What do you think?
Rate this book
Always a Marine #10
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
Have you ever woken up every day afraid of everything?
For single mom and widow Melody Carter, six months passed since an IED ripped her life apart. Everyone is sympathetic and offers platitudes of comfort and support. Everyone thinks they know why she’s grieving but Melody isn’t mourning her broken heart. She’s ashamed to be grateful her abusive husband won’t hurt her anymore and scared for her child. Born with a mild heart defect, her daughter needs lifesaving surgery and with her funds tight and her emotional scars tighter, she’s running out of options. When she receives an offer for assistance from Mike’s Place, can Melody put her faith in the men her husband called friend?
Have you ever woken up, day after day, to discover your body’s betrayal?
Marine Captain, Joe Anderson Cooper, received the Silver Star for Valor when he led his unit through heavy fire to rescue fellow Marines. Despite numerous injuries, the Captain refused medical aid, insisting that the medics attend others. A broken back and shattered bones put Captain Cooper in a wheelchair and every day is a battle to keep his recovery on track and his sanity intact. When a single mom moves in to the apartment next door to his and he recognizes a kindred—damaged—soul, can he overcome her fear and be the man she’s always needed?
Can these two lonely souls rise to the challenge or will their scars trap them forever?
For single mom and widow Melody Carter, six months passed since an IED ripped her life apart. Everyone is sympathetic and offers platitudes of comfort and support. Everyone thinks they know why she’s grieving but Melody isn’t mourning her broken heart. She’s ashamed to be grateful her abusive husband won’t hurt her anymore and scared for her child. Born with a mild heart defect, her daughter needs lifesaving surgery and with her funds tight and her emotional scars tighter, she’s running out of options. When she receives an offer for assistance from Mike’s Place, can Melody put her faith in the men her husband called friend?
Have you ever woken up, day after day, to discover your body’s betrayal?
Marine Captain, Joe Anderson Cooper, received the Silver Star for Valor when he led his unit through heavy fire to rescue fellow Marines. Despite numerous injuries, the Captain refused medical aid, insisting that the medics attend others. A broken back and shattered bones put Captain Cooper in a wheelchair and every day is a battle to keep his recovery on track and his sanity intact. When a single mom moves in to the apartment next door to his and he recognizes a kindred—damaged—soul, can he overcome her fear and be the man she’s always needed?
Can these two lonely souls rise to the challenge or will their scars trap them forever?
90 pages, ebook
First published January 6, 2013
2 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
About the author
Heather Long
247 books2,259 followersI love books. Not just a little bit, but a lot. Books were my best friends when I was growing up. Books didn’t care if I was new to a town or to a class. They were always there, my trustiest of companions. Until they turned on me and said I had to write them.
I can tell you that my own personal happily ever after included writing books. I’ve always said that an HEA is a work in progress. It’s true in my marriage, my friendships, and in my career. I am constantly nurturing my muse as we dive into new tales, new tropes, new characters and more.
After seventeen years back in Texas, we relocated to the Pacific Northwest in search of seasons, new experiences, and new geography. I can’t wait to discover what life (and my muse) have in store for me.
Maybe writing was always my destiny and romance my fate. After all, my grandmother wasn’t a fan of picture books and used to read me her Harlequin Romance novels.
Friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, friends to enemies to lovers, you name it, I love them and love to write them. I started with Earth Witches Aren’t Easy, the first in the Chance Monroe trilogy, but my characters and I have traveled a long way since I created that urban fantasy world.
One of the series I hear my readers recommend the most is the Untouchable series followed in quick succession by the Vandals, and that just delights me. No lie, whenever one of my readers brings up my wolves, I do a little a fist pump.
I’m active on social media, and I love hearing from readers. Feel free to tag me with a question about any of my books, or just say hi!
I can tell you that my own personal happily ever after included writing books. I’ve always said that an HEA is a work in progress. It’s true in my marriage, my friendships, and in my career. I am constantly nurturing my muse as we dive into new tales, new tropes, new characters and more.
After seventeen years back in Texas, we relocated to the Pacific Northwest in search of seasons, new experiences, and new geography. I can’t wait to discover what life (and my muse) have in store for me.
Maybe writing was always my destiny and romance my fate. After all, my grandmother wasn’t a fan of picture books and used to read me her Harlequin Romance novels.
Friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, friends to enemies to lovers, you name it, I love them and love to write them. I started with Earth Witches Aren’t Easy, the first in the Chance Monroe trilogy, but my characters and I have traveled a long way since I created that urban fantasy world.
One of the series I hear my readers recommend the most is the Untouchable series followed in quick succession by the Vandals, and that just delights me. No lie, whenever one of my readers brings up my wolves, I do a little a fist pump.
I’m active on social media, and I love hearing from readers. Feel free to tag me with a question about any of my books, or just say hi!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 30, 2020
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot by Heather Long
Always a Marine #10. Military romance novella. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Widow Melody Carson is afraid of a lot of things, her neighbor included. But he proves to be a nice man who instinctively understands she has been abused in the past. He struggles with his own anger issues from the military and his disability but treats Melody with care, support and family. As the story progresses, they help each other to heal and look to the future.
This book had a bit of depth in understanding the difficulty of being in a wheelchair as well as former military.
Always a Marine #10. Military romance novella. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Widow Melody Carson is afraid of a lot of things, her neighbor included. But he proves to be a nice man who instinctively understands she has been abused in the past. He struggles with his own anger issues from the military and his disability but treats Melody with care, support and family. As the story progresses, they help each other to heal and look to the future.
This book had a bit of depth in understanding the difficulty of being in a wheelchair as well as former military.
July 19, 2013
I've been wanting to read Heather Long for a while now so when the opportunity to review this came up I jumped at it. When I received the PDF, I had it converted for my kindle and in the process discovered that I had apparently downloaded for free a Christmas story she wrote in the Always a Marine series. I read it then this one and decided that I like her writing style and that she needs a better copy editor. For such short stories, there was a high level of mistakes. Additionally, the hero in this book has an ever changing surname.
When Joe meets Melody, he introduces himself as Joe Cooper, Captain Joe Cooper, and several times refers to himself in his thoughts as Coop. Then, later, when he and Melody are on the hospital shuttle, he is called Captain Anderson several times. Towards the end of the book he is suddenly Joe Cooper Anderson. It was confusing and annoying. The other problems were incorrect grammar and punctuation, and typos. I can understand a few that are missed but for the length of the piece, there were too many.
Now, the story; I liked it. It's a sweet and romantic story with a happy ending. Long does an excellent job showing us Melody's fear of men, of anyone really, and the lingering effects of abuse. Melody is a devoted mother, and a terrified mother. Her daughter's health is failing and the surgery may not work. After years of abuse, she's scared to reach out to others and she's been isolated from her family. She's relieved that her husband is dead and feels like a fraud for accepting help for her daughter. I did think she recovered a bit too quickly but recovery is so individual that's it not impossible for it to happen so fast. I'd have liked to see some mention towards the end of whether or not she had reconnected with her family but that's a nitpick. :)
Joe is practically perfect, as Melody herself says several times: patient, understanding, always willing to help, never pushes her, etc. But Long also shows us his thoughts so we know that it's not always easy for him and he sometimes has to make an effort to control himself and of course, we see his bitterness over his injuries. Despite his near perfection, he feels real, and so does his family. His mother is overbearing, a pushy broad as my dad would say, but wonderful.
Events moved a little too fast for my own preferences, especially towards the end, but "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot" is a wonderful love story of hope and faith. Joe and Melody are people I'd like to have as friends.
I received a PDF from Full Moon Bites Promos for an honest review.
When Joe meets Melody, he introduces himself as Joe Cooper, Captain Joe Cooper, and several times refers to himself in his thoughts as Coop. Then, later, when he and Melody are on the hospital shuttle, he is called Captain Anderson several times. Towards the end of the book he is suddenly Joe Cooper Anderson. It was confusing and annoying. The other problems were incorrect grammar and punctuation, and typos. I can understand a few that are missed but for the length of the piece, there were too many.
Now, the story; I liked it. It's a sweet and romantic story with a happy ending. Long does an excellent job showing us Melody's fear of men, of anyone really, and the lingering effects of abuse. Melody is a devoted mother, and a terrified mother. Her daughter's health is failing and the surgery may not work. After years of abuse, she's scared to reach out to others and she's been isolated from her family. She's relieved that her husband is dead and feels like a fraud for accepting help for her daughter. I did think she recovered a bit too quickly but recovery is so individual that's it not impossible for it to happen so fast. I'd have liked to see some mention towards the end of whether or not she had reconnected with her family but that's a nitpick. :)
Joe is practically perfect, as Melody herself says several times: patient, understanding, always willing to help, never pushes her, etc. But Long also shows us his thoughts so we know that it's not always easy for him and he sometimes has to make an effort to control himself and of course, we see his bitterness over his injuries. Despite his near perfection, he feels real, and so does his family. His mother is overbearing, a pushy broad as my dad would say, but wonderful.
Events moved a little too fast for my own preferences, especially towards the end, but "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot" is a wonderful love story of hope and faith. Joe and Melody are people I'd like to have as friends.
I received a PDF from Full Moon Bites Promos for an honest review.
January 16, 2013
See this review and more at www.tattooedbookreview.com
This story of a Marine meeting a nearly broken woman, helping her to heal and move on from her past, and ultimately finding love with her hit incredibly close to home for me.
It is beautifully written and deeply emotional, with characters that demand the reader’s devoted attention. Melody’s story is absolutely heart-breaking, but the author gives her such strength, even in her devastating vulnerability. She clings to the edge, finding hope in small places. When Joe comes in to her life, she sees someone who finally may catch her if she can’t hold on any longer. Joe is the perfect leading man, strong, supportive, handsome, and kind.
I was completely captivated by Melody and Joe’s story. It is devastating, touching, and heart-warming; two people finding light in complete darkness. I loved that that they took the necessary time to heal themselves before coming together as a couple. I cried more than a few tears for these characters and rejoiced at their eventual happy ending. I absolutely love this book.
*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This story of a Marine meeting a nearly broken woman, helping her to heal and move on from her past, and ultimately finding love with her hit incredibly close to home for me.
It is beautifully written and deeply emotional, with characters that demand the reader’s devoted attention. Melody’s story is absolutely heart-breaking, but the author gives her such strength, even in her devastating vulnerability. She clings to the edge, finding hope in small places. When Joe comes in to her life, she sees someone who finally may catch her if she can’t hold on any longer. Joe is the perfect leading man, strong, supportive, handsome, and kind.
I was completely captivated by Melody and Joe’s story. It is devastating, touching, and heart-warming; two people finding light in complete darkness. I loved that that they took the necessary time to heal themselves before coming together as a couple. I cried more than a few tears for these characters and rejoiced at their eventual happy ending. I absolutely love this book.
*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 5, 2013
It is hard not to find yourself going “ahhh” when reading this one. I loved that it is hard to remember that Joe was in a wheelchair or that he was recovering from a big injury. He never let that hold him back and in fact used it to his benefit when he first met Melody. He was so sweet with Melody, treating her like a skittish animal, which was what she needed. I really loved how Joe’s mother showed up and gave Melody a stern talking to, one that she needed to hear and in a way that hit home. I really loved that even though Joe could lose Melody he introduced her to people that could help her for the long run. Due to that, I loved the ending, loved that Joe got what he wanted in the end.
February 23, 2013
Asher's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Review
5 Stars
Captain Joe Cooper has been told he won’t ever walk again, well as far as he’s concerned the doctors can take that diagnosis and shove it. He’s a Marine and Marines don’t retreat. Then one evening he’s playing a game and hears the neighbors baby once again, something he’d been hearing an awful lot. Wondering what was going on, he rolls on over to find out and is greeted by a timid, tired yet brave Mrs. Melody Carter and her young daughter Libby. He instantly feels the need to sooth her and let her know that he’s available to help should she need it, after all a guy in a wheel chair isn’t a threat.
Melody Carter is exhausted, both emotionally and physically. Her husband died serving their country so she should be grieving and heartsick that he’s gone….right? Not Melody. She’s relieved that he’s gone, relieved that he won’t be coming home to hurt her or their daughter. But now because of her daughters delicate condition she’s been pushed to the point of exhaustion and is on the brink of collapse, then her neighbor wheels into her life…..
I loved this book from the moment I read the little excerpt, and the book didn’t disappoint in the least! I’ve always been a sucker for a good military guy, something about a guy in uniform. (Yum) But this story was a bit more than just a really awesome guy in dress blues. This story hit a few hardcore issues that many of our veterans, female and male, deal with. As well as their spouses and families. Yeah some of our guys and girls aren’t the greatest, but there is always help available if you’re willing to reach out and ask.
Then there is the added factor of the single mom struggling to do right by her child, my own mom was a single parent for most of my life so I can relate in part to that. I am in awe of those parents that deal with the single parent troubles everyday. I know I couldn’t do it, so kudo’s to them.
All in all this book was a very touching, heart wrenching read, but I absolutely LOVED it. I’ll definitely be picking up more books by this fabulous author.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
5 Stars
Captain Joe Cooper has been told he won’t ever walk again, well as far as he’s concerned the doctors can take that diagnosis and shove it. He’s a Marine and Marines don’t retreat. Then one evening he’s playing a game and hears the neighbors baby once again, something he’d been hearing an awful lot. Wondering what was going on, he rolls on over to find out and is greeted by a timid, tired yet brave Mrs. Melody Carter and her young daughter Libby. He instantly feels the need to sooth her and let her know that he’s available to help should she need it, after all a guy in a wheel chair isn’t a threat.
Melody Carter is exhausted, both emotionally and physically. Her husband died serving their country so she should be grieving and heartsick that he’s gone….right? Not Melody. She’s relieved that he’s gone, relieved that he won’t be coming home to hurt her or their daughter. But now because of her daughters delicate condition she’s been pushed to the point of exhaustion and is on the brink of collapse, then her neighbor wheels into her life…..
I loved this book from the moment I read the little excerpt, and the book didn’t disappoint in the least! I’ve always been a sucker for a good military guy, something about a guy in uniform. (Yum) But this story was a bit more than just a really awesome guy in dress blues. This story hit a few hardcore issues that many of our veterans, female and male, deal with. As well as their spouses and families. Yeah some of our guys and girls aren’t the greatest, but there is always help available if you’re willing to reach out and ask.
Then there is the added factor of the single mom struggling to do right by her child, my own mom was a single parent for most of my life so I can relate in part to that. I am in awe of those parents that deal with the single parent troubles everyday. I know I couldn’t do it, so kudo’s to them.
All in all this book was a very touching, heart wrenching read, but I absolutely LOVED it. I’ll definitely be picking up more books by this fabulous author.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
January 12, 2015
This one was so endearing and broke my heart a little with its portrayal of a fragile, abused woman with her baby girl diagnosed as failure to thrive and the injured Marine who fell in love with the fire he saw still burning within her.
Melody feels tired, guilty, scared and all in all just one big hot mess when she comes to Mike's Place for her little girl. Her abusive Marine husband has been killed in the line of duty and all she can feel is relief which makes her feel guilty. Her baby girl born after the death of her husband has a heart condition that needs constant monitoring. And Melody gets twitchy any time she has to deal with a man particularly big, burly Marine or soldier types so it is with great surprise that she feels differently toward her neighbor, Captain Joe Carter who is recovering from extensive injuries.
Joe hasn't been in the best of moods during his recovery as he is forced to wait things out, but he suddenly realizes things could be a lot worse when he becomes aware of his pretty neighbor who is running on vapors and terrified of her own shadow. He recognizes the signs and suspects the truth. He wants to gentle her and gain her trust, he wants to protect her and her baby, but most of all he just wants her. He's never felt this way about a woman before and he suspects that she is possibly too broken to ever want him back. But with a little of Momma Carter's tough and vigorous TLC and the people at Mike's Place maybe something special can happen.
This story just kept hitting my emotions hard. I loved Joe and wanted to wrap Melody up for a hug. At first, I wanted to absolutely hate her husband, but yet I ended up pitying him too in the end- not that I think it is ever right or excusable to abuse someone. He was a casualty of war in more ways than one as was Melody and Joe. I really liked the attention to pacing with the tone and the development of this story. It is short, but it is by no means insta-anything.
Just another wonderful addition to a really good series of mostly standalone Marine romances.
Melody feels tired, guilty, scared and all in all just one big hot mess when she comes to Mike's Place for her little girl. Her abusive Marine husband has been killed in the line of duty and all she can feel is relief which makes her feel guilty. Her baby girl born after the death of her husband has a heart condition that needs constant monitoring. And Melody gets twitchy any time she has to deal with a man particularly big, burly Marine or soldier types so it is with great surprise that she feels differently toward her neighbor, Captain Joe Carter who is recovering from extensive injuries.
Joe hasn't been in the best of moods during his recovery as he is forced to wait things out, but he suddenly realizes things could be a lot worse when he becomes aware of his pretty neighbor who is running on vapors and terrified of her own shadow. He recognizes the signs and suspects the truth. He wants to gentle her and gain her trust, he wants to protect her and her baby, but most of all he just wants her. He's never felt this way about a woman before and he suspects that she is possibly too broken to ever want him back. But with a little of Momma Carter's tough and vigorous TLC and the people at Mike's Place maybe something special can happen.
This story just kept hitting my emotions hard. I loved Joe and wanted to wrap Melody up for a hug. At first, I wanted to absolutely hate her husband, but yet I ended up pitying him too in the end- not that I think it is ever right or excusable to abuse someone. He was a casualty of war in more ways than one as was Melody and Joe. I really liked the attention to pacing with the tone and the development of this story. It is short, but it is by no means insta-anything.
Just another wonderful addition to a really good series of mostly standalone Marine romances.
May 20, 2013
Widowed single mother Melody is exhausted, stressed and worried about her young daughter, who is very ill. When a neighbour stops by to check on her and make sure everything was okay. Things aren’t easy for Melody, her daughter needs surgery to save her life, funds are tight, she’s an emotional wreck and is running on empty.
Joe meets his next door neighbour Melody after hearing her daughter crying. He needed to make sure that they were okay and found a beautiful young woman who is clearly exhausted and in need of help. They run into one another again on route to the hospital – Joe for an appointment for his situation and Melody for an appointment to check on things with her daughter. Joe notices something is off with Melody, and decides he needs to dig deeper to find out more.
These two characters have a great connection, but have a great deal of issues to work through – both emotional and physical. Despite the fact that this was a novella, the author jam packed lot into a short span of time. Within the 90 or so pages we see Melody blossom and her relationship with Joe grow from neighbour to more.
Would I recommend this book? This is probably my favourite of Heather’s stories so far. It’s filled with so much emotion and turmoil. I just adored it. Would I read more by this author? Most definitely! I can’t wait to pick up more.
Joe meets his next door neighbour Melody after hearing her daughter crying. He needed to make sure that they were okay and found a beautiful young woman who is clearly exhausted and in need of help. They run into one another again on route to the hospital – Joe for an appointment for his situation and Melody for an appointment to check on things with her daughter. Joe notices something is off with Melody, and decides he needs to dig deeper to find out more.
These two characters have a great connection, but have a great deal of issues to work through – both emotional and physical. Despite the fact that this was a novella, the author jam packed lot into a short span of time. Within the 90 or so pages we see Melody blossom and her relationship with Joe grow from neighbour to more.
Would I recommend this book? This is probably my favourite of Heather’s stories so far. It’s filled with so much emotion and turmoil. I just adored it. Would I read more by this author? Most definitely! I can’t wait to pick up more.
April 22, 2013
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is #10 in the Always a Marine series by Heather Long, it is a stand alone novella/short novel and can be read as such.
Heather Long once again shows why she is the queen of the Marine romance genre with a deeply moving story about two people who are battered but not broken, one physically and one emotionally. Joe is what you dream about when you fantasize about a Marine, he is handsome, honorable, funny, kind to his mother and siblings, good with children and sexy as sin. Melody may have taken some damage during an abusive marriage but she is still a fighter and an extremely devoted mother.
I think that Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is my favorite Always a Marine book yet. It may be the tamest when it comes to the heat factor with only one intense sex scene but the story is so amazingly well done that I just wanted to put my arms around both Joe and Melody and hug them, I felt connected to them on that level.
Once again Ms. Long shows that she is able to give you a well written and emotionally compelling story in a short novel/novella length book. I look forward to many Marine stories in the future, oorah!
I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
Heather Long once again shows why she is the queen of the Marine romance genre with a deeply moving story about two people who are battered but not broken, one physically and one emotionally. Joe is what you dream about when you fantasize about a Marine, he is handsome, honorable, funny, kind to his mother and siblings, good with children and sexy as sin. Melody may have taken some damage during an abusive marriage but she is still a fighter and an extremely devoted mother.
I think that Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is my favorite Always a Marine book yet. It may be the tamest when it comes to the heat factor with only one intense sex scene but the story is so amazingly well done that I just wanted to put my arms around both Joe and Melody and hug them, I felt connected to them on that level.
Once again Ms. Long shows that she is able to give you a well written and emotionally compelling story in a short novel/novella length book. I look forward to many Marine stories in the future, oorah!
I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 9, 2013
WOW! I just finished reading this gem of a story. I admittedly am addicted to the Always a Marine series, I have no shame in gushing about this series. This story, much like the others, was such a blessing to read.
I love that Heather Long is not afraid to discuss topics that many people want to ignore. DV is a topic that people would rather not talk about or have such strong feelings about, it makes it one that people would rather avoid. As a survivor of a DV relationship, I will say whole heartedly, that this story is respectful about what the survivor (or victim as many would call it) goes through.
Melody is a strong woman that had to pick up the pieces after he abusive husband died during combat. She also has to raise Libby, her daughter, that was born with a heart defect alone.
Joe is Melody's neighbor who was injured during combat and is at Mike's place recovering.
What happens when Joe hears Libby crying one day and knocks on the door? GREATNESS that is what!!!
Updated Review HERE
I love that Heather Long is not afraid to discuss topics that many people want to ignore. DV is a topic that people would rather not talk about or have such strong feelings about, it makes it one that people would rather avoid. As a survivor of a DV relationship, I will say whole heartedly, that this story is respectful about what the survivor (or victim as many would call it) goes through.
Melody is a strong woman that had to pick up the pieces after he abusive husband died during combat. She also has to raise Libby, her daughter, that was born with a heart defect alone.
Joe is Melody's neighbor who was injured during combat and is at Mike's place recovering.
What happens when Joe hears Libby crying one day and knocks on the door? GREATNESS that is what!!!
Updated Review HERE
February 4, 2013
What a fantastic read!! Ladies do not go into this one looking for steam! It is not that kind of read...until the end!! This is a touching story of two wounded people finding each other and addressing a need in each other. I like that they do not rush into anything. They feel the whole love at first sight but do not skip the meaningful getting to know you stuff! It is a nice short read, novella length, but I would not have minded a longer read with more of their story.
Nice steam at the end but that isn't really what this tale was about. A very nice addition to the Always a Marine series. A step away from the 1Night stand format of some of the other books in the series!
When is Matt going to get his love story!! I am so impatient!!
Cover Art - Sweet and sexy!! Draws you into this interracial romance!
Nice steam at the end but that isn't really what this tale was about. A very nice addition to the Always a Marine series. A step away from the 1Night stand format of some of the other books in the series!
When is Matt going to get his love story!! I am so impatient!!
Cover Art - Sweet and sexy!! Draws you into this interracial romance!
March 19, 2018
Another very tough subject handled gently, carefully and truthfully!
January 2, 2021
Whiskey Tango Foxtro
I did not enjoy listening to this book. The main actors were dull narration was phony.
The writing needed to be better.
I did not enjoy listening to this book. The main actors were dull narration was phony.
The writing needed to be better.
August 7, 2020
These are small reads which usually have very rich sex scenes. However, this one is mainly based upon two hurting people who need to heal and found each other. There is a sex scene but not overly done and it helps with the storyline.
January 16, 2014
Sarah's Review:
This story is slightly different in that Madame Eve and her 1NS service is not associated with it. This story is still part of the Always a Marine series but it is also part of the Challenge series. Heather Long tells a great story with this one but one that needs to be told. She addresses a topic that is sensitive, but she does it with class. Mike's Place is vital to the this story as well.
I am struggling to write this review because there is so much I want to say. This story brings a wounded soldier (Joe), a wounded widow (Melody) and a crying baby (Libby) together by the coincidence of being neighbors. Below is part of my review on Goodreads from when I first read this story back in January.
I love that Heather Long is not afraid to discuss topics that many people want to ignore. DV is a topic that people would rather not talk about or have such strong feelings about, it makes it one that people would rather avoid. As a survivor of a DV relationship, I will say whole heartedly, that this story is respectful about what the survivor (or victim as many would call it) goes through.
Melody is a strong woman that had to pick up the pieces after he abusive husband died during combat. She also has to raise Libby, her daughter, that was born with a heart defect alone. She has no family with her a Mike's Place that can be there for her. When she married Tuck, her now deceased Marine husband, she went against her parents. She is cautious and skittish around guys that could be seen as intimidating.
Joe is Melody's neighbor who was injured during combat and is at Mike's place recovering. One evening he hears Libby crying and decides to see if he can offer assistance. He had not seen much of Melody or Libby, but he had heard Libby crying for several nights. When he knocks on the door and Melody finally opens it, Joe is able to recognize some signs that she had been hurt but wasn't sure by who. The next morning he crosses paths with Melody and Libby again on the way to the shuttle. During their interactions that morning, Joe is able to pick up on more signs that something horrible had happened to her. After his group session, he talks to James, the beloved psychologist of Mike's Place, and tries to find out if Melody was still on campus.
We also meet Meredith, Joe's mother, who Melody describes as a velvet tank. Meredith was able to help Melody realize that she needed to get better for herself and Libby, then worry about if she was good enough for Joe. Melody said that Joe knew what he wanted and he wasn't going to push Melody for more than she could handle.
At the end, we see 6 months in the future and see the changes that Joe and Melody both experienced. Libby was with Meredith, so we didn't get to see her, but Joe had given us some of the updates that he had been given from Melody.
I hope that Heather will give us a look into their future soon. I would love to see how Libby is doing ad how Joe and Melody are doing as well.
This story is slightly different in that Madame Eve and her 1NS service is not associated with it. This story is still part of the Always a Marine series but it is also part of the Challenge series. Heather Long tells a great story with this one but one that needs to be told. She addresses a topic that is sensitive, but she does it with class. Mike's Place is vital to the this story as well.
I am struggling to write this review because there is so much I want to say. This story brings a wounded soldier (Joe), a wounded widow (Melody) and a crying baby (Libby) together by the coincidence of being neighbors. Below is part of my review on Goodreads from when I first read this story back in January.
I love that Heather Long is not afraid to discuss topics that many people want to ignore. DV is a topic that people would rather not talk about or have such strong feelings about, it makes it one that people would rather avoid. As a survivor of a DV relationship, I will say whole heartedly, that this story is respectful about what the survivor (or victim as many would call it) goes through.
Melody is a strong woman that had to pick up the pieces after he abusive husband died during combat. She also has to raise Libby, her daughter, that was born with a heart defect alone. She has no family with her a Mike's Place that can be there for her. When she married Tuck, her now deceased Marine husband, she went against her parents. She is cautious and skittish around guys that could be seen as intimidating.
Joe is Melody's neighbor who was injured during combat and is at Mike's place recovering. One evening he hears Libby crying and decides to see if he can offer assistance. He had not seen much of Melody or Libby, but he had heard Libby crying for several nights. When he knocks on the door and Melody finally opens it, Joe is able to recognize some signs that she had been hurt but wasn't sure by who. The next morning he crosses paths with Melody and Libby again on the way to the shuttle. During their interactions that morning, Joe is able to pick up on more signs that something horrible had happened to her. After his group session, he talks to James, the beloved psychologist of Mike's Place, and tries to find out if Melody was still on campus.
We also meet Meredith, Joe's mother, who Melody describes as a velvet tank. Meredith was able to help Melody realize that she needed to get better for herself and Libby, then worry about if she was good enough for Joe. Melody said that Joe knew what he wanted and he wasn't going to push Melody for more than she could handle.
At the end, we see 6 months in the future and see the changes that Joe and Melody both experienced. Libby was with Meredith, so we didn't get to see her, but Joe had given us some of the updates that he had been given from Melody.
I hope that Heather will give us a look into their future soon. I would love to see how Libby is doing ad how Joe and Melody are doing as well.
March 5, 2013
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
When life seems to be at its lowest, opportunity can present itself in the most unexpected ways.
Captain Joe Cooper is a true Marine hero. Injured while attempting to save other members of his unit under attack, he is relegated to a wheel chair until his back and leg have the chance to heal. Though he hates the idea of the chair, it’s literally the vehicle that brings his true love into his life.
Melody Carter is a Marine widow struggling with a sickly baby. Alone in every respect, she is exhausted from carrying the burden of the emotional and physical efforts since her husband’s death-and before. When Joe offered his help, her initial reaction was fear, but the combination of his wheelchair and her gut instinct told her he was trustworthy, and she allowed herself to finally lean on someone.
This is a beautiful story of love and redemption. Each character has suffered through their own trials and tribulations, but has persevered and eventually found a match in the other. I love that most of the story is told from Joe’s point of view, since most romance novels focus predominantly on the woman. We do, however, get a good deal of Melody’s viewpoint, so it’s easy to connect to each of them.
Joe had my heart from the start; a man battling back from injury and determined not to give up. Melody is an outstanding character as well; despite being battered and put down, she refuses to submit and is resigned to doing whatever it takes to care for her ill child. We even get to meet Joe’s mom, who is a woman we’d all be lucky to have in our lives-smart, strong and nurturing.
I do wish we had a little more time with the two once their relationship grew, but considering their emotional states, it really was for the best they waited. The slow build up between these two was perfect and natural. Since both were dealing with their share of challenges, it was wonderful to see that neither looked to the other to “fix” things. They first developed a beautiful friendship, although the attraction and love was brewing under the surface.
Those familiar with the rest of Ms. Long’s Always a Marine series will recognize some other familiar names in the course of the story, and it’s fun to see how they can all interact. This book is great not only for the fans of Ms. Long, but for anyone looking for true friendship and love.
When life seems to be at its lowest, opportunity can present itself in the most unexpected ways.
Captain Joe Cooper is a true Marine hero. Injured while attempting to save other members of his unit under attack, he is relegated to a wheel chair until his back and leg have the chance to heal. Though he hates the idea of the chair, it’s literally the vehicle that brings his true love into his life.
Melody Carter is a Marine widow struggling with a sickly baby. Alone in every respect, she is exhausted from carrying the burden of the emotional and physical efforts since her husband’s death-and before. When Joe offered his help, her initial reaction was fear, but the combination of his wheelchair and her gut instinct told her he was trustworthy, and she allowed herself to finally lean on someone.
This is a beautiful story of love and redemption. Each character has suffered through their own trials and tribulations, but has persevered and eventually found a match in the other. I love that most of the story is told from Joe’s point of view, since most romance novels focus predominantly on the woman. We do, however, get a good deal of Melody’s viewpoint, so it’s easy to connect to each of them.
Joe had my heart from the start; a man battling back from injury and determined not to give up. Melody is an outstanding character as well; despite being battered and put down, she refuses to submit and is resigned to doing whatever it takes to care for her ill child. We even get to meet Joe’s mom, who is a woman we’d all be lucky to have in our lives-smart, strong and nurturing.
I do wish we had a little more time with the two once their relationship grew, but considering their emotional states, it really was for the best they waited. The slow build up between these two was perfect and natural. Since both were dealing with their share of challenges, it was wonderful to see that neither looked to the other to “fix” things. They first developed a beautiful friendship, although the attraction and love was brewing under the surface.
Those familiar with the rest of Ms. Long’s Always a Marine series will recognize some other familiar names in the course of the story, and it’s fun to see how they can all interact. This book is great not only for the fans of Ms. Long, but for anyone looking for true friendship and love.
February 19, 2013
Whiskey tango foxtrot has a great storyline. The African-American male character ""Joe"" is a wounded marine that steps in to help Melody, the abused widow of a former marine and parent of their daughter, Libby. I thought this was surely going to be a winner after all the story had the handsome military officer coming to the aid of a damsel in distress. This was far from what I found within the pages of this book. This story has many dark, heavy issues that never quite got off the ground in the storyline. This is probably because the novella length was too difficult to really explore and resolve these issues while building a romance between the characters.
I felt no connection with the characters. I didn't like them, and I didn't dislike them. I just didn't connect. Normally somewhere within the first few chapters I start to be drawn into the plot but I was never drawn in and never felt remotely involved in the story. It was difficult for me to process Joe's injuries and feelings as a Marine on the mend because he reaches out to Melody and her issues are brought into the story. Melody's daughter had a very serious heart defect. Joe was there for her during the baby's surgery, and Melody seemed guarded but glad. However, Melody's character was very distant and there was absolutely no chemistry or connection between the two. I never felt like they were a couple or that buildup to them developing feelings for each other. I put my kindle down several times sighed and went back because I hate to start a book and not finish. It was painful at best.
The storyline was more or less that Joe fell in love with her at first sight , determined to help her overcome her past and help with her daughter. Then he waited until she was ready. Eventually she was ready and they had sex, became a couple and decided to get married. All literally in the last 2-3 pages.
I would not recommend this book. I think the author had a very noble idea that went wrong. This novella was too short for the multiple very layered, elements in the story.
Reviewed by Marie for Cocktails and Books
I felt no connection with the characters. I didn't like them, and I didn't dislike them. I just didn't connect. Normally somewhere within the first few chapters I start to be drawn into the plot but I was never drawn in and never felt remotely involved in the story. It was difficult for me to process Joe's injuries and feelings as a Marine on the mend because he reaches out to Melody and her issues are brought into the story. Melody's daughter had a very serious heart defect. Joe was there for her during the baby's surgery, and Melody seemed guarded but glad. However, Melody's character was very distant and there was absolutely no chemistry or connection between the two. I never felt like they were a couple or that buildup to them developing feelings for each other. I put my kindle down several times sighed and went back because I hate to start a book and not finish. It was painful at best.
The storyline was more or less that Joe fell in love with her at first sight , determined to help her overcome her past and help with her daughter. Then he waited until she was ready. Eventually she was ready and they had sex, became a couple and decided to get married. All literally in the last 2-3 pages.
I would not recommend this book. I think the author had a very noble idea that went wrong. This novella was too short for the multiple very layered, elements in the story.
Reviewed by Marie for Cocktails and Books
January 8, 2013
This IR military romance takes place at Mikes Place a complex dedicated to the care of military men and their families suffering trauma from their time in service. Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is
NOT
a 1NS story. Where the 1NS stories have the sex leading to love this story travels the more traditional route of love leading to sex.
Marine Captain Joe Cooper is recovering from injuries received in the line of duty. His new neighbor, marine widow Melody Carter, has a very ill baby that cries all the time. Joe, being the middle child of 7 children has experience with his siblings and their babies, knocks on Melody’s door and offers his assistance. Melody is afraid of men especially marines as her husband changed from the loving boy she married to an abuser who got worse with each tour. She feels guilty because she is relieved he died. Can she learn to trust Joe? Can they help each other heal?
I don’t know how Heather Long packs so much into such a short story. I laughed, I cried, and I sighed. Each of these stories speaks to me in a different way but this one really got to me. If you haven’t discovered Heather Long yet go forth and read. This book can be read as a stand-alone.
Marine Captain Joe Cooper is recovering from injuries received in the line of duty. His new neighbor, marine widow Melody Carter, has a very ill baby that cries all the time. Joe, being the middle child of 7 children has experience with his siblings and their babies, knocks on Melody’s door and offers his assistance. Melody is afraid of men especially marines as her husband changed from the loving boy she married to an abuser who got worse with each tour. She feels guilty because she is relieved he died. Can she learn to trust Joe? Can they help each other heal?
I don’t know how Heather Long packs so much into such a short story. I laughed, I cried, and I sighed. Each of these stories speaks to me in a different way but this one really got to me. If you haven’t discovered Heather Long yet go forth and read. This book can be read as a stand-alone.
July 19, 2013
With her baby crying, Joe Cooper Anderson--his surname changed throughout the ebook. It was Joe Cooper in the beginning, changed to Joe Anderson in the middle, and then Joe Cooper Anderson...
--knocks on his new neighbor Melody Carter's apartment door one night to see if she needs any help. What he doesn't know is that that moment is the change in his life. He starts getting to know her, caring for her and her sick baby. They both go to the same clinic; her for her baby, Libby, who was born with a heart defect. And Joe for his group/physical therapy as he's in a wheelchair due to an injury he sustained in combat. Before long they fall for each other but need time to heal their wounds, emotionally(Melody) & physically(Joe). They take a 6 month break from each other to heal and become stronger. Keeping only in contact through phone calls, emails and texts. It's a sweet ending when they meet back up face to face.
Yep. Just what Miss Gaga says; I like!!
--knocks on his new neighbor Melody Carter's apartment door one night to see if she needs any help. What he doesn't know is that that moment is the change in his life. He starts getting to know her, caring for her and her sick baby. They both go to the same clinic; her for her baby, Libby, who was born with a heart defect. And Joe for his group/physical therapy as he's in a wheelchair due to an injury he sustained in combat. Before long they fall for each other but need time to heal their wounds, emotionally(Melody) & physically(Joe). They take a 6 month break from each other to heal and become stronger. Keeping only in contact through phone calls, emails and texts. It's a sweet ending when they meet back up face to face.Yep. Just what Miss Gaga says; I like!!
May 21, 2013
Title: Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
Always a marine book 10
Author: Heather Long
Captain Joe Cooper Anderson might have been
confined in his wheel chair for god knows how
long but the sound of a baby crying was really
concerning him. Joe finally decided to go next
door and check on the baby. When he did he met
Melody Carter, a frightened mother. Joe could tell
she had been through more then he could imagine and
set out to help her. Melody was very hesitate to
accept Joe's help. Many things frightened Melody now
that her abusive husband died in the line of duty,
and she also had her daughter Libby, who has a life
threatening heart condition. Together Melody and Joe
work together to fight through there demons helping
each other to heal.
This book touched my heart. It's a love story had such
a good message in it. The things Melody went through
in her marriage and then what she was going through
with her daughter Libby broke my heart. But the way
Joe came in to her life and helped her put it back
together, was truly amazing and heart warming. I give
this book 5 stars.
Heather G
complimentary book given for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
Always a marine book 10
Author: Heather Long
Captain Joe Cooper Anderson might have been
confined in his wheel chair for god knows how
long but the sound of a baby crying was really
concerning him. Joe finally decided to go next
door and check on the baby. When he did he met
Melody Carter, a frightened mother. Joe could tell
she had been through more then he could imagine and
set out to help her. Melody was very hesitate to
accept Joe's help. Many things frightened Melody now
that her abusive husband died in the line of duty,
and she also had her daughter Libby, who has a life
threatening heart condition. Together Melody and Joe
work together to fight through there demons helping
each other to heal.
This book touched my heart. It's a love story had such
a good message in it. The things Melody went through
in her marriage and then what she was going through
with her daughter Libby broke my heart. But the way
Joe came in to her life and helped her put it back
together, was truly amazing and heart warming. I give
this book 5 stars.
Heather G
complimentary book given for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
April 22, 2013
Marine Captain Joe Cooper did not realize when he knocked on his new neighbors door, his life would change forever. Recovering from injuries of his own, he is used to be alone but when he hears the soft whimpers of a baby crying and the murmurings of a woman trying to calm her baby, he wants to offer some support.
Widower Melody Carter is bone tired, her young baby is in need of surgery to fix a heart defect and she is struggling with her feelings over her abusive husbands death. Her first reaction to Joe is ready to flee, but as she begins to get to know Joe she finds his confidence reassuring and comforting. Both are trying to heal open wounds, but if they are willing to work on themselves first they may just have something to build on.
I thought this was completely captivating. It made me a little teary eyed, especially where Melody is concerned. I thought her emotions were so spot on for the situation she is in that it made the story believable. An inspiring story filled with hope.
Widower Melody Carter is bone tired, her young baby is in need of surgery to fix a heart defect and she is struggling with her feelings over her abusive husbands death. Her first reaction to Joe is ready to flee, but as she begins to get to know Joe she finds his confidence reassuring and comforting. Both are trying to heal open wounds, but if they are willing to work on themselves first they may just have something to build on.
I thought this was completely captivating. It made me a little teary eyed, especially where Melody is concerned. I thought her emotions were so spot on for the situation she is in that it made the story believable. An inspiring story filled with hope.
November 2, 2013
"Whiskey Tango Foxtrot" (WTF) was a beautifully told story of Melody, a widow who is still living with the domestic abuse she endured under her Marine husband and is trying to provide the best possible life for her infant daughter who has a life-threatening heart condition, and Joe, a Marine Captain who is striving to overcome the injuries he suffered. This is a non-1Night Stand story, which is a good thing but this kind of story needs to be told over a longer period of time. ^.^
The issues both Joe and Melody had to deal with were not the kind that you can get over after a heart-to-heart talk. They needed time and lots of therapy and it was great watching them build that trust from page to page instead of having them hop into bed at the end of that first day they met. ^.^ And that last chapter? Loved it! ^.^
Five out of five stars. ^.^
The issues both Joe and Melody had to deal with were not the kind that you can get over after a heart-to-heart talk. They needed time and lots of therapy and it was great watching them build that trust from page to page instead of having them hop into bed at the end of that first day they met. ^.^ And that last chapter? Loved it! ^.^
Five out of five stars. ^.^
November 14, 2013
If Joe doesn't make you fall in love with him, his family would. His character is extremely straightforward, compassionate, and so full of love. Melody, a widow who was physically abused by her late husband affected by PTSD, has a baby with a heart problem. The trauma she experienced was ingrained quite deep and Joe's love and patience was amazing. Even Joe's mom and dad were both lovable! This is the first time I've read about the term "velvet tank" and it sure is adorable.
It doesn't go hot and sexy until the end, which makes it even more beautiful. They waited until they were both in the right state of mind before deciding what to do. An absolute favorite of mine from the Always A Marine series.
It doesn't go hot and sexy until the end, which makes it even more beautiful. They waited until they were both in the right state of mind before deciding what to do. An absolute favorite of mine from the Always A Marine series.
February 16, 2013
Love the title of this book! WTF! and oh boy do both characters need to say this more than once. I love stories of "damaged" heroes. And in WTF both the hero and the heroine have serious issues. I think Heather Long dealt with difficult subject matter in a thoughtful and thought provoking way. I really enjoyed the connection between Melody and Joe. I loved the slow build of their relationship and the way that though both were "damaged" they were perfect for each other. Joe's injury making him feel "safe" to Melody, and Joe needing to feel like he is "needed" again. It was a great symbiotic relationship.
March 31, 2013
The second book in the Challenge series, and much more in line with my preferences than the first. In fact I may have to check out the author's other stories about Marines, even though that's not usually my thing. The characters just clicked with me, as well as with each other, and it was lovely to see a hero who was able to deal sympathetically with a heroine's past experiences in a way that neither diminished them or drew attention to them. He was also excellent at acknowledging when he needed to delegate to someone else while also guiding her towards doing the same. I might have liked a different upbeat ending, but that's just me.
August 5, 2015
Love a Heather Long story !! This series is amazing, and so worthwhile. Deep characters we love immediately, and interesting stories, plus hot sexiness, wow! Melody's baby cries all the time, and as her new neighbor, Joe needs to be sure things are okay over there. She has a sick child, who'll be getting surgery soon, and wheelchair bound Joe helps her out, as does his Mom. Their relationship grows and the baby is doing well.
Melody has issues from her past and Joe is in therapy and getting back to walking again. These stories grip you from the start and carry you along for the ride. Highly recommend. ENJOY !!
Melody has issues from her past and Joe is in therapy and getting back to walking again. These stories grip you from the start and carry you along for the ride. Highly recommend. ENJOY !!
November 23, 2013
Of all the stories in the compilation, this one was like a full meal and them some. Ms. Long's heart and soul poured into this one and grabbed me from the very start. I jumped at every sound and worried with Melody over Libby's survival, and mourned Joe's loss of mobility. This story had it all and held me close every step of the way. By far the best story in the compilation and I'm so glad I read it. Nicely done, Ms. Long.
February 5, 2015
Odd break in the story towards the end when suddenly the hero and heroine are separated so her healing can take place. Found it happened so suddenly and not sure I fully understood the context or the reason.
Still really liked characters, but like all the books in the series, it is a bit too short...would have liked it to be a bit longer to continue the character development and more time spent in their reunion.
Still really liked characters, but like all the books in the series, it is a bit too short...would have liked it to be a bit longer to continue the character development and more time spent in their reunion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2013
Ok I have to admit I gave this a three star due to the fact THERE IS NO SEX IN THIS BOOK!!!!!! And I wanted it so bad. Hot guy and girl = NO SEX. WTF!!! Maybe that's why it's called Whiskey Tango Foxtrot! W T F!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2015
Another solid addition to the 'Always a Marine' series by Heather Long - this is book 10. This is the first book in 'The Challenge Series'. Great plot and characters.
July 13, 2015
Words: 25,510
This was a good quick read and a great addition to the series. I hope to see more of Melody and Captain Joe Anderson Cooper later on in the series.
This was a good quick read and a great addition to the series. I hope to see more of Melody and Captain Joe Anderson Cooper later on in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews