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American Valor #3
From the Start
The Rangers of the 1st/75th fight hard, train hard and play hard. They are physically strong and mentally tough, disciplined and courageous. But all their military training hasn't prepared them for falling in love.
For many women, Ranger Battalion Surgeon Michael MacGregor is the ideal man. He's far better than average looking, a generous tipper, not to mention an officer and a doctor. So when he encounters a woman resistant to his charms, he finds himself... intrigued.
Kacie Morgan has had her fill of arrogant military men since the last one left her with a shattered heart and one heck of a career rut. Now, with her prestigious fellowship starting in the fall, all she has to do is survive the summer--and her little sister's wedding.
When an ill-fitting bridesmaid dress has Kacie wanting to temporarily shake things up in her carefully planned life, she knows just the man to call. They agree to a no-strings, summer fling, although it isn't long before Michael wants Kacie for forever.
But to win her heart, he'll have to confront the nightmares from his past if they're to have any chance at a future.
For many women, Ranger Battalion Surgeon Michael MacGregor is the ideal man. He's far better than average looking, a generous tipper, not to mention an officer and a doctor. So when he encounters a woman resistant to his charms, he finds himself... intrigued.
Kacie Morgan has had her fill of arrogant military men since the last one left her with a shattered heart and one heck of a career rut. Now, with her prestigious fellowship starting in the fall, all she has to do is survive the summer--and her little sister's wedding.
When an ill-fitting bridesmaid dress has Kacie wanting to temporarily shake things up in her carefully planned life, she knows just the man to call. They agree to a no-strings, summer fling, although it isn't long before Michael wants Kacie for forever.
But to win her heart, he'll have to confront the nightmares from his past if they're to have any chance at a future.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2017
10 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl Etchison
3 books50 followersCheryl Etchison began her writing career as an oil and gas reporter in her home state of Oklahoma. Bored to tears and broke as hell, it wasn't long before she jumped ship and headed for the promise land of public relations. But that was a nearly a lifetime ago and she's traded in reporting the facts for making it all up.
You can find me at:
www.facebook.com/CherylEtchisonBooks
www.twitter.com/_cheryletchison
www.instagram.com/_cheryletchison
You can find me at:
www.facebook.com/CherylEtchisonBooks
www.twitter.com/_cheryletchison
www.instagram.com/_cheryletchison
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 30, 2017
A fun, well-written story that had me smiling and swooning. I pretty much inhaled the story, it put a hook on me that held until the end.
The characters and the events are very much lifelike, the awkwardness of dating, the doubts about reciprocated feelings, the family drama and the sibling rivalry, it all felt real and the whole story unravels like a friend telling you a story about falling in love and finding their destiny.
Michael MacGregor is a hero that was easy to like. He has a great, warped sense of humor, he carries his responsibilities, he is straightforward, honest, kind, a bit arrogant at times, and sexy as can be. I really liked him and his family-oriented mindset, and the respect he had to his parents made me admire him even more.
Kacie Morgan has had enough hurt and being looked over by men. She has closed off her feelings, she keeps people at arm's length, and can come off as rather prickly at times. She keeps telling Michael that he is arrogant, but she had him beat with that on several occasions.
The chemistry between Michael and Kacie was hot, within the limits Kacie would allow it. In my mind they were perfect together, it just took them longer to see that and figure it all out. But once they start to open up to each other and see themselves what an amazing ally they have on each other, the damage that they had done to their relationship might be too much to overcome.
I enjoyed the family connections they both have, and the big role both of their families play in the story. The tale has an authentic feeling to it throughout, lifelike and genuine, from the relationship with their parents and siblings to their friends and co-workers as fell as the relationship they have with each other. There are many things in the story that made me smile, the fact that Michael's brother calls Kacie a Malibu Barby, and Kacie and her sister call Michael a G.I. Joe gave a great mental image of them, of their beauty, and of their humor.
From the Start is a sweet, lively, and enjoyable story about family, siblings, friends, and lovers. It is about a summer fling that turns into a thing, it is about the awkwardness of a new relationship, and about the joyful, fearful, bliss of falling in love and finding your true mate. A lovely and entertaining story that easily swept me off my feet and held my interest from the start to finish.
~ Four Spoons
The characters and the events are very much lifelike, the awkwardness of dating, the doubts about reciprocated feelings, the family drama and the sibling rivalry, it all felt real and the whole story unravels like a friend telling you a story about falling in love and finding their destiny.
Michael MacGregor is a hero that was easy to like. He has a great, warped sense of humor, he carries his responsibilities, he is straightforward, honest, kind, a bit arrogant at times, and sexy as can be. I really liked him and his family-oriented mindset, and the respect he had to his parents made me admire him even more.
Kacie Morgan has had enough hurt and being looked over by men. She has closed off her feelings, she keeps people at arm's length, and can come off as rather prickly at times. She keeps telling Michael that he is arrogant, but she had him beat with that on several occasions.
The chemistry between Michael and Kacie was hot, within the limits Kacie would allow it. In my mind they were perfect together, it just took them longer to see that and figure it all out. But once they start to open up to each other and see themselves what an amazing ally they have on each other, the damage that they had done to their relationship might be too much to overcome.
I enjoyed the family connections they both have, and the big role both of their families play in the story. The tale has an authentic feeling to it throughout, lifelike and genuine, from the relationship with their parents and siblings to their friends and co-workers as fell as the relationship they have with each other. There are many things in the story that made me smile, the fact that Michael's brother calls Kacie a Malibu Barby, and Kacie and her sister call Michael a G.I. Joe gave a great mental image of them, of their beauty, and of their humor.
From the Start is a sweet, lively, and enjoyable story about family, siblings, friends, and lovers. It is about a summer fling that turns into a thing, it is about the awkwardness of a new relationship, and about the joyful, fearful, bliss of falling in love and finding your true mate. A lovely and entertaining story that easily swept me off my feet and held my interest from the start to finish.
~ Four Spoons
May 23, 2017
From the Start by Cheryl Etchison
•Wedding
What a way to start a great book! I was smiling and sucked I'm from the get go! There's lots of spunk throughout this story. Will one night be enough... No! Maybe just a summer fling without feelings??? Hopefully... But what happens when life decisions get in the way? You'll have to read From the Start to find out! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book via Tasty Book Tours through Edelweiss for an honest blog tour review. Due to sexual situations this book is recommended for readers 18 and older!
•Wedding
What a way to start a great book! I was smiling and sucked I'm from the get go! There's lots of spunk throughout this story. Will one night be enough... No! Maybe just a summer fling without feelings??? Hopefully... But what happens when life decisions get in the way? You'll have to read From the Start to find out! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book via Tasty Book Tours through Edelweiss for an honest blog tour review. Due to sexual situations this book is recommended for readers 18 and older!
May 25, 2017
Kacie Morgan finds it hard not to be jealous of her younger sister who is soon to be married. It should have been her, especially when she was in a relationship for seven years, but instead she and her boyfriend went their separate ways. Determined not to have her heart broken again, she's sworn off dating military men and promised herself she won't put any of her plans on hold. Except Michael MacGregor isn't a man she can easily ignore, no matter how much she wants to. So, when a problem arises she needs help with she turns to Michael. Can she keep her heart out of their deal, or will she fall for the type of man she swore she'd never fall for again?
What an enjoyable read Ms. Etchison has penned in this third book of her American Valor series, which started with me feeling sorry for the heroine, as she's not having fun and should be because it's supposed to be a happy moment for her sister. Will meeting Michael make the night better? Will Kacie do something she doesn't normally do? However, what I liked most about the beginning of this story is the moment the hero and heroine meet. Michael isn't used to a woman being resistant to his charm, and the fact that Kacie is make things interesting. Then again, the fact that he has some things in common with her ex doesn't help. Will Kacie be able to overlook what he does have in common with her ex?
The dialogue was well-written, intriguing and drew me in because of the main characters back stories, the way the heroine is resistant to the hero's charms, the proposition the heroine has for the hero and discovering whether the heroine will realize how much she wants Michael in her life before it's too late. More importantly, will she realize that Michael is nothing like her ex, despite the fact that there are similarities between the two men? Furthermore, I really liked the heroine and couldn't help but be affected by all the emotions she experiences -- happy, jealousy, sadness. She's happy because of Michael coming into her life at a time where she needed him. Also, she can't help but be a tad jealous of her sister's happiness and the fact that she's getting married. Then there's the moment where she's sad and realizes what a mistake she's made in doubting Michael.
Both the main characters entertained me from start to finish, and I loved their playful banter, as Michael does his best to charm the heroine and make her see that he's a good guy. Will he win Kacie over completely? Moreover, I felt for the hero when he talked about his past, what happened to his brother and the promise he made to someone he loved. Because by honoring said promise, he's continuing to stay in a job that threatens to end his relationship with Kacie. Will he finally do what's right for him, instead of sacrificing his chance at happy ever after for a promise he made when he was so young? While the heroine, her ex did a real number on her and I could understand why she's so hesitant to give another man a chance, especially a man that reminds her so much of her ex in regards to his career and his name. I also liked how determined she was to stick to her plans, no matter how much she and Michael cared for each other.
Overall, Ms. Etchison has penned a delightful read in this book where the chemistry was strong, the romance was wonderful and illustrated just how much these two needed each other to heal from the hurts of their pasts. The way this story ended was perfect, because of what Michael did to be with Kacie. It proves just how much he loves her and wants to be with her. However, it was the final chapter that wrapped this story up perfectly, as Kacie fits right in with Michael's family and I loved how they teased each other, especially when Kacie and Michael are talking about the moment they first met. I would recommend From the Start by Cheryl Etchison, if you enjoy the matchmaker trope or books by authors Cristin Harber, Codi Gary or Cora Seton.
What an enjoyable read Ms. Etchison has penned in this third book of her American Valor series, which started with me feeling sorry for the heroine, as she's not having fun and should be because it's supposed to be a happy moment for her sister. Will meeting Michael make the night better? Will Kacie do something she doesn't normally do? However, what I liked most about the beginning of this story is the moment the hero and heroine meet. Michael isn't used to a woman being resistant to his charm, and the fact that Kacie is make things interesting. Then again, the fact that he has some things in common with her ex doesn't help. Will Kacie be able to overlook what he does have in common with her ex?
The dialogue was well-written, intriguing and drew me in because of the main characters back stories, the way the heroine is resistant to the hero's charms, the proposition the heroine has for the hero and discovering whether the heroine will realize how much she wants Michael in her life before it's too late. More importantly, will she realize that Michael is nothing like her ex, despite the fact that there are similarities between the two men? Furthermore, I really liked the heroine and couldn't help but be affected by all the emotions she experiences -- happy, jealousy, sadness. She's happy because of Michael coming into her life at a time where she needed him. Also, she can't help but be a tad jealous of her sister's happiness and the fact that she's getting married. Then there's the moment where she's sad and realizes what a mistake she's made in doubting Michael.
Both the main characters entertained me from start to finish, and I loved their playful banter, as Michael does his best to charm the heroine and make her see that he's a good guy. Will he win Kacie over completely? Moreover, I felt for the hero when he talked about his past, what happened to his brother and the promise he made to someone he loved. Because by honoring said promise, he's continuing to stay in a job that threatens to end his relationship with Kacie. Will he finally do what's right for him, instead of sacrificing his chance at happy ever after for a promise he made when he was so young? While the heroine, her ex did a real number on her and I could understand why she's so hesitant to give another man a chance, especially a man that reminds her so much of her ex in regards to his career and his name. I also liked how determined she was to stick to her plans, no matter how much she and Michael cared for each other.
Overall, Ms. Etchison has penned a delightful read in this book where the chemistry was strong, the romance was wonderful and illustrated just how much these two needed each other to heal from the hurts of their pasts. The way this story ended was perfect, because of what Michael did to be with Kacie. It proves just how much he loves her and wants to be with her. However, it was the final chapter that wrapped this story up perfectly, as Kacie fits right in with Michael's family and I loved how they teased each other, especially when Kacie and Michael are talking about the moment they first met. I would recommend From the Start by Cheryl Etchison, if you enjoy the matchmaker trope or books by authors Cristin Harber, Codi Gary or Cora Seton.
July 10, 2017
4.5 Stars!
Having just finished the first book in Cheryl Etchison’s American Valor series, I immediately downloaded the third book, because I just HAD to read Michael’s story! It did not disappoint. (Well, not until the very, very end...but I’ll get to that.)
Kacie Morgan is probably one of the most relatable thirty-something heroines I’ve read about in quite a while. She’s a strong, independent woman who is recovering from a dead-end relationship. When she found out her boyfriend of seven years had no plans to make their relationship permanent, she walked away. But now her younger sister - who dated a guy for only four months - is about to get married, and while she’s happy her sister has found the love of her life, she’s also feeling a little sad for herself. Not overly so, but she wants that, too. But she’s not going to ever let herself play second fiddle to a man ever again, either. I loved how she was determined to be the pilot of her own destiny, but was also real enough with herself to admit she’s disappointed with where her life has gone and maybe a little jealous of what her sister has. Don’t we all experience that in some point of our life?
Michael MacGregor is an army surgeon who lives his whole life because of his sense of duty to his family. More specifically his younger brother. Never mind that his “little brother” is now in his thirties and married, with a career in the army that he loves. It’s not that Michael isn’t happy with his life, but when he meets Kacie at a bar during her sister’s bachelorette party, he finally realizes his life is missing something. When all Kacie will offer him is a summer friends-with-benefits-type fling, he figures that’s better than nothing.
Together, Kacie and Michael’s banter is hilarious. Even though Michael comes across as arrogant and cocky, he does so in a charming and irresistible way. He talks a big game, but his actions are far different - he’s thoughtful and kind, and shows Kacie in dozens of ways how much he cares for her. It's no wonder Kacie is willing to ignore her “no-fly list” for him. And she begins to have strong feelings for him as well.
When the end-date for their relationship comes, neither is feeling like they want it to be the end. Michael actually takes a chance to tell Kacie how he’s truly feeling and asks her not to leave. It was a scene that had me cheering because 99 times out of a hundred neither the hero or the heroine will say anything and the other person walks away, and then they’re both sad and hurt and mopey… It was SO refreshing to see a hero open himself up and lay everything on the table. Of course, Michael still messes things up and Kacie leaves. But that’s okay - because it opened the door for a grand gesture. And I LOVE a grand gesture!!!
Now, for the part I didn’t like about this book. This story ends with Kacie and Michael happy for now. I don’t like happy-for-now. I want happily-ever-after, dang it! But, I can totally see why the H-F-N ending was appropriate for this couple. There’s a promise of H-E-E, but I really would have liked to read it. But other than that disappointing-to-me ending, I LOVED this book. It had the opportunity to be cliched several times, but didn’t. The writing was fantastic (although I did see quite a few proofreading errors), and I loved the characters. I really, really liked this book!
(So, if I really, really liked this book, why only a 4 star rating? This book definitely deserves more than four, but I’ve decided that I’ll only give a 5-star rating to books that I’ll want to re-read. As much as I liked this book, I’m not sure it’s quite in the “re-read” category for me. But otherwise, this was a completely satisfying, entertaining book to read!)
Having just finished the first book in Cheryl Etchison’s American Valor series, I immediately downloaded the third book, because I just HAD to read Michael’s story! It did not disappoint. (Well, not until the very, very end...but I’ll get to that.)
Kacie Morgan is probably one of the most relatable thirty-something heroines I’ve read about in quite a while. She’s a strong, independent woman who is recovering from a dead-end relationship. When she found out her boyfriend of seven years had no plans to make their relationship permanent, she walked away. But now her younger sister - who dated a guy for only four months - is about to get married, and while she’s happy her sister has found the love of her life, she’s also feeling a little sad for herself. Not overly so, but she wants that, too. But she’s not going to ever let herself play second fiddle to a man ever again, either. I loved how she was determined to be the pilot of her own destiny, but was also real enough with herself to admit she’s disappointed with where her life has gone and maybe a little jealous of what her sister has. Don’t we all experience that in some point of our life?
Michael MacGregor is an army surgeon who lives his whole life because of his sense of duty to his family. More specifically his younger brother. Never mind that his “little brother” is now in his thirties and married, with a career in the army that he loves. It’s not that Michael isn’t happy with his life, but when he meets Kacie at a bar during her sister’s bachelorette party, he finally realizes his life is missing something. When all Kacie will offer him is a summer friends-with-benefits-type fling, he figures that’s better than nothing.
Together, Kacie and Michael’s banter is hilarious. Even though Michael comes across as arrogant and cocky, he does so in a charming and irresistible way. He talks a big game, but his actions are far different - he’s thoughtful and kind, and shows Kacie in dozens of ways how much he cares for her. It's no wonder Kacie is willing to ignore her “no-fly list” for him. And she begins to have strong feelings for him as well.
When the end-date for their relationship comes, neither is feeling like they want it to be the end. Michael actually takes a chance to tell Kacie how he’s truly feeling and asks her not to leave. It was a scene that had me cheering because 99 times out of a hundred neither the hero or the heroine will say anything and the other person walks away, and then they’re both sad and hurt and mopey… It was SO refreshing to see a hero open himself up and lay everything on the table. Of course, Michael still messes things up and Kacie leaves. But that’s okay - because it opened the door for a grand gesture. And I LOVE a grand gesture!!!
Now, for the part I didn’t like about this book. This story ends with Kacie and Michael happy for now. I don’t like happy-for-now. I want happily-ever-after, dang it! But, I can totally see why the H-F-N ending was appropriate for this couple. There’s a promise of H-E-E, but I really would have liked to read it. But other than that disappointing-to-me ending, I LOVED this book. It had the opportunity to be cliched several times, but didn’t. The writing was fantastic (although I did see quite a few proofreading errors), and I loved the characters. I really, really liked this book!
(So, if I really, really liked this book, why only a 4 star rating? This book definitely deserves more than four, but I’ve decided that I’ll only give a 5-star rating to books that I’ll want to re-read. As much as I liked this book, I’m not sure it’s quite in the “re-read” category for me. But otherwise, this was a completely satisfying, entertaining book to read!)
August 7, 2017
Find this review and more at Ramblings From This Chick
I have become a huge fan of Cheryl Etchison's over the course of her American Valor series. With each book of hers I have read, she continues to impress me with her writing talent and is quickly becoming an author that I can't get enough of. From the Start is the third book in the American Valor series, but each book is a standalone story so don't worry about starting with this one if you haven't read the previous two books.
When Kacie finds herself at her sister's bachelorette party in need of saving, Michael MacGregor rushes in to save her. But while there is a chemistry and attraction to each other, Kacie is the one woman who wants nothing to do with Michael. As if him being in the military and being a surgeon weren't enough to make her run after her past, the fact that she is leaving at the end of the summer would. So when Kacie finds herself in a situation wanting to through caution to the wind, she knows Michael is just the man to help her out. What starts out as a summer fling turns into more, but Michael will have his work cut out for him convincing her to give a future a real shot.
I really liked these two. I felt their chemistry and the attraction between them right away. But there was so much more that was developing between them and I really enjoyed seeing that. Kacie had a past that made it hard to let someone in, especially with Michael having some things working against him right from the start. But I felt like he was so good for her and I was glad that she decided to shake things up a bit and do something out of character for her. Michael was a really great guy, and I felt like he needed Kacie just as much as she needed him. These two were just so good together.
Overall, another great book from Cheryl Etchison and I am loving this series! If you like contemporary romance and military heroes, this is definitely a series you need to check out! Cheryl Etchison seems to get better with each book she writes, and I can't wait to read more from her in the future.
**ARC Provided by Publisher**
I have become a huge fan of Cheryl Etchison's over the course of her American Valor series. With each book of hers I have read, she continues to impress me with her writing talent and is quickly becoming an author that I can't get enough of. From the Start is the third book in the American Valor series, but each book is a standalone story so don't worry about starting with this one if you haven't read the previous two books.
When Kacie finds herself at her sister's bachelorette party in need of saving, Michael MacGregor rushes in to save her. But while there is a chemistry and attraction to each other, Kacie is the one woman who wants nothing to do with Michael. As if him being in the military and being a surgeon weren't enough to make her run after her past, the fact that she is leaving at the end of the summer would. So when Kacie finds herself in a situation wanting to through caution to the wind, she knows Michael is just the man to help her out. What starts out as a summer fling turns into more, but Michael will have his work cut out for him convincing her to give a future a real shot.
I really liked these two. I felt their chemistry and the attraction between them right away. But there was so much more that was developing between them and I really enjoyed seeing that. Kacie had a past that made it hard to let someone in, especially with Michael having some things working against him right from the start. But I felt like he was so good for her and I was glad that she decided to shake things up a bit and do something out of character for her. Michael was a really great guy, and I felt like he needed Kacie just as much as she needed him. These two were just so good together.
Overall, another great book from Cheryl Etchison and I am loving this series! If you like contemporary romance and military heroes, this is definitely a series you need to check out! Cheryl Etchison seems to get better with each book she writes, and I can't wait to read more from her in the future.
**ARC Provided by Publisher**
May 24, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This is book #3 in a series about a battalion. I have never read this a author before and I did not read any of the other books. I believe this book mostly stands alone. It is about army surgeon Mike/Michael McGregor and the woman he meets one night at her sisters bachelorette party, Kacie.
This book is very heavy on the military and the army. So if you are looking for a military romance then this is a really good one and I felt it dealt with both sides, the good and bad. So many military romances deal with the whole good, the serving our country, the heroness but none really discuss how hard a life it really is for those who love a military man. I liked the honesty in this story.
Something else that you should know before reading is this book starts in 2013. It starts then and the entire book is in 2013. I am not really sure why, at first reading it I thought it was a prologue and then it would jump to 2017 but it never did and so you should know its all in 2013.
Kacie has a list of guys she won't date and she meets this hot guy at a honky tonk type of bar on the night he ticks the top 3 on her list of who to never date:
1. His name is Mike
2. He is Military
3. Works at the Battalion
Why? well because her ex was name Mike, was military and works at the battalion. So after waking up with Mike after the bachelorette party she refuses to date him. But Kaycie is very lonely and with her sister so happy and getting married she agrees to a benefits/summer fling because after the summer she is moving away.
And thats how Mike and Kaycie get to know each other. It was fun watching them fall for the other. They have some big issues to deal with and at times I found Mike annoying. I wanted him to just live his life and not have to save the world. But I loved Kaycie. She was a strong, kick ass woman who was not ashamed to feel jealous of her sister and be sad and lonely with her life and then make the changes to find her happiness.
This story was extremely well written and I loved the entire story.
This is book #3 in a series about a battalion. I have never read this a author before and I did not read any of the other books. I believe this book mostly stands alone. It is about army surgeon Mike/Michael McGregor and the woman he meets one night at her sisters bachelorette party, Kacie.
This book is very heavy on the military and the army. So if you are looking for a military romance then this is a really good one and I felt it dealt with both sides, the good and bad. So many military romances deal with the whole good, the serving our country, the heroness but none really discuss how hard a life it really is for those who love a military man. I liked the honesty in this story.
Something else that you should know before reading is this book starts in 2013. It starts then and the entire book is in 2013. I am not really sure why, at first reading it I thought it was a prologue and then it would jump to 2017 but it never did and so you should know its all in 2013.
Kacie has a list of guys she won't date and she meets this hot guy at a honky tonk type of bar on the night he ticks the top 3 on her list of who to never date:
1. His name is Mike
2. He is Military
3. Works at the Battalion
Why? well because her ex was name Mike, was military and works at the battalion. So after waking up with Mike after the bachelorette party she refuses to date him. But Kaycie is very lonely and with her sister so happy and getting married she agrees to a benefits/summer fling because after the summer she is moving away.
And thats how Mike and Kaycie get to know each other. It was fun watching them fall for the other. They have some big issues to deal with and at times I found Mike annoying. I wanted him to just live his life and not have to save the world. But I loved Kaycie. She was a strong, kick ass woman who was not ashamed to feel jealous of her sister and be sad and lonely with her life and then make the changes to find her happiness.
This story was extremely well written and I loved the entire story.
August 13, 2017
Anche la storia di Michael MacGregor , come il primo libro della serie dedicata al fratello Danny, è un contemporaneo pseudo militare, visto che i protagonisti appartengono al corpo dei Rangers dell'esercito americano ma delle loro operazioni militari non vi è quasi traccia nel racconto. Nel primo un po'd i più, in questo per niente. Tutto avviene mentre Mike, medico dell'esercito, è d'istanza negli USA e incontra quasi per caso Kacie, capace di fargli girare la testa come mai nessuna prima. Lei, dopo un lungo fidanzamento sempre con un militare finito miseramente non ha voglia di tornare a innamorarsi . HA deciso di prendere un diploma di specializzazione che la porterà lontano dalla sua città per un anno, non vuole impegnarsi con nessuno. Il flirt con Mike, che da sempre non si impegna con le donne, le sembra sia la giusta storiella estiva per superare la delusione del lungo fidanzamento andato in fumo e poi continuare con la sua vita. Solo che basta poco ad entrambi per capire che fra loro c'è qualcosa che va oltre la semplice attrazione. Lui però è deciso a rifirmare con l'esercito per seguire il fratello in operazione di guerra e lei non se la sente più di stare con qualcuno che rischia la vita per lavoro. Un rapporto destinato alla fine quindi. O No?
E' una storia con personaggi normali, che ragionano da trentenni quali sono, in modo finalmente maturo. Dopo aver letto alcune storie con eroine che sembrano adolescenti, una bel cambiamento. Entrambi, sebbene restii ad impegnare il proprio cuore, capiscono di aver incontrato, senza volerlo, la persona giusta. Ma è il momento giusto?
Happy end assicurato, non senza un po' di fatica, come è logico. E' un libro ben scritto, l'unico problema per me è che la storia è un po' tutta qui. Non succede nulla di particolarmente eclatante. Nessuna situazione che prenda particolarmente allo stomaco., per quanto mi riguarda. Una lettura piacevole, ma non particolarmente memorabile.
E' una storia con personaggi normali, che ragionano da trentenni quali sono, in modo finalmente maturo. Dopo aver letto alcune storie con eroine che sembrano adolescenti, una bel cambiamento. Entrambi, sebbene restii ad impegnare il proprio cuore, capiscono di aver incontrato, senza volerlo, la persona giusta. Ma è il momento giusto?
Happy end assicurato, non senza un po' di fatica, come è logico. E' un libro ben scritto, l'unico problema per me è che la storia è un po' tutta qui. Non succede nulla di particolarmente eclatante. Nessuna situazione che prenda particolarmente allo stomaco., per quanto mi riguarda. Una lettura piacevole, ma non particolarmente memorabile.
May 25, 2017
Sometimes the things in life that you resist the most end up bringing you the most joy. Kacie Morgan has been adamant that she would never date another military man after having her heart broken. She has finally gotten her career back on tract after being stuck in a rut by her previous boyfriend. Landing a prestigious fellowship beginning in the fall, all she has to do is get through the summer and her little sister's wedding. But the best laid plans often go awry...
Michael MacGregor is a Ranger Battalion Surgeon in one of the most prestigious units in the Army. Having enlisted in the military to keep a promise to his mom to watch over his little brother, his last deployment was a nightmare when his brother was seriously injured on the battlefield. Now he is hoping that he will be able to begin a life in the civilian world if only he can get his brother to agree to not re-enlist. When that hope is extinguished, he must decide between the woman who now holds his heart and the little brother he swore to protect.
Military romance is my very favorite genre and Cheryl Etchison is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. My heart hurt for Mike and the nightmare that he went though with his brother and I so hoped for him to find his happily every after. Kacie was the perfect match for Mike - velvet wrapped in steel. Watching the two of them dance around their attraction and then fall in love was so much fun. While this is book 3 in the series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone. But then you would miss out on the first two fantastic reads in this series. These are not stories you want to miss!
Michael MacGregor is a Ranger Battalion Surgeon in one of the most prestigious units in the Army. Having enlisted in the military to keep a promise to his mom to watch over his little brother, his last deployment was a nightmare when his brother was seriously injured on the battlefield. Now he is hoping that he will be able to begin a life in the civilian world if only he can get his brother to agree to not re-enlist. When that hope is extinguished, he must decide between the woman who now holds his heart and the little brother he swore to protect.
Military romance is my very favorite genre and Cheryl Etchison is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. My heart hurt for Mike and the nightmare that he went though with his brother and I so hoped for him to find his happily every after. Kacie was the perfect match for Mike - velvet wrapped in steel. Watching the two of them dance around their attraction and then fall in love was so much fun. While this is book 3 in the series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone. But then you would miss out on the first two fantastic reads in this series. These are not stories you want to miss!
October 16, 2017
I was super excited to read From the Start. I had never read one of Cheryl Etchison's books. After hearing so many good things about her American Valor series I knew I wanted to give it a go. I knew it was going to be an emotional romance, but I don't think I was prepared for how much I was going to giggle throughout this book. I loved the early scenes between Kacie and Michael, especially when it seemed like everything was stacked against them. I loved that Michael didn't give up on their connection. He knew that there was something worth exploring, but if he had to put the ball solely in Kacie's court for her to decide, Michael was willing to put it on the line. Yeah, the "monkey wrench" moment what 95% his fault, he didn't dwell too long before realizing his mistake. As for Kacie, my heart broke for her. She puts on a brace face while watching her little sister get married. She's determined to follow her own path. She's been burned once and she makes Michael work for her attention.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed From the Start. And while I am kicking myself for not starting this series from the beginning, I'm not sure if I can go back to read the first book knowing things about Michael's brother. Even as a background character, Danny broke me to pieces. I'll update when I decide. Until then... If you enjoy emotional and sexy romances with a military hero and a guarded heroine, pick up this book.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed From the Start. And while I am kicking myself for not starting this series from the beginning, I'm not sure if I can go back to read the first book knowing things about Michael's brother. Even as a background character, Danny broke me to pieces. I'll update when I decide. Until then... If you enjoy emotional and sexy romances with a military hero and a guarded heroine, pick up this book.
June 2, 2017
So this is the second book I have read in Cheryl Etchison American Valor series, and believe when I tell you, that this series just gets better and better!
So the story begins with Kacie Morgan, whom had just ended a 7 year long distance relationship with a marine, who had serious commitment issues. But the only thing that is on Kacie's mind, is getting through her younger sisters wedding, and making to Duke to start her fellowship. The last thing Kacie expects, is to get into another relationship! Especially someone who is in the military!
Now as a teaser, I'm going to leave it there! But needless to say, you will absolutely fall in love with Michael MacGregor, handsome surgeon for the Army Rangers, but with many things, everything is not quite as it seems, and you easily get drawn in to this beautiful military romance, with not only the great characters, but the wonderful plot and writing! This is definitely a book you should grab for the summer!
I give From The Start 5 stars
So the story begins with Kacie Morgan, whom had just ended a 7 year long distance relationship with a marine, who had serious commitment issues. But the only thing that is on Kacie's mind, is getting through her younger sisters wedding, and making to Duke to start her fellowship. The last thing Kacie expects, is to get into another relationship! Especially someone who is in the military!
Now as a teaser, I'm going to leave it there! But needless to say, you will absolutely fall in love with Michael MacGregor, handsome surgeon for the Army Rangers, but with many things, everything is not quite as it seems, and you easily get drawn in to this beautiful military romance, with not only the great characters, but the wonderful plot and writing! This is definitely a book you should grab for the summer!
I give From The Start 5 stars
May 7, 2017
Michael has been a playboy most of his life. Until he meets the maid of honor in a bar. Summer fling commences. Michael is struggling with staying in, or early retirement. The relationship complicated matters. This one was so good! I can't wait for more!
May 22, 2017
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Beautiful, poignant and touching with lovely characters and a strong and well developed prose. I loved it and would recommend it to everyone. The book was a one sit read for me and I can't wait to read more from the author. A definite 4. 5 stars read.
Beautiful, poignant and touching with lovely characters and a strong and well developed prose. I loved it and would recommend it to everyone. The book was a one sit read for me and I can't wait to read more from the author. A definite 4. 5 stars read.
December 21, 2017
New author, really liked ;)
February 11, 2018
Great Reading! I really enjoy Reading Cheryl Etchinson books! Looking forward to the next book!
October 9, 2024
The writing just flows really well and Etchison’s characters always feel very real. This was the perfect pace to lead up to the wedding and each part felt like it was helping to develop the story instead of just filling time. I always appreciate a romance that the characters have to work for and make compromises for. It makes the story feel more real when it’s not just wrapped up in a pretty bow. Both characters had to really confront their preconceptions and hang ups in order to work things out. I also liked that they didn’t fall into instant love with each other and it took time for them to really learn each other. At the same time, they each cared for the other so that helped to develop the eventual “I love you’s”.
Kacie was ready to move on with her life but she couldn’t stay away from Michael. Kacie was a perfect blend of strong and independent but also flawed and self-conscious about certain things. Basically, Kacie was like an actual real life woman who might be put on a tough facade but still has some insecurities. She was also pretty honest with herself and knew when she needed to make some life changes.
Michael was a wonderful hero and he will definitely make a great new book boyfriend. I loved how charming and cocky he was without being annoying about it. His joking and innuendos really helped bring his character to life and I often found myself chuckling at his comments. I was also happy to see Bree and Danny again because Once and For All is probably my favorite book by Cheryl Etchison so far.
There were some scenes that were dropped at a chapter end and I wanted to actually experience the scene. For instance, Kacie is confronting Michael on why he can’t leave the military and the chapter ends when she realizes what he promised his mom. We don’t see anything else from this scene and are left to wonder how the rest of that conversation went.
Kacie was ready to move on with her life but she couldn’t stay away from Michael. Kacie was a perfect blend of strong and independent but also flawed and self-conscious about certain things. Basically, Kacie was like an actual real life woman who might be put on a tough facade but still has some insecurities. She was also pretty honest with herself and knew when she needed to make some life changes.
Michael was a wonderful hero and he will definitely make a great new book boyfriend. I loved how charming and cocky he was without being annoying about it. His joking and innuendos really helped bring his character to life and I often found myself chuckling at his comments. I was also happy to see Bree and Danny again because Once and For All is probably my favorite book by Cheryl Etchison so far.
There were some scenes that were dropped at a chapter end and I wanted to actually experience the scene. For instance, Kacie is confronting Michael on why he can’t leave the military and the chapter ends when she realizes what he promised his mom. We don’t see anything else from this scene and are left to wonder how the rest of that conversation went.
September 4, 2017
Another Winner
Michael has been teasing us since Danny and Bree's story and now finally he meets his match. I loved that Kacie didn't fall for Michael's charms too fast and that he didn't give up. There was a unique blend of slow burn and instant hit. I feel like Cheryl Etchison just keeps getting better with each book!
Michael has been teasing us since Danny and Bree's story and now finally he meets his match. I loved that Kacie didn't fall for Michael's charms too fast and that he didn't give up. There was a unique blend of slow burn and instant hit. I feel like Cheryl Etchison just keeps getting better with each book!
August 21, 2017
Loved the meet cute of this older sister/maid of honor at a bachlorette party & this military man/ doctor/older brother. Adored the relationship between the hero and his family and all the ways the hero treats our heroine right.
November 11, 2017
This series makes my heart happy. I have loved all the characters and I can't wait for the rest. I don't know what to say except that Cheryl just has an easy, effortless and honest writing style that just speaks to me. I care about these characters and their stories.
July 9, 2017
Ranger Battalion Surgeon
Michael MacGregor
(boy that’s a mouthful) first meets
Kacie Morgan
at her sister’s bachelorette party. Kacie is reluctant to start anything with anyone especially with a guy who not only has her ex’s name but also is in the military. Michael on the other hand can’t get Kacie out of his head and a second chance meeting leads to them to eventually becoming friends with benefits.
Kacie is in a position in her life where she is ready to take charge of her life instead of wasting it on a guy, she’s moving away for a fellowship for physical therapy at Duke and since Michael is in the military he isn’t going to around much longer either. They both didn’t count on one by one breaking the rules they had decided on and falling in love.
I really liked them both, individually and together. Michael was such a great guy, he really loved his brother and as shown in the book was willing to follow wherever to keep him safe but this did mess up with his life plans instead of being a doctor with family like he had planned, he was a bachelor and a military doctor.
Kacie was also lovely. She had to deal with jealousy over her younger sister’s upcoming marriage to a man she was deeply in love with while Kacie who has spent the last seven years as a girlfriend to a fighter pilot has to start all over again. Now she’s has her future planned, starting with doing something she really wants like the fellowship and it doesn’t include anymore military guys alas we can’t choose who we end up falling for.
I also liked their relationship, no matter that they wanted to just keep in physical, their caring for each other showed through and neither could the friendship that they had developed. The book has quite a good variety of banter, sweet and angsty moments between the couple to make it a good read. They were adorable together and I really wanted them to have their happily ever after.
Quibbles: Michael’s brother Danny,
Overall, while this was my first read from the author it definitely won’t be the last. I quite enjoyed it and I will definitely be checking out more from the author!
ARC was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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Kacie is in a position in her life where she is ready to take charge of her life instead of wasting it on a guy, she’s moving away for a fellowship for physical therapy at Duke and since Michael is in the military he isn’t going to around much longer either. They both didn’t count on one by one breaking the rules they had decided on and falling in love.
I really liked them both, individually and together. Michael was such a great guy, he really loved his brother and as shown in the book was willing to follow wherever to keep him safe but this did mess up with his life plans instead of being a doctor with family like he had planned, he was a bachelor and a military doctor.
Kacie was also lovely. She had to deal with jealousy over her younger sister’s upcoming marriage to a man she was deeply in love with while Kacie who has spent the last seven years as a girlfriend to a fighter pilot has to start all over again. Now she’s has her future planned, starting with doing something she really wants like the fellowship and it doesn’t include anymore military guys alas we can’t choose who we end up falling for.
I also liked their relationship, no matter that they wanted to just keep in physical, their caring for each other showed through and neither could the friendship that they had developed. The book has quite a good variety of banter, sweet and angsty moments between the couple to make it a good read. They were adorable together and I really wanted them to have their happily ever after.
Quibbles: Michael’s brother Danny,
Overall, while this was my first read from the author it definitely won’t be the last. I quite enjoyed it and I will definitely be checking out more from the author!
ARC was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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