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Elite Ops #1
Aces Wild
"If you like James Bond you're going to love this book. ...Suspense...scorching hot sex scenes. A must read."--Once Upon an Alpha on Blowback
In the heat of the Nevada desert, the most elite military pilots in the world are about to engage in some friendly competition. Only this year, someone is changing all the rules...
RAF pilot Dexter Stone has been through his fair share of sticky situations. After living through a crash in enemy territory where no one expected him to walk away, the Red Flag training exercises should be a piece of cake-assuming he can keep his mind on the mission and not on the smart mouth of his gorgeous American competition.
As one of the few women in a sky full of hotshot flyboys, Maj. Eleanor Daniels has worked day and night to earn a coveted spot at Red Flag. And she's not about to let some cocky British bad boy distract her from winning. But when the games take a deadly turn, he may be her only hope for survival.
In the heat of the Nevada desert, the most elite military pilots in the world are about to engage in some friendly competition. Only this year, someone is changing all the rules...
RAF pilot Dexter Stone has been through his fair share of sticky situations. After living through a crash in enemy territory where no one expected him to walk away, the Red Flag training exercises should be a piece of cake-assuming he can keep his mind on the mission and not on the smart mouth of his gorgeous American competition.
As one of the few women in a sky full of hotshot flyboys, Maj. Eleanor Daniels has worked day and night to earn a coveted spot at Red Flag. And she's not about to let some cocky British bad boy distract her from winning. But when the games take a deadly turn, he may be her only hope for survival.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2017
About the author
Emmy Curtis
25 books175 followersEmmy Curtis is a Romance author. An ex-pat Brit, she quells her homesickness with Cadbury Flakes and Fray Bentos pies. She's lived in London, Paris and New York, and has settled for the time being, in Tokyo. When not writing, Emmy loves to travel with her military husband and take long walks with their dogs. All things considered, her life is chock full of hoot, just a little bit of nanny. And if you get that reference...well, she already considers you kin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 24, 2017
DNF at 45%
This isn't a long book, and I probably could've finished it, but my enjoyment from the start was minimal and things kind of went out of control plot-wise. Neither character was interesting enough for me to root for them, and the transition from being chased down by "bad guys" to suddenly deciding the guy she has met once, and whose name she doesn't know, could be a contender to end her sex dryspell? Sorry, no.
This isn't a long book, and I probably could've finished it, but my enjoyment from the start was minimal and things kind of went out of control plot-wise. Neither character was interesting enough for me to root for them, and the transition from being chased down by "bad guys" to suddenly deciding the guy she has met once, and whose name she doesn't know, could be a contender to end her sex dryspell? Sorry, no.
May 2, 2017
2.5 Stars
Military romance? Military pilots? Throw in a sexy Brit and some cloak and dagger stuff? Well, sign me up! I was so excited to get my hands on this book, especially after enjoying the author's Alpha Ops series so much and I was expecting more of the same thrilling suspense and action.
Unfortunately, ACES WILD did not live up to my expectations for it. I enjoy a fast-paced story as well as the next person, and this story started out at breakneck and just stayed there for all of it, but here is my issue: it felt like I was missing sections of the story completely. Ms. Curtis has always been able to deliver on military details and she did here, but this only made the other areas stand out is stark contrast.
Both the romance and suspense went from zero to Mach speed rapidly but much of the development of both was missing. We barely got to know the characters before they went from barely tolerating each other to hot and heavy with nothing in between. A routine training exercise went to hell very fast with no build up and very scant details.
I completely get that the few clues strewn about in the book are supposed to lay a foundation for an overarching story-line spanning the entire series (maybe), but I would really have loved it if there was enough of this story to engage me and build up my enthusiasm for the rest of the series. At the moment, all I have is a headache from trying to connect the dots and disappointment because I really wanted to love this book so much.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
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Military romance? Military pilots? Throw in a sexy Brit and some cloak and dagger stuff? Well, sign me up! I was so excited to get my hands on this book, especially after enjoying the author's Alpha Ops series so much and I was expecting more of the same thrilling suspense and action.
Unfortunately, ACES WILD did not live up to my expectations for it. I enjoy a fast-paced story as well as the next person, and this story started out at breakneck and just stayed there for all of it, but here is my issue: it felt like I was missing sections of the story completely. Ms. Curtis has always been able to deliver on military details and she did here, but this only made the other areas stand out is stark contrast.
Both the romance and suspense went from zero to Mach speed rapidly but much of the development of both was missing. We barely got to know the characters before they went from barely tolerating each other to hot and heavy with nothing in between. A routine training exercise went to hell very fast with no build up and very scant details.
I completely get that the few clues strewn about in the book are supposed to lay a foundation for an overarching story-line spanning the entire series (maybe), but I would really have loved it if there was enough of this story to engage me and build up my enthusiasm for the rest of the series. At the moment, all I have is a headache from trying to connect the dots and disappointment because I really wanted to love this book so much.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
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May 7, 2017
3.5 SMOOCHES!!
I read and reviewed this book on behalf of RED CHEEKS READS.
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"...there were certain things about this book that I very much enjoyed...there was a lot of potential here..."
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I read and reviewed this book on behalf of RED CHEEKS READS.
REVIEW --> http://redcheeksreads.com/aces-wild-b...
"...there were certain things about this book that I very much enjoyed...there was a lot of potential here..."
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March 23, 2017
I enjoy a good military romance and this one definitely had the workings to be something great, but I found myself bored with it at times. Dex and Eleanor were great, it was the situation they were in. I needed to know who was behind what happened to them and why. They spent quality time in the Vegas desert because of a civilian contractor and some shady government types, so why didn't we need to know why it happened and exactly who was behind it?
The romance between these two moved very fast. One day they met and we jumped to proposals about perfect places to get married. I get when emotions run high that things could move fast, but I wanted a little more realism to their relationship.
The romance between these two moved very fast. One day they met and we jumped to proposals about perfect places to get married. I get when emotions run high that things could move fast, but I wanted a little more realism to their relationship.
May 23, 2017
Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? After a surviving a near fatal crash in enemy territory, RAF pilot Dexter Stone is more determined than ever to prove that he is still at the top of his game. As long as he can keep from getting distracted by Major Eleanor Daniels, a fellow Red Flag trainee, Dex should be able to accomplish his goals in no time. Eleanor on the other hand is trying to prove that just because she's a woman doesn't mean she doesn't deserve a spot at Red Flag but when she inadvertently becomes the target of killers, she and Dex will have to work together to survive and find answers.
Overall reaction to the story? Aces Wild isn't a bad way to start a new series but it DID have some issues that kept it from being rated a solid four. For starters, the pace was too fast. It seemed like things were happening super fast over a long period of time when in fact it had only been a few days. Also, for two characters like Dex and Eleanor who didn't have a past together, I expected a bit more development from them when it came to romance. I know the setting doesn't exactly lend itself to slow romance but I felt like there was something missing from it at the end. Another issue I had was with the suspense plot. It felt unfinished, and left me thinking I had missed something. The buildup was great and had me all in but the way that aspect of the book wrapped up fell short of my expectations. Even with my hangups about the book, I would still pick up the next book in the series.
Describe the hero in five words: Cocky. Stubborn. Fun. Loyal. Smart.
Did you like him? Yes.
Why? Dex is all about trying to prove he can still be the best after basically walking away from a death defying plane crash. I loved his determination to succeed but I also loved that he wasn't a jerk about it. He was willing to work hard to reach his goal but he wasn't one of those guys who would walk all over or worse, sabotage a fellow pilot's reputation to do it. He was confident but overall, a really good guy who was fighting some anxiety along the way and ended up meeting a woman he couldn't let go of. Speaking of which, Dex was never intimidated by Eleanor or women in the military in general, a trait which should never be overlooked in a male character. I loved how he could be an easy going, teasing charmer to a highly trained RAF pilot in the blink of an eye.
Describe the heroine in five words: Determined. Intelligent. Loyal. Stubborn. Confident.
Did you like her? Yes
Why? Eleanor is the type of heroine who really stands out in book like Aces Wild because she's determined to succeed on her own merit in a male dominated workplace. Her father is a high ranking officer who hasn't paid all that much attention to her and has certainly never helped her get ahead but that doesn't stop people from thinking he has. I loved that she could back up her tough girl talk with actions, she wasn't just mouthing off about proving herself, she actually did it. For the most part she was confident about her ability to do the job she was trained to do but she also recognized when she needed help. She was a definite leader but at the same time she knew when someone else was better suited to lead in a difficult situation. Love those traits in a female character.
Let’s talk about the romance: Okay so the attraction between Dex and Eleanor was spot on and always there, even when the focus was on work it was hanging around in the background waiting for the right moment to really dig in.These two worked so well together and their personalities complimented each other BUT I do think the romance needed more development instead of seeming like it happened off page or worse, too fast. I get that the book is a romantic suspense but a balance between the two is possible, especially with two characters like Dex and Eleanor who play off each other so nicely when they were bantering and teasing each other.
Click It or Skip It? Click It. Even with the issues I had, Aces Wild is still worth reading and generates a lot of interest in the rest of the series.
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? After a surviving a near fatal crash in enemy territory, RAF pilot Dexter Stone is more determined than ever to prove that he is still at the top of his game. As long as he can keep from getting distracted by Major Eleanor Daniels, a fellow Red Flag trainee, Dex should be able to accomplish his goals in no time. Eleanor on the other hand is trying to prove that just because she's a woman doesn't mean she doesn't deserve a spot at Red Flag but when she inadvertently becomes the target of killers, she and Dex will have to work together to survive and find answers.
Overall reaction to the story? Aces Wild isn't a bad way to start a new series but it DID have some issues that kept it from being rated a solid four. For starters, the pace was too fast. It seemed like things were happening super fast over a long period of time when in fact it had only been a few days. Also, for two characters like Dex and Eleanor who didn't have a past together, I expected a bit more development from them when it came to romance. I know the setting doesn't exactly lend itself to slow romance but I felt like there was something missing from it at the end. Another issue I had was with the suspense plot. It felt unfinished, and left me thinking I had missed something. The buildup was great and had me all in but the way that aspect of the book wrapped up fell short of my expectations. Even with my hangups about the book, I would still pick up the next book in the series.
Describe the hero in five words: Cocky. Stubborn. Fun. Loyal. Smart.
Did you like him? Yes.
Why? Dex is all about trying to prove he can still be the best after basically walking away from a death defying plane crash. I loved his determination to succeed but I also loved that he wasn't a jerk about it. He was willing to work hard to reach his goal but he wasn't one of those guys who would walk all over or worse, sabotage a fellow pilot's reputation to do it. He was confident but overall, a really good guy who was fighting some anxiety along the way and ended up meeting a woman he couldn't let go of. Speaking of which, Dex was never intimidated by Eleanor or women in the military in general, a trait which should never be overlooked in a male character. I loved how he could be an easy going, teasing charmer to a highly trained RAF pilot in the blink of an eye.
Describe the heroine in five words: Determined. Intelligent. Loyal. Stubborn. Confident.
Did you like her? Yes
Why? Eleanor is the type of heroine who really stands out in book like Aces Wild because she's determined to succeed on her own merit in a male dominated workplace. Her father is a high ranking officer who hasn't paid all that much attention to her and has certainly never helped her get ahead but that doesn't stop people from thinking he has. I loved that she could back up her tough girl talk with actions, she wasn't just mouthing off about proving herself, she actually did it. For the most part she was confident about her ability to do the job she was trained to do but she also recognized when she needed help. She was a definite leader but at the same time she knew when someone else was better suited to lead in a difficult situation. Love those traits in a female character.
Let’s talk about the romance: Okay so the attraction between Dex and Eleanor was spot on and always there, even when the focus was on work it was hanging around in the background waiting for the right moment to really dig in.These two worked so well together and their personalities complimented each other BUT I do think the romance needed more development instead of seeming like it happened off page or worse, too fast. I get that the book is a romantic suspense but a balance between the two is possible, especially with two characters like Dex and Eleanor who play off each other so nicely when they were bantering and teasing each other.
Click It or Skip It? Click It. Even with the issues I had, Aces Wild is still worth reading and generates a lot of interest in the rest of the series.
June 3, 2017
On paper, this is the kind of book I like the best. A smart, courage woman making it in the tough world of fighter pilot meets hot shot rival pilot for a second chance romance. I'm in. For the most part, there story has solid bones. What I really like is the parity between Eleanor and Dex. Eleanor holds her own against the Maverick-like character. The author does a great job of balancing the two. Also, big props for bringing in The Animal - the star pilot of the South Korean Air Force. Too bad, there isn't more of him in the book. He would be an interesting character to explore. The problem I have with this story is the 1. it can't decide whether it is a contemporary romance or romantic suspense and 2. if it is a romantic suspense, then that part of the story needs to get started sooner and it needs a little more development. The bad guys are too easy and stereotypical in the romantic suspense world. I'd be satisfied if this were a straight contemporary romance.
May 31, 2017
Rating ~ 4.25 stars
Flight Lieutenant Dexter ‘Dex’ Stone is a British pilot with something to prove after crashing his plane on his last mission and what better way to then beating the aggressor squadron at the Red Flags. Dex wants to prove it to himself crash wasn’t the end of his career.
Major Eleanor Daniels is at Red Flag to prove it to Air Force community that she is more than a general’s daughter, (especially one who doesn’t care for her to begin with) and she got her position on her own merit and not because of who her father is. Eleanor just didn’t count on this Red Flag changing the course of what she thought about her family.
Eleanor ends up hearing something about the Red Flag and TechGen-One that she shouldn’t have and now finds herself facing danger from all ends. Eleanor doesn’t know if she can trust anyone but maybe the annoying Brit can be trusted, especially now that TechGen-One is after both of them. I enjoyed the suspense plot, I think Emmy Curtis did a good job at building up suspense and the mystery factor. I do wish however we could have gotten a bit more about what TechGen-One’s goal was.
I loveeddd Dex and Eleanor, honestly from the get go they had this connection (and chemistry) even with Dexter being an arse and ending up with his foot in the mouth at their first meeting. I loved their banter! Their relationship was just easy, in the sense that they just understood each other, they got each others sense of humour and maybe the circumstance helped but that made easier for them to open to each other. They had this playful aspect to their relationship that I adored, it made me smile.
Quibbles: I wish the book had been a bit longer because I wasn’t ready to see goodbye to Dex and Eleanor, I wanted a bit more of background on. Dex and Eleanor. I also would have liked a bit more about how TechGen-One was dealt with since it wasn’t in this book, that might be the continuity aspect of the series ?? I don’t know because it felt incomplete.
This was first read by Emma Curtis but certainly won’t be the last. I really enjoyed the writing, the plot, the characters and can’t wait to read more books from her. While I enjoyed the plot, Dex and Eleanor were easily the best part of this book.
Wild Aces is a great start to a new series, with some danger, suspense and action along with a fab couple thrown in to make it a great light romantic suspense read!
ARC was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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Flight Lieutenant Dexter ‘Dex’ Stone is a British pilot with something to prove after crashing his plane on his last mission and what better way to then beating the aggressor squadron at the Red Flags. Dex wants to prove it to himself crash wasn’t the end of his career.
Major Eleanor Daniels is at Red Flag to prove it to Air Force community that she is more than a general’s daughter, (especially one who doesn’t care for her to begin with) and she got her position on her own merit and not because of who her father is. Eleanor just didn’t count on this Red Flag changing the course of what she thought about her family.
Eleanor ends up hearing something about the Red Flag and TechGen-One that she shouldn’t have and now finds herself facing danger from all ends. Eleanor doesn’t know if she can trust anyone but maybe the annoying Brit can be trusted, especially now that TechGen-One is after both of them. I enjoyed the suspense plot, I think Emmy Curtis did a good job at building up suspense and the mystery factor. I do wish however we could have gotten a bit more about what TechGen-One’s goal was.
I loveeddd Dex and Eleanor, honestly from the get go they had this connection (and chemistry) even with Dexter being an arse and ending up with his foot in the mouth at their first meeting. I loved their banter! Their relationship was just easy, in the sense that they just understood each other, they got each others sense of humour and maybe the circumstance helped but that made easier for them to open to each other. They had this playful aspect to their relationship that I adored, it made me smile.
Quibbles: I wish the book had been a bit longer because I wasn’t ready to see goodbye to Dex and Eleanor, I wanted a bit more of background on. Dex and Eleanor. I also would have liked a bit more about how TechGen-One was dealt with since it wasn’t in this book, that might be the continuity aspect of the series ?? I don’t know because it felt incomplete.
This was first read by Emma Curtis but certainly won’t be the last. I really enjoyed the writing, the plot, the characters and can’t wait to read more books from her. While I enjoyed the plot, Dex and Eleanor were easily the best part of this book.
Wild Aces is a great start to a new series, with some danger, suspense and action along with a fab couple thrown in to make it a great light romantic suspense read!
ARC was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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April 23, 2017
3.5 SMOOCHES
This is my first time reading Emmy Curtis, and while I do occasionally enjoy a military romantic suspense story, it’s not my top favorite genre of romance. But it’s been a while since I’ve read one, and honestly, I was looking forward to the change in pace. I went into Aces Wild anticipating a high-flying, thrilling story full of intrigue and hair-raising action fueling a sexy romance. There definitely was some of all that going on here, but it didn’t quite deliver the punch of excitement that I had been hoping to experience.
I don’t mind a fast-paced story, but Aces Wild took off at Mach speed and cruised there the whole time. The story – both the suspense plot and the romance – happen over the span of a few days. I get that high drama situations heighten emotions, but the hero and heroine did a quick fly-by over all of the relationship building moments that make the romance believable for the reader. I really liked this couple, they had fantastic chemistry and their snappy banter was quick and witty. I just wanted to see them hover at the good stuff for a bit longer before they raced off toward the horizon together.
The suspense portion of the plot had so much potential. The premise was very interesting and I was invested in it, but like the romance, it happened at warp speed glossing over important information. Unfortunately, when a story moves this quickly, key elements in the development are often overlooked or left out simply because there isn’t time to elaborate. There were holes in the plot that didn’t get filled, and there were no real explanations offered as motives. There didn’t seem to be any real vindication either, it just seemed like no one was really held accountable for anything. When all was said and done, I was left wondering why, and it was a disappointing conclusion to what was interesting plot.
I really struggled to rate this book. While there were certain things about this book that I very much enjoyed, but there were critical pieces that either fell flat or left me wanting more elaboration. It was frustrating because there was a lot of potential here for a really great story with a sweeping romance. But ultimately, it was just too rushed, and it didn’t really come together fully for me.
~ Danielle Palumbo
This is my first time reading Emmy Curtis, and while I do occasionally enjoy a military romantic suspense story, it’s not my top favorite genre of romance. But it’s been a while since I’ve read one, and honestly, I was looking forward to the change in pace. I went into Aces Wild anticipating a high-flying, thrilling story full of intrigue and hair-raising action fueling a sexy romance. There definitely was some of all that going on here, but it didn’t quite deliver the punch of excitement that I had been hoping to experience.
I don’t mind a fast-paced story, but Aces Wild took off at Mach speed and cruised there the whole time. The story – both the suspense plot and the romance – happen over the span of a few days. I get that high drama situations heighten emotions, but the hero and heroine did a quick fly-by over all of the relationship building moments that make the romance believable for the reader. I really liked this couple, they had fantastic chemistry and their snappy banter was quick and witty. I just wanted to see them hover at the good stuff for a bit longer before they raced off toward the horizon together.
The suspense portion of the plot had so much potential. The premise was very interesting and I was invested in it, but like the romance, it happened at warp speed glossing over important information. Unfortunately, when a story moves this quickly, key elements in the development are often overlooked or left out simply because there isn’t time to elaborate. There were holes in the plot that didn’t get filled, and there were no real explanations offered as motives. There didn’t seem to be any real vindication either, it just seemed like no one was really held accountable for anything. When all was said and done, I was left wondering why, and it was a disappointing conclusion to what was interesting plot.
I really struggled to rate this book. While there were certain things about this book that I very much enjoyed, but there were critical pieces that either fell flat or left me wanting more elaboration. It was frustrating because there was a lot of potential here for a really great story with a sweeping romance. But ultimately, it was just too rushed, and it didn’t really come together fully for me.
~ Danielle Palumbo
April 25, 2017
This is my first book by Emmy Curtis and I liked the fantastic ride Aces Wild takes us on! This story is very fast-paced and stayed ramped up for most of the book!
Major Eleanor Daniels has worked hard for her position in Red Flag and is not going to let any hot shot pilots get in the way of promotions she has rightfully achieved. The best of the best are here for a training mission where she meets Flight Lieutenant Dex Stone and she is smitten! Hot, sexy, a Brit-he has the total package going on! Their chemistry is off the charts and I liked how they had a witty, joking banter. Unfortunately we sailed over most of the relationship building in this one though. They literally jumped from one thing to the next so quickly it made my head spin! Both are smart, so I think it was a bit of a stretch to have them both jump so carelessly without a thought to their careers above all else.
I did like both hero and heroine and the plot how it unfolded. I jumped right in and found it to be very interesting and very believable in today's tech world. I found myself asking a lot of questions that were either not answered or glossed right over. I think that if some of those questions were expanded and answered it would have been a much more rounded storyline. The other thing that really got me is the ending. For everything that happened, there was virtually no accountability for the "bad guys" actions-especially where Eleanor's father was involved. Everything was just swept under the rug and everybody was told to zip their lips. Now I believe these things do happen, but I wanted some closure.
Because of the break neck speed this story was told, I had a hard time rating it. I did like it, but it left me with a lot unanswered. I guess I was expecting a sexy romance with a lot of drama and hair-raising excitement, and definitely some relationship/trust building, but we didn't get all that. This had the potential to be over the top, but I think because it felt rushed, too many details were missing, and the conclusion was a let down.
So would I recommend it? Yes, I would! I liked Dex and Eleanor. Maybe as this series progresses, we will get some of the unanswered questions resolved!
3.5 Stars/3 Flames
This book was gifted to me for an honest review. The review and ratings are solely my opinions.
