What do you think?
Rate this book
Silver Creek #3
Strength Under Fire
New York Times bestselling author Lindsay McKenna returns to Silver Creek, Wyoming, where a Black Ops veteran finds the strength to fight again when a dangerous terrorist group comes after his beautiful boss . . .
Bereft after the brutal loss of her parents, Dana Scott sinks nearly every dime of her inheritance into buying Wildflower ranch, believing that once she restores the rustic cabin, and farms the untamed acreage, her soul will be whole once more. Hiring wrangler Colin Gallagher to help out just makes sense. But as she works side by side with the handsome loner, she feels an unexpected kinship, and a longing for connection she believed was lost to her forever . . .
Colin is only in Silver Creek long enough to make some money and move on. Restless, spiritually broken, the former Army Ranger has nothing left to give after his harrowing time in battle. But helping Dana make a life for herself has him yearning for more. Until the domestic terrorists that destroyed Dana’s family catch up with her, determined to silence her forever. It’s a threat that has Colin calling on all his considerable training to keep safe the woman who has taken hold of his heart . . .
Bereft after the brutal loss of her parents, Dana Scott sinks nearly every dime of her inheritance into buying Wildflower ranch, believing that once she restores the rustic cabin, and farms the untamed acreage, her soul will be whole once more. Hiring wrangler Colin Gallagher to help out just makes sense. But as she works side by side with the handsome loner, she feels an unexpected kinship, and a longing for connection she believed was lost to her forever . . .
Colin is only in Silver Creek long enough to make some money and move on. Restless, spiritually broken, the former Army Ranger has nothing left to give after his harrowing time in battle. But helping Dana make a life for herself has him yearning for more. Until the domestic terrorists that destroyed Dana’s family catch up with her, determined to silence her forever. It’s a threat that has Colin calling on all his considerable training to keep safe the woman who has taken hold of his heart . . .
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 28, 2021
96 people are currently reading
686 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay McKenna
359 books2,500 followersI've lived six lives in one and it all shows up in the books I write, one way or another.
I was always a risk taker and broke mustangs at thirteen years old in Oregon. I learn to break them with love, not threat or pain.
At 17 years old, I picked night-crawlers (worms) out in our Oregon orchards from 9pm to midnight, every night. I earned enough money to buy my school clothes and book. I also plunked down $600 to a flight company at the Medford, Oregon airport and asked them to teach me...a girl...to fly. I soloed in 12 hours, which is average. From that time until I left for the US Navy at 18, I had accrued 39 hours of flight time in my Cessna 150 single engine airplane.
I was in the US military and was an AG3 (weather forecaster). There was no airplane club, so I couldn't fly when I was in the Navy. But I could look at the clouds in the sky ;-).
Later, I flew in a B-52 bomber for a day and night mission (18 hours total), a T-38 Talon jet, USAF, where I was riding in a "chase plane" on a test flight in a Dragonfly jet.
I was one of the first AFLA (American Fencing League of America) women fencers to fence with epee and sabre. These weapons were closed to women because they were too 'heavy' for a female to handle. I said baloney and fought the males and won half my bouts. I was part of a surge of women fencers on the East Coast in the 1970's to push for equality in the sport. Together, we changed the sport and changed the mind of the men. Today? In the Olympics? Women now fence in foil, epee and sabre, thanks to what we did as a vanguard showing the world it could be done.
I then became a volunteer firefighter when I was a civilian once more, the first woman in an all - male fire department in West Point, Ohio for three years. I became a local expert not only in firefighting, driving the engine and tanker trunks, but also had training in hazardous material (Reynoldsburg Fire Academy, Columbus, OH).
My books always reflect what I experienced. If you like edgy, gritty, deeply and emotionally intense love stories with sympathetic heroes and heroines, check out my newest series that will be available mid-Oct. 2015, and it incorporates much of what I have lived.
I was always a risk taker and broke mustangs at thirteen years old in Oregon. I learn to break them with love, not threat or pain.
At 17 years old, I picked night-crawlers (worms) out in our Oregon orchards from 9pm to midnight, every night. I earned enough money to buy my school clothes and book. I also plunked down $600 to a flight company at the Medford, Oregon airport and asked them to teach me...a girl...to fly. I soloed in 12 hours, which is average. From that time until I left for the US Navy at 18, I had accrued 39 hours of flight time in my Cessna 150 single engine airplane.
I was in the US military and was an AG3 (weather forecaster). There was no airplane club, so I couldn't fly when I was in the Navy. But I could look at the clouds in the sky ;-).
Later, I flew in a B-52 bomber for a day and night mission (18 hours total), a T-38 Talon jet, USAF, where I was riding in a "chase plane" on a test flight in a Dragonfly jet.
I was one of the first AFLA (American Fencing League of America) women fencers to fence with epee and sabre. These weapons were closed to women because they were too 'heavy' for a female to handle. I said baloney and fought the males and won half my bouts. I was part of a surge of women fencers on the East Coast in the 1970's to push for equality in the sport. Together, we changed the sport and changed the mind of the men. Today? In the Olympics? Women now fence in foil, epee and sabre, thanks to what we did as a vanguard showing the world it could be done.
I then became a volunteer firefighter when I was a civilian once more, the first woman in an all - male fire department in West Point, Ohio for three years. I became a local expert not only in firefighting, driving the engine and tanker trunks, but also had training in hazardous material (Reynoldsburg Fire Academy, Columbus, OH).
My books always reflect what I experienced. If you like edgy, gritty, deeply and emotionally intense love stories with sympathetic heroes and heroines, check out my newest series that will be available mid-Oct. 2015, and it incorporates much of what I have lived.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
August 28, 2021
Strength Under Fire
by Lindsay McKenna is the third book in the Silver Creek contemporary romantic suspense series. Dana Scott’s parents were murdered and she has moved from Oregon and purchased the small Wildflower Ranch near Silver Creek, Wyoming. She wants to restore the old log cabin and farm the fallow acreage. Wrangler and former Army Ranger Colin Gallagher is hired to help her. Both are suffering, but when dangerous criminals come to the valley, will they even survive?
Both Dana and Colin are likeable characters with friendship and chemistry that builds slowly over time. There is a comfortable energy between them, despite both of them suffering from PTSD. Their resilience and courage as well as their need for time alone made them feel more real and relatable. This was a slow build romance where two broken people suffering from horror, shock, and trauma slowly build friendship, trust, and a feeling of safety.
The secondary characters played background roles with several of them being in the previous two books in the series. This helped with continuity and added to the feeling of community that abounds in this series.
The writing and discussions gave me a strong sense of the Wildflower Ranch and the Silver Creek community. While it is portrayed as very idyllic and somewhat unrealistic, I wanted to believe in it and enjoyed it. This is a community that lives and works as a close family. Neighbor helps neighbor. Of course, this is offset by the introduction of the criminals to bring suspense and danger into this close knit community. The suspense part of this book started somewhat later in the book than I expected, but once it started, there was plenty of action and danger.
This book has a lot of details in it on topics as diverse as beekeeping, crop rotation, organic farming, and medicinal herbs. I felt this added depth and made the book more realistic. Additionally, I learned a lot while reading the novel. While it may have been a little over the top in some respects, it left me feeling good that people are finding innovative ways to save family ranches. The author did a great job of transporting me to this community with great world-building. The only steamy scene in the book is very near the end of the story. One quibble that I had was with the interchangeability between vegan and vegetarian. Early in the book, Dana says she is vegan. However, she uses butter and eats eggs which is more appropriate for a type of vegetarian. The other tendency that I noticed was the repetition of some topics when it wasn’t necessary to progress the story line.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was an entertaining book that was emotionally intense at times. The author did a good job of meshing the romance and the suspense without either suffering. If you are a fan of contemporary romantic suspense without instant love, then you may want to check out this series. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Kensington Books – Zebra and Lindsay McKenna provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for September 28, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
Both Dana and Colin are likeable characters with friendship and chemistry that builds slowly over time. There is a comfortable energy between them, despite both of them suffering from PTSD. Their resilience and courage as well as their need for time alone made them feel more real and relatable. This was a slow build romance where two broken people suffering from horror, shock, and trauma slowly build friendship, trust, and a feeling of safety.
The secondary characters played background roles with several of them being in the previous two books in the series. This helped with continuity and added to the feeling of community that abounds in this series.
The writing and discussions gave me a strong sense of the Wildflower Ranch and the Silver Creek community. While it is portrayed as very idyllic and somewhat unrealistic, I wanted to believe in it and enjoyed it. This is a community that lives and works as a close family. Neighbor helps neighbor. Of course, this is offset by the introduction of the criminals to bring suspense and danger into this close knit community. The suspense part of this book started somewhat later in the book than I expected, but once it started, there was plenty of action and danger.
This book has a lot of details in it on topics as diverse as beekeeping, crop rotation, organic farming, and medicinal herbs. I felt this added depth and made the book more realistic. Additionally, I learned a lot while reading the novel. While it may have been a little over the top in some respects, it left me feeling good that people are finding innovative ways to save family ranches. The author did a great job of transporting me to this community with great world-building. The only steamy scene in the book is very near the end of the story. One quibble that I had was with the interchangeability between vegan and vegetarian. Early in the book, Dana says she is vegan. However, she uses butter and eats eggs which is more appropriate for a type of vegetarian. The other tendency that I noticed was the repetition of some topics when it wasn’t necessary to progress the story line.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was an entertaining book that was emotionally intense at times. The author did a good job of meshing the romance and the suspense without either suffering. If you are a fan of contemporary romantic suspense without instant love, then you may want to check out this series. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Kensington Books – Zebra and Lindsay McKenna provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for September 28, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
August 29, 2021
ARC received for review
DNF
I don't think I've ever had a book piss me off so much that I didn't want to finish it. I've read multiple books by Ms. McKenna before and some I've like and some I haven't. This one....the heroine is vegan, not an issue I've been known to eat vegan once and a while, but they sit down to a big dinner and it's announced that all the women will be eating a vegan meal and the men will have meat....What The Feathers!!! I don't know why but that made me mad, if a woman wants to eat meat, let her. I can't read any more of it, and I've tried.
DNF
I don't think I've ever had a book piss me off so much that I didn't want to finish it. I've read multiple books by Ms. McKenna before and some I've like and some I haven't. This one....the heroine is vegan, not an issue I've been known to eat vegan once and a while, but they sit down to a big dinner and it's announced that all the women will be eating a vegan meal and the men will have meat....What The Feathers!!! I don't know why but that made me mad, if a woman wants to eat meat, let her. I can't read any more of it, and I've tried.
June 18, 2021
I received Strength Under Fire as part of a Net
Dana Scott arrives in Silver Creek after leaving a dark past behind her. She purchases a derelict ranch, intending to renovate it and start anew. She is touched by the generosity of the town's citizens, including Colin Gallagher, a wrangler who assists her in tending the property. Their proximity breeds a mutual attraction, but danger is afoot on Dana's land, a danger they must face if their relationship is going to move forward.
Hoo boy. This was...not for me. The characters and community were idealized to the point of parody, the holier-than-thou, inaccurate moralizing about organic foods, the purple prose, the cartoonish villains, the apparent lack of clarity on what a vegan is (hint: they don't eat butter), a :"finale" action scene that took up fully a quarter of the book. I always appreciate the time it comes in to craft a novel, but there was really nothing redeeming here.
Dana Scott arrives in Silver Creek after leaving a dark past behind her. She purchases a derelict ranch, intending to renovate it and start anew. She is touched by the generosity of the town's citizens, including Colin Gallagher, a wrangler who assists her in tending the property. Their proximity breeds a mutual attraction, but danger is afoot on Dana's land, a danger they must face if their relationship is going to move forward.
Hoo boy. This was...not for me. The characters and community were idealized to the point of parody, the holier-than-thou, inaccurate moralizing about organic foods, the purple prose, the cartoonish villains, the apparent lack of clarity on what a vegan is (hint: they don't eat butter), a :"finale" action scene that took up fully a quarter of the book. I always appreciate the time it comes in to craft a novel, but there was really nothing redeeming here.
September 29, 2021
In the most emotional story of the Silver Creek series, Dana Scott and Colin Gallagher are both beset by pain, albeit for very different reasons. Still saddened by the loss of her parents, Dana moved to Silver Creek, Wyoming and bought the Wildflower Ranch. It might have taken just about every last penny she had, but it offers a clean break. A fresh start. Something to replace the pain. At first glance the picturesque town touches Dana's heart. She is ready to get started and plans on restoring the ranch's cabin and bringing the acreage back to life. Advised to hire a wrangler, Dana is referred to Colin Gallagher.
Colin needs a job. He needs money in his pocket. And, he is a very hard worker. ex-military. Also, Colin is suffering from PTSD. All he wants is to do is to make enough money to start over again. What Colin did not plan was to begin to foster feelings for his new employer, Dana.
More about Dana's loss. Her parents were wonderful, but she lost them to domestic terrorists, and the nefarious group doesn't plan on stopping there. No, she is a loose string. Her life is in jeopardy and it doesn't take long for tentacles of danger to begin touching her. This brings out the protective instincts that are ingrained in Colin.
Strength Under Fire was definitely my favorite book of the series. I loved the previous two books, Silver Creek Fire and Courage Under Fire, but this had a different vibe to it, a more emotional, compelling edge. Dana and Colin needed love and hope and I loved watching their transition in that direction, even with danger looming at every turn.
Many thanks to Zebra and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Colin needs a job. He needs money in his pocket. And, he is a very hard worker. ex-military. Also, Colin is suffering from PTSD. All he wants is to do is to make enough money to start over again. What Colin did not plan was to begin to foster feelings for his new employer, Dana.
More about Dana's loss. Her parents were wonderful, but she lost them to domestic terrorists, and the nefarious group doesn't plan on stopping there. No, she is a loose string. Her life is in jeopardy and it doesn't take long for tentacles of danger to begin touching her. This brings out the protective instincts that are ingrained in Colin.
Strength Under Fire was definitely my favorite book of the series. I loved the previous two books, Silver Creek Fire and Courage Under Fire, but this had a different vibe to it, a more emotional, compelling edge. Dana and Colin needed love and hope and I loved watching their transition in that direction, even with danger looming at every turn.
