What do you think?
Rate this book
No Rules of Engagement
With wounded soldiers all around her, Major Logan Sharp doesn't have time to pamper some photographer from stateside. What spare energy she does have goes to worrying what she'll do when she ships home from Afghanistan. Home--for Logan, the word means nothing. But photographer Jillian Knight is not what she expects, and certainly not what she needs complicating her last tour. Leaving her partner and daughter at home, Jillian Knight is on assignment in Kandahar to record the heroic work of medical units in war zones. She knows it'll be rough, but Logan Sharp's dedication and competence is reassuring. Jillian finds herself looking forward to her encounters with the intriguing military doctor, understand that by-the-rules demeanor is a must for surviving in a land where life is cheap.
Under the pressures of danger and conflict, the intense feelings of comrades threaten to overwhelm their good sense, but they follow the rules. After a single heart-stopping kiss, they do the only thing they must--say goodbye. Keeping in touch is not part of the plan,but when their paths cross unexpectedly more than a year later,abiding by the rules is suddenly much harder than they ever expected.
Two unforgettable women try to figure out the rules for their own lives and the future in Tracey Richardson's romantic novel or wartime and coming home.
Under the pressures of danger and conflict, the intense feelings of comrades threaten to overwhelm their good sense, but they follow the rules. After a single heart-stopping kiss, they do the only thing they must--say goodbye. Keeping in touch is not part of the plan,but when their paths cross unexpectedly more than a year later,abiding by the rules is suddenly much harder than they ever expected.
Two unforgettable women try to figure out the rules for their own lives and the future in Tracey Richardson's romantic novel or wartime and coming home.
317 pages, Paperback
First published October 12, 2009
13 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
About the author
Tracey Richardson
34 books263 followersI'm the author of several lesbian romance novels published by Bella Books, including the Lambda Literary Award finalists "Last Salute" and "No Rules of Engagement". I'm a voracious reader, even more so now that I've retired from a 27-year career as a daily newspaper journalist.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 22, 2022
I’ve decided I can’t cope with an emotionally stunted character. When I constantly have to tell the character ‘just tell her what you are feeling’, makes me want to root for the other main to run the other way. Audiobook narrator can make or break a book, this one broke it with the stiff narration.
August 1, 2019
No Rules of Engagement by Tracey Richardson was my next fallback Friday read. Published in 2009 it has stood the test of time really well and still has a fresh feel about it. It’s a traditional slow burn romance between army doctor Logan Sharp and photojournalist Jillian Knight who comes to visit the base for three weeks to do a piece for National Geographic on Logan’s medical unit.
First part of the book is set in Afghanistan, second part is set 15 months later in Windsor, Canada. I found the first part more interesting because of the war setting. Although we are dealing with a doctor, don’t expect a lot of medical scenes and what there is is pretty low key. Same goes for Jillian.
Both women are attracted to each other but don’t act on it because Jillian is in a committed relationship and Logan had her heart broken once and has basically given up on romance. Situations change back home in part two, but Logan is still the one with the most hang-ups. Like I said, slow burn. An enjoyable read for the romance fans.
f/f when they finally get to it, it’s explicit.
Themes: Afghanistan, Kandahar Air Force Base (KAF), Detroit USA/Windsor Canada, only work no play.
3.7 Stars
First part of the book is set in Afghanistan, second part is set 15 months later in Windsor, Canada. I found the first part more interesting because of the war setting. Although we are dealing with a doctor, don’t expect a lot of medical scenes and what there is is pretty low key. Same goes for Jillian.
Both women are attracted to each other but don’t act on it because Jillian is in a committed relationship and Logan had her heart broken once and has basically given up on romance. Situations change back home in part two, but Logan is still the one with the most hang-ups. Like I said, slow burn. An enjoyable read for the romance fans.
f/f when they finally get to it, it’s explicit.
Themes: Afghanistan, Kandahar Air Force Base (KAF), Detroit USA/Windsor Canada, only work no play.
3.7 Stars
April 25, 2016
This is just a good old-fashioned romance. I really enjoyed reading it. I loved that the romance was slow building. The two main characters, had so much chemistry that their love, for one another, was very believable. This is my first book by Richardson, and if this is the norm for how she writes, I will definitely be reading more.
I would easily recommend this for any romance fans.
I would easily recommend this for any romance fans.
July 20, 2011
I don’t mind romance in a novel but I don’t like romance novels. Unless the novel is Tracey Richardson’s “No Rules of Engagement”.
In a military hospital at Kandahar Air Force Base, we are introduced to the eponymous Major Logan Sharp, a keen, confident doctor, unflappable in the most urgent of situations. Until photojournalist Jillian Knight arrives at KAF on a two-week assignment. The attraction is immediate but untenable; Logan is not willing to breach the walls necessary for her to effectively do her work just for a temporary fling with a civilian, and for reasons of her own, Jillian does not force the attraction. Thus begins a tantalizing, achingly protracted love affair.
Richardson’s characters capture the love/hate paradox often found among war professionals, both at war and long after coming home. She writes of the current conflict in the Middle East without polemics, graciously allowing readers their own opinions. But above all, “No Rules of Engagement”is a white-hot romance, worthy of a place alongside the searing Afghan sun.
In a military hospital at Kandahar Air Force Base, we are introduced to the eponymous Major Logan Sharp, a keen, confident doctor, unflappable in the most urgent of situations. Until photojournalist Jillian Knight arrives at KAF on a two-week assignment. The attraction is immediate but untenable; Logan is not willing to breach the walls necessary for her to effectively do her work just for a temporary fling with a civilian, and for reasons of her own, Jillian does not force the attraction. Thus begins a tantalizing, achingly protracted love affair.
Richardson’s characters capture the love/hate paradox often found among war professionals, both at war and long after coming home. She writes of the current conflict in the Middle East without polemics, graciously allowing readers their own opinions. But above all, “No Rules of Engagement”is a white-hot romance, worthy of a place alongside the searing Afghan sun.
December 23, 2019
This was a really well-rounded read with perfect proportions of everything I like in a novel. A little medicine, a little Canada, some sports, some shooting/military action and a happy ending. Adding it to my favourites list.
February 19, 2017
I enjoyed this book so much. I don't know why I'm drawn to these military type books but they are certainly some of my favorites. A zillion times better than other book I read by Richardson.
February 13, 2018
I am going to be very fast and especially very clear: the books of Richardson I wouldn’t bother to make a review of each of her books. You can go there with your eyes closed, everything is good, her writing, her stories , her characters, everything. Go ahead, read Tracey Richardson without hesitation !!
March 24, 2020
Decent, realistic enough but not detailed enough to cover the complexity of the issues it raises.
September 28, 2023
A Unique Take on Romance Amidst Conflict
3.5 out of 5 stars
No Rules of Engagement by Tracey Richardson is a novel that delves into the complexities of romance amidst the backdrop of war and coming home. While I’ve been an ardent fan of Richardson’s works, I must admit that this book presented a different challenge for me, which made it a bit harder to fully immerse myself in the story. I can’t tell if it was the characters, the story, or the difficulties/issues they faced. I sat on this review for a bit because of it. I don’t want my specific thoughts to ruin someone else’s enjoyment of this story.
One of the standout features of this novel is its setting – the military. It was a refreshing departure from the usual tropes I often find in the genre. Major Logan Sharp, a dedicated military doctor, and photographer Jillian Knight, on assignment to document the heroic work of medical units in war zones, form an unlikely connection amidst the chaos of Afghanistan. The contrast between Logan’s by-the-rules demeanor and Jillian’s audacious spirit creates an interesting dynamic.
Throughout the narrative, the author masterfully weaves in the challenges faced by both women in their personal and professional lives. Their intense feelings for each other threaten to breach the boundaries they’ve set in place, and this internal conflict adds depth to their characters. A single heart-stopping kiss leads to a heart-wrenching goodbye, adhering to the rules they’ve set for themselves. However, fate has other plans for them, and their paths cross once more over a year later, making it much harder for them to continue abiding by their self-imposed rules.
The story itself is undeniably romantic and endearing, with a good dose of challenges and hurdles thrown in for both women. It’s a tale of love that perseveres despite the odds, and it’s heartwarming to see how Logan and Jillian navigate their way through the complexities of their emotions and the external pressures of their surroundings.
In the end, while No Rules of Engagement didn’t quite capture my heart the way some of Richardson’s other works have, I can see its appeal to those who enjoy military-themed romances and the unique blend of tropes presented in this story. It’s a book that I liked, but it didn’t quite reach the level of love I’ve come to personally expect from this talented author. Nonetheless, it’s a worthwhile read for those seeking a romance novel with a distinctive twist.
3.5 out of 5 stars
No Rules of Engagement by Tracey Richardson is a novel that delves into the complexities of romance amidst the backdrop of war and coming home. While I’ve been an ardent fan of Richardson’s works, I must admit that this book presented a different challenge for me, which made it a bit harder to fully immerse myself in the story. I can’t tell if it was the characters, the story, or the difficulties/issues they faced. I sat on this review for a bit because of it. I don’t want my specific thoughts to ruin someone else’s enjoyment of this story.
One of the standout features of this novel is its setting – the military. It was a refreshing departure from the usual tropes I often find in the genre. Major Logan Sharp, a dedicated military doctor, and photographer Jillian Knight, on assignment to document the heroic work of medical units in war zones, form an unlikely connection amidst the chaos of Afghanistan. The contrast between Logan’s by-the-rules demeanor and Jillian’s audacious spirit creates an interesting dynamic.
Throughout the narrative, the author masterfully weaves in the challenges faced by both women in their personal and professional lives. Their intense feelings for each other threaten to breach the boundaries they’ve set in place, and this internal conflict adds depth to their characters. A single heart-stopping kiss leads to a heart-wrenching goodbye, adhering to the rules they’ve set for themselves. However, fate has other plans for them, and their paths cross once more over a year later, making it much harder for them to continue abiding by their self-imposed rules.
The story itself is undeniably romantic and endearing, with a good dose of challenges and hurdles thrown in for both women. It’s a tale of love that perseveres despite the odds, and it’s heartwarming to see how Logan and Jillian navigate their way through the complexities of their emotions and the external pressures of their surroundings.
In the end, while No Rules of Engagement didn’t quite capture my heart the way some of Richardson’s other works have, I can see its appeal to those who enjoy military-themed romances and the unique blend of tropes presented in this story. It’s a book that I liked, but it didn’t quite reach the level of love I’ve come to personally expect from this talented author. Nonetheless, it’s a worthwhile read for those seeking a romance novel with a distinctive twist.
August 13, 2022
No Rules of Engagement by Tracey Richardson, narrated by Joana Garcia
An enjoyable story of war and peace
This book was on my To Be Read list for years as military doctors’ stories are one of my favorites. I’m not sure why I hadn’t read it before but now that the audiobook was released -and available on Scribd -, I decided to give it a go.
Major Logan Sharp is an emergency doctor completing her last tour in Afghanistan when she is ordered to liaise with photographer Jillian Knight who is documenting the work of military doctors in a war zone. Logan isn’t happy with the assignment but as both women get to know each other, they discover an undercurrent of attraction. But Jillian has a partner and a kid at home and Logan doesn’t know where home is. When they meet again stateside, will they be able to reconnect and act on their attraction?
No Rules of Engagement is divided into two parts, one set in Kandahar, Afghanistan, and the other in the Detroit/Windsor area (US-Canada border) 15 months later. The contrast between the two parts is acute: war vs. peace, military vs. civilian, restrictions vs. possibilities. I enjoyed the first part better because of the fast-paced action, danger, and uncertainty typical of living in a war zone. In part two, the story naturally loses a bit of that frantic pace and I’ve personally missed it.
One of the things I like the most about this author is the Canadian perspective that she always manages to show in her stories. In this case, Logan is Canadian and Jillian is American so there are a few instances to compare both countries in terms of gay rights, healthcare, and lifestyle. I like that the author subtly gets her point across without preaching or sounding condescending.
This is the first time I’ve listened to narrator Joana Garcia. I personally wasn’t convinced by her tone of voice, it sounded too harsh for the story. The performance of emotions was good as well as the different voices so one thing compensated for the other but I believe that I would have enjoyed the story more with a different narrator. 4 stars
Length: 9 hrs and 43 mins
Available in Scribd
An enjoyable story of war and peace
This book was on my To Be Read list for years as military doctors’ stories are one of my favorites. I’m not sure why I hadn’t read it before but now that the audiobook was released -and available on Scribd -, I decided to give it a go.
Major Logan Sharp is an emergency doctor completing her last tour in Afghanistan when she is ordered to liaise with photographer Jillian Knight who is documenting the work of military doctors in a war zone. Logan isn’t happy with the assignment but as both women get to know each other, they discover an undercurrent of attraction. But Jillian has a partner and a kid at home and Logan doesn’t know where home is. When they meet again stateside, will they be able to reconnect and act on their attraction?
No Rules of Engagement is divided into two parts, one set in Kandahar, Afghanistan, and the other in the Detroit/Windsor area (US-Canada border) 15 months later. The contrast between the two parts is acute: war vs. peace, military vs. civilian, restrictions vs. possibilities. I enjoyed the first part better because of the fast-paced action, danger, and uncertainty typical of living in a war zone. In part two, the story naturally loses a bit of that frantic pace and I’ve personally missed it.
One of the things I like the most about this author is the Canadian perspective that she always manages to show in her stories. In this case, Logan is Canadian and Jillian is American so there are a few instances to compare both countries in terms of gay rights, healthcare, and lifestyle. I like that the author subtly gets her point across without preaching or sounding condescending.
This is the first time I’ve listened to narrator Joana Garcia. I personally wasn’t convinced by her tone of voice, it sounded too harsh for the story. The performance of emotions was good as well as the different voices so one thing compensated for the other but I believe that I would have enjoyed the story more with a different narrator. 4 stars
Length: 9 hrs and 43 mins
Available in Scribd
October 22, 2022
Enjoyable, emotional & entertaining book
“Someone once said you don’t miss what you don’t have, but that isn’t true, thought Logan. She would miss the deep friendship she nearly had with Jillian...could have had, if they had more time together.”
+ • + • + • +
This is an emotional & entertaining story. Its captivating storyline flows easily with peaks of intensity that creates a very engaging & entertaining book. With a natural progression, engaging narrative incorporating such formidably vulnerable, passionately flawed yet distinctly unremarkable characters made it come together & worth reading.
“Someone once said you don’t miss what you don’t have, but that isn’t true, thought Logan. She would miss the deep friendship she nearly had with Jillian...could have had, if they had more time together.”
+ • + • + • +
This is an emotional & entertaining story. Its captivating storyline flows easily with peaks of intensity that creates a very engaging & entertaining book. With a natural progression, engaging narrative incorporating such formidably vulnerable, passionately flawed yet distinctly unremarkable characters made it come together & worth reading.
September 2, 2019
This is a well written book with interesting characters and a well thought through plot and scenarios. It is a very satisfying story and left me wanting more. Throw in the Military, the war zones, the intense feelings that happen and you have the makings of more than a romance that delivers in every chapter. Major Sharp and Jillian, the award winning photographer spend a lot of time wanting and wishing and take the long road to get there. Best of the books by this author I have read.
March 16, 2020
This was ok. I liked the first half of the book more than the second half. The tension that developed during the first half didn't flow through to the second half very well IMO, it almost felt like reading two different books. I also found myself rolling my eyes at the love scenes, they read a bit fan-fictiony with lots of exploding bits and 'are you sures'. At one point I thought, 'oh come on, what's next, ministrations?' Lo and behold, a page turn later... So three stars for the first half because I did enjoy that, but the second left me a little flat.
July 19, 2023
3.5 Listened to this book and the narration could use some help. Enjoyed the book overall, typical plot for this type of story.
January 30, 2024
Listened to the audio book, I don't like to leave negative reviews, but I feel like the narrator's performance didn't really deliver and it influenced my opinion of the book.
March 23, 2024
I loved this book, it was very entertaining. I loved the interaction with the characters and the description of the sceneries. I could picture everything happening in my mind.
September 3, 2024
Audiobook, story was ok but narration was quite robotic and dnf'd with over 3 hours to go.
January 18, 2025
It is sweet with a few different things going on. But the things make it interesting. It was all fun and I love cute kids.
January 14, 2016
It was ok. I enjoyed the first half of the book as the characters were introduced, fleshed out more from the inside than the outside which is kinda rare in this genre. Angst and conflict between individuals were danced around just enough to whet our appetites. But then back in real life stateside, the angst wasn't there, the resolution just seemed too pat...almost like it was destined to happen.
Sometimes, I wish these Bella Books were longer to give the author time to really get to know the characters and then put a plot together and follow it all the way to the end without rushing to the obvious answer.
Sometimes, I wish these Bella Books were longer to give the author time to really get to know the characters and then put a plot together and follow it all the way to the end without rushing to the obvious answer.
August 23, 2015
Intense, emotional and very romantic.
This is a real page turner. It's about two committed women in a warzone, in Afghanistan. For me, this warzone felt very realistic. Both women have problems with their relationships. I loved the pace in which the love for each other developed, how the intensity of their attraction grew. All the emotions they go through makes it very interesting. There were several tearful scenes, fear and happy moments. I loved the ending. This is a very well written story and I can highly recommend it.
This is a real page turner. It's about two committed women in a warzone, in Afghanistan. For me, this warzone felt very realistic. Both women have problems with their relationships. I loved the pace in which the love for each other developed, how the intensity of their attraction grew. All the emotions they go through makes it very interesting. There were several tearful scenes, fear and happy moments. I loved the ending. This is a very well written story and I can highly recommend it.
August 3, 2011
I really enjoyed the first half of this book set on an Army base in Afghanistan.
Then it enters cliched romance land, where issues are glossed over and character motivation is kept in the dark, only to hint at *something* before the big reveal and HEA.
Still, likeable characters, quick read on a train ride.
Then it enters cliched romance land, where issues are glossed over and character motivation is kept in the dark, only to hint at *something* before the big reveal and HEA.
Still, likeable characters, quick read on a train ride.
June 22, 2013
I wish we could give half stars, I liked this book enough for 3.5 stars, but not quite enough to give it 4 stars, but was a good read.
May 31, 2014
Love it
First time reading anything from this author and must say I will be reading more. Love Logan and Jillian and I thought Mark was a male friend we could all use.
First time reading anything from this author and must say I will be reading more. Love Logan and Jillian and I thought Mark was a male friend we could all use.
September 25, 2012
Often stilted but cute overall.
September 17, 2017
You pick a military related book and you expect action and gore. This book gave both but with far less considerable intensity than many books of its ilk. I liked it and liked the fated romance as well.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews