What do you think?
Rate this book
Because of the Brave
Designated Target by Laura Baumbach, Jumping Off Places by Z.A. Maxfield, and Josh Lanyon's Until We Meet Once More make up this contemporary anthology. Fifteen percent of the sales of Because of the Brave sold at the Aspen Mountain Press website will be donated to the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network between release and September 11th!
Perrenial favorites, Laura Baumbach, Josh Lanyon and Z.A. Maxfield contributed to the anthology Because of the Brave. This collection honors the men who've served in the military and labored with the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. Fifteen percent of the download price at Aspen Mountain Press will go toward the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network. In Laura Baumbach's Designated Target a soldier returns to his commander's hometown to tell his brother the truth. about what happened in the field. Josh Lanyon's Until We Meet Once More pits a Naval Academy graduate against the Taliban and his own repressed past. Finally in Z.A. Maxfield's Jumping Off Places a soldier returns home to be with his dying mother and finds more than he bargained for in the place he'd hoped to never see again.
Perrenial favorites, Laura Baumbach, Josh Lanyon and Z.A. Maxfield contributed to the anthology Because of the Brave. This collection honors the men who've served in the military and labored with the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. Fifteen percent of the download price at Aspen Mountain Press will go toward the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network. In Laura Baumbach's Designated Target a soldier returns to his commander's hometown to tell his brother the truth. about what happened in the field. Josh Lanyon's Until We Meet Once More pits a Naval Academy graduate against the Taliban and his own repressed past. Finally in Z.A. Maxfield's Jumping Off Places a soldier returns home to be with his dying mother and finds more than he bargained for in the place he'd hoped to never see again.
ebook
First published July 16, 2009
4 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 19, 2009
Designated Target by Laura Baumbach (2 of 5 stars)
Carson Crosby is a lonely young man still reeling from the unexpected and tragic death of his brother while on active duty in the Army. Working in a food bank one day he meets a man named China who trips all his buttons. The big handsome Army man appeals to him but having just had a bad experience with a big bully he's in no hurry to deal with another big macho man. As luck would have it China helps him deal with the guy who's been giving him problems and they decide to spend some time together.
This story was the weakest of the three in this anthology. A lot of it was in the editing. For some reason it contains several spelling and grammatical errors not present in the other two and that really threw me out of the story every time I came up on it. Also, I felt the relationship between Carson and China was rushed and the fact that there was no condom used when they had sex for the first time after just meeting didn't work for me.
However even with those issues I still enjoyed the story. I liked Carson and China, both are good men who've experienced tragedy in their lives and are coping as best they can. There was a bit of misunderstanding in their relationship which was quickly resolved and the ending leaves the reader with hope that these two will have a happier future together.
Jumping Off Places by ZA Maxfield (4 of 5 stars)
When Peter Hsu comes home to be with his dying mother he once again finds himself unable to share who he truly is. Living in a small town and being the son of the town hero Peter never felt comfortable with the idea of folks knowing that he's gay. Joining the Army further cemented his need to keep quiet.
When Peter meets his mother's caregiver, Robin, he's immediately drawn to the quiet caring man. As they spend time together their mutual attraction quickly turns physical. But will Peter's unwillingness to 'come out' end their relationship before it barely has a chance to start?
This is another beautifully written story from ZA Maxfield with a simple but well thought out plot. It's a story of family and love, of endings and new beginnings and it really touched my heart. Both Peter and Robin are well developed and likable characters and held my attention throughout the story. The supporting characters, especially Peter's aunt and mother, were wonderful additions to the story.
I really enjoyed reading this short story. ZA Maxfield has a great ability to make her characters so real and believable that the reader can't help but be drawn to them and this story was no exception. Great characters and an entertaining storyline equals a happy reader. I only wish that I knew what happens to Peter when he goes back to work. With his relationship with Robin settled and he's finally comfortable with himself the question of his job and future stuck with me.
Until We Meet Once More by Josh Lanyon (5 of 5 stars)
The third story in this anthology is the only one that actually takes place within a military setting. Army Ranger Captain Vic Black is on active duty in Afghanistan when he is sent on a mission to rescue Navy Seal Lt. Commander Sean Kennedy. While en route to the rescue site Vic looks back on his relationship with Sean during their days at the academy. Using flashbacks the author tells us the story of these two men from their first sexual explorations to their eventual separation.
Mr Lanyon's vividly descriptive writing makes this story seem almost like an action movie.
Vic was already a hundred meters down the steep, rocky slope when he saw the Chinook wheeling away like a great black bird. It silhouetted briefly against the enormous red moon and then was gone.
The mortar crew continued to take petulant shots at it until it had vanished, the sound echoing off the stone walls, and then rolling away into a silence as absolute as the grave.
This is a well written, fast paced and exciting story. Aside from the flashbacks the entire story takes place in a very short amount of time so there is no real character growth but even so I was totally engaged in Vic's story. The climactic ending when Vic and Sean are running for their lives and the last scene where they admit their feelings for each other were riveting. This story was a great way to finish of this anthology.
Carson Crosby is a lonely young man still reeling from the unexpected and tragic death of his brother while on active duty in the Army. Working in a food bank one day he meets a man named China who trips all his buttons. The big handsome Army man appeals to him but having just had a bad experience with a big bully he's in no hurry to deal with another big macho man. As luck would have it China helps him deal with the guy who's been giving him problems and they decide to spend some time together.
This story was the weakest of the three in this anthology. A lot of it was in the editing. For some reason it contains several spelling and grammatical errors not present in the other two and that really threw me out of the story every time I came up on it. Also, I felt the relationship between Carson and China was rushed and the fact that there was no condom used when they had sex for the first time after just meeting didn't work for me.
However even with those issues I still enjoyed the story. I liked Carson and China, both are good men who've experienced tragedy in their lives and are coping as best they can. There was a bit of misunderstanding in their relationship which was quickly resolved and the ending leaves the reader with hope that these two will have a happier future together.
Jumping Off Places by ZA Maxfield (4 of 5 stars)
When Peter Hsu comes home to be with his dying mother he once again finds himself unable to share who he truly is. Living in a small town and being the son of the town hero Peter never felt comfortable with the idea of folks knowing that he's gay. Joining the Army further cemented his need to keep quiet.
When Peter meets his mother's caregiver, Robin, he's immediately drawn to the quiet caring man. As they spend time together their mutual attraction quickly turns physical. But will Peter's unwillingness to 'come out' end their relationship before it barely has a chance to start?
This is another beautifully written story from ZA Maxfield with a simple but well thought out plot. It's a story of family and love, of endings and new beginnings and it really touched my heart. Both Peter and Robin are well developed and likable characters and held my attention throughout the story. The supporting characters, especially Peter's aunt and mother, were wonderful additions to the story.
I really enjoyed reading this short story. ZA Maxfield has a great ability to make her characters so real and believable that the reader can't help but be drawn to them and this story was no exception. Great characters and an entertaining storyline equals a happy reader. I only wish that I knew what happens to Peter when he goes back to work. With his relationship with Robin settled and he's finally comfortable with himself the question of his job and future stuck with me.
Until We Meet Once More by Josh Lanyon (5 of 5 stars)
The third story in this anthology is the only one that actually takes place within a military setting. Army Ranger Captain Vic Black is on active duty in Afghanistan when he is sent on a mission to rescue Navy Seal Lt. Commander Sean Kennedy. While en route to the rescue site Vic looks back on his relationship with Sean during their days at the academy. Using flashbacks the author tells us the story of these two men from their first sexual explorations to their eventual separation.
Mr Lanyon's vividly descriptive writing makes this story seem almost like an action movie.
Vic was already a hundred meters down the steep, rocky slope when he saw the Chinook wheeling away like a great black bird. It silhouetted briefly against the enormous red moon and then was gone.
The mortar crew continued to take petulant shots at it until it had vanished, the sound echoing off the stone walls, and then rolling away into a silence as absolute as the grave.
This is a well written, fast paced and exciting story. Aside from the flashbacks the entire story takes place in a very short amount of time so there is no real character growth but even so I was totally engaged in Vic's story. The climactic ending when Vic and Sean are running for their lives and the last scene where they admit their feelings for each other were riveting. This story was a great way to finish of this anthology.
January 6, 2013
Three stories, three totally different reviews.
Designated Target: (2 stars): This story had great potential, but the writing and lack of editing was so over-the-top I could not help but be pulled out of the story...over and over and over again. I usually have a touch of patience for minor editing issues, BUT there was no editing at all...none...and if there was then shame on the editor and author for allowing this rough draft to make it to print.
Jumping off Places: (3 stars): An okay story about a young soldier coming home to visit his dying mother. She is being cared for by a loving Jamaican man who helps him come to terms with who he is, while his mom is still alive. Not a bad story, it just wasn't my cuppa.
