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Team Darkwater #1
Avenging Amy
ROMANCE LIKE YOU'VE NEVER SEEN . . . ANNABELLE WINTERS STYLE!
When a brash Saudi prince takes liberties with State Department translator Amy Hadad, she’s told to forget it and move on, to be a patriot and swallow her personal pride for the sake of the bigger picture.
Saudi Prince Rafiq is helping the US in a delicate hostage situation with the rogue extremist nation of Jawal, and so Amy is stuck with an impossible choice: If she accuses Prince Rafiq, he might not help the US, and hostages might die.
It’s not just an impossible choice, it’s no choice at all.
She has to stand down, keep her mouth shut, smile for the camera, and let the show go on.
Navy SEAL Jake Axelrod, busted down to security detail for a loudmouthed Senator after running his own mouth off in public, is used to choosing his country over himself.
It’s what he was born to do, trained to do, loves to do.
But when he senses how Amy reacts to Prince Rafiq at a State Department Gala in Dubai, something awakens in him, something comes alive, a different sense of moral duty that burns strong in his heart, like it comes from someplace deep and ancient, from a time when a man's highest duty was to protect his woman.
Soon Axe faces his own impossible choice, and he makes it with his heart instead of his head.
An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind, they say.
Well, even a blind man knows when the sun is shining, and that’s what it feels like around Amy.
So what the hell.
Who needs eyes when your future's so clear.
Hooyah.
Toe-curling suspense, button-popping steam, mind-breaking action. And of course over-the-top drama and madness, Annabelle Winters style. This is a full length standalone.
When a brash Saudi prince takes liberties with State Department translator Amy Hadad, she’s told to forget it and move on, to be a patriot and swallow her personal pride for the sake of the bigger picture.
Saudi Prince Rafiq is helping the US in a delicate hostage situation with the rogue extremist nation of Jawal, and so Amy is stuck with an impossible choice: If she accuses Prince Rafiq, he might not help the US, and hostages might die.
It’s not just an impossible choice, it’s no choice at all.
She has to stand down, keep her mouth shut, smile for the camera, and let the show go on.
Navy SEAL Jake Axelrod, busted down to security detail for a loudmouthed Senator after running his own mouth off in public, is used to choosing his country over himself.
It’s what he was born to do, trained to do, loves to do.
But when he senses how Amy reacts to Prince Rafiq at a State Department Gala in Dubai, something awakens in him, something comes alive, a different sense of moral duty that burns strong in his heart, like it comes from someplace deep and ancient, from a time when a man's highest duty was to protect his woman.
Soon Axe faces his own impossible choice, and he makes it with his heart instead of his head.
An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind, they say.
Well, even a blind man knows when the sun is shining, and that’s what it feels like around Amy.
So what the hell.
Who needs eyes when your future's so clear.
Hooyah.
Toe-curling suspense, button-popping steam, mind-breaking action. And of course over-the-top drama and madness, Annabelle Winters style. This is a full length standalone.
436 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2022
669 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Annabelle Winters
497 books272 followersGet three Annabelle Winters stories free when you join her private list at WNTRS.CO/JOIN
Suspense and steam.
Drama and madness.
Fate and destiny.
This is romance like you've never seen. Annabelle Winters style.
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mail@annabellewinters.com
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Suspense and steam.
Drama and madness.
Fate and destiny.
This is romance like you've never seen. Annabelle Winters style.
wntrs.co/join
mail@annabellewinters.com
wntrs.co/facebook
wntrs.co/instagram
wntrs.co/goodreads
wntrs.co/bookbub
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
July 3, 2021
This isn't a horrible book, but it's a bit cheesy and the pacing is definitely off. There are a lot of long passages of internal introspection from the characters that really drag and the dialogue tends towards long-winded and pretty boring. I ended up skip-reading a lot of it. The H came across as having some major anger issues, definitely not someone you'd want to know irl, and the character development was pretty poor.
Quite a few typos/proofreading errors as well, which always jar.
And please just *stop* with the freaking dolphins!!
Quite a few typos/proofreading errors as well, which always jar.
And please just *stop* with the freaking dolphins!!
June 1, 2022
Overkill-
This book was the first of this series about the start-up of a covert Black Ops Team, which arose due to the frustrations regarding the gridlocked politics of the day. The author made some valid points, but their was far too much backstory detail and political opinion to make this an enjoyable read. I read to escape the insanity, hate, division, and propaganda found in today’s politics. I DNF’d at 46%, and still no real romance had occurred between the main characters. The overkill killed it for me.
This book was the first of this series about the start-up of a covert Black Ops Team, which arose due to the frustrations regarding the gridlocked politics of the day. The author made some valid points, but their was far too much backstory detail and political opinion to make this an enjoyable read. I read to escape the insanity, hate, division, and propaganda found in today’s politics. I DNF’d at 46%, and still no real romance had occurred between the main characters. The overkill killed it for me.
July 27, 2021
Jealousy, Revenge, Action . . .
Amy Hadad is a translator for the State Department. Saudi Prince Rafiq, for whom she is translating, is inappropriate with her but she is advised to let it go and don’t complain. However, Navy Seal Jake Axelrod (“Ax”) was immediately attracted to Amy and considers it his moral duty to defend her by whatever means are necessary. Both are the main characters are honorable people who want to defend the country and make the world better. How far will Ax go to protect her? Will there be repercussions? And what else is going on that is putting them in deep danger?
Amy Hadad is a translator for the State Department. Saudi Prince Rafiq, for whom she is translating, is inappropriate with her but she is advised to let it go and don’t complain. However, Navy Seal Jake Axelrod (“Ax”) was immediately attracted to Amy and considers it his moral duty to defend her by whatever means are necessary. Both are the main characters are honorable people who want to defend the country and make the world better. How far will Ax go to protect her? Will there be repercussions? And what else is going on that is putting them in deep danger?
July 23, 2021
Great start to a new series. Amy is a State Department translator and when a Saudi prince takes liberties, he shouldn’t have she is told to forget about it and move on. Prince Rafiq is helping with a hostage situation and Amy has to deal with him or people could die. Ax is a Navy Seal and when he sees Amy sparks fly. What will happen when he discovers what happened to Amy? Fast-paced read with loads of drama, suspense and steam. Great characters with lots of depth and an entertaining story. I liked it.
July 31, 2021
I have read many of the insta-love short stories that Annabelle Winters is known for. Avenging Amy is an insta-love story, so no disappointment there, but it is also a full-length novel. What Annabelle Winter can do in this book is give us a broader and deeper glimpse into what that instant love moment means. It feels like finding your one and only, and you know that you are feeling love, but also know that it is just too soon, so it makes no sense at all. The other thing that the author does well in this book is to build a world and develop characters that are real and modern. The back story is relevant and something that could happen in this day and time. As always, her characters are like the people you know or know of, which makes them relatable and believable.
It is awesome that Amy is intelligent and has the curves that women have and should never feel shame because we have those curves. She is educated, honest, moral, a little geeky, and the kind of woman I have in my friendship circle. Ax is a man's man. Yes, they still exist. He, too, has a moral code, which keeps everything in his world together. Amy and Ax are most definitely destined to be together. He is a SEAL through and through and has a work ethic that embraces hard work.
With tons of action, drama, hot steamy romance, suspense, a little espionage, and the sad loss of a friend, Avenging Amy is a page-turner and an easy read. I absolutely loved it and am glad to see John Benson return. I can hardly wait to read the next book in this evolving series, Breaking Breanna!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is awesome that Amy is intelligent and has the curves that women have and should never feel shame because we have those curves. She is educated, honest, moral, a little geeky, and the kind of woman I have in my friendship circle. Ax is a man's man. Yes, they still exist. He, too, has a moral code, which keeps everything in his world together. Amy and Ax are most definitely destined to be together. He is a SEAL through and through and has a work ethic that embraces hard work.
With tons of action, drama, hot steamy romance, suspense, a little espionage, and the sad loss of a friend, Avenging Amy is a page-turner and an easy read. I absolutely loved it and am glad to see John Benson return. I can hardly wait to read the next book in this evolving series, Breaking Breanna!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 17, 2021
This is the first book I have read from this author and I am definitely on board for reading more from her. This story was well thought out, had a lot of very useful background information and had me pulled in from the first chapter. By the time I was done with this story, I had no unanswered questions. This is the story of Axelrod (Ax) and Amy. Ax is a Navy SEAL who seems to be honest, caring, honorable, dangerous and a true man. Amy is a translator who works for the State Department. She is strong, smart, beautiful and is very caring and wants to make the world a better place. Ax and Amy have a spark from the moment they meet. The chemistry between them is nothing but HOT!
This book has just about everything in it – action, adventure, deception, betrayal, loyalty, suspense, honor, passion, and a battle like no other. I am looking forward to the next book in this series – I hope to get to know more about Ax’s SEAL buddies and John Benson. This is definitely a very patriotic story and makes you proud to see that there are still good guys out there – regardless of what the media portrays. Great story and great characters. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book has just about everything in it – action, adventure, deception, betrayal, loyalty, suspense, honor, passion, and a battle like no other. I am looking forward to the next book in this series – I hope to get to know more about Ax’s SEAL buddies and John Benson. This is definitely a very patriotic story and makes you proud to see that there are still good guys out there – regardless of what the media portrays. Great story and great characters. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 28, 2021
A wonderful start to this series in explaining how Darkwater gets it's start. The brain child of John Benson and Sally Norton as pillow talk, but when she was killed during her last mission, John decided it was time to retire from the CIA and enact their dream. John always believed if you put the right players together in a room everything would work out fine, but that last mission went terribly wrong. Prince Rafiq had waited years to extract his revenge on Amy Hadad and the State Department Gala was to be the time, but he was also supposed to meet with Senator Dean Morgan on a deal, they were making. Rafiq forgot one thing never get between a man and his woman especially a southern man. Rafiq was trying to get the Senator to make a deal with known terrorist (himself), when he made a mistake attacking Amy. They talked her into not saying anything, but she had met navy SEAL Jake Axelrod (Ax) before the gala and they had an instant connection. He only had to take one look at her to know what happened. He and Rafiq did some posturing resulting in Rafiq's bodyguards pulling their guns with Ax getting shot in the shoulder, the killed the Senator, one guard went over a banister to his death, and the other guard got a dislocated shoulder. With the Senator dead Rafiq was on the run and trying to figure out who might know about his plan with the Senator. He decided only Sally and Amy knew, so he made a call to have them eliminated. They got to Sally before Ax could get away from the other scene, but as soon as he discovered Sal!y's death then he took Amy not letting her out of his sight. She was his woman. I found this book rather long, and I thought there was things the author kept going over and over. It could have used a good editor, in some cases less is more. There was almost more war than romance and when they had sex I questioned the timing for their safety, since they were on the run for at least Amy's life. There was lots action but it did not move fast as you could read for a hour and still be in the same scene.
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.
July 4, 2021
4 Stars
I received a free copy of the lengthy steamy military based novel Avenging Amy: Darkwater SEALs book 1 by Annabelle Winters and this review was given freely.
Starting in the Hindu Kush Mountains of Afghanistan the USA/ Middle Eastern centered Book One is a good introduction to the origin of Darkwater as well as its principle members. It is suspenseful and action packed containing a well-crafted and intricate plot of revenge and tragedy which combines touches of raw language, some violence, a love/lust triangle and both the twisted humor and over the top story telling that Annabelle Winters is known for while at the same time expressing the emotions, strong morals and determination behind each character.
Founder John Benson:
Grief stricken after the murder of his secret wife Sally Norton in an operation where he used her as one of the pawns and, tired of governmental red tape and the new image restrictions, Chief of the CIA’s Near-and-Middle East Division John Benson decides to retire and form his own dream team of rogue former military, elite justice warriors working under the name of Darkwater.
First Recruit Jake “Ax” Axelrod:
Fourth generation Georgian military member and Navy SEAL Team Thirteen’s Team Leader. He is not afraid to stretch the rules to maintain his strong moral code. Ax finds himself running for his life and protecting California born Official State Department Translator Amy Hadad when Prince Rafiq of Saudi Arabia’s Royal House of Saud’s, who has been secretly backing the newly formed militant coastal Jawaal nation, and CIA Chief John Benson’s intertwining plots result in tragedy in Dubai.
18+ recommended for heavy vivid violence and vivid intimate scenes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of the lengthy steamy military based novel Avenging Amy: Darkwater SEALs book 1 by Annabelle Winters and this review was given freely.
Starting in the Hindu Kush Mountains of Afghanistan the USA/ Middle Eastern centered Book One is a good introduction to the origin of Darkwater as well as its principle members. It is suspenseful and action packed containing a well-crafted and intricate plot of revenge and tragedy which combines touches of raw language, some violence, a love/lust triangle and both the twisted humor and over the top story telling that Annabelle Winters is known for while at the same time expressing the emotions, strong morals and determination behind each character.
Founder John Benson:
Grief stricken after the murder of his secret wife Sally Norton in an operation where he used her as one of the pawns and, tired of governmental red tape and the new image restrictions, Chief of the CIA’s Near-and-Middle East Division John Benson decides to retire and form his own dream team of rogue former military, elite justice warriors working under the name of Darkwater.
First Recruit Jake “Ax” Axelrod:
Fourth generation Georgian military member and Navy SEAL Team Thirteen’s Team Leader. He is not afraid to stretch the rules to maintain his strong moral code. Ax finds himself running for his life and protecting California born Official State Department Translator Amy Hadad when Prince Rafiq of Saudi Arabia’s Royal House of Saud’s, who has been secretly backing the newly formed militant coastal Jawaal nation, and CIA Chief John Benson’s intertwining plots result in tragedy in Dubai.
18+ recommended for heavy vivid violence and vivid intimate scenes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 26, 2021
Loved Amy & Ax. Loved the concept of the book. Took me longer to read due to distractions (ie: kids, husband, daily life :) ).
Took 1/2 a star off as I could have done without as much backstory. Or telling all their thoughts being told/explained. But, at the same time I enjoyed it. Just not sure I needed it all the time.
I haven’t read any of the Sheik stories but may due that now so I can learn more about CIA agent Benson. As I love when stories tie together or bring characters in as background characters.
Ax is very swoon worthy. He’s a stand up southern gentleman with a set of rules or laws he personally abides by. Even if they get him into trouble. He was drawn to Amy from 1st meeting. Had a strong connection. So, when he saw that something had happened. That she just didn’t look herself. He was ready to pounce on whoever had made her look that way. Regardless of the trouble he could get into or cause. I really liked this. More men should be ready to take action to protect or even avenge someone for a wrong done to a woman.
Amy had this same pull or connection with Ax as he had to her. She could read his mind. Sense his mood. Calm him with her touch. And loved him for him wanting to avenge her. But she knew there was too much at play to do anything.
The action, suspense, thrill, romance and steaminess made for a perfect combination. Will happily read more in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Took 1/2 a star off as I could have done without as much backstory. Or telling all their thoughts being told/explained. But, at the same time I enjoyed it. Just not sure I needed it all the time.
I haven’t read any of the Sheik stories but may due that now so I can learn more about CIA agent Benson. As I love when stories tie together or bring characters in as background characters.
Ax is very swoon worthy. He’s a stand up southern gentleman with a set of rules or laws he personally abides by. Even if they get him into trouble. He was drawn to Amy from 1st meeting. Had a strong connection. So, when he saw that something had happened. That she just didn’t look herself. He was ready to pounce on whoever had made her look that way. Regardless of the trouble he could get into or cause. I really liked this. More men should be ready to take action to protect or even avenge someone for a wrong done to a woman.
Amy had this same pull or connection with Ax as he had to her. She could read his mind. Sense his mood. Calm him with her touch. And loved him for him wanting to avenge her. But she knew there was too much at play to do anything.
The action, suspense, thrill, romance and steaminess made for a perfect combination. Will happily read more in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 18, 2021
Steamy, enlightening insta-love romance
Welcome back John Benson! Sorry your homecoming goes the way it does but “Darkwater” is born. And Ax…every woman wants a dedicated Navy SEAL like Ax to be dedicated to her. Amy’s no slouch either: strong, independent, intelligent and compassionate. Hooyah! Add in Prince Rafiq who is a very angry Middle-Eastern royal and you get a thrilling and arousing story.
Rafiq has waited for years for his revenge only to be thwarted by destiny and fate. The combination of Rafiq, Amy and Ax spawn tragic consequences. Both Ax and Rafiq are attracted to BBW Amy Hadad with her voluptuous figure and intelligence. There were page-turner moments when I was fearful, steamy moments when I couldn’t stop reading and tragic moments when I cried. This book made me so proud to be an unapologetic American. There’s a reason people attempt death-defying treks to get to our country.
Fate and destiny play heavily in this book as in most of Ms. Winter’s books. In this one a sequence of totally unexpected events leads to many deaths and a foiled plot. But it doesn’t stop there…
Loved this story and can’t wait to read about the other Darkwater members. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Booksprout and it comes highly recommended if you enjoy passionate and intriguing romance with an HEA. And that cover…Hooyah!
Welcome back John Benson! Sorry your homecoming goes the way it does but “Darkwater” is born. And Ax…every woman wants a dedicated Navy SEAL like Ax to be dedicated to her. Amy’s no slouch either: strong, independent, intelligent and compassionate. Hooyah! Add in Prince Rafiq who is a very angry Middle-Eastern royal and you get a thrilling and arousing story.
Rafiq has waited for years for his revenge only to be thwarted by destiny and fate. The combination of Rafiq, Amy and Ax spawn tragic consequences. Both Ax and Rafiq are attracted to BBW Amy Hadad with her voluptuous figure and intelligence. There were page-turner moments when I was fearful, steamy moments when I couldn’t stop reading and tragic moments when I cried. This book made me so proud to be an unapologetic American. There’s a reason people attempt death-defying treks to get to our country.
Fate and destiny play heavily in this book as in most of Ms. Winter’s books. In this one a sequence of totally unexpected events leads to many deaths and a foiled plot. But it doesn’t stop there…
Loved this story and can’t wait to read about the other Darkwater members. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Booksprout and it comes highly recommended if you enjoy passionate and intriguing romance with an HEA. And that cover…Hooyah!
July 27, 2021
This is the start of a new series Darkwater Seals and John Benson is back!! Amy is an educated, strong and independent woman who works for the State Department as a translator and is hired to attend an event in Saudi Arabia. Once she gets there she finds out Prince Rafiq has requested her as his own translator. Ax is a Navy Seal dedicated to his values whose team is set up on a mission in the Hindu Kush Mountains and then put on personal protection for a politician at the same event Amy is attending. Prince Rafiq is on a mission of revenge using all the characters for his own plans until he takes an unplanned step causing unseen consequences. Prince Rafiq and Ax have an attraction towards Amy that will cause them grief and happiness. Ax takes it upon himself to become Amy’s protector while on a journey to end the plans of evilness. This story has steamy moments with an undeniable attraction and then hurt and tragic situations. This is one enjoyable story about fate and how it shapes the decisions made along the way. It’s great to have John back and how he leads this new Darkwater team out for justice without and government oversight. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 29, 2021
This book was another surprise. The author has the Darkwater Seals with this new series. The first story is about Axelrod or also called Ax and Amy
Amy works for the State Department as a translator and Ax is a Navy Seal. As soon as they meet, the chemistry is so intense and hot that it sparkles.
There's a lot going on in this story, for example loyalty, deceit, betrayal, lots of action, and like the Navy Seal values honor, so much more. Also twists that you didn't see coming, but also a lot of passion and love.
The storyline and the build-up is beautifully done, the characters and the characters are also great. You dive into the life of a Navy Seal and what is important to them or what their code is for a Seal.
Looking forward to the next installment in this great new series, as well as how Ax's Seals friends are doing.
If you like this kind of genre of books about Navy Seals then I definitely recommend
you to read this book, but also to follow the series, because it is a great new series. And can't wait to see how it goes.
I have received an Advance Review copy of this book and will voluntarily leave a review
Amy works for the State Department as a translator and Ax is a Navy Seal. As soon as they meet, the chemistry is so intense and hot that it sparkles.
There's a lot going on in this story, for example loyalty, deceit, betrayal, lots of action, and like the Navy Seal values honor, so much more. Also twists that you didn't see coming, but also a lot of passion and love.
The storyline and the build-up is beautifully done, the characters and the characters are also great. You dive into the life of a Navy Seal and what is important to them or what their code is for a Seal.
Looking forward to the next installment in this great new series, as well as how Ax's Seals friends are doing.
If you like this kind of genre of books about Navy Seals then I definitely recommend
you to read this book, but also to follow the series, because it is a great new series. And can't wait to see how it goes.
I have received an Advance Review copy of this book and will voluntarily leave a review
August 6, 2021
Interesting start to a new series
Having read a lot of books by Annabelle Winters I was surprised when I picked this book up and found it was a long, long, and long novel, which is quite different from her normal books. But I still dove in and I do enjoy her stories. Avenging Amy is the first book in the Darkwater SEALs series and introduces the reader to the world of Darkwater, it's origins, the founders, the players and the politics. The story-line itself was engaging, suspenseful, intense at times, action packed and a lot more. The characters were interesting and complex but at times a bit long winded. Mixed in to all of it is also a romance/love with a lot of smexy passion. At times though I found it long and a bit confusing and as a result I did find myself tuning out while I was reading sometimes. But overall I liked this first book in the new series and look forward to reading more about Darkwater SEALs.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Having read a lot of books by Annabelle Winters I was surprised when I picked this book up and found it was a long, long, and long novel, which is quite different from her normal books. But I still dove in and I do enjoy her stories. Avenging Amy is the first book in the Darkwater SEALs series and introduces the reader to the world of Darkwater, it's origins, the founders, the players and the politics. The story-line itself was engaging, suspenseful, intense at times, action packed and a lot more. The characters were interesting and complex but at times a bit long winded. Mixed in to all of it is also a romance/love with a lot of smexy passion. At times though I found it long and a bit confusing and as a result I did find myself tuning out while I was reading sometimes. But overall I liked this first book in the new series and look forward to reading more about Darkwater SEALs.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
January 27, 2024
This has what you hope and expect a romantic suspense would have — action, danger, underhanded dealings, betrayal, loyalty, alpha protector, strong heroine, unexpected twists and turns, and suspense.
**
This was my first full-length novel from Annabelle Winters and won’t be my last! As someone who lives in both the political and military world, I appreciated the attention to detail and the background information presented. The scenario wasn’t so far-fetched that it didn’t seem realistic. And at a time when the state department was under a lot of scrutiny in regards to the way it handled some specific situations involving the military and foreign entities, I appreciated her take on that department and the political landscape in general.
**
This is a great book with a strong H and h who work well together and lean into each other. I give it 4.5 stars for some missed segues and some repetitive inner dialogue. But I thoroughly enjoyed the read and will be back for the rest!’
**
This was my first full-length novel from Annabelle Winters and won’t be my last! As someone who lives in both the political and military world, I appreciated the attention to detail and the background information presented. The scenario wasn’t so far-fetched that it didn’t seem realistic. And at a time when the state department was under a lot of scrutiny in regards to the way it handled some specific situations involving the military and foreign entities, I appreciated her take on that department and the political landscape in general.
**
This is a great book with a strong H and h who work well together and lean into each other. I give it 4.5 stars for some missed segues and some repetitive inner dialogue. But I thoroughly enjoyed the read and will be back for the rest!’
July 20, 2021
AMAZING!
As complex as the book was I appreciated the fact that Ms. Winters laid out the basic information that was necessary in the very beginning. The story revolves around Amy a translator for the State Department and Ax (Axelrod) a Navy Seal. They meet at a party, and the attraction is deep and immediate. Also immediate is their involvement in John Benson’s dream team that operates as Darkwater. The action is dark and dangerous. They are never really safe from immediate harm, and the entire team is courageous and cohesive. Terrific characters and story are brought together smoothly and cohesively in this “impossible to put down until the last word” book. If you like mystery, adventure, and a hot love story this book is for you!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As complex as the book was I appreciated the fact that Ms. Winters laid out the basic information that was necessary in the very beginning. The story revolves around Amy a translator for the State Department and Ax (Axelrod) a Navy Seal. They meet at a party, and the attraction is deep and immediate. Also immediate is their involvement in John Benson’s dream team that operates as Darkwater. The action is dark and dangerous. They are never really safe from immediate harm, and the entire team is courageous and cohesive. Terrific characters and story are brought together smoothly and cohesively in this “impossible to put down until the last word” book. If you like mystery, adventure, and a hot love story this book is for you!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 10, 2021
While working as a translator for the State Department the Saudi Prince is being inappropriate with Amy. She is told to put duty over herself and let it go. Jake (Axe) is a Navy Seal and is used to putting duty over himself but when he sees how uncomfortable Amy is he goes into protective mode. I love how great these two were for each other and when things take a dangerous turn Axe is determined to keep her safe. I have read many short, insta love stories by Annabelle Winters before so when I saw she has written a full length one I had to read it and I am so glad I did. We still got the great storyline, and characters and we even got the over-the-top drama too. Avenging Amy is book one and a great start to the Darkwater SEALS series. I look forward to reading the rest of this series. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
September 19, 2021
No matter what happens honor is the final straw. Loyalty a second. You do not disrespect her or abuse ones lady or discredit was on her. That is a man’s word. No more than a handshake or his signature. But most of all a man’s word is his honor. Miss Winters has done some fabulous work. This Navy SEALs man has gotten to the bottom line a male from Georgia, Who has found his name and believe that no matter what happens honor protecting his woman’s honor being honored to have that privilege be at Lanzi country or family. Romance very detail like about unexpected action if I you for what’s right. Excellent read. No cliff super spook stuff.
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.
August 14, 2025
I thought this book was pretty good. I enjoyed the spice and the fact that it was like love at first sight/ touch her and die tropes.
I honestly got lost a few times and didn’t know what was going on. I think this maybe had to do with the fact that there was a lot of politics/war background and the romance kind of wound its way in there in some places.
The marriage scene was cute but definitely came out of nowhere. I liked the resourcefulness of Ax when he made her a ring out of the grenade ring.
Overall I really did like Amy and Ax as characters and thought their relationship was cute. Ax is definitely the type of man that exemplifies “if he wanted to he would” but there were just times I got a little lost on the story which made it hard for me to follow along.
I honestly got lost a few times and didn’t know what was going on. I think this maybe had to do with the fact that there was a lot of politics/war background and the romance kind of wound its way in there in some places.
The marriage scene was cute but definitely came out of nowhere. I liked the resourcefulness of Ax when he made her a ring out of the grenade ring.
Overall I really did like Amy and Ax as characters and thought their relationship was cute. Ax is definitely the type of man that exemplifies “if he wanted to he would” but there were just times I got a little lost on the story which made it hard for me to follow along.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2021
Amy is a military translator in the Middle East and Ax is an ex-SEAL working under Darkwater as security. They meet at a party and it is instant steam, but someone else takes interest in her as well, and not the good kind. The characters have depth and great backstories, intense feelings and emotions, strength and determination. The storyline is full of intrigue, drama, surprises and twists that have you glued until the very end. I went through every emotion while reading this book as it pulls you into it. Loved the ending. Well done first in a new series.
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 22, 2023
Amy is a translator based on the middle east, Axel is a SEAL working the same event as Amy. They meet and have a connection which is only intensified when the Prince sexually assaults Amy and Axel goes into protector mode. Turns out the Prince is involved in terrorist activity and kidnappings, and now has his sights on Amy.
The story in itself looks good on paper but oh my Lord does this book drag on.... Every character you meet gets a massive description, a full background story, and paragraphs and paragraphs of what they are thinking. It's unnecessary and I actually skim read most of the book just I could get to the end!
The story in itself looks good on paper but oh my Lord does this book drag on.... Every character you meet gets a massive description, a full background story, and paragraphs and paragraphs of what they are thinking. It's unnecessary and I actually skim read most of the book just I could get to the end!
September 27, 2023
Ax and Amy, oh my. I think the book could use some editing, but overall the writing and story were ok. Here are my notes:
Overall, I am happy to give the next book in the series a go. ◡̈
Overall, I am happy to give the next book in the series a go. ◡̈
July 25, 2021
Standing Up For Love ❤️
I love all the stories I’ve read by this author, but this is by far my favorite! Amy and Ax set the pages on fire, and the intrigue, danger and action packed into the story are just as explosive. I could easily see this book being a movie on the big screen, and with such a strong woman as a main character, it would be extremely relevant in today’s world. You will be on the edge of your seat with this book, and as ready as I am for more of these intense stories!
I received an advanced reading copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love all the stories I’ve read by this author, but this is by far my favorite! Amy and Ax set the pages on fire, and the intrigue, danger and action packed into the story are just as explosive. I could easily see this book being a movie on the big screen, and with such a strong woman as a main character, it would be extremely relevant in today’s world. You will be on the edge of your seat with this book, and as ready as I am for more of these intense stories!
I received an advanced reading copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2022
This book was not for me. The romance part - if you could call mild flirting that - was so quick you almost missed it. The book seemed to go from “nice to meet you” to “mine” in a matter of pages. It just didn’t work for me. There were also lots of long passages of internal character introspection and it made the book drag in lots of places.
I did like the suspense aspect of the book. I thought that was a pretty intricate setup. But again, the character’s long introspective dialogue seemed to stop the book’s flow.
Not sure if I’ll continue with the series.
I did like the suspense aspect of the book. I thought that was a pretty intricate setup. But again, the character’s long introspective dialogue seemed to stop the book’s flow.
Not sure if I’ll continue with the series.
April 27, 2023
A great beginning!
This is the first book I have read from this author.
I have to say, I am slightly shocked by how unique this book is. It is an interesting take on former military members forming an off the books team. I was very surprised by the constant twists, the adventure, and the storyline.
I found myself wanting more character development, more of the build-up of the relationship, and a little less of the "primal instincts" A few times, I thought the Alpha male was very cheesy and out of character.
I will absolutely be reading the next book in the series!
This is the first book I have read from this author.
I have to say, I am slightly shocked by how unique this book is. It is an interesting take on former military members forming an off the books team. I was very surprised by the constant twists, the adventure, and the storyline.
I found myself wanting more character development, more of the build-up of the relationship, and a little less of the "primal instincts" A few times, I thought the Alpha male was very cheesy and out of character.
I will absolutely be reading the next book in the series!
June 29, 2023
I couldn’t finish the book unfortunately. I made it to “the” scene 60% in and that was the last straw. The internal dialogue was entirely too wordy, and most of it felt completely unnecessary like an over explanation. The storyline seem to be going well, but the characters didn’t have time to develop, and it went from “Hey, how are you doing” to claiming and mine in a matter of seconds. The spicy scene was the last straw when a few choice words were used that were more gross than sexy - like secretion 🤢
I almost never not finish a book, but I just had to walk away on this one unfortunately
I almost never not finish a book, but I just had to walk away on this one unfortunately
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2021
This is the start of a new series and the author takes the time to give us plenty of complex detail and background information - which although was a little heavy going it was, I suppose, necessary for the reader to be aware of.
The storyline is complex and dark, the characters are well-drawn, interesting and have depth. I'm sure many women will be able to relate to the situation Amy founds herself in.
I look forward to reading more of this series.
The storyline is complex and dark, the characters are well-drawn, interesting and have depth. I'm sure many women will be able to relate to the situation Amy founds herself in.
I look forward to reading more of this series.
August 3, 2021
a man and his woman
Avenging Amy is book one in the series Darkwater SEALs by author Annabelle Winters. Incredibly entertaining storyline you definitely won’t be able to put this one down. Like all Annabelle’s book this one is a hit!
It’s darkly delicious with a sense of honor that goes to the depth of the soul. Can’t wait for the next one.
Enjoy!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Avenging Amy is book one in the series Darkwater SEALs by author Annabelle Winters. Incredibly entertaining storyline you definitely won’t be able to put this one down. Like all Annabelle’s book this one is a hit!
It’s darkly delicious with a sense of honor that goes to the depth of the soul. Can’t wait for the next one.
Enjoy!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2021
I really loved this story it was full length with action and suspense but with a bit romance as well. Ax and Amy met at a function and sparks flew. The perpetual bachelor fell for the young translater. But he kind of wasn't the only one😉 A story full of twist, turns , action, deception and revelation but with a HEA at the end😍😍😍 I really hope the rest of Darkwater will get their One as well. 👍👍👍
March 27, 2024
Finally I finished the book.. this book is just a no. I dont think I’ve ever jumped over so much in a book. But I’m glad I finished it and that it is now over and done with. It’s so much politics that I wanna throw up, and I for one did not care one bit about the bad guys pov or his bodyguard speed read that shit fast just to be done with it.
At one point I was confused as to if I was reading a spicy scene or a description of an engine, a tornado and then wolfs howling 😂
At one point I was confused as to if I was reading a spicy scene or a description of an engine, a tornado and then wolfs howling 😂
July 12, 2021
This book was full of the unexpected- from hidden agendas, strong women and a battle of the alphas- this book kept me on the edge of my seat. I enjoyed how the author kept the action/suspense fast-paced with a nice splash of love under pressure. This is a great read- I look forward to more in this series.
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.
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