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Red-Hot SEALs #2
Forged In Ash
Kait Winchester inherited a special gift from her Arapaho ancestors: she can heal with her touch. And there is no one she would like to get her hands on more than the super-sexy SEAL who seems determined to ignore their off-the-charts chemistry. When the wounded warrior finally seeks her help, she’s ready to nurse him back to health…and into her bed.
Navy SEAL Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky is no stranger to hot water, but recent events have boiled over into one hell of a mess. His team is under investigation for a hostage rescue gone wrong, a crazy female stalker is on his trail, and the last few bullets he took just may sideline him for the rest of his career. The kicker? The one woman who can help him get back on his feet—and has haunted his fantasies for years—is his teammate’s sister. He’s looked but never touched. When his stalker targets Kait, though, Cosky will have no choice but to do whatever is necessary to keep her safe.
Navy SEAL Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky is no stranger to hot water, but recent events have boiled over into one hell of a mess. His team is under investigation for a hostage rescue gone wrong, a crazy female stalker is on his trail, and the last few bullets he took just may sideline him for the rest of his career. The kicker? The one woman who can help him get back on his feet—and has haunted his fantasies for years—is his teammate’s sister. He’s looked but never touched. When his stalker targets Kait, though, Cosky will have no choice but to do whatever is necessary to keep her safe.
446 pages, Paperback
First published January 28, 2014
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February 15, 2014
4.25 Stars...Action! Navy SEALs! Explosions! Chemistry!
Injured during an attempted airplane hijacking, Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky may no longer qualify for active duty. His final hope rests on the healing abilities of a friend's sister he's fantasized about for years. Sisters are off-limits, but once Kait Winchester lays her hands on him they start to burn.
Cosky and team may have stopped the highjacking yet enemies lie in wait to persecute and eliminate them. Secret military groups, moles, a stalker, the supernatural surround Cosky and Kait. It'll be an adrenaline-pumped adventure for these two to get their happily ever after.
Navy SEALs are the hottest thing in romantic suspense. Huge men with ripped abs wearing tight shirts. What's not to like? Yet romantic suspense can be riddled with plot holes, TSTL heroines, and lack of action. This is not the case in "Forged in Ash," which continues the story arc Ms. McCallan began in "Forged in Fire."
Riveting action scenes and suspense are bountiful! It's almost like watching a split screen real-time suspense series. (Think "24") This is what I loved the most about "Ash." ACTION! So many rom-susp are weighed down with sexy time after sexy time...chapters of it. While there are sexy times, I found myself more anxious to get back into the intelligence gathering. It's a pins & needles feeling like the clock is ticking and something is going to happen any second.
The introduction of new characters, especially Wolf and his Arapaho-speaking team, adds another layer to the military side of the story. The FBI (Amy from Forged in Fire) are also involved. Mac's reactions to Amy's presence (or voice) are humorous, and McCallan has assured fans the gruff f-bomb dropper's heroine will 'bring him to his knees.' *fist pump*
There were a couple of pet peeves, such as, the constant blood rushes below the belt. (I know! It's romance, but...Oh, nevermind!) Also, the military man who's determined to protect a woman from grief and widowhood, hence commitment shy.
Read this series in order. There's information in "Forged in Fire" that you will need for "Ash" (i.e., Cosky's stalker, the villain, the trial). It took a couple of years for this book to release. I became very impatient and almost discouraged waiting for it, but it was all WORTH THE WAIT. I anxiously await more of Trish McCallan's books, especially Mac & Amy's and Wolf.
Grade: A-
Injured during an attempted airplane hijacking, Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky may no longer qualify for active duty. His final hope rests on the healing abilities of a friend's sister he's fantasized about for years. Sisters are off-limits, but once Kait Winchester lays her hands on him they start to burn.
Cosky and team may have stopped the highjacking yet enemies lie in wait to persecute and eliminate them. Secret military groups, moles, a stalker, the supernatural surround Cosky and Kait. It'll be an adrenaline-pumped adventure for these two to get their happily ever after.
Navy SEALs are the hottest thing in romantic suspense. Huge men with ripped abs wearing tight shirts. What's not to like? Yet romantic suspense can be riddled with plot holes, TSTL heroines, and lack of action. This is not the case in "Forged in Ash," which continues the story arc Ms. McCallan began in "Forged in Fire."
Riveting action scenes and suspense are bountiful! It's almost like watching a split screen real-time suspense series. (Think "24") This is what I loved the most about "Ash." ACTION! So many rom-susp are weighed down with sexy time after sexy time...chapters of it. While there are sexy times, I found myself more anxious to get back into the intelligence gathering. It's a pins & needles feeling like the clock is ticking and something is going to happen any second.
The introduction of new characters, especially Wolf and his Arapaho-speaking team, adds another layer to the military side of the story. The FBI (Amy from Forged in Fire) are also involved. Mac's reactions to Amy's presence (or voice) are humorous, and McCallan has assured fans the gruff f-bomb dropper's heroine will 'bring him to his knees.' *fist pump*
There were a couple of pet peeves, such as, the constant blood rushes below the belt. (I know! It's romance, but...Oh, nevermind!) Also, the military man who's determined to protect a woman from grief and widowhood, hence commitment shy.
