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Semper Fi #3
The Officer and the Secret
If There's One Thing He Hates, It's a Secret...
Coming home after a rough deployment, Captain Dwayne Robertson wants some stability in his life, and finds it in the friendship he's forged with Veronica Gibson while he was away. But her past is a well-guarded mystery, and Dwayne doesn't know if he can deal with a woman who has something to hide...
And She's Filled with Them...
Veronica Gibson doesn't want anyone to know about her bizarre upbringing. She's finally escaped her missionary parents and would be enjoying her independence if she didn't feel so insecure about fitting in. She can easily envision a glorious future with Dwayne—but can she build a new life on a web of lies?
Praise for The Officer Says "I Do":
"One of the best I have ever read...A phenomenal writer."—Night Owl Reviews, Reviewer Top Pick, 5 Stars
"I could not put this book down."—My Secret Romance
"A genuinely sweet and altogether spicy romance with a military flavor...the characters, the chemistry, and sensual love story will have you begging for more."—The Long and Short of It
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2013
20 people are currently reading
671 people want to read
About the author
Jeanette Murray
18 books406 followersFacebook.com/JeanetteMurrayBooks
@KJMurrayBooks
Jeanette lives just outside St. Louis with her husband, daughter and their lovable-but-stupid Goldendoodle. When she's not writing her next romance, she's found hanging out with the new friends she's made here, catching up with old friends from past duty stations on Facebook, or surfing Pinterest pretending she can cook. Catch up with her on Facebook or Twitter for contests, sneak peeks of what she's working on, and updates about her life in general.
@KJMurrayBooks
Jeanette lives just outside St. Louis with her husband, daughter and their lovable-but-stupid Goldendoodle. When she's not writing her next romance, she's found hanging out with the new friends she's made here, catching up with old friends from past duty stations on Facebook, or surfing Pinterest pretending she can cook. Catch up with her on Facebook or Twitter for contests, sneak peeks of what she's working on, and updates about her life in general.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
September 27, 2013
I liked it...just fell a little short of loving it.
First the good points:
I liked the story line. Thirty-something Marine (Captain Dwayne Robertson) is currently stateside (Calif.) after a rough deployment. He meets 26-year-old Veronica Gibson, sheltered daughter of missionaries with a rather bizarre upbringing. Veronica is the cousin to the wife of one of his best friends (Tim and Skye--The Officer Says "I Do") and he knows her a bit from having some Skype conversations while overseas. So now he finally gets to meet her in person. She's shy, but pretty, and they seem to have a connection. He can see that she's inexperienced and a little skittish around men, but he vows to take it slow and see where things lead. It's not long before they're sharing a bed. Things are going great there but both Dwayne and Veronica have some secrets they're hiding from each other. Nothing earth shattering, but they really need to talk and share to make this relationship work. Things are progressing even though each is holding back...but then the inevitable happens, and this throws the relationship off track.
Captain Dwayne...
This was an easy read. I really got hooked by the first chapter, and couldn't wait to see how things progressed. Dwayne was a charming, big, strapping country boy, and he was really very sweet and careful with the woefully naive Veronica. Veronica was determined to live a 'normal' life once she broke away from her domineering parents, and kudos to her for having the courage to try. So why didn't this rate higher with me?
The bad?:
These two never talked! At least not about anything important like their relationship. I just couldn't believe in them as a couple. They barely scratched the surface about knowing anything about the other. I realize this was the gist of the whole story--that they both had some secrets to reveal--but it was darn frustrating when opportunities arose and they (usually Veronica) just clammed up. I kept waiting and waiting for the big reveal, and it didn't come until the end of the book. Too late for me. Maybe if there had been an epilogue, and we could see how their relationship was progressing after the big reveal, I would have been satisfied.
I do like the author's writing style, and I'm curious enough to try the previous two books in this series (about Dwayne's two Marine buddies), even though this one fell just short of the mark for me. 3 1/2 stars
First the good points:
I liked the story line. Thirty-something Marine (Captain Dwayne Robertson) is currently stateside (Calif.) after a rough deployment. He meets 26-year-old Veronica Gibson, sheltered daughter of missionaries with a rather bizarre upbringing. Veronica is the cousin to the wife of one of his best friends (Tim and Skye--The Officer Says "I Do") and he knows her a bit from having some Skype conversations while overseas. So now he finally gets to meet her in person. She's shy, but pretty, and they seem to have a connection. He can see that she's inexperienced and a little skittish around men, but he vows to take it slow and see where things lead. It's not long before they're sharing a bed. Things are going great there but both Dwayne and Veronica have some secrets they're hiding from each other. Nothing earth shattering, but they really need to talk and share to make this relationship work. Things are progressing even though each is holding back...but then the inevitable happens, and this throws the relationship off track.
Captain Dwayne...
This was an easy read. I really got hooked by the first chapter, and couldn't wait to see how things progressed. Dwayne was a charming, big, strapping country boy, and he was really very sweet and careful with the woefully naive Veronica. Veronica was determined to live a 'normal' life once she broke away from her domineering parents, and kudos to her for having the courage to try. So why didn't this rate higher with me?
The bad?:
These two never talked! At least not about anything important like their relationship. I just couldn't believe in them as a couple. They barely scratched the surface about knowing anything about the other. I realize this was the gist of the whole story--that they both had some secrets to reveal--but it was darn frustrating when opportunities arose and they (usually Veronica) just clammed up. I kept waiting and waiting for the big reveal, and it didn't come until the end of the book. Too late for me. Maybe if there had been an epilogue, and we could see how their relationship was progressing after the big reveal, I would have been satisfied.
I do like the author's writing style, and I'm curious enough to try the previous two books in this series (about Dwayne's two Marine buddies), even though this one fell just short of the mark for me. 3 1/2 stars
July 13, 2013
I have read all three books in this series now, and I LOVED them all.
Skye and Tim in "The Officer Says I Do".
Madison and Jeremy in "The Officer Breaks The Rules".
But I have to say I developed a huge soft spot for Dwayne through both books, so I am beyond happy to finally get to read his and Veronica's story. It is sweet, funny, and I loved seeing Veronica overcome her shyness and naivety and go for what she wanted. Dwayne *swoon* the gentle giant and perfect gentleman who has returned from a tour with a few battle-scars on the inside, finds the peace and calming influence to help him deal with his issues in Veronica. It was just perfect, I pulled an almost all-nighter to finish this book because I just couldn't put it down.
One of the main things I love about this series is that although each one focuses on a specific couple, everyone else is still kept in the loop, so it really does feel like the whole groups story develops at the same time, I am just crossing everything right now that Jeanette Murray continues with the Semper Fi series, as I don't want to say goodbye to any of them just yet........
ARC provided by Netgalley, and I am happy to provide the above honest review as thanks, this author ROCKS!!!!
Skye and Tim in "The Officer Says I Do".
Madison and Jeremy in "The Officer Breaks The Rules".
But I have to say I developed a huge soft spot for Dwayne through both books, so I am beyond happy to finally get to read his and Veronica's story. It is sweet, funny, and I loved seeing Veronica overcome her shyness and naivety and go for what she wanted. Dwayne *swoon* the gentle giant and perfect gentleman who has returned from a tour with a few battle-scars on the inside, finds the peace and calming influence to help him deal with his issues in Veronica. It was just perfect, I pulled an almost all-nighter to finish this book because I just couldn't put it down.
One of the main things I love about this series is that although each one focuses on a specific couple, everyone else is still kept in the loop, so it really does feel like the whole groups story develops at the same time, I am just crossing everything right now that Jeanette Murray continues with the Semper Fi series, as I don't want to say goodbye to any of them just yet........
ARC provided by Netgalley, and I am happy to provide the above honest review as thanks, this author ROCKS!!!!
November 29, 2025
Raised in the far reaches of the world, as a missionary child, Veronica Gibson life has been a extremely sheltered. Now living in the same city of her cousin, Veronica is fighting to appear normal in a world she is struggling to belong.
Captain Dwayne Robertson has just returned home from deployment. Suffering from the stress of war, Dwayne found solace in skype chats with Veronica. Veronica is the roommate who always seemed to be there and pick up when he was calling his friends while on deployment. Now home and meeting the beauty face to face he is unsure if he should pursue the attraction he feels, confused by his PTSD symptoms.
Veronica is caught up in a few of Dwayne's PTSD flash backs, carefully walking Dwayne back to a safer mindset each time. Their relationship grows into strong friendship right under their noses, can they see what they have before its too late?
The Officer and the Secret is the prefect, sweet and heartfelt story of two beautiful people finding true love. Both damaged by circumstances of their past, Veronica and Dwayne journeying to find the missing component (each other) in their lives was a splendid experience to read. Don't miss this enjoyable and heartwarming story.
This ARC review of The Officer and the Secret was given to me by Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication July 2, 2013.
Captain Dwayne Robertson has just returned home from deployment. Suffering from the stress of war, Dwayne found solace in skype chats with Veronica. Veronica is the roommate who always seemed to be there and pick up when he was calling his friends while on deployment. Now home and meeting the beauty face to face he is unsure if he should pursue the attraction he feels, confused by his PTSD symptoms.
Veronica is caught up in a few of Dwayne's PTSD flash backs, carefully walking Dwayne back to a safer mindset each time. Their relationship grows into strong friendship right under their noses, can they see what they have before its too late?
The Officer and the Secret is the prefect, sweet and heartfelt story of two beautiful people finding true love. Both damaged by circumstances of their past, Veronica and Dwayne journeying to find the missing component (each other) in their lives was a splendid experience to read. Don't miss this enjoyable and heartwarming story.
This ARC review of The Officer and the Secret was given to me by Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication July 2, 2013.
July 13, 2013
4 stars
It was a good read, this one. The book is slow compared to previous books and I got bored after a few chapters, to be honest. But curiosity is really hard to put aside. Mainly because of Veronica. She's very secretive and reserved. She's not kiss-and-tell kind of person. And I wanted to know about her what happened in her past that made who she is now. Besides, she's really nice one and I agreed with the Dwayne one thing about Veronica - her presence calms you. Dwayne's a nice guy too and I completely understand when he got freak out over one particular thing but he shouldn't do what he did to Veronica. As it happened unintentionally. I felt terribly bad for her.
The ending didn't reach to my satisfaction but I think it's still okay, though. Only if there is an Epilogue, I might not feel as in is missing in this story. Anyways, I will look forward to read the next in the series. I heard Book 4's coming and that's just great! Read on your own peril.
It was a good read, this one. The book is slow compared to previous books and I got bored after a few chapters, to be honest. But curiosity is really hard to put aside. Mainly because of Veronica. She's very secretive and reserved. She's not kiss-and-tell kind of person. And I wanted to know about her what happened in her past that made who she is now. Besides, she's really nice one and I agreed with the Dwayne one thing about Veronica - her presence calms you. Dwayne's a nice guy too and I completely understand when he got freak out over one particular thing but he shouldn't do what he did to Veronica. As it happened unintentionally. I felt terribly bad for her.
The ending didn't reach to my satisfaction but I think it's still okay, though. Only if there is an Epilogue, I might not feel as in is missing in this story. Anyways, I will look forward to read the next in the series. I heard Book 4's coming and that's just great! Read on your own peril.
June 9, 2013
Dwayne returns from his latest deployment suffering from PTSD. At first it appears that no one but Veronica notices his behavior. But as the story progresses he admits he's suffering and seeks help.
The story of Veronica and Dwayne naturally picks up because the "romance" started in the previous book in the series via Skype. Veronica I liked more so in this installment than the previous ones. They had a nice, sweet romance to start, nothing fireworks hot, but nice all the same. Until Dwayne became a jerk.
Sure, he'd been duped in the past, but I thought he knew Veronica a bit better then girl who'd previously duped him. His behavior toward Veronica turned me off to him. Of course they made up in the end and was able to move on together, but I as the reader was unable to get past it and lost all interest in Dwayne.
The story of Veronica and Dwayne naturally picks up because the "romance" started in the previous book in the series via Skype. Veronica I liked more so in this installment than the previous ones. They had a nice, sweet romance to start, nothing fireworks hot, but nice all the same. Until Dwayne became a jerk.
Sure, he'd been duped in the past, but I thought he knew Veronica a bit better then girl who'd previously duped him. His behavior toward Veronica turned me off to him. Of course they made up in the end and was able to move on together, but I as the reader was unable to get past it and lost all interest in Dwayne.
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July 2, 2013Rhayne‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Review copy provided for an honest review
4 STARS
The officer and the secret is the third book in the Semper Fi series by Jeanette Murray. We were teased with a brewing relationship between Dwayne and Veronica in book two and I couldn’t wait to read more about them.
Dwayne meets veronica via Skype while he is deployed. She is staying with her cousin and they connect one night while she is borrowing her computer. They are immediately drawn to each other. Once Dwayne returns home that connection stays, but it’s apparent their lives are worlds apart. The road these two travel to claim their happily ever after is absolutely heat warming.
Veronica has been raised traveling the globe with her missionary parents. She has led an extremely sheltered life and is now trying to learn how to adjust in the modern world she has never been a part of. She is embarrassed by her past and does her best to hide it. Dwayne has just returned from a seven- month deployment. This particular mission was grueling on him and left him with lingering nightmares once he returns home. The only bright spot of the deployment were the few times he was able to talk with Veronica and she quickly became a lifeline to hold on to.
Dwayne is struggling with his reintegration once he’s stateside. I really liked the way this concept was added into the storyline. Not only did it excel the plot, but it gave readers an honest sense of realism. I don’t think a lot of people truly understand how difficult some of these military operations can be and how hard it is to leave it all behind and move on with your life once they come back home. I really admired the way he was able to admit he was struggling with PTSD and got help he needed.
Veronica is just trying to learn how to survive in her new life. Everything she is feeling is foreign. She has been raised isolated from friends and men it takes a lot of adjusting for her to be able to open up and recognize her wants and desires. She wasn’t prepared for the feelings she has for Dwayne. The only thing she knows for sure is he owns a part of her heart.
I loved this couple together. Their love story is completely original and even though the conflict was a bit predictable they really pulled of an honest heart felt endearing romance. It has perfect mix of humor, passion, intrigue and resolve.
Murray’s characters are so unique and her couples are explosive together. She always finds the perfect balance integrating her side characters into every book in the series. I love when you get to read more about the people you came to know and love from previous books.
If you are a fan of this series, you will appreciate this new addition. If you haven’t started them yet you will have no problem reading this as a stand-alone, but it is a great series and I highly recommend starting it.
Review copy provided for an honest review
4 STARS
The officer and the secret is the third book in the Semper Fi series by Jeanette Murray. We were teased with a brewing relationship between Dwayne and Veronica in book two and I couldn’t wait to read more about them.
Dwayne meets veronica via Skype while he is deployed. She is staying with her cousin and they connect one night while she is borrowing her computer. They are immediately drawn to each other. Once Dwayne returns home that connection stays, but it’s apparent their lives are worlds apart. The road these two travel to claim their happily ever after is absolutely heat warming.
Veronica has been raised traveling the globe with her missionary parents. She has led an extremely sheltered life and is now trying to learn how to adjust in the modern world she has never been a part of. She is embarrassed by her past and does her best to hide it. Dwayne has just returned from a seven- month deployment. This particular mission was grueling on him and left him with lingering nightmares once he returns home. The only bright spot of the deployment were the few times he was able to talk with Veronica and she quickly became a lifeline to hold on to.
Dwayne is struggling with his reintegration once he’s stateside. I really liked the way this concept was added into the storyline. Not only did it excel the plot, but it gave readers an honest sense of realism. I don’t think a lot of people truly understand how difficult some of these military operations can be and how hard it is to leave it all behind and move on with your life once they come back home. I really admired the way he was able to admit he was struggling with PTSD and got help he needed.
Veronica is just trying to learn how to survive in her new life. Everything she is feeling is foreign. She has been raised isolated from friends and men it takes a lot of adjusting for her to be able to open up and recognize her wants and desires. She wasn’t prepared for the feelings she has for Dwayne. The only thing she knows for sure is he owns a part of her heart.
I loved this couple together. Their love story is completely original and even though the conflict was a bit predictable they really pulled of an honest heart felt endearing romance. It has perfect mix of humor, passion, intrigue and resolve.
Murray’s characters are so unique and her couples are explosive together. She always finds the perfect balance integrating her side characters into every book in the series. I love when you get to read more about the people you came to know and love from previous books.
If you are a fan of this series, you will appreciate this new addition. If you haven’t started them yet you will have no problem reading this as a stand-alone, but it is a great series and I highly recommend starting it.
July 2, 2013
My Review:
I've gotten to read all three of the books in this trilogy and I've enjoyed all three of them. This one was good, too. In fact, this may be my favorite of the trilogy even though this particular trope (that happens midway through the book so we won't discuss the specifics of it) isn't usually one of my favorites.
But the combination of Dwayne's PTSD and Veronica's social awkwardness completely worked for me. It really worked for me because we got to see glimpses of them in the last book as they got to know each other via Skype while Dwayne was deployed. They have that pseudo-friendship to start with although they've never actually met in person before.
When the book begins, you can't help but feel for Dwayne. He's always been the life of the party, but coming back, crowds make him uncomfortable and honestly freak him out. None of his friends see it, but Veronica, who's always sitting back and observing things, does.
Veronica has her own issues. She was raised in the wilds of third world countries by extremely religious parents who definitely did not put the needs of their child first... or honestly, ever even considered them. Her upbringing sounds horrendous and more than borderline abusive. As a result, she's NEVER learned how to relate to people, was never educated, and has no idea about basics like sex or just how basic things work in the American world. She is truly a virgin when it comes to every single social aspect of American life. She simply doesn't know, but has learned not to reveal that because it makes her weird.
But the two of them together are good...for the most part, until Dwayne's past comes back to haunt them. At that point in the book, I hurt so much for Veronica....I just wanted to cry for her. And that was the one thing about this book that bothered me and brought the rating down from a "A" for me...Dwayne truly never got to find out just how innocent Veronica was when they got together. That's never revealed completely in the story and I wanted that for her so he would really understand her difficulties and how much his distrust of her wounded her. Not that I truly blame him either, except for one tiny point which he kept harping on about....because at the point when she said that one thing that he kept on about, it didn't matter anymore. *ugh* And I know that's completely vague, but you'll understand when you read the book. (I'm trying to keep this spoiler-free!)
And you do need to read the book. In fact, you really should read this whole series. I've loved getting to know this group of friends in the Marines. It's been just a fun, entertaining series and coming from a military background, I've thoroughly enjoyed it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I've gotten to read all three of the books in this trilogy and I've enjoyed all three of them. This one was good, too. In fact, this may be my favorite of the trilogy even though this particular trope (that happens midway through the book so we won't discuss the specifics of it) isn't usually one of my favorites.
But the combination of Dwayne's PTSD and Veronica's social awkwardness completely worked for me. It really worked for me because we got to see glimpses of them in the last book as they got to know each other via Skype while Dwayne was deployed. They have that pseudo-friendship to start with although they've never actually met in person before.
When the book begins, you can't help but feel for Dwayne. He's always been the life of the party, but coming back, crowds make him uncomfortable and honestly freak him out. None of his friends see it, but Veronica, who's always sitting back and observing things, does.
Veronica has her own issues. She was raised in the wilds of third world countries by extremely religious parents who definitely did not put the needs of their child first... or honestly, ever even considered them. Her upbringing sounds horrendous and more than borderline abusive. As a result, she's NEVER learned how to relate to people, was never educated, and has no idea about basics like sex or just how basic things work in the American world. She is truly a virgin when it comes to every single social aspect of American life. She simply doesn't know, but has learned not to reveal that because it makes her weird.
But the two of them together are good...for the most part, until Dwayne's past comes back to haunt them. At that point in the book, I hurt so much for Veronica....I just wanted to cry for her. And that was the one thing about this book that bothered me and brought the rating down from a "A" for me...Dwayne truly never got to find out just how innocent Veronica was when they got together. That's never revealed completely in the story and I wanted that for her so he would really understand her difficulties and how much his distrust of her wounded her. Not that I truly blame him either, except for one tiny point which he kept harping on about....because at the point when she said that one thing that he kept on about, it didn't matter anymore. *ugh* And I know that's completely vague, but you'll understand when you read the book. (I'm trying to keep this spoiler-free!)
And you do need to read the book. In fact, you really should read this whole series. I've loved getting to know this group of friends in the Marines. It's been just a fun, entertaining series and coming from a military background, I've thoroughly enjoyed it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
August 2, 2013
Dewayne just got home from a deployment and is having a hard time adjusting to life in civilian world. He has pretty severe flashbacks and seeks help from a chaplain. He does enjoy spending time with his friends and especially Veronica. They skyped a few times when he was trying to reach his friends. He realizes that their talks and her voice got him through some rough times in his deployment.
Veronica is a cousin of one of the other characters in this series. She is very awkward and shy as a result to being raised by religious zealots in war torn third world countries. She left that life to have what she called a normal life. She has a job, a place to live and is studying for her GED. She also wants to try to date and have sex.
This started out so cute it made me giddy. The development of their relationship was slow and sweet. Between his PTSD and her sheltered to the extreme childhood, it was a wonder it happened at all. I liked the characters and was interested in hearing their stories. Then the sex happened and just kept shaking my head. It was so non descriptive it was all most off page. I had to reread the sex to make sure I didn't miss something. Boring. From there it was downhill and I won't read anything more by this author.
Veronica is a cousin of one of the other characters in this series. She is very awkward and shy as a result to being raised by religious zealots in war torn third world countries. She left that life to have what she called a normal life. She has a job, a place to live and is studying for her GED. She also wants to try to date and have sex.
This started out so cute it made me giddy. The development of their relationship was slow and sweet. Between his PTSD and her sheltered to the extreme childhood, it was a wonder it happened at all. I liked the characters and was interested in hearing their stories. Then the sex happened and just kept shaking my head. It was so non descriptive it was all most off page. I had to reread the sex to make sure I didn't miss something. Boring. From there it was downhill and I won't read anything more by this author.
June 11, 2013
"The Officer with the Secret" was just an okay read for me. Captain Dwayne Robertson returns home from being deployed and is a changed man. He struggles to adjust to daily life and has developed PTSD.
Enter Veronica Gibson. Veronica is a woman that struggling to come out of her shell. She's still struggling with inner demons and is trying to be the woman she can be.
Dwayne and Veronica's relationship is kind of like watching two half glasses come together. I guess you could say that they're each other's "missing puzzle pieces." While it was cute to see how they fulfilled the missing void the other one lacked, I still found Dwayne's character a little annoying and over the top and times. I know someone too who has returned from deployment with PTSD so it's not like I'm out of the loop on the matter. It's just, he frustrated me at times.
As for Veronica, well, she was sweet. I could really find myself identifying with her character since she experiences things and feelings like most people in their lives. It's so darn easy to relate to.
Over all though, I just found "The Officer and the Secret" 'alright.' Nothing spectacular really.
Enter Veronica Gibson. Veronica is a woman that struggling to come out of her shell. She's still struggling with inner demons and is trying to be the woman she can be.
Dwayne and Veronica's relationship is kind of like watching two half glasses come together. I guess you could say that they're each other's "missing puzzle pieces." While it was cute to see how they fulfilled the missing void the other one lacked, I still found Dwayne's character a little annoying and over the top and times. I know someone too who has returned from deployment with PTSD so it's not like I'm out of the loop on the matter. It's just, he frustrated me at times.
As for Veronica, well, she was sweet. I could really find myself identifying with her character since she experiences things and feelings like most people in their lives. It's so darn easy to relate to.
Over all though, I just found "The Officer and the Secret" 'alright.' Nothing spectacular really.
May 16, 2014
Very well done straight contemporary romance. It is hard to do a straight contemporary in my opinion. There is no suspense to fill up the plot no historical details etc. So even though this has a hot marine on the cover, it's not military romance because those all have a suspense element really. This guy was fresh off his 3rd tour of duty and he suffered from PTSD. I thought the portrayal of his symptoms and his efforts to overcome it were sensitively done. He also had some other baggage that added conflict. But I really liked him as a character. The heroine was also nicely done. She certainly had baggage to overcome and while the hero helped somewhat with that, just by his existence since he didn't know what her baggage was, she was written such that you knew she would have been okay without him. He didn't fix her. I enjoyed that strength. I liked it well enough that I'm going to search out the first two books in the series.
July 4, 2013
I was really looking forward to this one! Dwayne and Veronica are a great pairing and I enjoyed this book. I do wish we had gotten more on Veronica's background earlier in the story. It seemed to me that so much of this story was wrapped up in Dwayne's past experiences and Veronica had quite a past to deal with herself. I do wish we would've gotten more at the end... especially if this is the end of the series. I mean, things between Jeremy and Madison seemed to be moving along...albeit slowly. I really wanted to know more about everyone!
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February 1, 20211Sexy and wonderful
June 28, 2013
Oh this was so delish! I have adored Dwayne since the first book in the series and have looked forward to him getting his own book since I realized that the trilogy would be about the three officer friends. Sometimes anticipation can get you into trouble, but not this time.
Before I get too far into my review, I just want to let other readers know that this is the third book in a trilogy and they have to be read in order for optimum enjoyment because the characters are recurring and the backdrop and storyline is established in the first book.
Dwayne Robertson has been deployed for seven long months. Its not his first go around with a tour of duty, but for some reason this particular one roughed him up a bit and left him with reintegration issues when he returns back to his stateside assignment. The only thing that really got him through were those Skype convos with Veronica, Skye's mysterious shy cousin. Seeing her in the flesh turns his interest from curiosity to something much warmer- something he has to reject because of the PTSD symptoms he's exhibiting and a sense that they're from two different worlds.
Veronica Gibson has kept her past a secret from all but her cousin. She felt like she had landed on an alien planet when she first came to live with Skye and Tim, but in the months since she has been Madison's roomie she has slowly been figuring out the world around her. Her parents were missionaries in third world countries and they kept her very sheltered and repressed which didn't bode well when she returned to normal life. Now she is skittish about admitting her eccentricities and just wants to be a part of things. At first the big, burly Marine who she had been Skyping with scared her by his bold behavior and size, but then she learns that he's a gentle giant and protector. Dwayne is not for her though even as she feels the pull to him. Her first experiences with dating and relationships should probably be with someone who doesn't set her trembling and make her skittish not to mention Dwayne has made it clear that he doesn't want her anyway.
But as in the way love, when its the right thing; its nigh impossible to resist temptation for long. Dwayne and Veronica eventually get together. Its just a matter of time though before his issues from the past and her secrets have their affect on the fledgling relationship.
The plot of this one is pretty straight up with the relationship and introductions already begun in earlier books. The tension is caused by that feeling of wondering when their individual issues are going to destroy the romance between Dwayne and Veronica. He had a bad experience in the past and now hates lying and distrusts women. Veronica had uncomfortable and painful experiences in the past that make her hide things about herself and lie. Yep, I'm sure you see the trouble brewing.
The characters are all established characters, but I enjoy the fact that the three men and their three ladies are not cookie cutters of each other. Each couple's issues are individualistic and each character though in similar present circumstances are different. Dwayne is a typical sort of hero, but Veronica is one of those heroines that are a bit more difficult for some to swallow. The best way I can explain is that she's like a beta heroine as opposed to an alpha heroine. She comes across as weak and scared of her own shadow not to mention odd. She is so very different from the vivacious and confident Skye or the brash and ballsy Madison. I liked the contrast between Veronica and Dwayne. His needs in a woman were not for someone exciting or someone overtly strong. He needed a calming and sweeter nature. Dwayne is truly a gentle giant and the consummate Marine because he needs to care for and protect. He needs someone who is observant and who can see past his hearty, happy go lucky behavior or stand by him when he has 'freak out' episodes as he calls them.
As to the other characters, I love how the other couples get so much page time even getting rotated in with Dwayne and Veronica's perspectives to tell the story.
I am truly sad to see the series end and I have no reservations recommending this series to those who enjoy Contemporary Military Romance toward the spicy side.
Many thanks to Net Galley for providing the book for review purposes.
Before I get too far into my review, I just want to let other readers know that this is the third book in a trilogy and they have to be read in order for optimum enjoyment because the characters are recurring and the backdrop and storyline is established in the first book.
Dwayne Robertson has been deployed for seven long months. Its not his first go around with a tour of duty, but for some reason this particular one roughed him up a bit and left him with reintegration issues when he returns back to his stateside assignment. The only thing that really got him through were those Skype convos with Veronica, Skye's mysterious shy cousin. Seeing her in the flesh turns his interest from curiosity to something much warmer- something he has to reject because of the PTSD symptoms he's exhibiting and a sense that they're from two different worlds.
Veronica Gibson has kept her past a secret from all but her cousin. She felt like she had landed on an alien planet when she first came to live with Skye and Tim, but in the months since she has been Madison's roomie she has slowly been figuring out the world around her. Her parents were missionaries in third world countries and they kept her very sheltered and repressed which didn't bode well when she returned to normal life. Now she is skittish about admitting her eccentricities and just wants to be a part of things. At first the big, burly Marine who she had been Skyping with scared her by his bold behavior and size, but then she learns that he's a gentle giant and protector. Dwayne is not for her though even as she feels the pull to him. Her first experiences with dating and relationships should probably be with someone who doesn't set her trembling and make her skittish not to mention Dwayne has made it clear that he doesn't want her anyway.
But as in the way love, when its the right thing; its nigh impossible to resist temptation for long. Dwayne and Veronica eventually get together. Its just a matter of time though before his issues from the past and her secrets have their affect on the fledgling relationship.
The plot of this one is pretty straight up with the relationship and introductions already begun in earlier books. The tension is caused by that feeling of wondering when their individual issues are going to destroy the romance between Dwayne and Veronica. He had a bad experience in the past and now hates lying and distrusts women. Veronica had uncomfortable and painful experiences in the past that make her hide things about herself and lie. Yep, I'm sure you see the trouble brewing.
The characters are all established characters, but I enjoy the fact that the three men and their three ladies are not cookie cutters of each other. Each couple's issues are individualistic and each character though in similar present circumstances are different. Dwayne is a typical sort of hero, but Veronica is one of those heroines that are a bit more difficult for some to swallow. The best way I can explain is that she's like a beta heroine as opposed to an alpha heroine. She comes across as weak and scared of her own shadow not to mention odd. She is so very different from the vivacious and confident Skye or the brash and ballsy Madison. I liked the contrast between Veronica and Dwayne. His needs in a woman were not for someone exciting or someone overtly strong. He needed a calming and sweeter nature. Dwayne is truly a gentle giant and the consummate Marine because he needs to care for and protect. He needs someone who is observant and who can see past his hearty, happy go lucky behavior or stand by him when he has 'freak out' episodes as he calls them.
As to the other characters, I love how the other couples get so much page time even getting rotated in with Dwayne and Veronica's perspectives to tell the story.
I am truly sad to see the series end and I have no reservations recommending this series to those who enjoy Contemporary Military Romance toward the spicy side.
Many thanks to Net Galley for providing the book for review purposes.
June 22, 2013
A man that has trust issues and because of that it can destroy a good relationship that he has going with a shy girl, but she also has secrets that she needs to tell.
Dwayne Robertson has just returned from deployment and all he wants to do is go to his apartment and settle down, order pizza and see some TV, only his friends have a planned welcome home surprise party. The only good thing that came from that party is him finally meeting in person the one woman that helped him survive some nights during his deployment, Veronica. When he spoke with her on Skype they laughed and got along but now it seemed that she was shying away from him. Yes he was a big hunk of a guy but she was skittish and he knew that she was hiding something. Even though he was not in the front line of the war he was still suffering from PTSD and it affected him at any time of the day. Only he found that Veronica did not weird out on him, she actually talked him through his episodes.
Veronica Gibson had not been in the states for very long, she didn’t even know that she had an aunt, uncle much less a cousin. She moved in with her cousin Skye but soon she got married and she moved in with another friend Madison. Veronica had a job and getting money but she was also trying to have better her life. When she was with her parents she didn’t go to school, she didn’t have a boyfriend and the one time she kissed a boy oh boy. Now Veronica is drawn to this big man there is something about him that affect her body in a weird way. She is attracted to him but she doesn’t know the first thing about dating. Not only have that but the first time that she, Dwayne and Madison decided to a movie night she finds herself pinned down with his enormous body above her. Dwayne is suffering from PTSD but guess what she is not affected by it she actually helps him, calms him down.
As time passes Veronica is coming out of her shell and she is ready to make a change in her life, starts dating but after that even make a change in her appearance. Dwayne finds himself looking forward to seeing Veronica and the more time he spends with her the more he starts seeing her change. Veronica in the other hand is ready for even more but she knows that she will have to say something soon about childhood, her real life. Dwayne needs to remember that Veronica is not Blair he needs to learn to trust or he is going to lose the best thing in his life.
Wow what can I say this was an awesome read! I do have to say that I am going to have to go back and buy book 1 and 2 of this series to see how the other two couples got together. I fell in love with Veronica as soon as started coming out of her shell she had a little attitude going. She was so clueless at times that I found myself laughing. Now how about the hunk of Dwayne, now he was an alpha male that could not see that he was already half in love with Veronica but I loved how he was able to talk about what he was going through about some of his life. That he was able to confide in a woman that had only the best intentions. Then I can’t forget the gang, they were a fun a crazy bunch. This story is well written and Ms. Murray did a fantastic job in making this story as realistic as possible. The sex scenes are hot and steamy. I liked that their relationship took off slowly and they gave themselves time to date, to get to know each other but they both held back. The story moves at a steady pace with highs and lows. The plot is intriguing with wonderful characters that I need to get to know as soon possible.
Ms. Murray had everything in this story, romance, laughter, happiness but most of all love. If you want a book that you can relax one afternoon and just get lost this book is for you.
Dwayne Robertson has just returned from deployment and all he wants to do is go to his apartment and settle down, order pizza and see some TV, only his friends have a planned welcome home surprise party. The only good thing that came from that party is him finally meeting in person the one woman that helped him survive some nights during his deployment, Veronica. When he spoke with her on Skype they laughed and got along but now it seemed that she was shying away from him. Yes he was a big hunk of a guy but she was skittish and he knew that she was hiding something. Even though he was not in the front line of the war he was still suffering from PTSD and it affected him at any time of the day. Only he found that Veronica did not weird out on him, she actually talked him through his episodes.
Veronica Gibson had not been in the states for very long, she didn’t even know that she had an aunt, uncle much less a cousin. She moved in with her cousin Skye but soon she got married and she moved in with another friend Madison. Veronica had a job and getting money but she was also trying to have better her life. When she was with her parents she didn’t go to school, she didn’t have a boyfriend and the one time she kissed a boy oh boy. Now Veronica is drawn to this big man there is something about him that affect her body in a weird way. She is attracted to him but she doesn’t know the first thing about dating. Not only have that but the first time that she, Dwayne and Madison decided to a movie night she finds herself pinned down with his enormous body above her. Dwayne is suffering from PTSD but guess what she is not affected by it she actually helps him, calms him down.
As time passes Veronica is coming out of her shell and she is ready to make a change in her life, starts dating but after that even make a change in her appearance. Dwayne finds himself looking forward to seeing Veronica and the more time he spends with her the more he starts seeing her change. Veronica in the other hand is ready for even more but she knows that she will have to say something soon about childhood, her real life. Dwayne needs to remember that Veronica is not Blair he needs to learn to trust or he is going to lose the best thing in his life.
Wow what can I say this was an awesome read! I do have to say that I am going to have to go back and buy book 1 and 2 of this series to see how the other two couples got together. I fell in love with Veronica as soon as started coming out of her shell she had a little attitude going. She was so clueless at times that I found myself laughing. Now how about the hunk of Dwayne, now he was an alpha male that could not see that he was already half in love with Veronica but I loved how he was able to talk about what he was going through about some of his life. That he was able to confide in a woman that had only the best intentions. Then I can’t forget the gang, they were a fun a crazy bunch. This story is well written and Ms. Murray did a fantastic job in making this story as realistic as possible. The sex scenes are hot and steamy. I liked that their relationship took off slowly and they gave themselves time to date, to get to know each other but they both held back. The story moves at a steady pace with highs and lows. The plot is intriguing with wonderful characters that I need to get to know as soon possible.
Ms. Murray had everything in this story, romance, laughter, happiness but most of all love. If you want a book that you can relax one afternoon and just get lost this book is for you.
June 24, 2013
4.5 stars! You can also find my review on my blog:
http://www.read-love-blog.com/2013/06...
The Officer and the Secret is the third book in Jeanette Murray’s Semper Fi Series and like the other two in this series, this book was fantastic!
Dwayne Robertson is back from deployment and is more than happy to be home. He’s happy to see his friends and get back into the normal, every day life here in the States. He’s also happy to finally meet the girl who had unexpectedly given him a lifeline to cling to when he was away. Even though he and Veronica had only spoken to a few times on skype, she has made such an impact on him and he needs to explore more of his feelings for her and see if they can build on what they have. But this deployment had been rougher than expected and Dwayne isn’t having such an easy time getting back into things. He may need Veronica and her lifeline more than he thought….
Veronica Gibson is finally feeling more and more like a normal woman in today’s times. She had lived a very sheltered life, to put it mildly, and has had some struggles with adjusting to the way life was lived in these current times. Fortunately she has her cousin, Skye, and her new friends to help her learn how to be a modern woman…and with that comes dating. Not fully knowing if she’s ready to jump into the dating pool just yet, she is sure of one thing…the attraction she feels toward the big, handsome southern Marine just back from deployment. Nervous and unsure of how to handle those feelings, she realizes quickly that she may be in over her head. But she also realizes Dwayne may need her help with his reentry into life here and they just may have more in common than she ever imagined.
Together Dwayne and Veronica have somewhat similar issues with life at the moment, and they find their mutual attraction has become very strong and very real. Just when they think they’re on the right track to starting a relationship and have taken steps that were controlled, well though out & responsible WHAM! life throws them a curve ball. Will they be able to handle the newest obstacle?
This is one of my favorite series and I was eagerly waiting for Dwayne’s story and I was so happy with how it all played out! Dwayne is a big ol southern teddy bear with a huge heart. He’s loyal and strong….all wrapped into a deliciously handsome package. He knows how to make the gals swoon with his sweeter than sugar accent but also knows when to take things slowly and give space that is sometimes needed. Veronica, although still working through her own issues, knows what she wants out of life and is willing to learn how to get it. She learns that taking risks is all a part of life and sometimes those risks reap great rewards. It was really great to see her grow and turn into an amazing woman by the end of the book. Dwayne and Veronica as a couple are a great match, totally balancing each other out and willing to lean on one another when they needed it. That being said, they sure do have their share of struggles in this book, but it made the ending all the sweeter!! And as always, it is great to see the characters form the first two books in the series…Tim and Skye and Madison and Jeremy. They really are a dynamic group and I sure hope we get to see more from them!
Thank you, Jeanette, for another kick ass addition to the Semper Fi Series!
*I received an advance copy of this book n exchange for an honest review
http://www.read-love-blog.com/2013/06...
The Officer and the Secret is the third book in Jeanette Murray’s Semper Fi Series and like the other two in this series, this book was fantastic!
Dwayne Robertson is back from deployment and is more than happy to be home. He’s happy to see his friends and get back into the normal, every day life here in the States. He’s also happy to finally meet the girl who had unexpectedly given him a lifeline to cling to when he was away. Even though he and Veronica had only spoken to a few times on skype, she has made such an impact on him and he needs to explore more of his feelings for her and see if they can build on what they have. But this deployment had been rougher than expected and Dwayne isn’t having such an easy time getting back into things. He may need Veronica and her lifeline more than he thought….
Veronica Gibson is finally feeling more and more like a normal woman in today’s times. She had lived a very sheltered life, to put it mildly, and has had some struggles with adjusting to the way life was lived in these current times. Fortunately she has her cousin, Skye, and her new friends to help her learn how to be a modern woman…and with that comes dating. Not fully knowing if she’s ready to jump into the dating pool just yet, she is sure of one thing…the attraction she feels toward the big, handsome southern Marine just back from deployment. Nervous and unsure of how to handle those feelings, she realizes quickly that she may be in over her head. But she also realizes Dwayne may need her help with his reentry into life here and they just may have more in common than she ever imagined.
Together Dwayne and Veronica have somewhat similar issues with life at the moment, and they find their mutual attraction has become very strong and very real. Just when they think they’re on the right track to starting a relationship and have taken steps that were controlled, well though out & responsible WHAM! life throws them a curve ball. Will they be able to handle the newest obstacle?
This is one of my favorite series and I was eagerly waiting for Dwayne’s story and I was so happy with how it all played out! Dwayne is a big ol southern teddy bear with a huge heart. He’s loyal and strong….all wrapped into a deliciously handsome package. He knows how to make the gals swoon with his sweeter than sugar accent but also knows when to take things slowly and give space that is sometimes needed. Veronica, although still working through her own issues, knows what she wants out of life and is willing to learn how to get it. She learns that taking risks is all a part of life and sometimes those risks reap great rewards. It was really great to see her grow and turn into an amazing woman by the end of the book. Dwayne and Veronica as a couple are a great match, totally balancing each other out and willing to lean on one another when they needed it. That being said, they sure do have their share of struggles in this book, but it made the ending all the sweeter!! And as always, it is great to see the characters form the first two books in the series…Tim and Skye and Madison and Jeremy. They really are a dynamic group and I sure hope we get to see more from them!
Thank you, Jeanette, for another kick ass addition to the Semper Fi Series!
*I received an advance copy of this book n exchange for an honest review
June 6, 2013
Jeannette does not disappoint with this third book in her Semper Fi series!
Dwayne is back stateside after a rougher than he'd expected deployment. During his deployment he inadvertently met up with Veronica, his buddy's wife's cousin, via Skype. Unbeknownst to Veronica, she helped him through a lot of rough patches in his deployment and her sweetness soothed him. The last thing Dwayne expects when he returns is to be so drawn to Veronica. He is suffering from PTSD, trying to feel 'normal' again, and isn't sure if it's a good idea to persue a relationship at this point in his life. Dwayne also has his own scars from the past...a failed marriage that left him feeling betrayed and used.
Veronica has a past of her own, although is is completely different from Dwayne's. Only her cousin Skye knows the details, and Veronica doesn't like to share her past with others for fear of being judged. She is just as drawn to Dwayne as he is to her. He doesn't scare her, his PTSD certainly does not scare her...she just wants to be with him. Dwayne knows Veronica is hiding something. He won't push her, but as he gets to know her, he is more determined to find out more about her.
Veronica and Dwayne slowly move forward with their relationship and there is a lot of sizzle between them! Dwayne is just as tender and caring towards Veronica as she is to him. But Dwayne's past and PTSD still haunt him, and he is always waiting for the other shoe to drop, not believing something this good can actually be true. When the surprising happens and Veronica's secrets start to come out, can Dwayne forgive her her deceit or will it drive them apart? Will they both be strong enough to acknowledge mistakes made, leave the past where it belongs, and have a future together?
I loved, loved The Officer and The Secret just as much as I loved the first two books in this series. Jeannette gives us realistic characters that you will want to spend time with! I really just wanted to wrap my arms around Dwayne! He is back from war, has been through so much and is dealing not only with those demons but the demons from his past. Even though he has so much inner turmoil, he is still a really great, strong, honest (and really hot!) guy who is so perfectly matched with Veronica. I felt for him for what he's going through, and he handles everything so well. I really enjoyed Veronica too, and watching her come into herself in her new life. She is a bit unsure of herself, but she is also fun, big hearted and with the exception of not discussing her past, is refreshingly open and honest. She knows exactly what Dwayne needs...even when he doesn't, and you really find yourself hoping they can find their way together. Jeannette made me really feel for Veronica and Dwayne!
Jeannette made The Officer and The Secret even more fun by bringing back the characters from the first two books. They weren't just on the sidelines looking in once in a while, but played an integral part of the story! It was fun to catch up with them again and see where they were in their lives now. Even though the first two books tied in so well and brought so much depth to this book, I honestly think this book can easily be read alone if you haven't read the first two.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a riveting romance with a super hot Marine and a sweet heroine!
Dwayne is back stateside after a rougher than he'd expected deployment. During his deployment he inadvertently met up with Veronica, his buddy's wife's cousin, via Skype. Unbeknownst to Veronica, she helped him through a lot of rough patches in his deployment and her sweetness soothed him. The last thing Dwayne expects when he returns is to be so drawn to Veronica. He is suffering from PTSD, trying to feel 'normal' again, and isn't sure if it's a good idea to persue a relationship at this point in his life. Dwayne also has his own scars from the past...a failed marriage that left him feeling betrayed and used.
Veronica has a past of her own, although is is completely different from Dwayne's. Only her cousin Skye knows the details, and Veronica doesn't like to share her past with others for fear of being judged. She is just as drawn to Dwayne as he is to her. He doesn't scare her, his PTSD certainly does not scare her...she just wants to be with him. Dwayne knows Veronica is hiding something. He won't push her, but as he gets to know her, he is more determined to find out more about her.
Veronica and Dwayne slowly move forward with their relationship and there is a lot of sizzle between them! Dwayne is just as tender and caring towards Veronica as she is to him. But Dwayne's past and PTSD still haunt him, and he is always waiting for the other shoe to drop, not believing something this good can actually be true. When the surprising happens and Veronica's secrets start to come out, can Dwayne forgive her her deceit or will it drive them apart? Will they both be strong enough to acknowledge mistakes made, leave the past where it belongs, and have a future together?
I loved, loved The Officer and The Secret just as much as I loved the first two books in this series. Jeannette gives us realistic characters that you will want to spend time with! I really just wanted to wrap my arms around Dwayne! He is back from war, has been through so much and is dealing not only with those demons but the demons from his past. Even though he has so much inner turmoil, he is still a really great, strong, honest (and really hot!) guy who is so perfectly matched with Veronica. I felt for him for what he's going through, and he handles everything so well. I really enjoyed Veronica too, and watching her come into herself in her new life. She is a bit unsure of herself, but she is also fun, big hearted and with the exception of not discussing her past, is refreshingly open and honest. She knows exactly what Dwayne needs...even when he doesn't, and you really find yourself hoping they can find their way together. Jeannette made me really feel for Veronica and Dwayne!
Jeannette made The Officer and The Secret even more fun by bringing back the characters from the first two books. They weren't just on the sidelines looking in once in a while, but played an integral part of the story! It was fun to catch up with them again and see where they were in their lives now. Even though the first two books tied in so well and brought so much depth to this book, I honestly think this book can easily be read alone if you haven't read the first two.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a riveting romance with a super hot Marine and a sweet heroine!
July 26, 2013
For this review and more visit my blog
The Officer and the Secret is the third book in Jeanette Murray’s Semper Fi series. Previous to this I have read the second book in the series and to be honest really disliked it. I have a personal rule to not judge a series on one book so I reluctantly picked up The Officer and the Secret and I am really glad I did as it was much, much better than its predecessor.
Veronica is trying to adapt to life in America after living a stifled life with her missionary and extremely religious parents. She had been communicating with Dwayne, a friend of her cousin, for a while whilst he was deployed with the Marines but now he is back and meeting him in the flesh unleashes all sorts of feelings and cravings she is not sure she is ready for. Slowly a relationship develops but when something neither had planned happens Veronica must fight to keep her man.
I really enjoyed this book it was a lovely story about two really likable people. It is not always an easy read and there were moments where I wanted to bang their heads together but for the most part it was really sweet and really enjoyable.
What really worked for me were the characters, I found them quite realistic and there were things I loved and hated about both of them. Veronica was often annoying she is far too rigid but that was okay, no matter what she did I couldn’t feel any real negative feelings for her. I felt so sorry for her and knew that she was trying her best to change her life, none of it was her fault and I really admired her courage.
There were some moments within the romance where she was a tad harder to deal with. I really hated that she wasn’t upfront and honest with Dwayne before they got physically involved. She kept the truth from him even lied to him and he really didn’t deserve it. Taking into account her upbringing and frame of mind I was surprised that she got physical with Dwayne so quickly and that it was her pushing for intimacy.
Dwayne was really great. He was a real soft hearted southern gentleman who was impossible to dislike. I really loved that he sought help for the issues he had when he returned from war, all too often in books like this the character suffers with PTSD without getting help but Dwayne knew his limits and got the aid he needed.
I do think that he was very harsh towards Veronica near the end at a time where she needed his support and not his anger. I understood his feelings for him but at the same time thought he was being very unfair.
I ended up liking this book a lot more than I thought I would and it was a pleasant surprise. I will read the other book in this series and more from this author in the future.
The publisher provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
July 4, 2013
I want to warn readers up front that this is the last book in a trilogy and unfortunately, I haven't read books one or two, but I do own them. I don't normally recommend reading books out of order, but in general I didn't have a hard time understanding this one without having read them. Reading the first two books is high on my list now as I throughly enjoyed this book.
The trilogy is about three marine buddies, Tim, Jeremy and Dwayne. Tim found his love story with Skye and Jeremy with Tim's little sister, Madison. Dewayne Robertson is up next and man did his southern accent (in my mind as well as story) wooed me into loving him from the start.
Dewayne is back from serving a tour only to come home and feel lost when she should feel safe. Little things are setting him off...a torn tire in the road, being woke up with a movie filled with gunfire in the background. Nightmares waking him from sleep. It's a struggle to accept that he is safe when he spent so much time being on high alert. But through it all he had one constant that comforted him, Veronica Gibson, Skye's cousin.
Veronica Gibson keeps her past a well guarded secret from everyone but Skye. Growing up with ultra religious parents who felt it was they life's mission to save other people in third world countries, Veronica lacks the social skills to deal with being an American in modern society. Without a high school diploma, Veronica studies daily for her GED, while working as a waitress to pay the rent on a two bedroom apartment she shares with Madison.
After a passionate kiss with Dewayne where he tells her he is no good for her, Veronica is ready to start dating and move on with her past. But every date she compares to Dewayne till they both can't fight their passionate lust for each other. While both are still dealing with issues, Dewayne has learned that sharing them with his close friends helps in the healing process. But Veronica holds on to her secrets longer than she should. Dewayne hates nothing more than lies and when life throws them a curve ball, the secrets start piling up until the downfall from them almost overwhelms them.
The story is straight forward and you suspect where it is going early on. It doesn't fail to leave you heartbroken, excited, and swooning all at the same time though. These two needed each other in the worst way and through it all, they fight it, fall for it, fight more from it and ultimately...well you have to read to find out.
While this may be the end of the series, I am looking forward to reading the first two books and seeing where these characters came from.
I recommend this story to anyone who loves military men, the women who fall for them and the hard life they lead to protect us. It's a love story that hit all the right notes with me.
The trilogy is about three marine buddies, Tim, Jeremy and Dwayne. Tim found his love story with Skye and Jeremy with Tim's little sister, Madison. Dewayne Robertson is up next and man did his southern accent (in my mind as well as story) wooed me into loving him from the start.
Dewayne is back from serving a tour only to come home and feel lost when she should feel safe. Little things are setting him off...a torn tire in the road, being woke up with a movie filled with gunfire in the background. Nightmares waking him from sleep. It's a struggle to accept that he is safe when he spent so much time being on high alert. But through it all he had one constant that comforted him, Veronica Gibson, Skye's cousin.
Veronica Gibson keeps her past a well guarded secret from everyone but Skye. Growing up with ultra religious parents who felt it was they life's mission to save other people in third world countries, Veronica lacks the social skills to deal with being an American in modern society. Without a high school diploma, Veronica studies daily for her GED, while working as a waitress to pay the rent on a two bedroom apartment she shares with Madison.
After a passionate kiss with Dewayne where he tells her he is no good for her, Veronica is ready to start dating and move on with her past. But every date she compares to Dewayne till they both can't fight their passionate lust for each other. While both are still dealing with issues, Dewayne has learned that sharing them with his close friends helps in the healing process. But Veronica holds on to her secrets longer than she should. Dewayne hates nothing more than lies and when life throws them a curve ball, the secrets start piling up until the downfall from them almost overwhelms them.
The story is straight forward and you suspect where it is going early on. It doesn't fail to leave you heartbroken, excited, and swooning all at the same time though. These two needed each other in the worst way and through it all, they fight it, fall for it, fight more from it and ultimately...well you have to read to find out.
While this may be the end of the series, I am looking forward to reading the first two books and seeing where these characters came from.
I recommend this story to anyone who loves military men, the women who fall for them and the hard life they lead to protect us. It's a love story that hit all the right notes with me.
November 7, 2013
The Officer and the Secret by Jeanette Murray is third book of the Semper Fi Series, although it works fine as a stand alone novel. Since this is the only book I have read in the series I noticed that the only things I missed out on is some of the back story for this particular circle of friends. Captain Dwayne Robertson has just returned home from a rough deployment and just needs some down time and normalcy. A surprise party and the inclusion of Veronica Gibson, his Skype buddy that helped keep him steady during his time overseas, throws him off-kilter more than he cares to admit. As Dwayne struggles with readjusting to home life he gets closer to Veronica, but they each carry their fair share of baggage and a Veronica's silence about her past and present might be more than Dwayne can handle. An unexpected complication could force them to lay their cards on the table, or drive them apart.
The Officer and the Secret starts of with a previously established attraction between Dwayne and Veronica, but both keeping their distance for various reasons. I found Dwayne's friendships and issues acclimating to life at home realistic. His Post Traumatic Stress symptoms were true to life, and neither downplayed or over done. I liked his honesty and willingness to work on his issues. He seed to be a playful, but charming, gentleman in every sense of the word. Veronica's past and efforts to fit in are a little harder for me to swallow. I suppose there are those out there living her kind of life, but her efforts to hide her unusual childhood and struggles to better herself seem a little out of character when paired with her honesty in other aspects of her life. But, I have never been in her position or met anyone that has, so as far as I know that could be exactly how someone would behave and think. I think the final additions of Dwayne's previous relationship issue, and the ultimate complication at the end, were unnecessary in the grand scheme of things, but did force the pair to finally work things out and find their happily ever after. As with most real relationships, I felt like if they had just sat down and had a serious conversation at some point, without anyone glossing over what they wanted to hide, everything could have been resolved and everyone happy much sooner in the story.
The Officer and the Secret is a contemporary romance with characters that felt real, at least for the most part. I felt that it could have gone deeper with the original issues the main characters faced in coming together, without as much time and a larger crisis taking part in the story. However, it was still a fun summer read and one that I thing will appeal to fans of the author, particularly those that have enjoyed the previous two books in this series.
The Officer and the Secret starts of with a previously established attraction between Dwayne and Veronica, but both keeping their distance for various reasons. I found Dwayne's friendships and issues acclimating to life at home realistic. His Post Traumatic Stress symptoms were true to life, and neither downplayed or over done. I liked his honesty and willingness to work on his issues. He seed to be a playful, but charming, gentleman in every sense of the word. Veronica's past and efforts to fit in are a little harder for me to swallow. I suppose there are those out there living her kind of life, but her efforts to hide her unusual childhood and struggles to better herself seem a little out of character when paired with her honesty in other aspects of her life. But, I have never been in her position or met anyone that has, so as far as I know that could be exactly how someone would behave and think. I think the final additions of Dwayne's previous relationship issue, and the ultimate complication at the end, were unnecessary in the grand scheme of things, but did force the pair to finally work things out and find their happily ever after. As with most real relationships, I felt like if they had just sat down and had a serious conversation at some point, without anyone glossing over what they wanted to hide, everything could have been resolved and everyone happy much sooner in the story.
The Officer and the Secret is a contemporary romance with characters that felt real, at least for the most part. I felt that it could have gone deeper with the original issues the main characters faced in coming together, without as much time and a larger crisis taking part in the story. However, it was still a fun summer read and one that I thing will appeal to fans of the author, particularly those that have enjoyed the previous two books in this series.
September 29, 2013
"Office and the Secret" is the third book in the Semper Fi Series and one that I had been looking forward to reading since the very beginning. I always liked Dwayne! He was a great friend to both the heroes from the previous books and it was his turn to get his HEA.
I really liked that Jeanette added a reality to the whole "soldier returns home" story line. As the synopsis said, he had a rough deployment and we shouldn't expect him to be 'alright'. Dwayne is suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and this is common for solders who return home from deployment. Including this to the story line, not only helped the move the story along, but also added dept and a sense of realism.
I liked that Veronica from the very beginning of her introduction wanted to take control of her own life, be independent and grow as an individual. I do wish that her past wasn't made out to be such a secret/mystery as a.) she's not at fault for anything b.) her past is her past and she should be able to recognize that and not continue to be ashamed and c.) she's not the first and will not be the last person in the world to have a similar upbringing.
Dwayne and Veronica made a cute couple from the moment they first chatted via Skype. The chemistry was instant and while both state to their friends that neither of them is ready or wants a relationship, they do end up together. They are still in the 'getting to know each other' stage, yet, both have secrets and don't truly talk to each other. Some, no many of the issues that came up could have easily been solved or not even occurred if Veronica would have been honest from the very beginning or at least had come clean once they got together and if Dwayne would have given her the opportunity to explain things once the truth came out.
While I understood where Dwayne was coming from, I believe his actions were a bit on the immature side of things. Again, I get it, being burned in the past sucks, but we should give people the chance to at least tell their side of the story. Communication is key in any type of relationship.
While a good read overall, I wish I would have loved it as much as I did the other previous 2 books in the series.
This and other reviews available at Viviana, Enchantress of Books
I really liked that Jeanette added a reality to the whole "soldier returns home" story line. As the synopsis said, he had a rough deployment and we shouldn't expect him to be 'alright'. Dwayne is suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and this is common for solders who return home from deployment. Including this to the story line, not only helped the move the story along, but also added dept and a sense of realism.
I liked that Veronica from the very beginning of her introduction wanted to take control of her own life, be independent and grow as an individual. I do wish that her past wasn't made out to be such a secret/mystery as a.) she's not at fault for anything b.) her past is her past and she should be able to recognize that and not continue to be ashamed and c.) she's not the first and will not be the last person in the world to have a similar upbringing.
Dwayne and Veronica made a cute couple from the moment they first chatted via Skype. The chemistry was instant and while both state to their friends that neither of them is ready or wants a relationship, they do end up together. They are still in the 'getting to know each other' stage, yet, both have secrets and don't truly talk to each other. Some, no many of the issues that came up could have easily been solved or not even occurred if Veronica would have been honest from the very beginning or at least had come clean once they got together and if Dwayne would have given her the opportunity to explain things once the truth came out.
While I understood where Dwayne was coming from, I believe his actions were a bit on the immature side of things. Again, I get it, being burned in the past sucks, but we should give people the chance to at least tell their side of the story. Communication is key in any type of relationship.
While a good read overall, I wish I would have loved it as much as I did the other previous 2 books in the series.
This and other reviews available at Viviana, Enchantress of Books
July 5, 2013
For those of you who think chivalry is dead, The Officer and the Secret by Janette Murray is a must read. This was a fun, refreshing and simply well written book. If you are looking for a hot and steamy love scenes, this story had a few, but the rest of the book was just a great story line with great writing skills. This was my first time reading Murray's work, but I assure you that it will not be my last.
The Officer and the Secret ( Semper Fidelis. Always Faithful.) is the story of a Captain Dwayne Roberts, a soldier who has come home and is struggling to assimilate back into civilian life, and finds the one person who made his life more calm is Veronica Gibson, a small mousy, homely but beautiful cousin of a close friend who wrote to him during a difficult deployment. He finds her simple manner and beauty a refreshing change from the deceptive women he has dated in the past. he knows that Veronica is very shy, but doesn't realize the extent of the secrets she is keeping. They find themselves attracted to each other because of the very things that make hem both an oddity. With stories of dominant Alfa males being the current romance trend, it was really refreshing to read about a dominant guy with real life issues and questions about himself, love and his future, and how to make sure that Veronica is a part of it all.
Murray is definitely on my "A" list. She is one of those authors that every romance readers should follow. Like a good home-cooked meal, her stories are simple pleasures to experience. She can really make an plot come alive. I was eager to know what would come next as I turned each page. Before I knew it, I was at the end of the book and still looking for more. I can't wait to read the next soldiers story. Readers won't want to miss even one book of this series. This is a must read!
The Officer and the Secret ( Semper Fidelis. Always Faithful.) is the story of a Captain Dwayne Roberts, a soldier who has come home and is struggling to assimilate back into civilian life, and finds the one person who made his life more calm is Veronica Gibson, a small mousy, homely but beautiful cousin of a close friend who wrote to him during a difficult deployment. He finds her simple manner and beauty a refreshing change from the deceptive women he has dated in the past. he knows that Veronica is very shy, but doesn't realize the extent of the secrets she is keeping. They find themselves attracted to each other because of the very things that make hem both an oddity. With stories of dominant Alfa males being the current romance trend, it was really refreshing to read about a dominant guy with real life issues and questions about himself, love and his future, and how to make sure that Veronica is a part of it all.
Murray is definitely on my "A" list. She is one of those authors that every romance readers should follow. Like a good home-cooked meal, her stories are simple pleasures to experience. She can really make an plot come alive. I was eager to know what would come next as I turned each page. Before I knew it, I was at the end of the book and still looking for more. I can't wait to read the next soldiers story. Readers won't want to miss even one book of this series. This is a must read!
July 8, 2013
Officer and the Secret is the third book in Murray’s Semper Fidelis series about three marines and the women they love. Captain Dwayne Roberts is back from his latest deployment and is having adjustment issues. He is happy to meet up with his two best friends and to meet Veronica Gibson, a young woman who had been Skyping him while he was overseas. Veronica is the cousin of Skye the soon to be wife of Dwayne’s friend Tim.
Veronica has also had a tough time with assimilating into the group because of her extremely restricted childhood with her missionary parents. She keeps her background a secret as well as her lack of formal education. She and Dwayne are paired off by their friends and by their mutual interest in each other but they are both wary of relationships. Dwayne has a past relationship that colors his attitude toward his interactions with Veronica and she is intimidated by the possibility of them getting serious and even by Dwayne’s size and physicality.
This was a cute romance with a serious theme. Dwayne and Veronica are basically nice people with emotional issues that make it hard for them to reach out. The supporting characters provide a sense of normalcy for both Dwayne and Veronica and give help and advice when they need it. The two other couples in the book are the ones featured in the previous books and had their ups and downs as well so they are good sounding boards for this couple. I thought that the author did a good job of portraying the struggles returning veterans go through and how they can work through them with the proper help and support. Even Veronica’s far from normal situation seems realistic as written in this book.
There is enough of the backstory included to make this story a standalone if the other books have not been read but not so much as to be annoying. If you haven’t read them you will want to after reading this book.
Veronica has also had a tough time with assimilating into the group because of her extremely restricted childhood with her missionary parents. She keeps her background a secret as well as her lack of formal education. She and Dwayne are paired off by their friends and by their mutual interest in each other but they are both wary of relationships. Dwayne has a past relationship that colors his attitude toward his interactions with Veronica and she is intimidated by the possibility of them getting serious and even by Dwayne’s size and physicality.
This was a cute romance with a serious theme. Dwayne and Veronica are basically nice people with emotional issues that make it hard for them to reach out. The supporting characters provide a sense of normalcy for both Dwayne and Veronica and give help and advice when they need it. The two other couples in the book are the ones featured in the previous books and had their ups and downs as well so they are good sounding boards for this couple. I thought that the author did a good job of portraying the struggles returning veterans go through and how they can work through them with the proper help and support. Even Veronica’s far from normal situation seems realistic as written in this book.
There is enough of the backstory included to make this story a standalone if the other books have not been read but not so much as to be annoying. If you haven’t read them you will want to after reading this book.
June 20, 2013
You can find my complete review and other information at
The Brunette Librarian’s Blog
The Officer and the Secret is the third book in the Semper Fi Series, following The Officer Says "I Do" and The Officer Breaks the Rules. Finally the story of Veronica and Dwight!! It seems like I’ve been waiting foreva, so I just had to savor this one like ice cream.
Dwight has always been the largest and most resistant of the three marines from the story. The only soldier on military leave, much of the second book was spent as he was overseas in an active military location. He has met Veronica, the quiet cousin of Skye from the first book, through Skype.
Low key and comfortable with one another, these two people who have had trouble in their past, find a somewhat peace with one another. I loved how their relationship grew almost as if a dance. Veronica, having lived as a missionary, had to learn how to fit in with society. Dwight, coming back from a war zone, had to confront his demons and Veronica is a perfect match. She’s neither pushy nor dumb and is the perfect mix for this hardened marine.
The Officer and the Secret is the third book in the Semper Fi Series, following The Officer Says "I Do" and The Officer Breaks the Rules. Finally the story of Veronica and Dwight!! It seems like I’ve been waiting foreva, so I just had to savor this one like ice cream.
Dwight has always been the largest and most resistant of the three marines from the story. The only soldier on military leave, much of the second book was spent as he was overseas in an active military location. He has met Veronica, the quiet cousin of Skye from the first book, through Skype.
Low key and comfortable with one another, these two people who have had trouble in their past, find a somewhat peace with one another. I loved how their relationship grew almost as if a dance. Veronica, having lived as a missionary, had to learn how to fit in with society. Dwight, coming back from a war zone, had to confront his demons and Veronica is a perfect match. She’s neither pushy nor dumb and is the perfect mix for this hardened marine.
June 26, 2013
Received an ARC for an honest review
4 Stars
This book is the third in a series, but can be read as a standalone. This book has a lot of the couples from books one and two in it. I would recommend reading them all.
Veronica has lead a very sheltered life. She was raised by her missionary parents and they constantly traveled from one third world country to another. She didn't even get the chance to go to school. Finally after 26 years of living this life she heads back to the states and goes to her aunt and uncles house. There she decides to move in with her cousin and her husband. She wants to fit in, but is unsure how. She has never had friends or even dated. This will all be a learning process for her.
Dwayne is a marine, just coming home from a tour in Afghanistan. He is having to learn how to become a civilian again. He is having issues with this return and he doesn't understand why. This was the easiest tour of the three. He doesn't want to admit he is having problems, but he needs to. He met Veronica through Skype when he was overseas through his friends Tim, Skye, Madison and Jeremy. He felt calmed by her and felt that he needed her presence to get through the tour. So when he meets her when he gets home he is shocked about the instant connection. He doesn't want to start a relationship, but sometimes it doesn't always work the way you want it to.
This book was really good. I am now going to read books one and two. I am really hoping to get a book four. I don't feel that I got a conclusion to any of the couples especially Veronica and Dwayne.
4 Stars
This book is the third in a series, but can be read as a standalone. This book has a lot of the couples from books one and two in it. I would recommend reading them all.
Veronica has lead a very sheltered life. She was raised by her missionary parents and they constantly traveled from one third world country to another. She didn't even get the chance to go to school. Finally after 26 years of living this life she heads back to the states and goes to her aunt and uncles house. There she decides to move in with her cousin and her husband. She wants to fit in, but is unsure how. She has never had friends or even dated. This will all be a learning process for her.
Dwayne is a marine, just coming home from a tour in Afghanistan. He is having to learn how to become a civilian again. He is having issues with this return and he doesn't understand why. This was the easiest tour of the three. He doesn't want to admit he is having problems, but he needs to. He met Veronica through Skype when he was overseas through his friends Tim, Skye, Madison and Jeremy. He felt calmed by her and felt that he needed her presence to get through the tour. So when he meets her when he gets home he is shocked about the instant connection. He doesn't want to start a relationship, but sometimes it doesn't always work the way you want it to.
This book was really good. I am now going to read books one and two. I am really hoping to get a book four. I don't feel that I got a conclusion to any of the couples especially Veronica and Dwayne.
July 2, 2013
Veronica has been raised traveling the globe with her missionary parents. She has led an extremely sheltered life and is now trying to learn how to adjust in the modern world she has never been a part of. She is embarrassed by her past and does her best to hide it. Dwayne has just returned from a seven- month deployment. This particular mission was grueling on him and left him with lingering nightmares once he returns home. The only bright spot of the deployment were the few times he was able to talk with Veronica and she quickly became a lifeline to hold on to.
I loved this couple together. Their love story is completely original and even though the conflict was a bit predictable they really pulled of an honest heart felt endearing romance. It has perfect mix of humor, passion, intrigue and resolve.
Murray’s characters are so unique and her couples are explosive together. She always finds the perfect balance integrating her side characters into every book in the series. I love when you get to read more about the people you came to know and love from previous books.
If you are a fan of this series, you will appreciate this new addition. If you haven’t started them yet you will have no problem reading this as a stand-alone, but it is a great series and I highly recommend starting it.
Entire review posted here: http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
I loved this couple together. Their love story is completely original and even though the conflict was a bit predictable they really pulled of an honest heart felt endearing romance. It has perfect mix of humor, passion, intrigue and resolve.
Murray’s characters are so unique and her couples are explosive together. She always finds the perfect balance integrating her side characters into every book in the series. I love when you get to read more about the people you came to know and love from previous books.
If you are a fan of this series, you will appreciate this new addition. If you haven’t started them yet you will have no problem reading this as a stand-alone, but it is a great series and I highly recommend starting it.
Entire review posted here: http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
August 9, 2021
This was a nice round off to this series and I really enjoyed Dwayne who has an easy going personality. We also finally get to know about Veronica’s past and see her come into her real personality. This was a sweet but spicy romance between these two with a somewhat predictable ending.
Dwayne was a charmer and the perfect amount of confident and cocky. I loved watching his interactions with Veronica and his recognition that he needed to take things at her pace. Veronica’s growth throughout the book was handled really well. She was incredibly sheltered and isolated with her parents so adapting to a more normal lifestyle was a challenge. I loved the moments when she got sassy and spoke up for herself. The ending was pretty predictable with Veronica’s situation perfectly reflecting Dwayne’s worst fears. Something more creative could have been done.
Addressing PTSD is always something that should be treated with respect and Jeanette Murray did a really good job of this. I liked that she “normalized” re-acclimatization and therapy. There is nothing wrong with getting help from friends or professionals and Murray shows this.
What was up with Jeremy? He was kind of a dick in this book with his comments about Veronica; he just didn’t seem like the same person. And the scene when Madison gets sick just felt really out of character for their relationship.
Content Warning: Dwayne is struggling with PTSD
Dwayne was a charmer and the perfect amount of confident and cocky. I loved watching his interactions with Veronica and his recognition that he needed to take things at her pace. Veronica’s growth throughout the book was handled really well. She was incredibly sheltered and isolated with her parents so adapting to a more normal lifestyle was a challenge. I loved the moments when she got sassy and spoke up for herself. The ending was pretty predictable with Veronica’s situation perfectly reflecting Dwayne’s worst fears. Something more creative could have been done.
Addressing PTSD is always something that should be treated with respect and Jeanette Murray did a really good job of this. I liked that she “normalized” re-acclimatization and therapy. There is nothing wrong with getting help from friends or professionals and Murray shows this.
What was up with Jeremy? He was kind of a dick in this book with his comments about Veronica; he just didn’t seem like the same person. And the scene when Madison gets sick just felt really out of character for their relationship.
Content Warning: Dwayne is struggling with PTSD
July 30, 2013
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After a rougher than expected deployment, Captain Dwayne Robertson craves the sense of normalcy that his friends can bring him. But when he returns home, there's an unexpected, but pleasant, twist in the mix—Veronica Gibson. As he struggles to adjust to daily life again, Dwayne craves Veronica and the peace she brings him. But Veronica isn't without faults. Dwayne hates lies, and Veronica's entire past is a well-guarded mystery. When the completely unexpected happens, they both realize it's time to lay their cards on the table and hope they're ready for love.
MY REVIEW:
The Officer and the Secret is a warm welcome to the romance scene. I really liked this book, even though I wished there would have been a bit more angst and sexiness. Outside of those two small bits, the story was well told, had a lot of talent in being written, and very well developed characters. I enjoyed reading as the sweet, budding romance pushed on and how both characters not only explored each other, but also themselves.
I’d recommend this book for anyone looking for less of an erotic edge that is held in the industry today and more sweetness, almost comparable to Nora Roberts type of heat level. Ms. Murray will draw you into her story and she refuses to let you up until you’ve turned that last page. Four out of five stars for a great job.
After a rougher than expected deployment, Captain Dwayne Robertson craves the sense of normalcy that his friends can bring him. But when he returns home, there's an unexpected, but pleasant, twist in the mix—Veronica Gibson. As he struggles to adjust to daily life again, Dwayne craves Veronica and the peace she brings him. But Veronica isn't without faults. Dwayne hates lies, and Veronica's entire past is a well-guarded mystery. When the completely unexpected happens, they both realize it's time to lay their cards on the table and hope they're ready for love.
MY REVIEW:
The Officer and the Secret is a warm welcome to the romance scene. I really liked this book, even though I wished there would have been a bit more angst and sexiness. Outside of those two small bits, the story was well told, had a lot of talent in being written, and very well developed characters. I enjoyed reading as the sweet, budding romance pushed on and how both characters not only explored each other, but also themselves.
I’d recommend this book for anyone looking for less of an erotic edge that is held in the industry today and more sweetness, almost comparable to Nora Roberts type of heat level. Ms. Murray will draw you into her story and she refuses to let you up until you’ve turned that last page. Four out of five stars for a great job.
June 13, 2013
An entertaining book that I enjoyed very much. I've been intrigued by Dewayne and Veronica since reading the previous book in this series. Two strangers whose paths kept crossing. Somehow they seemed destined to be together and I couldn't wait to read their story. The book definitely met my expectations as it was a very romantic story.
I liked the characters a lot. Dewayne is finally back from a stressful eployment and is reunited with his friends. But he's not the same man. He's having some difficulty acclimating back into his old life and this played a big part in the story. He has been intrigued by Veronica and when they eventually meet in person the sparks fly like crazy. But Veronica is a bit out of the loop when it comes to relationships. The reasons why are eventually explained but they cause some problems. These two inevitably hook up for some sexy love scenes. I liked that a lot. But complications happen and some misunderstandings get tossed into the story that brought a lot of conflict into the story.
This story is loaded with drama and romantic conflict that kept me from the first page until the last one. I also liked that all the gang from the other books were back together so I got to catch up with everyone.
Overall, it was a good book. I enjoyed reading it and recommend it to everyone.
July 4, 2013
Officer and the Secret (Semper Fidelis. Always Faithful.) by Jeanette Murray
Publication Date: July 2, 2013
Reviewed by: Reading In Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 4 Stars
REVIEW:
I loved The Officer and the Secret! It is the third book of the Semper Fi Series, but can be read as a stand alone. I really want to read the first two books in the series now so I can read how the other couples got together though. I loved Dwayne even though I wanted to smack him at times. He is a sexy marine home from deployment and suffering from PTSD. Veronica has been sheltered her whole life and is just coming out of shell. They have great chemistry together and Veronica really seems to be the person to help Dwayne with his PTSD. Their story is a steamy romance that held my interest from beginning to end and had me laughing and smiling. The Officer and the Secret has a great plot and characters! This is the first book I have read by Jeannette Murray and will not be the last. I recommend this book for romance lovers that love a military hero!
Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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Publication Date: July 2, 2013
Reviewed by: Reading In Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 4 Stars
REVIEW:
I loved The Officer and the Secret! It is the third book of the Semper Fi Series, but can be read as a stand alone. I really want to read the first two books in the series now so I can read how the other couples got together though. I loved Dwayne even though I wanted to smack him at times. He is a sexy marine home from deployment and suffering from PTSD. Veronica has been sheltered her whole life and is just coming out of shell. They have great chemistry together and Veronica really seems to be the person to help Dwayne with his PTSD. Their story is a steamy romance that held my interest from beginning to end and had me laughing and smiling. The Officer and the Secret has a great plot and characters! This is the first book I have read by Jeannette Murray and will not be the last. I recommend this book for romance lovers that love a military hero!
Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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December 12, 2014
หนังสือบางเล่มได้หนึ่งดาว แต่เราสามารถเขียนรีวิวได้ยาวเป็นหน้า ๆ เพราะมีความเกลียดมากมายซ่อนอยู่ในหนึ่งดาวนั้น แต่สำหรับเล่มนี้เป็นหนึ่งดาว เพราะหลังจากอ่านจบไปสองสามเดือน เรากลับพบว่า แทบจะจำรายละเอียดของเรื่องนี้ไม่ได้แล้ว และเราคิดว่า ถ้ามันไม่น่าสนใจขนาดเราจบรายละเอียดแทบจะไม่ได้ มันก็ไม่สมควรได้ดาวมากไปกว่านี้หรอกค่ะ
ปัญหาก็คือ เราไม่รู้ว่า จะเขียนรีวิวมันยังไงน่ะค่ะ
ดเวนย์ โรเบิร์ตสันเพิ่งกลับมายังอเมริกาหลังจากถูกส่งไปออกรบในตะวันออกกลางหลายเดือน เขากลับมาพร้อมกับความจริงที่ตัวเองรู้ดี แต่ไม่ยอมรับที่ว่า เขามีอาการ PTSD (อาการจิตหลอนของทหารผ่านศึก) และการไม่ยอมรับความจริงในส่วนนี้นั่นเอง คือปมของเรื่องเป็นส่วนใหญ่ และกลายเป็นอุปสรรคสำคัญในการสานความสัมพันธ์ระหว่างเขา และเวโรนิก้า กิ๊บสัน
เรื่องนี้อ่านง่าย ๆ สบาย ๆ (และจบแล้วก็จบกัน คือลืมไปอย่างรวดเร็ว) เรื่องเล่าถึงคนสองคนที่มีชีวิตเป็นของตัวเอง และกำลังมาถึงทางแยกของชีวิต ดเวนย์กับความพยายามที่จะเอาชนะ PTSD และการไปสู่การยอมรับความจริงว่า การไปพบจิตแพทย์ไม่ได้หมายความว่า เขาเป็นคนอ่อนแอ และเวโรนิก้าที่พยายามปรับตัวกับชีวิตแบบที่ไม่คุ้นเคย หลังจากที่ใช้เวลาเกือบตลอดชีวิตติดตามบิดามารดาผู้ทุ่มเทรับใช้พระเจ้า (ด้วยการออกเดินทางไปยังที่ห่างไกลเพื่อช่วยเหลือคนอื่น แต่ละเลยและทอดทิ้งลูกแท้ ๆ ของตัวเอง)
เราอ่านสองเล่มแรกในชุดไปนะคะ และคิดว่า สนุกและน่าสนใจกว่าเล่มนี้
ปัญหาก็คือ เราไม่รู้ว่า จะเขียนรีวิวมันยังไงน่ะค่ะ
ดเวนย์ โรเบิร์ตสันเพิ่งกลับมายังอเมริกาหลังจากถูกส่งไปออกรบในตะวันออกกลางหลายเดือน เขากลับมาพร้อมกับความจริงที่ตัวเองรู้ดี แต่ไม่ยอมรับที่ว่า เขามีอาการ PTSD (อาการจิตหลอนของทหารผ่านศึก) และการไม่ยอมรับความจริงในส่วนนี้นั่นเอง คือปมของเรื่องเป็นส่วนใหญ่ และกลายเป็นอุปสรรคสำคัญในการสานความสัมพันธ์ระหว่างเขา และเวโรนิก้า กิ๊บสัน
เรื่องนี้อ่านง่าย ๆ สบาย ๆ (และจบแล้วก็จบกัน คือลืมไปอย่างรวดเร็ว) เรื่องเล่าถึงคนสองคนที่มีชีวิตเป็นของตัวเอง และกำลังมาถึงทางแยกของชีวิต ดเวนย์กับความพยายามที่จะเอาชนะ PTSD และการไปสู่การยอมรับความจริงว่า การไปพบจิตแพทย์ไม่ได้หมายความว่า เขาเป็นคนอ่อนแอ และเวโรนิก้าที่พยายามปรับตัวกับชีวิตแบบที่ไม่คุ้นเคย หลังจากที่ใช้เวลาเกือบตลอดชีวิตติดตามบิดามารดาผู้ทุ่มเทรับใช้พระเจ้า (ด้วยการออกเดินทางไปยังที่ห่างไกลเพื่อช่วยเหลือคนอื่น แต่ละเลยและทอดทิ้งลูกแท้ ๆ ของตัวเอง)
เราอ่านสองเล่มแรกในชุดไปนะคะ และคิดว่า สนุกและน่าสนใจกว่าเล่มนี้
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