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Delta Force Heroes: Guardians #1
Rescuing Brinley
She was never ugly. She was just unseen…until he came along.
Weird. Strange. Ugly. All her life, Brinley Deaton has been described with those words—and worse. And not just by strangers and schoolyard bullies, but by her own family. Raised by a mother who’s hated her since birth, in the shadows of a younger sister who’s a literal beauty queen, Brinley’s carved out a life as a pageant designer, making other women stand out, even as she hides her own light. Until she meets Dash…
Delta Force Operative Dash “Shadow” Carlson is on assignment with his team, protecting the VP and his wife in Fiji as their daughter competes in a pageant, when he meets the woman of his dreams. But she’s not some Barbie in a ball gown. Wild red hair, unique features, smart and talented…Brinley stands out in a crowd full of plastic women. And when he learns they both live in Alaska? It’s fate, pure and simple.
Convincing her to go on a date once they’re back in Fairbanks is easy. Making her believe she’s beautiful—inside and out—is much harder. But first he has to get them both home alive…then keep her that way, when trouble follows them all the way from Fiji.
**Rescuing Brinley is the 1st book in the Delta Force Guardians Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
Weird. Strange. Ugly. All her life, Brinley Deaton has been described with those words—and worse. And not just by strangers and schoolyard bullies, but by her own family. Raised by a mother who’s hated her since birth, in the shadows of a younger sister who’s a literal beauty queen, Brinley’s carved out a life as a pageant designer, making other women stand out, even as she hides her own light. Until she meets Dash…
Delta Force Operative Dash “Shadow” Carlson is on assignment with his team, protecting the VP and his wife in Fiji as their daughter competes in a pageant, when he meets the woman of his dreams. But she’s not some Barbie in a ball gown. Wild red hair, unique features, smart and talented…Brinley stands out in a crowd full of plastic women. And when he learns they both live in Alaska? It’s fate, pure and simple.
Convincing her to go on a date once they’re back in Fairbanks is easy. Making her believe she’s beautiful—inside and out—is much harder. But first he has to get them both home alive…then keep her that way, when trouble follows them all the way from Fiji.
**Rescuing Brinley is the 1st book in the Delta Force Guardians Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 8, 2026
About the author
Susan Stoker
267 books7,524 followersSign up for my newsletter here:
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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 58 reviews
September 10, 2026
Koliko emocija...❤️🔝
September 8, 2026
"You're more than the skin you wear"
This is an intriguing, heart wrenching and dangerous introduction to this new series from Ms Stoker. As expected we have a heroine with more strength than she believes and a badass hero with a huge heart.
My heart breaks for Brinley and the horrors her family have put her through, it's not often I get such a strong reaction to a character, but Brinley's mother inspires instant hatred and anger, she doesn't deserve to be a mother. Despite the abuse and trauma from her mum Brinley has embraced her strengths and become highly successful in the one industry that caused her so much pain in her childhood. She is such a sweet character and whilst she tends to keep it locked up tight, she also has the biggest heart for those who finally earn her trust. I love that Shadow sees Brinley as striking and girl next door beautiful and as he gets to know her better, that beauty only grows in his eyes. Brinley surprises both of them when she manages to stage the rescue that saves, not only the two of them, but also the kidnapped women. She keeps a cool head under pressure, just as Shadow does, which is what, ultimately, saves her life when she is kidnapped.
I really enjoyed this first book and look forward to many more in the series, I listened to this on Audible.
This is an intriguing, heart wrenching and dangerous introduction to this new series from Ms Stoker. As expected we have a heroine with more strength than she believes and a badass hero with a huge heart.
My heart breaks for Brinley and the horrors her family have put her through, it's not often I get such a strong reaction to a character, but Brinley's mother inspires instant hatred and anger, she doesn't deserve to be a mother. Despite the abuse and trauma from her mum Brinley has embraced her strengths and become highly successful in the one industry that caused her so much pain in her childhood. She is such a sweet character and whilst she tends to keep it locked up tight, she also has the biggest heart for those who finally earn her trust. I love that Shadow sees Brinley as striking and girl next door beautiful and as he gets to know her better, that beauty only grows in his eyes. Brinley surprises both of them when she manages to stage the rescue that saves, not only the two of them, but also the kidnapped women. She keeps a cool head under pressure, just as Shadow does, which is what, ultimately, saves her life when she is kidnapped.
I really enjoyed this first book and look forward to many more in the series, I listened to this on Audible.
September 11, 2026
Fantastic start to the series
I loved, loved, loved Dash and Brinley’s romance. And oof was I feeling some really big big feels with this one - starting with the Note from the Author. I too love reading about imperfect messy characters who are still wonderful worthy humans because of their imperfections (physical or emotional) rather than in spite of them. That is what most humans are - messy wonderful beings. This heartwarming and suspenseful story about two such messy humans is woven together with the perfect balance of humor, love, real life issues, danger, big feels, and spice. Dash is a Delta Force soldier stationed In Fairbanks, AK. Brinley designs and creates gowns for contestants in beauty pageants. She also lives in Fairbanks. Brinley is not a classic beauty and has been told all her life that she is ugly especially by her mother and sister. Dash and Brinley meet at a pageant in Fiji. She is there to assist her clients and he’s there to protect the daughter of the VP. After an intense and dangerous situation in Fiji where they work together, their interest in each other only grows stronger. Unfortunately, because this book is set in the Stoker universe, all is not only rainbows and unicorns because danger is still out there. Despite knowing the bad thing is definitely coming, it does not detract from the suspenseful buildup and how captivating their love story was. Expect to feel all the things while reading this love story - fear, love, anger, tears, joy, and so much all encompassing, nurturing, protective love. While most of us will never be in the dangerous situations the main characters are a part of, the author nevertheless makes who they are as people so relatable and real that it is easy to fall in love with them. Now that Dash’s team has been introduced, I cannot wait to see who falls in love next.
I loved, loved, loved Dash and Brinley’s romance. And oof was I feeling some really big big feels with this one - starting with the Note from the Author. I too love reading about imperfect messy characters who are still wonderful worthy humans because of their imperfections (physical or emotional) rather than in spite of them. That is what most humans are - messy wonderful beings. This heartwarming and suspenseful story about two such messy humans is woven together with the perfect balance of humor, love, real life issues, danger, big feels, and spice. Dash is a Delta Force soldier stationed In Fairbanks, AK. Brinley designs and creates gowns for contestants in beauty pageants. She also lives in Fairbanks. Brinley is not a classic beauty and has been told all her life that she is ugly especially by her mother and sister. Dash and Brinley meet at a pageant in Fiji. She is there to assist her clients and he’s there to protect the daughter of the VP. After an intense and dangerous situation in Fiji where they work together, their interest in each other only grows stronger. Unfortunately, because this book is set in the Stoker universe, all is not only rainbows and unicorns because danger is still out there. Despite knowing the bad thing is definitely coming, it does not detract from the suspenseful buildup and how captivating their love story was. Expect to feel all the things while reading this love story - fear, love, anger, tears, joy, and so much all encompassing, nurturing, protective love. While most of us will never be in the dangerous situations the main characters are a part of, the author nevertheless makes who they are as people so relatable and real that it is easy to fall in love with them. Now that Dash’s team has been introduced, I cannot wait to see who falls in love next.
October 29, 2026
Delta Force Heroes: Guardians #1
Rescuing Brinley
Susan Stoker
4.52
845 ratings56 reviews
She was never ugly. She was just unseen…until he came along.
Weird. Strange. Ugly. All her life, Brinley Deaton has been described with those words—and worse. And not just by strangers and schoolyard bullies, but by her own family. Raised by a mother who’s hated her since birth, in the shadows of a younger sister who’s a literal beauty queen, Brinley’s carved out a life as a pageant designer, making other women stand out, even as she hides her own light. Until she meets Dash…
Delta Force Operative Dash “Shadow” Carlson is on assignment with his team, protecting the VP and his wife in Fiji as their daughter competes in a pageant, when he meets the woman of his dreams. But she’s not some Barbie in a ball gown. Wild red hair, unique features, smart and talented…Brinley stands out in a crowd full of plastic women. And when he learns they both live in Alaska? It’s fate, pure and simple.
Convincing her to go on a date once they’re back in Fairbanks is easy. Making her believe she’s beautiful—inside and out—is much harder. But first he has to get them both home alive…then keep her that way, when trouble follows them all the way from Fiji.
**Rescuing Brinley is the 1st book in the Delta Force Guardians Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
Show more
Genres
Romance
Military Fiction
Romantic Suspense
Audiobook
Military Romance
Contemporary
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 8, 2026
Rescuing Brinley
Susan Stoker
4.52
845 ratings56 reviews
She was never ugly. She was just unseen…until he came along.
Weird. Strange. Ugly. All her life, Brinley Deaton has been described with those words—and worse. And not just by strangers and schoolyard bullies, but by her own family. Raised by a mother who’s hated her since birth, in the shadows of a younger sister who’s a literal beauty queen, Brinley’s carved out a life as a pageant designer, making other women stand out, even as she hides her own light. Until she meets Dash…
Delta Force Operative Dash “Shadow” Carlson is on assignment with his team, protecting the VP and his wife in Fiji as their daughter competes in a pageant, when he meets the woman of his dreams. But she’s not some Barbie in a ball gown. Wild red hair, unique features, smart and talented…Brinley stands out in a crowd full of plastic women. And when he learns they both live in Alaska? It’s fate, pure and simple.
Convincing her to go on a date once they’re back in Fairbanks is easy. Making her believe she’s beautiful—inside and out—is much harder. But first he has to get them both home alive…then keep her that way, when trouble follows them all the way from Fiji.
**Rescuing Brinley is the 1st book in the Delta Force Guardians Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
Show more
Genres
Romance
Military Fiction
Romantic Suspense
Audiobook
Military Romance
Contemporary
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 8, 2026
September 13, 2026
Ohhhh, I loved this one. 🥹❤️
Brinley completely stole my heart. Being made to feel ugly and unwanted by the people who were supposed to love her the most broke my heart, especially watching her spend her life helping other women shine while hiding her own light. She was never ugly—she just needed someone who actually saw her.
And then there’s Dash. 😍 A Delta Force operative who takes one look at Brinley and basically says, Yep, that’s my woman. I absolutely loved how he saw her unique beauty from the very beginning and never made her feel like she needed to change. He was protective, patient, and determined to show her exactly how beautiful she was, inside and out.
I also loved that Brinley wasn’t some stereotypical pageant beauty. The wild red hair, unique features, intelligence, and talent made her stand out, and Dash being completely captivated by all of it? Chef’s kiss. ❤️
Add in the suspense, the danger following them home from Fiji, the Delta Force hero, and that sweet Alaska connection, and I was completely invested. I’m always a sucker for a protective military man who knows exactly what he wants, and Dash absolutely delivered. 🔥
This was such a beautiful story about finally being seen, finding someone who appreciates every part of you, and realizing that the way other people have treated you doesn’t define your worth.
Dash and Brinley were everything. 5 stars all the way. 🥹❤️
Brinley completely stole my heart. Being made to feel ugly and unwanted by the people who were supposed to love her the most broke my heart, especially watching her spend her life helping other women shine while hiding her own light. She was never ugly—she just needed someone who actually saw her.
And then there’s Dash. 😍 A Delta Force operative who takes one look at Brinley and basically says, Yep, that’s my woman. I absolutely loved how he saw her unique beauty from the very beginning and never made her feel like she needed to change. He was protective, patient, and determined to show her exactly how beautiful she was, inside and out.
I also loved that Brinley wasn’t some stereotypical pageant beauty. The wild red hair, unique features, intelligence, and talent made her stand out, and Dash being completely captivated by all of it? Chef’s kiss. ❤️
Add in the suspense, the danger following them home from Fiji, the Delta Force hero, and that sweet Alaska connection, and I was completely invested. I’m always a sucker for a protective military man who knows exactly what he wants, and Dash absolutely delivered. 🔥
This was such a beautiful story about finally being seen, finding someone who appreciates every part of you, and realizing that the way other people have treated you doesn’t define your worth.
Dash and Brinley were everything. 5 stars all the way. 🥹❤️
September 10, 2026
Great start to a new series!
