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Men of Fort Dale #6
My Surly Soldier
Marco: Life is pretty good...for the most part anyway. A solid career in IT, a good home, and great friends who care about me. It’s a bit lonely. But I’m okay with that. I certainly wasn’t expecting to stumble across a bruised and battered stranger on a dirty street or to discover there was so much more to him than meets the eye. And I definitely didn’t expect to find that Carter, the grumpy, sharp-tongued stranger was the last piece of the puzzle that is my life…But that’s life, right?
Carter: Nothing in my life has been easy. The only way out of my crappy childhood was to enlist. That wasn’t any easier. The military hasn’t exactly been kind to me, even if it did give me a purpose. None of that mattered for shit when they put me on ice, threw me to the wolves and left me out to dry…at Fort Dale. But that’s life, right? At least that’s what I told myself until I met Marco, who honestly doesn’t play by the rules. I thought I knew how the world worked, and everything I thought I knew? Well, Marcus turned it on its head.
Can these two amazing men, who are complete opposites, find happiness? Will Marco be able to blast his way through the grumpy shield Carter uses to defend his heart? Or will Carter’s bad luck strike again?
Carter: Nothing in my life has been easy. The only way out of my crappy childhood was to enlist. That wasn’t any easier. The military hasn’t exactly been kind to me, even if it did give me a purpose. None of that mattered for shit when they put me on ice, threw me to the wolves and left me out to dry…at Fort Dale. But that’s life, right? At least that’s what I told myself until I met Marco, who honestly doesn’t play by the rules. I thought I knew how the world worked, and everything I thought I knew? Well, Marcus turned it on its head.
Can these two amazing men, who are complete opposites, find happiness? Will Marco be able to blast his way through the grumpy shield Carter uses to defend his heart? Or will Carter’s bad luck strike again?
186 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 26, 2021
195 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
About the author
Romeo Alexander
93 books639 followersRomeo Alexander lives in Michigan, USA, with his dog and two cats. As a certified night owl, coffee and a wicked sense of humor keep him going most days, as does playing with flavors in the kitchen.
As a proud gay man, Romeo doesn't just write characters—he breathes life into them, infusing them with real-world trials, tribulations, and triumphant love stories. He doesn't just believe in love; he champions it, weaving narratives that prove love's healing power time and again.
Ready for some heart-melting, tear-jerking, and smile-inducing stories that stay with you long after you've turned the last page? Dive into Romeo Alexander's world where love always finds a way. Sign up for his newsletter to be the first to know about his latest literary adventures and grab some freebies along the way! https://romeoalexander.com/newsletter
As a proud gay man, Romeo doesn't just write characters—he breathes life into them, infusing them with real-world trials, tribulations, and triumphant love stories. He doesn't just believe in love; he champions it, weaving narratives that prove love's healing power time and again.
Ready for some heart-melting, tear-jerking, and smile-inducing stories that stay with you long after you've turned the last page? Dive into Romeo Alexander's world where love always finds a way. Sign up for his newsletter to be the first to know about his latest literary adventures and grab some freebies along the way! https://romeoalexander.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
June 2, 2021
That was brilliant and definitely a favourite
Marco, Dean's ex and now good friend, finds himself his own grumpy soldier in this fantastic Fort Dale entry.
I loved every bit of this narrative, from the unusual way the two men met, to the scorching hot sex, to the emotional vulnerability that Carter gave Marco.
I hope it's not the end, but I can't think of any leftover characters who haven't got their happy ending yet.
Marco, Dean's ex and now good friend, finds himself his own grumpy soldier in this fantastic Fort Dale entry.
I loved every bit of this narrative, from the unusual way the two men met, to the scorching hot sex, to the emotional vulnerability that Carter gave Marco.
I hope it's not the end, but I can't think of any leftover characters who haven't got their happy ending yet.
April 2, 2021
Love, love love this whole Fort Dale series !
We see Clark save a gal from a gang bang and pound his fists into three guys, but he took some hits, too. That's when he meets Marco, who shows up at the end of the scene.
Marco, from a small town, to college and now here,
is a successful business man, dark eyes, bronze skin, takes Carter home to patch him up.
Carter, 26, close cropped dark hair,
tattoos and muscles, is Special Forces at Fort Dale. He's got a bad attitude due to the circumstances with his last mission.
The guys get along, even though they know nothing about each other. Marco sees there is more to Carter than what he shows the world. Marco sees through Carter.
When a gym rat accosts Marco, Carter is there to stop it. The guys then keep hanging out and get super sexy times.
It's fun to watch them, to see how their together time works so well. We get to have Marco explain Carter to us through his eyes. Later, when another event lands Carter in trouble, the truth will be told, and Marco is by his side.
A fantastic story, from Romeo Alexander, with terrific writing, awesome characters and a gripping tale.
It's a grand tale, and the whole series is full of wonderful servicemen.
Highly recommended.
ENJOY !
======
We see Clark save a gal from a gang bang and pound his fists into three guys, but he took some hits, too. That's when he meets Marco, who shows up at the end of the scene.
Marco, from a small town, to college and now here,
is a successful business man, dark eyes, bronze skin, takes Carter home to patch him up.
Carter, 26, close cropped dark hair,
tattoos and muscles, is Special Forces at Fort Dale. He's got a bad attitude due to the circumstances with his last mission.
The guys get along, even though they know nothing about each other. Marco sees there is more to Carter than what he shows the world. Marco sees through Carter.
When a gym rat accosts Marco, Carter is there to stop it. The guys then keep hanging out and get super sexy times.
It's fun to watch them, to see how their together time works so well. We get to have Marco explain Carter to us through his eyes. Later, when another event lands Carter in trouble, the truth will be told, and Marco is by his side.
A fantastic story, from Romeo Alexander, with terrific writing, awesome characters and a gripping tale.
It's a grand tale, and the whole series is full of wonderful servicemen.
Highly recommended.
ENJOY !
======
October 13, 2022
This was an alright read. I felt like both Marco and Carter were a bit flat as characters, and didn't have much propping them up outside of their base characteristics (Marco - nice, Carter - misunderstood grump) and it didn't change throughout the story. At the very end, Carter kind of turns into a human puddle (relatively speaking) around Marco, but that felt very abrupt to me. For both of them, their work and some bits about their pasts were referenced, but it didn't feel important to the story really, which lent itself to that more 2D feeling.
Overall, I felt like something was missing from this story, and it ended up feeling on the shallow side. Still not a bad read.
Overall, I felt like something was missing from this story, and it ended up feeling on the shallow side. Still not a bad read.
July 30, 2023
Nic nie poradzę - mam słabość do tych zrzędliwych, marudzących i gburowatych 🤷♀️
A w romansach wojskowych można ich znaleźć całkiem przyzwoitą ilość 😁
To był właśnie jeden z nich 😁
A w romansach wojskowych można ich znaleźć całkiem przyzwoitą ilość 😁
To był właśnie jeden z nich 😁
March 12, 2024
4.5 Stars
And this is my favorite one!!! I loved it. The characterisation was jarring and emotional. The plot was both intense and soothing.
Marco is back from the first book when he dated Dean. This time, he finds a man who's basically Sloan's twin. Carter is tall, big, and grumpy with added humor and one line zingers. I lol'd a lot. And he has an angry and protective problem. The spice was hott and I think it was also the best out of all of the books. And just like the rest of the books, I wished it was longer.
Rape trigger warning
And this is my favorite one!!! I loved it. The characterisation was jarring and emotional. The plot was both intense and soothing.
Marco is back from the first book when he dated Dean. This time, he finds a man who's basically Sloan's twin. Carter is tall, big, and grumpy with added humor and one line zingers. I lol'd a lot. And he has an angry and protective problem. The spice was hott and I think it was also the best out of all of the books. And just like the rest of the books, I wished it was longer.
Rape trigger warning
February 28, 2021
What is hiding underneath this angry man. An outstanding read 10/10
Marco is out on a night out he needs a little bit of fun tonight but when he’s leaving he hears screaming. He goes into the alleyway to see what is happening and there is a man there who looks like he’s taken quite a beating and a group of women shouting at him. As he makes his way over what he can gather is this man had help save a drunk woman from being raped but the women thought he was the attacker. What they didn’t know was that this man had fought three men to keep the woman safe.
Marco quickly helps him up and offers to take him back to his place and clean him up as he refuses to go to the hospital. The young man is called Carter and he is in the military station at Fort Dale.
Carter can’t believe his luck it’s like trouble follows him where every he goes and he always comes out looking like a villain. But this guy is ridiculous, Marco wants to take him back to his place and he doesn’t even know him at all. But there is something about Marco that makes him want to go with him. As Marco cleans him up they start talking, Carter was surprised at how easy is to talk to him. They ordered food from Marco's favourite Thai restaurant and it isn’t long before Carter is fast asleep on the sofa. Marco leaves him a note and goes to bed.
Marco was not surprised to find that Carter was gone when he wakes up these military man always get up early. Marco gets on with his day, as the week goes on and he has a surprise when Carter Turns up just-in-time to save him from a guy who wont leave Marco alone.
Carter has bought food they make their way back up to Marco’s apartment. They can’t keep their hands off each other.
That’s all I’m gonna say because there is so much to the story. The story is mainly about how Marco brings out the best in Carter. Marco is just perfect for him, the banter that they have had me smiling throughout this book. The passion they share was off the charts but you can slowly see that turning into so much more.
Then something happens putting Carters future in jeopardy. Will Marco defend him or just see it as something of a good time that is over now.??? I say this about every book in the series but this is by far my favourite book LOL. Its a fantastic read It was great to see Dean and Sloane Again too. I could read about these two the rest of their lives and I’m going to miss them and the guys in this series but i know that Romeo Alexander will have something specially in store for us.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marco is out on a night out he needs a little bit of fun tonight but when he’s leaving he hears screaming. He goes into the alleyway to see what is happening and there is a man there who looks like he’s taken quite a beating and a group of women shouting at him. As he makes his way over what he can gather is this man had help save a drunk woman from being raped but the women thought he was the attacker. What they didn’t know was that this man had fought three men to keep the woman safe.
Marco quickly helps him up and offers to take him back to his place and clean him up as he refuses to go to the hospital. The young man is called Carter and he is in the military station at Fort Dale.
Carter can’t believe his luck it’s like trouble follows him where every he goes and he always comes out looking like a villain. But this guy is ridiculous, Marco wants to take him back to his place and he doesn’t even know him at all. But there is something about Marco that makes him want to go with him. As Marco cleans him up they start talking, Carter was surprised at how easy is to talk to him. They ordered food from Marco's favourite Thai restaurant and it isn’t long before Carter is fast asleep on the sofa. Marco leaves him a note and goes to bed.
Marco was not surprised to find that Carter was gone when he wakes up these military man always get up early. Marco gets on with his day, as the week goes on and he has a surprise when Carter Turns up just-in-time to save him from a guy who wont leave Marco alone.