Until we Meet Once More (4.5 stars): I LOVED THIS ONE!!! This story was the perfect ending to this anthology. Without it, this book would have gone into my "worst book ever" pile. Sean and Vic were roomies (and more)in the Naval Academy until a misunderstanding, career and fear split them apart....until Vic is sent on a rescue mission to save Sean. I loved it...an awesome story!
Designated Target: (2 stars): This story had great potential, but the writing and lack of editing was so over-the-top I could not help but be pulled out of the story...over and over and over again. I usually have a touch of patience for minor editing issues, BUT there was no editing at all...none...and if there was then shame on the editor and author for allowing this rough draft to make it to print.
Jumping off Places: (3 stars): An okay story about a young soldier coming home to visit his dying mother. She is being cared for by a loving Jamaican man who helps him come to terms with who he is, while his mom is still alive. Not a bad story, it just wasn't my cuppa.
Until we Meet Once More (4.5 stars): I LOVED THIS ONE!!! This story was the perfect ending to this anthology. Without it, this book would have gone into my "worst book ever" pile. Sean and Vic were roomies (and more)in the Naval Academy until a misunderstanding, career and fear split them apart....until Vic is sent on a rescue mission to save Sean. I loved it...an awesome story!
September 13, 2018
Re-read, stumbled upon this on my kindle, don't recall it.
Not the greatest, would only recommend the third story.
Designated Target by Laura Baumbach
In need of a major edit.
Doesn't work. Carson is clever, beautiful, capable, but also delicate and in need of rescuing. China is big and calm; his only reason not giving his purpose there immediately was to add pages and tears to the story. Emphasis on him doing his duty but the story was weak so it didn't inspire the respect it should.
Jumping Off Places by Z.A. Maxfield
Main character is odd and impossible to relate to, while he does get a little more human his introduction is hard to get past. Setting is uncomfortable and off-kilter as though the author tried to include too much in a short story. The heavy focus is on 'solider boy's' dying mother and everything around that felt unbalanced. Never got to grips with Peter (just had to check his name!)
There's a little drama at the end that was almost panto.
Until We Meet Once More by Josh Lanyon
An actual on active duty story. Stronger feel to this one, it did seem a little technical at times with constraint of being a short story. A lot happens in ten years, but who knows, it would have been nice to see how things turn out but the story ends on a highly optimistic note. This could have made a longer story, it had more presence, but considering the two that went before isn't enough to save the anthol.
Not the greatest, would only recommend the third story.
Designated Target by Laura Baumbach
In need of a major edit.
Doesn't work. Carson is clever, beautiful, capable, but also delicate and in need of rescuing. China is big and calm; his only reason not giving his purpose there immediately was to add pages and tears to the story. Emphasis on him doing his duty but the story was weak so it didn't inspire the respect it should.
Jumping Off Places by Z.A. Maxfield
Main character is odd and impossible to relate to, while he does get a little more human his introduction is hard to get past. Setting is uncomfortable and off-kilter as though the author tried to include too much in a short story. The heavy focus is on 'solider boy's' dying mother and everything around that felt unbalanced. Never got to grips with Peter (just had to check his name!)
There's a little drama at the end that was almost panto.
Until We Meet Once More by Josh Lanyon
An actual on active duty story. Stronger feel to this one, it did seem a little technical at times with constraint of being a short story. A lot happens in ten years, but who knows, it would have been nice to see how things turn out but the story ends on a highly optimistic note. This could have made a longer story, it had more presence, but considering the two that went before isn't enough to save the anthol.
January 7, 2013
Three of my favorite authors--one anthology--who could ask for more. Each of the stories dealt with military men--either returning home from war--about to go back into the fray or in the thick of it. Don't Ask, Don't Tell was the thematic core to each of these stories and I truly loved them all.
In Designated Target by Laura Baumbach, Carson is still reeling form the news of his brother's death when he meets a mysterious military man and instantly falls for him. When he comes to understand the secret that China carries, Carson must decide if he can truly build a relationship with the man who may have been responsible for his brother's death. I loved these two characters---the tenderness of the story--the grief and new beginnings intermingled to make for one very beautiful love story.
Jumping Off Places by Z.A. Maxfield followed and delivered an incredibly hot and instant attraction between Peter, a military man home on leave to be with his dying mother and her nurse, Robin. Peter is deeply closeted and everyone who knows him is trying to convince him to speak with his mother before it is too late. But it is Robin who manages to unlock the fears and break down the walls around Peter's heart and give him the strength and courage to face all of his demons.
Finally, from Josh Lanyon one of my favorite shorts, Until We Meet Once More. The story of two men who met in the naval academy and fell hard for each other in an era of zero tolerance. In a brutally emotional ending they move on from each other only to be reunited in a rescue mission where one attempts to save the life of the other. In my book, no one does it better than Josh Lanyon--his characters leap off the page and firmly lodge themselves into your heart and mind. A taut little short story with a hopeful ending.
An excellent anthology overall--a must read for fans of these authors!
In Designated Target by Laura Baumbach, Carson is still reeling form the news of his brother's death when he meets a mysterious military man and instantly falls for him. When he comes to understand the secret that China carries, Carson must decide if he can truly build a relationship with the man who may have been responsible for his brother's death. I loved these two characters---the tenderness of the story--the grief and new beginnings intermingled to make for one very beautiful love story.
Jumping Off Places by Z.A. Maxfield followed and delivered an incredibly hot and instant attraction between Peter, a military man home on leave to be with his dying mother and her nurse, Robin. Peter is deeply closeted and everyone who knows him is trying to convince him to speak with his mother before it is too late. But it is Robin who manages to unlock the fears and break down the walls around Peter's heart and give him the strength and courage to face all of his demons.
Finally, from Josh Lanyon one of my favorite shorts, Until We Meet Once More. The story of two men who met in the naval academy and fell hard for each other in an era of zero tolerance. In a brutally emotional ending they move on from each other only to be reunited in a rescue mission where one attempts to save the life of the other. In my book, no one does it better than Josh Lanyon--his characters leap off the page and firmly lodge themselves into your heart and mind. A taut little short story with a hopeful ending.
An excellent anthology overall--a must read for fans of these authors!
August 21, 2010
3.5 stars
This review is only for Laura Baumbach's "Designated Target". I mean, I read Josh Lanyon's "Until We Meet Once More" last year, and I loved that one but I don't want to write review of something I read a year ago. I just got back to the Laura Baumbach's story, so that what I will commment.
Funny thing, people have reviews here about her story being unedited and no beta-proofing, which is odd because I have no problems of the grammar. Maybe I get the REVISED edition? English is not my native language so I may not even aware of it but I think I will notice poor editing.
HOWEVER, I must admit that the beginning of the story is a bit hard for me to jump into. I don't know why, like something of the story cannot be connected to my brain. I have difficulty to figure the scenes out. But about 1/4 of it, it picks up its pace and I find myself liking Carson and China, and there are few dialogs that made me smile because they're funny, and it also has enough angst. I would've given it 4 stars except that the beginning, I struggle so much, and it almost makes me stop reading altogether. Thus I reduce 0.5 stars
This review is only for Laura Baumbach's "Designated Target". I mean, I read Josh Lanyon's "Until We Meet Once More" last year, and I loved that one but I don't want to write review of something I read a year ago. I just got back to the Laura Baumbach's story, so that what I will commment.
Funny thing, people have reviews here about her story being unedited and no beta-proofing, which is odd because I have no problems of the grammar. Maybe I get the REVISED edition? English is not my native language so I may not even aware of it but I think I will notice poor editing.
HOWEVER, I must admit that the beginning of the story is a bit hard for me to jump into. I don't know why, like something of the story cannot be connected to my brain. I have difficulty to figure the scenes out. But about 1/4 of it, it picks up its pace and I find myself liking Carson and China, and there are few dialogs that made me smile because they're funny, and it also has enough angst. I would've given it 4 stars except that the beginning, I struggle so much, and it almost makes me stop reading altogether. Thus I reduce 0.5 stars
January 11, 2013
For starters, I am not a fan of anthologies and don't generally read them.
Designated Target - Laura Baumbach - 2 stars - I had a difficult time getting into this story. There were a lot editing issues that distracted me, but mainly, I just couldn't get a feel for these characters. It seemed really odd that China would wait so long to tell Carson that he knew his brother and had details about his death.
Jumping off Places - Z.A. Maxfield - 3 stars - This one was a little better story about a soldier coming home to visit his dying mother. The man caring for her helps him come to terms with who he is, while his mom is still alive.
Until we Meet Once More - Josh Lanyon - 4 stars - Best of the three stories. Sean and Vic were roommates with benefits in the Naval Academy until a misunderstanding, career changes and fear split them apart. Vic is sent on a rescue mission to save Sean, and things turn around.
Designated Target - Laura Baumbach - 2 stars - I had a difficult time getting into this story. There were a lot editing issues that distracted me, but mainly, I just couldn't get a feel for these characters. It seemed really odd that China would wait so long to tell Carson that he knew his brother and had details about his death.
Jumping off Places - Z.A. Maxfield - 3 stars - This one was a little better story about a soldier coming home to visit his dying mother. The man caring for her helps him come to terms with who he is, while his mom is still alive.
Until we Meet Once More - Josh Lanyon - 4 stars - Best of the three stories. Sean and Vic were roommates with benefits in the Naval Academy until a misunderstanding, career changes and fear split them apart. Vic is sent on a rescue mission to save Sean, and things turn around.
April 12, 2020
5 stars only to Ms. Lanyon
September 18, 2011
My review is posted on Joyfully Reviewed: http://www.joyfullyreviewed.com/new-r...
“Designated Target” by Laura Baumbach
Carson’s life has been a lonely one since his brother died overseas two months ago. It’s Thanksgiving and Carson is helping out at the local food bank when a sexy stranger catches his eye. China might be acting little odd, but when the muscled Army Ranger saves Carson from another attack by a jerk who thinks he owns him, Carson decides to give China a chance. But just as they start a relationship, Carson discovers China’s been hiding something important from him. Something that could shatter any feelings Carson has for the other man.
Sometimes, people just click, and that’s the case in Laura Baumbach’s “Designated Target.” It’s easy to fall for Carson and China, as Ms. Baumbach has a talent for creating characters you grow instantly attached to. I felt for Carson; his loneliness and frustration were a palpable presence in the story. He’s not a strong Army Ranger like China, but he doesn’t let anyone push him around, ever, which I liked about him. China, in turn, has a certain masculine grace to his actions, which is definitely appealing. All in all, “Designated Target” is a very enjoyable story.
“Jumping Off Places” by Z.A. Maxfield
The last thing Peter wants to do is return to his hometown. But with his mother dying, he really has no choice. What Peter does want is for people to think of him as being just like his dad. To him, that means he shouldn’t come out of the closet. Then he meets Robin, his mother’s caretaker. Attraction burns bright and hot between them, but Robin refuses to be Peter’s dirty little secret. Will Peter risk his career and his mother’s love to have a shot with Robin?
“Jumping Off Places” blends the joy of newfound love with the sorrow of loss. It’s not a “happy” story, but Z.A. Maxfield makes it a strong one. Peter and Robin bring out the best in each other, and Robin doesn’t stand for Peter running away from his problems, something Peter needs. The third important character in “Jumping Off Places,” Peter’s mother, makes as big an impression as the tale’s heroes. There’s warmth and humor in her and her love for both Peter and Robin shines through even the darkest moments of the story. I can’t say I finished “Jumping Off Places” with a smile on my face, but Ms. Maxfield is a very talented author and I appreciated the artistry of her writing.
“Until We Meet Once More” by Josh Lanyon
Army Ranger Captain Vic Black is on a mission to rescue a Navy SEAL in Afghanistan. This wouldn’t be an out of the ordinary assignment, except for the fact that the SEAL in question is Lt. Commander Sean Kennedy, the man Vic loved and lost twelve years before, when they were at Annapolis. Vic can’t let his emotions enter into this operation, but there’s no way he’ll stop looking until he finds Sean.
Josh Lanyon winds up this anthology with an adrenaline rush of a read. “Until We Meet Once More” mixes flashbacks of Vic and Sean’s past relationship with their present-day fight for survival in Afghanistan. I absolutely loved seeing Vic and Sean’s days at the Naval Academy. The sweetness and sexiness of their time together before their relationship falls apart is vital to their present day connection and to understanding each man. Also key to learning about them is the reasons behind their breakup. Both knew from the start that they were career military and Vic feared coming out and what would do to his career. Sean, on the other hand, was idealistic and willing to take a chance. Mr. Lanyon establishes these elements in the past because the present doesn’t leave much time for introspection. Vic and Sean are fighting for their lives and the amount of military detail Mr. Lanyon so seamlessly waves into “Until We Meet Once More” just adds to the realism of the story. There isn’t time for romance when you’re outrunning the Taliban, but that doesn’t dim the power of Sean and Vic’s reunion. The pair’s love story is understated and it works beautifully, making “Until We Meet Once More” an unforgettable read.
Because of the Brave honors soldiers in a way that’s powerful in its restraint. The men in Because of the Brave are all people you’d be proud to know and that makes the anthology special. With stories from Laura Baumbach, Z.A. Maxfield, and Josh Lanyon, three luminary talents in the world of male/male romance, you won’t want to miss Because of the Brave .
“Designated Target” by Laura Baumbach
Carson’s life has been a lonely one since his brother died overseas two months ago. It’s Thanksgiving and Carson is helping out at the local food bank when a sexy stranger catches his eye. China might be acting little odd, but when the muscled Army Ranger saves Carson from another attack by a jerk who thinks he owns him, Carson decides to give China a chance. But just as they start a relationship, Carson discovers China’s been hiding something important from him. Something that could shatter any feelings Carson has for the other man.
Sometimes, people just click, and that’s the case in Laura Baumbach’s “Designated Target.” It’s easy to fall for Carson and China, as Ms. Baumbach has a talent for creating characters you grow instantly attached to. I felt for Carson; his loneliness and frustration were a palpable presence in the story. He’s not a strong Army Ranger like China, but he doesn’t let anyone push him around, ever, which I liked about him. China, in turn, has a certain masculine grace to his actions, which is definitely appealing. All in all, “Designated Target” is a very enjoyable story.
“Jumping Off Places” by Z.A. Maxfield
The last thing Peter wants to do is return to his hometown. But with his mother dying, he really has no choice. What Peter does want is for people to think of him as being just like his dad. To him, that means he shouldn’t come out of the closet. Then he meets Robin, his mother’s caretaker. Attraction burns bright and hot between them, but Robin refuses to be Peter’s dirty little secret. Will Peter risk his career and his mother’s love to have a shot with Robin?
“Jumping Off Places” blends the joy of newfound love with the sorrow of loss. It’s not a “happy” story, but Z.A. Maxfield makes it a strong one. Peter and Robin bring out the best in each other, and Robin doesn’t stand for Peter running away from his problems, something Peter needs. The third important character in “Jumping Off Places,” Peter’s mother, makes as big an impression as the tale’s heroes. There’s warmth and humor in her and her love for both Peter and Robin shines through even the darkest moments of the story. I can’t say I finished “Jumping Off Places” with a smile on my face, but Ms. Maxfield is a very talented author and I appreciated the artistry of her writing.
“Until We Meet Once More” by Josh Lanyon
Army Ranger Captain Vic Black is on a mission to rescue a Navy SEAL in Afghanistan. This wouldn’t be an out of the ordinary assignment, except for the fact that the SEAL in question is Lt. Commander Sean Kennedy, the man Vic loved and lost twelve years before, when they were at Annapolis. Vic can’t let his emotions enter into this operation, but there’s no way he’ll stop looking until he finds Sean.
Josh Lanyon winds up this anthology with an adrenaline rush of a read. “Until We Meet Once More” mixes flashbacks of Vic and Sean’s past relationship with their present-day fight for survival in Afghanistan. I absolutely loved seeing Vic and Sean’s days at the Naval Academy. The sweetness and sexiness of their time together before their relationship falls apart is vital to their present day connection and to understanding each man. Also key to learning about them is the reasons behind their breakup. Both knew from the start that they were career military and Vic feared coming out and what would do to his career. Sean, on the other hand, was idealistic and willing to take a chance. Mr. Lanyon establishes these elements in the past because the present doesn’t leave much time for introspection. Vic and Sean are fighting for their lives and the amount of military detail Mr. Lanyon so seamlessly waves into “Until We Meet Once More” just adds to the realism of the story. There isn’t time for romance when you’re outrunning the Taliban, but that doesn’t dim the power of Sean and Vic’s reunion. The pair’s love story is understated and it works beautifully, making “Until We Meet Once More” an unforgettable read.
Because of the Brave honors soldiers in a way that’s powerful in its restraint. The men in Because of the Brave are all people you’d be proud to know and that makes the anthology special. With stories from Laura Baumbach, Z.A. Maxfield, and Josh Lanyon, three luminary talents in the world of male/male romance, you won’t want to miss Because of the Brave .
January 26, 2015
Because of the Brave comprises three stories which share a common topic: Military and commitment.
- The first story, Designated Target by Laura Baumbach tells us about Carson, who is not in his finest moment: He’s just lost his soldier brother Jim, his last date sent him to emergency room, and he’s facing a lonely Thanksgiving. When China, a mysterious and handsome stranger, seems to take interest in him, Carson thinks it is too good to be true, but he needs comfort and gives in to the strong attraction. But China is hiding something, and maybe he is not as good as he seems to be…
A really nice story about forgiveness and redemption. 4 stars
- In Jumping of Places by ZA Maxfield we meet deeply closeted Peter Hsu, who returns to his home town to attend his mum’s death bed. When he meets Robin, his mother caregiver, the attraction is immediate. But Robin refuses to be Peter’s dirty secret, and Peter cannot bring himself to reveal his secret, fearing to endanger his position in the army and his dying mother’s acceptance.
Another excellent story, full of anguish and pain, about the conflict between expectations and self-acceptance. 4 stars
- Until We Meet Once Moore, by Josh Lanyon, tells us about how Army Ranger Captain Vic Black lost his lover fifteen years ago, when he was unable to openly commit, thus risking both their careers. The second chance comes when he finds himself in charge of rescuing a lost navy seal in Afghanistan, Lt. Commander Sean Kennedy, the man he has always loved.
A beautiful story about true love and second chances. 4.5 stars
All in all, I did enjoy the book. The only drawback is that I would love to know more about all the characters. There is not HEA, but a HFN, as all the soldiers go back to the army to their deployment, so we do not really know what happens after. And I would love to know. I always want more.
- The first story, Designated Target by Laura Baumbach tells us about Carson, who is not in his finest moment: He’s just lost his soldier brother Jim, his last date sent him to emergency room, and he’s facing a lonely Thanksgiving. When China, a mysterious and handsome stranger, seems to take interest in him, Carson thinks it is too good to be true, but he needs comfort and gives in to the strong attraction. But China is hiding something, and maybe he is not as good as he seems to be…
A really nice story about forgiveness and redemption. 4 stars
- In Jumping of Places by ZA Maxfield we meet deeply closeted Peter Hsu, who returns to his home town to attend his mum’s death bed. When he meets Robin, his mother caregiver, the attraction is immediate. But Robin refuses to be Peter’s dirty secret, and Peter cannot bring himself to reveal his secret, fearing to endanger his position in the army and his dying mother’s acceptance.
Another excellent story, full of anguish and pain, about the conflict between expectations and self-acceptance. 4 stars
- Until We Meet Once Moore, by Josh Lanyon, tells us about how Army Ranger Captain Vic Black lost his lover fifteen years ago, when he was unable to openly commit, thus risking both their careers. The second chance comes when he finds himself in charge of rescuing a lost navy seal in Afghanistan, Lt. Commander Sean Kennedy, the man he has always loved.
A beautiful story about true love and second chances. 4.5 stars
All in all, I did enjoy the book. The only drawback is that I would love to know more about all the characters. There is not HEA, but a HFN, as all the soldiers go back to the army to their deployment, so we do not really know what happens after. And I would love to know. I always want more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2011
This three-fer anthology combines the talents of three well-known and loved authors: Josh Lanyon, Z.A. Maxfield and Laura Baumbach. Each story told is as different as the author writing them is; each story holds a world of worth and not just from the collective message or the contribution to the cause.
Laura Baumbach's Designated Target is my personal favorite of the three. It holds a poignancy that touches the soul. The mood is set in the bleakness of an open door mission food line. A young man's brother is killed in action in Afghanistan and he still struggles with his loss. A soldier believing he was responsible for his death seeks forgiveness and receives so much more as the couple finds comfort and hope together.
Z.A. Maxfield's Jumping Off Places is about a soldier on the cusp of losing his commission, returns home to attend to his dying mother. He relives his past growing up in a small mid-western town in the shadow of his "heroic" father; the man he never knew and the ghost he could never live up to. In his mother and her nurse, he finds forgiveness to give and the grace to receive, and the will to let go.
Josh Lanyon's Until We Meet Once More throws the reader into immediate battle, struggling in the dark and surrounded by the enemy. Friends are close, but might not be in time. The story reunites one-time lovers, their past told in flashbacks; their present in a running battle against time, dangerous and determined enemies and a darken landscape; their future in tentative words and hidden promises.
Laura Baumbach's Designated Target is my personal favorite of the three. It holds a poignancy that touches the soul. The mood is set in the bleakness of an open door mission food line. A young man's brother is killed in action in Afghanistan and he still struggles with his loss. A soldier believing he was responsible for his death seeks forgiveness and receives so much more as the couple finds comfort and hope together.
Z.A. Maxfield's Jumping Off Places is about a soldier on the cusp of losing his commission, returns home to attend to his dying mother. He relives his past growing up in a small mid-western town in the shadow of his "heroic" father; the man he never knew and the ghost he could never live up to. In his mother and her nurse, he finds forgiveness to give and the grace to receive, and the will to let go.
Josh Lanyon's Until We Meet Once More throws the reader into immediate battle, struggling in the dark and surrounded by the enemy. Friends are close, but might not be in time. The story reunites one-time lovers, their past told in flashbacks; their present in a running battle against time, dangerous and determined enemies and a darken landscape; their future in tentative words and hidden promises.
March 4, 2010
The Baumbach story was shit. It could have been good but there was no proofreading or beta-ing done, and so it was crap. Incomplete feeling, unpolished crap. And Baumbach is one of the authors I always like! Very disappointing.
*
The Z.A. Maxfield was OK. It was well written and original. Sweet.
***
The Lanyon fic was gold, but then I really love his writing. It's a mark of a good writer to be able to deliver such solid characters and such an action filled story in so few pages.
*****
Although the majority of the book was taken up by the first fic, ~50 cringing pages of typos, and the best only ~30 pgs, those 30 pages made it worth it.
It was also good to read stories where we can see how DADT has a negative impact on our troops, who risk their necks everyday so we can live in peace.
*
The Z.A. Maxfield was OK. It was well written and original. Sweet.
***
The Lanyon fic was gold, but then I really love his writing. It's a mark of a good writer to be able to deliver such solid characters and such an action filled story in so few pages.
*****
Although the majority of the book was taken up by the first fic, ~50 cringing pages of typos, and the best only ~30 pgs, those 30 pages made it worth it.
It was also good to read stories where we can see how DADT has a negative impact on our troops, who risk their necks everyday so we can live in peace.
September 13, 2010
in general, i'm not always a fan of anthologies, sometimes it feels like because the stories are short the characters aren't really developed, but I didn't have that issue with this one. I really enjoyed the stories by Baumbach and Maxfield, that last one (Lanyon) was only so-so for me (mostly because of the one character and the hard time I had grasping that he would do his entire undergrad at the Naval Academy and then go Army...it is ridiculously hard to do a transfer like that and normally something you can only do after serving out your initial committment...but that is just a Navy thing for me)...other than that - I'll def. be seeking out books by all authors again, likely full length ones to see how they can further develop characters
January 18, 2011
One of the best m/m anthologies, all stories were worth reading for and despite similar themes gave of very different feelings.
Designated Target by Laura Baumbach 3.75 stars. It was a very Laura-like story, enjoyable, plus I loved the protagonists in this one.
Jumping Off Places by ZA Maxfield 4 stars. Interracial! Yes! Plus a "nurse" topping an army guy? Wooh.
Until We Meet Once More by Josh Lanyon 5+ stars. A very short short story, and still managed to get me fully invested in the characters and made me fell in love with them, and their romance.
Designated Target by Laura Baumbach 3.75 stars. It was a very Laura-like story, enjoyable, plus I loved the protagonists in this one.
Jumping Off Places by ZA Maxfield 4 stars. Interracial! Yes! Plus a "nurse" topping an army guy? Wooh.
Until We Meet Once More by Josh Lanyon 5+ stars. A very short short story, and still managed to get me fully invested in the characters and made me fell in love with them, and their romance.
October 16, 2009
This was a really great anthology. I mean, I'm a sucker for a good soldier story, but I also like all three authors a great deal, the stories were all compelling and interesting, and my money went to a legal defense fun for soldiers affected by Don't Ask Don't Tell.
It loses a star for being just riddled with typos, which is a shame because I found them really distracting.
It loses a star for being just riddled with typos, which is a shame because I found them really distracting.
October 29, 2010
I've only read Josh Lanyon's Until We Meet Once More and I liked it very much. The reason for the 3 stars (in lieu of 4) is that, as usual, for me short stories have a basic problem: they are TOO SHORT!!!
September 28, 2016
Only read Jumping Off Places by ZA Maxfield. Kinda wished there was just a tiny bit more at the end of it to show what happened to them and Peter's job and everything. Amazing read for what it was though.
November 9, 2009
Designted Target by Laura Baumbach: 4 stars
Until We Meet Once More by Josh Lanyon: 4 stars
Jumping Off Places by Z.A. Maxfield: 4 stars
Until We Meet Once More by Josh Lanyon: 4 stars
Jumping Off Places by Z.A. Maxfield: 4 stars
June 6, 2011
Josh Lanyon's inclusion in this anthology, Until We Meet Once More is one of my favorite short stories by him.
November 15, 2010
Stunning book. Just amazing.
April 22, 2011
This three-story collection about being military and gay was very, very well-written. Sadly, the editing was a bit sloppy on the first two stories. Even with those editorial issues, I’d recommend it.
May 12, 2011
Great collection of short stories!
April 15, 2012
I'm not typically a fan of anthologies, but I really loved everything about the stories contained in this one. Additionally, the stories were long enough to sink my teeth into. Loved it!
July 30, 2009
I only read 2/3 stories in this book, but the two I read were great.
Read
October 9, 2011First 2 stories are finished.... One day I'll finish the third.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews