It’s been a long time since I’ve read a good military romance. Defenseless reminded me how much I enjoy the sub-genre.
Mark, a former SEAL tur4.5 stars
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a good military romance. Defenseless reminded me how much I enjoy the sub-genre.
Mark, a former SEAL turned independent contractor, and Charlie, a CIA undercover operative, meet during a mission. Mark is a cocky, irritating but loveable smartass, and Charlie is stubborn, secretive, and feisty. There’s instant attraction on Mark’s part, but definitely no Insta-love between the two. Together they are oil and water, which makes for some delectable chemistry. Charlie and Mark bicker constantly, and he’s quick to call her out on her crap, but it’s highly endearing and flat-out funny. There’s a lack of unnecessary relationship drama—which I really appreciated—and just the right amount of sexiness.
The first couple chapters seem bogged down by the number of characters and how each player relates to each other. Further confusing matters, Mark’s friends are sometimes referred to by their given names and nicknames interchangeably in the same scene. Natalie, Lee, Sparkles—I thought they were three separate characters, but no. It’s one lady. Once I got over that initial hump, it was fairly smooth sailing.
The intricacies of their dual mission were sometimes lost on me, and I confess I wasn’t overly interested in the investigation. However, the plot is primarily character-driven, and we’re given a fun cast of characters to enjoy.
This book has a little bit of everything: intrigue, action, bad guys, suspense, humor, and romance. Corrine Michaels cleverly ends each chapter on a mini-cliffhanger, daring the reader to put the book down. Defenseless is a delightful standalone novel.
Recommended for fans of: Cindy Gerard Military romance Badass heroines Sarcastic heroes
** ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. **
I don’t care how long you’ve been a couple before you make it official; marriage is not easy. It takes a lot of hard work whether you’ve been married I don’t care how long you’ve been a couple before you make it official; marriage is not easy. It takes a lot of hard work whether you’ve been married two years or twenty years. It’s far too rare to find romance novels with main characters in their thirties and forties. As an older reader, I’m so grateful that Penny Reid penned a humorous yet thoughtful story featuring a mature married couple dealing with real life issues.
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Happily Ever Ninja continues the story of Fiona and Greg. Their history is covered in the prequel, Ninja at First Sight, which is available for free download, but it is also included as Part 1 of this book. Fiona and Greg have been married for 14 years. While they are still very much in love, Fiona finds herself overwhelmed by everyday problems to which anyone who is married with kids can relate— juggling work and family, domestic responsibilities, financial concerns—all the while trying to maintain a passionate connection as husband and wife. It can cause stress in the best relationships. How Fiona and Greg deal with these complications is the main focus of the story.
I loved him and I always would. But that was the easy part. Working to deserve him and demanding that he work to deserve me, everyday—that was hard.
Greg is just as irreverent and loving as ever. He’s extremely protective of Fiona, almost to her detriment. Fiona is admirably strong, but she’s a people pleaser who nurtures others to the point of sacrificing her own needs. The drama created by their shortcomings and lack of communication frustrated me at times. However, the issues are completely authentic, and the tension is well balanced by an abundance of humor.
Ninja Ever After is a difficult book to categorize. It’s part romantic comedy, part drama, part action, and altogether engrossing and uplifting. I couldn’t put it down. Each chapter begins with notes and letters written by actual couples. Some are delightfully funny; most are romantic and poignant. It’s a nice touch that struck a chord with me. Penny Reid has a winner on her hands with an enchanting, heartfelt story of enduring love.
** ARC received in exchange for an honest review. **