Carter has bought food they make their way back up to Marco’s apartment. They can’t keep their hands off each other.
That’s all I’m gonna say because there is so much to the story. The story is mainly about how Marco brings out the best in Carter. Marco is just perfect for him, the banter that they have had me smiling throughout this book. The passion they share was off the charts but you can slowly see that turning into so much more.
Then something happens putting Carters future in jeopardy. Will Marco defend him or just see it as something of a good time that is over now.??? I say this about every book in the series but this is by far my favourite book LOL. Its a fantastic read It was great to see Dean and Sloane Again too. I could read about these two the rest of their lives and I’m going to miss them and the guys in this series but i know that Romeo Alexander will have something specially in store for us.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 15, 2021
Brilliant as always
Romeo Alexander is one of my favorite MM romance authors. This books features Carter, who is apparently a badass soldier who finds himself in trouble wherever he goes and Marco, who is a recurring character, as he is Dean’s ex from the first book of the saga (I’m Straight, Right?). Marco finds Carter in a compromising situation and despite how it could be perceived, he knows that Carter is the good guy and takes him home, so he can patch him and take care of him, for Carter this is a new stimulation and finds himself gravitating towards Marco because he finds him interesting and is a little fascinated by that man. The characters’ development is beautiful, they’re really well written, their backgrounds are solid and the relationship they have, how they fall in love, is completely believable, you laugh with their antics and find yourself blushing in their hot scenes.
I really enjoyed reading this book and totally recommend it, I’m going to miss this series since this is the last book, but I’m looking forward to read Romeo Alexander´s next book.
Romeo Alexander is one of my favorite MM romance authors. This books features Carter, who is apparently a badass soldier who finds himself in trouble wherever he goes and Marco, who is a recurring character, as he is Dean’s ex from the first book of the saga (I’m Straight, Right?). Marco finds Carter in a compromising situation and despite how it could be perceived, he knows that Carter is the good guy and takes him home, so he can patch him and take care of him, for Carter this is a new stimulation and finds himself gravitating towards Marco because he finds him interesting and is a little fascinated by that man. The characters’ development is beautiful, they’re really well written, their backgrounds are solid and the relationship they have, how they fall in love, is completely believable, you laugh with their antics and find yourself blushing in their hot scenes.
I really enjoyed reading this book and totally recommend it, I’m going to miss this series since this is the last book, but I’m looking forward to read Romeo Alexander´s next book.
February 26, 2021
4.5. Stars....I really loved Marco and Carter. From beginning to end. I loved their journey from beginning to end. I also felt their connection and chemistry in the first meet. I was so pulling for both of them, but mainly Carter. Omg, I was so able to feel his hurt. I loved that he and Marco had two different personalities but Marco was able to see all of Carter and knew what he was feeling. I loved that Marco had Carters back in every way and his belief and faith in him was just beautiful. Through some little and big rough patches, these guys pulled through and most importantly for me, Carter got his so much deserved HEA. However, I would have loved a better epilogue. I really wanted to see Carter reunited with his sister, oh, well outside of that a great read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2021
All he needed was the right someone to care...
by and1515
Marco, had been born an raised in a small town so when he left the shell shock of being in a big environment had taking quite a bit of adjustment.
But now he was pretty happy with where he'd ended up however it was the friends he had here that made it all the better.
Carter preferred quiet places to consume his drinks of choice but now he had a sudden sinking feeling and the cowardly bartender confirmed he'd rather cater to his normal customers.
Yet the moment he accidentally stumbled across something that didn't seem on the up and up he did what some people would do.
Marco had been out having a good time after who doesn't like loud music and tons of hot people dancing and when the guy he was with said the magic phrase.
But something caught his attention that being the kind of person he was wouldn't let him go on his merry way.
And once he found the spot with all the noise it didn't take a genius to figure out what had gone down.
Carter was still trying to understand why someone was doing him a solid; this guy didn't know him but that didn't stop him from dragging him to his home and he even went so far as to patch him up and offer him a place to crash.
Last night had definitely been one for the books but nope he wasn't sticking around and once he made it back to base Carter should have seen the writing on the wall but nope he wasn't about to admit anything.
Regrettably he was losing what patience's he didn't have while trying to deal with two doctors with polar opposite manners because his grumpiness was coming out and he was so over needing to explain he simply couldn't walk well last night.
Marco was tired and the last thing he wanted was to deal with some jerk who didn't understand he was just not into him.
Until he realized something had changed and then he noticed Carter was none to gently explaining to Mr.Jerk the rules.
Carter just wanted to return the favor especially after Marco had gone out of his way to be nice.
He might have been running late but at least Carter had been on time to see him dancing and yeah for some reason he really did want to get to know Marco.
However for some reason certain people thought it was there sworn duty to rudely ridicule him in front of his new friend or maybe date was a better word.
Needless to say they didn't stick around for a possible act two but honestly Marco was still trying to wrap his head the way that scene had gone down.
And oh boy did a little quiet go along way in helping them learn even more about each other; while adding more flavor to their budding relationship.
Marco knew that his friends meant well but seriously couldn't they even give a guy a chance before they totally wrote him off.
Carter's day wasn't much different then any other with his commanding officer taking his ill temper totally out on him and of course he totally ruined his weekend.
Marco had been totally surprised when Carter showed up at his door looking like a man on a mission.
However he's an action kind of guy so when he sees something totally wrong he never hesitated for one second.
He totally understood the fact his friends didn't get to see the different side to the man he knew as Carter.
