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Between Ghosts
WINNER of the 2017 EPIC Award for Contemporary Romance
In 2003, journalist Connor Regan marched through London to add his voice to a million others, decrying the imminent invasion of Iraq. Eight months later, his brother, James, was killed in action in Mosul.
Three years on, Connor finds himself bound for Iraq to embed with an elite SAS team. He sets his boots on the ground looking for closure and solace—anything to ease the pain of his brother’s death. Instead he finds Sergeant Nathan Thompson.
Nat Thompson is a veteran commander, hardened by years of combat and haunted by the loss of his best friend. Being lumbered with a civilian is a hassle Nat doesn’t need, and he vows to do nothing more than keep the hapless hack from harm’s way.
But Connor proves far from hapless, and too compelling to ignore for long. He walks straight through the steel wall Nat’s built around his heart, and when their mission puts him in mortal danger, Nat must lay old ghosts to rest and fight to the death for the only man he’s ever truly loved.
In 2003, journalist Connor Regan marched through London to add his voice to a million others, decrying the imminent invasion of Iraq. Eight months later, his brother, James, was killed in action in Mosul.
Three years on, Connor finds himself bound for Iraq to embed with an elite SAS team. He sets his boots on the ground looking for closure and solace—anything to ease the pain of his brother’s death. Instead he finds Sergeant Nathan Thompson.
Nat Thompson is a veteran commander, hardened by years of combat and haunted by the loss of his best friend. Being lumbered with a civilian is a hassle Nat doesn’t need, and he vows to do nothing more than keep the hapless hack from harm’s way.
But Connor proves far from hapless, and too compelling to ignore for long. He walks straight through the steel wall Nat’s built around his heart, and when their mission puts him in mortal danger, Nat must lay old ghosts to rest and fight to the death for the only man he’s ever truly loved.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 14, 2016
65 people are currently reading
1682 people want to read
About the author
Garrett Leigh
94 books2,399 followersShe/Her
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 311 reviews
March 15, 2016
Hurt/Healing/Comfort between military men? SIGN ME UP!
Connor Regan is a journalist who lost his brother, James, when he was killed in combat during a mission in Mosul, Iraq. Conner's brother was part of an elite and very secretive team in the British Army called SAS, Special Air Reserve. (As a side note, when I searched for images to make my pretty cast collage above, almost all pictures of real SAS members have their faces blurred out.) Because of the secret nature of the mission, Conner never found out how or why his brother died.
Determined to get to the bottom of his brother's death, Conner spends a year preparing himself physically and emotionally to join the SAS unit as a member of the media. He joins the current SAS unit headed by Sergeant Nathan Thompson in Iraq after his year-long preparation.
Battle-worn veteran Nat is also in mourning, after having lost his best friend, Pogo, in the war. He blames himself for Pogo's death and feels dead inside. When Connor shows up, his emotions start to come alive again.
The chemistry and connection between Nat and Connor is wonderful. I am happy to report that the military mission, while being the main subject of the book, is littered with an emotional connection between these men. A lot of time with military themed M/M romances, you only get one. There wasn't a huge amount of sex here, but when these men were able to secret themselves away from the unit, is was hot and passionate.
I do have to say that the ending got a little soap-operay and unrealistic.
The ending didn't really match the mood of the first part of the book, but I totally rolled with it and was happy for the boys and their HEA.
M/M Military romance fans, this one is for you! Recommended!
Galley copy of Between Ghosts provided by Riptide Publishing in exchange of an honest review.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
July 30, 2021
This book completely blew me away. I normally lose interest when there is too much military stuff, or too much anything that isn’t the romance, but something about this book completely hooked me. It was heavy on the military and light on the romance, but yet I needed to know everything about Irak, and the life of the people and the soldiers in that horrible war zone.
Nat and Connor? I loved them. Loved everything about their romance, the angst, the passion, the fear of losing the other, the fear of falling in love in an impossible situation. So many feelings.
It wasn’t perfect, but it was real and it got me in the feelings. I wished for a bit more relationship development, a bit more detail in the situation resolution, I rarely say this, but maybe an extra 50 pages in the book would have been better, the ending was quite abrupt.
But I loved them.
So much that I went to reread their scenes in Soul to keep, looking for more Nat and Connor.
Nat and Connor? I loved them. Loved everything about their romance, the angst, the passion, the fear of losing the other, the fear of falling in love in an impossible situation. So many feelings.
It wasn’t perfect, but it was real and it got me in the feelings. I wished for a bit more relationship development, a bit more detail in the situation resolution, I rarely say this, but maybe an extra 50 pages in the book would have been better, the ending was quite abrupt.
But I loved them.
So much that I went to reread their scenes in Soul to keep, looking for more Nat and Connor.
August 3, 2016
I love Garrett Leigh and I liked the book. But I wasn’t feeling this.
I read it with pleasure because I love her style and her writing, her characters are interesting and more than they seem at first sight. She’s engaging and that’s why I kept reading. But the love story lacked passion, IMO.
Connor is a journalist, or a hack, as people keep calling him. His brother James died during service three years ago and he still has questions. He knows little to nothing about how James died, but what eats him away is whether he had been supporting enough, whether his brother knew that Connor loved him and worried about him. Because he’s been fearing he didn’t pay enough attention to James as he should have. He applies to a time with some SAS soldiers in Middle East. To see how he lived, what he thought about, and why he did all he did.
Nat is a SAS soldier and a veteran one. He has seen too many people die, too many mates die. He claims he doesn’t feel anything, that he doesn’t care about what happens around him. But Connor notices it’s all a façade, and soon he’s head over heels for him, wondering what he is thinking, what he is doing, worrying about his well-being and obsessing over him and his sex-appeal.
At this point I feared it would be the typical don’t-stick-your-nose-in-our-business relationship. Because if you get a secretive soldier and a journalists who inquires about everything he’s doing and how and why and when, the normal result would be in exasperation from both sides. That happened for a short while, but Nat soon discovers that Connor is in fact a nice person, and he develops a fondness that turns into friendship, and from the chemistry there is only one step to form a deeper and more significative bond.
But are they ready for that?
My problem here is that I didn’t feel any chemistry, nor sexual nor any other kind. There was not any thought about “wow, this could completely work, I wanna see it happening” in me. I must say their friendship is believable, but I just couldn’t understand what they saw in each other romantically speaking. The first half of the book I was reading it all with a little sense of resignation. I was the whole way comparing it to Slide and Rare, my favorite books of this author, and that’s not fair. They are completely different stories but I still resented I couldn’t perceive any spark from Nat and Connor.
Don’t get me wrong, the plot is solid and very well-built. I was very invested in getting to know their day-to-day routine and the conflicts they have to solve during their stay in Iraq and the hunt on one of the most wanted terrorists in the country. It’s a perspective I don’t get to see often in the books I read, and I have no background to say whether it reflects a reality or not, but it rang true to me, and that’s enough for me to get fully into a story.
Somewhere along the point I could connect with the characters, but it was very deep into the story when I felt a real feeling between them. It was quiet and I almost didn’t realize something was different in the air. It just came and I felt ansty about their love to last forever. The end is beautiful and gives a decent closure. But I must add that I could see it coming, that about. Not a big surprise and I a little disappointed because the author could have known this and decided to be less obvious, but she didn’t. In spite of it all, it was a good book, and it was worthy of my time.
****
***Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
I read it with pleasure because I love her style and her writing, her characters are interesting and more than they seem at first sight. She’s engaging and that’s why I kept reading. But the love story lacked passion, IMO.
Connor is a journalist, or a hack, as people keep calling him. His brother James died during service three years ago and he still has questions. He knows little to nothing about how James died, but what eats him away is whether he had been supporting enough, whether his brother knew that Connor loved him and worried about him. Because he’s been fearing he didn’t pay enough attention to James as he should have. He applies to a time with some SAS soldiers in Middle East. To see how he lived, what he thought about, and why he did all he did.
Nat is a SAS soldier and a veteran one. He has seen too many people die, too many mates die. He claims he doesn’t feel anything, that he doesn’t care about what happens around him. But Connor notices it’s all a façade, and soon he’s head over heels for him, wondering what he is thinking, what he is doing, worrying about his well-being and obsessing over him and his sex-appeal.
At this point I feared it would be the typical don’t-stick-your-nose-in-our-business relationship. Because if you get a secretive soldier and a journalists who inquires about everything he’s doing and how and why and when, the normal result would be in exasperation from both sides. That happened for a short while, but Nat soon discovers that Connor is in fact a nice person, and he develops a fondness that turns into friendship, and from the chemistry there is only one step to form a deeper and more significative bond.
But are they ready for that?
My problem here is that I didn’t feel any chemistry, nor sexual nor any other kind. There was not any thought about “wow, this could completely work, I wanna see it happening” in me. I must say their friendship is believable, but I just couldn’t understand what they saw in each other romantically speaking. The first half of the book I was reading it all with a little sense of resignation. I was the whole way comparing it to Slide and Rare, my favorite books of this author, and that’s not fair. They are completely different stories but I still resented I couldn’t perceive any spark from Nat and Connor.
Don’t get me wrong, the plot is solid and very well-built. I was very invested in getting to know their day-to-day routine and the conflicts they have to solve during their stay in Iraq and the hunt on one of the most wanted terrorists in the country. It’s a perspective I don’t get to see often in the books I read, and I have no background to say whether it reflects a reality or not, but it rang true to me, and that’s enough for me to get fully into a story.
Somewhere along the point I could connect with the characters, but it was very deep into the story when I felt a real feeling between them. It was quiet and I almost didn’t realize something was different in the air. It just came and I felt ansty about their love to last forever. The end is beautiful and gives a decent closure. But I must add that I could see it coming, that about. Not a big surprise and I a little disappointed because the author could have known this and decided to be less obvious, but she didn’t. In spite of it all, it was a good book, and it was worthy of my time.
****
***Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
January 7, 2016
4.5 Stars!
Military books can be hit or miss for me. Especially if they are too heavy on the military and too light on the romance. And while I think this one was a bit more focused on the military aspect, there was a enough romance to keep me satisfied.
I found the depiction of the military aspect to be very realistic. Or at least what I imagine being on a tour would be like. Needless to say, this wasn't a "sweet" romance. It was intense, it was gritty, it was at times bloody.
After the death of his brother, journalist Connor finds himself in Iraq with an elite SAS team. Nat is the leader of that team. Nat's a hardened solider. He's seen a lot and experienced a lot in his time.
I enjoyed the development of Connor and Nat's relationship. The stolen moments. The intensity of the environment and the situation they are in. The camaraderie between the team.
This was different from what I usually read, which I think made me appreciate it more.
It's light on the steam, which I suppose is to be expected given the setting. Their moments together are quick, at times rough, yet full of emotion.
This was a good one. Recommend.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Military books can be hit or miss for me. Especially if they are too heavy on the military and too light on the romance. And while I think this one was a bit more focused on the military aspect, there was a enough romance to keep me satisfied.
I found the depiction of the military aspect to be very realistic. Or at least what I imagine being on a tour would be like. Needless to say, this wasn't a "sweet" romance. It was intense, it was gritty, it was at times bloody.
After the death of his brother, journalist Connor finds himself in Iraq with an elite SAS team. Nat is the leader of that team. Nat's a hardened solider. He's seen a lot and experienced a lot in his time.
I enjoyed the development of Connor and Nat's relationship. The stolen moments. The intensity of the environment and the situation they are in. The camaraderie between the team.
This was different from what I usually read, which I think made me appreciate it more.
It's light on the steam, which I suppose is to be expected given the setting. Their moments together are quick, at times rough, yet full of emotion.
This was a good one. Recommend.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
November 26, 2024
Okay, this is a ...benefit of my own doubt 4 stars because like..... it was a 4-5 star book until 87% and then a solid one star ending because what the ACTUAL FUCK was that fucking ending. I'm so mad. (there are spoilers ahead if you read on)
Did the author run out of time or energy or get bullied to publish or something???
It felt SO UNDERWHELMING, and LAZY, and why did we go through this book for such a luke warm ending...... ugh. 😭
This story gets to it's peak, and just when you're about to cum from how intense everything is, it blue balls you with a fucking epilogue, that's 3 months FUCKING later, AND AN APOLOGY THAT IS WEAK AS A BABYS FUCKING HANDSHAKE. 😭😭😭😭😭
THE MAN NEEDED TO CRAWL THROUGH GLASS AND HOT COALS TO APOLOGISE FOR BEING A COCKHEAD AND WHAT DID HE DO????
He randomly stumbled upon the mc's address, after 3 months and gets on a train to go visit like they are just mates who didn't go through horrific war times, see wars travesties and fall inlove along the way...
(so what I'm hearing is... he wasn't wildly obsessing over finding the love of his life, and scanning the internet, and contacting his work place or doing LITERALLY ANYTHING TO RECONNECT FOR 3 FUCKING MONTHS????????)
Dumb.
Great book.
Dumb ending.
Dumb man.
(also, how long did Nat have to wait to go rescue Connor? Sure, it was probably the safest to wait... BUT HE WAS MEANT TO BE INLOVE??? WHERE WAS THE CRAZY MOMENT OF.... MOVE BITCH, OUT OF MY WAY, I NEED TO SAVE MY MAN, I LOVE HIM... ??? nope. we got like....... 2 days of waiting for back up or some shit. Lots of naps and daydreams before moving in later. no. no. absolutely not.)
(Oh, and the main side character died, and it was like...... Oh yeah, he died, ANYWAY LETS MOVE ON. His death meant nothing. wow.)
Did the author run out of time or energy or get bullied to publish or something???
It felt SO UNDERWHELMING, and LAZY, and why did we go through this book for such a luke warm ending...... ugh. 😭
This story gets to it's peak, and just when you're about to cum from how intense everything is, it blue balls you with a fucking epilogue, that's 3 months FUCKING later, AND AN APOLOGY THAT IS WEAK AS A BABYS FUCKING HANDSHAKE. 😭😭😭😭😭
THE MAN NEEDED TO CRAWL THROUGH GLASS AND HOT COALS TO APOLOGISE FOR BEING A COCKHEAD AND WHAT DID HE DO????
He randomly stumbled upon the mc's address, after 3 months and gets on a train to go visit like they are just mates who didn't go through horrific war times, see wars travesties and fall inlove along the way...
(so what I'm hearing is... he wasn't wildly obsessing over finding the love of his life, and scanning the internet, and contacting his work place or doing LITERALLY ANYTHING TO RECONNECT FOR 3 FUCKING MONTHS????????)
Dumb.
Great book.
Dumb ending.
Dumb man.
(also, how long did Nat have to wait to go rescue Connor? Sure, it was probably the safest to wait... BUT HE WAS MEANT TO BE INLOVE??? WHERE WAS THE CRAZY MOMENT OF.... MOVE BITCH, OUT OF MY WAY, I NEED TO SAVE MY MAN, I LOVE HIM... ??? nope. we got like....... 2 days of waiting for back up or some shit. Lots of naps and daydreams before moving in later. no. no. absolutely not.)
(Oh, and the main side character died, and it was like...... Oh yeah, he died, ANYWAY LETS MOVE ON. His death meant nothing. wow.)
November 21, 2024
I’ll be honest, a little part of me is always hesitant to go into any books in a military setting cause it’s hard to know if you are going to get a more realistic view of the atrocities of war or if you are going to get some over the top action movie shenanigans. Whilst definitely on the milder scale of war time horrors this book didn’t shy away from the harsh realities and I really appreciated that from it.
Connor is an investigative journalist, with pacifist tendencies, who ships out for Iraq to embed with a SAS team and write an account of the realities of the war and what is happening on the ground for the general public back in England. Simultaneously, Connor is also looking for understanding in the recent death of his brother, who was a soldier based in Mosul. Not long after landing Connor encounters the handsome Commander Nat Thompson and they quickly establish a close connection and bond.
I loved Connor and Nat together. The emotional and intimate connections forged in the pressure of war always has a special extra kick. Something about the desperation that comes from finding love in the high stakes bleak landscape and taking stolen moments made their chemistry extra hot.
Did any of the twists surprise me? Not really. Did that diminish my enjoyment of them in any way, shape or form? Absolutely not. I had a great time and I already know that this will be one of those comfort rereads for me.
My only mild complaint is that I wish it had a little more in the ending. The first 90% was so well paced- no complaints, but I wish we could have had a little more time with Connor and Nat at the end.
This is my first book by Garrett Leigh and I can definitely say that I’ll be reading more of her work.
Connor is an investigative journalist, with pacifist tendencies, who ships out for Iraq to embed with a SAS team and write an account of the realities of the war and what is happening on the ground for the general public back in England. Simultaneously, Connor is also looking for understanding in the recent death of his brother, who was a soldier based in Mosul. Not long after landing Connor encounters the handsome Commander Nat Thompson and they quickly establish a close connection and bond.
I loved Connor and Nat together. The emotional and intimate connections forged in the pressure of war always has a special extra kick. Something about the desperation that comes from finding love in the high stakes bleak landscape and taking stolen moments made their chemistry extra hot.
Did any of the twists surprise me? Not really. Did that diminish my enjoyment of them in any way, shape or form? Absolutely not. I had a great time and I already know that this will be one of those comfort rereads for me.
My only mild complaint is that I wish it had a little more in the ending. The first 90% was so well paced- no complaints, but I wish we could have had a little more time with Connor and Nat at the end.
This is my first book by Garrett Leigh and I can definitely say that I’ll be reading more of her work.
December 17, 2017
"You all must have been through so much before you even came here. It's scary, really."
"Don't let our ghosts scare you. Most of them aren't worth it."
"Every ghost means something, Nat."
Somehow I always have a bit of a guilty conscience when I love a story that deals with the cruelties of war. With the senselessness and intractability. With hopelessness and exhaustion. With loss and grief. Especially if the war is real, like in this story.
Of course, the love story between Nat and Connor is fiction, but leave it to Garrett Leigh to give it an element of truth, to make it feel authentic with everything else what is happening. Yes, it has a touch of insta-love, but given the circumstances it did not bother me this time.
The beginning confused me a bit, because it started with first person narrative, before it switched to third person, but it all makes sense later.
As for me, the author found the perfect balance between daily war routine (even if this sounds weird), action and romance and great characters. Her conveyance of the 'band of brothers' element gave me goose bumps and without sugarcoating anything it was sometimes tough to read, but tangible.
Moments like this are rare and precious in war, but they do exist and that gives at least a bit of hope:
In my last status update I said, that this was maybe my favorite book by this author so far. Even one day after finishing this book, I can't get it out of my head, so scratch the 'maybe'.
Highly recommended!
April 18, 2024
Well this was just fabulous! Truly. The author captured the absolute horrors our forces endure in their fight for our safety and freedom. Dear god, do they endure - appalling conditions, risk to their lives constantly, losing their brothers, you name it. Yet these men do it .... for us and for each other.
Leigh has such a knack with her characters, and Nat, Connor and their boys are some of her best - strong, resilient, protective and tireless in their fight for Queen and Country.
The best GL book I've read to date and it's going straight on my favourites shelf, it was just that good.
Leigh has such a knack with her characters, and Nat, Connor and their boys are some of her best - strong, resilient, protective and tireless in their fight for Queen and Country.
The best GL book I've read to date and it's going straight on my favourites shelf, it was just that good.
March 14, 2016
I freely admit I'm a big fan girl of this author. I like everything's she ever written. But that being said I think this was her best work. This is gorgeous. Unlike some, I have no desire to be a writer. I like reading and I'm happy with that. But every once in awhile I read something so good though that I think "If I could write I would want it to be this book". That's how I felt when I finished this book.
Connor is a journalist who has been an anti-war protester in the past. After his soldier brother dies Connor feels that he never really knew James and he fears James didn't know how much he loved and respected him. Trying to find some peace in regards to his feelings about his brother Connor finds himself on a mission to Iraq with a SAS team. He's going to do a series of articles showcasing what it is that the soldiers do and how they feel about their jobs.
Nat is the leader of that team and he's been in war zones for years. He's lost a lot of friends, as well as big pieces of his heart. He's not happy about being stuck with a journalist but he quickly finds himself drawn to Connor and he's challenged to start opening up the emotional parts of himself that he thought were long gone. Nat's lost men in his command before that he feels responsible for and he's consumed with fear that something might happen to Connor on his watch and that's something he can't live with.
The story is mostly set in Iraq so there is fighting and bloodshed. I didn't find especially violent though and I do not think it will be an issue for most. There are some social and political issues raised but nothing that makes it preachy in either pro or con views. The war as a back drop to a budding romance just served to highlight the beauty of these two men's relationship.
The highlight of this book are the relationships. Not just between Connor and Nat but between each of them and the other men in the group. Also important are the "ghosts" in their pasts. The brother that Connor lost and the best friend who's death Nat feels responsible for. I loved both Connor and Nat and found them to be great MC's. I empathized with what both of them were going through in the course of the story.
Again.....I loved this book. I don't think my review is remotely doing this book justice. All I can really say is run and grab this the moment it comes out.
**ARC provided by the publisher though Netgalley**
Connor is a journalist who has been an anti-war protester in the past. After his soldier brother dies Connor feels that he never really knew James and he fears James didn't know how much he loved and respected him. Trying to find some peace in regards to his feelings about his brother Connor finds himself on a mission to Iraq with a SAS team. He's going to do a series of articles showcasing what it is that the soldiers do and how they feel about their jobs.
Nat is the leader of that team and he's been in war zones for years. He's lost a lot of friends, as well as big pieces of his heart. He's not happy about being stuck with a journalist but he quickly finds himself drawn to Connor and he's challenged to start opening up the emotional parts of himself that he thought were long gone. Nat's lost men in his command before that he feels responsible for and he's consumed with fear that something might happen to Connor on his watch and that's something he can't live with.
The story is mostly set in Iraq so there is fighting and bloodshed. I didn't find especially violent though and I do not think it will be an issue for most. There are some social and political issues raised but nothing that makes it preachy in either pro or con views. The war as a back drop to a budding romance just served to highlight the beauty of these two men's relationship.
The highlight of this book are the relationships. Not just between Connor and Nat but between each of them and the other men in the group. Also important are the "ghosts" in their pasts. The brother that Connor lost and the best friend who's death Nat feels responsible for. I loved both Connor and Nat and found them to be great MC's. I empathized with what both of them were going through in the course of the story.
Again.....I loved this book. I don't think my review is remotely doing this book justice. All I can really say is run and grab this the moment it comes out.
**ARC provided by the publisher though Netgalley**
March 27, 2018
Superbly researched, brutal and complex romance
This book is a brutal depiction of the frustrations and realities of war - in this case the 2003 and onwards invasion of Iraq as part of the so called War of Terror.
A mindless conflict which achieved nothing but cost so many British, and other countries, lives both military and civilian, Garrett Leigh places her two MCs firmly in the centre of Special Forces operations three years later in 2006, as SAS patrol CO Nat and journalist Connor meet in the heat of the desert.
This book is a masterpiece of tension, the romance is an important part, but much more than that is the friendship and camaraderie between the men Connor gets embedded in with to report from the front lines.
I think, unless you've had military family members and friends, it's difficult to get your head round just how close soldiers get when their lives are literally in someone else's hands. This book gets it perfectly.
My heart broke more the longer the story went on, those coffins being sent back home through Royal Wootton Bassett were a familiar sight and once included a lad from my home town and another time, a colleague of my cousin's husband, so the pain was real each time this story drove home the true and personal cost of war.
The romance between Nat and Connor was powerful.
The hastily snatched times together were visibly changing both men emotionally and it was hard to read the longer the story went on and the more the shit hit the fan.
I did guess the big reveal fairly early on but it still came as a huge surprise when the why of it all came out.
This is a romance but it's not your traditional one and I loved every thing about it.
This book is a brutal depiction of the frustrations and realities of war - in this case the 2003 and onwards invasion of Iraq as part of the so called War of Terror.
A mindless conflict which achieved nothing but cost so many British, and other countries, lives both military and civilian, Garrett Leigh places her two MCs firmly in the centre of Special Forces operations three years later in 2006, as SAS patrol CO Nat and journalist Connor meet in the heat of the desert.
This book is a masterpiece of tension, the romance is an important part, but much more than that is the friendship and camaraderie between the men Connor gets embedded in with to report from the front lines.
I think, unless you've had military family members and friends, it's difficult to get your head round just how close soldiers get when their lives are literally in someone else's hands. This book gets it perfectly.
My heart broke more the longer the story went on, those coffins being sent back home through Royal Wootton Bassett were a familiar sight and once included a lad from my home town and another time, a colleague of my cousin's husband, so the pain was real each time this story drove home the true and personal cost of war.
The romance between Nat and Connor was powerful.
The hastily snatched times together were visibly changing both men emotionally and it was hard to read the longer the story went on and the more the shit hit the fan.
I did guess the big reveal fairly early on but it still came as a huge surprise when the why of it all came out.
This is a romance but it's not your traditional one and I loved every thing about it.
February 5, 2016
Connor Regan is a journalist embedded with an elite SAS team, Charlie 3. He is still mourning the death of his brother, James, who was also in the SAS. Connor needs to know the “why” he died, not so much the how. He has trained for years getting ready for his assignment. Physically he is ready. Mentally might be a real problem, especially when he meets the person in command of Charlie 3.
Sergeant Nathan “Nat” Thompson has been hardened by war. Over the years he has seen death and destruction. He is tired of surviving out in the dessert and running low on supplies and eating crappy food. When Charlie 3 is sent out on a mission, Nat is determined to bring his boys back safe, especially Connor.
Most of the m/m military books I read, don’t have both m/c’s serving in the military and on active duty. You get to see the effects of war on both the military personnel as well as the innocent civilians. Some parts are heartbreaking and difficult to understand.
The story does not have a lot of steam, it is more about the emotional need they have for each other and how two damaged hearts heal one another amongst war. There are some twists and turns that you don’t see coming, but I think that just added to story dynamics.
I was provided a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Sergeant Nathan “Nat” Thompson has been hardened by war. Over the years he has seen death and destruction. He is tired of surviving out in the dessert and running low on supplies and eating crappy food. When Charlie 3 is sent out on a mission, Nat is determined to bring his boys back safe, especially Connor.
Most of the m/m military books I read, don’t have both m/c’s serving in the military and on active duty. You get to see the effects of war on both the military personnel as well as the innocent civilians. Some parts are heartbreaking and difficult to understand.
"Don’t let our ghosts scare you. Most of them aren’t
worth it.”
“Every ghost means something, Nat”
The story does not have a lot of steam, it is more about the emotional need they have for each other and how two damaged hearts heal one another amongst war. There are some twists and turns that you don’t see coming, but I think that just added to story dynamics.
I was provided a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
July 2, 2016
I'm beginning to think that Garrett Leigh can do little wrong. I love military stories. Especially when we get to see the vulnerability of the soldiers. While Connor was with Charlie-3, we see them through his eyes and they felt so real. The laughter, the gruffness, and just how they all carried themselves. These men are dedicated. And they're also human.
Connor Regan is a journalist who used to do fairly fluffy pieces about current entertainment. But after his brother James is killed in action, Connor decides to take a different path in an effort to understand why his brother died. It takes years, and a whole lot of training but finally he is approved to tag along with a SAS regiment and write about their humanitarian efforts. For Connor, though, it's about more than just his column. Hopefully, he'll even be able to finish grieving and maybe even understand a bit.
Nat Thompson is the leader of Charlie-3. He's seen more than his fair share of death. So much that he feels numb with it. All except for one - his best friend and second in command who died three years prior. He feels responsible, even though he isn't. Nat just carries everything with him but he tries to not let it show to anyone. He fails with Connor, though. Connor sees straight through to the caring, compassionate man Nat is. Nat says he just doesn't have it in him to feel anymore. The truth is, he feels everything.
When they meet, both Connor and Nat are trapped between the ghosts of the past and and uncertain future. But their chemistry was palpable. Nat fully expected to have to babysit Connor, and instead, Connor was an intelligent, resourceful, insightful man who had the skills to take care of himself. And in Nat, Connor finds a man who has seen too much and lived through it all.
There was surprisingly little angst in Between Ghosts considering they're in the middle of a war zone. It's there, but it wasn't overdone. My only real niggle with the story is I wanted more in the epilogue. More feelings, more sex, just more. After everything they had been through together, I guess I wanted something bigger. Instead, it felt just a touch awkward. Everything else, though - perfection.
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ARC of Between Ghosts was generously provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review
Connor Regan is a journalist who used to do fairly fluffy pieces about current entertainment. But after his brother James is killed in action, Connor decides to take a different path in an effort to understand why his brother died. It takes years, and a whole lot of training but finally he is approved to tag along with a SAS regiment and write about their humanitarian efforts. For Connor, though, it's about more than just his column. Hopefully, he'll even be able to finish grieving and maybe even understand a bit.
Nat Thompson is the leader of Charlie-3. He's seen more than his fair share of death. So much that he feels numb with it. All except for one - his best friend and second in command who died three years prior. He feels responsible, even though he isn't. Nat just carries everything with him but he tries to not let it show to anyone. He fails with Connor, though. Connor sees straight through to the caring, compassionate man Nat is. Nat says he just doesn't have it in him to feel anymore. The truth is, he feels everything.
When they meet, both Connor and Nat are trapped between the ghosts of the past and and uncertain future. But their chemistry was palpable. Nat fully expected to have to babysit Connor, and instead, Connor was an intelligent, resourceful, insightful man who had the skills to take care of himself. And in Nat, Connor finds a man who has seen too much and lived through it all.
There was surprisingly little angst in Between Ghosts considering they're in the middle of a war zone. It's there, but it wasn't overdone. My only real niggle with the story is I wanted more in the epilogue. More feelings, more sex, just more. After everything they had been through together, I guess I wanted something bigger. Instead, it felt just a touch awkward. Everything else, though - perfection.
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ARC of Between Ghosts was generously provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review
June 27, 2016
My ratings for Garrett Leigh are all over the place - I've given her 5 stars, 4, 3, and also just 2. I rate based on my enjoyment of the plot and romance, but what always remains consistent is this author's writing. 'Between Ghosts' is poignant and emotional. I could very clearly feel the regrets and sadness that Connor and Nat lived with. I could also easily immerse myself in the dangerous environment of Basra, Iraq.
The relationship development was well paced. Connor and Nat go from strangers, to wary friends, to secret lovers over the weeks that Connor spends with Nat's team. Given how alone both of the MCs were, I was rooting for them from the beginning. I could even ignore Nat's dickish behaviour, though perhaps only because I got to read his POV and see who he really was.
Nat and Connor help each other through their mourning - Connor for his brother, and Nat for a team member. I loved reading their cuddle sessions on the roof, how the two became each other's calm in the middle of the storm.
'Between Ghosts' is light on the sex and I didn't mind that, which is something I wouldn't usually say. Connor and Nat are in the middle of a war zone, so opportunities to get some nooky are rare, and a lot of the focus is on the military operations. Though that's not to say that the sex isn't hot, because when the two do find time to get away they're on fire.
Now this is the part where I get preachy, so feel free to skip it.
While I thought that the drama at the end was predictable, I still enjoyed the ride. The HEA was well-deserved and left me wanting more! Fans of MM military romance will enjoy 'Between Ghosts'.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
The relationship development was well paced. Connor and Nat go from strangers, to wary friends, to secret lovers over the weeks that Connor spends with Nat's team. Given how alone both of the MCs were, I was rooting for them from the beginning. I could even ignore Nat's dickish behaviour, though perhaps only because I got to read his POV and see who he really was.
Nat and Connor help each other through their mourning - Connor for his brother, and Nat for a team member. I loved reading their cuddle sessions on the roof, how the two became each other's calm in the middle of the storm.
'Between Ghosts' is light on the sex and I didn't mind that, which is something I wouldn't usually say. Connor and Nat are in the middle of a war zone, so opportunities to get some nooky are rare, and a lot of the focus is on the military operations. Though that's not to say that the sex isn't hot, because when the two do find time to get away they're on fire.
Now this is the part where I get preachy, so feel free to skip it.
While I thought that the drama at the end was predictable, I still enjoyed the ride. The HEA was well-deserved and left me wanting more! Fans of MM military romance will enjoy 'Between Ghosts'.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
Read
March 21, 2016This was an absolutely gripping military romance between an embedded journalist and the CO of the squad with which he's embedded.
There's a sense of grim fatalism, of taking comfort and passion in a moment because it could be gone tomorrow. It's raw and ruthless, and it made me cry more than once.
I want to give a shout out to Leigh's handling of Nat's bisexuality.It was treated as a matter-of-fact aspect of his character, mentioned a few times in passing. There was no casual misogyny, no dismissing of exes as inferior for not being THE ONE TRUE LOVE. The treatment of his character was bi-friendly, sex-positive, and deeply appreciated by me.
Still on Nat: He came across as very human and kind in spite of the sense of foreboding that seemed to dog his steps. He was more than a gruff leader, he was a complicated and caring man.
And Connor? Well, Connor was sweet and funny and haunted and determined.
The two of them together were hot and sweet AF.
Highly recommended!
There's a sense of grim fatalism, of taking comfort and passion in a moment because it could be gone tomorrow. It's raw and ruthless, and it made me cry more than once.
I want to give a shout out to Leigh's handling of Nat's bisexuality.It was treated as a matter-of-fact aspect of his character, mentioned a few times in passing. There was no casual misogyny, no dismissing of exes as inferior for not being THE ONE TRUE LOVE. The treatment of his character was bi-friendly, sex-positive, and deeply appreciated by me.
Still on Nat: He came across as very human and kind in spite of the sense of foreboding that seemed to dog his steps. He was more than a gruff leader, he was a complicated and caring man.
And Connor? Well, Connor was sweet and funny and haunted and determined.
The two of them together were hot and sweet AF.
Highly recommended!
February 12, 2024
"Don't let our ghosts scare you. Most of them aren't worth it."
"Every ghost means something, Nat."
Generally speaking, I don't care for military stories, but I really liked this one. And I cannot speak of the realism, especially being American so there's that. Very interesting story, however; really liked the characters - main and otherwise. There were some scenes that came out of left field as far as how the characters responded but things were really up in the air and all rather understandable with emotions being volatile. Cannot even begin to imagine. Soo heartbreaking.
The ending fight was ridiculous. As they always are in these circumstances, but I do like how they ended up supporting each other; how Nat starts to tell Connor of Pogo.
I really liked the ending overall. And I normally don't like epilogues but thought this one was perfect between Nat and Connor and their characters. They spoke quite a bit and sometimes about serious matters but also had awkward bits particularly when serious.
He grasped Nat's face and forced him to meet his gaze, searching for any trace of doubt or uncertainty. "Look me in the eyes and say it again. Say it like you mean it, and I'll do anything you want."
It did seem like something was probably left out, though, as the conversation Connor was having with his sister, Jenna implied. Seemed like he was supposed to be heading somewhere...? At first I thought it was possibly Nat bringing him there but then nothing is mentioned about it... Oh well. Really didn't detract from the story but definitely confused me a sec.
Kinda a spoiler but love this bit. Also, longer quote.
"Got it," Connor said. "Soldier A, Soldier B, and I'll write everything shorthand with pen and paper."
"Pencil, mate. They don't run out and you can sharpen both ends."
November 24, 2024
I'm pretty sure this one is a solid 4 stars. The story is good, and I really like the way the book is written. This is my first book by this author, and I think I can confidently say I will be reading more books from them.
I honestly don't know much about the still ongoing war in the Middle East nor do I think I have enough knowledge to form an opinion so I'll just say I think it's sad that so many people have died and that is still happening.
Both Nath and Connor were good likeable MCs with sad backstories and both unknowingly grieving for the same person, it has a lot of military slang which I found annoying but I also thought it gave "realism" to the story.
I only wished we had more chapters before the epilogue or a larger epilogue to see them together living a more domestic life.
I honestly don't know much about the still ongoing war in the Middle East nor do I think I have enough knowledge to form an opinion so I'll just say I think it's sad that so many people have died and that is still happening.
Both Nath and Connor were good likeable MCs with sad backstories and both unknowingly grieving for the same person, it has a lot of military slang which I found annoying but I also thought it gave "realism" to the story.
I only wished we had more chapters before the epilogue or a larger epilogue to see them together living a more domestic life.
December 19, 2017
War romance, so sad yet so good.
August 1, 2021
I would have loved for a more solid ending, but having "met" Connor and Nat in Soul to Keep, I didn't mind much. I'm glad this one popped up in my feed, I had completely forgotten its existence.
March 14, 2016
Between Ghosts is a thought-out, well-rounded military read with a side of sexy. Connor Regan, brother to the deceased soldier James, has decided to rearrange his life. No longer a kid with certain ideals, he is now a reporter working within an elite team in the military to get the real story of war.
Nat Thompson has lost one of his best friends to the day-to-day grind that is war. He has no time or inclination to deal with bureaucracy and risk any more of his team to drag an untrained civilian along.
What transpires within this read is a real look at the life of a military soldier. More so than the romance, the war plays a massive role in Between Ghosts. The action outweighs the romance and with some creative twists and turns the story stays fresh and keeps the reader invested till the end.
It’s a great read for action fans with enough heat to keep the romantics enthralled!
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Nat Thompson has lost one of his best friends to the day-to-day grind that is war. He has no time or inclination to deal with bureaucracy and risk any more of his team to drag an untrained civilian along.
What transpires within this read is a real look at the life of a military soldier. More so than the romance, the war plays a massive role in Between Ghosts. The action outweighs the romance and with some creative twists and turns the story stays fresh and keeps the reader invested till the end.
It’s a great read for action fans with enough heat to keep the romantics enthralled!
Follow us on
KT Book Reviews
July 24, 2016
*** 5 stars! ***
OMG ! I was so happy when I've got this book, it's Garrett frickin' Leigh !
But then I realised this is a war story. In Iraq. Dammit !
I have a hate - love - hate - relationship about this one.
I lost my loved one in the same country .
That's why I felt giddy and chicken out before I started this. But like almost all of you guys, I'm a masochist, and I read.
Yeah, fuckin' awesome. I read and I was right 'there' with Connor and Nat.
I hate that they're lost someone they loved. I hate that they have to experienced the unforgettable moments together. And I think I know what it feels to be in the waiting end for them to come home. Or not.
This story has became personal to me . And 'seeing' what Nat and Connor had been throgh, hurts me.
I love their connection, they have that strong chemistry from the first time they met. All the denials are bullshit. They're attracted to each other right from the start.
I loved how Garrett Leigh didn't make it as a mushy fluffy story. There's no 'romantic' moments between Connor and Nat, at least not in a sweet romantic way.
They're all hard, and all that macho stuff with their relationship. Happened that I liked it so much.
The ending..OMG..the ending was 'PERFECT!', and I'm not complaining. Not at all, mate.
It was what I want to be. A perfect HEA for two wounded soul.
I bet James smiles up there :)
Note : D, I was thinking about you when I read this story. May your soul rest in peace up there.
*ARC was given through Netgalley*
My favorite quotes...
"Nat shivered, exposed and laid bare, but for the first time in his life he didn’t give a shit. “I’m okay. It’s just being with you, like this, I can’t hide . . . from you, from anything.”"
"Common sense— and the rockets lighting the night sky— told him whatever was brewing between them was a bad idea—a bad idea with no future, except a shit-ton of heartache— but Connor’s eyes drew him in, like they always did. Life was too short to ignore a moment as perfect as this."
March 3, 2016
3.5 Stars
This is my portion of a co-review (Gay Guy / St8 Girl). On the blog OJ and I go into a more in-depth discussion with a back and forth Q & A session. Click the link below to see the whole review and more.
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I enjoyed the read, but it lacked the teeth I had expected. I was surprised to find this so…romantic. I know, I know, this is male-male romance, but the setting led me to believe there would be more impact, more grit. To be fair there are a few action scenes, but it was the sex and tender words that were the focus here.
And maybe I’ve been reading these things too long, but I saw “it” coming from the beginning.
THE CHARACTERS
Connor Regan - Young reporter embedded with a British Special Forces team, SAS, during the second Iraq war. He’s as green as they come, but he holds his own with the team.
Nathan (Nat) Thompson - A tough, terse leader battling ghosts. Nat’s unflappable, ice-cool persona was legendary.
The rest of the SAS team are pretty well developed too, and I can see some of these guys needing their own stories. Definitely some good guys to discover here. I actually enjoyed them more than the main characters.
THE STORY
Nat is living his life day to day without outward feeling or emotion. He gets the job done, but has forgotten there is life outside the warzone. His persona is of a closed off, serious leader, but he’s suppressing grief and loss.
Embedded Connor is on two missions: One to “get the story”. And two to find out what happened to his brother who was lost in battle—no info is shared for SAS operators—and that leaves Connor unable to come to terms with his brother’s loss.
THE WRITING
There’s a line – Nat’s touch had always had that effect on him…
They’d only been together a few weeks at this point. A lot of the timing just felt off to me. I also felt there were awkward emotional and sentimental transitions. Christ, he didn’t even know if Nat had a home. You know he can fuck, though…
I had a tough time “getting” Nat’s character. We’re told how tough he is, but I just didn’t ever feel it. However, the author does a great job with the rest of the team and I felt their connection and their personalities jump off the page. If the series continues I would love to know more about them.
Ultimately I was left underwhelmed. The lingering surprise didn’t surprise me. In fact, I made a note about one third of the way in saying that I hoped the author would shock me and take a different path. She didn’t.
~ ~ ~
We would like to thank Riptide Publishing for providing us with a review copy via Netgalley.com in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.com
This is my portion of a co-review (Gay Guy / St8 Girl). On the blog OJ and I go into a more in-depth discussion with a back and forth Q & A session. Click the link below to see the whole review and more.
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I enjoyed the read, but it lacked the teeth I had expected. I was surprised to find this so…romantic. I know, I know, this is male-male romance, but the setting led me to believe there would be more impact, more grit. To be fair there are a few action scenes, but it was the sex and tender words that were the focus here.
And maybe I’ve been reading these things too long, but I saw “it” coming from the beginning.
THE CHARACTERS
Connor Regan - Young reporter embedded with a British Special Forces team, SAS, during the second Iraq war. He’s as green as they come, but he holds his own with the team.
Nathan (Nat) Thompson - A tough, terse leader battling ghosts. Nat’s unflappable, ice-cool persona was legendary.
The rest of the SAS team are pretty well developed too, and I can see some of these guys needing their own stories. Definitely some good guys to discover here. I actually enjoyed them more than the main characters.
THE STORY
Nat is living his life day to day without outward feeling or emotion. He gets the job done, but has forgotten there is life outside the warzone. His persona is of a closed off, serious leader, but he’s suppressing grief and loss.
Nat hadn’t had a bloke turn his head in years, and now the hottest dude he’d ever seen was embedding with his crew for the foreseeable future? […] Life just wasn’t fair.
Embedded Connor is on two missions: One to “get the story”. And two to find out what happened to his brother who was lost in battle—no info is shared for SAS operators—and that leaves Connor unable to come to terms with his brother’s loss.
THE WRITING
There’s a line – Nat’s touch had always had that effect on him…
They’d only been together a few weeks at this point. A lot of the timing just felt off to me. I also felt there were awkward emotional and sentimental transitions. Christ, he didn’t even know if Nat had a home. You know he can fuck, though…
I had a tough time “getting” Nat’s character. We’re told how tough he is, but I just didn’t ever feel it. However, the author does a great job with the rest of the team and I felt their connection and their personalities jump off the page. If the series continues I would love to know more about them.
Ultimately I was left underwhelmed. The lingering surprise didn’t surprise me. In fact, I made a note about one third of the way in saying that I hoped the author would shock me and take a different path. She didn’t.
~ ~ ~
We would like to thank Riptide Publishing for providing us with a review copy via Netgalley.com in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.com
May 23, 2017
This one wasn't easy but it was worth it...
'Between Ghosts' makes the fourth book that I've ever read which was set during a war. Two of those books were written by Greg Iles and anyone who knows me, knows he could write a recipe book and I'd read it cover to cover, the third book was by Amy Lane and it was set during WWII as were the Greg Iles books so this book is even more unique in that it's set in modern times and that's something I really would rather avoid in my stories because the fact that men and women are still fighting and dying in wars is a reality that I don't want crossing over into my reading. I read to escape what can often be a harsh and unfair world so it's rare that I intentionally choose something that's going to slam home the facts of what I maybe want to forget about for a while.
Ok, so now you know why I choose to avoid war stories. So what made me break my rule for this one...a number of reasons not the least of which was that it got really good reviews from a number of my friends, whose opinions I trust and respect. It was written by an author who, even though, I've only read a couple of their books so far has impressed the hell outta' me and then even though I own the book and could have just read it I was presented with the opportunity to listen to the audio book and after listening to the sample, well, all I could say was sign me up because "Holy Hell!!! Craig Beck's voice just does it for me." He's British...ok? I have a weak spot for British accents...so sue me.
Now about the story...let me start by saying this is not what I would typically call a 'romance'. It was for a lot of intent and purpose a war story but it also contained a story about love and not just a romance, although there is that too. Ironically there were a lot of different forms of love in this 'war' story. There was the love that one has for their family, their country, the love that bonds people together...specifically soldiers, to form a family of their own during trying times and beyond and yes there was a love story as well not a grand epic romantic type of love but one that grows and endures and it's built on trials and hardships, a love that makes one person put their life on the line for another without hesitation, without second thought for their own safety and well being. It's a quiet love, soft and subtle but still filled with a passion all it's own. That was how I saw Connor and Nat's love.
I'm not going to go into the details of this story because I think it's a story best appreciated between the individual reader and the author's words. What I'm going to say is how I felt as I read this story...as I journeyed with Connor to find out what really happened to his brother. I felt his frustrations of not knowing the details. How could I not? I have four brothers and you can be damned sure if something happened to one of them I'd want to know the hows and whys of what happened. I felt his frustration at how he was treated by the men in the unit that he was assigned to. At feeling like he didn't quite measure up. I shared his fear and worry at being in such a volatile climate and so many other emotions. Even if I didn't truly feel them I could see and understand why they were happening because I was there in that moment with him.
Garret Leigh drew me into this story with her words, Craig Beck surrounded me with it, with his narration and in the end I cried...so many tears, some were happy tears, some were sad, many were a bit of both and I think maybe not all of them were for this book so much as what it represented...the reality that I imagine gave birth to the idea because fact is stranger than fiction and it is also colder and harsher.
"Between Ghost" is a story about war but it is also a reminder of the fact that even in the middle of war, that with strength and courage there can exist love and hope. For me this was an incredibly powerful story and a wonderful way to start off a new year.
********************
An audio ARC of 'Between Ghost' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
'Between Ghosts' makes the fourth book that I've ever read which was set during a war. Two of those books were written by Greg Iles and anyone who knows me, knows he could write a recipe book and I'd read it cover to cover, the third book was by Amy Lane and it was set during WWII as were the Greg Iles books so this book is even more unique in that it's set in modern times and that's something I really would rather avoid in my stories because the fact that men and women are still fighting and dying in wars is a reality that I don't want crossing over into my reading. I read to escape what can often be a harsh and unfair world so it's rare that I intentionally choose something that's going to slam home the facts of what I maybe want to forget about for a while.
Ok, so now you know why I choose to avoid war stories. So what made me break my rule for this one...a number of reasons not the least of which was that it got really good reviews from a number of my friends, whose opinions I trust and respect. It was written by an author who, even though, I've only read a couple of their books so far has impressed the hell outta' me and then even though I own the book and could have just read it I was presented with the opportunity to listen to the audio book and after listening to the sample, well, all I could say was sign me up because "Holy Hell!!! Craig Beck's voice just does it for me." He's British...ok? I have a weak spot for British accents...so sue me.
Now about the story...let me start by saying this is not what I would typically call a 'romance'. It was for a lot of intent and purpose a war story but it also contained a story about love and not just a romance, although there is that too. Ironically there were a lot of different forms of love in this 'war' story. There was the love that one has for their family, their country, the love that bonds people together...specifically soldiers, to form a family of their own during trying times and beyond and yes there was a love story as well not a grand epic romantic type of love but one that grows and endures and it's built on trials and hardships, a love that makes one person put their life on the line for another without hesitation, without second thought for their own safety and well being. It's a quiet love, soft and subtle but still filled with a passion all it's own. That was how I saw Connor and Nat's love.
I'm not going to go into the details of this story because I think it's a story best appreciated between the individual reader and the author's words. What I'm going to say is how I felt as I read this story...as I journeyed with Connor to find out what really happened to his brother. I felt his frustrations of not knowing the details. How could I not? I have four brothers and you can be damned sure if something happened to one of them I'd want to know the hows and whys of what happened. I felt his frustration at how he was treated by the men in the unit that he was assigned to. At feeling like he didn't quite measure up. I shared his fear and worry at being in such a volatile climate and so many other emotions. Even if I didn't truly feel them I could see and understand why they were happening because I was there in that moment with him.
Garret Leigh drew me into this story with her words, Craig Beck surrounded me with it, with his narration and in the end I cried...so many tears, some were happy tears, some were sad, many were a bit of both and I think maybe not all of them were for this book so much as what it represented...the reality that I imagine gave birth to the idea because fact is stranger than fiction and it is also colder and harsher.
"Between Ghost" is a story about war but it is also a reminder of the fact that even in the middle of war, that with strength and courage there can exist love and hope. For me this was an incredibly powerful story and a wonderful way to start off a new year.
********************
An audio ARC of 'Between Ghost' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2016
4.5 stars.
I truly loved this story!
I love this author's books, some more then others, this one was definitely one of the ones I love more.
I must say that the two MC's relationship was sort of instant and felt like it comes from nowhere. I would have loved to see it build and transform more deeply, to have more "foundations".
But, as soon as I overcame this little bump, I felt a true connection between the characters and I was rooting for them.
I loved how they cared for one another and wanted them safe and sound.
I also loved how the author wrote about the conflicts of fighting a "questionable" war, and the blurred borders between good and bad in a modern time war.
I truly loved this story!
I love this author's books, some more then others, this one was definitely one of the ones I love more.
I must say that the two MC's relationship was sort of instant and felt like it comes from nowhere. I would have loved to see it build and transform more deeply, to have more "foundations".
But, as soon as I overcame this little bump, I felt a true connection between the characters and I was rooting for them.
I loved how they cared for one another and wanted them safe and sound.
I also loved how the author wrote about the conflicts of fighting a "questionable" war, and the blurred borders between good and bad in a modern time war.
July 2, 2023
I decided to read it after meeting Connor and Nat in Soul to Keep and I'm so happy I did come here too.
It was a very well written and well researched story, something I never expect from a romance novel. Loved both main characters, their chemistry, the fast paced development.
It's not easy to find a good romantic story that has also good thriller elements so it was a win.
It was a very well written and well researched story, something I never expect from a romance novel. Loved both main characters, their chemistry, the fast paced development.
It's not easy to find a good romantic story that has also good thriller elements so it was a win.
December 29, 2016
Journalist Conner Regan wants answers about the death of his older brother James in Iraq. He devises a plan to travel with some troops, providing an insight to the war, but perhaps he will also get an answer about his brother.
Nathan "Nat" Thompson has been fighting in Iraq for several years now. He commands a group of harden, weary men. What he doesn't need is a civilian that will bollocks their missions, but the higher ups think it will be good PR.
This book is now at the top of my list for 2016. I thought it was a brilliant piece about bonds, physical, spiritual, and mental, highlighted with some amazing characters. I, also, applaud the amount of research that went into this story. Knowing men that have been in Iraq, and other campaigns, I can say that the author did an amazing job. If it's hearts and flowers that turn you on, this probably won't be your cup of tea, but it should be. Well done, Garrett Leigh, well done.
**The audio to this is truly amazing. I am gobsmacked by the job that Craig Beck did. So well done, so well done**
Nathan "Nat" Thompson has been fighting in Iraq for several years now. He commands a group of harden, weary men. What he doesn't need is a civilian that will bollocks their missions, but the higher ups think it will be good PR.
This book is now at the top of my list for 2016. I thought it was a brilliant piece about bonds, physical, spiritual, and mental, highlighted with some amazing characters. I, also, applaud the amount of research that went into this story. Knowing men that have been in Iraq, and other campaigns, I can say that the author did an amazing job. If it's hearts and flowers that turn you on, this probably won't be your cup of tea, but it should be. Well done, Garrett Leigh, well done.
**The audio to this is truly amazing. I am gobsmacked by the job that Craig Beck did. So well done, so well done**
March 21, 2016
I was quite apprehensive starting this, as I don't relate well to war stories, but it was a glorious book. The balance between melancholy and hope, past and future is done so delicately, and the relationship between Connor and Nat- was beautiful , as was every single relationship in the book. There wasn't any dialogue or human circumstance that didn't ring true. So while the situations may have been alien, the reactions weren't.
One of the best books I've read this year
One of the best books I've read this year
September 30, 2024
3,5 stars
This book was ok and I liked Connor and Nat together but I can't say that the story swept me off my feet exactly. Some special charm was missing. It was also my first military romance and I'm glad I tried sth new but I think it's not really my thing because I soon became lost in army jargon and then got bored of it.
This book was ok and I liked Connor and Nat together but I can't say that the story swept me off my feet exactly. Some special charm was missing. It was also my first military romance and I'm glad I tried sth new but I think it's not really my thing because I soon became lost in army jargon and then got bored of it.
March 16, 2016
3.75 stars
This was intense and engaging. I don't read too many military stories, but most of the ones that I read tend to take place back home afterwards. Between Ghosts is different in that almost all of the story occurs in the war zone in Iraq in 2006. Connor is an imbedded journalist trying to make sense of his brother's death three years before. He's assigned to Nat's unit. Nat has been hardened by years of war and haunted by memories of the friends he's lost. There's an attraction simmering between them almost from the beginning.
I liked the backdrop of war and, as usual, i enjoyed Ms. Leigh's writing. However, for some reason I couldn't get as emotionally connected to the romance between Connor and Nat as I wanted to. I can't put my finger on exactly why this was but I suspect others might not have the same issue.
One positive note -- this is another book that has a bisexual MC. And, on a personal note, I really appreciated that the author didn't feel the need to prove that he was bisexual by showing him having sex with women or constantly thinking about the P word(!)
One quibble -- this was a four star book but then I docked it down 1/4 stars because of a plot point near the end.
This was intense and engaging. I don't read too many military stories, but most of the ones that I read tend to take place back home afterwards. Between Ghosts is different in that almost all of the story occurs in the war zone in Iraq in 2006. Connor is an imbedded journalist trying to make sense of his brother's death three years before. He's assigned to Nat's unit. Nat has been hardened by years of war and haunted by memories of the friends he's lost. There's an attraction simmering between them almost from the beginning.
I liked the backdrop of war and, as usual, i enjoyed Ms. Leigh's writing. However, for some reason I couldn't get as emotionally connected to the romance between Connor and Nat as I wanted to. I can't put my finger on exactly why this was but I suspect others might not have the same issue.
One positive note -- this is another book that has a bisexual MC. And, on a personal note, I really appreciated that the author didn't feel the need to prove that he was bisexual by showing him having sex with women or constantly thinking about the P word(!)
One quibble -- this was a four star book but then I docked it down 1/4 stars because of a plot point near the end.
March 6, 2018
Garret Leigh simply has a way with words.
It hits you straight there - where it matters most. I am not necessarily into military books, but this one really got to me. Although probably nowhere near the real horrors that soldiers have to endure (not sure if the average punter could cope with that), it brought home what these men do in the most harrowing circumstances day-in and day-out, what they sacrifice and what they lose by just doing their job.
One thing's for sure - they change, just like Nat, who has forgotten what life beyond being a soldier is like. Meeting Connor rights that imbalance a little bit, and allows him to feel and hope again.
And Connor? He is just as tough as nails, even though he is an 'ignorant hack'. I loved his no-nonsense approach and genuine curiosity in virtually everything.
Against the serious background their romance felt almost 'out of place', and yet, all the sweeter for the same reason. I was maybe a bit surprised how quickly the instant attraction changed to real emotions, but then again ... I wonder if being in a war zone can cause you to focus more clearly on many things and make you more aware of what is really important.
Loved the guys, but mostly, this book left me with a lot of food for thought!
Thank you for your kind present, Christelle!
It hits you straight there - where it matters most. I am not necessarily into military books, but this one really got to me. Although probably nowhere near the real horrors that soldiers have to endure (not sure if the average punter could cope with that), it brought home what these men do in the most harrowing circumstances day-in and day-out, what they sacrifice and what they lose by just doing their job.
One thing's for sure - they change, just like Nat, who has forgotten what life beyond being a soldier is like. Meeting Connor rights that imbalance a little bit, and allows him to feel and hope again.
And Connor? He is just as tough as nails, even though he is an 'ignorant hack'. I loved his no-nonsense approach and genuine curiosity in virtually everything.
Against the serious background their romance felt almost 'out of place', and yet, all the sweeter for the same reason. I was maybe a bit surprised how quickly the instant attraction changed to real emotions, but then again ... I wonder if being in a war zone can cause you to focus more clearly on many things and make you more aware of what is really important.
Loved the guys, but mostly, this book left me with a lot of food for thought!
Thank you for your kind present, Christelle!
March 2, 2020
4.75 stars
Here's what I wrote about the book back in 2016:
"Atmospheric, great world building, well developed characters, well written, gritty story with an unlikely romance. The British slang in the dialogue repeatedly drew me away from the story, but after awhile I just started to grin every time some obscure-to-us-Americans word or phrase popped up. I got over it. Being married to a retired airman who was part of the intelligence community probably gave me a slightly different perspective than the average romance reader. I loved the military jargon, the missions, life away from a FOB, camaraderie, etc. And I love the complicated protagonists, Nat and Connor. Highly recommended..."
Audiobook March 2020: All of the above and so much more for the brilliant narration by Craig Beck. Lots of heightened emotions, angst/stress, fear, sadness, and even occasional hilarity. Not being a Brit, I truly don't know if all the regional accents were accurate. But in my own mind's eye, it felt right. This audio version took an already superb story and turned it into something I'll never forget. So basically five stars, warts and all, because I'll never remember any flaws.
Here's what I wrote about the book back in 2016:
"Atmospheric, great world building, well developed characters, well written, gritty story with an unlikely romance. The British slang in the dialogue repeatedly drew me away from the story, but after awhile I just started to grin every time some obscure-to-us-Americans word or phrase popped up. I got over it. Being married to a retired airman who was part of the intelligence community probably gave me a slightly different perspective than the average romance reader. I loved the military jargon, the missions, life away from a FOB, camaraderie, etc. And I love the complicated protagonists, Nat and Connor. Highly recommended..."
Audiobook March 2020: All of the above and so much more for the brilliant narration by Craig Beck. Lots of heightened emotions, angst/stress, fear, sadness, and even occasional hilarity. Not being a Brit, I truly don't know if all the regional accents were accurate. But in my own mind's eye, it felt right. This audio version took an already superb story and turned it into something I'll never forget. So basically five stars, warts and all, because I'll never remember any flaws.
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