Review of Beyond the Call of Duty: Military Romantic Suspense (Wings of Gold Book 1) by Tracy Tappan
Sometimes a book comes along that perfectly caters to your urge for adventure and romance, and Beyond the Call of Duty is just that. The moment I saw the words “adrenaline junkie Navy pilot” paired with “sexy, reckless DEA agent,” I could hardly resist diving into Tracy Tappan’s electrifying story. As someone who loves intense, character-driven narratives, this book caught my attention like a moth to a flame.
A Taste of Adventure and Romance
The intertwining lives of Lieutenant Eric “LZ” O’Dwyer and Special Agent Nicole Gamboa showcase Tappan’s talent for blending heated romantic tension with a nail-biting thriller. Eric, a daring Navy pilot with a troubled family history, and Nicole, a resilient DEA agent with a secretive past, are forced into a partnership that sizzles with chemistry and clashing personalities. Tappan crafts both characters with depth, making them relatable and flawed, as they navigate their urgent mission against a ruthless drug lord.
What struck me most was the pacing—Tappan balances high-stakes action with poignant moments of introspection, ensuring that each chapter left me alternately breathless and contemplative. The humor sprinkled throughout the narrative creates a delightful contrast, allowing readers to find levity amid tension. Readers will find themselves chuckling at Eric’s cocky charm and Nicole’s fierce self-defense, making for an engaging rite of passage as they learn to trust each other.
Standout Writing Style and Narrative Techniques
Tappan’s writing is crisp and dynamic, drawing the reader into a world of fast helicopters and dangerous encounters. Her attention to detail shines through, particularly in the authentic military dialogue and the little nuances of agency operations. As the characters grapple with danger, emotions run deep, invoking genuine reactions from the reader. Lines like, “Twenty things could go wrong and nineteen of those could get us killed…” encapsulate the heart-pounding reality they face while also mirroring the complexity of their evolving relationship.
What resonated with me was Nicole’s internal struggle with vulnerability. She is powerful but afraid to let her guard down, reflecting a universal issue that many of us struggle with. The way Tappan illustrates the characters’ vulnerabilities, echoed in reviews where readers shouted "oh $h*t!" at chapter ends, speaks to her mastery in creating high-stakes emotional drama.
Concluding Thoughts
If you have a penchant for strong characters, suspenseful plots, and a dash of romance, Beyond the Call of Duty is a must-read. It’s not just a story about military operations or dangerous drug lords; it’s a narrative woven with love, fear, and the raw courage of two people learning to trust one another amidst chaos. Whether you’re a fan of military fiction, romantic suspense, or simply looking for an entertaining escape, Tappan’s work promises to deliver.
As I close the book, I find myself eager to see what lies ahead in the Wings of Gold series, knowing that I’ve encountered a novel that packs both thrills and heart—a memorable journey that I will recommend to my fellow readers with enthusiasm. So, grab your copy, and let yourself be swept away by the excitement that awaits!
You can find Beyond the Call of Duty: Military Romantic Suspense (Wings of Gold Book 1) here >>