Storm Rising (The Book of the Wars Book #1)

Where do I start with this review?! I have read some of Ronie Kendig’s books in the past...most recently her A Breed Apart series...so I knew I was in for a good read. But wow did she deliver in Storm Rising! There are some serious ‘on the edge of your seat’ moments and ‘one more chapter’ cliff hangers. I love the main characters: Navy SEAL Leif Metcalfe and Bulgarian operative Iskra “Viorica” Todorova. The chemistry between these two is potent, but they struggle to build trust, especially when they both have secrets and agendas vastly different from the other. The Book of the Wars, mentioned in the Old Testament, has resurfaced and both are tasked with retrieving the ancient text. But when they realize the book foretells chilling events that threaten whole nations, they must set aside their pasts and figure out how to work together...before it’s too late. Adding to the danger are a series of unnatural storms creating chaos around the world and only Leif’s team along with Iskra can stop them. Storm Rising is a fast paced, can’t put it down romantic suspense novel with a great cast of characters and a storyline that takes the reader on a wild ride from start to finish. It almost felt like it had a touch of sci fi to it. Ronie Kendig really knows how to bring military ops to life and weaves faith throughout in a subtle but tangible way. I love this story and I’m really looking forward to the second book in this series. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

This is book one in the Book of Wars series. You will want to read this book for sure before you read any more in the series. Ronie Kendig does an amazing job at keeping you interested in her books, her books are not what I would call an easy or light read. You will need to pay attention and at times you will still be a little lost. Kendig keeps you wanting more, if you love a cliff hanger and books were one must be read first then the next one to get the full story then you will love her books. They are full of suspense, action, mystery, loyalty, friendships, some romance, military and so much more. I look forward to book two. I loved the camaraderie between the team, the humor (superheroes) and mystery.

4.5 STARS!!! Every time I pick up a Kendig book, my life goes on hold. Seriously. STORM RISING is pretty much non-stop action with catchy dialogue, which I love!!! My fixation with military TV shows (especially SEAL TEAM) helped me visualize this elite group of operatives and the mission they are involved in. I will say that at first, I wasn’t a fan of Iskra as Leif’s nemesis at all. I felt kind of protective of him and didn’t want him paired with someone unworthy. I feel the same way about Clay and Stella on Seal Team ;-) BUT…I came to understand why the author chose Iskra; her particular strengths and vulnerabilities pair well with Leif, creating some intense moments as well as tender ones. I feel like if I say I can’t wait for book two I’ll be wishing away a year of my life but, Y’all, I can’t wait for book two to come out!!! Needless to say, I liked the story. A lot. It’s filled with bold and valorous characters as well as the ones you’re going to be rooting for this team of amazing operators to take down. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.