Staff Sgt. Shane Logan is lucky to have come from a privileged family, and after losing both of his legs in the war, he now has the best prosthetics that money can buy. While he is trying to move forward with life, he struggles with the past and the way people react to him and his disability.
Dr. Lauren Falcone works tirelessly to help veterans deal with the trauma and pain of their deployments. Her unique virtual approach to therapy keeps her busy, and the assistance she provides to service members as they recover mentally helps her resolve her own anxieties.
When Shane meets Lauren at a fundraiser for his father’s organization, he wonders if there just might be a chance for him to get his dream off the ground and maybe find a normal life with someone who can look past his flaws and see the man he is inside.
Shane and Lauren are drawn to each other by their hope to make life easier for veterans, both physically and emotionally. Their goal is to build Shane’s dream organization, Rise Again Warrior, that will assist veterans to integrate more easily into society and have the opportunity to receive state-of-the-art technology and therapy.
Now, if they can only have faith in themselves, learn to deal with their own demons, and believe in each other, they might find a way to bring this dream to fruition.
The second book in the series will be released in May to coincide with Memorial Day.
Stacy Eaton is a USA Today Best Selling author and began her writing career in October of 2010. Stacy took an early retirement from law enforcement after over fifteen years of service in 2016, with her last three years in investigations and crime scene investigation to write full time.
Stacy resides in southeastern Pennsylvania with her husband, who works in law enforcement, and her teen daughter. She also has a son who is currently serving in the United States Navy.
Stacy is very involved in Domestic Violence Awareness and served on the Board of Directors for her local Domestic Violence Center for three years.
In this fast-paced and fairly busy romance, Shane Logan has fought his losses and to a large extent has overcome the physical disabilities imposed on him by war, however, he still has a lot of catching up to do mentally and emotionally as his damaged facade brings him daily in contact with the reaction of strangers to his scars. His initial meetings with Dr Laura Falcone are disastrous, but after being introduced to her, he discovers that she has no adverse reaction to his appearance but rather sees him at soul-level. The plot is inspiring and praise-worthy as Shane and Laura work together to bring about a foundation for wounded warriors, but they both have unresolved pain in their lives that has an inconvenient way of manifesting itself. A phrase from the book: “Not all war zones are overseas”, brings one up with a jolt as there are so many other battles being fought in society and very few of them bring honour or glory. This novel is well written, emotional, and informative, and comes to a triumphant conclusion. I received a copy of this romance as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
This is an emotional book about veterans that is well written. This book made me think, and opened my eyes to what some of the men and women go through when they come back from war. Lauren and Shane have had unthinkable things happen to them—Shane in war and Lauren in New York. Lauren is a wonderful psychologist who helps veterans who are having emotional problems.
At first, I didn’t know if I liked Shane’s father, but as I got in the book I really began to understand and like him. The relationship between Lauren and Shane has ups and downs that frustrated me at times. I loved that because Shane and his family had money, Shane wanted to do something to help veterans to get expensive equipment most can’t afford. He also wanted to help them acclimate back into civilian life. It was heart warming to see someone who has money be down to earth and think of others. I definitely had tears at time in this book. I look forward to future books and learning more about the women and men who fight for my freedom. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy of the book and voluntarily wrote a review.
This has to be one of the most emotional, heart wrenching , eye opening stories that I have ever read! This drew me in from the very start and I have to say the author has done the most amazing job in capturing the service men and woman and the extreme difficulties some face when they go home! This had me in tears, it made me laugh and it had me so frustrated at times I could scream! There’s drama, there’s family, there’s battles to be won and there’s a spark of romance and hope! A truly fantastic read!
Overall 4 out of 5 stars Performance 3 out of 5 stars Story 4 out of 5 stars
Clean contemporary romance with heart and real life. Lauren was a doctor with a tragic past of her own, but no matter she worked to help others that needed her and the support she could provide. Then there was the night she met Shane. The panic around her began to set in. They encountered each other multiple times in one night. The connection was evident. The journey for both Shane and Lauren was one that needed trust, respect, and honesty. Both had something terrible happened to them. Both not willing to open up and share. They had to learn that the other was there for them.
