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One RECON mission changed everything.
I was no longer the same person I was before that mission.
And now that I was back home, I never intended on showing my face again. Instead, I chose to stay hidden.
Alone.
Damaged.
Lost.
I might as well have been dead.
But then Maren Corley found me.
She made me feel alive, even when I pushed her away.
Maren reminded me of who I used to be.
Who I could have been.
In another life, maybe we could have been something special.
There were just too many obstacles for us in this one, though.
My trauma.
My damage.
My secrets.
Not to mention the relationship I had with her sister.
*TW include: PTSD and the effects of PTSD. For more in depth content warnings, please visit: katieraebooks .com as some may lead to spoilers.
I was no longer the same person I was before that mission.
And now that I was back home, I never intended on showing my face again. Instead, I chose to stay hidden.
Alone.
Damaged.
Lost.
I might as well have been dead.
But then Maren Corley found me.
She made me feel alive, even when I pushed her away.
Maren reminded me of who I used to be.
Who I could have been.
In another life, maybe we could have been something special.
There were just too many obstacles for us in this one, though.
My trauma.
My damage.
My secrets.
Not to mention the relationship I had with her sister.
*TW include: PTSD and the effects of PTSD. For more in depth content warnings, please visit: katieraebooks .com as some may lead to spoilers.
Unknown Binding
Published February 24, 2022
25 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 11, 2023
I have read Ranger and loved it. This series can be read as standalones. I wonder why he is so focused on being alone. What happened to him to want to keep everyone away from him.
Emotional read poor Garrett I kept wondering why he wanted everyone to believe he was dead. I'm glad they both got their second chance.
Emotional read poor Garrett I kept wondering why he wanted everyone to believe he was dead. I'm glad they both got their second chance.
February 22, 2022
☆Second Chance
☆Single Mum
☆Crazy ex no one likes
☆Best friends sister
☆Marine Hotty
Newly released Marine Garrett finds him self home alone and having to face with his demons from the past and with no hope for his future he struggles to find peace. Maren is a single newly mummy trying to live the best life she can for her baby and that means taking a job she can't refuse. With secrets of her own can they both help each other, learn from each other get the happily ever after that both so much deserve?!?!
This is far from my usual read, but none the less i can tell you now IT DID NOT DISAPOINT! From the very first chapter I got hooked, it was a easy smooth going read. This was a very emotional roller coaster. I fell hard for Garrett and Marens characters specially garrett his story about PTSD touched me in so many ways. Some stages had me all warm a fuzzy, other times so so tense and screaming at my kindle well then others had me literally crying! (Chapter 18 had everything) so chapter 18 had me crying at one stage but then also had me brimming with excitement. I like that we have a little spice there, but it isn't all surrounded by sex! There is a solid background story that actually even if you took the spice away will still make an amazing read!! An amazing book 100% recommend this one
5/5 ☆☆☆☆☆
4/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶
☆Single Mum
☆Crazy ex no one likes
☆Best friends sister
☆Marine Hotty
Newly released Marine Garrett finds him self home alone and having to face with his demons from the past and with no hope for his future he struggles to find peace. Maren is a single newly mummy trying to live the best life she can for her baby and that means taking a job she can't refuse. With secrets of her own can they both help each other, learn from each other get the happily ever after that both so much deserve?!?!
This is far from my usual read, but none the less i can tell you now IT DID NOT DISAPOINT! From the very first chapter I got hooked, it was a easy smooth going read. This was a very emotional roller coaster. I fell hard for Garrett and Marens characters specially garrett his story about PTSD touched me in so many ways. Some stages had me all warm a fuzzy, other times so so tense and screaming at my kindle well then others had me literally crying! (Chapter 18 had everything) so chapter 18 had me crying at one stage but then also had me brimming with excitement. I like that we have a little spice there, but it isn't all surrounded by sex! There is a solid background story that actually even if you took the spice away will still make an amazing read!! An amazing book 100% recommend this one
5/5 ☆☆☆☆☆
4/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶
February 24, 2022
There are times when I read a book that it affects me so much I don’t know how to write a review worthy of how I feel about the story. This is one of those cases.
Garrett’s story unfortunately is so common among the military. He lost not only his squad of best friends but also himself while on a failed Recon Mission. Trying to hide from the world and wallow in his self pity his comes home to hide.
Maren had to mourn Garrett’s assumed loss alone because no one knew the depth of her feelings. A random twist of fate allows her to be the one to discover him and try to help him come “back to life”.
I can’t say more without spoiling anything, but this book gave me so many feelings. Do yourself a favor and get it. While your at it, grab the other stand-alones in this series.
Garrett’s story unfortunately is so common among the military. He lost not only his squad of best friends but also himself while on a failed Recon Mission. Trying to hide from the world and wallow in his self pity his comes home to hide.
Maren had to mourn Garrett’s assumed loss alone because no one knew the depth of her feelings. A random twist of fate allows her to be the one to discover him and try to help him come “back to life”.
I can’t say more without spoiling anything, but this book gave me so many feelings. Do yourself a favor and get it. While your at it, grab the other stand-alones in this series.
February 21, 2022
“I think you stayed because someone up there knew I would need you."- Maren
Just when I thought Katie couldn't surprise me anymore she delivers this incredibly powerful story of loss and love.
Garret's story broke my heart. Even while I was yelling at him to stop being a jerk I felt his pain and knew there was a reason. I never could have imagined it was what he revealed though. I actually had to put it down for a minute to process my shock. The way Katie wrote around it was amazing.
Maren is one of the strongest heroines I've read. From her heartbreak to her unplanned future, she radiates resilience and strength, even when she doesn't realize it. The support and love she offers Garrett is everything, even when he was pushing her away.
Seeing Maren and Garrett find themselves in each other was beautiful. I was so emotionally invested in their story every twist hit me hard. This is one of those books you will turn to during a bad day to get comfort from.
Just when I thought Katie couldn't surprise me anymore she delivers this incredibly powerful story of loss and love.
Garret's story broke my heart. Even while I was yelling at him to stop being a jerk I felt his pain and knew there was a reason. I never could have imagined it was what he revealed though. I actually had to put it down for a minute to process my shock. The way Katie wrote around it was amazing.
Maren is one of the strongest heroines I've read. From her heartbreak to her unplanned future, she radiates resilience and strength, even when she doesn't realize it. The support and love she offers Garrett is everything, even when he was pushing her away.
Seeing Maren and Garrett find themselves in each other was beautiful. I was so emotionally invested in their story every twist hit me hard. This is one of those books you will turn to during a bad day to get comfort from.
February 21, 2022
Military Hero ✅
Single Mother ✅
Second Chance ✅
Best Friends Little Sister ✅
Small Town Romance ✅
Emotional Read ✅
Garrett Pierson joined the Marines right out of high school. He had no family left and wanted to get out of the small town he lived in, he found family with his brothers in arms. The night before he went on the Recon Mission, he crossed the lines with someone he should have never allowed himself to want. He carried that night with him into his mission. When his platoon was ambushed, and all of his fellow soldiers was killed Garrett watched his friend die in his arms. He lost a lot that day but most of all Garrett might as well have died there in that sandy dessert because he will never be whole again.
Maren Corley is a single mother who is struggling under the weight of everything, bills, and helping her mother care for her father. When her boss tells her there is a cleaning job in her town that is willing to pay a little more for discretion Maren cannot turn it down. In her haste to accept the job she didn't even look at the address, it's his family's home. Why would someone want that house cleaned, no one lives there because Garrett, her high school crush, died in his last mission according to the news.
Garrett doesn't want anyone to know he is back but is someone else pulling the strings of his life? Maybe he was saved for a reason, maybe the company that was hired to clean the house was the one Maren worked at for a reason.
Plot 5/5 ✨
Spice 4/5 🌶️
This was the first ever book I have read by Katie Rae, and it won't be the last one. She knows how to write an emotional rollercoaster of a story. Your heart instantly hurts with all the pain that Garrett is dealing with. I cried before I got passed the Prologue and cried many times throughout this story. She detailed the real effects of seeing war, losing people, and coming home completely changed with a bad case of PTSD. She also detailed what happens to people who loved the solider coming home broken. You don't just hurt for Garrett, but you hurt for Maren and the friends that he left behind.
Normally I can predict what happens in the story, but Katie threw in some plot twist that I didn't see coming. It kept me on my toes and made me not be able to put this book down until I finished it. Even though this is a story that will make you cry it is worth the tears and the time to read it. It is an amazing story of overcoming your struggles and the determination to live your life when all you want to do is give up. It is an amazing love story of not only romance but friendship.
This quote stood out the most to me. "I am not what has happened; I am what I have overcome" Garrett
Single Mother ✅
Second Chance ✅
Best Friends Little Sister ✅
Small Town Romance ✅
Emotional Read ✅
Garrett Pierson joined the Marines right out of high school. He had no family left and wanted to get out of the small town he lived in, he found family with his brothers in arms. The night before he went on the Recon Mission, he crossed the lines with someone he should have never allowed himself to want. He carried that night with him into his mission. When his platoon was ambushed, and all of his fellow soldiers was killed Garrett watched his friend die in his arms. He lost a lot that day but most of all Garrett might as well have died there in that sandy dessert because he will never be whole again.
Maren Corley is a single mother who is struggling under the weight of everything, bills, and helping her mother care for her father. When her boss tells her there is a cleaning job in her town that is willing to pay a little more for discretion Maren cannot turn it down. In her haste to accept the job she didn't even look at the address, it's his family's home. Why would someone want that house cleaned, no one lives there because Garrett, her high school crush, died in his last mission according to the news.
Garrett doesn't want anyone to know he is back but is someone else pulling the strings of his life? Maybe he was saved for a reason, maybe the company that was hired to clean the house was the one Maren worked at for a reason.
Plot 5/5 ✨
Spice 4/5 🌶️
This was the first ever book I have read by Katie Rae, and it won't be the last one. She knows how to write an emotional rollercoaster of a story. Your heart instantly hurts with all the pain that Garrett is dealing with. I cried before I got passed the Prologue and cried many times throughout this story. She detailed the real effects of seeing war, losing people, and coming home completely changed with a bad case of PTSD. She also detailed what happens to people who loved the solider coming home broken. You don't just hurt for Garrett, but you hurt for Maren and the friends that he left behind.
Normally I can predict what happens in the story, but Katie threw in some plot twist that I didn't see coming. It kept me on my toes and made me not be able to put this book down until I finished it. Even though this is a story that will make you cry it is worth the tears and the time to read it. It is an amazing story of overcoming your struggles and the determination to live your life when all you want to do is give up. It is an amazing love story of not only romance but friendship.
This quote stood out the most to me. "I am not what has happened; I am what I have overcome" Garrett
February 23, 2022
KATIE’S BEST BOOK YET!! ABSOLUTELY HEARTBREAKING YET AMAZINGLY ROMANTIC!
When I say this is Katie’s best book yet I mean with my whole heart! This is the 3rd book in her military series and it broke my heart to pieces then ended with an incredible HEA!
Garrett and Maren’s story is one that could easily be true in the real world. They both have secrets that they are keeping close to the chest. Garrett is a Marine who has come home to heal after his team is ambushed in a RECON mission. He only wants to be left alone, yet he knows he can’t take care of his family home by himself. He gets a housekeeper hired but doesn’t realize it’s a woman from his past.
Maren is a young woman with a secret that runs deep and will do or say anything to keep that secret buried. She is the woman hired, through her employer, to clean Garrett’s house.
Garrett doesn’t stay hidden for long and soon Maren is face to face with someone she never thought she’d see again, ever.
This book will snag you from the first chapter and will NOT let you go until you find yourself reading “The End”. This book hits incredibly hard for a mother and daughter of a Marine and I will be eternally grateful to Katie for writing a book with the depth, emotion and truth behind an injured and broken military member.
If I could give it anything above a 5 star review I would in a heartbeat, because 5 stars just doesn’t seem like enough. Thank you Katie for this phenomenal book that I will forever read and read again!!
When I say this is Katie’s best book yet I mean with my whole heart! This is the 3rd book in her military series and it broke my heart to pieces then ended with an incredible HEA!
Garrett and Maren’s story is one that could easily be true in the real world. They both have secrets that they are keeping close to the chest. Garrett is a Marine who has come home to heal after his team is ambushed in a RECON mission. He only wants to be left alone, yet he knows he can’t take care of his family home by himself. He gets a housekeeper hired but doesn’t realize it’s a woman from his past.
Maren is a young woman with a secret that runs deep and will do or say anything to keep that secret buried. She is the woman hired, through her employer, to clean Garrett’s house.
Garrett doesn’t stay hidden for long and soon Maren is face to face with someone she never thought she’d see again, ever.
This book will snag you from the first chapter and will NOT let you go until you find yourself reading “The End”. This book hits incredibly hard for a mother and daughter of a Marine and I will be eternally grateful to Katie for writing a book with the depth, emotion and truth behind an injured and broken military member.
If I could give it anything above a 5 star review I would in a heartbeat, because 5 stars just doesn’t seem like enough. Thank you Katie for this phenomenal book that I will forever read and read again!!
February 24, 2022
Buckle up and be prepared to me wowed . Recon By Katie Rae is definitely falls under my absolute favorite reads for 2022 . I have to start by saying that Katie is on my list of all time favorite authors. I can say with certainty that there has never been a book of hers I have not absolutely adored . Recon is a true masterpiece, a perfect example of just how truly phenomenal her writing is . Be prepared though because it is a emotional rollercoaster. It’s raw and gritty , angsty , suspenseful, intriguing, heartfelt, heartbreaking and it will pull at all your heartstrings so completely.Maren and Garret two people who are meant to be together yet fought against their attraction with everything inside them .Neither wanting to Hurt Cara who was Maren’s sister and garrets best friend But what happens when the attraction can no longer be denied . And what happens when Garret is called away on a mission before they even have a chance to explore their feelings , leaving everything and everyone behind . Do they have a future together? There are so many things that happen , details I do not want to give away as I am a believer of going into a story with a open to experience how truly phenomenal it is . If you are looking for a book with all the feels look no further , you will laugh , you will cry , you will be sitting on the edge of your seat anticipating what’s going to happen next , I guarantee you will fall in love with RECON - it’s impossible not to
February 16, 2022
I’m still reeling from Garrett’s story. He’s one of those characters that digs into your heart and takes up residence. A marine veteran who experienced violence early in his career that has left him injured, emotionally and physically, and suffering with PTSD. These aren’t light issues, and the author handles them with seriousness and depth. Garrett is in need of healing, patience and understanding. Maren is his best friend’s little sister and he’s always felt something for her. The near-death experience he faced in battle, reminds him of her and at times she is the one thing that gets him through his struggles. Maren has her own secrets and has experienced struggles that have taken her dreams of an education and a career away. It’s quickly apparent that Maren and Garrett have always needed one another, and even through the tragic circumstances they haven’t only maintained their connection but need each other more than ever. This book gave me tears and managed to shock me with a twist I didn’t see coming. Even when it was revealed I found myself doubting that I could have missed it. Not many books can surprise me but this is the second time the author has done just that. I’ve become a loyal fan of Ms. Rae’s work that it continues to get better with each book!
February 13, 2022
Wow! I was hooked from the beginning and couldn’t get enough of Maren and Garrett. I was rooting for them to be together the whole way thru. Their chemistry while they tried to hide it from Maren’s sister, Garrett’s best friend, was obvious from the beginning. Maren also had an off and on relationship with a not so nice guy. I’ll leave it at that. Garrett was 3 years older, but the night before Garrett left on his Recon mission, a lot of things changed. When he came back nothing was the same. Rumors of him being dead from his mission had torn lives apart. Maren was tasked with cleaning the house where Garrett once lived. It’s all so much heartfelt memories, good times, and bad times from there. She was also living with her parents, helping take care of her dad, and taking care of another individual. You will have to read to find out who. When you do and secrets start to come out, you will be shocked. I know I was. Garret had been thru so much and has a hard time realizing that he has a reason for living. Can Maren possibly help him see that? Will these two be together in the end? I shed a few tears because love is definitely special and when you find that special someone, all you want to do is be the best person you can be for them.
February 13, 2022
This book tears you apart in the first few pages, you can not help but feel for Garrett, making you invested in his and Maren’s story. There were so many parts of this story that broke me. The author wrote these characters so well that you truly feel everything they went through together and apart. This story deals with finding opportunities to grow after loss, and does a good job addressing PTSD. I truly enjoyed their time together, but my favorite moment was when they went to the watering hole; he was willing to work so hard to move forward for Maren. I truly enjoyed the support system that was there in Maren’s family and his aunt. It It will definitely take you on an emotional roller coaster but it is worth every minute, I highly recommend you give it a try. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 22, 2022
A heart aching, beautifully crafted masterpiece! Prepare yourself for one emotional rollercoaster you never saw coming. I was definitely not prepared. But… wow!
RECON is by far the best book Rae has ever written. It will be hard to top this one. Maren and Garrett are everything.
I read this in one sitting which is so not conducive to getting any work done but it’s so worth it. You’ll be hooked from page one. Must read!
RECON is by far the best book Rae has ever written. It will be hard to top this one. Maren and Garrett are everything.
I read this in one sitting which is so not conducive to getting any work done but it’s so worth it. You’ll be hooked from page one. Must read!
February 27, 2022
A beautiful love story about two souls that had their lives uprooted when life steps in. A story about redemption and overcoming adversity and healing physical and mental wounds.
Katie Rae knocked it out of the park again. This books delivers the love story you expect but with twists and turns to get there.
Katie Rae knocked it out of the park again. This books delivers the love story you expect but with twists and turns to get there.
April 12, 2022
Recon definitely gives you all the feels and takes you on an emotional journey. This is a wonderful story of two broken souls drawn together, when they need it the most. Just a fantastic military romance.
February 10, 2022
Have you ever connected to a book within the first few pages? It’s a feeling that brings a reader such peace… you know you’re going to be invested. Recon is one of those books.
This book broke me in the best way. I was consumed with Garrett and Maren’s story. What they went through both together and apart made you feel so deep for these characters. Even if you’ve never been touched by loss or the military you would be drawn to this story. This is a story of loss, finding yourself again and becoming better for it.
This story will take you on an emotional ride but put you back together again better than you were before. It makes you think about what’s important and how the support from those you love is all you’ll ever need.
So damn good!
This book broke me in the best way. I was consumed with Garrett and Maren’s story. What they went through both together and apart made you feel so deep for these characters. Even if you’ve never been touched by loss or the military you would be drawn to this story. This is a story of loss, finding yourself again and becoming better for it.
This story will take you on an emotional ride but put you back together again better than you were before. It makes you think about what’s important and how the support from those you love is all you’ll ever need.
So damn good!
February 18, 2022
📖 ARC REVIEW 📖
Review: 4.5/5 ⭐️
Steam: 3.5/5 🔥
#recon by @katie_rae_author is another book in her military series which are all standalones.
Garrett is your typical military individual. He had hardened his emotions to the point where he doesn’t show much. Having to deal with loss of parents right at 18, he relied heavily on his friends from home and the family he built in the marines. Until a Recon mission changed everything. Being the lone survivor plagues him daily. So he feels as though he needs to hide from the world. Until someone comes to clean his house courtesy of his aunt. He tried to stay hidden, but when he sees who’s coming in the door, there’s only so much he can hide. This woman brings back more memories than he cares to think about. Can he let go of the past and see that he deserves his own happy life? Can he deal with more emotions coming at him than he expected?
Maren had all intentions of going to college and living life. Until unexpected changes had her staying back home and helping her parents. She’s hired for a job close to home but this residence brings back a lot of old memories. When she talks to the shadows, she feels someone there. But the person behind the door isn’t who she expects. Can she hold back feelings for the man in front of her? Or is she in to deep that nothing can change how she feels about him? Everyone has secrets, but will hers be their downfall?
Military books always hit different being a military spouse. This book showcased the traumas of deployments and the guild that survivors can feel. It didn’t shy away from talking about PTSD, but also shows that distraction isn’t healthy. There was a couple things I didn’t expect and was surprised about but in a good way. I definitely recommend this book for others to read and experience the honest relationship of these two.
Review: 4.5/5 ⭐️
Steam: 3.5/5 🔥
#recon by @katie_rae_author is another book in her military series which are all standalones.
Garrett is your typical military individual. He had hardened his emotions to the point where he doesn’t show much. Having to deal with loss of parents right at 18, he relied heavily on his friends from home and the family he built in the marines. Until a Recon mission changed everything. Being the lone survivor plagues him daily. So he feels as though he needs to hide from the world. Until someone comes to clean his house courtesy of his aunt. He tried to stay hidden, but when he sees who’s coming in the door, there’s only so much he can hide. This woman brings back more memories than he cares to think about. Can he let go of the past and see that he deserves his own happy life? Can he deal with more emotions coming at him than he expected?
Maren had all intentions of going to college and living life. Until unexpected changes had her staying back home and helping her parents. She’s hired for a job close to home but this residence brings back a lot of old memories. When she talks to the shadows, she feels someone there. But the person behind the door isn’t who she expects. Can she hold back feelings for the man in front of her? Or is she in to deep that nothing can change how she feels about him? Everyone has secrets, but will hers be their downfall?
Military books always hit different being a military spouse. This book showcased the traumas of deployments and the guild that survivors can feel. It didn’t shy away from talking about PTSD, but also shows that distraction isn’t healthy. There was a couple things I didn’t expect and was surprised about but in a good way. I definitely recommend this book for others to read and experience the honest relationship of these two.
March 25, 2022
Recon is such a beautiful heartfelt second chance romance that gave me all the feels. It is a part of a series but each book are standalone. This is the 3rd book so I’m kind of working backwards but I’m excited to read the others.
I read this book cover to cover in one night Garrett just about wrecked me. I don’t want to give anything away but basically Garrett is a Marine that returns home from a RECON mission a very different person from when he left. He’s closed off and hiding from the world and prefers ot that way. His aunt got him to agree to a housekeeping service once a week which he agreed too but only if he could remain anonymous and stay hidden in the bedroom while the maid was working. Maren is a young single mom who gave up her dreams of leaving the small town and going to collage. Not only to be a mom for her baby but also to help her parents after her father was injured. She works long grueling hours far from home so when the opportunity to clean a home in her town come up she took it no matter how weird the job seemed. She had no idea the anonymous person hiding in the bedroom while she cleaned the house was a close friend of her and her family and when she finds out she does everything she can to bring him to life and out of the shadows.
Garrett is Grumpy and snappy and Maren is soft hearted yet fearless. I loved both characters. Each had their own struggles and pain. The writing was beautifully done for such deep raw real emotional content. I just wanted to reach into the pages and hug them both.
100% would recommend this read. It has so much heart. There is drama there is secrets there is pain and there is love and steam. All the feels in this one
I read this book cover to cover in one night Garrett just about wrecked me. I don’t want to give anything away but basically Garrett is a Marine that returns home from a RECON mission a very different person from when he left. He’s closed off and hiding from the world and prefers ot that way. His aunt got him to agree to a housekeeping service once a week which he agreed too but only if he could remain anonymous and stay hidden in the bedroom while the maid was working. Maren is a young single mom who gave up her dreams of leaving the small town and going to collage. Not only to be a mom for her baby but also to help her parents after her father was injured. She works long grueling hours far from home so when the opportunity to clean a home in her town come up she took it no matter how weird the job seemed. She had no idea the anonymous person hiding in the bedroom while she cleaned the house was a close friend of her and her family and when she finds out she does everything she can to bring him to life and out of the shadows.
Garrett is Grumpy and snappy and Maren is soft hearted yet fearless. I loved both characters. Each had their own struggles and pain. The writing was beautifully done for such deep raw real emotional content. I just wanted to reach into the pages and hug them both.
100% would recommend this read. It has so much heart. There is drama there is secrets there is pain and there is love and steam. All the feels in this one
February 24, 2022
Katie Rae just continues to astonish me with her growth as an author! I've read all of her books and they just keep better & better. I want to start this out by saying if you haven't read her Men of the Military books then you need to add them all to your TBR immediately. I'm not usually one to read in the military romance but I took a chance when she put out Ranger and I haven't looked back since! She has written some of my favorite books of the past year or so.
OK - back to this book.... I don't even truly know where to begin. This was an absolutely beautifully written love story. Garrett is a broken man, understandably, after he returns home from a RECON mission where he is the sole survivor. He's so broken in fact that he hides away in his old family home and only one person even knows he's there. That is until a part of his past is hired to keep up with the house under the rouse that they're selling the property since his parents are dead and everyone in town believe Garrett to be dead too.
When Maren finally discovers that he's still very much alive she is shocked to say the least. However, Maren coming back into his life turns out to be the best thing that could've ever happened to him, no matter how hard the tried to fight it. Katie Rae handled the PTSD representation beautifully in this book. I really felt for this man and all that he was fighting through. Maren was the perfect person to come save him, so to speak.
I just love everything about this book. It was heart-wrenching in the best way possible. Absolutely beautiful. A masterpiece. Read this book.
OK - back to this book.... I don't even truly know where to begin. This was an absolutely beautifully written love story. Garrett is a broken man, understandably, after he returns home from a RECON mission where he is the sole survivor. He's so broken in fact that he hides away in his old family home and only one person even knows he's there. That is until a part of his past is hired to keep up with the house under the rouse that they're selling the property since his parents are dead and everyone in town believe Garrett to be dead too.
When Maren finally discovers that he's still very much alive she is shocked to say the least. However, Maren coming back into his life turns out to be the best thing that could've ever happened to him, no matter how hard the tried to fight it. Katie Rae handled the PTSD representation beautifully in this book. I really felt for this man and all that he was fighting through. Maren was the perfect person to come save him, so to speak.
I just love everything about this book. It was heart-wrenching in the best way possible. Absolutely beautiful. A masterpiece. Read this book.
April 20, 2022
Recon by Katie Rae 4.5 stars
Another amazing read by Katie Rae.
Recon pulled out all the emotions. My heart hurt for Garrett and the losses
He had experienced and everything that he had endured. He had essentially lost his fight and his will to fight until reconnecting with Maren. He's hiding out in his old family home just wanting to be left alone. In a strange twist of fate Maren is assigned to clean the home when the cleaning company she works for is hired for the job.
After a few weeks he let's his presence in the home be known. At first he is gruff and distant. He's broody and rightfully so. But Maren doesn't back down and she doesnt let it deter her. She sees him and she loves him, scars and all. Maren is willing to fight for him. They are able to reconnect, and get a second chance at a relationship that neither one of them thought would ever happen. Ultimately it is that relationship that allows Garrett to open up and gives him the chance to heal. (Maren as well in a sense.) Not only does it push him to open up and heal but it gives him the fight he needs to want to live and not just hide away, especially after he learns of the son that they share, who was born while he was away. I loved their story and I'm so glad that they got their HEA in the end. Only complaint was that I wanted more. I def was not ready for it to end
Another amazing read by Katie Rae.
Recon pulled out all the emotions. My heart hurt for Garrett and the losses
He had experienced and everything that he had endured. He had essentially lost his fight and his will to fight until reconnecting with Maren. He's hiding out in his old family home just wanting to be left alone. In a strange twist of fate Maren is assigned to clean the home when the cleaning company she works for is hired for the job.
After a few weeks he let's his presence in the home be known. At first he is gruff and distant. He's broody and rightfully so. But Maren doesn't back down and she doesnt let it deter her. She sees him and she loves him, scars and all. Maren is willing to fight for him. They are able to reconnect, and get a second chance at a relationship that neither one of them thought would ever happen. Ultimately it is that relationship that allows Garrett to open up and gives him the chance to heal. (Maren as well in a sense.) Not only does it push him to open up and heal but it gives him the fight he needs to want to live and not just hide away, especially after he learns of the son that they share, who was born while he was away. I loved their story and I'm so glad that they got their HEA in the end. Only complaint was that I wanted more. I def was not ready for it to end
February 23, 2022
WOW this was an amazing read by Katie Rae. I loved Garrett and Maren. Their story is both emotional and beautiful that had my heart in my throat continuously throughout this book. Garrett has been through so much heartache, loss and devastation it is any wonder he closed himself from the world but Maren and her naturally kind heart and beautiful soul just burrowed her way into his soul and helped him overcome so much of his past and was able to look to his future. Beautiful words by Ms Rae that had me crying on many occasions as she brought to life the story of a marine who had suffered so much and was a shell of the man he used to be. I have recently discovered Ms Rae’s books and I have loved each one that I have read. I could not put this book down it was so very good. Be prepared for an emotional read that will have your heart breaking only to be put back together again.
I received an arc copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an arc copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 25, 2022
4.25 Stars!! ❤️
Having read Ms.Rae's work a couple of times before i always look so forward to picking up one of her books! The moment this one was announced it caught my eye right away and i couldn't wait to read it! I picked it up as soon as i could and was pulled in quickly. I really enjoyed this story!
Garrett and Maren's journey grabbed my attention and didn't let go! I wasn't sure what all to expect going into this story which i really liked! I loved getting to dig deeper with these characters. The realness not only shown by these two but throughout this story got to me. I felt so many emotions!
With Recon, Ms.Rae has created such a great read that will pull you in and make you feel so much! She brought the heart and the real with this story! It's my new favorite of hers. I can't wait to read what she comes up with next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
Having read Ms.Rae's work a couple of times before i always look so forward to picking up one of her books! The moment this one was announced it caught my eye right away and i couldn't wait to read it! I picked it up as soon as i could and was pulled in quickly. I really enjoyed this story!
Garrett and Maren's journey grabbed my attention and didn't let go! I wasn't sure what all to expect going into this story which i really liked! I loved getting to dig deeper with these characters. The realness not only shown by these two but throughout this story got to me. I felt so many emotions!
With Recon, Ms.Rae has created such a great read that will pull you in and make you feel so much! She brought the heart and the real with this story! It's my new favorite of hers. I can't wait to read what she comes up with next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
February 16, 2022
I so loved Maren and Garrett. I was sucked in from the start. These two were meant to be, they fought their feelings until they couldn’t anymore and neither of them wanted to hurt Cara, her sister and his best friend. So many things happened to them, Garrett left for his mission leaving everything and everyone behind, but had the memory of his time with Maren. Maren hides her feelings, staying with a total tool and keeping a huge secret. When she thought all was lost the tables were turned and she came face to face with a reality she never thought possible.
I freaking loved this book! It was everything, you felt heartbreak for Maren, you felt Garrett’s pain and the grief he suffers with everyday and feeling you don’t deserve happiness. Will Garret let Maren really see him and realize everything he’s ever wanted is right in front of him.
I freaking loved this book! It was everything, you felt heartbreak for Maren, you felt Garrett’s pain and the grief he suffers with everyday and feeling you don’t deserve happiness. Will Garret let Maren really see him and realize everything he’s ever wanted is right in front of him.
February 15, 2022
FIVE STARS ALL THE WAY!
If I could rate this higher than five stars, then I would.
As always when it comes to this author's work - this is not your usual military romance.
I shouldn't be surprised by how much I loved this book. Katie Rae has a way of making me *feel* every character so deeply, and with Garrett & Maren, I was not ready for the story to end. They had such an in-depth connection and one hell of a fight on their hands when it came to staying together and finding a way to live their lives in a way that gave it meaning. It was a true second chance novel, but not just in love. It was a second chance at life, at forgiveness, redemption and LIVING.
All the praise for this author, I utterly adored RECON and I cannot wait to see what else Katie Rae brings out!
If I could rate this higher than five stars, then I would.
As always when it comes to this author's work - this is not your usual military romance.
I shouldn't be surprised by how much I loved this book. Katie Rae has a way of making me *feel* every character so deeply, and with Garrett & Maren, I was not ready for the story to end. They had such an in-depth connection and one hell of a fight on their hands when it came to staying together and finding a way to live their lives in a way that gave it meaning. It was a true second chance novel, but not just in love. It was a second chance at life, at forgiveness, redemption and LIVING.
All the praise for this author, I utterly adored RECON and I cannot wait to see what else Katie Rae brings out!
March 9, 2022
Recon has carried me on emotional rollercoaster. Garrett is wanting to be left to his memories of his last failed recon. He sees no future for himself because of his past. Maren is single parent who living with her parents because of her ex who is crazy. After she take a job cleaning a house from her past. That when she discovers Garrett is alive but now, she must show him not only does he have a future, but it could be with her. They both have huge secrets, but they have love each other for long time, let us hope they can find their way back to each other. Their story has twists and turns but theirs ending is perfect for them. Another fantastic book by Katie Rae.
February 16, 2022
Ok friends, buckle up and prepare for an amazing emotional roller coaster that you will never want to end! This story gave me goosebumps, made me shed some tears, I even gasped in surprise a time or two. Not to mention the laughs and the face fanning moments…all. the. feels y’all!! Literally zero adulting went on in my house today, this book earned the title of unputdownable. Even with that amazing ending I’m still going to be stuck in a one massive book hangover for some time. Definitely a must read!!
February 25, 2022
Wow, just wow!!! RECON is epic! This is Katie Rae’s best book yet. Well, Ian Thomas, you had a nice 2.5 month run as my #1 military book boyfriend. But you have been bumped for Garrett Pierson! Katie Rae has once again outdone herself! THIS BOOK! Ugh, I wish I could read it again for the first time. RECON is beautifully and thoughtfully written. It is heart-wrenching, sweet, steamy and simply put…outstanding!
“I don't know what you were dreaming about or what you've been through. But I know you needed me to wake you up out of the past.”
Maren is a strong, self-aware, caring bada$$. Though her dreams were derailed, she adjusted and faced her challenges head on and built a new life for herself. Garret is the ultimate tortured grump. Haunted by his experiences overseas and angry at his circumstances, he tries to hide away in his loneliness. He is determined to keep the world at a distance. He is a hero and a survivor, she is a survivor and a fighter. Their chemistry is palpable and their demons are fierce. Can they work through their issues, embrace their pasts and build the future they truly deserve?
"I am not what has happened; I am what I have overcome."
RECON has an intensely gripping first chapter that hauls you in within minutes. This book takes you on an emotional rollercoaster. RECON is a thrilling page-turner; I could not put it down! If you are looking for a second-chance, military romantic suspense, add this to your TBR now!
“I don't know what you were dreaming about or what you've been through. But I know you needed me to wake you up out of the past.”
Maren is a strong, self-aware, caring bada$$. Though her dreams were derailed, she adjusted and faced her challenges head on and built a new life for herself. Garret is the ultimate tortured grump. Haunted by his experiences overseas and angry at his circumstances, he tries to hide away in his loneliness. He is determined to keep the world at a distance. He is a hero and a survivor, she is a survivor and a fighter. Their chemistry is palpable and their demons are fierce. Can they work through their issues, embrace their pasts and build the future they truly deserve?
"I am not what has happened; I am what I have overcome."
RECON has an intensely gripping first chapter that hauls you in within minutes. This book takes you on an emotional rollercoaster. RECON is a thrilling page-turner; I could not put it down! If you are looking for a second-chance, military romantic suspense, add this to your TBR now!
February 24, 2022
A sensitively wrote beautiful story but be warned it will play with EVERY emotion.
The characters are strong willed, unique and push your buttons for sure. The plot had some twists which were not always expecting...yet the story keeps you gripped...
Plus the book makes you really reflect on your life and what's important to you...who and what would you miss? What would you do if? A sign of a great author...why not give this military romance with a twist a chance
The characters are strong willed, unique and push your buttons for sure. The plot had some twists which were not always expecting...yet the story keeps you gripped...
Plus the book makes you really reflect on your life and what's important to you...who and what would you miss? What would you do if? A sign of a great author...why not give this military romance with a twist a chance
February 27, 2022
Holy crap this book was so good! I’m a military spouse so this hit a tad closer to home, but to see an author so accurately depict the PTSD that so many come home with after mission overseas was amazing. And the huge twist halfway through? Don’t worry, I won’t tell you…but I was so immersed in the story that I did NOT see it coming at all! I just loved this book and I will definitely read it again.
January 17, 2023
My first book by Katie Rae, came recommended. I did adore this story about Garrett and Maren. Story could have had a bit more "meat" to it. At points I didn't thing the PTSD that Garrett was suffering was realistic. I felt like the author perhaps intended that we do a lot more imagination with the read versus her actually writing it down. But you know, it basically was a great military romance and I would definitely read another military book by this author.
March 18, 2022
I barely have words!
I wasn’t prepared to to be so drawn in. When a story and the characters are so well written that you feel all of it to your core, that’s more than amazing. You will feel every emotion possible and shed plenty of tears and still wanna go back for more. It’s rare, but Garrett gave me more feels than I have words for. Read. It. Now.
I wasn’t prepared to to be so drawn in. When a story and the characters are so well written that you feel all of it to your core, that’s more than amazing. You will feel every emotion possible and shed plenty of tears and still wanna go back for more. It’s rare, but Garrett gave me more feels than I have words for. Read. It. Now.
February 25, 2022
Destined
This book definitely gets you with the feels (and then some!) Maren and Garrett - two broken souls who desperately need each other. Had watery eyes in some parts, as you could just feel their emotions. Another fantastic book!
This book definitely gets you with the feels (and then some!) Maren and Garrett - two broken souls who desperately need each other. Had watery eyes in some parts, as you could just feel their emotions. Another fantastic book!
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