Major Eleanor Daniels has worked hard for her position in Red Flag and is not going to let any hot shot pilots get in the way of promotions she has rightfully achieved. The best of the best are here for a training mission where she meets Flight Lieutenant Dex Stone and she is smitten! Hot, sexy, a Brit-he has the total package going on! Their chemistry is off the charts and I liked how they had a witty, joking banter. Unfortunately we sailed over most of the relationship building in this one though. They literally jumped from one thing to the next so quickly it made my head spin! Both are smart, so I think it was a bit of a stretch to have them both jump so carelessly without a thought to their careers above all else.
I did like both hero and heroine and the plot how it unfolded. I jumped right in and found it to be very interesting and very believable in today's tech world. I found myself asking a lot of questions that were either not answered or glossed right over. I think that if some of those questions were expanded and answered it would have been a much more rounded storyline. The other thing that really got me is the ending. For everything that happened, there was virtually no accountability for the "bad guys" actions-especially where Eleanor's father was involved. Everything was just swept under the rug and everybody was told to zip their lips. Now I believe these things do happen, but I wanted some closure.
Because of the break neck speed this story was told, I had a hard time rating it. I did like it, but it left me with a lot unanswered. I guess I was expecting a sexy romance with a lot of drama and hair-raising excitement, and definitely some relationship/trust building, but we didn't get all that. This had the potential to be over the top, but I think because it felt rushed, too many details were missing, and the conclusion was a let down.
So would I recommend it? Yes, I would! I liked Dex and Eleanor. Maybe as this series progresses, we will get some of the unanswered questions resolved!
3.5 Stars/3 Flames
This book was gifted to me for an honest review. The review and ratings are solely my opinions.
April 30, 2017
Aces Wild was a wild, fast-paced adrenaline ride with an original plot that had lots of action, realistic military life, wit and banter, and romance that had me sighing and smiling with the lighting strike speed they jumped into the opportunity and possibility of something special.
It came clear through the story that the author truly knows the military life inside out. It was easy to enjoy that aspect of the story, as it was so real, fresh, and authentic, flowing of the pages so seamlessly. I loved the connection, the alliance, and the teamwork the pilots had in between them across the nationalaties.
Dexter Stone was charming, fun, sexy, and tough. He won me over immediately with his vulnerability and braveness, his kindness and protectiveness. He wasn't perfect, yet there was much to admire and swoon over.
Eleanor Daniels was prickly and defensive of her place in the military because of the constant shadow her father laid over her career and success. She had sass, attitude and even arrogance at times. She was looking for a release, fun time and end of the dry spell, and Dexter allured her mind and body. The attraction between them was palpable, the connection they had was real, and they seemed to understand each other in a unique way, the pressures and stress of their jobs at hand and careers in general. The fun word games and outrageous, humorous declarations of emotions and marriage proposals turn into a bit more meaningful conversation when the danger they are in turns deadly.
I loved these two together, the adoration and attraction between them was so natural, passionate, yet sweet and caring as well. They charmed me completely, and I love how the lighting strike attraction they had was given time to deepen through the story. It is a romance novel, so I don't think to say that the ending was just perfect for them is giving any spoilers out.
The suspense got really toe-curling intense towards the climax. I wish that side of the story would have been little more in-depth, what, who, why, and how where questions still in my mind after the end. It wasn't a cliffhanger ending, but very open ended with the criminal side of the tale. There are more books to come in the series, and I really hope more light will be shined into the events at the Red Flag training or the following investigation and why it was swept under the rug. What really happen behind the closed doors, and where were all the clues given leading into?! Yes, the story got me hooked and I'm looking forward to finding out what will happen in the books to come.
~ Four Spoons
It came clear through the story that the author truly knows the military life inside out. It was easy to enjoy that aspect of the story, as it was so real, fresh, and authentic, flowing of the pages so seamlessly. I loved the connection, the alliance, and the teamwork the pilots had in between them across the nationalaties.
Dexter Stone was charming, fun, sexy, and tough. He won me over immediately with his vulnerability and braveness, his kindness and protectiveness. He wasn't perfect, yet there was much to admire and swoon over.
Eleanor Daniels was prickly and defensive of her place in the military because of the constant shadow her father laid over her career and success. She had sass, attitude and even arrogance at times. She was looking for a release, fun time and end of the dry spell, and Dexter allured her mind and body. The attraction between them was palpable, the connection they had was real, and they seemed to understand each other in a unique way, the pressures and stress of their jobs at hand and careers in general. The fun word games and outrageous, humorous declarations of emotions and marriage proposals turn into a bit more meaningful conversation when the danger they are in turns deadly.
I loved these two together, the adoration and attraction between them was so natural, passionate, yet sweet and caring as well. They charmed me completely, and I love how the lighting strike attraction they had was given time to deepen through the story. It is a romance novel, so I don't think to say that the ending was just perfect for them is giving any spoilers out.
The suspense got really toe-curling intense towards the climax. I wish that side of the story would have been little more in-depth, what, who, why, and how where questions still in my mind after the end. It wasn't a cliffhanger ending, but very open ended with the criminal side of the tale. There are more books to come in the series, and I really hope more light will be shined into the events at the Red Flag training or the following investigation and why it was swept under the rug. What really happen behind the closed doors, and where were all the clues given leading into?! Yes, the story got me hooked and I'm looking forward to finding out what will happen in the books to come.
~ Four Spoons
June 1, 2018
Aces Wild was a checklist for a good RS read, but fell shy in execution. The romance was lukewarm and the villain’s motive wasn’t clearly defined. However, I’ll say having read the series out of order, things do get better.
April 25, 2017
I'm DNF'ing at 41%. The book is going at warp speed with no detail or depth. It's just jumping from scene to scene. I need more character development and detail to establish a connection.
October 22, 2017
Emmy Curtis' Aces Wild is a high-flying adventure brimming with scorching romance and thrilling action that I easily became lost in!
After puttering out half way through this authors debut series, Alpha Ops, I was a little skeptical going into Aces Wild. However, this author's writing has very obviously evolved within the last year or two, because I could hardly tell that it was the same writer! Aces Wild was fast moving, intriguing, and the romance was red hot. The protagonists of the book were interesting, quick witted, and fun. Dexter and Eleanor had wonderful backstories that helped shape their characters and gave them that extra dimension. They also had great chemistry and the secondary characters, which will be spotlighted in following books, were compelling. I look forward to reading more about them.
I still have some big questions about the bad guys, as there were substantial loose ends left open by the end of the book. Hopefully that aspect is still an evolving story in this series and answers will come with more installments! Over all, Aces Wild was a titillating military romance that I enjoyed! I definitely recommend this title to romantic suspense and military romance fans.
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After puttering out half way through this authors debut series, Alpha Ops, I was a little skeptical going into Aces Wild. However, this author's writing has very obviously evolved within the last year or two, because I could hardly tell that it was the same writer! Aces Wild was fast moving, intriguing, and the romance was red hot. The protagonists of the book were interesting, quick witted, and fun. Dexter and Eleanor had wonderful backstories that helped shape their characters and gave them that extra dimension. They also had great chemistry and the secondary characters, which will be spotlighted in following books, were compelling. I look forward to reading more about them.
I still have some big questions about the bad guys, as there were substantial loose ends left open by the end of the book. Hopefully that aspect is still an evolving story in this series and answers will come with more installments! Over all, Aces Wild was a titillating military romance that I enjoyed! I definitely recommend this title to romantic suspense and military romance fans.
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November 4, 2017
Emmy Curtis - Aces Wild - (Elite Ops Series – Book 1)
We find the H and h are both top notch pilots and are engaged in the famous RED FLAG competition. It is an honor to be one that is nominated to attend this event and the h is determined that she will win the competition against all her male counterparts.
We find Dexter Stone, a Brit, and a RAF pilot who is recovering from a near fatal crash in enemy territory must prove that he is still the best of the best. Dexter Stone will not allow his attraction to a certain female pilot distract him from his objective.
Maj. Eleanor Daniels has worked hard to earn a coveted spot on the Red Flag. Eleanor will stay focused on the goal because it is too important to her, after all she is one of a few females who is out there with the hotshot ‘flyboys’. She refused to allow Dexter Stone to distract her from her purpose. It is too important to her.
Dexter and Eleanor immediately feel the attraction between them immediately but neither will allow this feeling to go farther than looking. As the aerial combat training and dogfights begin, there is a conspiracy by someone that is determined that some competitors will not live.
As Dexter and Eleanor are targeted and both must eject from their aircrafts and it becomes essential to survive while in the desert with no water or food. As they fight for their lives while the ‘enemy’ come after them, they realize that their attraction is too great to ignore. As the mystery unfolds to who has sabotaged the event, they just need to live long enough to get back to the commander and turn him in. Will they make it or were they fated from the start.
I enjoy love Military Romance stories and have read most of Ms. Curtis’ books. I like fast paced books, but, I would have liked to seen more “build” up of the relationship between Dexter and Eleanor. Having said that, the book does keep you turning each page to find out who is the saboteur. I would have given the book a sold 4 – 4 ½ if the relationship would have unfolded more realistic.
We find the H and h are both top notch pilots and are engaged in the famous RED FLAG competition. It is an honor to be one that is nominated to attend this event and the h is determined that she will win the competition against all her male counterparts.
We find Dexter Stone, a Brit, and a RAF pilot who is recovering from a near fatal crash in enemy territory must prove that he is still the best of the best. Dexter Stone will not allow his attraction to a certain female pilot distract him from his objective.
Maj. Eleanor Daniels has worked hard to earn a coveted spot on the Red Flag. Eleanor will stay focused on the goal because it is too important to her, after all she is one of a few females who is out there with the hotshot ‘flyboys’. She refused to allow Dexter Stone to distract her from her purpose. It is too important to her.
Dexter and Eleanor immediately feel the attraction between them immediately but neither will allow this feeling to go farther than looking. As the aerial combat training and dogfights begin, there is a conspiracy by someone that is determined that some competitors will not live.
As Dexter and Eleanor are targeted and both must eject from their aircrafts and it becomes essential to survive while in the desert with no water or food. As they fight for their lives while the ‘enemy’ come after them, they realize that their attraction is too great to ignore. As the mystery unfolds to who has sabotaged the event, they just need to live long enough to get back to the commander and turn him in. Will they make it or were they fated from the start.
I enjoy love Military Romance stories and have read most of Ms. Curtis’ books. I like fast paced books, but, I would have liked to seen more “build” up of the relationship between Dexter and Eleanor. Having said that, the book does keep you turning each page to find out who is the saboteur. I would have given the book a sold 4 – 4 ½ if the relationship would have unfolded more realistic.
May 4, 2017
Holy smokes what a great beginning of a new series!! The books that follow this one have some big shoes to fill!!
Dexter Stone "Ironman" is a Royal Air Force pilot. This is his first time flying in the desert since his crash in Iraq, plus this is Red Flag training that's important to his reputation. He was waiting to board a bus that takes the pilots and crew from the hanger to the auditorium where training info was. He takes the last seat available next to a woman in uniform. She's American, he's British. His first encounter with this woman is hilarious! And of course, him being a man, he has to brag that he's a pilot. He has no idea what he's just done and what an idiot he just made of himself!!
Major Eleanor Daniels "Bees Knees" is part of the Aggressor Squadron at Red Flag, yet none of the pilots know she's part of that squadron. Oh yea, she also happens to be the daughter of a General. She's intrigued by "Ironman" and once she gets over his ego, she sees there's chemistry between them. But, what happens when her and him are in for the most dangerous mission they've ever been on? Things are never as you expect them to be and when you kick into survival mode, it's amazing what the human body can do to survive!
This story was such a quick read for me, because it was so good!! It was action packed! It was also, sexy and the bantering between Dex and Eleanor was so refreshing as they went through tragedy! I did feel like there was some parts to the story that should have been there, but I was left scratching my head thinking, "did I miss something". Hopefully the author will answer my questions in the next book in this series!
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
Dexter Stone "Ironman" is a Royal Air Force pilot. This is his first time flying in the desert since his crash in Iraq, plus this is Red Flag training that's important to his reputation. He was waiting to board a bus that takes the pilots and crew from the hanger to the auditorium where training info was. He takes the last seat available next to a woman in uniform. She's American, he's British. His first encounter with this woman is hilarious! And of course, him being a man, he has to brag that he's a pilot. He has no idea what he's just done and what an idiot he just made of himself!!
Major Eleanor Daniels "Bees Knees" is part of the Aggressor Squadron at Red Flag, yet none of the pilots know she's part of that squadron. Oh yea, she also happens to be the daughter of a General. She's intrigued by "Ironman" and once she gets over his ego, she sees there's chemistry between them. But, what happens when her and him are in for the most dangerous mission they've ever been on? Things are never as you expect them to be and when you kick into survival mode, it's amazing what the human body can do to survive!
This story was such a quick read for me, because it was so good!! It was action packed! It was also, sexy and the bantering between Dex and Eleanor was so refreshing as they went through tragedy! I did feel like there was some parts to the story that should have been there, but I was left scratching my head thinking, "did I miss something". Hopefully the author will answer my questions in the next book in this series!
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
May 12, 2017
DNF
Yeah, no. I’d previously enjoyed the first two books in Emmy Curtis’ Alpha Ops military romance series, the gave up on that series after barely getting through the third and DNFing the fourth. I was hoping that Ms. Curtis’ new Elite Ops series would bring me back into the fold… but it was not meant to be: a third of ACES WILD was enough for me to officially give up on all things Emmy Curtis. Forever.
ACES WILD is, essentially, what would be called a ‘PWP’ (plot, what plot?) in fanfiction parlance--and not a particularly enjoyable one. The premise could’ve been promising but was executed so poorly there was barely a plot, the characters (both hero and heroine) were vapid facsimiles of actual military personnel (or actual humans, for that matter), and the ‘romance’/relationship had zero emotional depth (or any depth, really). Nothing really made sense, and the supposed witty repartee between hero and heroine became irritating very quickly.
So maybe ACES WILD and the entirety of Ms. Curtis’ surprisingly extensive body of work is for you, but it’s most definitely not for me.
**ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Yeah, no. I’d previously enjoyed the first two books in Emmy Curtis’ Alpha Ops military romance series, the gave up on that series after barely getting through the third and DNFing the fourth. I was hoping that Ms. Curtis’ new Elite Ops series would bring me back into the fold… but it was not meant to be: a third of ACES WILD was enough for me to officially give up on all things Emmy Curtis. Forever.
ACES WILD is, essentially, what would be called a ‘PWP’ (plot, what plot?) in fanfiction parlance--and not a particularly enjoyable one. The premise could’ve been promising but was executed so poorly there was barely a plot, the characters (both hero and heroine) were vapid facsimiles of actual military personnel (or actual humans, for that matter), and the ‘romance’/relationship had zero emotional depth (or any depth, really). Nothing really made sense, and the supposed witty repartee between hero and heroine became irritating very quickly.
So maybe ACES WILD and the entirety of Ms. Curtis’ surprisingly extensive body of work is for you, but it’s most definitely not for me.
**ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2017
First off I absolutely loved Eleanor. She is a bada$$ woman and she knows how to navigate the world with confidence. This book took a little bit to capture me. At the beginning I just thought Dexter was a huge arrogant jerk. But the more I read and got to know him the more I understood him. The suspense of the book was fantastic and the romance was sparking hot. The descriptive details made my mental picture of the scenes vivid and when it came to the action and fighting I loved every minute of it. Dexter and Eleanor's hard beginning developed into a great relationship. This story will keep a reader in suspense, I definitely recommend it.
November 3, 2017
aces wild kicks off the elite ops series in thrilling style. the world's most elite military pilots are all in the nevada desert for a friendly, competition-style training mission. raf pilot dexter stone is just getting back into the swing of things after a horrific crash. he has to prove he is ready to fly into danger if he's going to reclaim his former role on his squad.
when he meets a mysterious and sexy stranger on the bus to the military base the red flag exercises are run out of, he realizes he may need to work on his game because he manages to be cocky and awkward and unintentionally amusing, which is kind of the opposite of what he was going for.
maj. eleanor daniels has plenty to prove at red flag, she's sick of living in her father's shadow and having to work twice as hard as her male peers. she knows that she has the skills to act as squad leader if given the chance. so the last thing she is looking for is a romantic connection, even with a sexy british pilot. they're on opposite sides for this training exercise and she doesn't need a cocky pilot distracting her.
but things get complicated quickly. for the first time, the private sector is involved in the training exercise and shady dealings seem to be happening on every corner. when eleanor overhears something she shouldn't have in her father's office she's suddenly targeted by goons that appear to be out to kill her.
while on a mission, her plane and dex's are sabotaged, and they are left out in the desert without water or supplies and must use all their training in order to keep going. even as dexter and eleanor's story comes to a close, there is so much going on at the base that you know there is more romance and suspense ahead in this series. i really enjoyed the chemistry between the leads and the mystery of what is happening on the base totally worked for me.
**aces wild published on april 30, 2017. i received a digital copy courtesy of netgalley/grand central publishing (forever yours) in exchange for my honest review.
when he meets a mysterious and sexy stranger on the bus to the military base the red flag exercises are run out of, he realizes he may need to work on his game because he manages to be cocky and awkward and unintentionally amusing, which is kind of the opposite of what he was going for.
maj. eleanor daniels has plenty to prove at red flag, she's sick of living in her father's shadow and having to work twice as hard as her male peers. she knows that she has the skills to act as squad leader if given the chance. so the last thing she is looking for is a romantic connection, even with a sexy british pilot. they're on opposite sides for this training exercise and she doesn't need a cocky pilot distracting her.
but things get complicated quickly. for the first time, the private sector is involved in the training exercise and shady dealings seem to be happening on every corner. when eleanor overhears something she shouldn't have in her father's office she's suddenly targeted by goons that appear to be out to kill her.
while on a mission, her plane and dex's are sabotaged, and they are left out in the desert without water or supplies and must use all their training in order to keep going. even as dexter and eleanor's story comes to a close, there is so much going on at the base that you know there is more romance and suspense ahead in this series. i really enjoyed the chemistry between the leads and the mystery of what is happening on the base totally worked for me.
**aces wild published on april 30, 2017. i received a digital copy courtesy of netgalley/grand central publishing (forever yours) in exchange for my honest review.
May 12, 2017
Woof! A high-intensity read, sweetened with a just enough romance to keep the pages turning. I enjoyed every moment the two protagonists spent sparring with each other, both verbally and in the cockpit of their respective fighter jets. If you're into military romance with a strong female lead and lots of humor, this it the book for you!
May 7, 2017
So much potential! I love military romances. This one had just a little bit too much intrigue with no reason or conclusion, and it made Eleanor and Dex's "on the run" adventure seem a little far-fetched. it was still a fun read.
March 18, 2017
netgalley
Great chemistry. Loved this book. a re read
Great chemistry. Loved this book. a re read
September 2, 2023
Fast paced. I liked Eleanor and Dex; witty banter; excellent writing. It's an easy read. The mystery get solved in Ops #2.
April 9, 2017
Major Eleanor Daniels is one of the best pilots in the military, but she's also a bit of a wild card when it comes to proving herself. However, when she hears something she shouldn't, she finds herself needing to tell someone before things get too dangerous for her. Except she doesn't know who she can trust apart from the only man that has managed to break down her walls and not give up on her. Will Dexter 'Dex' Stone be able to keep her safe while uncovering the truth of why someone is after her, so they can have a chance at happy ever after?
This is the second book by Ms. Curtis that I've read and I enjoyed it just as much as I did that first book. The way this story started with the flirting between the hero and heroine grabbed at my attention immediately, as the heroine isn't afraid to be sarcastic with her replies to the things the hero says. Yet, it was from the moment when the suspense and action was introduced into the story where things really became exciting and had me flipping the pages quickly, determined to discover what would happen to the hero and heroine. What lengths would the bad guys go to in making sure their plans weren't exposed? Would Dex be able to protect Eleanor?
The dialogue had me on the edge-of-my-seat due to the suspense, especially in the latter half of the book with what happens to the hero and heroine. Would they be able to stay ahead of the bad guys? Will Eleanor tell Dex everything she knows about who may be out to get her and why? However, there was also some really good playful banter between the hero and heroine that I absolutely loved, especially when their conversations kept coming back to anything to do with marriage.
The heroine was strong, brave and has worked hard to get to where she is in her career, and I could understand why she distances herself from her father and tries to prove herself. She doesn't want special treatment and prefers to achieve things on her own, especially since she has jerks like those she flies with treating her horribly the way one of them does. Can she earn the respect of others and prove them wrong? Certainly, all that she does should earn their respect, even though she can be a tad reckless while flying. However, what I liked most about the heroine was her determination to help the hero when it came to going up against the bad guys, because it was palpable that the bad guys would be gunning for them after what happens to Eleanor and Dex.
While the hero, he's been through so much with what happened to him during a mission and I liked how much respect his fellow pilots have for him. It goes to show how well he's done in his career and that he can bounce back from such an experience as the one he had. Moreover, he has some tough decisions to make when it comes to the heroine. Does he help her with one of their fellow pilots who is determined to cause trouble for her? Does he help her with the trouble she's found herself in? But what I liked most of all is how protective the hero is of Eleanor once he learns everything she knows about what's going on.
Overall, this was a really good book Ms. Curtis has penned, which starts this series off fabulously and has me looking forward to more of this series. The way this story ended had me smiling because of what Dex did to make sure he was able to stay at Eleanor's side. No way was anyone going to keep him away, especially with the little white lie he told. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as we find out whether the hero and heroine returned to their career as pilots. I would recommend Aces Wild by Emmy Curtis, if you enjoy romantic suspense, the sexy protector trope or books by authors Kaylea Cross, Lynn Raye Harris or Christy Reece.
This is the second book by Ms. Curtis that I've read and I enjoyed it just as much as I did that first book. The way this story started with the flirting between the hero and heroine grabbed at my attention immediately, as the heroine isn't afraid to be sarcastic with her replies to the things the hero says. Yet, it was from the moment when the suspense and action was introduced into the story where things really became exciting and had me flipping the pages quickly, determined to discover what would happen to the hero and heroine. What lengths would the bad guys go to in making sure their plans weren't exposed? Would Dex be able to protect Eleanor?
The dialogue had me on the edge-of-my-seat due to the suspense, especially in the latter half of the book with what happens to the hero and heroine. Would they be able to stay ahead of the bad guys? Will Eleanor tell Dex everything she knows about who may be out to get her and why? However, there was also some really good playful banter between the hero and heroine that I absolutely loved, especially when their conversations kept coming back to anything to do with marriage.
The heroine was strong, brave and has worked hard to get to where she is in her career, and I could understand why she distances herself from her father and tries to prove herself. She doesn't want special treatment and prefers to achieve things on her own, especially since she has jerks like those she flies with treating her horribly the way one of them does. Can she earn the respect of others and prove them wrong? Certainly, all that she does should earn their respect, even though she can be a tad reckless while flying. However, what I liked most about the heroine was her determination to help the hero when it came to going up against the bad guys, because it was palpable that the bad guys would be gunning for them after what happens to Eleanor and Dex.
While the hero, he's been through so much with what happened to him during a mission and I liked how much respect his fellow pilots have for him. It goes to show how well he's done in his career and that he can bounce back from such an experience as the one he had. Moreover, he has some tough decisions to make when it comes to the heroine. Does he help her with one of their fellow pilots who is determined to cause trouble for her? Does he help her with the trouble she's found herself in? But what I liked most of all is how protective the hero is of Eleanor once he learns everything she knows about what's going on.
Overall, this was a really good book Ms. Curtis has penned, which starts this series off fabulously and has me looking forward to more of this series. The way this story ended had me smiling because of what Dex did to make sure he was able to stay at Eleanor's side. No way was anyone going to keep him away, especially with the little white lie he told. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as we find out whether the hero and heroine returned to their career as pilots. I would recommend Aces Wild by Emmy Curtis, if you enjoy romantic suspense, the sexy protector trope or books by authors Kaylea Cross, Lynn Raye Harris or Christy Reece.
April 16, 2017
Aces Wild was a fast paced action packed story. I was completely intrigued with the whole story and the romance between the main characters was just plain hot. I still has some questions about the bad guys and hopefully we will get more books and answers to the questions. I do recommend this one.
April 18, 2017
I really, really enjoyed this book, until the end. The romance plot was finished well, but the suspense plot, not so much.
U.S. Air Force Major Eleanor Daniels is a top pilot. She's at the Red Flag training exercises in Las Vegas to prove her worth, to her team, and the Air Force in general. She's sick to death of fellow airmen who think, and even imply aloud, that she's only where she is because her dad is a 3-star General. If only they knew that she has practically no relationship with her father, and he's had nothing to do with her career. Even so, it seems they're inextricably linked, and it makes her mad. Then, her father shows up at the Red Flag training, and she's even more steamed, and more determined to prove herself. She doesn't need any distractions.
RAF flyboy Dexter Stone crashed his plane a year ago, and managed to walk away basically unscathed. The Red Flag training is his way to prove he's still got it, and can continue his work as a top notch pilot for the British military. He is focused on his objective, and he's not going to let anything stand in his way. Famous last words...
Dex and Eleanor's chemistry was great, and their banter was spot on and so entertaining. I loved their fun interactions. I loved even more when their chemistry started to lead somewhere, amidst the crazy suspense plot that was also taking place. The pacing of the suspense plot was quick, and exciting, and the romance matched perfectly with it. I really liked both Dex and Eleanor, and I liked them even better together. They faced a ton of outside conflict during the time when most main characters in books are in the getting-to-know-you phase. That made everything feel more urgent, and important, and I liked that.
I was very disappointed, however, with resolution of the suspense part of the plot. I can't say much without spoiling, so I won't. It appears there are 2 more books in the series scheduled, but there is no info available, so I have no idea if the same suspense plot will continue in the later books, or not. I understand they are in the military and can't always ask questions or access information regarding an investigation like a civilian, but it just felt so unfinished to me, and that non-resolution led me to knock my rating from 4-stars, to 3-stars. There were some very interesting side characters whose stories also got left unfinished, and I can only hope that the next books are about them. I can't imagine them being about anyone else. I AM curious to find out, though. I guess that means the author's job was done well, regardless of how it made me feel.
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
U.S. Air Force Major Eleanor Daniels is a top pilot. She's at the Red Flag training exercises in Las Vegas to prove her worth, to her team, and the Air Force in general. She's sick to death of fellow airmen who think, and even imply aloud, that she's only where she is because her dad is a 3-star General. If only they knew that she has practically no relationship with her father, and he's had nothing to do with her career. Even so, it seems they're inextricably linked, and it makes her mad. Then, her father shows up at the Red Flag training, and she's even more steamed, and more determined to prove herself. She doesn't need any distractions.
RAF flyboy Dexter Stone crashed his plane a year ago, and managed to walk away basically unscathed. The Red Flag training is his way to prove he's still got it, and can continue his work as a top notch pilot for the British military. He is focused on his objective, and he's not going to let anything stand in his way. Famous last words...
Dex and Eleanor's chemistry was great, and their banter was spot on and so entertaining. I loved their fun interactions. I loved even more when their chemistry started to lead somewhere, amidst the crazy suspense plot that was also taking place. The pacing of the suspense plot was quick, and exciting, and the romance matched perfectly with it. I really liked both Dex and Eleanor, and I liked them even better together. They faced a ton of outside conflict during the time when most main characters in books are in the getting-to-know-you phase. That made everything feel more urgent, and important, and I liked that.
I was very disappointed, however, with resolution of the suspense part of the plot. I can't say much without spoiling, so I won't. It appears there are 2 more books in the series scheduled, but there is no info available, so I have no idea if the same suspense plot will continue in the later books, or not. I understand they are in the military and can't always ask questions or access information regarding an investigation like a civilian, but it just felt so unfinished to me, and that non-resolution led me to knock my rating from 4-stars, to 3-stars. There were some very interesting side characters whose stories also got left unfinished, and I can only hope that the next books are about them. I can't imagine them being about anyone else. I AM curious to find out, though. I guess that means the author's job was done well, regardless of how it made me feel.
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
April 24, 2017
Woot! I'm so excited to read the next two books in this series to learn how the culprits reveal themselves! Wow, how I loved these characters and their SEXXXXY chemistry!
April 28, 2017
4 Stars
Mystery, betrayal, and non-stop action all come into play in this thrilling military romance, set in the desert of Las Vegas during a joint military training, dubbed Red Flag. This competition exercise between the best NATO air force pilots is sponsored by military contractors and billions in defense contracts are at stake.
Dexter Stone, aka Ironman, is a RAF pilot whose reputation was damaged after he crashed his aircraft in Iraq. Red Flag is the perfect opportunity to prove his ability to keep a firm hold on his impulses. Failure is not an option and would mean the end of a career that has shaped all his adult life. Dexter has found a worthy opponent in Major Eleanor Daniels, aka Bees Knees. Poised and sharp witted with a knack for teasing him, Eleanor is part of the Aggressor Squadron whose role is to prevent the others teams from achieving their assigned objectives. Eleanor has accepted to join Red Flag to prove her military rank has everything to do with her flying skills and nothing to do with her father’s influence. Her father is an officer of high rank and she has a complicated relationship with him.
Dexter and Eleanor have a lot in common and their friendly connection is a way to release the stress of the training. Eleanor is a seductive combination of daredevil attitude, and girl-next-door type. Dexter and Eleanor’s chemistry is instant, but neither one of them is willing to surrender to their mutual attraction, their focus must be on the competition. They are the perfect team, though. Cooperating will be a matter of survival when they are both caught in a twisting spiral of duplicity and corruption and their life is at stake.
The combination of danger, betrayal and chemistry makes this an entertaining read. I loved the angsty and thrilling ride of suspense, the steady rise in tension! The writing is well-paced, the story was interesting and intriguing. The happy ending was a bit rushed and abrupt, I would have enjoyed more relationship development between Dexter and Eleanor. Some plots twists were partly unresolved, but this book being the first in a new series, I hope we’ll get the answers in a next installment!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley.
Mystery, betrayal, and non-stop action all come into play in this thrilling military romance, set in the desert of Las Vegas during a joint military training, dubbed Red Flag. This competition exercise between the best NATO air force pilots is sponsored by military contractors and billions in defense contracts are at stake.
Dexter Stone, aka Ironman, is a RAF pilot whose reputation was damaged after he crashed his aircraft in Iraq. Red Flag is the perfect opportunity to prove his ability to keep a firm hold on his impulses. Failure is not an option and would mean the end of a career that has shaped all his adult life. Dexter has found a worthy opponent in Major Eleanor Daniels, aka Bees Knees. Poised and sharp witted with a knack for teasing him, Eleanor is part of the Aggressor Squadron whose role is to prevent the others teams from achieving their assigned objectives. Eleanor has accepted to join Red Flag to prove her military rank has everything to do with her flying skills and nothing to do with her father’s influence. Her father is an officer of high rank and she has a complicated relationship with him.
Dexter and Eleanor have a lot in common and their friendly connection is a way to release the stress of the training. Eleanor is a seductive combination of daredevil attitude, and girl-next-door type. Dexter and Eleanor’s chemistry is instant, but neither one of them is willing to surrender to their mutual attraction, their focus must be on the competition. They are the perfect team, though. Cooperating will be a matter of survival when they are both caught in a twisting spiral of duplicity and corruption and their life is at stake.
The combination of danger, betrayal and chemistry makes this an entertaining read. I loved the angsty and thrilling ride of suspense, the steady rise in tension! The writing is well-paced, the story was interesting and intriguing. The happy ending was a bit rushed and abrupt, I would have enjoyed more relationship development between Dexter and Eleanor. Some plots twists were partly unresolved, but this book being the first in a new series, I hope we’ll get the answers in a next installment!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley.
April 25, 2017
I really and truly loved this book. It was pretty much non-stop action, danger, and chemistry, and the witty back and forth dialog between Dex and Eleanor kept me amused. I love military romantic suspense, and this was among the better more believable ones I've read. I like that it had a definite happy ending for this couple(It was a great ending, by the way!) but left a lot of strings still to be unraveled, like what's up with Missy? I hope her story is next. I've read and enjoyed other books by Emmy Curtis, but I believe this was my favorite so far.
I received an ARC from Net Galley for honest review.
I received an ARC from Net Galley for honest review.
April 26, 2017
4 1/2 stars.
This is one of those books where I just wanted more. There was a lot going on in this book but the best part is the chemistry between Dexter and Eleanor. As with most first books, there was so much set up and other things going on, by the time everything really started going, the story was over.
I really enjoyed Dex and Eleanor. This is the first book of the series and I wish it was a continuing series of Dex and Eleanor but I fear they were just the first couple in the bunch. If that is so, there really wasn't enough put in to excite our interest in secondary characters for the next books, but again, there was so much going on that to really focus on other characters would have given us even less time with Dex and Eleanor.
Neither of the main characters have time for romance since they have both arrived at the Red Flag training (which is actually a real thing) to boost their careers. They both need to outshine all of the other pilots and don't realize right away that they are fighting on opposite teams. Dex recently crashed his aircraft and has to prove it wasn't pilot error and Eleanor is trying to get out of the shadow of her 3-Star General father.
This year's Red Flag almost didn't happen due to budget problems, until a private contractor known as TechGen-One steps in generously offering to foot the bill. But this seem out of sort when this sponsor seems to be taking over the military base and locking pilots out of their hangers.
While waiting to speak to her father about the problem at the hanger, Eleanor overhears a conversation which she shouldn't and now certain parties are concerned if she can be trusted or is she now a problem which needs to be eliminated. They send the goon squad after Eleanor which simply leads her further into the arms of Dexter.
I enjoyed this story a lot and simply wanted more of it. I wanted more Eleanor and Dex. I wanted more combat missions. I wanted more information about what Eleanor stumbled into. If anything, I have unanswered questions which will probably be part of further books. I could happily stick with Eleanor and Dex as the main focus of this series while all the secrets are dragged to the surface.
This is one of those books where I just wanted more. There was a lot going on in this book but the best part is the chemistry between Dexter and Eleanor. As with most first books, there was so much set up and other things going on, by the time everything really started going, the story was over.
I really enjoyed Dex and Eleanor. This is the first book of the series and I wish it was a continuing series of Dex and Eleanor but I fear they were just the first couple in the bunch. If that is so, there really wasn't enough put in to excite our interest in secondary characters for the next books, but again, there was so much going on that to really focus on other characters would have given us even less time with Dex and Eleanor.
Neither of the main characters have time for romance since they have both arrived at the Red Flag training (which is actually a real thing) to boost their careers. They both need to outshine all of the other pilots and don't realize right away that they are fighting on opposite teams. Dex recently crashed his aircraft and has to prove it wasn't pilot error and Eleanor is trying to get out of the shadow of her 3-Star General father.
This year's Red Flag almost didn't happen due to budget problems, until a private contractor known as TechGen-One steps in generously offering to foot the bill. But this seem out of sort when this sponsor seems to be taking over the military base and locking pilots out of their hangers.
While waiting to speak to her father about the problem at the hanger, Eleanor overhears a conversation which she shouldn't and now certain parties are concerned if she can be trusted or is she now a problem which needs to be eliminated. They send the goon squad after Eleanor which simply leads her further into the arms of Dexter.
I enjoyed this story a lot and simply wanted more of it. I wanted more Eleanor and Dex. I wanted more combat missions. I wanted more information about what Eleanor stumbled into. If anything, I have unanswered questions which will probably be part of further books. I could happily stick with Eleanor and Dex as the main focus of this series while all the secrets are dragged to the surface.
April 27, 2017
Major Eleanor Daniels is trying to make her mark in a very male dominated world, and so far she's on the right path, even earning the title of being one of the best pilots in her field, but of course she still has a lot to prove. So when she is offered the opportunity to join the elite Red Flag company she jumps at the chance to prove herself amongst some of the worlds best, even if everyone around her has their doubts about her skills. She isn't there to make friends, but shortly after meeting hunky fellow pilot Dexter Stone, she can't but be intrigued with him, and maybe even a little attracted to him to, he pushes her buttons, and makes her feel things she hasn't in a long while. But she can't be falling for a fellow pilot right now, she has a dream to conquer and distractions just aren't welcomed right now, so she tries to keep things with him under wraps. But then she hears something that wasn't meant for her ears, and soon danger ensues, and the only person she can turn to is the man she has been trying to avoid... now her and Ace are thrown into the path of danger and she is hoping he can keep them safe!
This was my first experience with this author's work and I have to say I was impressed with what I found, she created a intriguing story that kept me captivated from start to finish! The story line was packed with action, humor, mystery, and even a little toe curling romance too! It was fun to read a story where the heroine was on a level playing field with the hero and could totally handle everything that he dished out, and give it just as good in return. I enjoyed meeting these two and look forward to future visits to the series, highly recommend this one! Definitely a can't miss read!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.
This was my first experience with this author's work and I have to say I was impressed with what I found, she created a intriguing story that kept me captivated from start to finish! The story line was packed with action, humor, mystery, and even a little toe curling romance too! It was fun to read a story where the heroine was on a level playing field with the hero and could totally handle everything that he dished out, and give it just as good in return. I enjoyed meeting these two and look forward to future visits to the series, highly recommend this one! Definitely a can't miss read!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.
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