Lauren and Shane found different ways to deal with their scars. Both were open to helping others. Both had they own way of wanting to help. This for me was an emotional story that was a reflections of the world around us and the sacrifices made and not rewarded with respect and kindness.
Thank you Stacy. This was one that will have some people thinking a bit more on what they can do to be more of a help to their fellow man/woman.
Now onto the narrator, this was a bit hard for me. I for the most part enjoy Ryan Clark and his narration. This time around I was feeling cheated by the female influence. There was a feminine presence needed to make this feel that much more. I got lost in his voice and it was hard to keep up with which POV was being presented or should I say heard. I missed the feminine tones and pitches.
Reasons I enjoyed this book: Easy-to-read Entertaining Informative Inspirational Realistic Wonderful characters
There are times when a book just hits the heart, and Stacy Eaton's Mission: Believe has done this for me. I am a lover of military romances, but this book is so much more. When Shaun and Lauren meet, it's not Shaun's typical introduction. As a disabled veteran, he has grown accustomed to the stares of his scars. But Lauren doesn't see that. So when the opportunity comes up to work with her on a dream project he has, he is thrilled. But it comes with strings from his father. Will the strings tie these two together? Sounds like a romance, and it is. But what we get is so much more. Eaton has taken us into the life of a veteran and let us see life through his eyes. The adjustment to civilian life, and the ability to trust and believe in people is not easy. We also get to see that everyone is flawed, and there is always something to work through. We get a glimpse at PTSD not only from a veteran perspective, but from a civilian experience. It's a heart wrenching, heart warming story that will tug at all of your emotions and leave you fulfilled. I love this book, and it will definitely be one of my top listens of the year!
Ryan Clark is a new to me narrator and I enjoyed his voices. He is able to capture the essence of what Stacy Eaton wanted to portray to the listener and gives the story so much depth.
Shane and Lauren both are struggling from PTSD. Their characters are such inspirations with their drive. Shane was injured by an IED, Lauren by a attack that nearly left her dead. They each are trying to live their lives post attack. A chance meeting brings them together, and Shane shares his dream of a place where vets can receive the help, Lauren is a psychologist who works with veteran. There is a spark between Shane and Lauren. Will they over come their pain , to work together and find happiness. A brilliant book
Being a 17-year veteran of the US Air Force, I found this book to be as close to believable as possible. Dr. Lauren Falcone is a psychologist working for the Veterans Administration. Due to her own trauma, she holds her sessions via video conference. Shane Logan is a Marine who lost his legs to an IED (Improvised Explosive Device) in Afghanistan. This story talks about Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) and the real problems our military members can bring home with them when they return stateside. There is also a depiction of a mugging that turned into murder with a civilian also facing PTS(D). There is plenty of romance and the story ends in a HEA. Very highly recommended.
As a veteran I can honestly say this was a beautifully written book! The characters emotions were so relatable that you couldn’t help but sink right into the story. Highly recommend you read this amazing book!
Once again Stacy Eaton writes a story will all the emotional rollercoasters of real life. Her characters are always so well written and engaging that you can't help but get sucked into their storylines. "Mission: Believe" is no expectation. It opens your eyes as a reader to life as a wounded vet and all the ups and downs that life has thrown at them. I can't wait to see where she takes this series. This book and others by this author are a great addition to your book collection. Happy Reading...enjoy!
We have no idea the trauma soldiers go through. How live live with what they witnessed and did to protect our freedom and those of others far away. They leave one way and come back totally altered. Stacy gives us a Birdseye view of the aftermath. A true reality check
What an incredible story! I've always loved the military romance genre, and this one is something special. Someone warned me to have tissues ready, and I'm glad I took the advice. Believe is a beautifully written and emotionally charged tale that pulls on your heartstrings. Human endurance can be astonishing, especially when there is someone there to provide love and support. Stacy Eaton is a master storyteller, capturing the overwhelming emotional and physical challenges of two scarred characters. Shane and Lauren's journey is a phenomenal love story between a wounded warrior and a therapist. The ending was perfect; it had me crying happy tears. Honestly, after listening to this book, my heart goes out to all the men and women who serve, and I have nothing but the utmost respect and admiration for them.
Ryan Clark narration was stellar. He captured the nuances of the characters, the intensity of their emotions and literally breathing life into the story. All in all, this was an incredibly moving novel, one I'll highly recommend
I love a good military story and this one was everything that I expected. One wounded warrior plus one wounded therapist…and a dream. Shane has returned home scarred and missing limbs, but he has a dream…he wants to use his family’s wealth for good. Shane wants to start a foundation that provides top-notch programs for returning service members. When Shane’s slightly overbearing father introduces him to Lauren, he is immediately intrigued because she sees beyond his scars. In spite of being forced together by Shane’s father, the duo develop feelings for each other. But will their past experiences keep them apart. Great HEA! Looking forward to the next book. I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What can I say about this book Stacey was really able to bring a voice the the pain and suffering caused my trauma. The horrors one can go through after suffering unimaginable pain, physical and mental. This book was amazing on all levels, while it focused on the vets coming home not the same as they left, it also showed that you don't have to go to war to be emotionally damaged. I strongly recommend this book, it is amazing on every level.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such a good story. I loved how damaged, but perfect, Lauren and Shane were. The issues they both grappled with that were so well written. This book was powerful, emotional and pretty perfect.
I actually read these books out of order, so I enjoyed seeing how Rise Again Warrior got its start.
This is a touching, at times heartbreaking story that gives us a glimpse of the obstacles that an injured veteran faces upon returning not only to his/her family, but also to society and living as a civilian. In this case, it’s the story of Staff Sargeant Shane Logan . Shane was injured in a mission gone wrong in Afghanistan. He’s a double amputee and no matter how wealthy his family is, happiness and self-esteem can’t be bought and his injuries are not only physical. He has a dream, one he’s not sure he’ll get a chance to realize. Dr. Lauren Falcone is a therapist that works with veterans. Few know that she too is a victim and her trauma might not be one from war but is just as deep . Shane and Lauren meet by chance (or maybe not) not knowing that their lives would change forever. When Shane’s father encourages them to work together to fulfill Shane’s dream, feelings betweene them grows. But the past in their lives seems to be an obstacle hard to overcome. The plot is engaging from the beginning to the end and the characters are perfect in their imperfections. All that said what I appreciated most was the fact that the author reminds us that the brave men and women who are willing to fight for our safety at home, frequently return not only with physical, but also emotional and psychological injuries. We as a nation, as individuals, and the private sector need to do more for these individuals. Kudos to the author for that reminder. Looking forward to the next story in this series. Ryan Clark , the narrator, did a good job with the various voices.
Facts and fiction-Great story! Heart breaking. the romance is fiction but the parts about what our Vets go through after serving our country are true. this is a wonderful story about what proper counseling, and some understanding and love from the people around you can do.
Mission: Believe is the first book in the Rise Again Warrior Series and also my first read by Stacy Eaton. This story left me raw and emotionally drained as I followed Shane and Lauren through their turmoil and the the battle with PTSD that so many returned veterans face on a daily basis. This is definitely a story that will pull on your heartstrings and at times leave you crying ugly as these unique and genuine people face their insecurities and fears. An exceptionally well-written story, with a wonderful cast of secondary characters and plenty of fodder for future books. I’m looking forward to reading more of Ms Eaton’s work.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This novel really opened up my eyes to how hard it can be for veterans to reintegrate into normal again. Life has changed completely for them, and we do not understand all they’ve gone through and seen, as well as how others view them. Whether it is physical or emotional scarring, they have changed as a person and this novel really gives a great perspective on how they struggle and are probably harder on themselves than others are on them.