Many thanks to Zebra and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
December 19, 2021
This is my first book by this author and it will be my last. The writing felt like it was done on auto-pilot. I literally felt nothing for the characters or their plight. The town matriarch throws money around like it grows on trees. I found it difficult to believe that a small ranching community in Wyoming was so into organic, non-GMO food. This is something found more in California than a traditionally conservative location.
I received an eARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received an eARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 21, 2021
I really wanted to like this one but gave up pretty quickly. The immediate hand outs to the heroine became super redundant and annoying plus unrealistic. Make her work for it or give her the means to supply these things herself. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2024
Kinda frustrated me and I had to force myself to finish it.
August 23, 2021
Strength Under Fire by Lindsay McKenna is the third book in the Silver Creek series. I have read the two previous novels in the series. The series focuses on an area in Wyoming called Silver Creek. The valley has a microclimate that is great for growing food and with the small town and help from other ranches, each novel opens another storyline between a couple.
Dana Scott, after the death of her family moved into the valley and bought a farm to start over again. She is determined to move forward with her life. From the beginning the valley farms embrace her and help her with supplies and other supports. Colin Gallagher is a hired hand at a local ranch but is lent out to her as her hired hand. He is kind, caring, and a hard worker, but there are shadows from his time in the military. Dana understands as she too has shadows from her parents death.
Together Colin and Dana find their way forward to start her new farm, put in crops and investigate the land. All is well until one day Dana’s foot goes through the floorboards of the old cabin on the property and finds money - lots and lots of money. Suddenly everything changes and there is fear.
I think I have enjoyed this novel the best so far. I didn’t find anything too preachy about the environment like I have in other novels in this series. I do think the valley is a bit of a dreamlike place and isn’t possibly real, but I don’t care in this series. Strength Under Fire by Lindsay McKenna is a romantic suspense novel with a great story line.
Dana Scott, after the death of her family moved into the valley and bought a farm to start over again. She is determined to move forward with her life. From the beginning the valley farms embrace her and help her with supplies and other supports. Colin Gallagher is a hired hand at a local ranch but is lent out to her as her hired hand. He is kind, caring, and a hard worker, but there are shadows from his time in the military. Dana understands as she too has shadows from her parents death.
Together Colin and Dana find their way forward to start her new farm, put in crops and investigate the land. All is well until one day Dana’s foot goes through the floorboards of the old cabin on the property and finds money - lots and lots of money. Suddenly everything changes and there is fear.
I think I have enjoyed this novel the best so far. I didn’t find anything too preachy about the environment like I have in other novels in this series. I do think the valley is a bit of a dreamlike place and isn’t possibly real, but I don’t care in this series. Strength Under Fire by Lindsay McKenna is a romantic suspense novel with a great story line.
October 9, 2021
ARC for honest review with no compensation Received from NetGalley
Strength Under Fire is book 3 in the Silver Creek series by Lindsay McKenna, slow developing but a great read.
Dana and Colin come together but have so much baggage it takes time to trust, help each other, build a friendship, know when to leave each to their own, communication and maybe find a way to show the love in their hearts for each other…
Strength Under Fire is book 3 in the Silver Creek series by Lindsay McKenna, slow developing but a great read.
Dana and Colin come together but have so much baggage it takes time to trust, help each other, build a friendship, know when to leave each to their own, communication and maybe find a way to show the love in their hearts for each other…
June 25, 2021
I always enjoy visiting Silver Creek - it is definitely a bit of an idyllic paradise - but the people and stories are really wonderful. This book is an emotional one and you can't read it if you aren't comfortable with two grown adults frankly and honestly talking about their emotions.
Both Dana and Colin have experienced significant trauma in their past - and are both suffering from PTSD. They are quiet, capable people who love working the land and are clearly two halves of a whole. Their physical relationship is definitely a slow-burn - but the love between them isn't. They definitely connect emotionally very quickly.
When they discover a white nationalist has hidden money on Dana's property things get very tense - and dangerous for both Dana and Colin. They both have to face their own traumatic pasts and figure out how to deal with everything that comes up.
One of the things I liked most about this book is the lack of drama between Colin and Dana in regards to their relationship. Their was definitely the potential for things to blow up between them - but they doubled down on communication and that didn't happen.
Overall - I really enjoyed this one - look forward to reading more!
Trigger warnings - .
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these o
Both Dana and Colin have experienced significant trauma in their past - and are both suffering from PTSD. They are quiet, capable people who love working the land and are clearly two halves of a whole. Their physical relationship is definitely a slow-burn - but the love between them isn't. They definitely connect emotionally very quickly.
When they discover a white nationalist has hidden money on Dana's property things get very tense - and dangerous for both Dana and Colin. They both have to face their own traumatic pasts and figure out how to deal with everything that comes up.
One of the things I liked most about this book is the lack of drama between Colin and Dana in regards to their relationship. Their was definitely the potential for things to blow up between them - but they doubled down on communication and that didn't happen.
Overall - I really enjoyed this one - look forward to reading more!
Trigger warnings - .
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these o
October 14, 2023
What a strange book…
Dana purchased a plot of land with a run down cabin on it. From there on, she is given everything she needs to run a ranch… for *FREE*. Simply so the grocery store owner could purchase crops / medicinal herb from her. What!?
• Tractor / tools
• A “handsome” ranch hand
• Quonset hut
• 1,920sqft double wide trailer
• 4 horses
• Beehives ($1,000/ea)
• A retired drug sniffing dog
• 3bed safe house
The only thing refreshing about this novel was that Colin didn’t do the typical romance novel “d-bag” act. Truthfully though, I don’t understand how they fell in love. They worked together every day, lived in the same home, but had one night of cuddling on the couch and it was love.
The money in the floorboards of her Wyoming cabin just so happened to trace back to the man who murdered her parents in Oregon. The man who had been put in prison, but somehow escaped to never be found. What a coincidence.
Dana purchased a plot of land with a run down cabin on it. From there on, she is given everything she needs to run a ranch… for *FREE*. Simply so the grocery store owner could purchase crops / medicinal herb from her. What!?
• Tractor / tools
• A “handsome” ranch hand
• Quonset hut
• 1,920sqft double wide trailer
• 4 horses
• Beehives ($1,000/ea)
• A retired drug sniffing dog
• 3bed safe house
The only thing refreshing about this novel was that Colin didn’t do the typical romance novel “d-bag” act. Truthfully though, I don’t understand how they fell in love. They worked together every day, lived in the same home, but had one night of cuddling on the couch and it was love.
The money in the floorboards of her Wyoming cabin just so happened to trace back to the man who murdered her parents in Oregon. The man who had been put in prison, but somehow escaped to never be found. What a coincidence.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2021
Another great visit to Silver Creek. Dana came to Silver Creek looking for peace after the brutal murders of her parents. The daughter of Oregon farmers, Dana researched growing conditions in communities around the west before choosing to buy Wildflower Ranch. After sinking almost every penny into the purchase, she needs a job to make ends meet until her first crops come in. The story opens as Dana prepares for an interview with Mary Bishop, the local organic market owner and force of nature within the community. One of Mary's projects is to encourage and help newcomers to the valley, and Dana is the latest to benefit. I loved the interview where Mary offered Dana unexpected levels of help, from equipment to a guaranteed market for her produce to the services of a wrangler. One of the things I've loved about this series is the idea of a community working together for the common good.
Colin works for Mary's son Chase on his ranch. A former Army Ranger, Colin has severe PTSD and wants a position where he can avoid being around many people. Chase, former military himself, has done his best to accommodate Colin's needs and happily loans Colin to Dana to help her out.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Colin and Dana develop. They recognize each other as kindred spirits right away. Both of them struggle with their pasts, feeling broken and empty, but discover unexpected energy between them. Living and working together gives them a chance to build a solid friendship and feelings of trust. I liked how they understood each other's occasional need to be alone to cope with memories without feeling left out or ignored. As the weeks go on and they get to know each other better, their friendship begins to deepen to something more. One of my favorite things is their willingness to communicate openly about their feelings, fears, and interest in seeing where it all goes. Both Dana and Colin hold back a little, wary of confessing their love and scaring the other one away.
When Dana stumbles on bags full of money hidden in her broken-down cabin, both she and Colin sense impending danger. Though Colin has attempted to bury his time as a Ranger, his protectiveness flares up, and his Ranger instincts resurface. After turning the money over to law enforcement, news of its connection to her past stuns Dana. The book takes an intense turn when Dana is abducted by those looking for the bags. I loved Dana's ability to keep her head despite her fear. I felt she held her own quite well when faced with the threat of death. Taking her fate into her own hands took some courage and determination.
At the same time, Colin witnessed the abduction from too far away to do anything about it. His fear for Dana sent him racing after her. I loved that he did so in a controlled manner, drawing on his Ranger experience. I was glued to the pages as he kept on her trail while keeping law enforcement in the loop. There were a couple of twists that changed the dynamics and brought danger closer to Colin and Dana. The final confrontation was terrific. I thought Colin showed amazing restraint, but his reasoning made sense for where he is in his life.
I loved the ending as Colin and Dana open up fully about their feelings. While neither is completely clear of their past hurts, both realize that together there is more light than darkness. I loved Colin's big moment and the evidence of how well he understands and loves Dana, and the profound effect she has had on his life and heart.
I always learn something new when I read a Lindsay McKenna book. I liked the emphasis on organic farming and learning a bit about how it's done. I also liked the parts about using herbs as medicines when possible while not disregarding modern medicine when needed.
The book finished with a teaser for the next Silver Creek story, and I can't wait to read it.
#netgalley
Colin works for Mary's son Chase on his ranch. A former Army Ranger, Colin has severe PTSD and wants a position where he can avoid being around many people. Chase, former military himself, has done his best to accommodate Colin's needs and happily loans Colin to Dana to help her out.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Colin and Dana develop. They recognize each other as kindred spirits right away. Both of them struggle with their pasts, feeling broken and empty, but discover unexpected energy between them. Living and working together gives them a chance to build a solid friendship and feelings of trust. I liked how they understood each other's occasional need to be alone to cope with memories without feeling left out or ignored. As the weeks go on and they get to know each other better, their friendship begins to deepen to something more. One of my favorite things is their willingness to communicate openly about their feelings, fears, and interest in seeing where it all goes. Both Dana and Colin hold back a little, wary of confessing their love and scaring the other one away.
When Dana stumbles on bags full of money hidden in her broken-down cabin, both she and Colin sense impending danger. Though Colin has attempted to bury his time as a Ranger, his protectiveness flares up, and his Ranger instincts resurface. After turning the money over to law enforcement, news of its connection to her past stuns Dana. The book takes an intense turn when Dana is abducted by those looking for the bags. I loved Dana's ability to keep her head despite her fear. I felt she held her own quite well when faced with the threat of death. Taking her fate into her own hands took some courage and determination.
At the same time, Colin witnessed the abduction from too far away to do anything about it. His fear for Dana sent him racing after her. I loved that he did so in a controlled manner, drawing on his Ranger experience. I was glued to the pages as he kept on her trail while keeping law enforcement in the loop. There were a couple of twists that changed the dynamics and brought danger closer to Colin and Dana. The final confrontation was terrific. I thought Colin showed amazing restraint, but his reasoning made sense for where he is in his life.
I loved the ending as Colin and Dana open up fully about their feelings. While neither is completely clear of their past hurts, both realize that together there is more light than darkness. I loved Colin's big moment and the evidence of how well he understands and loves Dana, and the profound effect she has had on his life and heart.
I always learn something new when I read a Lindsay McKenna book. I liked the emphasis on organic farming and learning a bit about how it's done. I also liked the parts about using herbs as medicines when possible while not disregarding modern medicine when needed.
The book finished with a teaser for the next Silver Creek story, and I can't wait to read it.
#netgalley
October 9, 2021
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Strength Under Fire is the third title in the Silver Creek series, and I’ll admit that I’m coming into this series a bit late but I didn’t feel the least bit lost. In fact, I’ve gone and downloaded the earlier books that I’ve missed in order to get caught up before the next release in March of 2022. Yeah, it was that good that I wanted to know what I’d missed.
The world as Dana knew it ended with the death of her family by domestic terrorists. Now dealing with PTSD, Dana is setting out to begin her life somewhere far from the memories, and the killers who are still free to inflict more harm on innocent people. She’s found a rundown property that she’s sunk just about her last dollar into but oh, what Wildflower Ranch could be one day – with a lot of work and help along the way. Dana’s been welcomed into the tight-knit community with open arms and has been offered the help of a local ranch’s wrangler, Colin, as overall help and handyman. Neither expected what was about to descend on them or the emotions that would make two loners a loving couple.
Colin also must deal with severe PTSD from his military days. He prefers to work alone or with very few people so while it isn’t exactly completely alone, working with Dana to bring Wildflower Ranch back to its former self isn’t that difficult of a chore. Sure, there’s hard work ahead but there’s also the attraction between Colin and Dana to consider. With an unexpected discovery, Dana will be thrust back into the attention of the domestic terrorists who killed her parents… and now their sights are on her.
I was easily caught up in Strength Under Fire and the struggles of Dana and Colin as they worked the land, brought the property slowly back, and each dealt with their own unique experiences with PTSD. The romance is definitely a slow burn but that doesn’t mean that the emotions aren’t fully engaged and burning hot. These two people have been through so much, watching them lower barriers around each other, learn to trust, and yes, to love each other was an emotionally charged backdrop to the danger they will face. Dana’s past is about to rear its ugly head once again as those who killed her parents are determined to eliminate her as well. Colin’s history as a Ranger will come into play since those old instincts, that knowledge never truly leaves a lawman or military man. There are some intense moments when Dana is in real danger but fast thinking on both of their parts will bring an ending that these domestic terrorists never expected.
I enjoyed myself in this story. There are some things that I feel might be a trigger for some readers. In my opinion, anything dealing with PTSD, or a family being killed could be a trigger, but only each individual will know if that is true for them… simply something I felt needed to be mentioned.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Strength Under Fire is the third title in the Silver Creek series, and I’ll admit that I’m coming into this series a bit late but I didn’t feel the least bit lost. In fact, I’ve gone and downloaded the earlier books that I’ve missed in order to get caught up before the next release in March of 2022. Yeah, it was that good that I wanted to know what I’d missed.
