Issued

3.5 Stars The story line was good, the character work was great and the book had a smooth flow to it. This was a quick, fun read and I was able to overlook the absurdity of the Navy forcing one of their soldiers to marry. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

This first book in the Navy SEALs of Little Creek centers around Navy SEAL Jim Stephens and Taya Maverick. Jim is recovering from a TBI and all he wants to do is return to active duty. Things are not going well for him but his C.O. throws him a life line. Be the first to try out the arranged marriage program that the Navy wants to implement, and MAYBE he will be able to return to active duty. Meanwhile, Taya had filled out an application of this program as a bet , but when she’s in danger and needs to leave NYC, she accepts the offer hoping that her husband to be can keep her safe. I have to confess that I am still trying to figure out how I feel about the story. While I appreciated the fact that the author highlights the TBI and the effects war has on the brave men and women who serve our country, the plot felt at times choppy as it jumped to a scene without some background to the reader. Not sure how I feel about the reverse sexual submission . I will give it a 3 stars rating since it had some moments where it held my interest. I was entrusted a copy of this book by Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

I really enjoyed Taya and Jim’s journey in Issued by Paris Wynters, book one in her Navy Seals of Little Creek series. This is a story of two people with plenty of baggage, who marry as part of the military’s new spouse-matching program. Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes, so I was definitely excited about this story. Taya signed up for this volunteer program as a joke when dared by her search and rescue buddies; now, she’s glad this is an option after her father is killed and her home is set on fire by her former best friend. Strong, determined, loyal, and a hard worker, Taya is determined to disappear from New York in order to start over and be safe. An added plus in staying safe is her new Navy SEAL husband. After a disastrous marriage to a serial cheater Jim has no interest in every marrying again. His options were taken out of his hands by a commanding officer who refuses to take no for an order. Jim needs to save his career after a mistake in combat puts him on the leadership’s radar and an injury temporarily sidelined him. Being the first to participate in this pilot program guarantees him his position and eventually allow for his clearance to active duty. Not long after saying “I do” Jim and Taya realize they underestimated their relationship. These two have off the charts sizzling chemistry which could burn up the sheets but neither was prepared to open their heart. These two need to learn how to trust, communicate, and be honest without holding anything back, before they can move forward. Then Taya’s past makes an appearance, causing major problems that just might keep her from getting her happily ever after. Ms. Wynters wrote a passionate and emotional story that is definitely not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with chemistry, intense banter, and endearing characters giving Taya and Jim a chance for a future together. I highly recommend Issued to other readers. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.