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Choosing Her
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN LOVE IS THE HARDEST CHOICE?
Being shot multiple times while saving the life of one of her men has cost Marine Captain, Charlie Winters, the career and lifestyle that she loved. Following that, losing her temper in a bar robbed her of her freedom. When a well-meaning judge sentences her to spend three weeks at a civilian Healing Centre in Canada, Charlie’s backup plan is simple: don’t think, don’t engage, just stay drunk.
Therapist Renée Clarke is no stranger to personal tragedy, and a broken Marine with an attitude problem is a welcome challenge to keep her focused. As days go by, she discovers that Captain Winters is not as damaged as she expected. Meanwhile, Charlie realises that speaking to her coach is a lot more pleasant than she thought.
Life is rarely straightforward though, and always a high-stakes game.
When loving Renée could mean paying the ultimate price…
Will Charlie be strong enough to choose her?
Being shot multiple times while saving the life of one of her men has cost Marine Captain, Charlie Winters, the career and lifestyle that she loved. Following that, losing her temper in a bar robbed her of her freedom. When a well-meaning judge sentences her to spend three weeks at a civilian Healing Centre in Canada, Charlie’s backup plan is simple: don’t think, don’t engage, just stay drunk.
Therapist Renée Clarke is no stranger to personal tragedy, and a broken Marine with an attitude problem is a welcome challenge to keep her focused. As days go by, she discovers that Captain Winters is not as damaged as she expected. Meanwhile, Charlie realises that speaking to her coach is a lot more pleasant than she thought.
Life is rarely straightforward though, and always a high-stakes game.
When loving Renée could mean paying the ultimate price…
Will Charlie be strong enough to choose her?
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2022
300 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Natalie Debrabandere
41 books239 followersMy novels are about strong, grounded women who live, love, and thrive in adventurous worlds.
As Natalie Debrabandere, I write lesbian fiction with a romantic twist.
As N.D. Shar, I dive into edgy sci-fi with kick-ass female leads and non-stop action.
If this is your first experience with my books, I hope you’ll find as much pleasure in reading them as I do in writing them.
The best way to support me? Read, review, and share—share—share!
My books are available worldwide in Kindle and paperback formats on your local Amazon site.
You can contact me through my website: nataliedebrabandere.com
As Natalie Debrabandere, I write lesbian fiction with a romantic twist.
As N.D. Shar, I dive into edgy sci-fi with kick-ass female leads and non-stop action.
If this is your first experience with my books, I hope you’ll find as much pleasure in reading them as I do in writing them.
The best way to support me? Read, review, and share—share—share!
My books are available worldwide in Kindle and paperback formats on your local Amazon site.
You can contact me through my website: nataliedebrabandere.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 7, 2022
Dnf 52% in. Too much Tony Robbins-esque psychobabble bullshit like "Everything happens for a reason" and "you either stay the victim, or you become wise"... The final nail for me was 'depression isn't a disease it's a behaviour'. I won't bother giving that dialogue the rant it deserves, and instead stick to reviewing this book and storyline.
Ultimately this is a very lame half arsed story with all too easy answers to VERY complicated issues, that just seem ham-fisted, insulting; and set on simplifying complexity in a way that makes it feel belittling and juvenile. There's no heart here. No depth.
Where's the maturity and seriousness these subjects deserve? Either step up with the subject matter, do your research and put in the work - or stick with fluff.. don't insult your audience or their emotional intelligence. I just personally became irritated and downright offended as I kept reading how it all was being handled and treated.
A romance between a therapist who has been in the game so long, (She's 47) would know better than to step over the line with a PTS patient with physical ailments 17 years her JUNIOR. The fact that she constantly says internally that the hot Captain patient is 'gorgeously' vulnerable, is also a major red flag, that I cannot swallow or accept in good faith, in any way.
Because of this, the romance is completely illogical, and goes against everything real therapy is supposed to be about. Yet I felt nothing truly sparking between the women, except taboo bullshit underlying. Talk about forced.
I'll leave it there, because this really did leave a foul taste in my mouth, and I freely admit I might be getting personally triggered by the subject matter. Kindle Unlimited.
Ultimately this is a very lame half arsed story with all too easy answers to VERY complicated issues, that just seem ham-fisted, insulting; and set on simplifying complexity in a way that makes it feel belittling and juvenile. There's no heart here. No depth.
Where's the maturity and seriousness these subjects deserve? Either step up with the subject matter, do your research and put in the work - or stick with fluff.. don't insult your audience or their emotional intelligence. I just personally became irritated and downright offended as I kept reading how it all was being handled and treated.
A romance between a therapist who has been in the game so long, (She's 47) would know better than to step over the line with a PTS patient with physical ailments 17 years her JUNIOR. The fact that she constantly says internally that the hot Captain patient is 'gorgeously' vulnerable, is also a major red flag, that I cannot swallow or accept in good faith, in any way.
Because of this, the romance is completely illogical, and goes against everything real therapy is supposed to be about. Yet I felt nothing truly sparking between the women, except taboo bullshit underlying. Talk about forced.
I'll leave it there, because this really did leave a foul taste in my mouth, and I freely admit I might be getting personally triggered by the subject matter. Kindle Unlimited.
April 25, 2023
4 ⭐️
Enjoyable read. I didn‘t know it was an age-gap romance (17 years) as it isn‘t mentioned in the description.
Enjoyable read. I didn‘t know it was an age-gap romance (17 years) as it isn‘t mentioned in the description.
November 19, 2022
Another book by Natalie Debrandere that had me spellbound. All three books I read so far have at least one seriously traumatised heroine. In this case there are two, Charlie Winters, an ex Captain of the Marines and her therapist, Renée Clarke, who just had the horrible duty to switch off her twin sisters life support after six months of her being in a coma after a rally racing accident.
Renée has her new boss and old best friend to help with her own grief and her new job as a distraction, but then there is Charlie, who was sent into therapy after a fight in a bar by a judge and his former employer. She tries to resist all and everything the Phoenix centre offers, but Renée is very experienced and really good at her job and gets Charlie to slowly open up.
Renée is holding back her strong attraction because of the ethics of her job and Charlie holds back because she fears her feelings more than deah or the devil. The way both slowly get closer and fall for each other is wonderfully written and I love the fact, that here finally are two mature independent women, who strive for seeing eye to eye on all levels as equal partners.
There are some very interesting and well built side characters and pretty much everyone progresses personally during the story. I can whole heartedly recommend this book warmly.
Renée has her new boss and old best friend to help with her own grief and her new job as a distraction, but then there is Charlie, who was sent into therapy after a fight in a bar by a judge and his former employer. She tries to resist all and everything the Phoenix centre offers, but Renée is very experienced and really good at her job and gets Charlie to slowly open up.
Renée is holding back her strong attraction because of the ethics of her job and Charlie holds back because she fears her feelings more than deah or the devil. The way both slowly get closer and fall for each other is wonderfully written and I love the fact, that here finally are two mature independent women, who strive for seeing eye to eye on all levels as equal partners.
There are some very interesting and well built side characters and pretty much everyone progresses personally during the story. I can whole heartedly recommend this book warmly.
January 4, 2025
A little close to the edge for me: therapist and her client. All a little too pat and it didn’t feel ‘safe.’ Next please.
August 3, 2022
Choosing Her
Natalie Debrabandere wrote a great story about healing. It has good chemistry. I have only read a couple of her books but will keep an eye out for future work.
Natalie Debrabandere wrote a great story about healing. It has good chemistry. I have only read a couple of her books but will keep an eye out for future work.
July 3, 2022
Excellent.
I loved Choosing Her. Yes. You sort of knew where the story was going from the beginning. But that didn’t detract from the book or the plot.
I loved Choosing Her. Yes. You sort of knew where the story was going from the beginning. But that didn’t detract from the book or the plot.
July 28, 2022
Excellent Story From A Master Storyteller!
I didn’t think any of Natalie’s books could top “Vagabond”, so glad I was wrong. “Choosing Her” was a classic Marine comes home hurt, lost and in trouble. But with a twist that added a sense of humility to the story. At times I found humor in Charlie’s attitude. Hostile and angry, she was sent to a retreat that helps with one’s perspective in life as punishment for getting in a bar brawl upon discharge from the marines. Her plan was to drink herself to oblivion until her time was up. But Charlie didn’t count on meeting Renee. As her counselor she was inviting trouble. Renee, Understanding the trauma Charlie has been through as she herself has gone through a rough patch. What develops are two souls who need each other but can they see through all their baggage to find their hearts? This was so well executed. I am fast becoming a super fan of Natalie Debrabandere.
I didn’t think any of Natalie’s books could top “Vagabond”, so glad I was wrong. “Choosing Her” was a classic Marine comes home hurt, lost and in trouble. But with a twist that added a sense of humility to the story. At times I found humor in Charlie’s attitude. Hostile and angry, she was sent to a retreat that helps with one’s perspective in life as punishment for getting in a bar brawl upon discharge from the marines. Her plan was to drink herself to oblivion until her time was up. But Charlie didn’t count on meeting Renee. As her counselor she was inviting trouble. Renee, Understanding the trauma Charlie has been through as she herself has gone through a rough patch. What develops are two souls who need each other but can they see through all their baggage to find their hearts? This was so well executed. I am fast becoming a super fan of Natalie Debrabandere.
January 10, 2025
Renee, a therapist, has just joined Phoenix Center and is put in charge of four new patients. Former Captain Charlie Winters is not there willingly, ordered to attend the program after being charged with assault. If she does not do the program, she risks losing her military pension. As Renee does her best to coax Charlie into participating, she finds herself intrigued by the stoic woman.
I did raise my eyebrows at a councilor claiming depression is a habit. Uhm, no, there an be neurological causes, illnesses, etc etc... that is very weird for a psychologist trained character to say.
Also: the military spends a LOT to train a soldier, so they will do their best to hold on to them. The heroine recovering enough to be a private military contractor seemed weird, bearing that in mind.
3 out if 5. Okay, didn't blow me away
I did raise my eyebrows at a councilor claiming depression is a habit. Uhm, no, there an be neurological causes, illnesses, etc etc... that is very weird for a psychologist trained character to say.
Also: the military spends a LOT to train a soldier, so they will do their best to hold on to them. The heroine recovering enough to be a private military contractor seemed weird, bearing that in mind.
3 out if 5. Okay, didn't blow me away
January 18, 2023
A dynamic story
of the kind you just can’t put down. A great premise, being a veteran myself, I fully understood Charlie’s issues and having spent a career supervising and coaching, I understood Ren’s work too. That it is a same sex relationship that develops has nothing to with just how good the story is. It does have the x loses x that I really don’t like but that was literally only a few pages, the rest of the story is just tremendously good and well written. The only critique I’d offer is that for some reason British authors use uh-uh, as uh-huh, perhaps that’s the way it is over the pond, but it really stands out as in America it means the opposite of how it is to be taken in context. I’d recommend this book to anyone, just wonderful writing.
of the kind you just can’t put down. A great premise, being a veteran myself, I fully understood Charlie’s issues and having spent a career supervising and coaching, I understood Ren’s work too. That it is a same sex relationship that develops has nothing to with just how good the story is. It does have the x loses x that I really don’t like but that was literally only a few pages, the rest of the story is just tremendously good and well written. The only critique I’d offer is that for some reason British authors use uh-uh, as uh-huh, perhaps that’s the way it is over the pond, but it really stands out as in America it means the opposite of how it is to be taken in context. I’d recommend this book to anyone, just wonderful writing.
April 7, 2023
Healing Journey
Captain Charlie Winter is a brilliant Marine and sacrifices everything to lead her team to victory and safety. Forced to retire after a fierce battle she gets into a fight in a bar. Forced to attend a so-called Healing Camp in Canada or lose her retirement she’s not happy but reports. Renee Clarke is a Coach at the camp and a brilliant therapist. This book’s characters and situations are an inspiration and journey of healing and transformation. A brilliantly written story.
Captain Charlie Winter is a brilliant Marine and sacrifices everything to lead her team to victory and safety. Forced to retire after a fierce battle she gets into a fight in a bar. Forced to attend a so-called Healing Camp in Canada or lose her retirement she’s not happy but reports. Renee Clarke is a Coach at the camp and a brilliant therapist. This book’s characters and situations are an inspiration and journey of healing and transformation. A brilliantly written story.
February 14, 2024
Fabulous
A wounded and decorated Marine Captain is forced to retire and it leaves her without purpose. She turns to drink and gets in a fight in a bar defending a woman from unwanted advances. The Captain is arrested and forced to attend a three week therapy session. This is a wonderful novel about life and love. I couldn’t stop reading until the most satisfying ending. Ms. Debrabandere has written another gem!
A wounded and decorated Marine Captain is forced to retire and it leaves her without purpose. She turns to drink and gets in a fight in a bar defending a woman from unwanted advances. The Captain is arrested and forced to attend a three week therapy session. This is a wonderful novel about life and love. I couldn’t stop reading until the most satisfying ending. Ms. Debrabandere has written another gem!
November 5, 2022
It was everything the author wanted! I could not put it down!
When I looked at the clock for the first time, it was 7:00am. I had truly read all night.
The characters, Ren and Charlie are dynamic, each in their own right, but together they sizzle.
The story is exciting and poignant. The honesty , brave.
This is an adult love story. No game playing. And, impossible to put down.
When I looked at the clock for the first time, it was 7:00am. I had truly read all night.
The characters, Ren and Charlie are dynamic, each in their own right, but together they sizzle.
The story is exciting and poignant. The honesty , brave.
This is an adult love story. No game playing. And, impossible to put down.
July 2, 2022
Her best yet
Once again the author hits the mark. I would say this is her finest book yet, great characters and story superbly written. I would actually give this an extra star simply because I couldn't put it down, a rare happening for me.
Once again the author hits the mark. I would say this is her finest book yet, great characters and story superbly written. I would actually give this an extra star simply because I couldn't put it down, a rare happening for me.
July 9, 2022
excellent story of stamina & trauma recovery
I enjoyed the interaction of the characters as well as the action portions of how trauma affects people differently, depending on the trauma & the personality.
I enjoyed the interaction of the characters as well as the action portions of how trauma affects people differently, depending on the trauma & the personality.
July 17, 2022
Really Enjoyed It
I was pleasantly surprised how the story rolled out and the characters developed. Everyone was very likable and I found myself smiling several times as the characters had wins in their growth. Great story Natalie!
I was pleasantly surprised how the story rolled out and the characters developed. Everyone was very likable and I found myself smiling several times as the characters had wins in their growth. Great story Natalie!
July 18, 2022
Great read
This was a great read. The pacing was good,the characters interesting. I had a laugh, I had a cry. I was on the edge of my seat for some of it. I even shouted at the book at one point trying to tell the characters what to do. Recommend.
This was a great read. The pacing was good,the characters interesting. I had a laugh, I had a cry. I was on the edge of my seat for some of it. I even shouted at the book at one point trying to tell the characters what to do. Recommend.
September 20, 2022
Amazing story
I had enjoyed this wonderful heartfelt adventure of Charlie an ex Marine she got in bar fight and had go to anger management then meet the life coach. Who changed her life.
I had enjoyed this wonderful heartfelt adventure of Charlie an ex Marine she got in bar fight and had go to anger management then meet the life coach. Who changed her life.
September 30, 2022
Choosing Her
Great read and awersome story from the beginning to the end.
Author Natalie Debbrabandetre did an excellent job writing this as it flows from the start - middle to the end. Another
Great read and awersome story from the beginning to the end.
Author Natalie Debbrabandetre did an excellent job writing this as it flows from the start - middle to the end. Another
October 22, 2022
PG
Honestly it’s a sweet romance novel. No debauchery, not even a hint of it. The writing style is good. I did skirt or blur some ethical lines for me but the author explained that away…. Not entirely to my satisfaction.
Honestly it’s a sweet romance novel. No debauchery, not even a hint of it. The writing style is good. I did skirt or blur some ethical lines for me but the author explained that away…. Not entirely to my satisfaction.
July 3, 2022
Riveting as Usual
Natalie Debrabandere never disappoints, no matter the topic and no matter the MCs. The very best always. Can’t wait til the next one…
Natalie Debrabandere never disappoints, no matter the topic and no matter the MCs. The very best always. Can’t wait til the next one…
July 6, 2022
A great read!
I couldn’t stop reading this book. Well written strong female characters and a heartwarming storyline. This author never disappoints! Recommend this book.
I couldn’t stop reading this book. Well written strong female characters and a heartwarming storyline. This author never disappoints! Recommend this book.
July 11, 2022
WOW
As a vet with PTSD this hit close to home. Experienced laughter, tears & a profound release of emotion. Thank you!
As a vet with PTSD this hit close to home. Experienced laughter, tears & a profound release of emotion. Thank you!
August 4, 2022
Exceptional
This book was inspiring in the way it spoke to me the reader it showed me how to cope with things in life. Thank you
This book was inspiring in the way it spoke to me the reader it showed me how to cope with things in life. Thank you
January 11, 2023
This book showed you the benefits for therapy. The journeys each had was good to read.
Loved the book, the style of writing was also very easy to follow.
Loved the book, the style of writing was also very easy to follow.
February 25, 2023
Had me hooked line and sunk from beginning to end it was beautifully written and emotional throughout what can I say it’s a most read all characters we’re brilliant. Thank you.
June 9, 2023
complex & heart warming
Plenty of intense situations and an understanding of the impact of war but love can be found - outstanding read
Plenty of intense situations and an understanding of the impact of war but love can be found - outstanding read
June 24, 2023
it was very emotional, but it goes from coach/client to i love you forever omg im yours bb in like a week. its kinda wild and def too fast for me.
July 22, 2023
Kindle Unlimited
August 1, 2023
A very good read
There were a few hiccups along the way. But mostly, a very good story with a good assortment of characters. Definitely worth a read .
There were a few hiccups along the way. But mostly, a very good story with a good assortment of characters. Definitely worth a read .
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews