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Alpha Cove #4
The Guardsman
Not yet published
Expected 9 Mar 27From New York Times bestselling author Susan Stoker comes a pulse-pounding novel of romantic suspense, where a brooding Coast Guard vet offers the only safe harbor for a woman hunted by her past.
In this intensely emotional finale to the Alpha Cove series, a guarded young woman and a Coast Guard vet must defend against her deadly past while opening themselves up to the possibility of love.
Jordan Ward is cursed. Raised in a nightmare, now living on the run, she’s not known peace since testifying at her violent brother’s murder trial a decade earlier, unable to settle with his vow of revenge haunting her every step. She doesn’t expect her stay in Rockville, Maine, to last any longer than all her other temporary homes…or be any less lonely…until a reluctant call for help to a man she barely knows changes her life.
Knox Young is blessed. The former Coast Guardsman has three of the best brothers anyone could ask for, and they only get closer after returning to their beloved home in coastal Maine to help their widowed mother. In fact, the family has expanded, with all of his brothers finding their perfect partners. Knox is thrilled for them all, but he has no plans to give up his freedom, ever…until a shy coworker catches his attention and changes his fate.
When he learns Jordan’s secret, Knox’s protective instincts surge, then swell when her brother’s threats spill outside his prison walls. But Jordan is no damsel in distress, and in the end, it may be Knox who’s saved…in every way possible.
Content This story contains references to past trauma, including sexual assault (off-page), and depicts graphic sexual situations. A happily ever after is guaranteed, but the path includes a couple of dark moments. Please read with care.
In this intensely emotional finale to the Alpha Cove series, a guarded young woman and a Coast Guard vet must defend against her deadly past while opening themselves up to the possibility of love.
Jordan Ward is cursed. Raised in a nightmare, now living on the run, she’s not known peace since testifying at her violent brother’s murder trial a decade earlier, unable to settle with his vow of revenge haunting her every step. She doesn’t expect her stay in Rockville, Maine, to last any longer than all her other temporary homes…or be any less lonely…until a reluctant call for help to a man she barely knows changes her life.
Knox Young is blessed. The former Coast Guardsman has three of the best brothers anyone could ask for, and they only get closer after returning to their beloved home in coastal Maine to help their widowed mother. In fact, the family has expanded, with all of his brothers finding their perfect partners. Knox is thrilled for them all, but he has no plans to give up his freedom, ever…until a shy coworker catches his attention and changes his fate.
When he learns Jordan’s secret, Knox’s protective instincts surge, then swell when her brother’s threats spill outside his prison walls. But Jordan is no damsel in distress, and in the end, it may be Knox who’s saved…in every way possible.
Content This story contains references to past trauma, including sexual assault (off-page), and depicts graphic sexual situations. A happily ever after is guaranteed, but the path includes a couple of dark moments. Please read with care.
- GenresRomantic SuspenseRomance
Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 9, 2027
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 - 18 of 18 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Before I even finished the first few chapters of The Guardsman, I knew Knox Young was going to be one of those heroes who steals your heart.
Knox is genuinely one of the good guys....protective, dependable, loyal, and surrounded by a close-knit family that had me smiling every time they appeared on the page. The bond between Knox and his three brothers is one of my favorite parts of this story, and their unwavering support for each other and the people they love adds so much warmth to an otherwise suspenseful storyline.
Jordan Ward has survived more than anyone should ever have to endure. After a horrific childhood and upbringing...her torture still didn't end. She helped put her serial killer brother, Malachi, behind bars. Now she is working hard to build a life for herself. When one accident leaves her needing help, Knox is the first person she calls. What starts as friendship quickly becomes something much deeper, even though Knox is convinced marriage and forever aren't in the cards for him.
Susan Stoker does what she does best by blending romance and suspense into a story that kept me turning pages. Malachi's presence looms over the entire book, and the danger he creates from behind bars adds a constant layer of tension. Watching Knox step up to protect Jordan while also helping her learn to trust and love again made for a sweet and satisfying romance aspect within the storyline.
Although I truly enjoyed the story, this wasn't a perfect read for me. There were a few moments in the middle of the story that felt a little out of place and pulled me out of the narrative. I also struggled a bit with Jordan's characterization at times. Considering everything she'd been through and the fact that she'd been on her own for quite a while, she occasionally felt more naïve than I expected. I understood what the author was trying to accomplish with her growth and vulnerability, but I found myself wishing she had been a little more worldly and cautious.
Even with those minor issues, I still really enjoyed this book. Knox is an amazing hero, the Young family is fantastic, and the romantic suspense elements kept me invested from beginning to end. I
Knox is genuinely one of the good guys....protective, dependable, loyal, and surrounded by a close-knit family that had me smiling every time they appeared on the page. The bond between Knox and his three brothers is one of my favorite parts of this story, and their unwavering support for each other and the people they love adds so much warmth to an otherwise suspenseful storyline.
Jordan Ward has survived more than anyone should ever have to endure. After a horrific childhood and upbringing...her torture still didn't end. She helped put her serial killer brother, Malachi, behind bars. Now she is working hard to build a life for herself. When one accident leaves her needing help, Knox is the first person she calls. What starts as friendship quickly becomes something much deeper, even though Knox is convinced marriage and forever aren't in the cards for him.
Susan Stoker does what she does best by blending romance and suspense into a story that kept me turning pages. Malachi's presence looms over the entire book, and the danger he creates from behind bars adds a constant layer of tension. Watching Knox step up to protect Jordan while also helping her learn to trust and love again made for a sweet and satisfying romance aspect within the storyline.
Although I truly enjoyed the story, this wasn't a perfect read for me. There were a few moments in the middle of the story that felt a little out of place and pulled me out of the narrative. I also struggled a bit with Jordan's characterization at times. Considering everything she'd been through and the fact that she'd been on her own for quite a while, she occasionally felt more naïve than I expected. I understood what the author was trying to accomplish with her growth and vulnerability, but I found myself wishing she had been a little more worldly and cautious.
Even with those minor issues, I still really enjoyed this book. Knox is an amazing hero, the Young family is fantastic, and the romantic suspense elements kept me invested from beginning to end. I
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jordan Ward is an introvert and would rather be by herself. She was raised by “preppers and sovereign citizens “. She testified against her brother and helped send him to prison. He threatened her and promised to get her back for her testimony. Jordan lives in Maine and when she accidentally hits a deer, she calls the only person she thinks can help her, Knox Young. Knox is a former Coast Guard and as his brothers find their other halves, Knox swears he’ll remain a bachelor. Knox and Jordan start hanging out and he takes her to Lobster Cove, his family’s land. Jordan is extremely shy but slowly blossoms. Her brother finds out where she is and sends a letter saying he is planning to have someone kill her. Knox is attached at Jordan’s hip and doesn’t plan to leave her alone for a second. They let their guard down and go on a camping trip. What they didn’t know was someone has been following Jordan. Knox is shot in the leg, they are lost in the woods and has to survive several days before anyone realizes something is wrong.
This is the best ending of a series I have read. I understand Jordan being introverted and extremely shy. I don’t do good in crowds or around new people. But Jordan is strong. Knox lets her be her and doesn’t try to change her. Steamy. Suspenseful. Mentions sexual abuse but not detailed. Could be a trigger for some. I do believe Knox and Jordan are my favorite. Plus some “ old” friends show up. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for Netgalley.
This is the best ending of a series I have read. I understand Jordan being introverted and extremely shy. I don’t do good in crowds or around new people. But Jordan is strong. Knox lets her be her and doesn’t try to change her. Steamy. Suspenseful. Mentions sexual abuse but not detailed. Could be a trigger for some. I do believe Knox and Jordan are my favorite. Plus some “ old” friends show up. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for Netgalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a rough one. It’s the perfect way to end the series. Jordan is fantastic. Knox is so much more than he’s pretended to be. But that epilogue…..that slayed me. Don’t get me wrong, it’s great from start to finish, but you may want some tissues for the “finish” part.
Jordan isn’t used to being alone and on her own that she’s stunned when Knox helps her. Even more so when he keeps showing up for her. And she’s got a super rough past. Maybe one of the worst. She’s far too good to let it destroy her, though, and anyone who actually looks at her sees her goodness. Knox is just the first one who was fortunate enough to look, because once he realizes who he’s seeing, he’s all in and he’s lucky that Jordan feels the same about him.
Even miscommunications out of fear can’t stop these two. Especially when the unlikeliest of allies appears, which he has a knack for doing. Victor and Jordan share more than anyone would guess, and she gives that man peace, love, and acceptance that he needs also.
So, yeah. The perfect end to the series. We see some other guys I’ve enjoyed spending time with, we see a name we all know and love, and we see the future. It’s a good one, but oh, how I’m sad that it’s now a closed chapter in this world.
Jordan isn’t used to being alone and on her own that she’s stunned when Knox helps her. Even more so when he keeps showing up for her. And she’s got a super rough past. Maybe one of the worst. She’s far too good to let it destroy her, though, and anyone who actually looks at her sees her goodness. Knox is just the first one who was fortunate enough to look, because once he realizes who he’s seeing, he’s all in and he’s lucky that Jordan feels the same about him.
Even miscommunications out of fear can’t stop these two. Especially when the unlikeliest of allies appears, which he has a knack for doing. Victor and Jordan share more than anyone would guess, and she gives that man peace, love, and acceptance that he needs also.
So, yeah. The perfect end to the series. We see some other guys I’ve enjoyed spending time with, we see a name we all know and love, and we see the future. It’s a good one, but oh, how I’m sad that it’s now a closed chapter in this world.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have really enjoyed this entire series, and this last installment was a great way to wrap it up. Susan Stoker's books are definitely a little formulaic and predictable, but that's part of the appeal. If you're looking for pure escapism with protective military heroes, danger, romance, and a guaranteed happy ending, these books are great for that. They remind me of the old school Harlequin books and it's perfect!
I have a huge soft spot for the damsel in distress trope, and Jordan and Knox were right up my alley. I loved their connection and seeing them navigate everything Jordan had been through. There was nonstop action, plenty of suspense, and the story kept moving the entire time.
I think the best part of this last book was finally seeing Knox get his happy ending! After watching all of his brothers find their person throughout the series, it was so satisfying to see him get his turn. A really enjoyable romantic suspense and a great finale to the Alpha Cove series!
Thank you to NetGalley, Susan Stoker, and Montlake for the eARC of this book.
I have a huge soft spot for the damsel in distress trope, and Jordan and Knox were right up my alley. I loved their connection and seeing them navigate everything Jordan had been through. There was nonstop action, plenty of suspense, and the story kept moving the entire time.
I think the best part of this last book was finally seeing Knox get his happy ending! After watching all of his brothers find their person throughout the series, it was so satisfying to see him get his turn. A really enjoyable romantic suspense and a great finale to the Alpha Cove series!
Thank you to NetGalley, Susan Stoker, and Montlake for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Loved this book! I was hooked from the very first page and flipping pages just as quickly as possible until the very end. Jordan is a woman with a tragic past and lots of issues. She comes with life by keeping a very small profile and moving frequently. Knox is a former guardsman who is a confirmed bachelor committed to never marrying. When they are thrown together, they both begin to reevaluate their lives. As they're doing this, a threat from Jordan's past arises. Before long, they're fighting an unseen enemy and trying to find a path to safety. I was totally engaged in their story and couldn't put the book down.
While part of a series, this is a stand alone novel. However, its so good that you really owe it to yourself to read them all. This is the final book in the series and is a satisfying conclusion to the series.
Fans of the genre will love this book. The author is on my must read authors ' list.
While part of a series, this is a stand alone novel. However, its so good that you really owe it to yourself to read them all. This is the final book in the series and is a satisfying conclusion to the series.
Fans of the genre will love this book. The author is on my must read authors ' list.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An emotional read with everything we’ve come to expect and more from Susan in this well written book.
Jordan Ward did not have the best life growing, a life in fact that was more than tragic, but she managed to build a life for herself nonetheless. Jordan keeps her head down and does not trust easily. After hitting a deer and left with no one else to call, Jordan reaches out to Knox Young and he doesn’t hesitate to help the pretty Admin.
