Oh my, all the emotions that this story brings forward just nearly burst my heart and it was impossible not to make a commitment in my mind to do anything I can, to work to better the world that awaits veterans when they arrive back home after their service.
But have no fear, this story is not filled with angst and turmoil, even though both of those emotions are involved. But the author has managed to intertwine joy and humor in a subtle way even to the direst scenes where your heart is aching to the characters, you have tears in your eyes, yet you are smiling because, in midst of it all, there's pride, bliss, and wonder of life.
Bree Mathews comes through a transformation that can only be admired. Though she is completely out of her element and comfort zone, she makes the best of it, is open to the changes in her and around her, and flourish as the story unfolds. Yes, it took a little push from her new friends to get her towards the right direction, but resistance was minimal, and the whining just token.
Cole Caldwell really won my heart. With his broken soul, he still tries so hard to fit into the old life, he tries to find the peace of his mind, yet the PTSD is making a havoc and no matter what he tries, there's no stopping it, there's no calm in his mind.
I loved the unity and support of the military brothers, as well as Cole's family and friends. The PTSD affected all their lives, and they were all willing to make the sacrifices it would take for Cole to get better.
The connection between Cole and Bree was tangible. I laughed with them at their banter and play, I swooned from the intense passion their shared, I was in tears from the torment and hurt they had to go through, and I cheered for them to find their 'home', their place in the world, their peace of mind, and ability to move on with life.
I love it when a book takes you on a journey you were not expecting. When it takes you into the dark, deep, muddy waters where you have to stop and take a breath. Where it makes you want to stand up and make a difference. This story is definitely worth losing some sleep over, the impact it made on me will carry on and will make me take action. I adore books that influence or challenge my view of the world and this one surely accomplished just that. To be read with an open mind and heart to let the message register...
~ Five Spoons

This story would have been a five star read if there had been more about her stalker. If he had gotten close, or sent her threatening messages to her hide-out. Instead, as far as the stalker aspect goes, he was there in the background, and then he was caught. It was very anti-climatic in that respect.

However the "slow burn" romance between Cole and Bree definitely made up for it! I loved they way they would fight at every turn, not only fighting with each other, but fighting the chemistry between them as well. I found both of these characters to be more complex than they seemed on the surface. The fact that Cole has Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder isn't a new thing to stories, however I felt the author had a completely realistic take on it. Most people over look how even the simplest things (a thunderstorm for example) can affect a Veteran. I also enjoyed the way she gave Bree a backbone. This girl wasn't just a pretty face, she had a strong worth ethic, and refused to back down from a challenge.

Overall, I am sure this story will appeal to those who enjoy slow burn romance novels with complex characters. I would read more from this author.

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.