The world as Dana knew it ended with the death of her family by domestic terrorists. Now dealing with PTSD, Dana is setting out to begin her life somewhere far from the memories, and the killers who are still free to inflict more harm on innocent people. She’s found a rundown property that she’s sunk just about her last dollar into but oh, what Wildflower Ranch could be one day – with a lot of work and help along the way. Dana’s been welcomed into the tight-knit community with open arms and has been offered the help of a local ranch’s wrangler, Colin, as overall help and handyman. Neither expected what was about to descend on them or the emotions that would make two loners a loving couple.
Colin also must deal with severe PTSD from his military days. He prefers to work alone or with very few people so while it isn’t exactly completely alone, working with Dana to bring Wildflower Ranch back to its former self isn’t that difficult of a chore. Sure, there’s hard work ahead but there’s also the attraction between Colin and Dana to consider. With an unexpected discovery, Dana will be thrust back into the attention of the domestic terrorists who killed her parents… and now their sights are on her.
I was easily caught up in Strength Under Fire and the struggles of Dana and Colin as they worked the land, brought the property slowly back, and each dealt with their own unique experiences with PTSD. The romance is definitely a slow burn but that doesn’t mean that the emotions aren’t fully engaged and burning hot. These two people have been through so much, watching them lower barriers around each other, learn to trust, and yes, to love each other was an emotionally charged backdrop to the danger they will face. Dana’s past is about to rear its ugly head once again as those who killed her parents are determined to eliminate her as well. Colin’s history as a Ranger will come into play since those old instincts, that knowledge never truly leaves a lawman or military man. There are some intense moments when Dana is in real danger but fast thinking on both of their parts will bring an ending that these domestic terrorists never expected.
I enjoyed myself in this story. There are some things that I feel might be a trigger for some readers. In my opinion, anything dealing with PTSD, or a family being killed could be a trigger, but only each individual will know if that is true for them… simply something I felt needed to be mentioned.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
October 20, 2021
This is the story of two wounded people who both have major issues. Both Dana and Colin suffer from PTSD after having experienced traumatic experiences in their life. Dana, when she was 18-years old, found her violently murdered parents when she returned home after she had completed her farm chores. Colin also endured a violent experience. When he was in the military and working with the Navy SEALs, his team was ambushed. Everyone died, but him. Because of these events, both of them have trouble, normally, navigating in the real world.
Dana has decided to restart her life. Therefore, she sells her family’s farm and, uses the money to buy a huge farm so she can move away from her bad memories. However, the land includes an inhabitable cabin that needs a lot of work before she can actually live in it. Unfortunately, she does not have enough money left to be able improve, and accomplish everything that needs to be done.
Luckily, when Dana applies for a job, she meets Mary, who turns out to be her “fairy godmother.” Mary offers to help Dana pay for her crops. She also lends her the use of tools, machines, and anything else she may need to work the farm. She moves a mobile home to Dana’s land so she and Colin will have someplace to stay until her cabin becomes habitable. Mary even reassigns Colin to work for Dana. He is currently working as a full-time wrangler on her own ranch.
Even though Dana and Colin have not even begun to recover from their traumatic experiences, they work well together because they clearly understand each other’s issues. They are both hard workers and have no problem spending hours fixing up the farm and the cabin. As the couple works together, they begin to trust and respect each other. They become friends and eventually fall in love.
Unfortunately, just as Dana and Colin begin to work happily together and to enjoy each other’s company, they accidentally get mixed up with some drug dealers. These evil men have been using Dana’s abandoned farm for their own nefarious reasons. At this point, this story becomes a page-turner with non-stop action and intrigue.
The author also includes two horses, Gypsy and Pattycake, and a service dog named Bandit, The three of them are also main characters in this book. They all help Dana and Colin work on the farm and escape from the villains in the story. Dana and Collin talk to them as if they are humans. And they clearly communicate with their humans in the same way!
Lindsay McKenna skillfully highlights Dana’s and Colin’s issues and their difficulty to trust and interact with other people. She uses this story to clearly illustrate the important role that respect and understanding play in healing people with PTSD issues.
Dana has decided to restart her life. Therefore, she sells her family’s farm and, uses the money to buy a huge farm so she can move away from her bad memories. However, the land includes an inhabitable cabin that needs a lot of work before she can actually live in it. Unfortunately, she does not have enough money left to be able improve, and accomplish everything that needs to be done.
Luckily, when Dana applies for a job, she meets Mary, who turns out to be her “fairy godmother.” Mary offers to help Dana pay for her crops. She also lends her the use of tools, machines, and anything else she may need to work the farm. She moves a mobile home to Dana’s land so she and Colin will have someplace to stay until her cabin becomes habitable. Mary even reassigns Colin to work for Dana. He is currently working as a full-time wrangler on her own ranch.
Even though Dana and Colin have not even begun to recover from their traumatic experiences, they work well together because they clearly understand each other’s issues. They are both hard workers and have no problem spending hours fixing up the farm and the cabin. As the couple works together, they begin to trust and respect each other. They become friends and eventually fall in love.
Unfortunately, just as Dana and Colin begin to work happily together and to enjoy each other’s company, they accidentally get mixed up with some drug dealers. These evil men have been using Dana’s abandoned farm for their own nefarious reasons. At this point, this story becomes a page-turner with non-stop action and intrigue.
The author also includes two horses, Gypsy and Pattycake, and a service dog named Bandit, The three of them are also main characters in this book. They all help Dana and Colin work on the farm and escape from the villains in the story. Dana and Collin talk to them as if they are humans. And they clearly communicate with their humans in the same way!
Lindsay McKenna skillfully highlights Dana’s and Colin’s issues and their difficulty to trust and interact with other people. She uses this story to clearly illustrate the important role that respect and understanding play in healing people with PTSD issues.
September 28, 2021
Dana Scott came to Silver Creek to start a new life, leaving the memories of her parent's murder behind. Using most of her savings, she bought an old broken ranch with the hopes of bringing it back to life. With the hopes of getting a job and earning the money to get started, she meets with the matriarch of the town, Mary Bishop, Mary offers Dana much more than a job. She offers Dana the chance to farm her land as she planned as her sponsor. Dana leaves the meeting overwhelmed, with the promise of assistance in the form of farm equipment, a place to live while she repairs the old cabin on her new property and a hand to help her get it all up and running.
Former Army ranger Colin Gallagher works for Mary's son Chase on Chase's ranch. He suffers from severe PTSD. As former military himself, Chase understands Colin's struggles, letting him work on projects around the ranch he can handle by himself, knowing it was less stressful for him to work independently. When Chase offers him to chance to work with Dana on her ranch, he jumps at the opportunity. Working the land together brings them peace until a surprising discovery threatens everything they're working toward.
This is an emotional story of two broken souls trying to get through each day. Working the land provides each of them a deep sense of peace, but working it together helps them learn to trust and sets them on a path of healing. At times this story feels a little forced and contrived, but is easily dismissed in the strength of the emotions revealed through the thoughts and dialogue between Dana and Colin. Their struggles to overcome painful memories and their efforts to not to be consumed by them are made clear as their growing relationship and heart to heart talks set them on a path of healing This third installment of the Silver Creek series can be read as a stand alone, and, to me, is the best the series so far.
Former Army ranger Colin Gallagher works for Mary's son Chase on Chase's ranch. He suffers from severe PTSD. As former military himself, Chase understands Colin's struggles, letting him work on projects around the ranch he can handle by himself, knowing it was less stressful for him to work independently. When Chase offers him to chance to work with Dana on her ranch, he jumps at the opportunity. Working the land together brings them peace until a surprising discovery threatens everything they're working toward.
This is an emotional story of two broken souls trying to get through each day. Working the land provides each of them a deep sense of peace, but working it together helps them learn to trust and sets them on a path of healing. At times this story feels a little forced and contrived, but is easily dismissed in the strength of the emotions revealed through the thoughts and dialogue between Dana and Colin. Their struggles to overcome painful memories and their efforts to not to be consumed by them are made clear as their growing relationship and heart to heart talks set them on a path of healing This third installment of the Silver Creek series can be read as a stand alone, and, to me, is the best the series so far.
September 28, 2021
Dana Scott came to Silver Creek to start a new life, leaving the memories of her parent's murder behind. Using most of her savings, she bought an old broken ranch with the hopes of bringing it back to life. With the hopes of getting a job and earning the money to get started, she meets with the matriarch of the town, Mary Bishop, Mary offers Dana much more than a job. She offers Dana the chance to farm her land as she planned as her sponsor. Dana leaves the meeting overwhelmed, with the promise of assistance in the form of farm equipment, a place to live while she repairs the old cabin on her new property and a hand to help her get it all up and running.
Former Army ranger Colin Gallagher works for Mary's son Chase on Chase's ranch. He suffers from severe PTSD. As former military himself, Chase understands Colin's struggles, letting him work on projects around the ranch he can handle by himself, knowing it was less stressful for him to work independently. When Chase offers him to chance to work with Dana on her ranch, he jumps at the opportunity. Working the land together brings them peace until a surprising discovery threatens everything they're working toward.
This is an emotional story of two broken souls trying to get through each day. Working the land provides each of them a deep sense of peace, but working it together helps them learn to trust and sets them on a path of healing. At times this story feels a little forced and contrived, but is easily dismissed in the strength of the emotions revealed through the thoughts and dialogue between Dana and Colin. Their struggles to overcome painful memories and their efforts to not to be consumed by them are made clear as their growing relationship and heart to heart talks set them on a path of healing This third installment of the Silver Creek series can be read as a stand alone, and, to me, is the best the series so far.
Former Army ranger Colin Gallagher works for Mary's son Chase on Chase's ranch. He suffers from severe PTSD. As former military himself, Chase understands Colin's struggles, letting him work on projects around the ranch he can handle by himself, knowing it was less stressful for him to work independently. When Chase offers him to chance to work with Dana on her ranch, he jumps at the opportunity. Working the land together brings them peace until a surprising discovery threatens everything they're working toward.
This is an emotional story of two broken souls trying to get through each day. Working the land provides each of them a deep sense of peace, but working it together helps them learn to trust and sets them on a path of healing. At times this story feels a little forced and contrived, but is easily dismissed in the strength of the emotions revealed through the thoughts and dialogue between Dana and Colin. Their struggles to overcome painful memories and their efforts to not to be consumed by them are made clear as their growing relationship and heart to heart talks set them on a path of healing This third installment of the Silver Creek series can be read as a stand alone, and, to me, is the best the series so far.
September 23, 2021
This book evoked so many emotions and reactions including admiration and compassion for both Colin and Dana. The situation they find themselves in confronting later in the book had me gnashing my teeth and deepened my appreciation for this couple’s inner strength and fortitude. Both have suffered terrible losses and have seen first hand the evil mankind can inflict. Their wounds and scars are not visible. Instead they are marked on their souls as both suffer from PTSD. At any moment, memories and flashbacks take them back to the point of trauma. Fate has brought them together as Dana tries to move forward in life on her newly purchased farm, hopefully leaving the terrible pain behind her. Colin becomes her right hand man in her new venture and with his help, and that of the whole community, she sees her plans for the farm come to life. Their close proximity leads to shared secrets and the lowering of guards around their hearts, but Colin’s severe PTSD makes him believe that anything other than friendship is not possible between him and the beautiful, resilient Dana. It takes a dangerous and deadly incident for both to realize just how much they love each other and that they want a chance at a future together. Will they get their chance to have a happily ever after?
I found the characters of this book to be fascinating, relatable and memorable. I was immediately immersed into their story and couldn’t stop reading until I had finished the last page. I loved reading about the very close knit community that helped and supported each other without expecting anything in return. We need more of that sentiment or attitude in this world. This book is one I will re-read time and again. I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I found the characters of this book to be fascinating, relatable and memorable. I was immediately immersed into their story and couldn’t stop reading until I had finished the last page. I loved reading about the very close knit community that helped and supported each other without expecting anything in return. We need more of that sentiment or attitude in this world. This book is one I will re-read time and again. I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
September 30, 2021
Strength Under Fire by Lindsay McKenna is the latest in her Silver Creek series. It features survivors, currently experiencing PTSD, Dana Scott and Colin Gallagher. Dana has just purchased Wildflower Ranch, an abandoned hundred acres originally settled by German settlers, but now abandoned. Colin is an ex-Army Ranger, currently working for Chase Bishop. Chase and his wife, Cari run the Three Bars Ranch with his mother, Mary Bishop, Who had plenty of money and uses it to help people that want to be contributing members of society. Mary runs a grocery store in Silver Creek that carries all organic products: no GMOs, no chemical fertilizers, etc. In order to accomplish this she offers to totally bankroll Dana; Pay her to work her ranch, supply her with equipment and labor, give her horses, build a barn, supply a mobile home in which she can live. Dana has apparently found Shangri-la. Mary even sends Colin to be a permanent employee. Colin's PTSD is such that it is difficult for him to work as part of a group. Chase has helped in manage it so far, but working with Dana is the ideal solution. Chase will pay the bill.
This is a romantic thriller, and in that sense, it is a good story. The problems I have with the book include the fact that McKenna obviously has an agenda and supports it by flat, repetitive, circular dialogue. The idea is good but she has her characters talk way too much, redundancy is rampant. This has become more and more McKenna's m.o. in her most recent books and it is a shame to see such a talented author succumb. I can't really recommend this book unless, books replete with an agenda are you jam.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Strength Under Fire by Kensington Books, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #kensingtonbooks #strengthunderfire
This is a romantic thriller, and in that sense, it is a good story. The problems I have with the book include the fact that McKenna obviously has an agenda and supports it by flat, repetitive, circular dialogue. The idea is good but she has her characters talk way too much, redundancy is rampant. This has become more and more McKenna's m.o. in her most recent books and it is a shame to see such a talented author succumb. I can't really recommend this book unless, books replete with an agenda are you jam.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Strength Under Fire by Kensington Books, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #kensingtonbooks #strengthunderfire
September 1, 2021
I have been reading books written by Lindsay McKenna for many years but Strength Under Fire (Silver Creek #3) had a different feel to it from others that I remember. In the past men and women characters may have been different but each was capable no matter whether they were in the military or in the private sector. This time there seems to be more of a line drawn in their differences, likes, dislikes and general treatment. This was odd since both character suffer from PTSD having survived treacherous situations.
