Her Captivated Hero by Caitlyn O'Leary

Absolutely loved Gray and Riya's story -- how they met, connected, bonded. How they managed to survive a mission together. How their hea story just captured my attention and made my heart happy to experience.

The more of Caitlyn O'Leary's books I read, the more I find myself drawn to their world. I love all the cross overs and the relationships between all the characters.

Review: Code Name: Ghost

Code Name: Ghost by Natasza Waters
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

2019 cover-to-cover reread.

OMGOODNESS 2.0

I love rereading a book because I get so much more out of the story. I pick up on smaller details I may have missed or not realized were actually huge the first time. Code Name Ghost fed something different to my heart this time - giving me exactly what I needed my heart and head to hear at this time in my life. Love how rereads can give that to you, too.

Needless to say, I'm still head over heels in love with Thane and Kayla's story... and I'm antsy to get to Kayla's Fire next.

If you want a story that will give you action along with heart, beauty along with pain, don't hesitate picking up Code Name Ghost and diving in. You won't regret it.


*****
2013 review

OH MY GOODNESS.

Two weeks later and I'm still lost in this story and am planning on my next re-read right before book 2 comes out in November!! (and am keeping my eye out for those bridge chapter(s)!) So glad when this book caught my eye in the Kindle Recommended reads - because this has got to be one of the best stories I've read.... ever!

Once I started this book, I couldn't look away! Kayla captured my heart and Thane, well... I want Thane (sorry, Kayla! You're gonna have to share!). So much of this story touches my heart. I have the biggest soft spot for military men/women and their families - I know life in/around the military is a huge struggle, and that there's something so much deeper than all the glam and frosting people tend to get caught up in. CNG brings so much of that reality out! While I sometimes want to holler at Thane and Kayla and tell them to just give in already, I can *totally* understand why they're acting the way they are!! The story is so much deeper than just the romance and fluff that so many military romance novels contain - and I greatly appreciate that! I absolutely love how their relationship grew slowly, even though the sparks flew from day one!

I felt just about every emotion along with them - I was crying, laughing, stressing, groaning (in frustration... oh, that still don't sound right! haha!), freaking out (I finished the book during a severe night thunderstorm, and was just a tad bit jumpy at the noises outside!).

I enjoyed building up friendships with the other members of Team One and look forward to their stories as well!

And I had to giggle - with as much complains about the ending (cliff hanger) I did go in with my eyes open - so maybe that's why it didn't bother me so much. Then again, sometimes I rather enjoy cliffys, and this one wasn't as bad as what I was thinking it was going to be!

Athica Lane by Brynne Asher

I love finding books that make my heart happy - and Paige and Cam's HEA overflows my heart with all the feel-goods! Give me a alpha male who's got some rough edges but makes up for it in the best of ways, and a charming, girly, sassy, sweet heroine who's his perfect match, who's both soft and strong, and I will melt and swoon through the whole story!

Until Avery by Brynne Asher

Hmmmmm mmmmm good!! The more of Brynne Asher stories I read, the more I fall in love with her writing style and worlds and characters. Until Avery is no exception.

From beginning to end, I just flat out swooned and enjoyed this story. Avery is the exception to alot of 20yr old characters - she's smart and mature to go with her sweet and fun. And her "bad girl" moments just made me giggle. Link was tough, swoony, sweet, alpha bossy, and showed just how much Avery was his everything. Loved how sweet and charming their hea was and I adored watching their BOOM come over them.

Until Leo by Rochelle Paige

*swoony happy sigh*

I loved finding out that Nico's partner Leo was gonna get his own story, and wow! Did this make my heart happy!

I loved how Leo found his boom and how they just worked out so well together. Carrie was just adorable and smart and so sweet. Leo was hot and the perfect kind of alpha caveman hero!

I couldn't stop smiling through the whole story -- just a fun, sweet escape!

Until Nox: Happily Ever Alpha World by Layla Frost

I fell absolutely head-over-heals in love with this story!!

Low on drama/angst and overflowing with heart, Until Nox gave me many of the things I desire most in a story: a hero who's a modern day outlaw-ish good guy (maybe? maybe not? oh, that bad boy thin line he rides!), a heroine who's your every-day kinda girl, strong, but yet soft and sweet, a insta-love story that feels real, and a couple who's basically together from the get-go and can (gasp!) communicate (haha!).

Killian Nox won me over with his attitude, his alpha-confidence, and his respect/consideration of Gus. How he took care of her and respected her just melted me! I'd say more, but, you gotta experience Nox for yourself! *swoon!*

Gus was so stinkin' awesome -- I love her confidence, her determination, her loyalty, her sweetness, her sass, her maturity, and her openness. She made me fall even harder for the story.

Together, they were perfect!

I loved how this tied into the Masons in Tennesse (ARR's Until characters) and we got to see some sweet, beautiful moments with them.

This is definitely not a story to miss out on!! Totally gave my heart all the feel-goods and made it to my favorites shelf. I can't wait to revisit this story!!

Hyde and Seek by Layla Frost

I absolutely adored watching Jake and Piper fall in love and figure things out between them. Jake is swoony yummy and Piper is sweet and cute and I just wanna be her best friend. Or wait... Be her so I can have Jake's focus. (happy sigh).

This is a book I've enjoyed visiting over and over again. 

Embers of the Heart by Rosanne Bittner

Embers of the Heart is a beautifully epic and emotional read from the first page to the last! Be prepared for a roller-coaster ride of feelings when you dive into this story.

Besides delivering an enduring love story, it also teaches the power of love, acceptance, and forgiveness; how evil and hate can burn and destroy a person; and how the consequences and waves of war can continue to ripple and destroy long after the last bullet is fired.

Anna is a young woman who's struggling with facing how the rumblings of war affect her family, and ultimately the loss of her first husband. She shows incredible fortitude and inner strength holding herself together while living through the unknowns and questions of how to survive this time. Her faithfulness and love shine through. You can't help but cheer when doors are finally opened so she can claim her happily ever after with a perfect man for her - even knowing there's still some dark valleys they'll have to travel through.

Nate is exactly the honorable, devoted, strong hero Anna needs in her life. His respect of every facet of Anna showed clearly - even if he may have kinda grumbled about things, they were still the same things that drew him to her. His pursuit of her from beginning throughout their marriage was a thing of beauty. No, he wasn't the perfect man, and could be quite the stubborn fool at moments (neither was perfect - Anna also had her stubborn faults and fears), but he always found his way back to Anna's side, right where he belonged.

Even the secondary characters pull at you in ways - not always good, and not always bad... but they're not exempt from giving you moments to pause, think, and feel.

The amount of love the poured off the pages in the last several chapters stole my breath and made tears streak my face. There's a particular scene (don't worry, no spoilers) that just wrecked me in the rawness and painfulness. And the way Anna and Nate clung and hung onto each other during that time? Breath-stealing in its devotion and overwhelming beauty.

This is probably one of my favorite Rosanne Bittner stories -- where it holds you captive from beginning to end, and gifts you with so much more than a romantic tale, but nuggets of empathy and true love. This is not a book to skip over!

Rescue Trail by Darrel Sparkman

I quickly fell in love with this story from first page to last!! Rescue Trail is a charming little escape that gives you heart, laughter, and a touch of bad@ss excitement.

Jake is kinda lost and wandering around after losing his wife years ago and hasn't really figured out what to do next. Then he runs into a lady who needs a bit of help, but there's some sparks and attitude she's dishing out. Watching them play off the other and breathe some life back into Jake is a charming hoot.

If you want a quick little story to set up some fun daydreams (because really, I'd've loved to see this become a longer novella or even a full length novel.. Seeing Lady and Jake partner up and take on the world together would be awesome!!) or just to fully entertain when you don't got alot of time for an escape, this story would be perfect!

This part made me giggle probably more than it should have, but it's still so true.

“Lady, there’s only one rule in a gunfight.”
She looked at him with moist eyes. “Which is?”
He leaned toward her. “Don’t get shot.”

The Last Warrant by Darrel Sparkman

What happens when you get a disillusioned US Marshal trying to figure out what he truly wants out of life -- to keep going till an outlaw bullet gets him finally, or take a chance at having a peaceful, good life back home on his ranch? But what's really waiting back at the ranch but an empty house and some cows?

Luke, while being a tough as nails marshal, also had some quirks that made him a bit softer on the inside, and more human. (I still giggle with some consequences of his job and some injuries that come with it.) He had a sense of honor and forgiveness.... of mercy and respect, for both law-abiding citizens and outlaws (but ya know, the more evil of an outlaw you are, the more ruthlessly he's gonna react and deal with you... just sayin'. haha). But he also didn't let others run roughshod over him. I adored when he first met Sarah and the eyes they made at each other and their connection.

Sarah proved very quickly she was the missing piece Luke'd been looking for -- the perfect woman to handle and fit in with his life, whatever he decided to do. She had a strength and cute sassy attitude that complimented him well.

Oh, and I enjoyed the little cross over with Rawlings from Rescue Trail. :) (I *love* that story!)

This is an excellent short novella that gives you all the goodness of a gritty western with a sweet helping of a love story all wrapped up in an easy to read package. Definitely not a story to skip over when you're looking for a short little somethin' to tide ya over.

Den of Thieves by Patti Sherry-Crews

So...... I thought I knew what this book was about. I've seen the research Patti Sherry-Crews had been sharing on the PRP blog, I've read the blurb, I had gotten little teases/hints in some side conversations.... and yet.... I wasn't truly prepared for the mind games and twists and surprises that weaved the story together!

If you're into the sort of thing where you thrive on not knowing anything about a story... just dive right on into the story and stop reading here. Otherwise here's just a little more for you - besides the encouragement to just keep turning the pages, be prepared, there's some drama and twists and curious moments ahead!

Wynne is not the usual kind of hero I'm drawn to... he's quieter, a little hesitant, a bit more unsure of himself. Then again, going undercover as your estranged brother into a outlaw gang where you're on your own, totally out of your element, and dependent upon your outlaw brother telling the truth about everything... and then you encounter some pretty major surprises, one has every right to feel off-kilter. And while overall his personality is on the quieter, gentler side, there's moments where he digs deep and finds an inner strength that I think surprised even him at first. I enjoyed watching his character growth and how he built his confidence in himself. I think he was the perfect kind of man Lucy was needing in her life.

Lucy.... oh my, that girl! She was an unexpected sweet surprise! Her mix of soft and strong drew me to her, even as my heart was breaking for her and cheering her on at the same time. She made some choices that set her on a very tough path, and despite the heavy struggles, she found ways to thrive and survive. When it all was said and done, she definitely needed a man like Wynne in her life to fully bloom.

I was delightfully surprised at how empathetic I felt and attached I became to some side characters... I don't want to spoil anything, just know you may also find yourself rootin' for some of them as well! Maybe it's because I like a bit of a bad boy.... ;)

Anyways, this was another awesome story by Patti Sherry-Crews that I enjoyed opening the cover and falling into.

*leaves the room whistling an old Alan Jackson song...
still you wonder...
who's cheatin' who
and who's bein' true
and who don't even care anymore
makes you wonder
who's doin' right
with someone tonight...
who's horse is stabled next door.

;)

Snowfall: A Slashes in the Snow Prequel by M. Never

YES please - bad@$$ biker meets high-class woman and they're adult about things and they talk and let the sparks fly?! Stinkin' loved it!! Another older couple book (she's in her lower 40s, he's upper 40s) and the heat and attraction and realness is off the charts!

This was my first book by M Never and I'm looking forward to trying out the next in the series.

Also - both narrators rocked (I first listened to this through the Read Me Romance podcast) and brought this story to life.

Her Wicked Hero by Caitlyn O'Leary

I adored this story! Loved their connection, their sparks, their attitude! Jungle rescues are also a favorite adventure of mine and this one delivered!

Marcia reminded me alot of myself, and I think that's why I connected so well to her, even if some things she did brought some grrs (haha, ahem... perhaps that's why I hear some grrs in real life too?? lol ummmmm.....). And Zed swept me..er....Marcia off her feet and it just melted me!

Another thing I loved is the bond of brotherhood and family that is displayed so wonderfully - and seems to be a common thread through all O'Leary books I've read. That makes these stories all the more enjoyable and addictive to me.

Her Vigilant SEAL by Caitlyn O'Leary

Loved it! Another awesome SEAL story.

Plus, I got a charming, sweet, shy, girl-next-door for a heroine who still had a strength all her own, which I've been waiting to find more of!

Mason.... He was perfect for her! Uber protective, swoony sweet, just bossy enough, he tripped my trigger.

Her Devoted HERO by Caitlyn O'Leary

I've found a new military romantic suspense author to add to my favorites list! I totally adored this story - perfect mix of love story and action! Kenna's got sass that serves her well and a amazing love for her boy. Dex has the smarts, the will power and the protective instincts to meet his woman head on. They compliment each other perfectly! Throw in a bad guy story line that keeps ya guessing and a teenage boy turning to be a man and I'm swoonin' over it!

My only wish would be that Kenna's stubborn strength would have eased up earlier and she let go and leaned more on Dex.  I get why she didn't, but it just hurt my heart so much for her.

I'm looking forward to discovering more stories in this world.

The Cowboy's Honor by Amy Sandas

OMGoodness!!! I honestly couldn't stop smiling. The. Entire. Book!!! And once I started, I couldn't stop and finished it all in one day! The Cowboy's Honor is such a cute and adorable and fun read!!

I absolutely adored how Courtney was sassy (in the best of ways) and had such a great attitude facing every trial and challenge that she faced. She had some growing up to do, just in the culture shock of going from a pampered daughter of society to a rancher's wife, but she met that challenge head on and bloomed. I loved seeing her discover herself and in turn, discover what she truly wanted out of life. Seeing her fall in love with the man who "messed up" her independence seeking? Priceless!

Dean had some pretty heavy burdens to carry, along with a heavy-handed demon clinging to him. But those challenges made him into the man of honor he was - respected, responsible, protective. His one moment of loco gave him the best gift of all in Courtney when he married and claimed responsibility for her. Watching him figure out his feelings for her and fall in love was so satisfying! He had his moments of crazy still, but his pursuit of her heart? Swoon-worthy!

I loved getting to meet up again with Malcolm and Alexandria (from book 1) briefly and see how they were doing. Also, the Lawton family just melted me with how accepting and welcoming of Courtney they were, and how they truly made the family feels flow off the page - oh, and their match-making nudges! haha!

This book really just made me happy and delivered a charming story I look forward to revisiting in the future!

If you want book that'll melt your heart and give you the feel goods, grab Dean and Courtney's story!

Gambling With Love by Kaye Spencer

Luck is most definitely a lady when Lainie Conrad walks up to the gaming tables. And what a presence she is! If I was blessed with the gift of knowing how to play cards, I'd hope I would even become a quarter of the lady gambler she was - in everything she did. Nick was a gonner for her from day one, and seeing his struggle with trying to love and protect a very head-strong woman was a hoot. He's definitely up for the challenge of having his hands full with her!

Besides the expected bit of sparks between a US Marshall and a maybe-maybe-not-criminal lady gambler, I wasn't prepared for what this story brought to light -- from intrigue and mystery to comic relief, from suspense to spicy heat waves, this little tale packs a punch in its derringer.

If you're looking for a short story to consume in one sitting, but want one with something to keep you guessing and at the edge of your seat, this is it!

A Restless Knight by Deborah Macgillivray

*closes the book and feels rudely jerked back to the 21st century.*
Whew!! What a trip!! After a few moments to let go of reality and immerse myself in the Scotland highlands of the late 1200s, I also became a captive of the Dragon of Challon and didn't want to escape my captor. haha!

I loved how Deborah Macgillivray painted the world around me with her words - it was almost like standing there and watching the words grow and bloom a new reality all around me -- I could sense the heather and apple blossoms, see the waves of flowing grass, hear the startling cry from the crows, feel the cool misty fog enveloping around me... then add in the emotions of the characters and I was enraptured! Toss in the smallest touch of mystic and a knight who's armor is not shining because he knows how to use it, and I'm enchanted.

Tamlyn charmed my heart with how strong and brave and defiant she was, but at the same time, she held a regal vulnerability, a softness, a gentleness to her. I loved being in her head as she encountered Julian and fell for her man. She truly was the perfect compliment to him, giving him the peace and calm and healing he so desperately needed.

Julian - the Black Dragon of Challon - his intensity, power, loyalty, determination, and protectiveness, along with his scary roughness, physical strength, and mental fortitude, overflowed from the pages into reality, gifting me with my favorite kind of hero - just with a sword and armor. Oh, and the way he shows his love and affection and devotion to Tamlyn? Watching it grow from an interesting challenge to intense love made me swoon over and over again. And feeling his arms wrap around me..... er.. Tamlyn? I'll take more of that, please. (so will she, I'm sure!)

This felt like the perfect never-ending story (said with much love and appreciation) - there was so much to Tamlyn and Julian's story that it could keep going on and on... and in fact, I still found myself wanting more. Hopefully in future books in this series we'll get to keep tabs on the couple. I also enjoyed how some famous historic characters were weaved into the story, making this feel as it was a true piece of history, and not simply a tale to while away a winter storm.

If you're a fan of epic and beautiful medieval tales, this is one that'll sweep you away!

Unquenchable Cravings: Gamble on Love by Natasza Waters

I first met Natasza Waters' characters through her Warriors Challenge series. In one of the books, Stephen and Moira play a part. I loved getting to see how they connected.

This is a sweet (and spicy) story of how Moira learns to trust and love and Stephen learns patience and forgiveness. There were so many awesomely fun and hot scenes (sushi anyone?), along with several twists and excitement I wasn't expecting. Definitely enjoyed my time in Vegas and CA with Stephen and his woman.

Securing Brenae by Susan Stoker

Eek!! Loved it!!

Give me a devoted married older couple who still love each other whole heartedly and show it and still wanna rip each other's clothes off! Yes, please!

With Brenae's strength and tender heart and Dag's protective streak and adoration, these two provided a great little escape.

This is one of my favorite RMR audio books. Hopefully we'll see more romantic suspense type stories in the future!