As the two strike a friendship, Knox is kind and patient with Jordan and his family is over the top in love with her. It’s not long for the committed bachelor is head over heels for Jordan and she has it just as bad for Knox. The danger has been watching and waiting and when the time is right the strike is something Jordan and Knox don’t see coming. It takes all hands on deck to save Jordan and Knox and what follows is an epic epilogue. Thanks to NetGalley, Montlake and Susan Stoker for the opportunity to read and review her work.
Jordan Ward did not have the best life growing, a life in fact that was more than tragic, but she managed to build a life for herself nonetheless. Jordan keeps her head down and does not trust easily. After hitting a deer and left with no one else to call, Jordan reaches out to Knox Young and he doesn’t hesitate to help the pretty Admin.
As the two strike a friendship, Knox is kind and patient with Jordan and his family is over the top in love with her. It’s not long for the committed bachelor is head over heels for Jordan and she has it just as bad for Knox. The danger has been watching and waiting and when the time is right the strike is something Jordan and Knox don’t see coming. It takes all hands on deck to save Jordan and Knox and what follows is an epic epilogue. Thanks to NetGalley, Montlake and Susan Stoker for the opportunity to read and review her work.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a great and emotional ending to such a wonderful series! I enjoyed reading about these brothers and watching them all fall in love. The bond they had was so strong and they would do anything for each other.
This last one had an extra oomph to it. Very stressful and an uncomfortable and sad backstory. My stomach was in knots for quite a while. But I KNEW I had to hold on for a little while. The reluctant hero is a new favorite of mine. It’s nice to see a slower progression in the falling part of the romance. Insta love isn’t always the best.
And I LOVE LOVE LOVE when authors give us a glimpse into the future. So happy to see where they all ended up and how their lives have changed.
I read this ARC as soon as I was given it because I NEEDED to know how it all ends. There was no waiting til closer to release day.
This last one had an extra oomph to it. Very stressful and an uncomfortable and sad backstory. My stomach was in knots for quite a while. But I KNEW I had to hold on for a little while. The reluctant hero is a new favorite of mine. It’s nice to see a slower progression in the falling part of the romance. Insta love isn’t always the best.
And I LOVE LOVE LOVE when authors give us a glimpse into the future. So happy to see where they all ended up and how their lives have changed.
I read this ARC as soon as I was given it because I NEEDED to know how it all ends. There was no waiting til closer to release day.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
We are back in Maine, where most of the Young brothers have found love after returning home in order to help their widowed mom.
Knox , a former Coastguard man, is the last single brother. One who has no desire to get into a long term relationship.
But fate has a different plan when he meets Jordan Ward at work. A woman whose secrets and past will catch up with her and put her and Knox in danger.
This suspense romance is not for the weak at heart as it’s sometimes heartbreaking and dark. Sometimes the lines between black and white become blurred . Reminding us that life is truly variations of gray.
I was entrusted this copy by Netgalley and Montlake. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Knox , a former Coastguard man, is the last single brother. One who has no desire to get into a long term relationship.
But fate has a different plan when he meets Jordan Ward at work. A woman whose secrets and past will catch up with her and put her and Knox in danger.
This suspense romance is not for the weak at heart as it’s sometimes heartbreaking and dark. Sometimes the lines between black and white become blurred . Reminding us that life is truly variations of gray.
I was entrusted this copy by Netgalley and Montlake. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
June 20, 2026
Arc review:
I was very intrigued by the synopsis, the Fmc being related to a serial killer is always interesting, and in the beginning I was very excited to keep reading, she was very naive, and sometimes a bit cringy, but that all makes sense when we consider the way she was raised.
The Mmc was cute and protective but I felt like he was missing some depth.
Towards the end I lost most interest, it felt rushed and dragged out at the same time, but I kept reading because I LOVED the family aspect of the book, I haven’t read the previous books in the series but the glimpses I got made me want to get right on that.
If you’re looking for a romance with mystery and suspense with very engaging side characters this might be perfect for you.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC:)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Knox finally gets his HEA! Knox and Jordan were a match made for one another. There are a couple of scenes in reference to Jordan’s past I could have done without the graphic description, but in general, the story was good. Stoker has expected bullet points in her stories, ie, alpha hero and their damsels not quite in distress, a close knit group of friends and family, smexy moments, some type of suspense, but if the method works, why change it?
The very extended epilogues tied up any questions a reader could think of when asking where are they down the road. Good read.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advance reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The very extended epilogues tied up any questions a reader could think of when asking where are they down the road. Good read.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advance reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This series has been such a fantastic read, the family feel as well as the romance and drama were brilliantly written and each book brought us closer to each of the bothers and their partners
Knox and Jordan were the last and I loved how Knox really focused on what made Jordan happy and accepted her quiet shy side with love.
The family vibes and acceptance of Jordan into their fold was beautiful and I totally got Alabama/Kinley vibes (IYKYK) from Jordan
Loved the series, adored this book
Knox and Jordan were the last and I loved how Knox really focused on what made Jordan happy and accepted her quiet shy side with love.
The family vibes and acceptance of Jordan into their fold was beautiful and I totally got Alabama/Kinley vibes (IYKYK) from Jordan
Loved the series, adored this book
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was the final book in the Alpha Cove series about 4 brothers in Maine. It was typical Susan Stoker with a damaged heroine who finds herself in dire straits and an alpha military guy who makes her his woman. I don't know why I keep reading this author as she comes up with the most implausible, too stupid to live themes. It's like a car wreck on the highway I can't look away from.
I did enjoy the epilogue where she went into the future to show where everybody ended up.
I received an eARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I did enjoy the epilogue where she went into the future to show where everybody ended up.
I received an eARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am sorry this series has ended but Knox and Jordan’s story as well as the brilliant extended epilogue is well worth reading. It has everything in this story from socially awkward Jordan to commitment-phobe Knox, a revenge seeking serial killer and help from some friends from another series, family updates and new insights to some characters, and the ultimate thrilling rescue. Knox and Jordan are so good for each other and I loved their interactions. Adored all the Young men and their women. Brilliant series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jordan is a loner.
An introvert.
That’s just who she is.
Because of this, she has no one to contact when she hits a deer with her car. Somehow, she has Knox programmed into her phone and she decides to call him to help her. And he does.
This is the beginning.
He sees her… really sees her.
They start off as friends and then become more. I think she fell in love with his family before him which is sweet.
I really enjoyed this story and this series. The ending of this one was a bittersweet since we get so many epilogues into the future.
An introvert.
That’s just who she is.
Because of this, she has no one to contact when she hits a deer with her car. Somehow, she has Knox programmed into her phone and she decides to call him to help her. And he does.
This is the beginning.
He sees her… really sees her.
They start off as friends and then become more. I think she fell in love with his family before him which is sweet.
I really enjoyed this story and this series. The ending of this one was a bittersweet since we get so many epilogues into the future.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for an advanced copy of the Guardsman!
The final brother of the Lobster Cove quartet, Knox has no plans of settling down and complicating his life prior to a roadside rescue of the known stranger capturing his thoughts. Jordan, resilient despite compounding horrors, learns that found family defeats blood every day of the week. The book moved quickly and made me hungry for baked goods, for sure. Loved the surprise crossovers included! Great capstone to the Maine brothers’ series!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a Friends to Lovers Romantic Suspense, and this is the fourth book in the Alpha Cove series. I have read the first two books in this series before picking up this book. I loved the characters in this book, and Jordan's backstory is so touching. I love how Knox protects Jordan in every way he can. I really enjoyed and love this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my first Susan Stoker novel in quite a while. I forgot how much I enjoy her stories. The right mix of romance and suspense and likeable main characters. Knox and Jordan's story is the fourth in the series but can definitely be read as a standalone. Definitely recommend
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC.
This final book in the Alpha Cove series centers on Knox. After a coworker, Jordan, reaches out for assistance, Knox is intrigued and hooked. As the story progresses, we learn Jordan’s backstory and know that this is going to be the “hook”. There is a satisfying ending and, as with each of the author’s series, the epilogue gives the reader a glance into how the lives of the team, or in this case brothers, move forward in the future.
This final book in the Alpha Cove series centers on Knox. After a coworker, Jordan, reaches out for assistance, Knox is intrigued and hooked. As the story progresses, we learn Jordan’s backstory and know that this is going to be the “hook”. There is a satisfying ending and, as with each of the author’s series, the epilogue gives the reader a glance into how the lives of the team, or in this case brothers, move forward in the future.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews