Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Call Sign Karma

Rate this book
Love in the no-fly zone…

Distraught over the loss of her brother in a fighter jet accident, Tinklee Pinkerton decides to follow in his footsteps and prove the tragedy wasn’t his fault. But when she’s chosen as the first woman to fly the Air Force’s F-35, her plan for a life that revolves around work is thrown off course by a handsome, mysterious stranger…

Thanks to Locke’s seductive British accent, sweet nature, and one too many beers, Tink is soon inspired to throw caution to the wind and herself into his arms. She thinks maybe love can heal after all—until she discovers Locke is her superior officer. Tink has no problem risking her life in the air, but with everything on the line, is she brave enough to risk her heart on the ground?

331 pages, ebook

First published January 5, 2015

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

Jamie Rae

13 books121 followers
JAMIE RAE is a New Adult and Young Adult author. She writes with one goal in mind--to create stories with a positive message that will stay with the reader long after they've finished reading.

Jamie is an avid reader and loves discovering stories with a great hook, though she will not eat, sleep, or speak until she reaches the end. The Harry Potter years weren't pretty!! Convinced that her Hogwarts letter was lost in the mail, she keeps a watchful eye for owls hoping her children will have better luck!

In her other life, Jamie Rae enjoys creating smiles that will last a lifetime as an orthodontist and keeps her heart overflowing with love as a mother of three. She has perfected the art of nomadic living as a military spouse and Air Force veteran. Jamie has a passion for critters of all shapes and sizes and you can often find her sneaking them into her own home or volunteering for rescues.

Dream~Write~Inspire

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
191 (53%)
4 stars
95 (26%)
3 stars
47 (13%)
2 stars
17 (4%)
1 star
6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
January 7, 2015
2.5 Stars

“…life will never give you more than you can handle.”

The Hero:
Locke is 26, charming, witty and British with a gorgeous tender side. He piqued my interest the moment he entered the story.... I wanted more, more and more of him

The Heroine:
Tinklee Pinkerton is 22 and ready to risk everything, in the air, in her mission to discover the truth. She’s not quite so prepared to take risks with her heart, especially with a man who should be forbidden to her.

The Story:
The hero and heroine have the potential to destroy both their careers by becoming involved and, more importantly, Tinklee doesn't want to let anything stand in the way of her quest to clear her brother's name. They also face the serious prospect of their chosen careers.... What it involves to be in the air-force and how it can have dramatic consequences.

Wishes:
I wish the feels I experienced at the beginning and at 80% had been maintained throughout. I felt it was somewhat predictable and a little high on the technical detail in a couple of areas. This detracted from my overall enjoyment and made me slightly disconnect from the story and the characters so that when the full on angst was occurring, I didn't truly feel the emotion the way I should have. His Britishness was an issue for me... probably because I’m British, but it didn't always ring true, although I think others may love the way he's portrayed.


I enjoyed:
I loved the start; it totally drew me in to the story when they first collide on the beech… I would have loved more of a steam factor but I wanted to see how their forbidden love story unfolded. I loved the glimmer of angst but I wanted more. The last 20% was quite lovely but sadly the middle of the book had lost me a little.

I have an eclectic taste in books. New Adult stories often really get my emotions going but sadly this one didn't work so well for me... It was ok and some elements I liked hence the 2.5 stars. However, all that said, it may be fabulous for others.It’s NA and forbidden so if this ticks your romance boxes then you may enjoy this story.

Complimentary copy received from Kensington Books, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Heidi McLaughlin.
Author 99 books6,975 followers
October 13, 2014
I had the honor of reading this debut novel early and am very thrilled to read about a strong female heroine.
Profile Image for Laura.
471 reviews557 followers
January 7, 2015
| ARC kindly provided by Kensington Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you a lot! |

description

Call Sign Karma is the story of a 22-years-old woman named Tinklee Pinkerton who is training to be a pilot. A jet fighter pilot but she's having a lot of difficulties such as flying the same jet where his older brother, Colin, died. Tinklee is the youngest person that got accepted in the academy and the first woman, on top of that. Our main character is struggling and feeling the terrible lost of his brother, facing the fact that she's gonna fly the same jet that got him killed but also she's gotta face her one night stand being her new flying trainer.
This got mess spelled all over.

description

Sign me up for all those feels.
From the very first moment I knew I was going to sob. I lost a brother too so I was friends with that kind of pain and guilt and sorrow so when a new author like Jamie goes and writes so beautifuly how much she's hurting, you really understand that.

Now, let's talk about how this heroine totally kick butts and deserve all our love, right? Tinklee is a really strong female. She's not tougher than anyone in parcticular, or stroger, faster and that kind of thing in a superhuman way, no, she's all of that in an ordinary human way and that's just perfect. She's sensitive and she has issues and defects and she's not perfect at all but she's sweet and very intelligent and brave aaaand then we met Locke.

description

I so loved the fact that Tinklee hasn't been able to feel anything since her brother's death and then come Locke and BAM BAM BAAM, he ignites her and makes her feel all at once and boy, that's something else. He is sweet and sexy as holy hell and kind and honest and pretty much everything swoon worthy, okay? Okay.
Locke is able to help Tinklee is ways she didn't even realized and he somehow ease her just by being himself.
For the very first moment they met you could tell they were going to be epic. Boy, they did have ups and ups and downs and downs but everytime they saw each other was ugh so hot and full of let-me-take-you-here-on-the-floor kind of vibe and there's nothing wrong about that, ;).

I also enjoyed a lot how Jamie wrote about, well, being on the sky. I was able to feel the same way Tinklee was feeling and all the turns she made on Karma and the preasure I finished the book in one sitting but I want more and more.

[image error]

What amazing debut novel, Jamie! You've got yourself a fan here!
Profile Image for Sheryl C. Nash.
1,714 reviews430 followers
November 15, 2014
No other way to describe this other than, WHAT A BLOODY FREAKIN' BRILLIANT DEBUT!!!!

OH, AND PLEASE LET THE NEXT BOOK IN THIS SERIES BE ABOUT ASH, Jamie Rae!!!!!

I will write my proper review soon but I had to say I LOVED Tinklee, was BLOWN AWAY by her squad mates and FREAKIN' ADORED Locke... and OMG, I gotta admit that I fell for both Bodhi and Ash like a ton of bricks *STARS IN EYES*


*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Kensington Books*
Profile Image for Terri.
703 reviews20 followers
January 31, 2015
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher Kensington via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is January 5th, 2015.

This is a classic case of do not judge a book by its cover because lets be honest, it is pretty dreadful. This story turned out to be so much more than I expected. Perhaps I pre-judged it. This genre is typically for me an enjoyable one and a somewhat guilty pleasure however tends to lack the wow factor. This book changed it for me.

I don't know where to start. From the moment that Tink and Locke met I knew I was in for a ride. There was humour mixed in with the attraction and I am stifling a laugh as I picture Tink's beer bottle making contact with Locke's head. The forbidden romance while not exactly a new concept really worked in this story as it was set in the military landscape where there is added elements of why they couldn't be together.

Tink's unresolved feelings regarding her brothers death added an additional element to the story and explained her drive to become a fighter pilot. It also explained her fear to let go and love and be loved. It also gave the story a little more depth and helped you become invested in Tinks journey.

There were two elements that pushed this story in to the standout category for me.

1. This story moved in to a warzone. It wasn't all about romance and the inner angst of two lovers. It brought to the forefront true conflict and outlined the military life in a time of conflict. It also shed some light on the brotherhood (or sisterhood) of the military family and how they stick together and support each other no matter what. This was moving for me and I came to love all of characters...well except for one. This was unexpected and a good move on Rae's part.

2. Ash. Never in all of the hundreds of books I have read has there ever been a secondary character that I adored more. His relentless and humorous pursuit of Tink and then his humble acceptance that they would never be made me fall in love with him. The fact that he would still do anything for her with nothing in return but her friendship up to and including risking his life and career brought tears to my eyes. If there is any one character that deserves his own story it is him...hint hint. I looked forward to every time he was involved in the plot and I feel that there is more that can be done with him. He truly is what is sticking with me the most.

I guess it is safe to say that I really enjoyed this book. Although I didn't intend to I read it in one sitting and it is still resonating with me as I write these words. I want to thank Rae for writing a story that has shattered my pre-conceived notions regarding this genre and writing a story with a little bit of depth while still delivering everything I expect of the genre. I will definitely be looking for more of her work.
Profile Image for Lana Grayson.
Author 9 books349 followers
November 25, 2014
This is an excellent debut novel from Jamie Rae! I love having a kick-butt heroine to root for, and I love even more that Tink isn't the perfect hot-shot. She needs to work for her successes--not only while flying but in life as well. The death of her brother rattled Tink, and flying the same jet that killed him tempts fate, karma, and her own self-doubt. Luckily, she has a super sexy flight instructor to distract her. The romance with Locke starts with a bang (...or a bottle to the head) and grows from casual encounter to true, passionate love. This is an awesome read, and it's so neat to read a military romance where the heroine is also in the military. Totally unique!!
Profile Image for Lizzy Charles.
Author 6 books351 followers
November 14, 2014
Oh my goodness, I loved this book! Tinklee is refreshing as a strong, courageous New Adult lead. Jamie Rae writes romance that leaves you begging for Locke to show up on the page. I can't get enough of him! There's also great depth in this story regarding Tink, her father and brother. You are getting more than a regular old NA romance. You are getting a real story that'll leave you laughing, swooning, and crying. Jamie Rae is brilliant in her debut!
Profile Image for Lynn Cheryl.
710 reviews30 followers
January 15, 2015
Tinklee Pinkerton! Not normally a name you'd associate with a trained fighter pilot, but with a Mom who likes to sprinkle her world with her own brand of pixie dust, it is very normal indeed. “Tink” was born to follow in the footsteps of her father and brother and always knew from an early age she wanted to fly . Now at the age of twenty-two, “Tink” is about to embark on the next chapter of her career and learn to fly a JSF – the same jet fighter than she believed was responsible for her brothers death.

“Tink” is a feisty, hot-headed and independent young woman trying to forge a career in a mans' world. She's nobody's fool but underneath her tough exterior, she's has insecurities and doubts like everyone else. Her main nagging doubt is about the beloved JSF and she wants to prove that despite her father's belief, her adored big brother wasn't killed due to his own error but because of an electrical fault in the cock-pit.

Locke, What was there not too like about him? - nothing! I just love how the author nailed his British accent making his background authentic and believable. Locke wasn't expecting an “act first, ask questions later” first impression from the beautiful blonde woman on the beach near his home. Neither did he expect their chemistry to read off the scale either. After a night of passion, he leaves to begin a new work placement, unbeknown that the nameless woman that rocked his world only hours earlier would be one of his new students.

I loved how the two protagonists complemented one another. Tinklee is impulsive, a loose cannon and sometimes her own worse enemy, whereas Locke is a cool, steadfast guy - the voice of reason. Humour is in bountiful supply courtesy of the banter between the guys in the squadron. And lets not forget both sets of parents' who provided every reason possible for their off-spring to rebel against them. All of this wrapped up in a military setting which the author has gone to great detail to create an authentic backdrop to the drama. Call Sign Karma is the fabulous début novel from Jamie Rae, and I'm look forward to reading more from her in the future.

5 Stars

***arc received courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley***
Profile Image for Danielle.
346 reviews238 followers
December 21, 2014
Call Sign Karma had it all... A strong heroine, a slew of swoonworthy men, seat-gripping action, and so many feels!

Tink is throwing herself a bit of a pity party before "doomsday" (as she puts it) when she meets Locke in one of the most memorable first encounters ever. What we have is a one night stand at it's finest when they run into each other the next day and they realize that Locke is Tink's new superior officer. It's not quite a student/teacher romance but it still fits into that forbidden romance trope that I love so much!

Of course they try to fight it, knowing that they shouldn't be together, but they give in to their desires a few times, get caught... You know how it goes. While they're fighting their attraction, Tink spots Locke with a hot chick, thinks he's moved on, and decides it's time to move on too. Enter Ash... Sigh!

No there isn't really a love triangle per se because Tink doesn't have feelings for Ash, but let's just say there are a few misunderstandings that leave you to wonder if Tink will end up with Locke or not. Now this is where I was really torn because honestly, Ash totally stole my heart and I was rooting for him, but alas Tink puts him in the friend zone. So Jamie Rae, if you're reading this, PLEASE give Ash his own HEA!

While I was really enjoying this book it totally hooked me once they were deployed. There was non-stop action and heartbreaking moments that had me on the edge of my seat. Plus in my opinion that's where the romance really took off too. Locke was there for Tink when she was doubting herself and in the end, Tink was there to save Locke's life... Literally!

Overall I really enjoyed Call Sign Karma, however, in the end I was still really torn between Ash and Locke and I felt a tad slighted that Tink friend zoned my newest book boyfriend.

*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Doris.
123 reviews1 follower
December 29, 2014
11/25 Review to come closer to pub date but everyone add this book right now, LOVED IT.

12/28 Review can also be found here:http://www.owlalwaysbereading.com/201...



Going into this I knew I was going to be a mess because of the description and I was proven right. Call Sign Karma moved me in so many ways that I may become obsessed with all of Jamie Rae's future books.

I've never read a story about a woman serving our country or a woman flying a jet, a fighter jet. The way Jamie wrote Tink and her life had me feeling like I was the pilot; every turn Tink took, I took with her. Mark my words, Tinklee Pinkerton is going to be in the hall of fame - badass characters edition. I can't express enough how much I loved Tink and her ballsy-fierce attitude that didn't take bullshit from anyone. Her determination in clearing her brother's name from pilot error is admirable and her stubbornness is off the charts. Fyi, Tink is one of those characters that I will never forget.

And Locke, OH HOLY-BRITISH- HELL LOCKE. Ever since her brother died Tink hasn't felt anything at all, no emotions, nothing. When she meets Locke, he lights a spark in her that makes her feel like her old self. And let me tell you this, they have the most cutest-embarrassing-sexy-first meeting ever. Tink and Locke had so many ups and downs that my heart couldn't take, from start to finish their relationship was like a flame that wouldn't stop burning and I cherished every moment of it.

I love Call Sign Karma with my whole heart. I mean I stayed up till the wee hours of the morning reading and I don't regret a second of it. Jamie Rae delivers a powerful debut novel that will leaving you gasping and swooning with each new twist.
Profile Image for Jody Holford.
Author 46 books614 followers
June 7, 2014
The intensity of this book keeps you on the edge. The characters are real and easy to connect to. The emotion is strong. I find myself thinking about them even now that I've finished.
Profile Image for Veronica of V's Reads.
1,528 reviews41 followers
January 23, 2015
Tinklee Pinkerton is a 22 y/o newly graduated Air Force pilot who is being trained on a new jet, the same jet her father has helped design/sell and also the same jet which crashed killing her older brother, Colin. Tink is sure there's something wrong with the jet, and it malfunctioned--resulting in Colin's death--and she's determined to prove it. Of course, the night before she begins training she gets drunk, trying to drown her jitters and grief, and has a one nighter with a stranger...who turns out to be Capt. Locke of the Royal Air Force, and one of her instructors.

The sexual tension is high, though both Tink and Locke know they must stay away from each other, or risk their positions on the squadron. There is a lot of animosity, too, as Tink thinks Locke believes Colin died due to pilot error. And, there's a love square with one pushy brunette (Kassie) and a Special Forces operative (Ash) who won't accept "no" for an answer.

Tink successfully pilot's her dad's jet--many times, and still struggles to find the answers behind Colin's crash. Being deployed doesn't help--as Tink's very unsettled. So much so she's ready to pull the plug on flying altogether--until Locke goes down behind enemy lines.

What I liked about the story: Tink is a strong woman who is used to being harassed by the men in her field. She handles herself with grace, much of the time. She is also unduly stubborn and this causes her many, many problems. At times her obstinacy was irritating, and I wished she could have gotten an emotional grip a long time prior to getting in the cockpit. There seems to be a lot of procedural info about the Air Force, which brought authenticity to the story, but sometimes bogged the pace.

Locke was a decent guy, and so was Ash. Tink had a ton of great guys to lean on, and even the d-bags were there when she needed them. I think there were two issues that kept this from being a great read, for me. First, there was almost no heat. All the smexytimes were completely glossed over--barely happened. Second, I had a hard time believing that such an inexperienced pilot would be one of the trainees on such a new aircraft. Such a big emphasis of the book was placed on Tink's newbie status and it just seemed irrational. I know the military has standards for pilots, and I'd have felt more connected if Tink had had a few years of piloting under her belt. Her young age didn't add anything to this story, but confusion. Made me think the Air Force was pretty, um, dumb--putting a young, untested pilot in an untested plane--one which crashed recently killing her only sibling. I supposed it COULD have happened, but it made it harder for me to accept the story as a reader. It also interfered with my understanding of the story's timeline, as well.
Profile Image for Kimberly (Kimmy Loves to Read).
1,035 reviews8 followers
May 11, 2015
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Tinklee is having a bad day. She's a bit drunk and is mad at the world...specifically karma. And just when she thinks things couldn't get any worse she meets Locke Sinclair. And when I say "meet" I mean she accidentally gives him a bloody nose and then practically knocks him out with her door. So yeah...not exactly a good first impression, but Locke doesn't seem to care. They two hit it off and spend the night together he leaves her an adorable note promising to take her out the next night and Tinklee can't wait. The next day Tinklee starts her new life as an Air force pilot and SURPRISE, Locke is her superior officer. A seriously good looking guy with a British accent...DAMN YOU KARMA!(I just want to mention that this is the second book I've read recently where there was a military man name Locke who I absolutely LOVED. See: Harper Sloan's book "Locke.")

This is a terrific debut novel from Jamie Rae. I chose to read it after another author recommended it and I am glad that I did. A lot goes on in the book. While Tinklee is trying to come to terms with what happens to her brother she is also trying to come to terms with her feelings for Locke. She has a lot of reservations about starting a relationship with him and not just because he is her superior.

This book is filled with men that I want to know better. A lot of books I recently read have these awesome secondary characters that I want to know better. While fighting her feelings for Locke she befriends Ash, who wants more from Tinklee, but eventually comes to realize that she isn't the one for him. I can't wait to hear his story.

Then there are the other guys in her squadron. At first a few of them are put off by the fact that she is a woman, but they quickly come around. I really liked Stitch. He had been friends with her brother so he very quickly took on the role of her big brother. I'm not sure what the author's plans are for future books, but I hope we get to learn more about these guys.

This book is an emotional read. I laughed, cried (on the subway), gasped, cheered and "aw'd." You know....when something sweet happens in a book and you just can't help it....you "Aw" out loud. I like when that happens.
Profile Image for Amber Boyd.
673 reviews14 followers
January 9, 2015
What a debut release!! I have to say I love it when another book friend, or in this case author friend says "you gotta read this!"; because 9x out of 10 they are spot on for what I love and Call Sign Karma was no exception to this rule! This new release from Jamie Rae was a non-stop emotional ride from start to finish for me. The characters and story were well developed in my opinion and the emotions just felt real for me throughout. The pain and grief of losing her brother and best friend, have left Tinklee Pinkerton numb in so many areas, but when she meets Locke Sinclair her feelings come roaring back to life! However because karma is not Tinklee's friend and the day she reports for flight training with her new squadron she is met with the realization that the unbelievable night was spent with one of her instructors!

Locke is British. He's a hot shot pilot. Oh and did I mention he's hot as f*ck?! Oh and he's also living in the house next door. Yeah karma is sooo not a friend. Locke wants Tinklee. Tinklee wants him. But they both want to keep their wings and so they proceed to avoid each other when they are not at work. Though this is not always easy and it's definitely full on torture for them both. Enter a sexy as hell Special Forces officier named Ash and things get even more complicated for Tinklee. Add in that her commanding officiers are trying to decide if she can handle the stress of the cockpit and the memories of her brother's accidental death in the same jet. Yeah Tinklee has some ghosts and a whole lot of emotional walls going on, but she's also one hell of a pilot and that she is determined is an understatement.

For me this book had it all going on from start to finish. You had the emotional struggles Tinklee has trying to cope with her brother's death and the controversy surrounding his death. Then there is the romantic entanglement between Tinklee wanting Locke, Locke wanting Tinklee and Ash wanting Tinklee. Throw in some father-daughter tension, a war-time deployment and emotional baggage. Well let's just say I was laughing, fanning, screaming and crying until the end. I can't wait to read more by Jamie Rae and a little birdy has already told me that a few supporting players are getting their own stories!!
Profile Image for Lisa F.
571 reviews9 followers
November 21, 2014
from the moment tink "beat up" Locke I was in love. If I could give more stars I would.
Tink also known as karma is a pilot, her brother was a pilot who died while flying and it was put down as pilot error which tink doesn't believe and is determined to find the truth, along the way she meets new people who become close friends, encounters dangerous territory, falls in love, opens her self up and comes to term with her brothers loss.
I couldn't put this down, I loved tink from the moment she beat up Locke, she's a character every girl can relate to, she's smart, beautiful, stubborn, funny, her attitude towards Lockes mum had me laughing how can you not like her.
Locke yum yum, what a man!! you can see how smitten he is with karma and their sexual chemistry is just wow, but you can see there's more these two care about each other and I really liked they didn't start declaring their love straight away as that is one pet hate I have with books.
the book is about tink but there's so much more you have the banter from the boys but also you can see how much they admire tink and will back her 100%.
I thought oh no love triangle but it didn't go that way, yes ash has feelings for tink but he admits defeat that she's taken with Locke but he's not bitter and nasty he still wants to be her friend and has her back to be honest I wouldn't have minded ash myself :) I'm British so I think the American boys more appealing lol plus Locke and tink are made for each other.
love all the guys: mojo, stitch, freak,Bodhi and there's so many but they are my fav :)

the storyline with tinks brother colin is heartbreaking, you will need your tissues, you can feel how close they were and how deeply they loved each other. by tinks memories and the people who knew him, we get to know Colin and the type of person he was and how he was suffering from PTSD.

heartfelt and touching story cannot wait to see what else is in store from this author.
Profile Image for Carra.
1,679 reviews25 followers
January 19, 2015
Strong female characters are always a draw for me, and Call Sign Karma does deliver with Tink’s character. There are some spots when I do get a little annoyed with her, and like the other characters in the story I don’t agree with the blame and pressure she puts on herself, but overall she’s a pretty good female lead. Locke…where to begin…or maybe I should just say “hot British alpha male” because that right there hooks me. Add in the fact that he’s an instructor for Tink-and that right there is the starting recipe for a good read.

I love the way Tink and Locke meet-an instant classic meet-cute situation. And everything between them is instant, hot and as they soon find out…against the rules. But that’s what makes their relationship a draw from a reader’s perspective (especially me, I love these types of setups). They also have an excellent cast of secondary characters to support them and give more depth to the story.