While Mary is Queen in Silver Creek there is a division that I found difficult to understand. Such as “Wait till you taste Louise’s cooking. She’s made a vegetarian meal for us women, and a meat meal for the guys.” Why were only the women vegetarians, could anyone be or not be? There also seemed be a lot of almost trying to persuade the reader that chemical fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, or GMO seeds were bad but we couldn’t possibly understand that unless it was pushed in this story. Along with this is a huge amount of text given to farming concepts and matters. While interesting to some it did not always move the romantic suspense story along. Still I enjoyed the romance and the suspense of the story when the focus was on Colin and Dana.
3.5 Stars - Not my favorite book by this author.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
While Mary is Queen in Silver Creek there is a division that I found difficult to understand. Such as “Wait till you taste Louise’s cooking. She’s made a vegetarian meal for us women, and a meat meal for the guys.” Why were only the women vegetarians, could anyone be or not be? There also seemed be a lot of almost trying to persuade the reader that chemical fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, or GMO seeds were bad but we couldn’t possibly understand that unless it was pushed in this story. Along with this is a huge amount of text given to farming concepts and matters. While interesting to some it did not always move the romantic suspense story along. Still I enjoyed the romance and the suspense of the story when the focus was on Colin and Dana.
3.5 Stars - Not my favorite book by this author.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 4, 2021
I received an e-copy of this book from Goodreads in exchange for a review.
When two people, broken and seeking to bring calm and quiet into their lives, come together on Wildflower Ranch in Silver Creek, Wyoming, true healing begins. Silver Creek is a place of peace as well as magic, as Dana will soon discover when the town comes together to help make her dreams come true.
Dana Scott lost her parents in the most horrendous of ways…they were murdered. Her purchase of Wildflower ranch is her new beginning, her chance to try and put the horror of the past behind her.
Colin is an ex-Army Ranger, suffering from PTSD. He needs the quiet of the ranch work to deal with the pain of his past. When Colin comes to Dana’s ranch as a wrangler, they are able to work together to find much-needed peace as they slowly bring the ranch back to life. But it’s a discovery in the old cabin that brings danger to their door and soon Dana and Colin find themselves reliving their worst nightmares.
The depths of emotion and the strength of the characters in this book make it so very heart-touching and emotional. The story wrapped itself around me and simply pulled me in. I had not read the earlier two books in the series but intend to. I’ve fallen under the spell of Silver Creek and want to know its inhabitants.
When two people, broken and seeking to bring calm and quiet into their lives, come together on Wildflower Ranch in Silver Creek, Wyoming, true healing begins. Silver Creek is a place of peace as well as magic, as Dana will soon discover when the town comes together to help make her dreams come true.
Dana Scott lost her parents in the most horrendous of ways…they were murdered. Her purchase of Wildflower ranch is her new beginning, her chance to try and put the horror of the past behind her.
Colin is an ex-Army Ranger, suffering from PTSD. He needs the quiet of the ranch work to deal with the pain of his past. When Colin comes to Dana’s ranch as a wrangler, they are able to work together to find much-needed peace as they slowly bring the ranch back to life. But it’s a discovery in the old cabin that brings danger to their door and soon Dana and Colin find themselves reliving their worst nightmares.
The depths of emotion and the strength of the characters in this book make it so very heart-touching and emotional. The story wrapped itself around me and simply pulled me in. I had not read the earlier two books in the series but intend to. I’ve fallen under the spell of Silver Creek and want to know its inhabitants.
September 28, 2021
A beautiful and intriguing “family style” romance with a touch of danger. After the death of her parents, Dana Scott moves to Silver Creek, Wyoming and buys the Wildflower Ranch. The cabin on the property needs a little work, well a lot of work, but the land is perfect for her organic garden. Meeting Mary Bishop makes a world of difference to Dana’s introduction to Silver Creek. Mary owns Mama’s Store and helps Dana get started at the ranch and arranges for someone to help her on the property. Colin Gallagher, former Army Ranger, has been working for Mary’s son Chase, but working for Dana, on her smaller ranch, will help him deal with his PTSD. Dana soon fits in to the life at Silver Creek and she and Colin slowly admit to the attraction between them. Criminals had been using Wildflower Ranch while it was abandoned and they are waiting for the right time to take back what is theirs. Will Colin be able to protect Dana and end the threat to her and the ranch? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
September 29, 2021
Dana Scott comes to Silver Creek to try and get over a family tragedy. She has purchased run-down Wildflower Ranch.
Colin Gallagher is in Silver Creek to make some money as a ranch hand, and get over issues that took place during his military career.
Two lost souls who need each other, but don't want to fall too quickly.
Silver Creek, a community with some magical weather and people, work with Dana and Colin to get the ranch back on its feet. When danger comes calling, will Dana and Colin be able to keep themselves safe or will they fall victim to its wrath!
A very engrossing novel. Lots of town involvement with Dana and Colin, but that's the way this town rolls. I loved learning about the diverse subjects that Ms. McKenna put in this novel. I made sure I had my laptop next to my tablet to fact check some of the things that were written! I love when a book gives me some knowledge along with my reading time.
Four stars because there seemed to be some redundancies, but the knowledge gained almost made that a moot point...almost!.
Colin Gallagher is in Silver Creek to make some money as a ranch hand, and get over issues that took place during his military career.
Two lost souls who need each other, but don't want to fall too quickly.
Silver Creek, a community with some magical weather and people, work with Dana and Colin to get the ranch back on its feet. When danger comes calling, will Dana and Colin be able to keep themselves safe or will they fall victim to its wrath!
A very engrossing novel. Lots of town involvement with Dana and Colin, but that's the way this town rolls. I loved learning about the diverse subjects that Ms. McKenna put in this novel. I made sure I had my laptop next to my tablet to fact check some of the things that were written! I love when a book gives me some knowledge along with my reading time.
Four stars because there seemed to be some redundancies, but the knowledge gained almost made that a moot point...almost!.
September 20, 2022
I want to thank Lindsay McKenna, author and Goodreads First Reads Giveaway for the eBook Kindle copy of Strength Under Fire ~ Silver Creek ~ Book 3 that I won in the Giveaway.
Strength Under Fire is just as good as the first two books in the series. Dana comes to Silver Springs and buys a small ranch with all the money she has and a big dream to turn this ranch into a new life and a new dream after the brutal loss of both of her parents. She seeks a job at the local natural foods grocery store and is given a great opportunity to grow natural vegetables for the story with lots of help from the owner and the entire valley.
Colin, ex-Army Ranger with PTSD is offered the job as Dana's wrangler and he takes it because he will be working with one person instead of part of a group, which triggers his PTSD episodes and nightmares. Two wonderful and mature flawed characters equal a sweet love story with a dangerous threat from the same group that killed Dana's parents giving the plot a suspenseful and exciting twist.
Loved this series so far...
Strength Under Fire is just as good as the first two books in the series. Dana comes to Silver Springs and buys a small ranch with all the money she has and a big dream to turn this ranch into a new life and a new dream after the brutal loss of both of her parents. She seeks a job at the local natural foods grocery store and is given a great opportunity to grow natural vegetables for the story with lots of help from the owner and the entire valley.
Colin, ex-Army Ranger with PTSD is offered the job as Dana's wrangler and he takes it because he will be working with one person instead of part of a group, which triggers his PTSD episodes and nightmares. Two wonderful and mature flawed characters equal a sweet love story with a dangerous threat from the same group that killed Dana's parents giving the plot a suspenseful and exciting twist.
Loved this series so far...
July 18, 2021
Lindsay McKenna brings us back to Silver Creek, Wyoming. Dana comes to Wyoming and is determined to make Wildflower Ranch her home. Her neighbors and the town are welcoming and are equally determined to help Dana with this. Wrangler Colin is sent to help her out. As they work together on rebuilding the ranch, a friendship is formed. A threat that killed her parents have found her and now that her life is on the line, Colin and the rest of the town will protect one of their own. Will this bring Dana and Colin closer together or will this only scare them to stay apart?
Lindsay McKenna brings us a story of two people who are thrown into a situation where they work together and they not only respect each other, but they also feel a kinship to each other. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for this privilege.
Lindsay McKenna brings us a story of two people who are thrown into a situation where they work together and they not only respect each other, but they also feel a kinship to each other. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for this privilege.
November 14, 2021
This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.
What an action packed romance! There is a bit of everything in this book, the drama of drug dealers, budding romance, former military hero battling PTSD, and the very tragic history of Dana. I don't want to give too much away as it takes a while to know what causes Dana to be so sad and broken while we know right away that Colin suffers from his military service.
It is almost too good to be true to have such giving neighbors and willing friends to help out when someone needs it. I like that we see some of the previous couples in the book and as always, Mary!
A sweet romance that builds slowly and strong enough to overcome their past traumas, and to see that love healing them. What a great analog of the broken pots practice of repair in Japan.
As always, looking forward to the next book and the introduction of a new character to Silver Creek.
What an action packed romance! There is a bit of everything in this book, the drama of drug dealers, budding romance, former military hero battling PTSD, and the very tragic history of Dana. I don't want to give too much away as it takes a while to know what causes Dana to be so sad and broken while we know right away that Colin suffers from his military service.
It is almost too good to be true to have such giving neighbors and willing friends to help out when someone needs it. I like that we see some of the previous couples in the book and as always, Mary!
A sweet romance that builds slowly and strong enough to overcome their past traumas, and to see that love healing them. What a great analog of the broken pots practice of repair in Japan.
As always, looking forward to the next book and the introduction of a new character to Silver Creek.
July 17, 2021
This book was really hard to get through, and I actually only got about one third in before I quit. I can usually get through a poorly crafted book eventually, but this one was just not going to happen.
The premise worked for me. Moody cowboy with a black ops past and PTSD. Valiant but emotionally scarred woman with a tragic past. Bad guys eventually coming. But the ridiculousness of the Shangri-la Wyoming town where everyone helps everyone else both with muscle and money (that gets thrown around like confetti) is just too hard to accept. I like my characters to work hard for what they achieve, but Dana barely lifts a finger and suddenly has a free wrangler, a free motor home, a free Quonset hut, the promise of free bees, etc. I'm sure she has qualities to admire, but the author didn't give her a chance to demonstrate them.
If you don't mind that type of saccharine sweetness, you might enjoy this novel, but for me, it's a hard pass
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!
The premise worked for me. Moody cowboy with a black ops past and PTSD. Valiant but emotionally scarred woman with a tragic past. Bad guys eventually coming. But the ridiculousness of the Shangri-la Wyoming town where everyone helps everyone else both with muscle and money (that gets thrown around like confetti) is just too hard to accept. I like my characters to work hard for what they achieve, but Dana barely lifts a finger and suddenly has a free wrangler, a free motor home, a free Quonset hut, the promise of free bees, etc. I'm sure she has qualities to admire, but the author didn't give her a chance to demonstrate them.
If you don't mind that type of saccharine sweetness, you might enjoy this novel, but for me, it's a hard pass
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!
June 20, 2021
This story centers around Dana Scott and Colin Gallagher.
After the death of her parents, Dana buys a ranch very much in need of work. Work she hopes with heal her. But she can’t accomplish her dream by herself and realizes she needs help.
That help comes in the form of Colin Gallagher. A former Army Ranger whose years in the military have left him a shell of his old self.
As these two work together, each starts healing mentally, spiritually and physically. But their world is shattered when domestic terrorist show up.
Though I feel the story didn’t develop to it’s potential, it was still ok enough for an afternoon of leisure.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Zebra Books. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
After the death of her parents, Dana buys a ranch very much in need of work. Work she hopes with heal her. But she can’t accomplish her dream by herself and realizes she needs help.
That help comes in the form of Colin Gallagher. A former Army Ranger whose years in the military have left him a shell of his old self.
As these two work together, each starts healing mentally, spiritually and physically. But their world is shattered when domestic terrorist show up.
Though I feel the story didn’t develop to it’s potential, it was still ok enough for an afternoon of leisure.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Zebra Books. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
September 22, 2021
Pretty disappointed in this book. Aside from the first quarter of the book waxing poetically about organic farming and misusing the term vegan the romance fell flat for me. This was definitely a tell me book. The characters flat out tell each other what they are feeling towards each other, that is fine to a point. They tell me everything thing, but what I really like is when I see it, when the author shows me through action how they feel. I didn't get any of that and therefore I didn't get any chemistry from them. What little action and suspense was in the book was good but there wasn't enough of it.
Thank you Netgalley for this copy, as always this review is honestly and voluntarily given.
Thank you Netgalley for this copy, as always this review is honestly and voluntarily given.
May 22, 2022
STRENGTH UNDER FIRE by Lindsay McKenna, book 3 of the Silver Creek series
Welcome back to Silver Creek, Wyoming, where, Colin Gallagher, a Black Ops veteran finds the strength to fight again when a dangerous terrorist group comes after his beautiful boss... Bereft after the brutal loss of her parents, Dana Scott sinks nearly every dime of her inheritance into buying Wildflower ranch, believing that once she restores the rustic cabin, and farms the untamed acreage, her soul will be whole once more.
STRENGTH UNDER FIRE is a slow-building romance between two broken people who find courage to love while facing the elements of suspense and danger. Lindsay McKenna writes pulse-pounding suspense, adding captivating sensuality between her heroes and heroines.
Welcome back to Silver Creek, Wyoming, where, Colin Gallagher, a Black Ops veteran finds the strength to fight again when a dangerous terrorist group comes after his beautiful boss... Bereft after the brutal loss of her parents, Dana Scott sinks nearly every dime of her inheritance into buying Wildflower ranch, believing that once she restores the rustic cabin, and farms the untamed acreage, her soul will be whole once more.
STRENGTH UNDER FIRE is a slow-building romance between two broken people who find courage to love while facing the elements of suspense and danger. Lindsay McKenna writes pulse-pounding suspense, adding captivating sensuality between her heroes and heroines.
July 21, 2021
Two broken people, who have been injured by life and are looking to start anew. Colin served his country but bears scars daily. Dana grew up on a farm and relocated due to past hurts. Both have been enveloped by the community. I liked the huge support base and the tight knit community in the book. There is also danger and Colin has to resurface his training in order to catch the culprits. I liked the energy of the book and the characters. I liked the promise of the relationship between Colin and Dana. It makes one feel positive for the future after reading it. I loved the setting in Wyoming too. Thanks to Zebra Books and NetGalley for the advance copy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews