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Game of Chance #3
The Hero
In this thrilling romance, an ex-military man is on a mission to rescue a wrongfully imprisoned archaeologist—and to make her rightfully his.
Any soldier who gets out of the service with his life should be happy to leave danger behind. Though his army brothers are content running their new business in Maine, Kendric “Bob” Evans isn’t ready to give up the fight. He’s been supplementing his hours with covert rescue missions organized by the FBI. But his latest charge may be more than he bargained for.
Marlowe Kennedy is on a routine archaeology dig in Thailand when she’s arrested for drug trafficking. She has suspicions about the true culprit, but even when she’s rescued from prison, there’s nothing she can do about it without proof. Her protective bodyguard’s only objective is to keep her safe until they cross the border into friendly territory.
The best way to do that? Travel as man and wife.
After returning to Maine, as Bob and Marlowe navigate this treacherous terrain with the help of their friends, they face vengeful authorities, a vindictive frame job, and perhaps most important of all—turning their fake marriage into something real.
Any soldier who gets out of the service with his life should be happy to leave danger behind. Though his army brothers are content running their new business in Maine, Kendric “Bob” Evans isn’t ready to give up the fight. He’s been supplementing his hours with covert rescue missions organized by the FBI. But his latest charge may be more than he bargained for.
Marlowe Kennedy is on a routine archaeology dig in Thailand when she’s arrested for drug trafficking. She has suspicions about the true culprit, but even when she’s rescued from prison, there’s nothing she can do about it without proof. Her protective bodyguard’s only objective is to keep her safe until they cross the border into friendly territory.
The best way to do that? Travel as man and wife.
After returning to Maine, as Bob and Marlowe navigate this treacherous terrain with the help of their friends, they face vengeful authorities, a vindictive frame job, and perhaps most important of all—turning their fake marriage into something real.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 5, 2024
1686 people are currently reading
4391 people want to read
About the author
Susan Stoker
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New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
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For all upcoming books click here: http://www.stokeraces.com/coming-soon...
http://www.stokeraces.com/contact-1.html
New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
Follow SUSAN:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorsstoker
www.facebook.com/authorsusanstoker
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorsusanstoker
Twitter: www.twitter.com/susan_stoker
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/susan...
Amazon: http://amzn.to/238Jw8c
For all upcoming books click here: http://www.stokeraces.com/coming-soon...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 422 reviews
July 30, 2025
This is a Romantic Suspense, and this is the third book in the Game of Chance series. I have read the first two books before picking up this book (when I re-read this series I read them in order not first time I read this book), but I think you can read this book as a standalone without any problems. I will go back and read the first two books in this series. I was so happy Tex is in this series too because I have read many of Susan Stoker's other book series that have Tex in them. I love Tex's character so much. His character just shows up by phone calls and characters talking about what he said. I love all the action and suspense in this book, and the romance was cute and sweet. I loved it so much. I also love the characters so much. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
February 14, 2024
I’m sorry but this is the definition of a guilty pleasure! WHY is the hero called Bob? That is absolutely the least sexy rugged military hero name ever. And the fact that this is written in third person… so “Bob” is in every second sentence 😂 lord help me. Don’t get me started on “Punky”. Also, not Bob talking about all the other women he’s slept with right before and after they have sex for the first time.
Still though, stellar plot with lots of my favourite tropes, like instalove and caretaking and dominant hero (who’s really a big teddy bear) saving the day. Very chaotic and unrealistic and all the more entertaining for it. I will continue to shame read Susan Stoker and you should too.
Thanks Montlake for the ARC!
Still though, stellar plot with lots of my favourite tropes, like instalove and caretaking and dominant hero (who’s really a big teddy bear) saving the day. Very chaotic and unrealistic and all the more entertaining for it. I will continue to shame read Susan Stoker and you should too.
Thanks Montlake for the ARC!
February 1, 2025
This book has the same feel as all Susan stoker books.... Marlowe Kennedy finds herself in trouble in a foreign country... and Kendric "Bob" Evans was there to rescue her back home.... Hated his name "Bob" ... least sexy name in the world. And he calls her "Punky" 🤣🤣
**Instant love
**Struggling h
**Sweet H
**Chemistry/Heat 🔥🔥
Audible listen 🎶 Solid 3.75 rating. It was longer than it needed to be.
**Instant love
**Struggling h
**Sweet H
**Chemistry/Heat 🔥🔥
Audible listen 🎶 Solid 3.75 rating. It was longer than it needed to be.
February 8, 2024
I loved how this starts out right in the action. It made for a fast paced read and I was enthralled with their journey. Marlowe was such a strong heroine. I loved how she handled every situation and she was easy to love. Bob aka Kendric was also very easy to love. His protectiveness from the very start is what I love to see in Heroes! This was a fun read and I can't wait to get April and JJ's book!
February 12, 2024
The author clearly titles each book in The Game of Chance series, what you see is what you get! Kendric is a Hero for sure, even though he wouldn't choose that moniker. At first, I thought Marlowe was going to be a weak heroine but thankfully I was proven wrong. Their trek through Thailand would've broken most but they persevered. You find out if someone is meant for you at the worst times not the best ones. This could be read as a stand alone or take a chance and read a great series!
February 10, 2024
This was everything I had hoped for and more 🥹😍
Kendric and Marlowe are so perfect for each other. I have no words. The way they bond in the crazy situation they’re in was so beautiful to watch. The ceremony though.. 🥹 Everything happens for a reason and they’re such a great example of that. Marlowe is such a badass even though she doesn’t think so which just makes her more lovable. And Kendric.. that man is what we all wish we could have. He’s so sweet and dependable but doesn’t sugar coat anything. I’m obsessed with these two.
This series has me in an absolute chokehold and after that ending, I’m DYING for JJ and April’s story!
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review with my honest opinion.*
Kendric and Marlowe are so perfect for each other. I have no words. The way they bond in the crazy situation they’re in was so beautiful to watch. The ceremony though.. 🥹 Everything happens for a reason and they’re such a great example of that. Marlowe is such a badass even though she doesn’t think so which just makes her more lovable. And Kendric.. that man is what we all wish we could have. He’s so sweet and dependable but doesn’t sugar coat anything. I’m obsessed with these two.
This series has me in an absolute chokehold and after that ending, I’m DYING for JJ and April’s story!
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review with my honest opinion.*
March 23, 2024
I love Susan Stoker but for the love of me, I couldn't get over all of the over-the-top stuff. From the insta-lust to the whole marriage thing to their life after they cross the border. There were too many stuff that were hard to believe. If it were one or two I would have been 100% fine with everything. I know SS's writing and in this book, it was a little disappointing. I didn't have much trouble reading it though and I ended the book thinking mainly good thoughts. The thoughts after were the problem. Despite all that, I know I will be reading JJ and April's book because the amnesia trope is one of my favorite ones and I look forward to seeing these two work things out.
March 18, 2024
I have very mixed feelings about this book, so I'm gonna say three stars.
The MMC is Kendrick (Everyone calls him Bob, and that's not an attractive name IMO. Also, the confusion with using both the names... not my fave.) He worked in the military and after being held captive with his friends, started a business with them, leaving the army. Hiding this from his friends, Kendric helps Americans wrongfully imprisoned to flee jail. His latest mission is to help Marlowe- an archeologist accused of drug dealing.
Now the story from here is an insta/fated love story as the MCs journey across the country towards the border. Not being the biggest fan of this trope, I found it hard to believe at first, though the writing style was quite captivating. There's a lot of tropes involved in the book, including marriage of convenience. I haven't read much of it, definitely not this variation, Again, I have mixed views about it... Didn't love it, didn't hate it. I liked how the MCs sort of bonded over their trauma while held captive, but I think it could've been done better.
Onto the things that really irked me.
Kendrick's emphasis on how strong and resilient Marlowe is. He says it more than 10 times and personally, I'd had enough of it. Like yea, I get it, you can stop. It just felt like an obvious example of 'telling instead of showing.'
I constantly felt that Kendrick was overshadowing Marlow (it's been a week since I read this book and I've read many others between, and this is what stuck with me). To me, it was his perspective that dominated Marlowe's, him being the Alpha, protective male: Marlowe the supposed brave one but we don't see much of her take.
The whole pregnancy talk was plain stupid. Just wanting to have kids at some point in the future doesn't make it ok for someone to not use protection, especially when clearly undernourished.
Kendrick making some irresponsible decisions which compromised on their health and safety. I get that it was crucial for the next part of the plot to shine, but I didn't expect this from him.
As I said before, the writing was one of the strong points of the story and after reading a preview of the next book in the series, I'm definitely gonna read it. The next novel follows JJ and April, using the amnesia trope which I adore, so I'm excited! I can't decide on whether to recommend this book or not, but after reading the review, I hope you can decide for yourselves.
PS- I haven't read the other two books in the series, nor have I read any other works of the author. Also, as it's been a while since I finished the novel, my review may not be very accurate so apologies for that.
The MMC is Kendrick (Everyone calls him Bob, and that's not an attractive name IMO. Also, the confusion with using both the names... not my fave.) He worked in the military and after being held captive with his friends, started a business with them, leaving the army. Hiding this from his friends, Kendric helps Americans wrongfully imprisoned to flee jail. His latest mission is to help Marlowe- an archeologist accused of drug dealing.
Now the story from here is an insta/fated love story as the MCs journey across the country towards the border. Not being the biggest fan of this trope, I found it hard to believe at first, though the writing style was quite captivating. There's a lot of tropes involved in the book, including marriage of convenience. I haven't read much of it, definitely not this variation, Again, I have mixed views about it... Didn't love it, didn't hate it. I liked how the MCs sort of bonded over their trauma while held captive, but I think it could've been done better.
Onto the things that really irked me.
Kendrick's emphasis on how strong and resilient Marlowe is. He says it more than 10 times and personally, I'd had enough of it. Like yea, I get it, you can stop. It just felt like an obvious example of 'telling instead of showing.'
I constantly felt that Kendrick was overshadowing Marlow (it's been a week since I read this book and I've read many others between, and this is what stuck with me). To me, it was his perspective that dominated Marlowe's, him being the Alpha, protective male: Marlowe the supposed brave one but we don't see much of her take.
The whole pregnancy talk was plain stupid. Just wanting to have kids at some point in the future doesn't make it ok for someone to not use protection, especially when clearly undernourished.
Kendrick making some irresponsible decisions which compromised on their health and safety. I get that it was crucial for the next part of the plot to shine, but I didn't expect this from him.
As I said before, the writing was one of the strong points of the story and after reading a preview of the next book in the series, I'm definitely gonna read it. The next novel follows JJ and April, using the amnesia trope which I adore, so I'm excited! I can't decide on whether to recommend this book or not, but after reading the review, I hope you can decide for yourselves.
PS- I haven't read the other two books in the series, nor have I read any other works of the author. Also, as it's been a while since I finished the novel, my review may not be very accurate so apologies for that.
March 5, 2024
Suspense and an edge-of-your-seat escape.
Four men in captivity play a game of rock, paper, scissors to determine where they’ll live and what they’ll do after they leave the Army. They settle in Newton, Maine, and open a Lumberjack and trail guide business. Kendric “Bob” Evans has been lying to his friends for five years. While the other three men in his former unit have been at peace working and living in Maine, Kendric has continued to take on rescue missions around the world to save Americans in trouble. His latest op is to save an anthropologist Marlow Kennedy, wrongfully imprisoned in Thailand. Marlow has been hanging on by a thread living in the worst conditions, packed in with hundreds of women when a stranger visits her in prison. She has been sentenced to life because of drugs someone planted in her bags on her current dig. She’s just about lost all hope of getting out.
I loved the fast-paced escape and the instant connection between Kendric and Marlow. Their marriage of convenience, and only one “bed”. Once they return to Maine and Marlow begins to settle into her new life, danger visits once again as only this author can create. It feels like coming home to a great cup of tea, a warm fire, and a good book when I read a Susan Stoker story. This series, while a bit different from her others, still has everything you want and enjoy in one of her books. I’m excited to see what happens to JJ in the final book of the Game of Chance series.
Four men in captivity play a game of rock, paper, scissors to determine where they’ll live and what they’ll do after they leave the Army. They settle in Newton, Maine, and open a Lumberjack and trail guide business. Kendric “Bob” Evans has been lying to his friends for five years. While the other three men in his former unit have been at peace working and living in Maine, Kendric has continued to take on rescue missions around the world to save Americans in trouble. His latest op is to save an anthropologist Marlow Kennedy, wrongfully imprisoned in Thailand. Marlow has been hanging on by a thread living in the worst conditions, packed in with hundreds of women when a stranger visits her in prison. She has been sentenced to life because of drugs someone planted in her bags on her current dig. She’s just about lost all hope of getting out.
I loved the fast-paced escape and the instant connection between Kendric and Marlow. Their marriage of convenience, and only one “bed”. Once they return to Maine and Marlow begins to settle into her new life, danger visits once again as only this author can create. It feels like coming home to a great cup of tea, a warm fire, and a good book when I read a Susan Stoker story. This series, while a bit different from her others, still has everything you want and enjoy in one of her books. I’m excited to see what happens to JJ in the final book of the Game of Chance series.
August 16, 2024
Gimme gimme gimme…
I eat these books up, and The Hero was soooooo Susan Stoker.
📕 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The Hero by Susan Stoker
📙 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Game of Chance character series. Book 3.
📗 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: Audiobook on Kindle. 🆓 on KU to read & listen.
📘 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Romantic suspense
📔 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Military/veteran, instalove.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Marlowe is stuck in a Thailand prison after being falsely accused of drug possession. Kendric “Bob” Evans takes a private mission for her rescue, only to fall for Marlowe as they brave the jungle escape.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: Don’t get me wrong, I don’t have any issues with Susan Stoker books. But the ones where they’re rescue missions and they all fall in love immediately? I eat them up.
Bob and Marlowe were so good. My husband even was getting into the story as we went. It’s spicy and sweet and there’s so much suspense I always know that even though things will turn out ok, I’m going to be on the edge of my seat.
I have to be honest, book four is what I’ve been waiting for. But The Hero was a super good story and reaffirmed why I love Susan Stoker so much.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 3/5 🌶🌶🌶
I eat these books up, and The Hero was soooooo Susan Stoker.
📕 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The Hero by Susan Stoker
📙 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Game of Chance character series. Book 3.
📗 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: Audiobook on Kindle. 🆓 on KU to read & listen.
📘 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Romantic suspense
📔 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Military/veteran, instalove.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Marlowe is stuck in a Thailand prison after being falsely accused of drug possession. Kendric “Bob” Evans takes a private mission for her rescue, only to fall for Marlowe as they brave the jungle escape.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: Don’t get me wrong, I don’t have any issues with Susan Stoker books. But the ones where they’re rescue missions and they all fall in love immediately? I eat them up.
Bob and Marlowe were so good. My husband even was getting into the story as we went. It’s spicy and sweet and there’s so much suspense I always know that even though things will turn out ok, I’m going to be on the edge of my seat.
I have to be honest, book four is what I’ve been waiting for. But The Hero was a super good story and reaffirmed why I love Susan Stoker so much.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 3/5 🌶🌶🌶
November 12, 2025
Fun read, action and suspense which I like. Marlowe is a strong female lead which I also like in a story. I can't wait to read June's story
February 8, 2024
I am completely blown away by how much I enjoyed this book. I have had several Susan Stoker books on my kindle for years that have gone unread. Now I can’t wait to go back and read the other books in the series.
Marlowe and Kendric had the most unconventional not-so cute meet cute. Right from the start, they were amazing characters both full of strength and determination and both knowing they had found the one. The spark was immediate and their connection and chemistry palpable. You cheered when things went well for them because the author threw obstacles at them. From the prison break to the royal plane ride home, our couples fought through challenges, but you never felt like their relationship was forced. It was beautiful to watch their love bloom even when sleeping under the floor or crossing a gross canal. Their love strengthened with each obstacle overcame.
I loved the first part of the book which I call out of Thailand but about midway, we got something more from the book. We got all the feels. When Marlowe took a chance to reach out to Kendric’s friends to get him home the feels started and didn’t let up until they were back stateside.
No longer will I let book by Susan Stoker sit on kindle unread. This is the third book in this series, and you get a chance to get a brief synopsis of the other stories. The brief synopsis made me want to read those books very much. I absolutely loved this book. It has been a while since I read a book where everything can together to create a book that kept you turning the pages and reluctant to set the book down.
Thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Marlowe and Kendric had the most unconventional not-so cute meet cute. Right from the start, they were amazing characters both full of strength and determination and both knowing they had found the one. The spark was immediate and their connection and chemistry palpable. You cheered when things went well for them because the author threw obstacles at them. From the prison break to the royal plane ride home, our couples fought through challenges, but you never felt like their relationship was forced. It was beautiful to watch their love bloom even when sleeping under the floor or crossing a gross canal. Their love strengthened with each obstacle overcame.
I loved the first part of the book which I call out of Thailand but about midway, we got something more from the book. We got all the feels. When Marlowe took a chance to reach out to Kendric’s friends to get him home the feels started and didn’t let up until they were back stateside.
No longer will I let book by Susan Stoker sit on kindle unread. This is the third book in this series, and you get a chance to get a brief synopsis of the other stories. The brief synopsis made me want to read those books very much. I absolutely loved this book. It has been a while since I read a book where everything can together to create a book that kept you turning the pages and reluctant to set the book down.
Thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for the opportunity to read this ARC.
February 11, 2024
Kendric and Marlowe❣️
The Hero is the third book in the Game of Chance series and focuses on Kendric aka Bob and Marlowe.
Marlowe is an archaeologist working at a site in Thailand when she is suddenly arrested and put in prison. Bob takes jobs from a guy called Willis, from the FBI, to help Americans when they find themselves in trouble in foreign countries. He’s been doing this for a while - but he hasn’t let his friends know😢
To cut a long story short, Bob is called in to get Marlowe out of prison and then to get her back to the US. However, their escape is hampered by all sorts of obstacles…😳
I really loved this story and could not put it down❣️I loved Kendric and Marlowe together and how she fit seamlessly into their lives like she’d always been a part of their group. I’m excited for the next book and to find out what happens between April and JJ. I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and willingly leave my honest opinion❤️
The Hero is the third book in the Game of Chance series and focuses on Kendric aka Bob and Marlowe.
Marlowe is an archaeologist working at a site in Thailand when she is suddenly arrested and put in prison. Bob takes jobs from a guy called Willis, from the FBI, to help Americans when they find themselves in trouble in foreign countries. He’s been doing this for a while - but he hasn’t let his friends know😢
To cut a long story short, Bob is called in to get Marlowe out of prison and then to get her back to the US. However, their escape is hampered by all sorts of obstacles…😳
I really loved this story and could not put it down❣️I loved Kendric and Marlowe together and how she fit seamlessly into their lives like she’d always been a part of their group. I’m excited for the next book and to find out what happens between April and JJ. I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and willingly leave my honest opinion❤️
February 7, 2024
This story will capture your attention right away!
As in the very first few pages.
We meet Marlowe in prison for a crime she didn’t commit in a country she doesn’t know how to speak the language. A few more pages later we meet Kendrick who is claiming to be her lawyer. Of course we already know who he is from the previous stories.
Kendrick is a bad a who knows how to get things into motion. He helps Marlowe escape from prison and then over an action packed part of the book arrive back in the US.
I greatly enjoyed this one!
Definitely in my top 10 by this author - maybe top 5.
**I made the mistake of reading chapter 1 of the next story and now I can hardly wait: I just know that’s going to be a good one!
As in the very first few pages.
We meet Marlowe in prison for a crime she didn’t commit in a country she doesn’t know how to speak the language. A few more pages later we meet Kendrick who is claiming to be her lawyer. Of course we already know who he is from the previous stories.
Kendrick is a bad a who knows how to get things into motion. He helps Marlowe escape from prison and then over an action packed part of the book arrive back in the US.
I greatly enjoyed this one!
Definitely in my top 10 by this author - maybe top 5.
**I made the mistake of reading chapter 1 of the next story and now I can hardly wait: I just know that’s going to be a good one!
February 29, 2024
The third book in Susan Stoker’s Game of Chance series, and it’s an engaging fast paced read. Kendric “Bob” Evans is living a secret life and finds himself in Thailand as he attempts to rescue Marlowe Kennedy who has found herself in a hopeless situation for crimes she hasn’t committed. The attraction for these two is immediate as they are thrown together attempting to escape danger while gaining their freedom. The twists and turns keep coming but there’s a solid team that pulls out all the stops to ensure an HEA both Kendric and Marlowe deserve.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this title!
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this title!
November 30, 2025
Will she become his biggest regret....
....and his proudest accomplishment?
Or is he brave enough to claim everything his heart craves. Kendrick has already had his life flash before his eyes, has been on death's door and knows just how valuable life and love are, so seeing him take a chance and grab the possibility of a future with Harlowe with both hands is beautiful. He just needs to keep them both alive, get them to and then across the border, on a plane out of the country and then convince her to move to Maine....easy right?
Their daring prison break and being on the run across the country allows Kendrick and Harlowe to get to know each other in a way few do, they see each other's strengths, weaknesses, hopes and fears, it also terrifies them both away from future travel...they cannot wait to get back to the US.
I have loved every book in the series, JJ, Cal, Bob and Chappy are awesome, they may be battered, dinted, traumatised and suffering from PTSD, but they are determined to move on and to make their lives count, they have everything to live for, which their amazing, feisty women remind them every day! I am really looking forward to the final book and what will surely be an explosive connection between JJ and April when they finally, finally come together.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
....and his proudest accomplishment?
Or is he brave enough to claim everything his heart craves. Kendrick has already had his life flash before his eyes, has been on death's door and knows just how valuable life and love are, so seeing him take a chance and grab the possibility of a future with Harlowe with both hands is beautiful. He just needs to keep them both alive, get them to and then across the border, on a plane out of the country and then convince her to move to Maine....easy right?
Their daring prison break and being on the run across the country allows Kendrick and Harlowe to get to know each other in a way few do, they see each other's strengths, weaknesses, hopes and fears, it also terrifies them both away from future travel...they cannot wait to get back to the US.
I have loved every book in the series, JJ, Cal, Bob and Chappy are awesome, they may be battered, dinted, traumatised and suffering from PTSD, but they are determined to move on and to make their lives count, they have everything to live for, which their amazing, feisty women remind them every day! I am really looking forward to the final book and what will surely be an explosive connection between JJ and April when they finally, finally come together.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
July 7, 2024
The best thing about this book? The end.
April 18, 2025
Chris McGranitt - per RFS
.
Salve a tutti,
finalmente ritorno in pista leggendo un libro che era quasi, dico quasi, scontato, che fosse una garanzia per me; seguo quest’autrice dalla sua prima serie e non ho mancato un suo romanzo, a volte li ho amati altre odiati, ma ciò non toglie che possiede la capacità di attirarmi, quindi, spinta dalla curiosità mi sono tuffata in questa nuova avventura.
Senza alcun indugio passiamo alla trama che ho trovato assolutamente accattivante; la protagonista femminile Marlowe Kennedy è un’archeologa, rinchiusa in una prigione thailandese, dalla quale ha pochissime speranze di uscire, poiché accusata di traffico di droga reato punito severamente. La giovane ha però un fratello determinato a liberarla e tramite alcuni contatti trova un personaggio noto a chi ha letto i precedenti libri, ovvero Kendrick “Bob” Evans. Infatti dopo essersi congedato, è ritornato alla vita civile nel Maine insieme ai suoi migliori amici; si sente irrequieto ma per non deluderli decide di non coinvolgerli nella sua attività extra per conto dell’FBI pur di recuperare un po’ di adrenalina. Quando viene ingaggiato per salvare Marlowe sarà solo e una missione che sembrava essere semplice si rivelerà non esserlo poi così tanto. Ovviamente quale potrebbe essere una soluzione? Un’evasione e un matrimonio, ma il confine tra realtà e finzione è molto labile quindi dovremo aspettare la fine del romanzo per capire come si comporteranno i nostri eroi.
Dire che il libro mi ha entusiasmata è dire poco. Rispetto ai romanzi precedenti, i personaggi sono descritti fisicamente senza scendere in dettagli ossessivi, lasciando più spazio al carattere, ai pensieri, alle preoccupazioni; ciò li ha resi a tutti gli effetti più umani e realisti. Le situazioni spesso e volentieri li porteranno al limite, mettendoli alla prova, e a una maggiore consapevolezza di loro stessi. Forse è proprio questo uno dei punti forti della storia! Un viaggio crudo e vero nei propri sentimenti, analizzati in modo onesto senza finzioni.
L’eroe è scritto dal punto di vista di entrambi i protagonisti, che permette una visuale completa delle loro caratteristiche e dei loro tumulti interiori, lasciando al lettore la possibilità di provare le stesse emozioni suscitate dai loro momenti più intensi. L’autrice inoltre ha sapientemente bilanciato dialoghi con descrizioni vivide e, per non deluderci, ha anche aggiunto scene piccanti che comunque non diventano e non sono il fulcro della storia.
In conclusione è un romanzo che parla di onestà con se stessi e verso gli altri senza tanti giri di parole, amore e fiducia, e anche di riscatto. L’ho trovato completo oltre che scritto bene.
Assolutamente approvato e consigliato.
.
Salve a tutti,
finalmente ritorno in pista leggendo un libro che era quasi, dico quasi, scontato, che fosse una garanzia per me; seguo quest’autrice dalla sua prima serie e non ho mancato un suo romanzo, a volte li ho amati altre odiati, ma ciò non toglie che possiede la capacità di attirarmi, quindi, spinta dalla curiosità mi sono tuffata in questa nuova avventura.
Senza alcun indugio passiamo alla trama che ho trovato assolutamente accattivante; la protagonista femminile Marlowe Kennedy è un’archeologa, rinchiusa in una prigione thailandese, dalla quale ha pochissime speranze di uscire, poiché accusata di traffico di droga reato punito severamente. La giovane ha però un fratello determinato a liberarla e tramite alcuni contatti trova un personaggio noto a chi ha letto i precedenti libri, ovvero Kendrick “Bob” Evans. Infatti dopo essersi congedato, è ritornato alla vita civile nel Maine insieme ai suoi migliori amici; si sente irrequieto ma per non deluderli decide di non coinvolgerli nella sua attività extra per conto dell’FBI pur di recuperare un po’ di adrenalina. Quando viene ingaggiato per salvare Marlowe sarà solo e una missione che sembrava essere semplice si rivelerà non esserlo poi così tanto. Ovviamente quale potrebbe essere una soluzione? Un’evasione e un matrimonio, ma il confine tra realtà e finzione è molto labile quindi dovremo aspettare la fine del romanzo per capire come si comporteranno i nostri eroi.
Dire che il libro mi ha entusiasmata è dire poco. Rispetto ai romanzi precedenti, i personaggi sono descritti fisicamente senza scendere in dettagli ossessivi, lasciando più spazio al carattere, ai pensieri, alle preoccupazioni; ciò li ha resi a tutti gli effetti più umani e realisti. Le situazioni spesso e volentieri li porteranno al limite, mettendoli alla prova, e a una maggiore consapevolezza di loro stessi. Forse è proprio questo uno dei punti forti della storia! Un viaggio crudo e vero nei propri sentimenti, analizzati in modo onesto senza finzioni.
L’eroe è scritto dal punto di vista di entrambi i protagonisti, che permette una visuale completa delle loro caratteristiche e dei loro tumulti interiori, lasciando al lettore la possibilità di provare le stesse emozioni suscitate dai loro momenti più intensi. L’autrice inoltre ha sapientemente bilanciato dialoghi con descrizioni vivide e, per non deluderci, ha anche aggiunto scene piccanti che comunque non diventano e non sono il fulcro della storia.
In conclusione è un romanzo che parla di onestà con se stessi e verso gli altri senza tanti giri di parole, amore e fiducia, e anche di riscatto. L’ho trovato completo oltre che scritto bene.
Assolutamente approvato e consigliato.
March 5, 2024
I was engrossed with this book! It kept me on the edge of my seat. There was a lot of action and adventure while Kendrick worked to free Marlowe from prison and get her back home. I liked that both characters were complex and well written. I enjoyed how protective Kendrick was and Marlowe's strength and bravery. I loved the instant connection between Kendrick and Marlowe and how Kendrick knew after their first kiss that she was the one. All the secondary characters were wonderful. Kendrick's friends made me laugh, and I appreciated how supportive they were of one another. I can't wait for JJ and April's book!
August 29, 2024
The first half was great. Really exciting as Bob and Marlowe worked to escape Thailand. But things slowed down quite a bit once they got back to the states and they did the whole day-to-day thing for a while. But the ending picked up again. The romance and the adventure was pretty good, but this one wasn’t quite as good as book two. I really like all of these characters, though. It’s been fun watching all of the guys find their loves. 3.5 stars.
February 20, 2024
I've read a lot of Susan Stoker and I enjoy how I can count on her stories to give me a brain break and this one delivered. My favorite parts where when Marlowe and Kendrick were on the run. It is very much an insta-love romance but I enjoyed all the action that was tied in as well. I also love that the characters from the other books make appearances and how the FMCs all get along.
This would be a good read if you like:
Ex military MMC
Insta-Love
One Bed
Marriage of Convenience
My only critiques are it was a choice having a main character with the nickname Bob. Also sometimes the dialogue or some of the situations felt so out there, I found it took me out of the story sometimes.
These things didn't stop me from enjoying the story and I will be reading more Susan Stoker books.
This would be a good read if you like:
Ex military MMC
Insta-Love
One Bed
Marriage of Convenience
My only critiques are it was a choice having a main character with the nickname Bob. Also sometimes the dialogue or some of the situations felt so out there, I found it took me out of the story sometimes.
These things didn't stop me from enjoying the story and I will be reading more Susan Stoker books.
February 8, 2024
Fantastic book! This series keeps getting better and better! This novel has Kendrick staging a rescue of a wrongfully imprisoned American in a Thailand prison. She was set up by a coworker and Kendrick will do whatever it takes to get her free.
This novel is filled with fast paced action that had me flipping pages just as quickly as possible to see what happened next. I stayed up way too late finishing this book, but it was worth it....
This one is a must read for fans of the genre. While this is part of a series, this is a stand alone novel - however it's so good that you really owe it to yourself to read them all. The author is on my must read authors' list.
This novel is filled with fast paced action that had me flipping pages just as quickly as possible to see what happened next. I stayed up way too late finishing this book, but it was worth it....
This one is a must read for fans of the genre. While this is part of a series, this is a stand alone novel - however it's so good that you really owe it to yourself to read them all. The author is on my must read authors' list.
February 6, 2024
That was a whirlwind of a romance and suspense! We start out in a women’s Thai prison and end up in a small town in Maine, and a whole lot of things happened in-between those two situations. Marlowe and Kendric connected right away, but they were in a whole lot of danger and on the run. The pace of the story kept things moving quickly, and you felt the urgency in their situation. They weren’t done once they were supposedly safe, as the threats were still out there. More danger before they can finally settle into the life they have been missing. Loved how this found family bonds together, how they support and are there for each other, and how much they feel and love
February 5, 2024
This story has danger, suspense, running to avoid capture and trying to get back to the states. Kendric wasn't content to just be a lumberjack, he went on rescue missions, that's how he heard about Marlowe. They have a long trip to get back to the states and safety. HEA.
May 19, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The Hero kicks off with our archaeologist Heroine Marlowe, stuck in a Thai prison sweatshop wrongly locked up regarding drugs. Kendric “Bob” Evans has been hiding his “extracurricular” contract missions for the FBI from his buddies. When he’s enlisted to help get Marlowe out of her prison and back to the US, they run into a few snags.
I’m always a sucker for Stoker’s books and the Game of Chance series has been no different. I really enjoyed the time that Marlowe and Kendric have together to get to know each other and form a relationship prior to their return to the US. Game of Chance has really focused on some faster relationship developments but also allowing our main characters time to get to know each other by themselves. This story was super fast paced and had plenty of action. I enjoyed seeing more of Kendric and learning more about how he’s dealt with life post his POW time since he’s seemed to have a different experience adapting compared to Chappy and Cal in the previous books.
I’m excited as ever to get to the final book in the Game of Chance series!
The Hero kicks off with our archaeologist Heroine Marlowe, stuck in a Thai prison sweatshop wrongly locked up regarding drugs. Kendric “Bob” Evans has been hiding his “extracurricular” contract missions for the FBI from his buddies. When he’s enlisted to help get Marlowe out of her prison and back to the US, they run into a few snags.
I’m always a sucker for Stoker’s books and the Game of Chance series has been no different. I really enjoyed the time that Marlowe and Kendric have together to get to know each other and form a relationship prior to their return to the US. Game of Chance has really focused on some faster relationship developments but also allowing our main characters time to get to know each other by themselves. This story was super fast paced and had plenty of action. I enjoyed seeing more of Kendric and learning more about how he’s dealt with life post his POW time since he’s seemed to have a different experience adapting compared to Chappy and Cal in the previous books.
I’m excited as ever to get to the final book in the Game of Chance series!
July 28, 2024
I need to start rating books by the number of times I roll my eyes or say OMG (and not in a good way)!
March 21, 2024
Check out our full post for THE HERO on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆☆
4.5 stars
M/F Romance
Kendric Evans (aka Bob) loves his friends. He loves his life too. However, something is missing. He misses the thrill of the mission. When he realizes that he can have his friends' backs in Maine, but also continue doing missions on his own, he knows this is his calling. While on a mission, Bob has the chance to help Marlowe.
Marlowe is an archeologist. It's not something she ever thought she'd be doing. Instead, she kind of fell into the career. And while she does love finding new things, her real desire is to be more settled. Marlowe now finds herself living in a foreign prison for something she knows she didn't do.
When Bob helps Marlowe escape, they will have to lean on each other much sooner than they thought. Both will need to trust the other and will have to hope that they can make it out alive.
When forces back home threaten their newfound peace, Bob will need to come clean about his missions and his friends will have to step up.
You won't be disappointed in this book. It's fast paced and a great story. I can't wait for more.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the third book in a very enjoyable series about a group of retired military men who have settled down in business together and are finding their ways in the non-combat world, coping with their nightmares and the slower pace of life. But one of them can't quite let go of the excitement and has been doing recovery missions for the FBI on the quiet.
I really liked the idea that at least one of the guys found rural life a little difficult to take, and wanted to actively seek out adventure. It is even more enjoyable that on this occasion, he too would find the very reason he needed to move forward in life. It works on so many levels – him relying on his friends in his time of urgent need, their acceptance of his need for excitement, but also their joy for him as his life takes a new, safer shape.
Marlowe is an interesting person, clearly a competent archeologist, but actually she fell into it by chance and, like many people, craves a more settled life, just as everything goes wrong. Kendric (aka Bob) rescues her just in time, and their escape involves a most unexpected, but fortuitous union. Now to see if they can be honest with each other and make it work!
It was good to catch up with the rest of the guys and see how their relationships are developing – I am already looking forward to the next installment.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
March 4, 2024
Breaking an innocent woman out of a prison in Thailand turns out to be the easy part….
Archaeologist Marlowe Kennedy was working on a dig in Thailand when she was arrested and convicted for possession of drugs, a crime on which the government is cracking down. She is struggling to stay alive and maintains hope that someone will prove her innocence and get her released. Enter Kendric Evans (known as Bob because, well, of course), a former elite soldier who (along with the three military “brothers” who had endured captivity with him when their final mission went south) has reinvented his life in a small Maine town running a business together with his friends. Bob still feels the need for the adrenaline rush that his former life provided from time to time, and unbeknownst to his three partners takes an occasional job doing rescue work for a man named Willis. When Marlowe’s brother realizes that he is out of conventional options, he contacts Willis, and Willis in turn assigns the job of freeing Marlowe to Bob. Breaking her out of the prison where Marlowe is living a miserable existence is only the first of many dangerous and seemingly impossible obstacles….getting her out of Thailand and into Cambodia, evading a major law enforcement dragnet, and then smuggling her out of Cambodia all while using Willis’ network of paid facilitators who are not above turning someone in for a second payday, will take skill and lots of luck. Danger is waiting around every corner, and even if they make it back to the US there is still a threat hanging over Mallory’s head.
The Hero is the third in author Susan Stoker’s “Game of Chance” series, although it isn’t necessary to have read the two previous installments to enjoy this latest entry. Each book focuses on a different soldier in the group of four who survived torture and captivity before being rescued, and this time it is Bob’s turn. A mutual attraction springs up almost instantly between Marlowe and Bob, and it quickly becomes more than just a job to get her home….for Bob, it is a mission at which he refuses to fail. Strong, brave, and still bearing the emotional scars of his imprisonment, Bob is a likable hero (though I would find it hard to forgive someone saddling me with the moniker of “Punky”, as he does to Marlowe. Seriously, what woman wants to be likened to Punky Brewster?). Marlowe is sensible, and is learning to embrace the suck in order to get free of this nightmare. The action starts right in the first chapter, and continues nonstop as the two struggle to get out of Thailand and to ultimately get back to the US, all the while wondering how to make the legal situation right. A former co-worker from the archaeological dig may have set Marlowe up, and if so Bob is not going to let that action go without repercussions. A quick, satisfying read for those who have read Ms Stoker’s previous titles as well as for fans of authors like Maya Banks, Suzanne Brockmann, and Kat Martin. Many thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for allowing me access to an early copy of The Hero. .
Archaeologist Marlowe Kennedy was working on a dig in Thailand when she was arrested and convicted for possession of drugs, a crime on which the government is cracking down. She is struggling to stay alive and maintains hope that someone will prove her innocence and get her released. Enter Kendric Evans (known as Bob because, well, of course), a former elite soldier who (along with the three military “brothers” who had endured captivity with him when their final mission went south) has reinvented his life in a small Maine town running a business together with his friends. Bob still feels the need for the adrenaline rush that his former life provided from time to time, and unbeknownst to his three partners takes an occasional job doing rescue work for a man named Willis. When Marlowe’s brother realizes that he is out of conventional options, he contacts Willis, and Willis in turn assigns the job of freeing Marlowe to Bob. Breaking her out of the prison where Marlowe is living a miserable existence is only the first of many dangerous and seemingly impossible obstacles….getting her out of Thailand and into Cambodia, evading a major law enforcement dragnet, and then smuggling her out of Cambodia all while using Willis’ network of paid facilitators who are not above turning someone in for a second payday, will take skill and lots of luck. Danger is waiting around every corner, and even if they make it back to the US there is still a threat hanging over Mallory’s head.
The Hero is the third in author Susan Stoker’s “Game of Chance” series, although it isn’t necessary to have read the two previous installments to enjoy this latest entry. Each book focuses on a different soldier in the group of four who survived torture and captivity before being rescued, and this time it is Bob’s turn. A mutual attraction springs up almost instantly between Marlowe and Bob, and it quickly becomes more than just a job to get her home….for Bob, it is a mission at which he refuses to fail. Strong, brave, and still bearing the emotional scars of his imprisonment, Bob is a likable hero (though I would find it hard to forgive someone saddling me with the moniker of “Punky”, as he does to Marlowe. Seriously, what woman wants to be likened to Punky Brewster?). Marlowe is sensible, and is learning to embrace the suck in order to get free of this nightmare. The action starts right in the first chapter, and continues nonstop as the two struggle to get out of Thailand and to ultimately get back to the US, all the while wondering how to make the legal situation right. A former co-worker from the archaeological dig may have set Marlowe up, and if so Bob is not going to let that action go without repercussions. A quick, satisfying read for those who have read Ms Stoker’s previous titles as well as for fans of authors like Maya Banks, Suzanne Brockmann, and Kat Martin. Many thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for allowing me access to an early copy of The Hero. .
March 2, 2024
The Hero is the third book in Susan Stoker’s amazing romantic suspense series called Game of Chance. The story has amazing, well developed characters, intense chemistry and a fantastic storyline that is written from the third person point of view of the hero and heroine.
Former Marine Kendric “Bob” Evans has been sent to Thailand to rescue archaeologist Marlowe Kennedy, after she was framed and arrested for drug trafficking. Her escape and their journey out of the country is filled with peril and only the fact that they travel as husband and wife are they able to evade capture. Despite safely arriving in Maine, Marlowe can’t start over without clearing her name and finding out who frame. Together with Kendric and her new found friends, they work together to catch the culprit. But will they be able to save Marlowe when she’s taken? Read it and find out.
Stoker did a phenomenal job of combining the elements of suspense, drama and romance in order to keep the reader hanging on and on the edge of their seats of this beautiful story of trust, love and perseverance. The chemistry between Kendric and Marlow was evident from the start, but it was the trust and deeply emotional bond between them that made them my favourite couple in the series so far. I love the men of Jack’s Lumber and I can’t wait to read JJ and April’s story.
This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy received from Netgalley.
Former Marine Kendric “Bob” Evans has been sent to Thailand to rescue archaeologist Marlowe Kennedy, after she was framed and arrested for drug trafficking. Her escape and their journey out of the country is filled with peril and only the fact that they travel as husband and wife are they able to evade capture. Despite safely arriving in Maine, Marlowe can’t start over without clearing her name and finding out who frame. Together with Kendric and her new found friends, they work together to catch the culprit. But will they be able to save Marlowe when she’s taken? Read it and find out.
Stoker did a phenomenal job of combining the elements of suspense, drama and romance in order to keep the reader hanging on and on the edge of their seats of this beautiful story of trust, love and perseverance. The chemistry between Kendric and Marlow was evident from the start, but it was the trust and deeply emotional bond between them that made them my favourite couple in the series so far. I love the men of Jack’s Lumber and I can’t wait to read JJ and April’s story.
This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy received from Netgalley.
March 6, 2024
Finding love on the run
I loved, loved Kendric and Marlowe’s forced proximity, one “bed”, romantic suspense tale. This book had the perfect balance of sweet moments, spice, chuckles, past pain, evil actors, danger, excitement, coincidences, healing, big feels, and love. And while it is unlikely that I will ever be in a situation like Kendric and Marlowe were, they are portrayed as such real, relatable, and likable people who have flaws, but are really just trying to do their best as messy humans, it was easy to connect to them. Kendric co-owns a tree service company in a small town in Maine with his three best friends. He is a former special forces soldier and was a POW. Unbeknownst to his friends, he has been going on secret rescue missions to other countries for the last two years. Marlowe is an archeologist who was set up and thrown in prison in Thailand for selling drugs. Kendric is sent in to rescue her. To get to their HEA, they’ll have to sneak out of a country trying to track down all the escaped prisoners, deal with their pasts, and embrace what could be. The story was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline. The suspense was well balanced with the romance creating a wonderful contrast. I am looking forward to the final book in the series.
I loved, loved Kendric and Marlowe’s forced proximity, one “bed”, romantic suspense tale. This book had the perfect balance of sweet moments, spice, chuckles, past pain, evil actors, danger, excitement, coincidences, healing, big feels, and love. And while it is unlikely that I will ever be in a situation like Kendric and Marlowe were, they are portrayed as such real, relatable, and likable people who have flaws, but are really just trying to do their best as messy humans, it was easy to connect to them. Kendric co-owns a tree service company in a small town in Maine with his three best friends. He is a former special forces soldier and was a POW. Unbeknownst to his friends, he has been going on secret rescue missions to other countries for the last two years. Marlowe is an archeologist who was set up and thrown in prison in Thailand for selling drugs. Kendric is sent in to rescue her. To get to their HEA, they’ll have to sneak out of a country trying to track down all the escaped prisoners, deal with their pasts, and embrace what could be. The story was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline. The suspense was well balanced with the romance creating a wonderful contrast. I am looking forward to the final book in the series.
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