Another great series to sink myself into.  The Refuge is where you go when your mental health is cracking.  It's all wide open spaces and tranquility.  That's what Drake (Aka Brick) needed when he was invalided out of the SEALs.  He and his friends have made an oasis of calm to help their brothers and sisters in arms.

Drake only got as far as he did with the help/encouragement of Alaska.  When she needs help when her sightseeing trip goes way wrong, Drake drops everything for her.  On their return to the USA he installs her at the Refuge knowing it's just what she needs to recuperate.

Alaska and Drake are childhood friends, admittedly Alaska had a king-size crush on him.  They drifted apart and reconnected when Alaska found out about his injuries.  She became a one-woman cheer team and they have been close ever since.  I really admired the way the author wove the back story into the prologue, gradually edging forward in time, showing how their friendship morphed over the years.

These two are just...all the things.  Older, seasoned characters with a shared history and both are stubborn!  I just lit up at the banter between them and when they decided to move their relationship up a notch...holy heck Drake when all dirty talking perfection!  All of the Refuge owners have intriguing back stories and Henley and Tonka look to be up next.  Personally, I'm waiting for a former SAS squaddie!!