⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 out of 5

Jackson, a man that left his small-town home for the military, along with his best friend, as soon as he could and vowed never to return. He wanted nothing to do with his father anymore and vowed he’d find a life somewhere else. He also left the only woman he loved, but it was for the best. However, when his best friend is declared dead, he along with his other Delta Force teammates travel to Lindeman, WA to pay their last respects. When Jackson see’s River, his best friend’s younger sister again after sixteen years, he knows he can’t stick around too long. The old feelings for her are resurfacing, but will he leave her to her own fate when she digs for answers to her brother’s death?

River knows there’s more to the story of her brother’s death, but she doesn’t believe he’s gone. She will dig for answers and the truth, but she’ll find more danger than she bargained for. Stubborn, loyal, and determined, River will find the answers she’s looking for, but too many are telling her that Ryker is really dead, and that truth could destroy her more than the danger lurking.

I loved this story of young love, separation, and second chance at finding happiness. Jackson and River were meant for each other, and they deserve to be happy together. Both stubborn and determined, they will have to find a common ground to their past and move forward to be happy. When River’s life is threatened, Jackson steps up to protect her and keep her safe, but his feelings for her never wavered. He’s still in love with her and their story isn’t over. It took me a chapter to realize where I knew these Delta Forces characters from, but once I did things fell into place for me. The only thing I was waiting for was the appearance of Mila and then Blake and the Blue Halo guys. However, they didn’t show. The café scene was what made me think of them showing. In all the book was great, and I can’t wait to read more from the Mercy Ring Series to come. I give this book a 5-star review.