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Unexpected Love #3
His Courage
Asher
Falling for a straight guy could only end in disaster. But I was stupid. Reckless. Ivan was my best friend, my brother in arms, and with one kiss between us, everything changed.
I lost him.
Five years later, we’re forced back together. How? Well it involves a summer camp where we have to share a cabin. Yeah, the weather isn’t the only thing that gets hot.
My feelings for him are stronger than ever. Yet, he’s hesitant. Confused. Will he ever see how right we are together?
Ivan
Bug spray? Check. Sunscreen? Check. Pent-up desire for your best friend that you can no longer run from? Also, check.
When I agreed to be an instructor at a summer camp for troubled teens, I never expected to see Asher there. Each time our eyes meet, I remember how his lips felt against mine. I want to feel them again. But I’m straight. Right?
One thing is for sure: camp just got a lot more interesting.
*His Courage is Book 3 in the Unexpected Love series and includes forced proximity in a cabin, second chances, and a summer of love and self-discovery.*
Falling for a straight guy could only end in disaster. But I was stupid. Reckless. Ivan was my best friend, my brother in arms, and with one kiss between us, everything changed.
I lost him.
Five years later, we’re forced back together. How? Well it involves a summer camp where we have to share a cabin. Yeah, the weather isn’t the only thing that gets hot.
My feelings for him are stronger than ever. Yet, he’s hesitant. Confused. Will he ever see how right we are together?
Ivan
Bug spray? Check. Sunscreen? Check. Pent-up desire for your best friend that you can no longer run from? Also, check.
When I agreed to be an instructor at a summer camp for troubled teens, I never expected to see Asher there. Each time our eyes meet, I remember how his lips felt against mine. I want to feel them again. But I’m straight. Right?
One thing is for sure: camp just got a lot more interesting.
*His Courage is Book 3 in the Unexpected Love series and includes forced proximity in a cabin, second chances, and a summer of love and self-discovery.*
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2020
98 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
About the author
Jaclyn Osborn
50 books1,787 followersAs an avid reader and coffee addict, Jaclyn Osborn can always be found with either a book in her hand or one being written on her laptop. The men in her stories mean the world to her, and she's thankful for each day she's able to do this as a career.
She writes M/M romance across all genres and worlds, including contemporary, historical, fantasy, and paranormal.
She writes M/M romance across all genres and worlds, including contemporary, historical, fantasy, and paranormal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 13, 2022
Ivan has my heart as a troublesome marine.
Love hurt/comfort in military
Love hurt/comfort in military
August 1, 2024
Original review from 2020:
Second-chance, friends-to-lovers, and bi-for-you all rolled up into one sweet package.
Ivan and Asher seem really good for each other. I wish that we had seen more of Foster in this book, but with all the camp kids, there was kinda the same feeling.
__________________
Re-read 2024: I'm not in the habit of changing my reviews or rating, but just putting it out there, that had I read it for the first time now, I might not have rated it as high, as I found myself annoyed by their mediocre communication skills.
Second-chance, friends-to-lovers, and bi-for-you all rolled up into one sweet package.
Ivan and Asher seem really good for each other. I wish that we had seen more of Foster in this book, but with all the camp kids, there was kinda the same feeling.
__________________
Re-read 2024: I'm not in the habit of changing my reviews or rating, but just putting it out there, that had I read it for the first time now, I might not have rated it as high, as I found myself annoyed by their mediocre communication skills.
August 5, 2020
His Courage gave me HIM vibes, but not as engrossing. Initially, the story was slow going for me, but my interest picked up about halfway into the book. Ivan’s prosthesis was handled well, and I loved to see that representation. The PTSD and unbalance both MCs felt with their life after returning from deployment was another aspect of the story I enjoyed. Foster and Chance were sweet kids, and Kota pulled at my heartstrings. An enjoyable read with a sweet ending.
July 12, 2020
Ivan and Asher.
Both were with the Marines, together for three years, Ivan got injured and couldn’t go back. Asher signed for another five years. They were best friends, buddies until one night Asher showed his feelings.
Asher returns home after five years, welcomed home with a part by his sister and friends and awkwardly Ivan.
Finding his way outside the army isn’t easy. Asher will work as an instructor for the teenagers boot camp and guess who he has to share a cabin with. Yup Ivan. They have the best time together.
Ivan is confused by his feelings and has big trouble to commit.
“You’re my brother, Ash. My best friend. But that’s all you’ll ever be. Got it?”
Oh boy, I loved this story even though I didn’t like Ivan much. I was team Asher.
An emotional story with flawed and vulnerable characters.
Mountains have to be overcome before they got what they wanted.
Quite the journey!
A great series!
Both were with the Marines, together for three years, Ivan got injured and couldn’t go back. Asher signed for another five years. They were best friends, buddies until one night Asher showed his feelings.
Asher returns home after five years, welcomed home with a part by his sister and friends and awkwardly Ivan.
Finding his way outside the army isn’t easy. Asher will work as an instructor for the teenagers boot camp and guess who he has to share a cabin with. Yup Ivan. They have the best time together.
Ivan is confused by his feelings and has big trouble to commit.
“You’re my brother, Ash. My best friend. But that’s all you’ll ever be. Got it?”
Oh boy, I loved this story even though I didn’t like Ivan much. I was team Asher.
An emotional story with flawed and vulnerable characters.
Mountains have to be overcome before they got what they wanted.
Quite the journey!
A great series!
July 5, 2020
Let me start by saying that I had not read the previous two books before this one, so I went back and read them before starting this one. I am glad I did. I do not think this is one series that you should read out of order as characters from the previous books have important roles in this one and the stories are interconnected in a way.
I absolutely love Bi (or Pan) Awakening stories (what some call GFY, but that encourages bi/pan erasure so let's work on encouraging the other name for this trope in place of it). This trope makes up some of my favorite books when done right, and this one was definitely done right. For a start, this also features the best friends to lovers and second chance tropes. Personally, I think the Bi Awakening trope pairs incredibly well with both or either of these.
Asher has just finished his duty serving in the military and is struggling with the next steps of his life. He doesn't know what to do besides serving in the military, and it's definitely a identity crisis. Now when that crisis meets his best friend, who was previously medically discharged from the military, Ivan, he is confronted with his attraction to said supposedly straight best friend because before Ivan went home (after losing a leg from a bomb) Asher expressed his unrequited feelings about him. This caused the two to distance themselves from each other for individual reasons.
Yet, when they both find themselves bunking in the same room at a camp they are working at for the summer, they have startling realizations about what it means to allow oneself to let go and trust in what they have in each other. It takes Ivan accepting his own attractions and Asher learning that he doesn't have to rely on the military for his sole identity and purpose to embrace in their new found dynamic.
I really enjoyed this one; it was by far my favorite in the series.
*ARC provided, I have given my honest review*
I absolutely love Bi (or Pan) Awakening stories (what some call GFY, but that encourages bi/pan erasure so let's work on encouraging the other name for this trope in place of it). This trope makes up some of my favorite books when done right, and this one was definitely done right. For a start, this also features the best friends to lovers and second chance tropes. Personally, I think the Bi Awakening trope pairs incredibly well with both or either of these.
Asher has just finished his duty serving in the military and is struggling with the next steps of his life. He doesn't know what to do besides serving in the military, and it's definitely a identity crisis. Now when that crisis meets his best friend, who was previously medically discharged from the military, Ivan, he is confronted with his attraction to said supposedly straight best friend because before Ivan went home (after losing a leg from a bomb) Asher expressed his unrequited feelings about him. This caused the two to distance themselves from each other for individual reasons.
Yet, when they both find themselves bunking in the same room at a camp they are working at for the summer, they have startling realizations about what it means to allow oneself to let go and trust in what they have in each other. It takes Ivan accepting his own attractions and Asher learning that he doesn't have to rely on the military for his sole identity and purpose to embrace in their new found dynamic.
I really enjoyed this one; it was by far my favorite in the series.
*ARC provided, I have given my honest review*
August 31, 2020
Great military romance
Ivan and Asher are ying and yang...2 halves of a whole...connected through service, brotherhood, and a deep connection only shared by your shooting star. Friends to lovers...bi-awakening...acceptance...and finding your purpose. Good stuff and highly recommended.
Ivan and Asher are ying and yang...2 halves of a whole...connected through service, brotherhood, and a deep connection only shared by your shooting star. Friends to lovers...bi-awakening...acceptance...and finding your purpose. Good stuff and highly recommended.
December 10, 2020
Underwhelming at best. Some of my favorite tropes, but nothing there.
January 3, 2026
(3,75 stars rated up) Ivan and Asher's story was the one I was really excited about and the one I couldn't wait to get my hands on, except when I started reading it back in 2020 I kind of just stopped after reaching a half way mark and never came back to it until now when I decided to finish what I started five years ago.
Ivan is a former Marine and a single parent of a precocious teenager, whose marriage fell apart after losing the lower part of his leg and being discharged from service. Five years after the fact he is working as a mechanic and still trying to get his life back on track. When he gets an invitation to attend a welcome home party for Asher, another Marine and Ivan's best friend, who he hasn't spoken to in five years, Ivan can only say yes and drive four hours for a chance to see and talk to Asher again.
Asher who has been in love with Ivan ever since first meeting him is more than happy when he sees Ivan again. Just like five years ago when he finally admitted his feelings to Ivan, when Ivan was recovering from surgery, Asher tries to get an answer from Ivan on where they stand but once again Ivan pushes him away not ready to admit that he might have more than brotherly feelings for Asher as well.
But the universe has other plans and Ivan and Asher end up as instructors and roommates in a summer camp for teenagers. Being in such close proximity to Asher, Ivan finally admits his attraction to Asher and their relationship turns sexual. Except, Ivan is still struggling with labeling himself as bisexual and making himself vulnerable again, while Asher is afraid Ivan will break his heart by pushing him away one last time.
This story had some of my favorite romance tropes; friends to lovers, former military men, pining for a "straight" best friend, bisexual awakening. All this made my expectations of this story quite high, which means that my eventual disappointment when the story didn't follow the path I was hoping it would was that much worse. I wanted more unresolved sexual tension between Asher and Ivan, instead the two of them jumping each other's bones the moment they found themselves both in the same place again. I wanted Ivan actually questioning his feelings for Asher, instead of admitting them only to better try to bury them. I wanted their developing relationship to be something more than lack of communication and overabundance of sex scenes.
Eventually, these two managed to actually communicate their feelings and find their way back to each other and despite that fact that their journey didn't "cater to my expectations" (yes, I'm aware how entitled I sound) it did end on a high note which improved my overall enjoyment of the story.
In the end I'm glad that I managed to finish this series and write all the book reviews second time around. Being able to put a check mark on something that I've started five years ago does fill me with its own sense of satisfaction.
Theme: dual POV, friends to lovers, ex military, bisexual awakening, forced proximity, character with a prosthetic
Ivan is a former Marine and a single parent of a precocious teenager, whose marriage fell apart after losing the lower part of his leg and being discharged from service. Five years after the fact he is working as a mechanic and still trying to get his life back on track. When he gets an invitation to attend a welcome home party for Asher, another Marine and Ivan's best friend, who he hasn't spoken to in five years, Ivan can only say yes and drive four hours for a chance to see and talk to Asher again.
Asher who has been in love with Ivan ever since first meeting him is more than happy when he sees Ivan again. Just like five years ago when he finally admitted his feelings to Ivan, when Ivan was recovering from surgery, Asher tries to get an answer from Ivan on where they stand but once again Ivan pushes him away not ready to admit that he might have more than brotherly feelings for Asher as well.
But the universe has other plans and Ivan and Asher end up as instructors and roommates in a summer camp for teenagers. Being in such close proximity to Asher, Ivan finally admits his attraction to Asher and their relationship turns sexual. Except, Ivan is still struggling with labeling himself as bisexual and making himself vulnerable again, while Asher is afraid Ivan will break his heart by pushing him away one last time.
This story had some of my favorite romance tropes; friends to lovers, former military men, pining for a "straight" best friend, bisexual awakening. All this made my expectations of this story quite high, which means that my eventual disappointment when the story didn't follow the path I was hoping it would was that much worse. I wanted more unresolved sexual tension between Asher and Ivan, instead the two of them jumping each other's bones the moment they found themselves both in the same place again. I wanted Ivan actually questioning his feelings for Asher, instead of admitting them only to better try to bury them. I wanted their developing relationship to be something more than lack of communication and overabundance of sex scenes.
Eventually, these two managed to actually communicate their feelings and find their way back to each other and despite that fact that their journey didn't "cater to my expectations" (yes, I'm aware how entitled I sound) it did end on a high note which improved my overall enjoyment of the story.
In the end I'm glad that I managed to finish this series and write all the book reviews second time around. Being able to put a check mark on something that I've started five years ago does fill me with its own sense of satisfaction.
Theme: dual POV, friends to lovers, ex military, bisexual awakening, forced proximity, character with a prosthetic
December 3, 2023
Ivan es el hermano de Jay, protagonista del segundo libro. Es exmilitar y se tuvo que retirar tras perder una pierna en una misión. Se ha divorciado hace un año de su mujer después de que ésta le fuese infiel y le dejase por su amante. Ivan se mudó con su hijo cerca de donde vive Jay, ya que su mujer renunció a la custodia. Es heterosexual, pero durante tres años, cuando estaba en el ejército, tuvo una relación de amistad especial con Asher, por el que sintió una especie de atracción que nunca ha definido. Asher e Ivan no se han visto en cinco años ya que se distanciaron después de que cuando Asher le visitó en el hospital mientras se estaba recuperando de su lesión le besase y le confesase sus sentimientos e Ivan le rechazase.
