One Lucky Hero audiobook

This review was originally posted on Latte Nights Reviews.Violet has gone through so much in her life and trusting people doesn't come easy for her. Losing her mother to suicide and when one night of torment leads to chasing off her drug addicted father, all Violet wants is one night of letting loose. She meets Dean at a concert and has the best night of her life. But it all comes crashing down when she receives a phone call and has to face reality. Her brother has gotten into some trouble and instead of going to juvie, they give him an out: stay at Alpha Dog training center for a month. Turns out Violet's one night stand is the boss at Alpha Dog and she has to see him constantly.4 Reasons to Read ONE LUCKY HERO:1. DepthThis story has so much depth to the characters, you have to slowly peel off the layers. Starting with Violet, from such a young age she has had to grow up to take care of her siblings and it hasn't been easy. She is so strong, though. She wants to do good for her siblings so they can have a good future. Sgt. Dean Sparks also has a past that he hasn't been wanting to face. Despite all of it, he wants to return to active duty, but interactions with a certain red-head has him considering if that's what he truly wants.2. Family & Tough IssuesFamily is so important in this story and it's highlighted all the time. Violet and her siblings went through a lot, especially Vi's younger brother Casey. He has a secret of what happened to him and why he changed from being a loving and caring boy to someone who doesn't care and cringes at anyone touching him. I felt so bad for Casey. Something was tormenting him, but he never spoke of what was going on. Instead, he lashed out. My heart broke for him so many times. The author introduced issues like suicide, drug addiction, and rape. All of them weren't easy to read. Despite all the tough topics, Codi Gary included some funny moments that balanced the story.3. RomanceGosh, the romance!!! *fangirls and swoons* Violet and Dean are the perfect match. I was so beyond in love with their story. They are both so stubborn, it's not even funny. They are so cute together, though. I was definitely rooting for them through the entire story. Since Violet has a tough past that has made her not trust easily, she doesn't trust Dean and that's where I got frustrated. I totally understand where she's coming from but she kept pushing Dean away. Still, the romance was so cute and sexy and off the charts."Never feel bad about putting yourself first."4. FriendshipWhile they weren't much in the story, the few times they were made the story so fun. Right from the start, I knew a certain character was going to make me laugh and he did! I hope he has his story coming out soon because I will devour it. I cannot wait to read the rest of the stories as I'm sure they will be a blast!Overall, this story will make you laugh, cry, and fall in love. It was so very enjoyable, entertaining and filled with feels!This review was originally posted on Latte Nights Reviews.

After reading I Need A Hero which is the prequel/ introduction to the Men in Uniform series I knew I was going to love this series. I mean who doesn't like hot military alpha men who get knocked sideways by their heroines?! And with One Lucky Hero it did not disappoint. While reading the prequel is encouraged, it's not necessary. In One Lucky Hero we meet Violet who just wants to be normal for a day. After loosing her mother to suicide and chasing off her drug addicted father, Violet has raised her younger sister and brother. When attending an outdoor concert with her best friend she meets Dean and maybe thinks just one night wouldn't hurt but she had no idea she would be seeing him again and soon. Dean isn't looking for a relationship and is waiting to get back on active duty. After spending the night with Violet he knows she is different but after giving her his number he knows he won't hear from her again. Color him surprised when he sees her again with her younger brother at the Alpha Dog training center where he works. Dean knows he should leave her alone but the closer they become the harder he falls. These two characters were so much a like in so many ways I just loved them. Violet and Dean definitely have the stubbornness factor going on and love helping people but when it comes down to themselves they don't want help. From the beginning I loved the attraction between these two and their relationship is mainly push/pull for the entire story. I also enjoyed meeting Dean and Violet's friends. I can already tell I'm going to love their stories when it's their turn. Best is the one I'm looking forward to reading the most! Gary included a some tough situations and subjects in this storyline that had my heart breaking for these characters but she also included some witty and sweet moments that made me just enjoy this story to the fullest. I really enjoyed the while Alpha Dog concept and that helped make the story even better. As far as the ending went I felt what happened was a little expected but I did enjoy that it had a epilogue so that we got to touch base with the characters and see what happened to them in the future. If you're looking for a new military romance with a twist to sink your teeth into I'm definitely recommending this one.

4.5 Smooches review coming at Red Cheeks Reads

One Lucky Hero is the first book in the new series Men In Uniform. We meet some of the characters in her novella I Need a Hero (which I loved). The main couple is Violet Douglas and Dean Sparks.Dean is in charge of the Alpha Dog Training program. The program helps juvenile delinquents serve their sentence by learning how to take care of and train dogs that are getting a second chance in life. Dean is happy with the way the program is doing but he's also desperate to go back into action. He just needs his psych to clear him back for duty. He's not looking for romance since he doesn't think it's fair to start something just to leave soon after. Violet's life is nothing more than a huge responsibility. When her mother committed suicide and her dad left, she became her siblings guardian. She did it out of love. She cares for them immensely but this situation has put a damper on her social life. Starting a serious relationship is not in the schedule.When her girlfriend asked her out to attend a concert, she is ready to party for the first time in a long time. Unfortunately, Dean is not making it easy but as the night progresses things between them change. Their one-night stand turns into more when a week later, her brother is forced to attend the Alpha Dog Training, making it impossible for them to avoid each other any longer.Codi Gary's book's are a must for me. I just know that I enjoy her stories. In One Lucky Hero, both main characters are likable. They both have reasons not to start a serious relationship and they try really hard to avoid it. There were many sweet moments coming from Dean. I love his relationship with his lazy dog, how he helps Violet at home despite her assurances that she can do it all. He was there for all the Douglas siblings, making it impossible for me to dislike him. Violet was an admirable character. She has done everything to keep her family together. She was super supportive of her siblings and she knew when she was in over her head too. It just took her a little bit to recognize it. It's hard to put your trust in someone new. I wonder who's next in this series...Cliffhanger: No4/5 FangsA complimentary copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

‘She had never understood the romance novels that had a hero and a heroine fighting one minute and making out the next, but right now, she totally got it.’ Codi Gary is an author that is constantly surprising and delighting me. Her books are always full of depth, growth and wonderful stories and One Lucky Hero is no different. This book was exactly what I wanted on a lazy and rainy Sunday and left me warm and happy in the end. One Lucky Hero is the second standalone (and first full length book) in the Alpha Dog series and I loved it even more than the first. “I don’t want anything serious, you know that, but with Violet . . . I mean, the girl has got drama up to her eyeballs and trust issues that would make most psychiatrists want to put her in a lab and study her. But I just can’t get her out of my head.” When Violet and Dean hook up one night after meeting at a concert their chemistry is undeniable but neither are in a place for a relationship and know that nothing more can come of it despite the pull they seem to have over one another. But when Violet’s brother ends up in the troubled youth program run by Dean they can no longer avoid each other but instead try to be friends. These two have so much sexual tension and it is clear they both yearn for each other but their current life situation make relationships nearly impossible. “I’m not living Dean. I had no idea what it felt like to be alive until you.” I absolutely adored Dean. Protective and alpha tot he core he wants to distant himself from Violet since he wants to be deployed again and yet he just cannot stay away. He has never been drawn to a woman the way he is drawn to her. Violet is raising her brother and sister and has no time for anyone else in her life. She constantly pushes Dean away and yet when he is near she can’t help but give in. Everything about the premise of this made me think I would be frustrated by these two and yet it was written in such a way that I never felt like that. Codi Gary always delievers a clean and fresh story. If you haven’t read her books yet I highly urge you to give them a shot, I have never been disappointed!4.5 Smooches~miranda

This is the first book in the Men in Uniform series. There is a novella that comes before this called I Need a Hero that I loved and reviewed. You really don't need to read it first but...why not? I think you'll really enjoy it so give it a try. Plus it kind of sets up what the series is all about.I really love Dean, from the second he growled at his friend Tyler I was hooked. I find it funny that he says he wants one thing, but really wants another. You can't help but enjoying his character. The man is down to earth and never backs down from a fight.Now Violet in the beginning of the book I really liked. But her actions to what was going on in her life got on my nerves a little bit. I get that she has so many responsibilities on her shoulders, but instead of jumping on Dean, she should be kicking her brother and sisters asses.Both of the them are ungrateful and rude. Of course without their actions a big part of the story wouldn't be there so I get it. I just wouldn't let anyone treat me that way, even someone I love.But like I said, it all makes for a good story.One Lucky Hero is a must read. Great story, fantastic characters. and a punch of humor that will leave you wanting more.Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...Romancing the Readers Facebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...ARC received for a honest review

An amazing book filled with tough issues that are handled impeccably!

Codi Gary has done it again! With emotion, humor, and a little sexy on the side, the author gives us a story that you will not be able to put down.Violet Douglas has not had an easy life and works tirelessly to put those she loves first, no matter what. Sgt. Dean Sparks is a man with a plan, but has also been struggling with what happened to him when he was overseas. These two are not looking for anything serious in their lives, but for some reason they cannot stay away from one another. With a chemistry that is undeniable, the reader will see the constant struggle between Violet and Dean. Will they be able to move past their baggage? Will they allow someone into their hearts and lives? Will Dean finally get what he wants even if he isn’t sure that he wants the same things as he once fought so hard for? Time will tell.What I love about Codi’s writing is that she gives us believable characters in real-life situations. Then she adds in a splash of the sexy with a does of humor to round out the narrative. I never walk away wishing that I got more from any of her books. With this particular story, there was an element of grit and darkness that truly enhanced the story. There is a definite serious tone to this book, but it is done in a way that you feel that the author is not exploiting any of these issues. Codi embraces the struggles and ramifications of actions on all those involved. And, honestly, the book is better for it. I am always amazed when one of my favorites gives me a story that out does all of the others before. With One Lucky Hero, Codi did just that. I cannot recommend the author or this book more. It is perfect summer reading. Hell…who am I kidding? This is perfect any season reading. So what are you waiting for? Your hero is waiting…✦ ✦ ✦ ✦Follow the Highly Caffeinated Victoria Colotta: Website | Facebook | Twitter @vcolotta | Instagram | GoodreadsFollow Art, Books, & Coffee: Website | Facebook | Twitter @ArtBooksCoffee_ | Instagram✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

ONE LUCKY HERO had me hooked from the very moment Violet and Dean met at a summer concert. It was a chance meeting that kind of got off to a rocky start, with Dean feigning disinterest to discourage Violet from thinking he's "relationship material". All she was really looking for was one night of escape from her complicated life and the spark between them seemed to indicate he'd be the perfect candidate for a bit of fun. I loved their banter and Violet's sass. So much of their initial interactions were based on reading each other's body language and playing off of their growing attraction. It really left we wanting to know where they were going to go from there and how their relationship would shift and grow.As much as they tried to limit their relationship to just a hookup, neither of them could resist the pull of their attraction. There were so many moments when they seemed to get caught in their own intrinsic gravitational pull, drifting closer without even realizing it. It's something that everyone in their vicinity could pick up on. Fate and circumstance definitely played a hand in throwing them together but there was just an inescapable draw between them that really cemented it. I mean, c'mon! These two are just incendiary when they're together. Both in public and in private. One of my favorite things about the whole story was just the way it was written. The honest, relatable language and the humor and attitude of the writing style. It was just such a pleasure to read. To say nothing of the level of emotion the author was able to portray in her characters and evoke in me. I honestly found myself experiencing that same hurt, slighted feeling in the pit of my stomach that Violet was experienced on more than one occasion. That is the kind of genuine reaction I crave from my romances! The kind that punches you in the gut and then makes it up to you by making you sweat a bit. I'm just absolutely adoring the world Codi Gary is creating in her Men in Uniform series. I'm finding myself falling for all the spunky, heroic, caring characters she's developing and can't wait to get to know them even better in the books to come. Violet and Dean's story is not to be missed! It's funny, emotional, sexy and just a plain joy to read. Highly recommend!Disclosure: I received this book free in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.

Violet has a lot of responsibility for someone her age. Raising her siblings Daisy and Casey isn't an easy task, especially not after all they've been through. Violet rarely has time to do something just for her. She wants to be young and free for a change. That's why when she does finally have the chance to go out she decides to make the night as memorable as possible. She can only handle something casual, just to have fun and that's exactly what Dean is looking for as well.Dean loves being in the army. While recovering he works with teenagers who need help putting their life back on track. It isn't what he intends to do forever though, he can't wait to be declared fit for active duty abroad again. The last thing Dean expects is meeting Violet through his job. They keep seeing each other and maybe that's a sign they should spend more time together. Will their love be able to grow or will Dean's job and Violet's busy life stand in their way?One Lucky Hero is an impressive story about two people who deserve to be happy. Violet's past was difficult and now she's taking care of her siblings. She does everything she can to keep their family together and I admired her strength, unconditional love, perseverance and determination. Dean is a good guy and I enjoyed reading about his job. What he does for the kids and how he takes care of his animals is fabulous. I like it when books have strong characters, people who do everything they can for others, even if it's a struggle sometimes, because that's who they are. This element is largely what makes One Lucky Hero a very special book.I love Codi Gary's easy flowing writing style and I like the originality of her story. It's romantic, but there are plenty of unexpected elements. I'm a big fan of books about heroes and in this case both the male and female character are equally amazing and Codi Gary writes about their problems and achievements in a beautiful empathic way. One Lucky Hero is a strong beginning of The Men in Uniform series and I can't wait to read more.

**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: https://bookbriefs.net**One Lucky Hero is the first in a new, adult contemporary romance series, called the Men in Uniform series, by Codi Gary. I loved this book! plain and simple. I really loved it. I thought it was an awesome romance full of wit, sass and good times. If you are looking for a feel good romance, this is it.Violet and Dean (and Dilbert the dog!) totally won me over. They each have their own demons, but what I loved about them is that when they are around each other they seem to be so full of life. They can push each others demons away. They felt lighter when they were together, and that just made me smile. Plus I loved their back and forth banter. I have been really into books featuring military men in some way (I think I can blame it on watching American Grit...) and One Lucky Hero has to be one of my favorites.Dean can brood with the best of them. So if that is your thing, get ready to swoon. Not to mention you get some puppy loving in this book too. Is it just me, or does a book with an adorable puppy in it automatically gain a few extra points? It totally does for me! Bring on more Dilbert! ;)In all seriousness though, One Lucky Hero is far from all lighthearted fun. There are some serious issues being dealt with by the characters and there are some serious roadblocks for them to overcome. Overall, their journey was so worth it for me. I loved the characters and I love One Lucky Hero.This review was originally posted on Book Briefs

I was so excited to read the first full book of the series after reading the novella I Need a Hero. There is just something about a tough military man who can be brought to his knees my the right woman. Dean is about as tough as they come and not looking for a relationship since he doesn't plan to stay in the area for long. But his plans begin to change when he meets Violet. Violet's life is too complicated for an actual relationship, but when one night with Dean has the opportunity to become a friends with benefits situation, she seriously considers jumping in. But then her little brother gets in trouble and lands in Dean's boot camp for boys. At first, they try to keep it professional, but the attraction is too strong to resist. There are some darker elements to their story, both in their past and in the present, but there is enough humor and love to balance is out. While Violet's family issues are well known and are very important to their story, Dean's were a bit more vague and I would have liked to have had more detail. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to the next one.I received an ARC via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review, all conclusions are my own.

ARC Review: One Lucky Hero (Men in Uniform) by Codi GaryCodi Gary is not one to shy away from hot button issues. That point is made abundantly clear throughout One Lucky Hero. From a young age life was not easy for Violet. A drug addict father, dealing with her mother's suicide and taking over the rearing of siblings was alot of responsibility for someone who missed out on the innocence of childhood. One night of escape, could end up being her saving grace or her biggest mistake. This is not the fluffy, stars in your eyes, Prince Charming romance. One Lucky Hero is a story of hard knocks, heartbreaking reveals and gritty dialogue. The truths are excruciating to say the least. The enduring legacy of One Lucky Hero is that a make-believe scenario, can end up helping someone facing similar situations in the real world. With this story Ms. Gary is making a difference and there is no greater reward than that . There is no more powerful instrument than the pen. Codi Gary proves that with One Lucky Hero.

I love Codi Gary and this book is no exception! This book made me smile, laugh and cry. Violet has had a hard life and the last thing that she is looking for is a relationship. She goes out for one night of fun and meets Dean. Dean has his own set of issues. I loved Violet and Dean together! I loved how together they began to heal. I loved all of the secondary characters too! The epilogue melted my heart. I would definitely recommend this book!

4.5