Last spring, while organizing a book drive for our local library literacy program, I found myself surrounded by military histories, memoirs, and romance novels. One of the teen volunteers asked me if I ever read books about soldiers. I told her I do, especially ones that don't shy away from the trauma and resilience it takes to rebuild a life. She handed me Full Measures and said, "Start with this." She was right. Rebecca Yarros writes soldiers the way they deserve to be written—as complicated, wounded, human.
Plot Summary
Full Measures by Rebecca Yarros is the first book in the Flight & Glory series. Aces, a former Air Force pilot, is struggling with severe PTSD and grief following a tragic mission. When he meets Sam, a widow whose husband was his best friend and fellow pilot, they find unexpected solace in each other. As their connection deepens, they must navigate guilt, trauma, and the fragile possibility of moving forward together. Expect emotional intensity, high stakes, and two people learning to live beyond their pain.
Why I Love This Book
I love that Yarros treats military trauma with the gravity and authenticity it deserves. Aces isn't a romanticized hero; he's a man who struggles daily with PTSD, and watching him and Sam navigate that together is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Their connection feels earned, not rushed. The chemistry between them crackles, but what truly moves me is the tenderness—how they hold each other's broken pieces. The supporting cast enriches the story, and the flying sequences are thrilling. It's heavy, it's real, and it's absolutely gripping.
Who Will Like This Book
If you enjoy military romance, emotional depth, stories about trauma and healing, or protagonists with real psychological struggles, this is for you. This book is steamy and doesn't fade to black, but the passion serves the emotional story. Perfect for readers who want romance with substance and meaning. If you appreciate Yarros' signature blend of humor, heart, and heat, this series is essential. Fair warning: this book deals with heavy themes and will hit you emotionally.
Trigger warning: PTSD, grief, death, military trauma, suicide references, depression, combat scenarios, loss.
Tagged As
military romance, Flight & Glory #1, contemporary, PTSD, grief, healing, flying, military, trauma recovery, steamy, emotional, dark themes, protective hero, widow heroine, series
Steam Level
SpiceLevel: Explicit - The book features multiple explicit, open-door scenes integral to the emotional intimacy and connection between the protagonists. The spice is earned through their journey and growth.