Marco wasn't about to let any opportunity pass him by if it mean helping someone whom he knew didn't deserve to be where he was at the moment.
But now all he could do was wait and see.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
by and1515
Marco, had been born an raised in a small town so when he left the shell shock of being in a big environment had taking quite a bit of adjustment.
But now he was pretty happy with where he'd ended up however it was the friends he had here that made it all the better.
Carter preferred quiet places to consume his drinks of choice but now he had a sudden sinking feeling and the cowardly bartender confirmed he'd rather cater to his normal customers.
Yet the moment he accidentally stumbled across something that didn't seem on the up and up he did what some people would do.
Marco had been out having a good time after who doesn't like loud music and tons of hot people dancing and when the guy he was with said the magic phrase.
But something caught his attention that being the kind of person he was wouldn't let him go on his merry way.
And once he found the spot with all the noise it didn't take a genius to figure out what had gone down.
Carter was still trying to understand why someone was doing him a solid; this guy didn't know him but that didn't stop him from dragging him to his home and he even went so far as to patch him up and offer him a place to crash.
Last night had definitely been one for the books but nope he wasn't sticking around and once he made it back to base Carter should have seen the writing on the wall but nope he wasn't about to admit anything.
Regrettably he was losing what patience's he didn't have while trying to deal with two doctors with polar opposite manners because his grumpiness was coming out and he was so over needing to explain he simply couldn't walk well last night.
Marco was tired and the last thing he wanted was to deal with some jerk who didn't understand he was just not into him.
Until he realized something had changed and then he noticed Carter was none to gently explaining to Mr.Jerk the rules.
Carter just wanted to return the favor especially after Marco had gone out of his way to be nice.
He might have been running late but at least Carter had been on time to see him dancing and yeah for some reason he really did want to get to know Marco.
However for some reason certain people thought it was there sworn duty to rudely ridicule him in front of his new friend or maybe date was a better word.
Needless to say they didn't stick around for a possible act two but honestly Marco was still trying to wrap his head the way that scene had gone down.
And oh boy did a little quiet go along way in helping them learn even more about each other; while adding more flavor to their budding relationship.
Marco knew that his friends meant well but seriously couldn't they even give a guy a chance before they totally wrote him off.
Carter's day wasn't much different then any other with his commanding officer taking his ill temper totally out on him and of course he totally ruined his weekend.
Marco had been totally surprised when Carter showed up at his door looking like a man on a mission.
However he's an action kind of guy so when he sees something totally wrong he never hesitated for one second.
He totally understood the fact his friends didn't get to see the different side to the man he knew as Carter.
Marco wasn't about to let any opportunity pass him by if it mean helping someone whom he knew didn't deserve to be where he was at the moment.
But now all he could do was wait and see.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2024
I've been meaning to catch up on (binge-read) the rest of Romeo Alexander's works for a while now. I just realized that most of the Men of Fort Dale novels are relatively short, so here's to binge-ing. "My Surly Soldier" is the sixth and final book in the series
["Marco: Life is pretty good...for the most part anyway. A solid career in IT, a good home, and great friends who care about me. It’s a bit lonely. But I’m okay with that. I certainly wasn’t expecting to stumble across a bruised and battered stranger on a dirty street or to discover there was so much more to him than meets the eye. And I definitely didn’t expect to find that Carter, the grumpy, sharp-tongued stranger was the last piece of the puzzle that is my life…But that’s life, right?
Carter: Nothing in my life has been easy. The only way out of my crappy childhood was to enlist. That wasn’t any easier. The military hasn’t exactly been kind to me, even if it did give me a purpose. None of that mattered for shit when they put me on ice, threw me to the wolves and left me out to dry…at Fort Dale. But that’s life, right? At least that’s what I told myself until I met Marco, who honestly doesn’t play by the rules. I thought I knew how the world worked, and everything I thought I knew? Well, Marcus turned it on its head.
Can these two amazing men, who are complete opposites, find happiness? Will Marco be able to blast his way through the grumpy shield Carter uses to defend his heart? Or will Carter’s bad luck strike again?"]
Marco!! I'm so glad you got to have a story of your own after Dean was derailed by True Love (tm)! And I want to say that Carter was mentioned briefly in a previous novel, in passing.
Carter reminds me of someone, but I can't remember who. Carter was all angry, rough edges. He was judged for his past, or at least what his superiors wrote was his past. He was judged for his actions, without wanting to see why he did them.
Only Marco saw through his guise, or stayed long enough to see (because when Marco went on a tirade (more than one, actually) about Carter and his character, people slowly started to listen).
These two might stick with me for a while. I've got a pick of a book-hangover from them, tbh.
Trigger Warnings: war time action, alcoholism (sorta), violence, attempted rape, and more
#justalittlebi #imstraightright #trustmeihateyou #herewegoagain #atmygeneralscommand #mykindofchristmas #mysurlysoldier #jinglemybells #romeoalexander #menoffortdale #menoffortdaleseries #heroesofportdale #heroesofportdaleseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Marco: Life is pretty good...for the most part anyway. A solid career in IT, a good home, and great friends who care about me. It’s a bit lonely. But I’m okay with that. I certainly wasn’t expecting to stumble across a bruised and battered stranger on a dirty street or to discover there was so much more to him than meets the eye. And I definitely didn’t expect to find that Carter, the grumpy, sharp-tongued stranger was the last piece of the puzzle that is my life…But that’s life, right?
Carter: Nothing in my life has been easy. The only way out of my crappy childhood was to enlist. That wasn’t any easier. The military hasn’t exactly been kind to me, even if it did give me a purpose. None of that mattered for shit when they put me on ice, threw me to the wolves and left me out to dry…at Fort Dale. But that’s life, right? At least that’s what I told myself until I met Marco, who honestly doesn’t play by the rules. I thought I knew how the world worked, and everything I thought I knew? Well, Marcus turned it on its head.
Can these two amazing men, who are complete opposites, find happiness? Will Marco be able to blast his way through the grumpy shield Carter uses to defend his heart? Or will Carter’s bad luck strike again?"]
Marco!! I'm so glad you got to have a story of your own after Dean was derailed by True Love (tm)! And I want to say that Carter was mentioned briefly in a previous novel, in passing.
Carter reminds me of someone, but I can't remember who. Carter was all angry, rough edges. He was judged for his past, or at least what his superiors wrote was his past. He was judged for his actions, without wanting to see why he did them.
Only Marco saw through his guise, or stayed long enough to see (because when Marco went on a tirade (more than one, actually) about Carter and his character, people slowly started to listen).
These two might stick with me for a while. I've got a pick of a book-hangover from them, tbh.
Trigger Warnings: war time action, alcoholism (sorta), violence, attempted rape, and more
#justalittlebi #imstraightright #trustmeihateyou #herewegoagain #atmygeneralscommand #mykindofchristmas #mysurlysoldier #jinglemybells #romeoalexander #menoffortdale #menoffortdaleseries #heroesofportdale #heroesofportdaleseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
February 28, 2021
This was a great finale to the Men of Fort Dale series, though I secretly hope there will eventually be more.
I was happy to see Marco again after meeting him in I'm Straight, Right when he was dating Dean. Marco is such a great character, the way he manages to see the best in people even when others can't. When he bumps into Carter, beaten up and being accused by two women of assaulting their friend, he puts himself out there to help Carter. Carter is used to being seen as the bad guy, and he can't understand why Marco is helping him, or why he seems to think he is even worth helping. The way he was treated by his superiors in the military, especially his direct supervisor was pretty rough, another case of bullying and jumping to conclusions about a person and their situation.
I really enjoyed seeing these to connect, seeing Carter begin to believe in himself and start to see that he is worthy of Marco's friendship and more.
It was also good to catch up with Dean and Sloane again and see nothing much has changed with Sloane being grumpy, but they are both there for Marco and in turn for Carter when they are needed.
A great finish to this series. Can be read as a standalone.
I was happy to see Marco again after meeting him in I'm Straight, Right when he was dating Dean. Marco is such a great character, the way he manages to see the best in people even when others can't. When he bumps into Carter, beaten up and being accused by two women of assaulting their friend, he puts himself out there to help Carter. Carter is used to being seen as the bad guy, and he can't understand why Marco is helping him, or why he seems to think he is even worth helping. The way he was treated by his superiors in the military, especially his direct supervisor was pretty rough, another case of bullying and jumping to conclusions about a person and their situation.
I really enjoyed seeing these to connect, seeing Carter begin to believe in himself and start to see that he is worthy of Marco's friendship and more.
It was also good to catch up with Dean and Sloane again and see nothing much has changed with Sloane being grumpy, but they are both there for Marco and in turn for Carter when they are needed.
A great finish to this series. Can be read as a standalone.
February 25, 2021
Unraveling Carter's layers is like peeling back an onion.
This is what Marco does in this last book of Men of Fort Dale. Carter is an enigma to the Army's bureaucratic butts. So instead of trying to understand him they shuffle him off their hands until he winds up in Fort Dale. This is where Marco finds him slumped in a dark alley where he's been walloped on after saving an unknown woman from three deadbeat drunks. You see Carter has a heart for any underdog and fights the good fight for them. The attraction between these two men is a loving show of wisecracks, emotional connections, and the strategies used by Marco to defend Carter when his chips are down. Marco recognizes this beautiful flaw in Carter's character and falls hard for the guy. This is a chance for the reader to catch up with Dean & Sloane from "I'm Straight, Right?" and General Winter from "At My General's Command" who all play pivotal roles in this book. I got this book via Booksprout & I'm leaving a voluntary honest review.
This is what Marco does in this last book of Men of Fort Dale. Carter is an enigma to the Army's bureaucratic butts. So instead of trying to understand him they shuffle him off their hands until he winds up in Fort Dale. This is where Marco finds him slumped in a dark alley where he's been walloped on after saving an unknown woman from three deadbeat drunks. You see Carter has a heart for any underdog and fights the good fight for them. The attraction between these two men is a loving show of wisecracks, emotional connections, and the strategies used by Marco to defend Carter when his chips are down. Marco recognizes this beautiful flaw in Carter's character and falls hard for the guy. This is a chance for the reader to catch up with Dean & Sloane from "I'm Straight, Right?" and General Winter from "At My General's Command" who all play pivotal roles in this book. I got this book via Booksprout & I'm leaving a voluntary honest review.
February 27, 2021
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Marco and Carter meet for the first time after Carter saves a woman from being raped but her friends think differently. Marco diffuses the situation and takes Carter home to patch him up. It starts an interesting relationship where Carter sees Marco as a bright patch in his life while Marco sees Carter as a better man than Carter believes. Carter's miserable military career becomes worse when he saves another woman from his Sergeant and is tossed in jail. Marco comes to the rescue revealing exactly how good a man Carter is and convincing Jessica to come forward. General Winter gives Carter his preliminary hearing and clears him of the charges against him. The General also let him know the reason he was at Fort Dale was because the General on lookout for good men wanted him there. Carter is given leave and goes to thank Marco. while it might have been a surly beginning on Carter's part, Marco and Carter have found love in each other and their lives are better for it.
February 27, 2021
Marco hears a noise and follows it down an alley where he finds a bruised and battered Carter.
Marco was walking past an alleyway when he hears a noise and at the other end of the alley he sees some battered and bleeding men driving off and another on the floor trying to fend off three drunken women. When one of the women starts to be sick Marco persuades them they need to get her to hospital and they leave. Carter explains to him that he had tried to stop the three men who drove off from putting the woman who was sick in their car but then her drunken friends had come out and were unable to tell the good from the bad. Marco helps him up and takes him to his home as Carter refuses to go to hospital and needs patching up. Afterwards Marco calls for some take out then Carter sleeps on the couch but in the morning he has gone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marco was walking past an alleyway when he hears a noise and at the other end of the alley he sees some battered and bleeding men driving off and another on the floor trying to fend off three drunken women. When one of the women starts to be sick Marco persuades them they need to get her to hospital and they leave. Carter explains to him that he had tried to stop the three men who drove off from putting the woman who was sick in their car but then her drunken friends had come out and were unable to tell the good from the bad. Marco helps him up and takes him to his home as Carter refuses to go to hospital and needs patching up. Afterwards Marco calls for some take out then Carter sleeps on the couch but in the morning he has gone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2021
Carter is a big, burly, grumpy man in the Army. Marco is a sweet, approachable man that works in IT. When each were out one night, Carter was found by Marco being beat upon by women that didn't know he was the good guy helping their friend that was almost taken by three men. Marco comes to Carters aid to get these women off of him. Marco takes Carter home and fixes him up, along with feeding him and letting him stay the night. Carter is gone when Marco wakes up the next morning. These two have a very good chemistry and they are what the other one needs to keep them balanced in life. Marcos friends do not care for Carter from first seeing him. This does not make Marco for a happy camper. This is the last in this series and you can for sure read each book as a standalone. With all the things that are going on and people against these two, can they get their HEA?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2021
Marco quickly became one of my favorite characters when I realized how he always saw the best in people that no one else took the time to see. That is a special and beautiful talent. When he finds Carter, not at his best, beaten up and needing a friend, Marco is right there for him. Carter is surprised because he is usually the one blamed and never understood. Because he is never given the benefit of the doubt, Carter carries a chip on his shoulder. He doesn’t want to let anyone in because he hasn’t learned that there really are people who can be trusted.
But for all the bad that Carter has endured, that has shaped him into who he is now, Marco sees him as worthy and good. He is not judgmental, only supportive. And with Marco’s gentle patience and sincere desire to help, Carter finds himself changing little by little until the two become the caring partners they are meant to be.
But for all the bad that Carter has endured, that has shaped him into who he is now, Marco sees him as worthy and good. He is not judgmental, only supportive. And with Marco’s gentle patience and sincere desire to help, Carter finds himself changing little by little until the two become the caring partners they are meant to be.
February 28, 2021
I loved that the author brought both Port Dale and Fort Dale together, in this story. I also lived the fact that we get another big grumpy soldier to fall for. Only, this time, my heart broke for our surly soldier.
Carter has never had anyone believe in him, let alone believe him. They see the cover but not the heart. That just made me do sad. I wanted to hug the big guy. Marco was different though, and no matter how gruff he got, Marco called bs. Somehow the one person, who saw past his exterior and examined the man inside, happened to stumble upon in when he needed him the most.
This was a very well written story, and out of the entire series, this one felt the most heartbreaking. I felt like the author handled Carter’s story with a quiet dignity, and a lot of humor. I have dearly loved this series, as well as the Heroes of Port Dale. It quickly became a favorite.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Carter has never had anyone believe in him, let alone believe him. They see the cover but not the heart. That just made me do sad. I wanted to hug the big guy. Marco was different though, and no matter how gruff he got, Marco called bs. Somehow the one person, who saw past his exterior and examined the man inside, happened to stumble upon in when he needed him the most.
This was a very well written story, and out of the entire series, this one felt the most heartbreaking. I felt like the author handled Carter’s story with a quiet dignity, and a lot of humor. I have dearly loved this series, as well as the Heroes of Port Dale. It quickly became a favorite.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 2, 2021
Last but not least. Carter was intense. On the surface, he seemed to have anger issues, quick to step up. He was on Post after being shuttled around different commands. He was separated from his team after a mission gone FUBAR! His disagreement with the way the brass handled the mission and the follow-on is just one of his grievances. He used his gruff exterior as an effective shield. Marco, met Carter under not the best circumstances, but he was interested. They accidentally fell into, accidental circumstances. Both of these men were very personable. I enjoyed watching their growth. I was disappointed the series didn't end with more of a fanfare, but a new family unit is forming. This was a good read. Carter was a mystery inside an enigma and I would have enjoyed reading more about him. He was an empathetic character. This author creates the best characters and the best support structures. Nicely done! I received an ARC from Booksprout an am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 27, 2026
Marco goes to help when he hears a scream. He sees a man on the ground, beaten with a woman standing over him threatening him with the police. He sees the lady and her friend go back into the club while he helps Carter, the beaten man, to his feet. Marco takes Carter to his home for some first aid. Slowly, Carter starts to trust him and comes around more often so the two men spend part of each weekend together. When Carter returns to base one Monday, he goes to report to his CO who he finds assaulting a female private. Will Carter help her? Will he walk away? What happens when he makes his choice?
This is the last book I am reading in this series. I am going to miss these characters and Fort Dale. But I do like how Carter does not explain himself even if it means he gets in trouble. I also liked how Dean shows up in this book and puts two and two together. It makes people (Sloane) change their minds. I love how Marco can chew people out when they dismiss Carter because of his reputation. Marco is the only non-military main character of this series. He is freer to pick his battles and say what needs said.
I will have to try the Port Dale series.
This is the last book I am reading in this series. I am going to miss these characters and Fort Dale. But I do like how Carter does not explain himself even if it means he gets in trouble. I also liked how Dean shows up in this book and puts two and two together. It makes people (Sloane) change their minds. I love how Marco can chew people out when they dismiss Carter because of his reputation. Marco is the only non-military main character of this series. He is freer to pick his battles and say what needs said.
I will have to try the Port Dale series.
February 27, 2021
This book is amazing!!! The story of Marco and Carter is one of second chances, grumpy men and standing up for what's right and I loved it! When Marco and Carter first meet, Carter is a bit beaten up after helping a woman in need. Marco offers to help him and it will lead to the two men spending more and more time together. Things will heat up between the two and Marco begins to see the good man beneath the gruff exterior. Carter will save Marco and another person before all is said and done and the last person he helps will land him in trouble on the base. Marco will step up to help save the man he knows in his heart is a good man and others will finally see Carter as Marco does when the person on base steps forward with a story of their own to tell.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2021
Marco finally has his own story with My Surly Soldier and what a great one it is. He meets his future love when he rescues him from a bad situation. Carter has lots of issues and among is his inability disavow others’ bad opinion. Marco sees beyond that surly exterior to the man inside. Now he needs to help Carter realize what a good man he truly is. But that is not an easy road and Marco has many obstacles to overcome. With a little help from friends, he just may do it.
I loved this story from beginning to end. It was a such an emotionally charged story that you really wanted Carter to find his happy ending with Marco just as much as you wanted Marco to finally get his man. Hop on for the ride and enjoy the roller coaster as these two navigate the road called love. You will not be sorry you did.
I loved this story from beginning to end. It was a such an emotionally charged story that you really wanted Carter to find his happy ending with Marco just as much as you wanted Marco to finally get his man. Hop on for the ride and enjoy the roller coaster as these two navigate the road called love. You will not be sorry you did.
March 1, 2021
What happens when a determined and caring man comes across a man who defends others with his fists and his honor? He brings the man home and forever changes his life. Carter had been sent from base to base for his actions during a mission gone wrong, and the fallout, which has him angry and frustrated with the world. When Marco sees the aftermath of Carter's actions to save a women, he takes him him home, and begins a tentative and fragile relationship with him. Marco sees what is behind the face that Carter shows the world, and draws that side of him out. Carter is confused about why someone like Marco would want to be around him and trust him. There's a sweet, romantic progression of the relationship, until a major turn in Carter's life comes into play. This gripping and very intense story will capture your heart and interest.
February 17, 2023
Grumpy Sunshine
Misunderstood MC
Character driven
This book was a bit different, definitely Carter is one of my favorite characters in the series.
Carter has a darker mind, he is quiet, a bit passive aggressive, he went through a lot of sh1t he didn't deserve but he has the kind of personality who doesn't manage to be assertive and get people to see the right in him and respect him. He definitely doesn't know how to communicate well and show his emotions.
Marco confirmed the impression I had of him in book 1 and more. He is a nice person, but also positive, the type of person who sees the good and believes in people. He's the only one who gives Carter the benefit of the doubt and proves he's right to trust him.
Dean and Sloane had a really good involvement in the story and they were both in character.
Misunderstood MC
Character driven
This book was a bit different, definitely Carter is one of my favorite characters in the series.
Carter has a darker mind, he is quiet, a bit passive aggressive, he went through a lot of sh1t he didn't deserve but he has the kind of personality who doesn't manage to be assertive and get people to see the right in him and respect him. He definitely doesn't know how to communicate well and show his emotions.
Marco confirmed the impression I had of him in book 1 and more. He is a nice person, but also positive, the type of person who sees the good and believes in people. He's the only one who gives Carter the benefit of the doubt and proves he's right to trust him.
Dean and Sloane had a really good involvement in the story and they were both in character.
May 11, 2023
Probably my favorite Men of Fort Dale story.
Marcus (of dating Dean fame) and a new bad new bear corporal, Carter, find each other in an alley saving a woman from being raped by three guys. Carter to the rescue only to be accused of being a part of the rotten deed and Marcus saving him from the angry ladies with the mace and their very sick, doped friend who was caught by the three shitheads that were trying to take advantage of her.
Carter is an angry (hence, surly) guy that has always gotten the raw end of any deal and his predicament at Fort Dale, he believed was the same. No one believed what he said in his justifications of trying to save people, until Marcus.
Awful things happen and until Marcus has to find a way to save Carter from a court-martial for doing the right thing, they find each other and love blossoms.
Marcus (of dating Dean fame) and a new bad new bear corporal, Carter, find each other in an alley saving a woman from being raped by three guys. Carter to the rescue only to be accused of being a part of the rotten deed and Marcus saving him from the angry ladies with the mace and their very sick, doped friend who was caught by the three shitheads that were trying to take advantage of her.
Carter is an angry (hence, surly) guy that has always gotten the raw end of any deal and his predicament at Fort Dale, he believed was the same. No one believed what he said in his justifications of trying to save people, until Marcus.
Awful things happen and until Marcus has to find a way to save Carter from a court-martial for doing the right thing, they find each other and love blossoms.
March 17, 2024
Soldiers are different with different expectations
Yet they all want and need the comaradery of each other as part of the team while being able to rely on everyone doing their job in peacetime or ear conditions. Training may make hell feel more normal, but everyone of them needs someone special who cares. Just how deeply can be a blessing, but loosing the one makes you try to protect everyone, even sometimes yourself.
There are many good people in the military, but outsiders most often only see bad ones. Yet the civilians have their share of wild partiers, crooks, gangsters, thieves, hit men, rapiests, drinks, homeless, and lots of guns. They just do not have the training and supervision of the military. You have to search for the good ones and the right one. That is what true love and successful life requires it to be.
Yet they all want and need the comaradery of each other as part of the team while being able to rely on everyone doing their job in peacetime or ear conditions. Training may make hell feel more normal, but everyone of them needs someone special who cares. Just how deeply can be a blessing, but loosing the one makes you try to protect everyone, even sometimes yourself.
There are many good people in the military, but outsiders most often only see bad ones. Yet the civilians have their share of wild partiers, crooks, gangsters, thieves, hit men, rapiests, drinks, homeless, and lots of guns. They just do not have the training and supervision of the military. You have to search for the good ones and the right one. That is what true love and successful life requires it to be.
August 15, 2025
I really liked this book. Really, really liked it. It is probably my favorite in the series and most of that is because of Carter. He's like a grumpy cat that scowls at you even while dropping a mouse at your feet and I love him for that. Marco is also awesome, which did surprise me a little. We didn't get a lot of him in the previous books, but he's got a lot more depth to him than I thought he would.
I also love the fact that these boys have to deal with stuff. Not really relationship stuff, because they are both really drama and angst free, but I liked the plot that this book actually has and it offers a different look at the military than the previous books in this series does.
Anyway, awesome finale and I am so glad I stuck around even after a few...less enjoyable book in this series.
I also love the fact that these boys have to deal with stuff. Not really relationship stuff, because they are both really drama and angst free, but I liked the plot that this book actually has and it offers a different look at the military than the previous books in this series does.
Anyway, awesome finale and I am so glad I stuck around even after a few...less enjoyable book in this series.
February 25, 2021
I loved this book. Carter and Marco were fantastic together! I loved the connection and the chemistry between Carter and Marco. Marco was able to see Carter wanted people to see and accepted him for who he was and never tried to change him. Even though Marco was a little odd to him, Carter was drawn to him and wouldn't change him for the world. I love the banter between Carter and Marco and how they brought out the different sides to each other. I really enjoyed this book and I can't wait to see what Mr. Romeo has in store for us next! I would highly recommend this book and Mr. Romeo as a fantastic author.
I received a free e-book copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free e-book copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2021
Carter moves through the world with a chip on his shoulder put there by more hard knocks than any one person should have to deal with. In spite of his gruff demeanor, sunny, sweet-hearted Marco sees the goodness him at first sight. I love a good opposites attract romance, and these two were perfect for each other. Marco's patience, Carter's caring, and their slow building from acquaintances to hookups to partners was lovely to see. It was also deeply rewarding to watch Marco go to bat for Carter in ways that no one else would, and as a bonus, to get to see Dean and Sloane from earlier in the series. An enjoyable read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2021
I really loved the men of Fort Dale and when I heard that Marco was going to get his story, I thought that was great. Marco was really a nice guy and his chance meeting with the surly soldier Carter had me grinning. Carter really had a prickly attitude and a potty mouth....I loved it! His banter with Marco was entertaining. He had an instant connection to Marco and gradually let the sweet man in and that was a delight to see. Marco's goodness and his "ridiculousness" broke down his defensiveness and was able to let love through. Real nice ending for the guys. Mannnnnnnnnn I hate to see this series end but it was fabulous journey and I'm glad I took it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 30, 2021
Grumpy Dumpty
Oh this one works--from the cover (although it's supposed to be multi-tatted bad boy Carter, he has no tatts) to the opening sequences in which we are introduced to him, and sweet, smaller, adorable and somewhat clumsy Marco.
That Marco is a civilian in a world where many of his best friends are military personnel at Fort Dale (several of whom are crucial to this book and had their own stories in other tomes) at least prepares him for the grumpy, chip-on-his-shoulder and very, very psychologically abused Carter.
Indeed, Carter is a brilliantly drawn character and how he evolves with Marco to guide him along is a surprising twist to a plot that is here and there and sometimes a bit scratchy but still taut enough to keep you going.
This is only the second of this series that I've read and I think I will pursue to others, as well as the companion series "Heroes of Port Dale" because in the end it made me smile.
Oh this one works--from the cover (although it's supposed to be multi-tatted bad boy Carter, he has no tatts) to the opening sequences in which we are introduced to him, and sweet, smaller, adorable and somewhat clumsy Marco.
That Marco is a civilian in a world where many of his best friends are military personnel at Fort Dale (several of whom are crucial to this book and had their own stories in other tomes) at least prepares him for the grumpy, chip-on-his-shoulder and very, very psychologically abused Carter.
Indeed, Carter is a brilliantly drawn character and how he evolves with Marco to guide him along is a surprising twist to a plot that is here and there and sometimes a bit scratchy but still taut enough to keep you going.
This is only the second of this series that I've read and I think I will pursue to others, as well as the companion series "Heroes of Port Dale" because in the end it made me smile.
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