Asher acaba de terminar su servicio militar y en su fiesta de bienvenida a casa se reencuentra con Ivan. Se alegra mucho de verle porque no le ha olvidado, pero en cuanto vuelven a hablar de lo que pasó, Ivan le vuelve a rechazar. Lo que ninguno de los dos sabe es que van a tener que volver a compartir tiempo juntos porque coinciden como instructores en un campamento militar para jóvenes que dura un mes. Incluso tienen que compartir habitación. Ambos están pasando por mucho. Asher está lidiando con su enamoramiento no correspondido por su amigo heterosexual y con encontrar un nuevo camino y dilucidar su futuro como civil. Ivan tiene dudas sobre su sexualidad y sobre lo que siente por Asher y además tiene mucha inseguridad y dificultad para confiar en otras personas después de lo que pasó con su exmujer. Le cuesta mucho aceptar su atracción por Asher pero con la proximidad forzada y lo tentador que resulta Asher acaba cayendo en la tentación.
Me gusta leer libros con el tropo de despertar bisexual y éste está especialmente bien escrito y la trama adecuadamente desarrollada, ya que no pasa de forma apresurada, sino que a Ivan le lleva años aceptarse. También, cuando empiezan a explorar sexualmente, se muestran las inseguridades de ambos mientras van experimentando. Pasan un mes juntos en el oasis del campamento, pero cuando tienen que volver a casa deben tomar decisiones sobre su futuro real.
Es el libro que me más me ha gustado de la saga. Lo recomiendo mucho, es un romance de amigos a amantes con despertar bisexual de uno de los protagonistas y una segunda oportunidad. Los dos protagonistas han pasado por mucho y tienen que lidiar con las secuelas de su vida militar, como el trastorno de estrés postraumático y, en el caso de Ivan, la amputación de su pierna. Aunque a ambos les falta mejorar la comunicación y las inseguridades de ambos casi les separan, pero por suerte lo consiguen solucionar al final del libro porque se merecen acabar juntos.
#M-M-romance #Bi-Awakening #Military-romance #Friends-to-lovers
Asher acaba de terminar su servicio militar y en su fiesta de bienvenida a casa se reencuentra con Ivan. Se alegra mucho de verle porque no le ha olvidado, pero en cuanto vuelven a hablar de lo que pasó, Ivan le vuelve a rechazar. Lo que ninguno de los dos sabe es que van a tener que volver a compartir tiempo juntos porque coinciden como instructores en un campamento militar para jóvenes que dura un mes. Incluso tienen que compartir habitación. Ambos están pasando por mucho. Asher está lidiando con su enamoramiento no correspondido por su amigo heterosexual y con encontrar un nuevo camino y dilucidar su futuro como civil. Ivan tiene dudas sobre su sexualidad y sobre lo que siente por Asher y además tiene mucha inseguridad y dificultad para confiar en otras personas después de lo que pasó con su exmujer. Le cuesta mucho aceptar su atracción por Asher pero con la proximidad forzada y lo tentador que resulta Asher acaba cayendo en la tentación.
Me gusta leer libros con el tropo de despertar bisexual y éste está especialmente bien escrito y la trama adecuadamente desarrollada, ya que no pasa de forma apresurada, sino que a Ivan le lleva años aceptarse. También, cuando empiezan a explorar sexualmente, se muestran las inseguridades de ambos mientras van experimentando. Pasan un mes juntos en el oasis del campamento, pero cuando tienen que volver a casa deben tomar decisiones sobre su futuro real.
Es el libro que me más me ha gustado de la saga. Lo recomiendo mucho, es un romance de amigos a amantes con despertar bisexual de uno de los protagonistas y una segunda oportunidad. Los dos protagonistas han pasado por mucho y tienen que lidiar con las secuelas de su vida militar, como el trastorno de estrés postraumático y, en el caso de Ivan, la amputación de su pierna. Aunque a ambos les falta mejorar la comunicación y las inseguridades de ambos casi les separan, pero por suerte lo consiguen solucionar al final del libro porque se merecen acabar juntos.
#M-M-romance #Bi-Awakening #Military-romance #Friends-to-lovers
August 2, 2020
3,5/5
Cette fois, nous suivons l'histoire d'Ivan, le frère de Jay. Ivan va retrouver son meilleur ami, son frère d'armes, qu'il n'a pas revu depuis cinq ans. Blessé et amputé d'une jambe, Ivan a quitté l'armée, ce qui n'était pas le cas d'Asher, qui a signé pour des années supplémentaires.
Le truc, c'est qu'ils se sont quitt��s un peu froidement, Asher ayant révélé son homosexualité et attirance à Ivan, qui a préféré lui tourner le dos.
Ils se retrouvent donc pour une fête organisée pour son retour à la maison, sauf que la situation est pour le moins embarrassante. Ce qui va l'être encore plus car les deux hommes vont cohabiter ensemble, tout deux ayant acceptés de travailler dans un camp pour adolescents.
J'ai bien aimé dans l'ensemble, des frères d'armes et amis qui se retrouvent à éprouver chacun des sentiments amoureux.
L'auteur réussi tout de même a créer une petit tension, du moins au début. Car il est vrai qu'ils craquent rapidement. J'ai eu un peu peur que l'ensemble s’essouffle, mais en fin de compte non.
Après, c'est le genre d'histoire un peu déjà vue pour moi et malheureusement ici, même si c'était sympa, ça manque de profondeur.
Ce fut une bonne lecture de détente. J'ai apprécié aussi revoir les autres personnages, en particulier Jay, très protecteur avec son frère. Et puis, j'avoue m'être aussi attachée un peu à eux ^^
Cette fois, nous suivons l'histoire d'Ivan, le frère de Jay. Ivan va retrouver son meilleur ami, son frère d'armes, qu'il n'a pas revu depuis cinq ans. Blessé et amputé d'une jambe, Ivan a quitté l'armée, ce qui n'était pas le cas d'Asher, qui a signé pour des années supplémentaires.
Le truc, c'est qu'ils se sont quitt��s un peu froidement, Asher ayant révélé son homosexualité et attirance à Ivan, qui a préféré lui tourner le dos.
Ils se retrouvent donc pour une fête organisée pour son retour à la maison, sauf que la situation est pour le moins embarrassante. Ce qui va l'être encore plus car les deux hommes vont cohabiter ensemble, tout deux ayant acceptés de travailler dans un camp pour adolescents.
J'ai bien aimé dans l'ensemble, des frères d'armes et amis qui se retrouvent à éprouver chacun des sentiments amoureux.
L'auteur réussi tout de même a créer une petit tension, du moins au début. Car il est vrai qu'ils craquent rapidement. J'ai eu un peu peur que l'ensemble s’essouffle, mais en fin de compte non.
Après, c'est le genre d'histoire un peu déjà vue pour moi et malheureusement ici, même si c'était sympa, ça manque de profondeur.
Ce fut une bonne lecture de détente. J'ai apprécié aussi revoir les autres personnages, en particulier Jay, très protecteur avec son frère. Et puis, j'avoue m'être aussi attachée un peu à eux ^^
July 12, 2020
Omg!!! This book was absolutely incredible!! I fell hard for the character of Asher!! He was charming, hilarious, had the biggest heart, patience of a saint, and love hard! He put everybody's needs before his, family's, friends and the brother's he served with in the military.
So when Ivan showed up to his welcome home party after his retirement, shocked barely covered what he was feeling.
Ever since Ivan was forced to leave the only thing he loved besides his son, it took him time to adjust to civil life especially after the betrayal of his wife. Five years later and a phone call letting him know that the one man that he felt was more than a best friend was coming home, he knew he had to go.
Sadly things didn't end well, however a chance decision ends them both up at the same summer camp helping misguided kids and if that isn't the kick in the pants they are also sharing the same cabin.
Hold on to your panties/ boxers cause the night air isn't the only thing that will make your hot and sweaty! These two are like dynamite when they finally cave into their desires!
Between stubborn kids, tiresome long days and even longer nights this camp is the best thing that has happen not only Asher and Ivan but to a few of these kids that needed guidance, structure and love.
So when Ivan showed up to his welcome home party after his retirement, shocked barely covered what he was feeling.
Ever since Ivan was forced to leave the only thing he loved besides his son, it took him time to adjust to civil life especially after the betrayal of his wife. Five years later and a phone call letting him know that the one man that he felt was more than a best friend was coming home, he knew he had to go.
Sadly things didn't end well, however a chance decision ends them both up at the same summer camp helping misguided kids and if that isn't the kick in the pants they are also sharing the same cabin.
Hold on to your panties/ boxers cause the night air isn't the only thing that will make your hot and sweaty! These two are like dynamite when they finally cave into their desires!
Between stubborn kids, tiresome long days and even longer nights this camp is the best thing that has happen not only Asher and Ivan but to a few of these kids that needed guidance, structure and love.
July 14, 2020
This was such a sweet story, with the perfect fluff to angst ratio. Translation: more fluff than angst.
Ian and Ash were in the marines together for three years. They were best friends, until a roadside bomb and a private confession separated them for five years. Then Ash came home...
This book is their story. It’s one if friendship, loss, changes, and renewal. The men meet back up, by sheer fate, at a summer camp for at risk boys. Not only are they at the same camp, but they are roommates. Over the course of the summer, fears abd secrets must be faced. Can they ever be best friends again? Could they be more?
This is book three in the series. We see the gentlemen from book two, as Jay and Ian are brothers. It can be read as a stand-alone, though. I really enjoyed this book. The writing was engaging and the characters were fun and easy to like. The banter between the characters was fun and easy. With a combination of hot men and witty dialogue, what’s not to like?
***I voluntarily accepted an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews. My review reflects my own thoughts and opinions***
Ian and Ash were in the marines together for three years. They were best friends, until a roadside bomb and a private confession separated them for five years. Then Ash came home...
This book is their story. It’s one if friendship, loss, changes, and renewal. The men meet back up, by sheer fate, at a summer camp for at risk boys. Not only are they at the same camp, but they are roommates. Over the course of the summer, fears abd secrets must be faced. Can they ever be best friends again? Could they be more?
This is book three in the series. We see the gentlemen from book two, as Jay and Ian are brothers. It can be read as a stand-alone, though. I really enjoyed this book. The writing was engaging and the characters were fun and easy to like. The banter between the characters was fun and easy. With a combination of hot men and witty dialogue, what’s not to like?
***I voluntarily accepted an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews. My review reflects my own thoughts and opinions***
July 7, 2020
This book was SO good! Ivan and Asher were in the Marines together until a roadside bomb caused Ivan to lose half of his leg. Asher always had a soft spot for his straight....and married....best friend, but when he almost lost him, he realized he HAD to tell him how he really felt. Ivan loved Asher as well, but not in THAT way....more like in a Marine-brother way, so things got very uncomfortable and the two lost touch when Ivan was discharged. 5 years later, Asher gets out of the service and through a chance roommate situation at a camp for troubled teens, these two get the chance to talk about their past and possibly their future. Camp Devil Dog reminds Ivan and Asher about how much mischief they used get into and also how much they really need each other. It also allows them to use their leadership skills to help out some kids who would otherwise slip through the cracks in the system. This book had some heavy moments but they were necessary for the growth of the characters. Sweet, yet steamy scenes were lots of fun too!
November 9, 2020
Asher and Ivan's story is the best of this series! We got little hints that it was on it's way in books 1 & 2, but it was even better than I imagined.
The author really took the time to not only flesh out both characters, but to let us understand their back-story and their emotions. Not only that, but their struggles as well. The author did a great job of showing us the PTSD that they each suffer, although in some of the descriptions it barely began to scratch the surface.
It was great to see how welcoming Ivan's family was to his sexuality, and his boyfriend. Ashers parents disowning him was an emotional point, but Natalia's love and her care for Asher straight away was a wonderful inclusion.
I really enjoyed this book, it was just what the series needed. I'm curious to find out if we will be lucky enough to get a book 4 in this series now.
The author really took the time to not only flesh out both characters, but to let us understand their back-story and their emotions. Not only that, but their struggles as well. The author did a great job of showing us the PTSD that they each suffer, although in some of the descriptions it barely began to scratch the surface.
It was great to see how welcoming Ivan's family was to his sexuality, and his boyfriend. Ashers parents disowning him was an emotional point, but Natalia's love and her care for Asher straight away was a wonderful inclusion.
I really enjoyed this book, it was just what the series needed. I'm curious to find out if we will be lucky enough to get a book 4 in this series now.
July 6, 2020
His courage
We meet Ivan in His Surrender. He is Jay’s Marine brother. Boy oh boy I couldn’t wait for his story. You could see how confused and struggling with himself in that book. This is a stand-alone and you do not need to read His Surrender first but if you haven’t, I would.
Ivan and Asher became best best friends when they met in the military. They bonded like no other and were everything to each other until one unfortunate day.
Five years later they unexpectedly reunite.
I felt Ivan’s confusion, his questioning, but his love for Asher. Asher, boy than man has a heart of gold and doesn’t even know it.
I loved everything about this book from their reuniting, to the camp, the kids, and the surrender.
We meet Ivan in His Surrender. He is Jay’s Marine brother. Boy oh boy I couldn’t wait for his story. You could see how confused and struggling with himself in that book. This is a stand-alone and you do not need to read His Surrender first but if you haven’t, I would.
Ivan and Asher became best best friends when they met in the military. They bonded like no other and were everything to each other until one unfortunate day.
Five years later they unexpectedly reunite.
I felt Ivan’s confusion, his questioning, but his love for Asher. Asher, boy than man has a heart of gold and doesn’t even know it.
I loved everything about this book from their reuniting, to the camp, the kids, and the surrender.
July 7, 2020
War is hell...and cannot be diminished...in how it affects those fighting and those left at home.
Those in the combat zones need all our support...and it doesn't stop when they come home.
This is a beautiful story of love existing for years, even when it isn't reciprocated.
It survives on hope, prayers and a belief that it will be returned some day.
I loved Chance, Asher, Foster, Ivan, Madeline, Jay and Remi. I'm hoping for future glimpses of the boys from the camp. The romance between these pages was wonderful.
Seeing as this is part of a series...I need to go back and read the first two books. I can't wait to see who shows up in them and how they got their HEA's. After all...this is by Jaclyn Osborn, so I know it's there!
Those in the combat zones need all our support...and it doesn't stop when they come home.
This is a beautiful story of love existing for years, even when it isn't reciprocated.
It survives on hope, prayers and a belief that it will be returned some day.
I loved Chance, Asher, Foster, Ivan, Madeline, Jay and Remi. I'm hoping for future glimpses of the boys from the camp. The romance between these pages was wonderful.
Seeing as this is part of a series...I need to go back and read the first two books. I can't wait to see who shows up in them and how they got their HEA's. After all...this is by Jaclyn Osborn, so I know it's there!
July 17, 2020
An unexpected love, but so much more..
Oh my goodness, this book was everything and more! I loved everything about the book. It was wonderful learning Ivan and Asher's story as well as their individual stories. Their relationship and love was well fought for and Jaclyn made you feel every one of those emotions. You will be met with humor and sadness, frustration and hope. I loved the new characters and would love to see more of them. I just loved this book so much. I cannot wait for more. I definitely recommend reading books 1 and 2 first. You will not be disappointed. I want to say so much more but if I do, I might end up spoiling it for you..
Go get the book...all 3 of them :-) Cheers and happy reading xo
Oh my goodness, this book was everything and more! I loved everything about the book. It was wonderful learning Ivan and Asher's story as well as their individual stories. Their relationship and love was well fought for and Jaclyn made you feel every one of those emotions. You will be met with humor and sadness, frustration and hope. I loved the new characters and would love to see more of them. I just loved this book so much. I cannot wait for more. I definitely recommend reading books 1 and 2 first. You will not be disappointed. I want to say so much more but if I do, I might end up spoiling it for you..
Go get the book...all 3 of them :-) Cheers and happy reading xo
July 7, 2020
I was anxiously awaiting Ivan’s story and it did not disappoint!! Ash was Ivan’s best friend while they were serving together in Afghanistan. When Ivan is in the hospital, Ash kisses Ivan. Ivan is horrified and rejects Ash. Flash forward 5 years. Ash is done with his contract with the Marines, he comes home. They reunite as friends. This was am awesome bi-sexual awakening story. All the side characters were beautifully woven all thru the story. Highly recommend if you need a feel-good story!!
I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
July 11, 2020
I did not think I could love anyone as much as Jay, but Ivan comes so so close. My heart hurt for him the whole time. He's so worried Foster is going to want to move to New York with his mother, and on top of that, Asher is back in his life and so is the fear of giving in and possibly losing something so important to him. And oh, Asher most definitely hurt my heart as well. I'll admit to being a little frustrated with Ivan (well, as much as I could be anyway) every time he pushed Asher away. It's not easy sailing for either of them, and there is pining and angst, but there's also so much sweetness and explosive chemistry. The perfect mix to leave my heart incredibly happy at the end!
July 5, 2020
We get Ivan's backstory and romance in this third book of the series! We saw a glimpse in His Surrender and had an inkling but with Ivan's continued denial through the end of His Surrender and a good portion of His Courage, it was hard to imagine a happily ever after with Asher. However Jaclyn Osborn pulled through for us and just when Asher gave up for good, Ivan came rushing in to claim the love of his life and his shooting star. Five fabulous stars for this story about two men who kept finding their way to one another over a span of eight years.
July 15, 2020
Ivan and Asher. Two best friends united by their job, but held together by their feelings. They go their separate ways but when they meet again, the sparks fly, chemistry revs and well there’s a bit of angst because Ivan is straight. But not for long is Asher gets his wishes. It’s a second chance at love, with two lovely characters, with a struggle in their hands and a life to build together. I loved the story, the characters and specially the kids at camp plus Foss. I totally recommend the author. 💜💜
July 17, 2020
Beautiful story
I have always loved Osborn’s books. They’re so full of emotion, and I swear I cry a little when I read them. This was no exception. I loved the relationship between Ash & Ivan. My heart broke for Ash though, so many years of loving Ivan, and being only friends. The whole camp situation was great, I loved seeing them interacting with the kids and growing as a couple. The acceptance Asher got from Ivan’s family - and all that Russian ! YES ! Well done, definitely a beautiful story.
I have always loved Osborn’s books. They’re so full of emotion, and I swear I cry a little when I read them. This was no exception. I loved the relationship between Ash & Ivan. My heart broke for Ash though, so many years of loving Ivan, and being only friends. The whole camp situation was great, I loved seeing them interacting with the kids and growing as a couple. The acceptance Asher got from Ivan’s family - and all that Russian ! YES ! Well done, definitely a beautiful story.
August 28, 2020
"His Courage" received FOUR stars.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
*gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
* gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything s/he writes."
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
*gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
* gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything s/he writes."
July 8, 2020
GAH.... This was so good! I loved it! I loved Ivan & Asher, they were perfect together even though it took them 8 years to finally get there. They met in the Marines together, Asher got dismissed because he lost a leg on roadside bombing, then 5 years later they meet again by being bunk mates & instructors for a boot camp for troubled teens. Things get talked about & get steamy and some tears are shed, oh so good and very emotional. I may have ugly cried.... Amazing! A Must Read!!
July 9, 2020
Courage to Love
I went through a rollercoaster of emotions reading this novel. I loved Asher and Maddie's interactions, I laughed at most of them. Ivan and Asher - the flashbacks and the sunsets and the stargazing - sigh, so so romantic. I cried at parts, as well. It's been fun seeing the growth of these characters over these last couple novels. Overall, a great story with lively characters.
I went through a rollercoaster of emotions reading this novel. I loved Asher and Maddie's interactions, I laughed at most of them. Ivan and Asher - the flashbacks and the sunsets and the stargazing - sigh, so so romantic. I cried at parts, as well. It's been fun seeing the growth of these characters over these last couple novels. Overall, a great story with lively characters.
July 15, 2020
I loved this best friends to lovers/second chance romance/Bi awakening story so much!
Ivan & Asher were each other's best friends during their time in the Marines. Things change when Ivan is injured and leaves the service. After five years of no contact they are brought back together.
I loved seeing how their relationship evolves into so much more than they could have expected.
This story is full of emotion, steam and so much more! Great addition to the Unexpected Love series.
Ivan & Asher were each other's best friends during their time in the Marines. Things change when Ivan is injured and leaves the service. After five years of no contact they are brought back together.
I loved seeing how their relationship evolves into so much more than they could have expected.
This story is full of emotion, steam and so much more! Great addition to the Unexpected Love series.
July 13, 2021
Direct to favorites but the 4 stars are because of Ash being so pushy and Ivan running so much, I like the angs/fluff ratio and the sex was hot af, I read this book from start to end without skipping the smut parts and I haven't done that since a long time ago, I loved Ivan's son and his family, the last part was a little too much drama but it was developed well, I would probably give this 4.5 once I re-read it in some weeks
July 7, 2020
Loved it!!!
As soon as i finished the last book I was dying to read this one. Let me tell you it exceeded all of my expectations. This was such a beautiful story with moments of self discovery, love, hope, and some heartache. I was unable to put it down and finished it in one sitting.
As soon as i finished the last book I was dying to read this one. Let me tell you it exceeded all of my expectations. This was such a beautiful story with moments of self discovery, love, hope, and some heartache. I was unable to put it down and finished it in one sitting.
July 14, 2020
I was anxiously waiting for Ivan's story from the very moment he appeared in the books. I loved this story so much!
The complicated men and their complicated lives, with an attraction too strong to fight for too long? Soooo captivating!
The complicated men and their complicated lives, with an attraction too strong to fight for too long? Soooo captivating!
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