Review: Hers to Heal by Vonnie Davis

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Standalone - Black Eagle Ops #2
Release: November 22, 2016
Length: 238 pages

Navy SEAL Reece Browning sacrificed body and soul in the line of duty. He survived torture at the hands of America’s enemies, but lost his career and his voice in the process. Traumatized and desperate to get his PTSD under control, Reece escapes to Eagle Ridge Ranch. Under the big Texas sky, he finds peace, a renewed sense of purpose—and a woman who makes him feel like a man again. Her smile lights up his dark days, and her caress helps him forget the night terrors.

Ex-Marine Gina Wilson also bears painful scars: emotional wounds inflicted by men she once trusted with her life. She has fought hard to overcome her demons and build a good life for her daughter, and Reece is too intense, too damaged, too raw to let into her heart. Yet she’s drawn irresistibly to his steely gaze and heated embrace. No one else understands what it’s like to suffer in silence. And when Gina’s daughter is threatened, it’s Reece who risks everything to save the day.

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MY REVIEW

This book was a sweet combination of many things. There were military men and women, PTSD, a precocious almost-genius 6 year old girl, a wise and well-meaning mama, comraderie, a lot of laughs, and there was so much love among all of the characters.

Despite touching on heavy topics such as PTSD, torture and rape, overall the story was surprisingly heartwarming. All of the issues were handled delicately and sensibly. The author gave plenty of details without being too graphic or dwelling. It was more about accepting one's past, asking and getting help when needed, and being able to move forward.

I enjoyed this story immensely. I respect and admire anyone who serves in the military and this book shed light on what many of them have endured or are still trying to deal with. My only disappointment was towards the end. Without giving a spoiler, a situation occurs and the heroine, Gina, went off her rocker and completely disrespected the hero, Reese. It was uncalled for, unjustified, and unnecessary to the plot IMO. I really wish I could remove that part. And I don't think she atoned well enough for her behaviour.

My favourite characters: Piper (so effin cute), Junebug (she was a riot), and of course, Mr. Alpha himself, Reece.

Genre: Contemporary Romance (Military angle)
POV: Multiple