Lauren has her own issues and fears to face and she is doing her best to face those and yet her sole focus in life is not herself, but others. Lauren does what she can to help those how have seen the horrors or war and now have to try and get back into a normal routine at home again. Therapy helps most, and she cannot help all but she knows she is making a difference.
Shane is still struggling with his integration back into normal society and his father seems to not understand he has all gone through. He struggles every day and he has finally come up with something he wants to try and do. A organization he wants to start to help other vets like him- he is lucky enough to come from a family who has money and is getting the care and help he needs for his wounds but there are tons out there who are not as lucky.
Lauren and Shane meet at a fundraiser set up by Shane’s father- both were not looking forward to going due to their struggles to be out in public but they both know its for a good cause and do all they can to be there and be active. Shane brings his proposal to his father, just waiting for it to get shot down when he surprises him with being interested and sets up a time for him to go over it further. Lauren gets a call from Mr. Logan and he has a proposal he has to offer her for another sort of fundraiser he has in mind.
Mr. Logan has agreed to help Shane get his organization off the ground but has some ultimatums in mind and if Shane does not agree then its off the table and he will have to see about finding a different way to get funding. Lauren accepts the offer. It’s a change of pace and will be a new start for her and she can still help the veterans as it is all through virtual calls. But soon the two of them find out that Mr. Logan has other plans in place to get this organization off the ground.
I really enjoyed this novel. I liked that the author had two characters that both has similar but different issues that they had to work through to help themselves and each other and that she really dug deep into the struggles and challenges veterans and those with ptsd face every single day. I did enjoy the pov coming from both Shane and Lauren, as each had their own past that had developed them into who they were. I am excited to read the others in helping me to better understand the struggles and strength of those who have been in these situations.
Thank you to the author and Author Marketing Experts, Inc for reaching out and sending me the free books. I at least have one more to read before I’d have to get the others.
Mission: Believe Rise Again Warrior Series, Book 1 By: Stacy Eaton Narrated by: Ryan Clark
Every once in a while you come across a book that deserves so much more than a 5 star rating and Stacy Eaton’s “Mission Believe” is definitely one fo those books. The story grabbed both my attention and my heart right from the start and held it straight to the end. The characters are realistic and easy to connect with. I loved how the two leads, Staff Sergeant Shane Logan and Dr. Lauren Falcone first meet, well technically run into each other. Also loved that Shane’s father saw there was something between the two. Lauren is a therapist and works with veterans who are suffering from PTSD from what they’ve been thru while serving in the Armed Forces, some are having trouble acclimating back to civilian life, some are having trouble with nightmares and/or survivors guilt. Lauren has found a unique way to reach out to them and she built a good rapport with many. She loves her job and takes it to heart, though she has her own inner demons ones she never shares. Shane, is scarred both physically and psychologically, he has his own demons and hangups but he thinks he has found a way he could give back to his brothers and sisters in arms. With the help of his family’s influence he is going to create a non-profit organization that will help returned servicemen and women who need it. He wants the wounded to have access to the best medical equipment and the best support services too. I loved everything about this story, it is brilliantly plotted and contains a whole lot of heart. It moved me like no other, I can not give this book enough praise and I highly recommend to all. Stacy Eaton, thank you for this amazing story, I felt like I knew these characters personally and was rooting for them the entire time.
I listened to the Audible edition, Stacy Eaton perfectly casted Ryan Clark to bring her characters and their story to life. He does an awesome job portraying them, capturing their persona with perfection. You could hear how much heart he put into work as he projects the characters emotions into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. I loved touching performance at the end too. Thank you for the wonderful listen 🎧
“Mission: Believe” is the first book in the ‘Rise Again Warrior’ series by Stacy Eaton. It’s a fast-paced story about two people who have survived different types of life shattering trauma, and are fighting every day to move forward in a meaningful way.
Staff Sgt. Shane Logan is a double amputee after surviving a bomb blast while on deployment overseas. The son of a wealthy family, he’s aware of how much he’s benefited by being able to afford the very best prosthetics, treatment and physical therapy that money can buy. He really wants to give other veterans the same chance he had to maximize recovery. Dr. Laura Falcone is a psychologist who treats veterans struggling with various issues after returning home from military service. One of the things that makes her such an excellent therapist is her personal experience with trauma. No, she never served in the military, but something in her past is certainly just as shattering. I don’t want to give away more of the plot because the author does a great job revealing everything at just the right pace, and I don’t want to take away from that.
The way Shane and Laura meet is simultaneously fun and intriguing. His scars from life are much more visible than hers, but they are both struggling, each in their own way. When Shane’s wealthy and influential father realizes that Shane and Laura would be a good match to make Shane’s dream of helping other veterans become a reality, so many lives are about to change. Believe me when I say that this is a powerful book, and one that will stay with you long after you read the last paragraph.
The secondary characters in this story are excellent. Some of them, like Shane’s parents, turned out to be much more than what I first expected them to be. Although this is a “clean” romance, the chemistry between Shane and Laura comes through strongly on the page. Some scenes in this story are so devastating that you might find yourself in tears, but I promise you that it’s really a very uplifting book. The ending has a cinematic quality that left me thinking how great this book would be as a movie. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next book in this series, which I’ve already purchased.
I've come to love military romances but this is so much more than that. Our author has written a fictional tribute to those people that have made sacrifices for our country. I hope you've had a chance to thank some of these heroes. Or maybe you've had a chance to volunteer or made a donation to some of the charities out there.
This story had me remembering how privileged I felt to shake hands with some of the heroes that returned to our local Air Force base during Desert Storm. Our group also took fruits and water to hand out to those that came through the hangar where we were.
This story, however, is more recent but what I felt at that time came out here. This shows the reader that there are ways we can help to honor those from the military that need help. It made me hope that there is an organization exactly like this one out there. If not, I hope someone would ask the author to steal her idea. Both Shane and Lauren have issues but working together it helps them overcome some of their issues and to create something much needed.
Not having heard this narrator before, I wasn't sure about Mr. Clark getting me invested into what was going on. He does an ok job with the women's voices and thank goodness he doesn't go with the high pitch that some may attempt to do. But I had no trouble think of him as Shane. I would get so lost in the book that I almost forgot what I was doing at the time. During his reading, Mr. Clark gives the reader a treat and left me with a surprise which made me really glad that I had the chance to listen to him and to fall in love with the series. In the end, Ms. Eaton made the perfect choice for the person who was going to bring her words to life.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
This is book one in The Rise Again Warrior Series and it is Shane and Lauren's story. Shane was in the military but when a IED exploded he lost both legs and has scares all over the one side of his face and people look at him with distaste which makes him feel vulnerable he is now at his father's fundraiser for disabled children and they is were he meets Lauren when she tips a glass of wine over.him and herself. Lauren has helped Mr Logan with the fundraiser not knowing that he is Shane's father, Lauren is a doctor and also help military veteran's get through some of the trauma that they have been through as part of her job which she does from home due to something that she went through a few years and she suffers from anxiety. When Shane's father offered to help Shane get his project off the ground he also wanted Lauren to help as well due to her experiences but Shane's father also had a few stipulations and a ultimatum that they had to follow for it to work. Shane and Lauren's situation becomes difficult as there chemistry and feelings for each other start to get serious but Shane still keeps Lauren at arm's length and what is Shane's father up to as he seems to have his own agenda. Omg this book was amazing and all the twists and turns along the way pulled you in right from the first page and I couldn't put this book down as it was so addictive. This is the first book that I have read by Stacy Eaton but definitely not the last as she has written about some difficult subject matter with great sensitivity and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
VERY VERY Good story. Well written with : drama, suspense, self examination, family, suffering ( physical & mental ) romance....and more !! Not many books like this. 4 1/2 ☆☆.....I took off 1/2 ☆☆ due to some unnecessary foul language and @3/4 of the story it got got bogged down just a bit. Overall, a GREAT story to share a glimpse of what many of our Military go thru.
I don’t even know where to start with this book other than it’s a must read. I’ve read many books and many from this author but this my favorite book I’ve read. I will be telling all my friends this is one book you will want to read. The book is so real, raw, and in some places hard to read since it hits the reality of our veterans and what they go through. The description of what Staff Sergeant Shane Logan went though losing his legs, his face scarred and having people looking at him with disgust and pity. This is something our veterans come home to and have to deal with everyday. The suicide rate of verterans is extreely high. Also, the other main character Dr. Lauren Falcone has gone through a horrific situation and is both physically and mentally scarred as well. Bottom line, is we truly don’t know what people are dealing with or what happend.
The description of the book by the author is perfect. My son-in-law is in the Army and I thank God he hasn’t had anything physically happen to him in Afghanistan but from one he’s told us, this book nailed it. This is a must read for everyone and it does give you hope that through everything veterans go through there is hope. I look forward to reading more in the series and just as a warning have tissue nearby.
Two people with PTSD, Shane was gravely injured by an IED, Lauren by a senseless attack that nearly left her dead. They each are trying to live their lives post attack. Lauren is a psychologist, working with veterans in group and private therapy, but on her computer in her own home. She prefers the safety and calm she finds there. Shane is living in NYC, and never has returned to his family and home in Tennessee. He is ashamed of his weakness and the faces of people who look away from him when they see his scars and wheelchair. A chance meeting brings them together, and Shane shares his dream of a place where vets can receive the help, encouragement and equipment he was lucky to receive since his family is wealthy. Lauren loves the idea, and with the encouragement of his father and Lauren, Shane moves to his family home to get things in motion. There is a spark between Shane and Lauren. Can they rise above their individual pain to work together on this project and even the rest of their lives?
This is the first book in the Rise Again Warrior Series. Ms. Eaton takes on a subject that most people overlook. The trials and turmoil that our wounded men and women face when they return home from war. You will need a box of tissue for this book. Staff Sgt. Shane Logan came home from the war wounded and missing both of his legs. Shane was fortunate to come from a family with money so he had the best prosthetics that money could buy. But not all warriors come from money. Seeing a great need for our Veterans, Shane partners with Dr. Lauren Falcone to start an organization to be able to provide for our wounded Veterans. While spending and evening with Lauren, Shane discovers that not all wars are fought on foreign soil. Lauren went through a war herself and is suffering from PTSD. Can Shane and Lauren learn to accept their past and allow love in their life? This is an emotional story and so well written. This will be a wonderful series!
This is my first read of one of Stacy Eaton's books. First, I love her writing style and I truly appreciate the back and forth so that you get each character's perspectives. I enjoy the tiny overlap / retelling of a situation from the other view. Her character development is great, there is a slow progression that builds at a steady pace and allows you to get a full picture of them as individuals. This story is filled with emotion and ups and downs but it is done with a grace that doesn't force the reader to fill like it's been an unending rollercoaster. Instead it is a rise and fall with plateaus in between that allows you to grasp the emotion without having to be ingrained in it. The story is beautifully gut-wrenching in its depiction of not only veterans but survivors. I enjoyed the interactions with the supporting cast as much as the main characters. Really great read. I would recommend it and I can't wait to read more in the series.
Wow. What can I say about this but that it was absolutely incredible. Heartbreakingly incredible. Laura is a psychologist treating returned vets virtually. She is not comfortable leaving her home after an extremely traumatic event four years ago. Very, very traumatic. She is asked to help with a fundraiser and it is an enormous success. A billionaire asks her to help him also after her success. At the fundraiser she meets wounded vet Shane. He has a terrible scar on his face and lost both of his legs in Afghanistan. They both get on very well but he gets very upset about something and leaves. What she doesn't realise is that he is the son of the billionaire. Shane has a dream and has had it for quite some time. He wants to help wounded vets. Because his family has money, he has top-of-the-line prosthetics. But others cannot afford these and just have basic ones. I cannot speak highly enough of this book and if I could give it ten stars I would. Very, very highly recommended book.