Read this series in order. There's information in "Forged in Fire" that you will need for "Ash" (i.e., Cosky's stalker, the villain, the trial). It took a couple of years for this book to release. I became very impatient and almost discouraged waiting for it, but it was all WORTH THE WAIT. I anxiously await more of Trish McCallan's books, especially Mac & Amy's and Wolf.
Grade: A-
February 13, 2014
Trish McCallan, saving romance one book at a time. LOL. I was ready to give up on romance when I picked up the (really) long awaited sequel to Forged in Fire, Forged in Ash. Who knew that a romance suspense novel with a dash of supernatural would fit the bill? Especially as I don't mix the two.
McCallan sold it though. Immediately following Fire, the SEALS are in hot water for acting on US soil and evading villains trying to tie up loose ends. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Marcus Simcosky learns he may never soldier again if his leg doesn't begin to heal soon. Thus begins his relationship with Kait Winchester, whom he learns has a supposed gift for healing.
The supernatural is internally consistent and limited, so I can expect no deus ex machina or dragons popping out of someone's arse, and because the supernatural element's so subdued, Ash still reads most like a romantic suspense with bullets and a distinctly human villain. The supernatural isn't enigmatic either, like in your "charming touch of magic" novels. (I hate those. Commit!) We know the rules.
I should have balked at the romance too. McCallan's heroes and heroine experience some kind of insta-bond like you see in, say, werewolves, but again, she sold it, somehow. Maybe because McCallan goes to great pains to ensure the narrative's logical, you can stomach a lot, suspend much disbelief. She's realistic with details (except for the conflict, but conspiracies are par for the course in action novels), the "military" touches like strategy, weapons, etc.
I should note that Ash doesn't read "military" because the action takes place on US soil, so the soldiers aren't hunting foreign brown people and then skipping off into the sunset with lovers. The villain's American. Spoiler! Just kidding, it's not a spoiler. There is so much sequel bait in this, but I loved Wolf the best! I was a little skeptical about his name, but even more so about the few times he spoke like he'd been excerpted from the early 20th century. Native Americans speak English like the next guy. I look forward to his book though. Hopefully there's more to him than being the cryptic guy.
Anyway, tight prose, tight pacing, tight action, five stars!
McCallan sold it though. Immediately following Fire, the SEALS are in hot water for acting on US soil and evading villains trying to tie up loose ends. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Marcus Simcosky learns he may never soldier again if his leg doesn't begin to heal soon. Thus begins his relationship with Kait Winchester, whom he learns has a supposed gift for healing.
The supernatural is internally consistent and limited, so I can expect no deus ex machina or dragons popping out of someone's arse, and because the supernatural element's so subdued, Ash still reads most like a romantic suspense with bullets and a distinctly human villain. The supernatural isn't enigmatic either, like in your "charming touch of magic" novels. (I hate those. Commit!) We know the rules.
I should have balked at the romance too. McCallan's heroes and heroine experience some kind of insta-bond like you see in, say, werewolves, but again, she sold it, somehow. Maybe because McCallan goes to great pains to ensure the narrative's logical, you can stomach a lot, suspend much disbelief. She's realistic with details (except for the conflict, but conspiracies are par for the course in action novels), the "military" touches like strategy, weapons, etc.
I should note that Ash doesn't read "military" because the action takes place on US soil, so the soldiers aren't hunting foreign brown people and then skipping off into the sunset with lovers. The villain's American. Spoiler! Just kidding, it's not a spoiler. There is so much sequel bait in this, but I loved Wolf the best! I was a little skeptical about his name, but even more so about the few times he spoke like he'd been excerpted from the early 20th century. Native Americans speak English like the next guy. I look forward to his book though. Hopefully there's more to him than being the cryptic guy.
Anyway, tight prose, tight pacing, tight action, five stars!
July 2, 2017
Not as good as the first. Almost too much suspense/action. Hero was a huge jerk and pushed her away cruelly. But circumstances kept them in close proximity so she forgave. This was after he denied his attraction for four or five years! Absolutely no talk about ow/OM.
I just never really warmed up to the hero. The heroine was very likable.
This is an entertaining suspense series though and free to read or listen via KU.
I just never really warmed up to the hero. The heroine was very likable.
This is an entertaining suspense series though and free to read or listen via KU.
July 22, 2022
There is a good balance of action, romance and story progression and the sex is hot and relevant to the story unlike some books where the story gets in the way of the sex. As with Forged in Fire I am impressed with the excellent editing of the book. So many ebooks are poorly edited with typos which affect the flow of the story; no such problems here.
If I could give 6 stars I would
If I could give 6 stars I would
August 5, 2016
4.5 stars
Cosky... I ♥ you! You are badass.
To sum it up, short and sweet:
Loved it! An amazing continuation to the first book and well worth the long wait. Ms. McCallan- BRAVO! You had me biting my nails, on the edge of my seat at the end of the book (and most of the rest too). The sexual tension was sizzling, and the story was clearly well thought out! I truly loved this couple. I just have one problem. I need more. Pronto! Don't make me wait that long again...
Her face was rosy as she smiled up at him, and her eyes glowed. A gilded frame of golden hair surrounded her head. She was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen.
"Jesus, he whispered thickly, his throat tight. "I love you too fucking much." The smile faded. Solemnly she lifted a hand and touched his cheek. "Never too much. No more than I love you."
Cosky... I ♥ you! You are badass.
To sum it up, short and sweet:
Loved it! An amazing continuation to the first book and well worth the long wait. Ms. McCallan- BRAVO! You had me biting my nails, on the edge of my seat at the end of the book (and most of the rest too). The sexual tension was sizzling, and the story was clearly well thought out! I truly loved this couple. I just have one problem. I need more. Pronto! Don't make me wait that long again...
Her face was rosy as she smiled up at him, and her eyes glowed. A gilded frame of golden hair surrounded her head. She was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen.
"Jesus, he whispered thickly, his throat tight. "I love you too fucking much." The smile faded. Solemnly she lifted a hand and touched his cheek. "Never too much. No more than I love you."
January 11, 2016
Well, not much I can say about this because I just couldn't get it going. I loved book one in this series and I put my current lack of interest completely on myself. It has been almost 2 years since I read book one and therefore, I could not remember the characters or the connections.
That being said, it was a standalone and this was Simcosky and Kait's story. The problem is this picks up at the end of all the craziness from book 1...again I cant remember what the hell happened! So I spent a lot of time skimming thru and getting the gist of it. I wasn't a huge fan of Simcosky and his total cold shoulder but possessive attitude toward Kait. In the heat of the drama and the battle, special gifts unveiled, he is in love! And it ends....
I know I will finish this series because Wolf...well he is pretty damn cool and I'd like to see what happens. I just need to make sure that I don't wait too long again.
That being said, it was a standalone and this was Simcosky and Kait's story. The problem is this picks up at the end of all the craziness from book 1...again I cant remember what the hell happened! So I spent a lot of time skimming thru and getting the gist of it. I wasn't a huge fan of Simcosky and his total cold shoulder but possessive attitude toward Kait. In the heat of the drama and the battle, special gifts unveiled, he is in love! And it ends....
I know I will finish this series because Wolf...well he is pretty damn cool and I'd like to see what happens. I just need to make sure that I don't wait too long again.
October 30, 2016
Non-Stop action cover to cover! Navy SEAL Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky's knee injury may prove to be career ending. And the only one who can help him is Kait Winchester, a team-mate's sister. The attraction & chemistry blow the top out of the sex Heat-O'Meter, but Cosky knows Kait is off limits. The battle to keep his hands off her is a tough one. The plot line from book 1 continues with more complications. A crazed woman is trying to kill the team members, bombs are exploding, and no one can be trusted. Multiple plot lines are woven seamlessly into the story keeping the atmosphere explosive & intense. I loved the introduction of Wolf - oh my! My only little issue is that there are no answers to the overall question of who is behind it all - who & why? The plot continues into the next book with the guys in more trouble than ever. I will be reading on! A Must Read!
May 28, 2019
Omg! I won’t belabor my un-impressed-ness with this book, just scroll thru my notes below.
My fave character is Wolf, the h’s half bro. That’s saying something! The MC’s “romance” is totally not connecting. Started weird, ended abruptly. The suspense stuff I Hope was better but I was too annoyed with the author to care.
Not sure i’ll Be reading any more of her stuff. Arggghhhhh!
My fave character is Wolf, the h’s half bro. That’s saying something! The MC’s “romance” is totally not connecting. Started weird, ended abruptly. The suspense stuff I Hope was better but I was too annoyed with the author to care.
Not sure i’ll Be reading any more of her stuff. Arggghhhhh!
February 8, 2014
I'm really getting into this series, and only wish the next book was out already!
I was really impressed by Book 1, Forged in Fire. It was a strong first book, and I'm glad to see that nothing's changed. Forged in Ash was just as exciting to read as Forged in Fire was, and in some ways, was better.
What I absolutely loved was the realistic handling of the bigger situation the Seals find themselves in. While there was definitely a nice HEA in Forged in Fire, bigger questions were left open, and Forged in Ash starts with how the Seals are handling behind-the-scenes manipulations. The way that McCallan handles this is deft and wonderful. There's no glossy, everything's fine vibe here; there are consequences to the Seals' actions in Forged in Fire, and it's nice to see them deal with those. It'd be easy to paint everything with a happy brush, but McCallan doesn't go that route at all, and as an eager reader, I was glad for it.
That's not to say that Forged in Ash was hopeless; it wasn't. There's tension and drama, but the Seals are more than capable of handling the situations that arise.
And as far as Kait and Cosky, it's hard not to love them, separately and together. Their romance was even better than Zane and Beth's from Book 1, in that they get tested, and both have to deal with their feelings. The way McCallan wrote their story feels incredibly realistic; while this book spans a few more days than the last, it's still a pretty quick romance, so it's amazing to me that McCallan can bring together two people in such a way that feels real without dragging the other plots out.
I can't say enough good things about this series. I'm totally looking forward to the next book!
I was really impressed by Book 1, Forged in Fire. It was a strong first book, and I'm glad to see that nothing's changed. Forged in Ash was just as exciting to read as Forged in Fire was, and in some ways, was better.
What I absolutely loved was the realistic handling of the bigger situation the Seals find themselves in. While there was definitely a nice HEA in Forged in Fire, bigger questions were left open, and Forged in Ash starts with how the Seals are handling behind-the-scenes manipulations. The way that McCallan handles this is deft and wonderful. There's no glossy, everything's fine vibe here; there are consequences to the Seals' actions in Forged in Fire, and it's nice to see them deal with those. It'd be easy to paint everything with a happy brush, but McCallan doesn't go that route at all, and as an eager reader, I was glad for it.
That's not to say that Forged in Ash was hopeless; it wasn't. There's tension and drama, but the Seals are more than capable of handling the situations that arise.
And as far as Kait and Cosky, it's hard not to love them, separately and together. Their romance was even better than Zane and Beth's from Book 1, in that they get tested, and both have to deal with their feelings. The way McCallan wrote their story feels incredibly realistic; while this book spans a few more days than the last, it's still a pretty quick romance, so it's amazing to me that McCallan can bring together two people in such a way that feels real without dragging the other plots out.
I can't say enough good things about this series. I'm totally looking forward to the next book!
May 7, 2018
I did a baddie. I read #3 first and now am finally reading the first two books. Going to need to read #3 again before I go on to #4. Soooo, take my advise and read them in order for the sake of storyline and continuity. Having completed my lecture for the day, I'll move on to my review. This book is great. Off the charts hot, sexual attraction between Kait and Cosky. I do have to say that Cosky hurt my heart and I wouldn't have blamed Kait if she had dumped this ass, he was a real ass.
The SEALs are in this to the end and the baddies are super bad. Great book.
Kait Winchester had a casual brushing of the arms with Navy SEAL Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky when her brother, Aidan, was injured 5 years ago. The attraction was instant and powerful, but neither acted on it. Cosky, because it was just too intense and he was a chicken to explore where it could go. Kait has the gift of healing from her Arapaho ancestors, but it often doesn't work. When Aidan sends Cosky to Kait after his injured knee fails to heal, they both are struck with more than the heated healing. The lust factor is off the charts too. When Cosky's brain reengages, he insults Kait and leaves.
A lot of what happened in the first book had direct bearing on the plot of this book. The Team is under investigation and the baddies are manipulating everything they can to make them look bad. So it seems that Cosky has picked up not only a Baddie tail, but a crazy female stalker too. Jillian's story is so tragic and she is borderline insane from what she saw and endured. When she goes after Kait, Cosky does whatever he has to keep her safe.
Jillian is just a small part of what is happening in this book. It is action packed and full of plot twists and turns that have the SEALs on the run and the Baddies covering their trail and attacking whenever they can. The real reason for the attempted hijack of Flight 2077 is beyond unbelievable, but, after all, this is fiction.
The SEALs are in this to the end and the baddies are super bad. Great book.
Kait Winchester had a casual brushing of the arms with Navy SEAL Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky when her brother, Aidan, was injured 5 years ago. The attraction was instant and powerful, but neither acted on it. Cosky, because it was just too intense and he was a chicken to explore where it could go. Kait has the gift of healing from her Arapaho ancestors, but it often doesn't work. When Aidan sends Cosky to Kait after his injured knee fails to heal, they both are struck with more than the heated healing. The lust factor is off the charts too. When Cosky's brain reengages, he insults Kait and leaves.
A lot of what happened in the first book had direct bearing on the plot of this book. The Team is under investigation and the baddies are manipulating everything they can to make them look bad. So it seems that Cosky has picked up not only a Baddie tail, but a crazy female stalker too. Jillian's story is so tragic and she is borderline insane from what she saw and endured. When she goes after Kait, Cosky does whatever he has to keep her safe.
Jillian is just a small part of what is happening in this book. It is action packed and full of plot twists and turns that have the SEALs on the run and the Baddies covering their trail and attacking whenever they can. The real reason for the attempted hijack of Flight 2077 is beyond unbelievable, but, after all, this is fiction.
June 22, 2017
I liked this book, and I didn't like this book. The first book in the series I was seriously into, and was so excited to read this one. But, while I normally love several different pov's, it seemed this time it took away from the main story. This was supposed to be Cosky and Kait's story, but sometimes I felt it barely even focused on them. Then it was a quick "they feel in love, the end". What about her brothers and how they felt? Because in the beginning Cosky stayed away from Kait partially because of her one brother Aiden. So I thought that would be some drama to the story but shortly after the book started he was deployed and only mentioned a few times the rest of the book. And then for Wolf to be soooo over the top protective, I would have at least assumed he'd have a conversation or something by the books end. He just sort of got distracted and stopped being over protective. I wanted to love it, I really did, but in the end, I have just ended up wanting to switch out for another series. I seriously want Rawls and Wolf's story, but I feel like half of this book was Wolf's, and I've looked through the rest of the blurbs and he doesn't have one out yet. And honestly, I could care less about reading Mac's story, even if it is a short one. I just have him pictured in my head as a super grumpy unattractive old man. Sorry, just the way he comes across in my head when I read his POV. Book one was really good and I feel like I would've loved this one, if it would've focused more on who it was about and left some of the outside noise out. I wanted more of the healing and less of being in Mac's head.
February 21, 2015
4.5 TESTOSTERONE TWINKLING STARS!
My cup overfloweth with love for this series, I spend my time listening to and salivating over these navy seals, I'm not kidding these guys are panty meltingly gorgeous!
The continuing story line is still going as strong as ever, it keeps your interest peaked and even though once again the story doesn't end in this book it concludes very nicely!
Now let me tell you about the sexy times, (well apart from the ones that use that God forsaken, 4 letter, offensively body cringing, word..............'PENIS'!) they leave me breathless and wanting my husband to come ravish me, well if he could, but he can't as he is currently chained to a chair in my cellar to be used and abused by myself whenever I read an exceptionally hotter that hot scene, I'm kidding, obviously he's not chained to a chair in my cellar, I used rope, I'm not a total barbarian!
This book has it all, and a little bit more to boot! Loved it!
Next please!.....
My cup overfloweth with love for this series, I spend my time listening to and salivating over these navy seals, I'm not kidding these guys are panty meltingly gorgeous!
The continuing story line is still going as strong as ever, it keeps your interest peaked and even though once again the story doesn't end in this book it concludes very nicely!
Now let me tell you about the sexy times, (well apart from the ones that use that God forsaken, 4 letter, offensively body cringing, word..............'PENIS'!) they leave me breathless and wanting my husband to come ravish me, well if he could, but he can't as he is currently chained to a chair in my cellar to be used and abused by myself whenever I read an exceptionally hotter that hot scene, I'm kidding, obviously he's not chained to a chair in my cellar, I used rope, I'm not a total barbarian!
This book has it all, and a little bit more to boot! Loved it!
Next please!.....
October 21, 2016
May 13, 2014: I really like this author's writing style. This series is great, but I think I need to wait until it is completely finished and published before I read another one. I didn't go back yet and read the first one even though I knew it had been changed and had a different ending. This one didn't have the cliffhanger of the first original book. But the story doesn't end with this one. Me memory just isn't good enough to go years and pick up the story where it left off.
Reread on 10-20-16: I don't usually read a book a second time. This series was not finished when I read it the first time and I was anxious to finish the story. This one also seems different but I don't really know why or how.
Reread on 10-20-16: I don't usually read a book a second time. This series was not finished when I read it the first time and I was anxious to finish the story. This one also seems different but I don't really know why or how.
November 17, 2014
4.5 stars
I wish all these books were out and that book 3's release date wasn't pushed back because I LOVED this book. The same as book 1, I found the romance aspect of the main couple a little lack lustre, but it was more believable than that of Zane and Beth (book 1). I loved the Native American aspects and the action, however and it more than made up for any shortcomings. I listened to the audiobook and initially I was disappointed that Angela Dawe wasn't narrating book 2, but Luke Daniels is great as well. There is an overall story arc that is still going on so there are a lot of unanswered threads.
I wish all these books were out and that book 3's release date wasn't pushed back because I LOVED this book. The same as book 1, I found the romance aspect of the main couple a little lack lustre, but it was more believable than that of Zane and Beth (book 1). I loved the Native American aspects and the action, however and it more than made up for any shortcomings. I listened to the audiobook and initially I was disappointed that Angela Dawe wasn't narrating book 2, but Luke Daniels is great as well. There is an overall story arc that is still going on so there are a lot of unanswered threads.
May 9, 2014
Really addictive! Review to come.
June 3, 2017
I'm really enjoying this series. The characters are great and the stories interesting.
What I enjoyed:
*Kait - she is confident and knows how to take care of herself
* the SEALS - they are a great team and really look out for each other
* Amy - hopefully she and Mac will eventually get their own book
* Whomever is behind all this is super powerful. I was surprised at what happened at the end
What could have been better:
* Marcus - Other than he is trying to avoid Kait (and feelings), you really didn't get much of a feel for him
* A lot of time spent on the other two couples
* Beth was barely in the book. I hope it isn't setting a precedent which would mean Kait would basically disappear for the next one
What I enjoyed:
*Kait - she is confident and knows how to take care of herself
* the SEALS - they are a great team and really look out for each other
* Amy - hopefully she and Mac will eventually get their own book
* Whomever is behind all this is super powerful. I was surprised at what happened at the end
What could have been better:
* Marcus - Other than he is trying to avoid Kait (and feelings), you really didn't get much of a feel for him
* A lot of time spent on the other two couples
* Beth was barely in the book. I hope it isn't setting a precedent which would mean Kait would basically disappear for the next one
December 26, 2018
The action in this one was good, but it overshadowed the romance and I'm just not all about that life.
June 25, 2015
4-4.5 stars
This was a really good story. I really liked both Kait and Marcus. The romance part of the story ends in a happy ending but the action plot is still ongoing and it looks like it wont be concluded until the end of the series. I will say that it's been 9+ months since I read the first book and I barely remembered it...this book does good at reminding the readers of what happened previously For people that haven't read book #1 I think there could be some confusion but it wouldn't be too bad.
Kait is half Arrapaho and is the sister and daughter of special forces men. She grew up with one brother (Aidan) and recently discovered a half-brother (Wolf). Kait has also discovered a healing power in her. It only works part of the time but she was able to use to to heal Aidan when he was seriously injured and looking at the possibility of no longer walking.
Marcus is special forces and lives for his job. His teammates are his brothers and he'd do anything for them. He' swore off anything serious with women because he can't see any woman wanting to deal with the risk and worry that comes with being involved with someone in special forces. Marcus met Kait 5 years ago (when Aidan was in the hospital) and knew from the first instant that the strong attraction between them was his kryptonite...because of this he's made a noticeable effort to stay far away from Kait.
Marcus was hurt in book #1, Forged in Fire and the gunshot wound to his knee isn't healing well at all. The doctors aren't happy about it and think he will need more surgeries and even then won't be fit enough to rejoin his team. Aidan approaches Marcus and tells him about how Kait has a healing power that was what healed his horrible damaged spine years before. Marcus isn't sure if he believes Aidan but ends up being desperate enough to call Kait to see if her healing can work. While this is going on, Marcus and his team are being questioned about the events in Forged in Fire but since much of what happened has been covered up and seems to be the stuff of conspiracy theorists wet dreams, things aren't going too well for them.
Marcus goes to Kait's place for the healing but the major attraction between them causes some issues and things go too far. Marcus freaks and therefore has a big bout of relationship dumbassedness, hurting Kait in the process. Unknown to him, Marcus had a tail when he went to Kait's place and it ends up bringing Kait into their issues....putting her in the line of sight of a crazy woman and the men trying to keep the conspiracy quiet. Things between Kait and Marcus get worked out along the way and there's a lot of action to keep things interesting. The story actually began focusing on the romance but as the action started, the plot seemed to focus more on the action than the romance. Not in a bad way though...there was still attention to the romance, it just was done in a way that worked with the action (and not in a way that makes you wonder how the couple found time to have sex in the middle of a firefight or some crap like that). Things work out so that Marcus and Kait are happily together at the end (and I Liked how Marcus connected with her powers).
This was a really enjoyable story. I really liked Kait and Marcus. Thier story was very good and I liked the characters and the way things played out. The romance did get concluded by the end but the action plot looks like it'll continue through the whole series. That's cool though because I'm planning to read more of the series. Overall, this was a really good story and I'd recommend it (after book #1). :)
* note - I listened to the audio version of this book. The narrator did a very good job.
This was a really good story. I really liked both Kait and Marcus. The romance part of the story ends in a happy ending but the action plot is still ongoing and it looks like it wont be concluded until the end of the series. I will say that it's been 9+ months since I read the first book and I barely remembered it...this book does good at reminding the readers of what happened previously For people that haven't read book #1 I think there could be some confusion but it wouldn't be too bad.
Kait is half Arrapaho and is the sister and daughter of special forces men. She grew up with one brother (Aidan) and recently discovered a half-brother (Wolf). Kait has also discovered a healing power in her. It only works part of the time but she was able to use to to heal Aidan when he was seriously injured and looking at the possibility of no longer walking.
Marcus is special forces and lives for his job. His teammates are his brothers and he'd do anything for them. He' swore off anything serious with women because he can't see any woman wanting to deal with the risk and worry that comes with being involved with someone in special forces. Marcus met Kait 5 years ago (when Aidan was in the hospital) and knew from the first instant that the strong attraction between them was his kryptonite...because of this he's made a noticeable effort to stay far away from Kait.
Marcus was hurt in book #1, Forged in Fire and the gunshot wound to his knee isn't healing well at all. The doctors aren't happy about it and think he will need more surgeries and even then won't be fit enough to rejoin his team. Aidan approaches Marcus and tells him about how Kait has a healing power that was what healed his horrible damaged spine years before. Marcus isn't sure if he believes Aidan but ends up being desperate enough to call Kait to see if her healing can work. While this is going on, Marcus and his team are being questioned about the events in Forged in Fire but since much of what happened has been covered up and seems to be the stuff of conspiracy theorists wet dreams, things aren't going too well for them.
Marcus goes to Kait's place for the healing but the major attraction between them causes some issues and things go too far. Marcus freaks and therefore has a big bout of relationship dumbassedness, hurting Kait in the process. Unknown to him, Marcus had a tail when he went to Kait's place and it ends up bringing Kait into their issues....putting her in the line of sight of a crazy woman and the men trying to keep the conspiracy quiet. Things between Kait and Marcus get worked out along the way and there's a lot of action to keep things interesting. The story actually began focusing on the romance but as the action started, the plot seemed to focus more on the action than the romance. Not in a bad way though...there was still attention to the romance, it just was done in a way that worked with the action (and not in a way that makes you wonder how the couple found time to have sex in the middle of a firefight or some crap like that). Things work out so that Marcus and Kait are happily together at the end (and I Liked how Marcus connected with her powers).
This was a really enjoyable story. I really liked Kait and Marcus. Thier story was very good and I liked the characters and the way things played out. The romance did get concluded by the end but the action plot looks like it'll continue through the whole series. That's cool though because I'm planning to read more of the series. Overall, this was a really good story and I'd recommend it (after book #1). :)
* note - I listened to the audio version of this book. The narrator did a very good job.
December 12, 2014
This one picks up right off the first one and I read it a long time ago so it took a bit to get back into the story. I think a good bit of the story was used to set up the relationships in future books and we didn't get enough of Marcus and Kate.
I listened to this one, the narrator was Ok.
I listened to this one, the narrator was Ok.
September 11, 2019
This book was such a disappointment. The leads did not have the same chemistry as the previous couple did. I thought it would have felt even more organic since they had a little history with each other. But they both read like cardboard cutouts of romance characters. Kait is the more tolerable of the two. She's more open and grounded. Cosky is just a huge ball of testosterone who doesn't know when to quit. Then most of their conflict was a lack of communication, which I hate. When you have terrorists for bad guys, you don't need to create unnecessary drama to keep the couple apart.
I sadly won't be finishing the series. The supernatural element was intriguing but it's not enough to keep me reading.
I sadly won't be finishing the series. The supernatural element was intriguing but it's not enough to keep me reading.
November 9, 2021
Forged in Fire set the stage....spec ops SEALs meet paranormal romance with lots of action and blazing romance. Forged in Ash continues as Trish McCallan delves more into the who are behind the terrorist plot and what Mac and his team are up against. Five years...five long years, that's how long Cos has been avoiding Kait. From the very moment he first saw her, she burrowed into the very essence of his being. Now he's out of options with what could be a career-ending injury so he seeks her help. Kait is a metaphysical healer or so Cos is told. Color him skeptical. What he doesn't know is that the attraction between them isn't one-sided. The potency of their connection soon manifests itself in a variety of ways. The team gathers more intel and adds to their ragtag group as the try to stay one step ahead of an unknown enemy who seeks to destroy them.
October 19, 2018
Goner
Forged in Ash cemented how I feel about the Red-Hot Seal Series, I absolutely love it. The psychic romance/ military combo really does it for me, three of my favs. On by one the team falls lol! I felt for Cosky though, having watched what his mother endured when his father was a cop and then having cancer as well as the worry over his job, he didn’t want to put a wife through the same thing. He thought keeping Kait at a distance and the excuse of her being a teammates sister would put paid to anything between them. Everything changes when Cosky and Kait end up in the crosshairs of not only a woman out for revenge but a mysterious group of people wanting Seal Team 7 out of the way.
Forged in Ash cemented how I feel about the Red-Hot Seal Series, I absolutely love it. The psychic romance/ military combo really does it for me, three of my favs. On by one the team falls lol! I felt for Cosky though, having watched what his mother endured when his father was a cop and then having cancer as well as the worry over his job, he didn’t want to put a wife through the same thing. He thought keeping Kait at a distance and the excuse of her being a teammates sister would put paid to anything between them. Everything changes when Cosky and Kait end up in the crosshairs of not only a woman out for revenge but a mysterious group of people wanting Seal Team 7 out of the way.
May 12, 2017
Kait Winchester is a blond half-Indian who can heal with her touch. Navy SEAL Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky is willing to do anything to heal his knee and stay on the Teams. Did I mention that they have chemistry, so explosive that Cosky has been avoiding her for 5 years?
Why I started this book: I was feeling sick and I needed something interesting enough too keep me occupied.
Why I finished it: Insta-love isn't my thing... but there was plenty of the conspiracy that made the first book so explosive. (If not believable.)
Why I started this book: I was feeling sick and I needed something interesting enough too keep me occupied.
Why I finished it: Insta-love isn't my thing... but there was plenty of the conspiracy that made the first book so explosive. (If not believable.)
August 4, 2017
My Musings
This is a fantastic book and kept me on the edge of my seat from the beginning to the end. Ms. McClellan writes some of the best suspense scenes I have ever read. Can't wait to read the next one in this amazing series.Happy ☺reading 📚!
This is a fantastic book and kept me on the edge of my seat from the beginning to the end. Ms. McClellan writes some of the best suspense scenes I have ever read. Can't wait to read the next one in this amazing series.Happy ☺reading 📚!
May 16, 2018
Great book!
The only thing I didn’t like about this book is that I had to wait for book 3. If you are look now books 3 and 4 are already out.
The only thing I didn’t like about this book is that I had to wait for book 3. If you are look now books 3 and 4 are already out.
June 27, 2018
Easy, entertaining...sometimes a bit naive. A good diversion after ten solid hours working...
I think I'm going to read the sequel...ah and..Cosky's eyes...World Heritage!!!😋😉💕
I think I'm going to read the sequel...ah and..Cosky's eyes...World Heritage!!!😋😉💕
February 18, 2019
I'm totally hook to these seals at the moment & when they find the one holy smoke.
Cosky & Kait felt there connection 5yrs ago but Cosky wouldn't go there so he avoided her until he's injured & needs her help.
Cosky & Kait felt there connection 5yrs ago but Cosky wouldn't go there so he avoided her until he's injured & needs her help.
July 10, 2016
Yep! It delivered!!!
The second book in A Red-Hot SEALs Series, that continues with the arch of the story! But focuses mainly on one couple.
Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky lives in fear of never returning to his place on the teams because of his bum knee. A knee that hasn’t recovered, and in fact looks and feels worse instead of better.
Add to that, there seems to be a crazy lady intent on killing him, by any means necessary, gun, car, knife…..
His new roommate Aiden, suggests he visits his sister Kait so she can give him a massage, like the one she gave him when his spine was busted and he turned out alright.
The problem with this is the last time he just brushed with her, she became the sole existence in his mind, something akin to obsession, the star of all his fantasies and dreams. What would happen if she actually touched him, maintained a conversation with him???
Kait, is part Arapaho, and has a certain, shall we say, gift? She can heal with her hands. So when Aiden reaches out to her on behalf of Cosky, she reluctantly accepts.
Reluctantly is the key word here. Ever since their brush in the hospital with his brother, she can’t seem to get him out or her head. Can she keep it together enough to finish a massage without embarrassing or making a fool of herself?
The chemistry between them can’t be denied. They are explosive together. But the timing isn’t right, besides crazy lady, the SEALs are being set up to take the fall for something they did not do. So what are they to do?
The book is fast paced, and the characters are well written. The story continues from book one, and will keep going on book three and hopefully on book four (keeping my fingers crossed that it’s the one about Mac!!!!) So it is not a stand alone book.
The relationship that builds between Cosky and Kait, as well as the other characters in the book is fast, but that does not mean that is not profound. The secondary characters that support this story are great. We revisit some old friends, and meet new ones.
I read book three first, but it definitely helps if you read them in order.
For more reviews visit me at: www.isatho2000.wordpress.com
Trish McCallan
The second book in A Red-Hot SEALs Series, that continues with the arch of the story! But focuses mainly on one couple.
“I’m still scared shitless. The way I feel about you isn’t rational. It isn’t comfortable. Hell” --his voice deepened in disgust--”it’s not normal.” A peal of laughter erupted from her. Her eyes started to shine. “That’s got to be the most unromantic declaration of love ever.”
Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky lives in fear of never returning to his place on the teams because of his bum knee. A knee that hasn’t recovered, and in fact looks and feels worse instead of better.
Add to that, there seems to be a crazy lady intent on killing him, by any means necessary, gun, car, knife…..
His new roommate Aiden, suggests he visits his sister Kait so she can give him a massage, like the one she gave him when his spine was busted and he turned out alright.
The problem with this is the last time he just brushed with her, she became the sole existence in his mind, something akin to obsession, the star of all his fantasies and dreams. What would happen if she actually touched him, maintained a conversation with him???
Kait, is part Arapaho, and has a certain, shall we say, gift? She can heal with her hands. So when Aiden reaches out to her on behalf of Cosky, she reluctantly accepts.
Reluctantly is the key word here. Ever since their brush in the hospital with his brother, she can’t seem to get him out or her head. Can she keep it together enough to finish a massage without embarrassing or making a fool of herself?
The chemistry between them can’t be denied. They are explosive together. But the timing isn’t right, besides crazy lady, the SEALs are being set up to take the fall for something they did not do. So what are they to do?
"And if she was going to love a special operator, it was damn well going to be him
The book is fast paced, and the characters are well written. The story continues from book one, and will keep going on book three and hopefully on book four (keeping my fingers crossed that it’s the one about Mac!!!!) So it is not a stand alone book.
The relationship that builds between Cosky and Kait, as well as the other characters in the book is fast, but that does not mean that is not profound. The secondary characters that support this story are great. We revisit some old friends, and meet new ones.
I read book three first, but it definitely helps if you read them in order.
For more reviews visit me at: www.isatho2000.wordpress.com
Trish McCallan
February 26, 2017
The romance part was okay, but the action was the best! Really enjoyed this one.
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