Here with Me

Books, Coffee & Passion

I couldn't resist to read this book after reading the blurb and seeing some reviews on blogs I follow. Two SEALS fighting for one woman's love is a pretty good incentive but a presumably dead SEAL coming home? That's like Christmas wrapped up in one book. I thought I would enjoy it so I bought it on Kobo, but guess what? I didn't just enjoy it, I fell madly, truly, deeply in love with this story! The minute I read the last page, I went and bought the second book, because I couldn't wait another second to continue reading Ryley and Evan's story. That's right. I wasn't really caring much about Nate at this point, because I love Evan. It's impossible not to.

So, Evan returns home after a 6 year mission with no welcome party. He gets home only to find out his life is gone, because everyone thought he was dead, and Ryley is engaged to another man. His brother, Nate. Ryley buried the love of her life 6 years ago and can't believe her eyes when she sees him waiting for her in their house's porch. This scene broke my heart. It was emotionally powerful and beautifully written, gut-wrenching, I might add.

The way the book starts is perfect, because both Evan and Ryley talk about their relationship (in alternating POV's, of course) while they try to deal with all that's happened to them and figure out how their future is going to be.

I loved both of the characters, the way they pour their emotions and open up to each other is passionate and striking. It's hard for Ryley because she is trapped between the love of her life and the man that helped her heal and love again. It's even harder for Evan because he feels like he's in an alternative reality where everything is upside down. Like I said, it's impossible not to love Evan but Ryley proved to be one hell of a character too.

I really don't want to give away much because I think spoilers will ruin the deep emotional ride that this story offers the readers. And it's so worth it.

I haven't read any other books by Heidi McLaughlin but she definitely burst into my list of authors to watch and read.