life he’s been told by those around him that he would amount to nothing. His teachers disregard him, his neighbours fear or look down on him and the police see his existence as a threat. He struggled all his life wanting acceptance and hoped to find it in the army. They see no skin colour, he was told, but as he stands before his white superiors being shot down when he suggests offering the African civilians aid, he remembers that the world is not kind to those of darker skin, especially not those of ‘The Dark Continent’. Even the aid they provide at the end of the book is because they have assets they wish to protect.
He was a teenager who craved a world that didn’t discard him at a single glance. He wanted a dream, but the world wouldn’t let him have one. He wanted a future in a world that looked deeper and saw who he really was, and that didn’t just stop at the color of his skin.
But for centuries, black skin had defined what a person was far more than who they were in their heart and soul: a slave. A second-class citizen. A threat, someone dangerous, someone to be avoided. A criminal. He was less than. He was less deserving of life. He was less vital to the racist world.
Doctor Ikolo Ngondu runs a refugee camp, providing aid to those sick and in need of aid. He spends his every day tending to the sick and dying, all while having to beg for aid from foreigners who view their pain from a lens. With a background slowly revealed as we go on, Ikolo showed a strong character that regardless of the suffering he went through, he still went out of his way to help others. As Elliot described him, Ikolo was:
A man who lived through a holocaust of his country, the cataclysm of his soul, and came out the other side wanting to put his world and his people together again. A thousand different things could have broken Ikolo, but he never had.
His story is so traumatic and I just want to crawl into a bawl and weep over how his story is similar to many. Right now in present day, Congo is going through a holocaust so that the western world can benefit from its rich natural resources. The Ugandan and Rwandan military are being funded by the US, UK and France to invade regions filled with Coltan and no one gives a shit because it's Africa. Let’s not forget the genocide happening in Ethiopia right now. Africa aside, there’s an Uyghar genocide happening in China yet no one cares because they’re muslims. And our monarchical president keeps asking for loans from them and that money lines the pockets of corrupt politicians while he has the gall to stand on a podium and tell us he can’t do anything about it. I’m getting way off topic but it hurts that the lives of certain individuals matter less than others.
The pride I have in the blood that runs through my veins;
The pride I have in my rich culture and the history of my people;
The pride I have in my strong family ties and the deep connection to my community;
The pride I have in the African music, African art, and African dance;
The pride I have in my name and the meaning behind it.
There is a section where Ikolo is telling us of how it feels when foreign photographers come to get photos of suffering in Africa and it reminded me of ‘The Vulture and the Little Girl’ photo, taken by Kevin Carter that won a Pulitzer Prize. The girl was starving, nearing death and the vulture stood by ready to grab her once she did. And the photographer just stood there, watching and waiting to take a photo.
It clawed at him, scraped him raw inside every time the mzungus wanted to photograph their tragedies. Take pictures of their lives and send them to the West, glorifying their agony and calling it art. Some of those photos won awards, the photographers earning thousands of dollars for the perfect, best shot. The shot that captured the most eloquent suffering, the best visceral gut-punch agonizing image of African suffering. Photos that the West looked at and moved on with no more than a sigh, or changed the channel. It wasn’t Western suffering.
After the photos were taken, all the photographers went home and left Ikolo and everyone else behind. Their lives were nothing but phantoms on film, insubstantial beyond apertures and shutter speeds.
None of those photographers had to live this life. No one who sighed at their anguish could step into the photo and smell the blood and the filth, the despair so thick in the air it was the only thing that could push the humidity away, or feel the exhaustion that tried to shred his arms and legs from his body. No one had to live beyond the edges of the photos except for them: Africans.
Like I said, this book is emotionally exhausting. The plot however, follows Ikolo and Elliot as they track down a rebel agent through the heart of Congo. The rebel group has weaponized the ebola pandemic but they are not sure to what end. As they travel through various villages on their hunt, Elliot is forced to realise that the world has lived in blissful ignorance of the atrocities being done so as to not disturb their peaceful lives. But ignorance only goes so far before it becomes complicity.
The romance between Ikolo and Elliot is a bit rushed. There’s not much foundation for their relationship but it was beautiful nonetheless. Elliot himself had repressed the fact that he was gay but flying face-first through the forest in the center of Africa’s broken heart, his arms around the man whose heartbeat he was learning to set his compass to, he finally—finally—was free.
His soul was on fire and his heart was unbound. His questions were answered. He’d found them in the body, heart, and soul of the man he held. There was a twilight inside him, the end of something, a door closing as another one opened. He belonged here, in this moment, in this place. In these arms.
Despite the suffering I went through reading this, the tears I shed at the reality of it all, there were moments of pride in between it all. In the description of the sense of community the Congolese portrayed. In the rich environment of the forest. In the culture and language of the people (the characters speaking kiswahili made me smile). I’m proud of being Kenyan. I’m proud of being African. And no one can take that away from me.
Just as my name has meaning, I too will live my life with meaning.
So you think I am nothing?
Don’t worry about what I am now,
For what I will be, I am gradually becoming.
I will raise my head high wherever I go
Because of my African pride,
And nobody will take that away from me
October 5, 2025
4.5 rounded to 5 🌟
August 13, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
I was caught up in this story from the very first moment and I found myself completely captivated by this book. Something about Tal Bauer’s writing just really resonates with me and this has to be among my favorite of his work. The story is beautiful and moving, haunting and devastating, and thrilling and exciting, all in one.
One of the things that always strikes me about Bauer’s books is the way he can bring a setting to life. It is not just the excellent way he establishes the sense of place, but also the way he brings the reader in to really connect with the culture and atmosphere. There is so much rich detail here about life in eastern Africa, and the Congo in particular. Everything from the types of trees in the jungle, to the food people eat, to the sights and smells just comes to life. I could completely picture the rustic hospital, the lush and forbidding jungle, and the remote, isolated villages. But even more, Bauer brings us into the hearts of the people who live there. There is just a deep sense of place and culture that really makes Bauer’s books sing and Soul on Fire is a perfect example.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
I was caught up in this story from the very first moment and I found myself completely captivated by this book. Something about Tal Bauer’s writing just really resonates with me and this has to be among my favorite of his work. The story is beautiful and moving, haunting and devastating, and thrilling and exciting, all in one.
One of the things that always strikes me about Bauer’s books is the way he can bring a setting to life. It is not just the excellent way he establishes the sense of place, but also the way he brings the reader in to really connect with the culture and atmosphere. There is so much rich detail here about life in eastern Africa, and the Congo in particular. Everything from the types of trees in the jungle, to the food people eat, to the sights and smells just comes to life. I could completely picture the rustic hospital, the lush and forbidding jungle, and the remote, isolated villages. But even more, Bauer brings us into the hearts of the people who live there. There is just a deep sense of place and culture that really makes Bauer’s books sing and Soul on Fire is a perfect example.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
July 31, 2019
Reading this book, you almost felt you were watching it on the big screen. The atmosphere and the tension are riveting and as with all the books I’ve read by the author, they’re just so incredibly polished.
The world building is extraordinary, you can clearly see in your minds eye where this story takes place and you feel like you’re right there with the characters every step of the way. The action and the tension never let up and, although there’s a threat to be neutralized, the relationship between the two men is never overshadowed. The way Elliot and Ikolo’s connection developed was remarkable and so very beautiful.
This is a story so rich and abundant that you’ll take this journey right along with the characters and be sucked into this world until the very end. This is an author who’s perfected their craft and what’s really impressive is the timeline Bauer set for himself, he invited his reader group to choose a topic, and he had one month to research, write and publish it, which blows my mind!
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
The world building is extraordinary, you can clearly see in your minds eye where this story takes place and you feel like you’re right there with the characters every step of the way. The action and the tension never let up and, although there’s a threat to be neutralized, the relationship between the two men is never overshadowed. The way Elliot and Ikolo’s connection developed was remarkable and so very beautiful.
This is a story so rich and abundant that you’ll take this journey right along with the characters and be sucked into this world until the very end. This is an author who’s perfected their craft and what’s really impressive is the timeline Bauer set for himself, he invited his reader group to choose a topic, and he had one month to research, write and publish it, which blows my mind!
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
January 13, 2022
Tal Bauer will never let me down.
This book was epic and wonderful. Tal managed to include sexual discovery amidst an ebola outbreak, gang turf wars, international terrorism, nuclear threat, and a humanitarian crisis without taking anything away from the terrifying action and main story line. I would not have thought it possible.
As always, Tal's prose pulled me into the story and the heart wrenching conditions people still endure and suffer in impoverished areas of the world. Tal created a world that was previously unknown to me with his description of the Republic of Congo and its people and it is a gorgeous, terrifying, deadly, and heart-breaking place.
With all the action, I could easily see this as a big budget movie. For the book, the only negative I have to add is that I wish the book was longer. Would love to know more of Ikolo and Elliot's backstory and more of them, together.
This book was epic and wonderful. Tal managed to include sexual discovery amidst an ebola outbreak, gang turf wars, international terrorism, nuclear threat, and a humanitarian crisis without taking anything away from the terrifying action and main story line. I would not have thought it possible.
As always, Tal's prose pulled me into the story and the heart wrenching conditions people still endure and suffer in impoverished areas of the world. Tal created a world that was previously unknown to me with his description of the Republic of Congo and its people and it is a gorgeous, terrifying, deadly, and heart-breaking place.
With all the action, I could easily see this as a big budget movie. For the book, the only negative I have to add is that I wish the book was longer. Would love to know more of Ikolo and Elliot's backstory and more of them, together.
September 10, 2019
What an amazing book from rebel warfare & Ebola in the Congo, an unexpected intense relationship to Chinese, North Korean & USA espionage two strangers from different worlds team up to save the world from biological warfare. I loved the two main characters & the plot was unexpectedly layered. I definitely will be reading more of this author’s books.
September 24, 2020
This was a tough read for many reasons, especially Elliot's battles, within himself, with the way he's marginalized because he's black, with a war between his conscience and his duty. But it's also a stark look at the way Africa, and her people, are either exploited or ignored unless there's a profit motive involved or something happens that threatens the comfortable lives of Westerners, and it's no wonder some groups have been radicalized to take action against who they see as their oppressors when they've been treated that way for so long. They've learned from the best worst.
As with Whisper, this book is well researched and Tal has done an incredible job with the characterization of Elliot and Ikolo. I truly think that were the MCs not gay men (and black) this would be made into a movie. Maybe in 10 or so years it could be...not because the love story wouldn't be all that controversial, but because it will take a while for more people to realize that to a lot of the world the US - and it's Western allies- are sometimes the bad guys. And many times we deserve that disdain.
Tal Bauer writes the stories that break me and give me hope at the same time. And if in this story, the US military has to save the day, at least it's a black sailor who does it. No white saviors here.
As with Whisper, this book is well researched and Tal has done an incredible job with the characterization of Elliot and Ikolo. I truly think that were the MCs not gay men (and black) this would be made into a movie. Maybe in 10 or so years it could be...not because the love story wouldn't be all that controversial, but because it will take a while for more people to realize that to a lot of the world the US - and it's Western allies- are sometimes the bad guys. And many times we deserve that disdain.
Tal Bauer writes the stories that break me and give me hope at the same time. And if in this story, the US military has to save the day, at least it's a black sailor who does it. No white saviors here.
September 3, 2023
Dr. Ikolo and Navy SEAL Elliot meet under dire circumstances. There’s a nuclear weapon on the loose and they need to find the person that has it PLUS Ebola has also broken out all over the Congo.
The deck is stacked against them but with sheer will they get their man. It’s a fascinating story of West vs East and all the wrongs that have occurred over the centuries. After reading the afterword, you knew Tal did a lot of heavy research. This is more than a love story between doctor and navy seal. It is a human rights story. Definitely a must read.
The deck is stacked against them but with sheer will they get their man. It’s a fascinating story of West vs East and all the wrongs that have occurred over the centuries. After reading the afterword, you knew Tal did a lot of heavy research. This is more than a love story between doctor and navy seal. It is a human rights story. Definitely a must read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2025
Dearest Tal, I am getting desperate now.
I am reaching into the deep cuts. The B sides. Trying to sponge up all the content that exists out there.
Of course, it is all still compelling and good. But I do hate all the assorted grim war and horror.
As always, I am here for the romance....and while I loved these MC's, their plight outshined the romance. Rare in a TB book. Not a criticism, this story was so informed and excellent. It just didn't melt me like some of his other works.
I am reaching into the deep cuts. The B sides. Trying to sponge up all the content that exists out there.
Of course, it is all still compelling and good. But I do hate all the assorted grim war and horror.
As always, I am here for the romance....and while I loved these MC's, their plight outshined the romance. Rare in a TB book. Not a criticism, this story was so informed and excellent. It just didn't melt me like some of his other works.
March 11, 2025
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
This book isn’t very long, but it took me a while to finish because it was so heavy. In true Tal Bauer fashion, it does not sugarcoat anything, and his work and life experience brings a level of realism you don’t get much of elsewhere. This book deals heavily with racism (in many forms), and it was handled really well.
He could love this man. He could love him until the end of time. Maybe he already did and was just uncovering a love that was already there and waiting for him. Did you fall in love with someone unknown, or did you find the person who completed you and paired your soul to theirs?
You of course get the usual edge-of-your-seat suspense and great action that you expect from Tal Bauer, and the descriptions of the Congo and its people were beautiful. In the middle of the heavy topics there’s a really sweet and genuine-feeling romance (of course).
31 years after the genocide in Rwanda and five years after this book was published, and there’s still war and conflict in DR Congo. There’s not a single theme or situation in this book that isn’t highly relevant today. Can’t recommend this book enough.
Evacuate. The region is about to be plunged into violent conflict. But this is when we need you most. What about us, who can’t evacuate? Where should we go when the fighting starts?
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Set in The Democratic Republic of the Congo
Navy SEAL Lieutenant
Black MCs
Congolese doctor
Romantic suspense
Hunting terrorists
First times
Sexual awakening
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Vomiting
Graphic details of a child getting sick and dying (on page)
Themes and details of displacement
Themes of war and conflict
Details of illness and death from infectious diseases)
Gun violence
Graphic gore (bodily fluids, dismembered bodies, etc.)
Gun violence
Injured side character (gunshot wound)
On-page graphic murder
Details of MC being racially profiled (past)
Themes of racism
Mentions of past racial profiling and physical assault/police brutality against MC
Epidemic outbreak
Themes of occupation and war
Refugee camp attacked and bombed
Injured MCs
Use of homophobic slur
Explicit sexual content
MC abducted and forced to be a child soldier (past)
Brief mention of minor character suicide (off page)
Attempted terrorist attack/suicide bombing
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, multi
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 32 and not specified
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 254
Happy ending: Yes
There were rights and there were wrongs. He knew it. Everyone knew it, even if they turned their backs and pretended they weren’t involved. Ignorance only went so far before it became complicity.
It clawed at him, scraped him raw inside every time the mzungus wanted to photograph their tragedies. Take pictures of their lives and send them to the West, glorifying their agony and calling it art.
The light and Ikolo’s touch revealed the truth Elliot had grasped in the dark and laid bare the answer to his question. He kissed Ikolo and felt his soul catch fire.
He was one man, but he was his own man, and he would not be complicit in the world’s hate.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
This book isn’t very long, but it took me a while to finish because it was so heavy. In true Tal Bauer fashion, it does not sugarcoat anything, and his work and life experience brings a level of realism you don’t get much of elsewhere. This book deals heavily with racism (in many forms), and it was handled really well.
He could love this man. He could love him until the end of time. Maybe he already did and was just uncovering a love that was already there and waiting for him. Did you fall in love with someone unknown, or did you find the person who completed you and paired your soul to theirs?
You of course get the usual edge-of-your-seat suspense and great action that you expect from Tal Bauer, and the descriptions of the Congo and its people were beautiful. In the middle of the heavy topics there’s a really sweet and genuine-feeling romance (of course).
31 years after the genocide in Rwanda and five years after this book was published, and there’s still war and conflict in DR Congo. There’s not a single theme or situation in this book that isn’t highly relevant today. Can’t recommend this book enough.
Evacuate. The region is about to be plunged into violent conflict. But this is when we need you most. What about us, who can’t evacuate? Where should we go when the fighting starts?
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Set in The Democratic Republic of the Congo
Navy SEAL Lieutenant
Black MCs
Congolese doctor
Romantic suspense
Hunting terrorists
First times
Sexual awakening
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Vomiting
Graphic details of a child getting sick and dying (on page)
Themes and details of displacement
Themes of war and conflict
Details of illness and death from infectious diseases)
Gun violence
Graphic gore (bodily fluids, dismembered bodies, etc.)
Gun violence
Injured side character (gunshot wound)
On-page graphic murder
Details of MC being racially profiled (past)
Themes of racism
Mentions of past racial profiling and physical assault/police brutality against MC
Epidemic outbreak
Themes of occupation and war
Refugee camp attacked and bombed
Injured MCs
Use of homophobic slur
Explicit sexual content
MC abducted and forced to be a child soldier (past)
Brief mention of minor character suicide (off page)
Attempted terrorist attack/suicide bombing
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, multi
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 32 and not specified
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 254
Happy ending: Yes
There were rights and there were wrongs. He knew it. Everyone knew it, even if they turned their backs and pretended they weren’t involved. Ignorance only went so far before it became complicity.
It clawed at him, scraped him raw inside every time the mzungus wanted to photograph their tragedies. Take pictures of their lives and send them to the West, glorifying their agony and calling it art.
The light and Ikolo’s touch revealed the truth Elliot had grasped in the dark and laid bare the answer to his question. He kissed Ikolo and felt his soul catch fire.
He was one man, but he was his own man, and he would not be complicit in the world’s hate.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
February 19, 2020
I'll be honest. I struggled with this book. So much in fact that I stopped half way through and reread a favourite of mine. Don't get me wrong, it was brilliant. It's deep, dark and quite brutal to be honest. And while the two MC's find love, I definitely don't classify this as romance.
Like everything I've read by this author it takes you by the hand and leads you on an adventure. Not really a fun adventure, but then again it's also not a fun topic that's at the heart of the book. I think part of what I struggled with was that I felt there was repetition. Certain things were said over and over again, and that never sits well with me. Also, as I've said before, it's a hard topic that this book is dealing with. It leaves you no wriggle room, nowhere to escape, just a profound depth of emotion.
Make no mistake, I'd recommend this book. I just feel anyone starting to read it needs to be aware that they won't walk away untouched.
Like everything I've read by this author it takes you by the hand and leads you on an adventure. Not really a fun adventure, but then again it's also not a fun topic that's at the heart of the book. I think part of what I struggled with was that I felt there was repetition. Certain things were said over and over again, and that never sits well with me. Also, as I've said before, it's a hard topic that this book is dealing with. It leaves you no wriggle room, nowhere to escape, just a profound depth of emotion.
Make no mistake, I'd recommend this book. I just feel anyone starting to read it needs to be aware that they won't walk away untouched.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews