Cruisin For Love: A Christmas SEAL Romance

SEAL Brotherhood: Legacy #5

by Sharon Hamilton

Third Time is the Charm, or not?

Mark Beale and his wife, Sophia, plan to celebrate ten years of marriage by going on a trans-Atlantic cruise from Italy to the Caribbean at Christmas with their three daughters. Hoping to erase the memories of past cruises which turned out to be complete disasters, they plan to renew their wedding vows, enjoy a relaxing family vacation, and visit Sophia's mother in Italy.

But for this Navy SEAL and his family, will the third time be the charm, or will they be unlucky again? Why does danger threaten to not only ruin their cruise, but their family?

Enjoy appearances by Captain Teseo Dominichello and other characters from SEAL Team 3.

Readers should enjoy reading Cruisin' For A SEAL first, the story of how Mark and Sophia met years ago. This book is a continuation of their relationship and the growth of their family after ten years have passed.

Genres: Contemporary, Military Fiction, Military Romance, Christmas

250 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 13, 2022

About the author

Romance novelist of the following series:

Navy SEAL Books (includes the SEAL Brotherhood, Bad Boys of SEAL Team 3, True Blue SEALs, Band of Bachelors, and Nashville SEALs series)

Golden Vampires of Tuscany (Honeymoon Bite, Mortal Bite)

The Guardians (Guardian Angel Erotic Romance) Heavenly Lover, Underworld Lover

Lives in wine country, Northern California. When not writing, she is getting vera vera dirty in her flower and vegetable gardens.

Reviews

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The career of Navy SEAL is both rewarding and challenging for Mark and his family. Marrying Sophie and creating a life for their three children has been the happiest ten years of his life but it is time for them to enjoy some rest and relaxation as a family.

They decide a cruise to Italy to spend some time with Sophie’s family is the perfect getaway. Things don’t turn out the way they expected but they show what a perfect team they can be as they face this dangerous adventure head on.

The characters draw you and the suspense keeps you edge as the twists keep coming.

[Sassy Lady · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the book. It kept my attention from the first page. The story of the book relate to things that happen in every day life. Very well written.

[Cath · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book five of the SEAL Brotherhood: Legacy series and the main characters are Team 3 Navy SEAL Mark Beale and his wife, Sophia, who have been married for ten years and have three young daughters. They are about reach their tenth wedding anniversary and although money is short, Mark would like to do something nice for his wife, but it would have to be child friendly! They end up on a cruise that starts in Italy, so Sophia can visit her Italian mother, and Sophia uses her connections with the cruise company and a late cancellation, to get them a wonderful deal for the holidays. Sophia will work as a dance instructor again, with Mark helping out, while they have the children with a babysitting service or in the children’s clubs on-board. He had hoped this third cruise would wipe out the bad memories of previous cruises, but something is about to catch them out yet again, even with a ship’s captain Teseo, they know from one of their previous journeys. Trying to keep an eye on all three girls in such a busy atmosphere, makes it difficult at times, especially when one of the girls ends up picking up something dangerous, she thought was sweets, that a teenage boy had dropped.

A gang of teenage boys are creating havoc on the ship and after stupidly saying he wouldn’t end up in the water this time, to one of his SEAL brothers, he ends up in the drink! Further run-ins with these teenagers soon leads to an accusation of assault against Mark and he is pulled off the ship altogether! If he is charged, he could lose his job as a Navy SEAL and end up in jail in a foreign country. Not exactly the relaxing celebratory and relaxing holiday cruise they had hoped for and Sophia is suddenly left alone with their three young girls, knowing the language but not the legal system! It seems the teenager he caught has important family connections and everything has been blown up to extremes, as these people try to cover up the actions of the teenager. These family connections believe they are far more important than a Navy SEAL and his young family, doing all they can to have him disappear and stop any of his family from helping him, even accusing a younger person of being responsible for drug dealing! Far reaching accusations are bombarding their family and all their help is an ocean away. Mark can’t overcome his protector role and if he sees something wrong, will always try to make it right and keep others safe. Now it looks like his whole family are having to pay for his unthinking actions. Shocking how easy it is to see something like this happening in the world today. A great story, which ends somewhat suddenly, but loving Sophia’s actions at the end and her determination to get her family back! I can’t wait to read more of these stories. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting, unpredictable story with all the warm, fuzzy family feels folded in. Works perfectly as a standalone but this is a series that is well worth reading or listening to from start to finish.

Mark and Sophia decide to celebrate ten years of marriage by going on a trans-Atlantic cruise from Italy to the Caribbean at Christmas with their three daughters, with a renewal of their wedding vows and a trip to visit Sophia’s mother in Italy thrown in. Their last two cruises were disasters but they are hopeful this will turn out to be just the family vacation they need.

The three girls are sweet, if a handful at times. Sophia is passionate, emotional, fiery, and maybe could also be handful at times, and ready for a break after having so much of the parenting fall on her shoulders alone with Mark away for SEAL duties so much. You can see the love between them is strong; you can also see there is a little tension that rest, relaxation and romance – when they can fit that in – might ease.

The visit with Sophia’s family is wonderful. The cruise starts out wonderful, too. Sophia and Mark are working as crew to provide dance lessons, there are plenty of fun activities and delicious meals, Sophia reunites with the Captain and crew she knew from her past employment on board, and the girls are enjoyed a little relaxed discipline because this is a special trip.

However – and that never sounds good, does it – things quickly start to go wrong. And become very dangerous. Drugs on the ship, high-powered people who think they are above the law, Mark’s arrested, Sophia’s kidnapping. So much for that perfect vacation.

Thanks to author Sharon Hamilton for providing an Audible copy of Cruisin’ for Love via her newsletter. This was a story meant for listening: talented narrator JD Hart makes the story come to life with perfect pacing and a knack for voices. My first introduction to this series but I will be returning for more. I leave this review voluntarily; all opinions are my own.

[Linda Carlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark & Sophia

Romance on the high seas! Maybe, sort of...

Mark & Sophia need a vacation. Their life is stressful with Mark being gone on missions a lot so the strain on Sophia is showing. Christmas is coming and so is their 10th Wedding Anniversary so why not have a special vacation to celebrate their family?

I found it ironic how Mark has the unfortunate luck on cruises, especially since he is a Navy SEAL and has trained extensively in and on the water. I also found it very fortunate Sophia was able to get a job as a dance instructor on the ship, along with Mark, which makes the cost of their vacation greatly reduced. This is a cruise that should turn out to be special for sure.

It was fantastic to see through the eyes of this author the lovely descriptions of the scenery, the Italian countryside and of the many beautiful buildings and shops of Naples. The people were depicted in such a favorable and friendly way I was wishing I could experience Italy for myself. I found this story to be very exciting, full of different emotions and various interesting scenarios. As always, the many intricate details this author includes in her stories brings them to life and gives the reader a vacation without the cost! Love this!

[Miki · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sequel and for once i would say you may enjoy it more if it's read in order but it can work as stand alone simply we have a lesser understanding of the charaters andonly a small idea of past events as they don't reveal a lot ( secret mission etc^^)

However this is great suspense military romance. Mark is a SEAL and he is happily married with 3 daughters.....but when their ten years anniversary is neart Mark realizes Sophie is wanting more. Taking care of 3children while he is on mission is starting to get too much she wants time with her Husband....
To celebrate their anniversary, they decide to go to Italy for Christmas to visit Sophie's mother and to be able to afford the travel and sejourn they do part of it on a cruise working as dance teacher , and assistant. But what should have been a relaxing, romantic holidays turn bad when one of their daughters discover some drugs on the boat. For Mark the priority is his family safety and that include finding the culprit even if nothing will go as planned.

I really liked the story and absolutely loved how Mark reacted to the demand of Sophie's mother

The christmas setting is just perfectly distilled in the romance and suspense.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the continuation of Mark and Sophia's story! It takes place 10 years after their marriage and they decide to do a trip it Italy with the 3 girls to see their grandmother, Sophia's Mother. They plan on taking a cruise back home to America, one which they will work as dance instructors to work off the bulk of their costs for their vacation. An ex-Seal is the Captain of the cruise Ship, who is one of Mark's friends from their time working together. As seems to be the curse for Mark and Sophia, something is not perfect on this cruise! Mark trying to do what is second nature to him protecting his family and other innocents has realized that a group of teen boys is wrecking havoc on their cruise ship and tries to apprehend one that he suspects is dealing or taking drugs. The events thereafter are horrible repercussions to what should have been a heroic event, instead it becomes a nightmare for them. A great read with a lot happening. It is perfect for the season and you can't help but let your heart go out to this couple that is trying to do all the right things and raise their daughters the right way. It is very well written and you can't help but admire this young couple!

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've said this with all the SEAL books where the guys from the Team go on a cruise of some sort, I might feel safe but I don't think any cruise travel insurance will cover the things that seem to keep happening! Marc and Sophia are coming up on their 10th Anniversary and they find a way to go on a cruise with their girls to Italy by being part of the entertainment on the cruise. Things turn horrifying for Marc and Sophia as one of their daughters finds a bag of "candy" that turns out to be drugs. Marc just can't help being a protective SEAL and sets out to investigate who on the ship is distributing the drugs and that's when things start to go downhill as the culprit has some international and protected connections which lands Marc in an Italian jail! The storyline kept me on my toes as I wondered if this "Anniversary" trip would end in the destruction of Marc's marriage and maybe his career. I am thoroughly enjoying how Sharon Hamilton is bringing back some of the well known and loved characters from earlier books and providing us with a glimpse of how their lives have progressed since we last read their stories.

I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest and totally voluntary review.

[Rebmay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mark, a navy SEAL, and his wife have been married ten years, and have decided to take a special trip to celebrate the occasion. Their family will travel to Italy to visit Sophia’s mother then embark on a cruise from Italy to the Caribbean. They also plan to renew their wedding vows with their daughters present. Unfortunately, they have never had good luck on any cruise they have taken and that same luck holds true this time. Mark never seems to be able to elude the presence of danger or some criminal activity and this time one of his daughters is involved. The protector side of Mark comes out in full force and mayhem, trouble and danger ensue. What was supposed to a a wonderful and special family vacation turns into an unmitigated disaster that threatens the welfare of each family member.

This book is intriguing, suspenseful and compelling. I thoroughly enjoyed Mark’s protective side, his determination and his deep love for his family. Sophia is a loyal and loving wife, a great mom and one very resourceful and determined lady. They complement each other very well, and should never think of taking another cruise. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jamie Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Will Happen This Time?

I love how this author not only writes detailed, wonderful stories about couples’ original romances, but she's also written many showing the couples and their families 10 years after they got together. That’s why “Legacy” is used in the series’ name. This is one of those “10 years later” books. It takes place at Christmas, and the couple decides to spend the holiday in Italy with the wife's mother, who hasn’t yet met the newest member of the family, and then return home on a cruise ship, starting right there in Napoli and ending up in Florida. As I have read other books in this series, I know cruises rarely work out well for our vacationing Navy SEALs! Will that be true in this case? And will it work out for the aging, ailing Italian mother/grandmother who desires to move to the United States to be with her daughter and granddaughters? You'll have to read the book to find out. Since this is a continuation of the couple's love story, I recommend reading their original love story to better understand how they came together as a couple and the challenges they faced. An excellent book in a well-written series.

I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book five in The Seal Brotherhood : Legacy series and it continues Mark and Sophia's story. After Mark and Sophia's last two cruises ended in disaster and turned into a mission they are hoping that there third time will be a better one as they are not only celebrating ten year's of marriage but also going to renew there wedding vows with there three daughter's present. When everything turns upside down and there is a threat to his family Mark will do anything and everything possible to protect his family and keep them safe but will they manage to overcome the problems that are threatening the family and he able to return home, only time will tell what the outcome will be for them all. I absolutely loved this book and I couldn't put it down as it was a real page turner and totally addictive along with danger, suspense, drama, kidnapping, hope, love and family. I would love a epilogue to find out what the consequences were for the guilty party and I definitely recommend you read this book and other's by Sharon Hamilton who is an amazing author and writer and her book's are definitely worth reading.

I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark Beale and family are trying to decide what they can do to celebrate 10 years together with their 3 little ones. Sophie would like to go to Italy to see her mother, but the cost of flights may be out of their budget. However Sophie used to work for an Italian cruise line that she can be part of the crew as a dance instructor and Mark will be her dance partner. With that also comes the plane trip from California to Italy. Things seem to be going along well meeting up with the Captain that they know from a previous cruise. However things get interesting when one if the girls tries to return what she thinks is a bag of candy. This little bag is the essence of where this story takes off in a rather crazy problem that Mark finds himself in. Taken off the ship by police, jail, kidnapping, what else has Sharon have happen to the Beale family. Enjoy the read you will be sitting on the edge of your seat to find out what the final outcome is for all.
I was given and an ARC copy for my honest opinion of this book.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have so many unanswered questions that I can't ask because they would lead to spoiler alerts.

I am not quite sure how to write this review. I can say there was action, danger, and suspense involved. I can say that some of SEAL Team 3 plays a part. I can say there was an element of political corruption and criminal behavior. There was also a sense of injustice, fear, and desperation. There were also enjoyable moments on the cruise.

Mark and Sophia had a couple of romantic moments, but I definitely would not say this book was heavy on the romance. It had more to do with a couple supporting one another through thick and thin. Dealing with all of the issues life was prone to throw at them.

TBH, I have to wonder if this story will continue in a future book. There was some resolution, but not complete resolution, at least as far as I am concerned. To me, there was entirely too much unfinished business left. I still enjoyed the book. It was an entertaining read that left me frustrated.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Christina · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is the third story specifically discussing Mark and Sophia Beale. However, I was really disappointed in the story. The premise is that for their 10th anniversary Mark and Sophia and their kids are going on a cruise trying to break their streak of bad luck when it comes to going on cruises. It doesn’t take long for things to go awry though which is the focus of the story.

Overall, I just didn’t enjoy Sophia in this book I just felt like there were a few times where she was whiny about being a mom and some of the choices just seemed not in her character. I also thought some of the story was a little disjointed (For example a visit to Sophia‘s mom at the beginning of the book where her moving in with them is mentioned but never brought up again). It may be just me that didn’t enjoy this book, but I would highly recommend the first or second book about Mark and Sophia over this one. I’m a fan of Hamilton’s -just not this story.

I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Frances Hernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this ebook ARC, from the author, on the condition that I write an honest review.
Sharon Hamilton has done it again. She has written another great story about a seal defending the rights of the innocent while facing adversity. This story had love, family togetherness, intrigue, and the solving of a criminal situation.
Once again, Seal Mark and his family set sail this time it’s to renew their vows. A dangerous situation involving drugs and Mark’s attempt to resolve the situation results in Mark getting arrested. He and Sophia attempt to get help for his charges, but in the process, Sophia gets kidnapped. Using her intelligence, Sophia escapes her captor, and a good lawyer gets Mark released.
As usual Sharon Hamilton writes a book about Seal honor in the face of adversity. I’ll always recommend her books, because she brings the reader along for an experience, with beautiful descriptions of the Italian countryside.

[Becky Claxon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mark, a Navy Seal, and Sophia were coming on their tenth wedding anniversary and wanted to do something special. Sophia’s mother lived in Italy as that was where Sophia was born. They made special plans to see her with their three children, and then take a cruise. If you read the past books, you will remember there were some crazy things that happened on two cruises. Mark’s buddies gave him a hard time about taking another cruise. I can understand why Mark didn’t think there was any reason to worry. Murphy’s Law likes to stick his ugly head in and mess things up. You will need to read all the things the family had to go through. Poor Mark had been conditioned to always look out for everyone, while sometimes it doesn’t pay off! I encourage you to read the book. I was given a book and voluntarily wrote a review.

[Donise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would suggest reading Cruisin for A SEAL first just because there are reoccurring references to what happened in that book, but it isn't mandatory as this book will stand by itself. This story picks up as Mark and Sophia get ready to celebrate their ten-year anniversary. When Mark asks Sophia what she would like to do to celebrate, Sophia tells him to surprise her. They decide to go visit her mother in Italy and then take a cruise home with their three daughters. Although it seems that SEALS may be cursed when it comes to cruises, Mark just knows that this cruise will be different. Read to see if you agree. Sophia is a spitfire, and their three daughters are so cute, especially the youngest. I love Ms. Hamilton's SEAL stories and look forward to reading each new one that comes along.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Dana zamora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophia and Mark take their kids on a celebration cruise for their anniversary, seeing her mother and his friend the captain of the Seal's terrorist cruise, working part-time as dance instructors to get a discount since Sophia used to work for the cruise line, what could go wrong, nothing, smooth sailing, annoying table mate's, beautiful weather, decisions to have her mother come live with them, uneventful really, well not really when rowdy kids start causing trouble that starts with their daughter finding candy they dropped and tried to give back, Mark finds it in her bag, things get worse, diplomatic immunity, hog wash, corruption most definitely, kidnapping sure, Christmas miracle and love, Sharon Hamilton you have a way with words, I have voluntarily read and review this ARC, thank you for the privilege, Dana Zamora

[Miriam Wolfe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.

Mark and Sophia have never been my favorite couple as they seem to fight more than most couples, but this was an interesting story. This time, ten years have passed and they are going to try a cruise again.

There was a lot of drama and intrigue for the couple and new problems to conquer. So, it was hard to put the book down.

The only thing that I didn't like was that Mark was so into warrior mode that he was not thinking about how his actions could affect or hurt his family. Plus, I would hope that a Seal would be a little more discrete and follow the leads and identify the guilty person and turn that info over to the authorities. But since that is not my line of work, I don't understand his mindset!

Hope they don't try another cruise!

[Catlou · Rating 4 out of 5]

CRUISIN' FOR LOVE is a continuation of Mark and Sophia’s story which began in “Cruisin’ for a SEAL.” While Mark and Sophia are trying to celebrate their 10th anniversary with their girls, they are confronted by some unexpected twists and turns that may catch you by surprise but will certainly have you on edge and thoroughly involved. Anyone who has been in a long-term committed relationship will identify with the marital tensions Mark and Sophia are experiencing. It’s what makes this a story to which most can relate. There are additional touches of intrigue and suspense that will have you on tenterhooks (just like Sophia) which bring an element of excitement that will keep you turning pages from start to finish.

[A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cruisin For Love is a great follow up to Cruisin for a Seal. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It is set ten years later, and Mark and Sophia are going on a cruise to Italy to see her mother and celebrate their anniversary. Things never go well for Sharon’s Seals on cruises though. Will the third time be a charm? Mark finds himself in trouble when he tries to do the right thing to protect his girls and guess fellow passengers. Can Sophia and his SEAL family help him out? This is a great Christmas story, and it shows a renewed love for family that is heart felt! There was lots of suspense mixed in, and I couldn’t put it down!

[Melinda Swaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sharon Hamilton is one of the most reliable thriller-romance writers in the world!! Her books just grab you and keep hold even when you have finished the book. They just stay with you just like this couple did the first time. Loved getting more story with these characters. Love catching up. And loved that it was at Christmas time too. She just hits it out of the park. Totally deserves more than the 5 stars. I’m not giving anything away, just grab this book. You’re totally going to love it. As always Ms Hamilton always delivers… I love to curl up with anything she writes!! Totally did with this book. Happy reading everyone

[janelle beaver · Rating 4 out of 5]

We're back with Mark and Sophie and it's been ten years and they decided to take the girls and go on a Christmas cruise to Italy. There's danger, suspense, and corruption that gets Mark into trouble. Can Sophie help Mark and help get them back home. This book shows how this couple supports each other and there's a lot getting thrown their way. And they both see what family means to each other. I'm hoping there's another book following Mark since some things were left unresolved. But it was an enjoyable book, and we did see Kyle.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark and Sophia decide to take a cruise over Christmas for their 10th Anniversary. Their cruise leaves from Italy after visiting Sophia's elderly mother. As typical for members of SEAL Team 3 the cruise does not go as planned. As problems arise Mark tries to help solve the problem things go awry. Will Mark put his Navy career in danger? Will Mark and Sophia and the 3 girls have a good vacation? Ms. Hamilton does a wonderful job of telling this story. The detail you know that she has researched Italian law and landscape so she can write with knowledge this book.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

I volunteered to read and review an advanced readers copy of Cruisin for Love . Navy Seal Mark Beale and his wife Sophia decide to celebrate their ten year anniversary with taking their three girls on cruise from Italy to the Caribbean during Christmas and they want to renew their vows . After the previous two cruises were filled with danger they hope this one will be fine . Unfortunately things go haywire and dangerous putting the family in danger . This story is fantastic . Suspenseful and intriguing . I highly recommend reading . A great holiday story .

[Jennie Fortna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A*R*C for honest review with no compensation

Cruisin for Love is book 5 in the SEAL Brotherhood Legacy series by Sharon Hamilton and here we are 10 years later with Mark, Sophia from our favorite SEAL team.

We meet up with Mark, Sophia and their 3 daughters taking a cruise to renew their vows which turns into so much more…

Drama, adversity, family, kidnapping, corruption, twists, turns, picturesque scenery, supporting each other, drugs and most of all love…read on but hold on to the edge of your seat to see how it all ends … another well written SEAL book!

[Delaine Mclafferty · Rating 5 out of 5]

The luck of some people leaves a lot to be desired. If you go on a cruise ship you are hoping that everything is going to go smoothly and that you will have the time of your life even with 3 small children with you. How can you get into trouble on a cruise ship? Just be a member of Seal Team 3 and the 3rd time’s a charm. Can anyone help Mark and Sophia get home again? Will Mark’s career as a Seal be over? Grab the book and be entertained from beginning to end. I loved it and recommend it to everyone.

[Terra Oenning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy smokes this book was absolutely fantastic and will have you enthralled from the beginning until the end and the storyline flowed throughout the book. Mark and Sophia Beale take a cruise for their 10 year anniversary with their daughters but will they finally get a nice relaxing cruise or will it be another nightmare with gangs, drugs and suspense and action packed .I absolutely loved this story. Sharon Hamilton this book literally had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Bravo well done.

[Annette Drewett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Story! Mark & Sophia decide to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary in Italy visiting her mother then going as staff on a Christmas Cruise with their daughters. Little do they expect what awaits them on the cruise. Will they be strong enough to overcome their problems and keep their family together? Can Mark’s team support Sophia from afar and arrange help when it is needed? I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Sheila Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cruisin' for Love is Book 5 in the SEAL Brotherhood: Legacy series that can be read as a stand-alone novel. I found it somewhat entertaining but the plot concept was not very believable. There was a lot of repetitive dialog which made the story drag.
The biggest disappointment for me was the book's ending. The climax of the story ... wasn't. Several items weren't resolved and the ending fell flat.
Without providing spoilers, I'll just say this: Cruisin' for Love was not up to the standards I expect from this author.
3 1/2 stars.