Review of Shoot to Kill: Gay Military Romantic Suspense (One of Our Own Book 1) by A.S. Decker
Sometimes a book crosses your path that promises a thrilling mix of action, romance, and a splash of mystery. Shoot to Kill, the debut entry in the One of Our Own series by A.S. Decker, caught my attention not just for its captivating premise but for its promise of deep emotional connections against a backdrop of suspense. The blend of military themes and LGBTQ+ representation piqued my curiosity, leading me into the intense world of Navy SEAL Gideon Turner and photographer John Dexter.
From the very first pages, I was drawn into Gideon’s relentless quest for justice following the murder of his friend. His determination—and the weight of loss he carries—sets the tone for a narrative rife with tension and burgeoning desire. The chemistry between him and John is palpable, making their interactions a highlight. John’s duality as a photographer and a potential suspect adds layers to his character, stirring up ambivalence and intrigue.
One theme that stands out is the exploration of vulnerability, particularly within the military context. Gideon embodies the strength expected of his role yet grapples with personal loss and the emotional toll that comes with being a soldier. Decker skillfully navigates these complexities, painting a portrait of masculinity that embraces emotional depth alongside the typical bravado.
However, I did find myself occasionally stymied by the technical execution of the prose—the dialogue at times felt clunky, and grammatical errors interrupted the narrative flow. While some readers may find this frustrating, my love for the characters and the tension kept me invested, urging me to push through. Reviews have echoed this sentiment, with many praising the dynamic between Gideon and John but lamenting the need for a thorough proofread. For instance, one reader noted, “If you can get past that [the editing], then this book is worth a read,” which I, too, can resonate with—this story holds promise that shines through its imperfections.
The pacing of the storyline felt brisk, especially toward the end where threads seemed tied up too neatly, leaving some plot points underdeveloped. The lack of resolution might be frustrating for some, but as a series starter, it does leave an inviting hook for subsequent books—an intentional strategy, I’d wager, to keep readers coming back for the unfolding mystery.
Ultimately, Shoot to Kill serves as an engaging entry for those who revel in cozy romantic suspense with a military twist. If you enjoy stories with complex characters and emotional stakes, you’ll likely find yourself rooting for Gideon and John, even as you navigate the bumps along the way. While the editing could use a fine-tuning, the heartfelt themes and charming character dynamics make this a series worth diving into for any fan of the genre.
In conclusion, Decker’s debut has left me eager for more—a promising start to what could be an exhilarating series for readers who enjoy military romance intertwined with suspense and intrigue. As I closed this book, I found myself imagining where Gideon and John’s journey might take them next, intrigued by both the romance and the underlying mystery waiting to unravel.
You can find Shoot to Kill: Gay Military Romantic Suspense (One of Our Own Book 1) here >>