The writing flows well and is descriptive enough to place me in the middle of the story, but at times it can become a bit technical, and as someone with absolutely no military experience either personally or within my immediate family, some of the scenes have dialogue and explanations that fall a little flat for me.

This is redeemed though with the excellent beginning and action-packed ending, with the last quarter of the book leaving me on the edge of my seat. It was an overall 4-star read for me, and I would recommend it for adult contemporary romantic suspense fans. Now I’m hoping that the author will be writing the stories for some of those secondary characters-especially Bodhi, Mojo and Ash (oh, Ash!)-I can definitely say I’d be picking those up the moment they come out!
Profile Image for Cocktails and Books.
4,089 reviews314 followers
January 13, 2015
I absolutely adored this story. The heroine has a B-52 full of emotional issues, but it took a hot Brit pilot to prove to her what was worth living for.

Tinklee (I will confess, I did not like the heroine's name. Poor thing) should have been living her dream. Instead, she was haunted by the death of her brother as she entered flight school for the plane she always wanted to fly. She was a mess and was fairly broken as she got ready for her first day, but she was determined to press forward. That determination didn't always make Tink a very likable person. She could be bitchy and would often times close herself off. Luckily for her, the guys in her class and one hot British flight instructor will do whatever it takes to get the real Tinklee to come out.

I loved Locke. I love how Tink and he met. And how despite the amount of trouble the two of them could get into, he was still determined to be with Tink. Without her saying much, Locke knew what she needed. When she needed a push, when she needed a reality check or when she just needed a sounding board.

It's a military romance, so there is a bit of intrigue with a squirmish overseas and the entire class being deployed. I truly enjoyed this part of the book because it displayed who Tink was, despite the grief she let hold her down. She's a leader and she proved that she was not going to leave a man behind...even if that meant facing her own fears to get him back.

I wasn't sure what to expect when I went into this story, but I can out the other side a huge fan. I loved it. I loved the characters, the storyline and devoured this book in one sitting. If you're looking for an introduction to military romance, this would be a great one to start with. It's definitely a favorite of mine.
Profile Image for Cindy.
3 reviews
November 26, 2014
"Call Sign Karma" is a great read. I was lucky to be able to read it early on. If you shy away from reading romance stories as I typically do, this story is so much more than that. The emotion and depth of the main character Tinklee as she struggles to discover love and herself in the wake of her brother's death will pull you in. If you are looking for romance, adventure and a fascinating story that will make you fall in love with its characters and the choices they face, this book is for you. This book will attract men and women alike with its in-depth knowledge of the fighter pilot community and intriguing military adventure and love story. What an amazing debut from author Jamie Rae! This is not a typical NA romance and "Call Sign Karma's" central character Tinklee is not an average protagonist - she has guts but also a past that haunts her and drives a lot of her decisions in life. She is in control or so she thinks, until she encounters Locke. You won't be able to get enough of Locke and Tinklee's connection and without spoiling the story, the conflict that arises when Tinklee has to decide who should hold the keys to her heart. The story's pace, humor and depth will draw you in. You will be rooting for Tinklee. I finished the book wanting to continue to follow her journey and the lives of the other characters. I was hooked! Luckily, there is a follow-on book that is in the works called "Operation Keeping the Faith."
Profile Image for Lara Petterson.
223 reviews12 followers
January 27, 2015
I loved this book . Original story . What a great debut novel . Jamie has main characters and lots of supporting ones that from the first pages you really want to know more about .

Locke and Tink meet and have instant chemistry . They act on it only to find out later that they will be working together , Which is of course a big no-no. You must put this on the top of your TBR to see if they can burn bright together or go down.
December 3, 2014
LOVED this book! Tinklee is such a strong, tough, courageous Lead. I'm in love with Locke, I couldn't wait until he was on the page. A very sexy, adventurous, butt-kicking story line. Jamie Rae is fantastic in her debut. I'm recommending this to all my friends.
Profile Image for Nancy.
1 review
December 2, 2014
I loved this book!!! I am recommending this author to all of my friends and look forward to reading many more books written by Jamie Rae!!
Profile Image for Annie Brewer.
Author 15 books761 followers
Currently reading
November 19, 2014
***ARC provided by publisher in exchange for honest review***


Can't wait to start this!!!
Profile Image for Tina.
612 reviews23 followers
January 8, 2015
I think of this book and I sigh. What an absolutely incredible debut novel from Jamie Rae. This book has it all: intrigue, romance, passion, humor, strong characters, drama, and practically everything you would look for in a story! When I finished the book, I thought to myself, this debut novel is perfect and I cannot wait to see what Jamie has for us next because it will be awesome!

CALL SIGN KARMA is a beautiful romance set in a world full of competition, loyalty, and danger. When this story begins, we are introduced to our heroine, Tinkerlee Pinkerton (what a name). She is a 22 year old who has dealt with grief and sadness that no one should have to deal with. She has been mourning the loss of her brother, and consequently the trust and love of her father, ever since his accident. Tink is determined to know the truth of what happened to her brother. She is starting flight school in order to excel and select her aircraft for future missions and flights, while further investigating what happened him. Before training starts, in walks the devastatingly handsome Locke, a man she meets on the beach. They have a rousing affair for one night, both going their separate ways and wondering if something more could grow from their encounter. When Tink starts her training the next morning, we see that nothing will happen. Why? Because Locke is her superior and instructor. As they attempt to put the emotions and connection behind them, they move forward with training and flying. When training ends, danger and intrigue begins. It is a race against the clock and a determination so fierce. Tink and Locke must learn what is more important and what boundaries they will cross no matter the cost.

This book is filled with so much goodness and I will share my favorite parts in a spoiler free attempt. First off, the heroine of this story is fantastic. Tink is such a wonderful and complex character. She is young, as displayed in some of her actions in the book, yet she has lived through some horrific things, giving her a maturity that is rare in a 22 year old, which balances who she is so well. She is determined to find the truth of what happened to her brother. Tink is a fiercely loyal character. She is strong, fierce, competitive, and independent. Then we have the sexy Locke. Be still my beating heart! This is quite a man. He is exactly what Tink needs, whether she acknowledges it or not. He is kind, compassionate, authoritative, strong, determined, passionate, and loyal. All in all, he is the perfect partner for Tink.

One of my favorite parts of this story was all the secondary characters. There are quite a few other people in this story and their presence creates such an incredible environment for the story to grow. I loved all the people she meets on base and in her squadron. I loved Ash, Freak, Mojo, Stitch, Bodhi, and all the guys. They are so unique in their personalities, creating for a fun and vibrant cast of characters. I loved her mother and Lyric's eccentric characters. This book would not have been half as amazing without this incredible cast of people to support and love Tink and Locke.

Now for the vague part. As a reader, there are times when you have a sort of foreboding when reading. You know from either hints in the writing or the fact that you thought this was all the book was about and now there is still 40% left and a plot twist and a sense that something BIG is about to go down. Well that happened. And I will not share details because the shock and excitement made this book top notch, but know that everything that happens will keep you on the edge of your seat and the adrenaline will be pumping!

Jamie Rae is officially on the "authors to watch and lovingly stalk" list. This book hit all the marks. It is well written, filled with characters and situations that will draw you in. The characters are spot on and the subject matter felt fresh and alive. I have read only a few fighter pilot books and none really showcased their world quite like this one. I loved the ins and outs of that world, the camaraderie and drama that naturally unfolds. This book is one you will not want to miss. It will set the standard high and keep you hooked!
Profile Image for Kim.
1,454 reviews32 followers
December 24, 2014
“Karma is how you choose to deal with life, and the energy you put back into the world. If you really want to break it down, Karma is how your actions in this life will affect your next life.”

Do you believe in karma? Tinklee Pinkerton does, and she is pretty sure her karma is all bad. She is a blond haired blue eyed fighter pilot trying to make it in a man's world with a name that usually results in teasing and references to a certain Disney fairy, and she watched her brother Colin die during a flight in the same jet that she convinced him to fly and that she now has to conquer as part of an elite team of pilots. She essentially shut down her emotions after Colin's death, unable to deal with the pain and feeling as though she shouldn't be allowed to experience love and happiness since Colin isn't here to ever feel them again.

The night before her training starts, she is on the beach after having more than a few beers, feeling pretty low and talking to Colin's memory. As she gets up to hurl the bottle, she makes contact with an unexpected obstacle in the form of a smokin' hot blond haired blue eyed god with a British accent- HELLO! She then proceeds to inadvertently beat him up a bit more before taking pity on him and offering him some ice and a drink. Something about this man calls to her and one thing leads to another before she finds herself uncharacteristically taking a chance on him- at least for the night but hopefully for much more.

When she wakes up hungover and dreading the day, the one bright spot for her is the note from Locke promising to pick her up for dinner later that night. That bright spot is quickly extinguished as soon as Flight Instructor Locke Sinclair, call sign Duke, walks into the room, here on loan from the British Royal Air Force. Things go from bad to worse, leading to a possible concussion and a visit to Dr Bodhi Fisher for Tink, only to find the laid back surfer/ flight doctor is good friends with her walking dream/ nightmare in a flight suit. Since any relationship between Tink and Locke will cost them both their wings if anyone finds out, things are looking pretty bleak- but that doesn't stop the sizzling chemistry between these two.

I will leave you to read the rest of their journey, but I will say this was a really great debut novel from Jamie Rae! You run the gamut of emotions right along with Tink as she struggles to find her way again without her brother by her side and to find her spot in the boy's club of the fighter pilot brotherhood. She doesn't show any sign of weakness, having had it drilled into her since childhood by father that weakness is not an option, and if you tell her no, I guarantee you she will find a way to go around you and make it happen! As I mentioned before, Locke is just smokin'- I do love a man with an accent but he backs it up with genuine caring, a bit of a naughty side and an underlying confidence that carries through everything he says and does. His love for Tink is palpable and I hurt for him when she constantly sent him mixed signals along the way.

The supporting cast of characters was equally as wonderful as the set of primary characters in this story. Bodhi was a constant presence in their lives due to his profession and his friendship with Locke, and I loved his laid back surfer attitude. Lyric becomes a friend to Tink and definitely turned Bodhi's head, so maybe there will be more to come there. Locke's parents make an appearance or two in the story as well, and all I can say about his mom is the term "monster in law" was designed for people like her- holy crap, Bodhi has it right when he says that woman is all kinds of scary! Yeesh!

And I cannot leave out Ash! Ash Walker is a Special Forces para-rescue operative and has his sights set on Tink. He has no idea that he is up against the invisible man in the form of Locke in Tink's mind at first, but they form a genuine bond and a friendship that helps them both through some difficult times. I am REALLY hoping this man gets his own story because he definitely deserves it! 4.5 stars for CSK and I am looking forward to more from this author.

Profile Image for Molly Lee.
Author 20 books976 followers
December 29, 2014
The stakes are high in Jamie Rae’s debut NA novel CALL SIGN KARMA and the amount of talent is even higher!

In the writing world I’m always talking about the stakes for the characters or what I like to refer to as the ‘sizzle’. The spark that makes the reader fall in love with the character and root for them the entire way. Well, CALL SIGN KARMA delivers this and much more because there is SO much at stake for the main characters. Not only is the heroine, Tink’s, heart at risk from unknowingly falling for her new superior officer, but their occupation—USAF Fighter Pilots—puts their jobs in jeopardy, not to mention their lives as they serve their country! Each of these elements is masterfully woven together and creates so much tension and drive that I couldn’t put it down!!!

Tink is an amazing female lead and so refreshing in the NA genre! You know she’s a badass when she’s the first female chosen to fly the wicked F-35 jet, but the fact that it is the same jet that killed her brother shows she has tremendous heart—even though she tries to hide it. She is strong, confident, and holds her own in a profession dominated by men. She is a woman who doesn’t let others tell her what to do or make her decisions for her. And she sure as hell doesn’t take no for an answer! But there is more depth to her than her tough exterior shows. She has the capacity to love on all cylinders, whether that be for her lost brother or the newfound, swoon worthy male lead, Locke. Her tenderness when she thinks of her brother and her passion for Locke prove her heart still works, though it is scarred and terrified of ever being wounded again. The push pull of her steel like exterior and her caring, tender, inner self makes for a great combination of a female lead with tons of complexity.

And Locke...holy hotness British fighter pilot LOCKE. He’s gorgeous, intelligent, funny, and has a sexy accent! What more could you want in the main love interest? How about the fact that Locke is ultra-perceptive when it comes to Tink? His keen eye for her deep brewing emotions—from the grief and guilt she feels over her brother’s death to the passion for Locke she’s trying to keep in check—sets him apart in the male lead role. Add to this his genuine care for Tink and his risk it all attitude to be with the woman he loves and Locke is the perfect man to fill your next book boyfriend role! Oh, and did I mention he has a unmatched sense of honor and sacrifice for his team and the good of our country? Well, yeah, he’s just that amazing :)

Rae didn’t just create these awesome characters and place them in an every day scenario either. She creates a world that many of us don’t get to see on a daily basis. Military life is a world on its own, but when you get to read/see through the eyes of one who serves, it is truly an enlightening experience, especially in such a unique position as fighter pilot. Tragedy strikes every day in the military world, though many of us don’t see or feel it. The media not only mis-reports on many of the instances, but they also filter it to what they deem is important. Getting a peek inside the world Rae has created forces the reader into a reality of the effects of war and the people who come home from it. The truth that shines through in this fictional tale adds a depth that pulls at the reader’s heart and allows them to see how much is sacrificed on all sides when a person answers the call to serve our country. Interweave into this unique setting Tink’s fierce drive to clear her brother’s name, the intense passion between her and Locke, and the threat of a war that could tear them apart permanently, and you’ve got one tension filled, action packed, and pant-worthy read.

CALL SIGN KARMA kicks the door in, setting itself apart with its unique world, complex characters, and high stakes no-nonsense attitude.
Profile Image for Kelly.
712 reviews51 followers
January 5, 2015
I love women who can kick butt and also have a feminine side to them. Tinklee is a female pilot and I am awed by that in itself. I also like men who are all business when it needs to be but also will love fiercely! And we got both in this story.

Tinklee Pinkerton has a Military Family. Her dad is out of the military but is now into Politics. Her mom loves her daughter. They all lost Colin, Tinklee’s brother, in the same jet that Tinklee is in training for. Tinklee believes that Colin died in the plane for a plane malfunction somewhere. Her dad and everyone else believes it was pilot error. Tinklee is out to find out what happened to him. She has a goal and didn’t expect to find love along the way; especially her superior officer. But he ignites something that has been long lost for awhile. She is afraid to feel. She doesn’t want to feel. She wants to find answers. Yet, she finds herself cracking and falling deeper.

Tink first meets Locke by kicking his butt, err, head! Well it was more of fumbling and loss of coordination that caused it, but it had me laughing so hard.

Locke is British working in the US Military. He is an excellent officer and has a pompous mother who thinks Tinklee is beneath them and that Locke shouldn’t be with the Americans. Locke and Tink need to be secretive if they want to be together. But as time goes on, her unit is tight and they all see it even though TInk and Lock try to hide it. I love her unit, they are all very different and it makes for some interesting moments! I hope I get to see some of the other guys with their books. I really want to see Ash, Stitch, Bodhi and Mojo’s stories.

I enjoyed watching how Tink got her call sign. It was perfect. I like how that happens, nope, don’t ask me how they do it, you have to read it to find out! I loved watching Locke and all his good-looking and thoughtful self with Tink and then be the officer he also has to be. That would be hard for me not to run up and hug my man and pretend nothing is going on!

The book started a little slow for me. I also do NOT like stories that start off with sex. I don’t know them and it makes my stomach sour. But I forged on and then once I got into it I couldn’t put it down. I was so mad when I was near the intense action scenes from war mixed with a little bit of doing stuff that could cause jail time for them because they don’t leave a man down and I had to go to work. Gah! I wanted to call out sick at work just so I could finish it. I wasn’t sure how it would go and my heart was pumping! I had to wait 14 hours to finish it. Yes, I was counting hours till I could finish a book!

So, if you want a book that has you laughing some, crying some (finding out what really happened to Colin), Military stories, kick butt females, British mother’s snobbery, pilots, unrequited love, a well written and easy to follow book even with the Military and pilot’s jargon, the word “dude”, war and intense action, then this might be for you.

I have one question- How do female pilots fly so many hours if they are on their period? Just wondering....
Profile Image for Melanie.
1,023 reviews14 followers
May 6, 2015
This was my first read by Jamie Rae and I have to say that I am hooked. Being a military spouse, I am very hesitant to read many military related stories, but I am so glad that I read this one!!! Jamie did such a good job of sticking to reality in this book that I felt like it was a real life story.
Tinklee is having a hard time dealing with her brother's death and has vowed to prove that his accident was not his own fault. Tink is in classes learning to fly the same jet that took her brother's life because it was a lifelong dream of theirs to fly together and her brother would do anything to make her happy, so he flew the same jet that Tink wanted to fly. The day before classes start, Tink has a chance encounter with a British man that she immediately falls hard for. The next day at class, Tink can hardly believe her eyes when she meets her new instructor and it is the same handsome British man that she meet the night before. They both know that they can loose their privilege to fly if they continue to see each other so they try to break it off, but feelings get in the way for both of them.
Tink deals with her struggles to overcome her guilt of her brothers death and in the mean time she pushes away anyone that she has feelings for because she feels that it is not fair for her to be able to experience things that her brother is never going to be able to experience again. Tink blames herself for her brother's accident for months.
Tink not only meets Locke, her British instructor, but another man as well that really likes her and only adds to the confusion for her. Ace is a Special Forces soldier and is very persistent in being able to date Tink. Tink realizes that she likes Ace more as a friend than anything else and that her feelings for Locke are only beginning to develop. Ace and Locke have their differences but in the long run, end up saving each other.
Being sent away to war with her Squadron and having Ace and Locke in the same Squadron with her makes Tink realize a lot while they are away. When trouble arises with Locke, Tink has no doubt that she is in love with him and will stop at nothing to help him. Tink and Ace both risk all to save Locke.
I love the way that this story kept you wondering how it was going to end and how all the relationships would end up. I love the story line and the characters were all very likable. Jamie, you have me hooked on your writing and I can not wait to see what the future has in store for your next books!!! Thanks for an awesome read!
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
Profile Image for sil ♡ the book voyagers.
1,064 reviews2,660 followers
September 11, 2015
6/1 You have bewitched me, Jamie Rae.

17/3 My review:

YOU JUST KILLED ME, JAMIE RAE. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.

When I first saw this book I didn’t think it could be this way. The way everything turned out. I’m like seriously speechless by this book. It left me with a big black hole instead of my heart. I’m all over it, in love with it, crazy about this book. It’s so good, guys. Go pick it up right now!!!

At first, those first chapters, honestly I thought of it kind of too fast and so much happening in one page. But now that I have finished I know it was meant to be that way. Tink has so much in her mind and so much happening to her, it just feels normal and natural by the time you arrived to chapter five. And Tink. That girl is my kickass badass bestie. She just rocks you know!?!?!? She is just so flawed and raw and human. She put a strong face when she hides tears inside. I mean this girl is rock and fire. I’m so in love with her and her story and her CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT throughout the whole book. Her journey made me share so many tears. *I’m still crying tbh*

Don’t even get me start with Locke. Can I throw some kisses and some sexy growls *I’m unable to do this but I’ll try for him*? I need one Locke in my life ASAP. Pronto. Soon. Give me please. He was so caring and so good and so real. He wanted Tink so badly, you could like feel it in your bones, his words felt so deep and were so deep, he was just so precious I wanted to crush him in a hug and tell him everything will be okay.

Jamie Rae, I am obviously going to expect an Ash book?????????????? *answer me please* *puppy eyes* *sobs* THE SECOND LEAD ROMANCE, THE CUTE SECOND LEAD ROMANCE that isn’t an asshole, that isn’t the rock between the main couple, HE JUST WANTS TINK TO BE HAPPY AND LOCKE MAKES HER HAPPY. Ash is SO GOOD. Like a good person and I cry every time he appeared. Like not really cried cried but he makes me have so many feelings and things inside of me, and probably those butterflies inside are because of him. He was just so *sigh* pretty.

[UPDATE: Doris told me right now there will be an Ash book] [runs around naked]

I’m very pleased with Call Sign Karma. I want more. I want more from Jamie. Jamie’s writing is flawless and I’m so into it. I can’t believe it’s her first novel published. She is a rock star.

Profile Image for Mignon Mykel.
Author 95 books654 followers
January 7, 2015
4.5 / 5 stars!
Full review (from blog tour stop, with Tink's top 10 lesson's learned!) is at
http://mnonmklreviews.blogspot.com/20...

CALL SIGN KARMA takes on a familiar theme of a military person having immense guilt after losing a fellow military person (...that's me being 'politically correct'; as a Marine brat, I can't tell you how many times I've heard "I'm not a soldier; that's Army" -- so I can't say 'fellow soldier' because that is upsetting to people...). The difference in this book is Jamie tweaked it a bit and rather than the guilty person being a brother-in-arms...

...it's a sibling.

Tink lost her best friend, her confidant, her big brother.

...and she hasn't forgiven herself.

Tink believes it's karma.

On one particularly rough night (July 4th), she screams into the ocean, tosses a bottle, and meets a stranger. Steps on a crab, too, just to keep the bad karma going. The stranger ends up being part of a night she doesn't want to forget. He's sexy, British, and wants to see her again.

And in another cruel twist of fate, he ends up being her superior and instructor for the F-35.

Tink believes her life is one bad karma event after another.

I have to say, the beginning of the book was extremely comical. I've read books that stated they were comedy-style, and never laughed.

I laughed in this one. And Tink and her whole Knight-turned-asshole thoughts? Loved.

Perhaps my favorite part of the book was the naming ceremony.

I loved watching the battling emotions between Tink and Locke. I loved that Locke wanted to fight for them -- right from the beginning, mind you -- and wanted to help Tink past her troubles. I loved that Jamie didn't write Tink as a pushover, but as an extremely hard-headed, independent lady, and as such, she wasn't a push over. Locke had to work for Tink, and I just enjoyed that to pieces.

I loved their meeting, their build-up, the fall, the fears, the war, the coming home, the family issues... the proposal (oh, come on, that's not a teaser; this is a flipping romance -- of course it ends in some sort of proposal).

Immediately after finishing, I 'tweeted' Jamie, stating that I hoped Ash and Bodhi (the awesome doc that is Locke's friend and an altogether awesome, fist pumping 'dude') were talking to her, because I needed to see their happily-ever-afters.

No worries, y'all, their books are coming, too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.