This was such an interesting story as it’s set in Alaska with a Delta Team that trains others in winter survival skills. They are sent to Fiji to help the Secret Service guard the VP and his family as his daughter is competing in the beauty pageant there. That is how Dash (Shadow) meets Brinley. She designs and makes gowns for these types of pageants. Their first encounter really amazes Dash as Brinley’s sister is yelling at her and getting in her face. When he goes to break it up, he is floored by his reaction to Brinley. He can’t get her out of his head. They run into each other again and have a nice talk and learn that they both live in Alaska and Dash feels like this is fate. From here the story really takes off. I loved how Dash see’s the real Brinley and how amazing she is. These two were made for each other. The way that he talks to her and tells her over and over that she is the perfect woman for him was just what she needed to hear. This story will pull at your heart strings as there are so many emotional parts that you better have a tissue ready. I loved getting to know Cypress better too and can’t wait for her story next!
This was such an interesting story as it’s set in Alaska with a Delta Team that trains others in winter survival skills. They are sent to Fiji to help the Secret Service guard the VP and his family as his daughter is competing in the beauty pageant there. That is how Dash (Shadow) meets Brinley. She designs and makes gowns for these types of pageants. Their first encounter really amazes Dash as Brinley’s sister is yelling at her and getting in her face. When he goes to break it up, he is floored by his reaction to Brinley. He can’t get her out of his head. They run into each other again and have a nice talk and learn that they both live in Alaska and Dash feels like this is fate. From here the story really takes off. I loved how Dash see’s the real Brinley and how amazing she is. These two were made for each other. The way that he talks to her and tells her over and over that she is the perfect woman for him was just what she needed to hear. This story will pull at your heart strings as there are so many emotional parts that you better have a tissue ready. I loved getting to know Cypress better too and can’t wait for her story next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rescuing Brinley is the first book in the new Delta Force Heroes: Guardians Series
and it has all the classic Susan Stoker goodness.
Be Kind, Be Brave and fight to live another day.
Brinley and Shadow meet at a beauty pageant. Brinley has a Cinderella past, but raised in pageant life, she now rocks crafting winning costumes. Shadow is at the pageant on protection detail. It is quite the meet cute.
It gets even cuter when Brinley and Shadow rescue some almost human trafficked pageant victims.
It all works out and Brinley and Shadow’s HEA tale has all the Stoker goodness; chemistry, heat, kindness and intelligence too. I loved every second.
“Brinley has a Cinderella past” clarification:
Instead of Cinderella’s evil step-mother, Brinley has an evil mother. And instead of having evil step-sisters, Brinley has an evil half-sister.
And Brinley doesn’t need a lost shoe, she’s way more badass and can fly airplanes!
and it has all the classic Susan Stoker goodness.
Be Kind, Be Brave and fight to live another day.
Brinley and Shadow meet at a beauty pageant. Brinley has a Cinderella past, but raised in pageant life, she now rocks crafting winning costumes. Shadow is at the pageant on protection detail. It is quite the meet cute.
It gets even cuter when Brinley and Shadow rescue some almost human trafficked pageant victims.
It all works out and Brinley and Shadow’s HEA tale has all the Stoker goodness; chemistry, heat, kindness and intelligence too. I loved every second.
“Brinley has a Cinderella past” clarification:
Instead of Cinderella’s evil step-mother, Brinley has an evil mother. And instead of having evil step-sisters, Brinley has an evil half-sister.
And Brinley doesn’t need a lost shoe, she’s way more badass and can fly airplanes!
September 10, 2026
Already hooked. I'm loving the characters in this new series by Susan Stoker. Her Delta Force heroes have long been my favorites, and I see this team turning into more hunky, protective heroes I love.
Random thoughts:
Brinley was a "real" woman--not the prettiest gal in the bunch, but what a beauty she was inside, despite her cruel upbringing. I think it made Dash ("Shadow" nickname) all the more heroic because he truly saw and appreciated her.
Love the friendship between Brinley and Cypress! And we've had enough of an introduction to the other men on the team that I'm already developing favorites and can't wait to read their stories.
My favorite part was when Dash had to face a tragedy (no details so I don't spoil anything), and Brinley was the rock that got him through it.
My only critique is that I wished it was longer. I wanted to enjoy more time with these characters. But it was a complete story. Plus, it gave us a hint at Cypress & Echo's story.
Random thoughts:
Brinley was a "real" woman--not the prettiest gal in the bunch, but what a beauty she was inside, despite her cruel upbringing. I think it made Dash ("Shadow" nickname) all the more heroic because he truly saw and appreciated her.
Love the friendship between Brinley and Cypress! And we've had enough of an introduction to the other men on the team that I'm already developing favorites and can't wait to read their stories.
My favorite part was when Dash had to face a tragedy (no details so I don't spoil anything), and Brinley was the rock that got him through it.
My only critique is that I wished it was longer. I wanted to enjoy more time with these characters. But it was a complete story. Plus, it gave us a hint at Cypress & Echo's story.
September 14, 2026
Brinley has been bullied her entire life but can Dash convince her everyone was wrong about her?
Brinley has been bullied all her life and told she was ugly because she had red hair and tons of freckles by her mother and her younger sister and all the kids in school. Now she is living in Alaska with her best friend since fifth grade and the only one who ever stuck up for her. Now she is a dress designer for some women in beauty pageants and meets Dash on a trip to Fiji where she is working with several contestants and he is part of the security detail for a Senator and his family while his daughter competes in the pageant. When she refuses to work with one of the contestants, who is a bully and associated with her sister, she starts threatening her through voicemail and texts. What happens when Brinley get kidnapped, beaten, and left for dead in the middle of nowhere? Will they be able to find her before it's too late? What kind of shape will she be in?
Brinley has been bullied all her life and told she was ugly because she had red hair and tons of freckles by her mother and her younger sister and all the kids in school. Now she is living in Alaska with her best friend since fifth grade and the only one who ever stuck up for her. Now she is a dress designer for some women in beauty pageants and meets Dash on a trip to Fiji where she is working with several contestants and he is part of the security detail for a Senator and his family while his daughter competes in the pageant. When she refuses to work with one of the contestants, who is a bully and associated with her sister, she starts threatening her through voicemail and texts. What happens when Brinley get kidnapped, beaten, and left for dead in the middle of nowhere? Will they be able to find her before it's too late? What kind of shape will she be in?
September 17, 2026
Ugly duckling
Being teased, belittled, made fun of, and unloved for as long as Brinley could remember from other kids and her own mom, then her sister, after adoring her even she changed, meeting her first friend in 5th grade was a miracle she needed, Cypress had her back against the bullies, as an adult the two of them were besties and when they made the move to Alaska for Cypress job Brinley never hesitated, she could do her job of designing pageant attire from anywhere, meeting the handsome military man Dash and not trusting that he actually likes her, fast paced energy, excitement, thrills, life and death situations, believing is seeing, danger comes when you least expect it, knowing what you want, what your heart wants and going for it, excellent beginning to a new series, Dash and Brinley will win your heart and soul, thank you for sharing your words, Dana Zamora
Being teased, belittled, made fun of, and unloved for as long as Brinley could remember from other kids and her own mom, then her sister, after adoring her even she changed, meeting her first friend in 5th grade was a miracle she needed, Cypress had her back against the bullies, as an adult the two of them were besties and when they made the move to Alaska for Cypress job Brinley never hesitated, she could do her job of designing pageant attire from anywhere, meeting the handsome military man Dash and not trusting that he actually likes her, fast paced energy, excitement, thrills, life and death situations, believing is seeing, danger comes when you least expect it, knowing what you want, what your heart wants and going for it, excellent beginning to a new series, Dash and Brinley will win your heart and soul, thank you for sharing your words, Dana Zamora
September 24, 2026
Dash & Brinley
First of all, Brinley is a BA! I love her! We get a glimpse at the abuse her mom & sister heap on her, and while it definitely causes some lasting effects, Brinley doesn't let them break her spirit. She's kind and thoughtful, talented and brave. So, so brave!!
And then we have Dash. S W O O N. 😁 He's confident & falls hard for Brinley, admiring her bravery from the start as she stands up for herself when her sister gets in her face. And THEN something happens at the pageant that REALLY showcases her strength and bravery! I loved what happens during that bit of the story!
This was a great start to a new series. I loved meeting Brinley's BFF, Cypress, and being introduced to Dash (aka Shadow) & this new team of Deltas. There were some LOL moments, 🔥🌶🔥🌶, and also some tears. Through it all, Dash & Brinley stick together & give us a fantastic story!!
😍😍😍
First of all, Brinley is a BA! I love her! We get a glimpse at the abuse her mom & sister heap on her, and while it definitely causes some lasting effects, Brinley doesn't let them break her spirit. She's kind and thoughtful, talented and brave. So, so brave!!
And then we have Dash. S W O O N. 😁 He's confident & falls hard for Brinley, admiring her bravery from the start as she stands up for herself when her sister gets in her face. And THEN something happens at the pageant that REALLY showcases her strength and bravery! I loved what happens during that bit of the story!
This was a great start to a new series. I loved meeting Brinley's BFF, Cypress, and being introduced to Dash (aka Shadow) & this new team of Deltas. There were some LOL moments, 🔥🌶🔥🌶, and also some tears. Through it all, Dash & Brinley stick together & give us a fantastic story!!
😍😍😍
September 24, 2026
Brinley Deaton is a cute redhead, talented, successful, and kind. She had the great misfortune to have been born to a mother shallower than a saucer. From birth her mother couldn’t get over having an “ugly baby” and let Brinley know it daily. After dumping Brinley’s father in favor or a man more likely to give her a “pretty baby,” she then markedly favors that child and constantly demeans Brinley. Her one piece of good luck is getting her best friend, Cypress. And she’s able to make a successful business designing gowns for beauty pageants. It’s at one of these pageants that terrorists strike and she meets Dash “Shadow” Carlson, a Delta there with his team to cover the VP of the US and his family—his daughter being a contestant.
When she and Dash discover that they are both based in Fairbanks, Alaska, they start dating. And then, asIf the whole terrorist episode wasn’t bad enough, Brinley becomes the target of harassment from a contestant she has declined to work for.
When she and Dash discover that they are both based in Fairbanks, Alaska, they start dating. And then, asIf the whole terrorist episode wasn’t bad enough, Brinley becomes the target of harassment from a contestant she has declined to work for.
Review of advance copy
This is book 1 in a new Susan Stoker series and we are introduced to a new Delta team, this time located in Alaska.
Brinley and “Shadow” absolutely work. He’s a Delta Force operative and she’s a fashion designer. He reminds her that she’s beautiful inside and out. He sees her. Brinley’s upbringing was horrific. Her mother? The worst. Her little sister grew up to be just like her mother and is horrible to Brinley. But Shadow rocks Brinley’s world by making her feel like she’s not the ugly duckling she’s been told her entire life. He likes her. He really likes her. Admires her. Is falling for her. And Brinley experiencing her first real dating experience is heart melting. And wow does she show us her true strength in this story when her life’s in danger.
The audiobook is in duet narration (Susan’s first) and it’s outstanding.
Looking forward to the rest!
Brinley and “Shadow” absolutely work. He’s a Delta Force operative and she’s a fashion designer. He reminds her that she’s beautiful inside and out. He sees her. Brinley’s upbringing was horrific. Her mother? The worst. Her little sister grew up to be just like her mother and is horrible to Brinley. But Shadow rocks Brinley’s world by making her feel like she’s not the ugly duckling she’s been told her entire life. He likes her. He really likes her. Admires her. Is falling for her. And Brinley experiencing her first real dating experience is heart melting. And wow does she show us her true strength in this story when her life’s in danger.
The audiobook is in duet narration (Susan’s first) and it’s outstanding.
Looking forward to the rest!
September 19, 2026
5 stars for Rescuing Brinley by Susan Stoker
OMG another amazing first book in a new series. Amazing storyline of how cruel people are to each other but how heroic and strong someone becomes. I love that this series is centered in Alaska. The fortitude of Brinley is truly awe inspiring. How she is a full functioning adult is a testament to her and her bestie. Everyone should treat people with kindness. The trauma is truly overwhelming. Always happy to see Tex helping another team. Love the little nugget of funny about everyone knowing that guy Tex. Love Dash and Brinley together. He knows what he wants and doesn't shy away from showing Brinley how he feels. The scenes with his mother are beautiful. You will need tissues for the saddest one. Can't wait for the next installment of Delta Force Guardians.
OMG another amazing first book in a new series. Amazing storyline of how cruel people are to each other but how heroic and strong someone becomes. I love that this series is centered in Alaska. The fortitude of Brinley is truly awe inspiring. How she is a full functioning adult is a testament to her and her bestie. Everyone should treat people with kindness. The trauma is truly overwhelming. Always happy to see Tex helping another team. Love the little nugget of funny about everyone knowing that guy Tex. Love Dash and Brinley together. He knows what he wants and doesn't shy away from showing Brinley how he feels. The scenes with his mother are beautiful. You will need tissues for the saddest one. Can't wait for the next installment of Delta Force Guardians.
October 8, 2026
"Rescuing Brinley" kicks off Susan Stoker’s new Delta Force Heroes: Guardian series with a gut‑punch reminder of how cruel people — especially kids — can be. Brinley’s past hurts, and Stoker doesn’t sugarcoat it.
Dash “Shadow” and Brinley’s meet‑cute is exactly that: sweet, awkward, and instantly magnetic. Their chemistry snaps into place so fast you practically hear the click.
And Cypress? Her battle cry — “We ride at dawn!” — when she thinks Dash dumped Brinley had me cackling. Every woman needs a Cypress in her corner.
The danger hits hard, the tears hit harder, and Brinley’s hidden strength shines through every chapter. Dash is the perfect blend of protective, patient, and “I will burn the world down for you” energy.
A strong, emotional series starter with heart, humor, and a heroine who refuses to stay broken.
Dash “Shadow” and Brinley’s meet‑cute is exactly that: sweet, awkward, and instantly magnetic. Their chemistry snaps into place so fast you practically hear the click.
And Cypress? Her battle cry — “We ride at dawn!” — when she thinks Dash dumped Brinley had me cackling. Every woman needs a Cypress in her corner.
The danger hits hard, the tears hit harder, and Brinley’s hidden strength shines through every chapter. Dash is the perfect blend of protective, patient, and “I will burn the world down for you” energy.
A strong, emotional series starter with heart, humor, and a heroine who refuses to stay broken.
September 9, 2026
bellissima storia di una nuova serie ma la traduzione........................
nuovo inizio di serie per la stoker e che aspettavo letta la sinossi in lingua e devo dire che dopo poche pagine davvero la storia straz@@@il cuore!brinley siamo tutte con lei, sopratutto per come si riprende la sua vita negli anni
il protagonista maschile invece è un pò in sordina, senza quel di più degli uomini stoker e riesce a conquistarsi un suo spazio solo verso la fine della storia (dove c'è il nostro amatissimo TEX!!!!)
nuova serie e nuova traduzione: ecco i tempi verbali se sono al passato devono concordare......diversi poi gli errori (scollinato????)di lessico
occorre fare riletture più attente perchè una storia così bella è penalizzata in italiano
preso in unlimited
quattro stelle
nuovo inizio di serie per la stoker e che aspettavo letta la sinossi in lingua e devo dire che dopo poche pagine davvero la storia straz@@@il cuore!brinley siamo tutte con lei, sopratutto per come si riprende la sua vita negli anni
il protagonista maschile invece è un pò in sordina, senza quel di più degli uomini stoker e riesce a conquistarsi un suo spazio solo verso la fine della storia (dove c'è il nostro amatissimo TEX!!!!)
nuova serie e nuova traduzione: ecco i tempi verbali se sono al passato devono concordare......diversi poi gli errori (scollinato????)di lessico
occorre fare riletture più attente perchè una storia così bella è penalizzata in italiano
preso in unlimited
quattro stelle
October 11, 2026
Susan has a way of making you feel like curling up in an armchair and settling with a blanket to read or listen to Her books. And this first book of her new series is exactly that it isn't like her Plots of military action and intense drama. It's more of a home grown problem, and it just ends beautifully. The heroine is starting to Formulate, like some of Susan's previous series and there is always a gentleman military man on board to boost befriend and love our heroine. No matter how different she is. The best bit about this book was that it was narrated duet style, which makes it all the more immersive and I loved both narratators.
Thanks. Susan, for a great start to what I'm feeling will be a great series.
Thanks. Susan, for a great start to what I'm feeling will be a great series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved Shadow and Brinley. I listened to the Audible Duet, then followed along with the paperback once that came in the mail, and it was fantastic! It started out terribly sad because how could anyone be so mean to a little girl?! But I loved how Shadow instantly saw something in Brinley and liked her immediately. Love the Alaska setting and wish I could go to the Staggering Moose myself.
I also love how Susan keeps coming up with different conflicts in her stories, like the one here about a family member. That was new for her and makes her stories and characters so relatable. Always love a Susan Stoker book and always looking forward to the next.
I also love how Susan keeps coming up with different conflicts in her stories, like the one here about a family member. That was new for her and makes her stories and characters so relatable. Always love a Susan Stoker book and always looking forward to the next.
September 23, 2026
Great first book in a new series, and Susan Stoker does it again! One of my most consistent fave authors always delivers. Brinley has had a rough childhood and has a lot of internal scars, but is a beautiful person through and through despite it all. Dash is mesmerized when he sees her while in a mission and her bravery and selflessness in the face of danger solidifies it. I love how open and honest these two are with each other. There is a lot of emotion and tough subjects touched on in this book but they are done with such sensitivity and grace. Please make sure to read the author’s note at the beginning of this book which brought tears to my eyes.
September 24, 2026
Rescuing Brinley is a great beginning to a new series. I really appreciate that Susan Stoker often has "imperfect" main characters in her stories because we are not all beautiful and perfectly proportioned or muscled individuals. Dash sees how Brinley's strength and kindness bring out her inner beauty. The story flows right along and the characters are realistic and likeable, well, except for the "villians" of the story. We are introduced to the rest of Dash's team and even get some teases as to who might share adventures in future stories 'tho this book definitely does not end as a cliffhanger. I am looking forward to the rest of the books in this series.
September 9, 2026
Thank you Susan for writing about real people! I could easily relate to Brinley as my own step mother was almost as nasty & my heart broke for Shadow when he lost his mom. Real men have real emotions, so glad he could express his & of course his lady supported him 100%. I love all of her characters & was happy the wonder god Tex made an appearance. Every character throughout the Susan Stoker universe could live next door, so refreshing. Great way to start this series. Can't wait to read about Cypress & Echo!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2026
New series!
I love the start of this new series set in Alaska! Brinley is a costume designer for beauty pageant contestants. Dash is a Delta Force operative stationed in Alaska, helping train soldiers in winter survival. They improbably meet at a pageant in Fiji when someone tries to kidnap the Vice President’s daughter. Pleased and surprised to learn they both live in Fairbanks, they slowly form a romance that is sweet as pie! Of course, there’s also a lot of danger because it’s Susan Stoker! Loved it!
Amazing narration by Emma Wilder and Robert Hatchet!
I love the start of this new series set in Alaska! Brinley is a costume designer for beauty pageant contestants. Dash is a Delta Force operative stationed in Alaska, helping train soldiers in winter survival. They improbably meet at a pageant in Fiji when someone tries to kidnap the Vice President’s daughter. Pleased and surprised to learn they both live in Fairbanks, they slowly form a romance that is sweet as pie! Of course, there’s also a lot of danger because it’s Susan Stoker! Loved it!
Amazing narration by Emma Wilder and Robert Hatchet!
October 2, 2026
Love Brinley!!!
Dash and his team are assigned the the Vice President and his family at a beauty pagent. Brinley is a costume and gown designer. She has a large business in the community and attends pagents to assist her clients. Dash and Brinley meet at the convention center. The click immediately. The pagent is targeted and Brinley and Dash act quickly to save some of the contestants. I love that Brinley is independent and so kind. Dash has her back when things take a bad turn. Very good!!! Loved it!!!
Dash and his team are assigned the the Vice President and his family at a beauty pagent. Brinley is a costume and gown designer. She has a large business in the community and attends pagents to assist her clients. Dash and Brinley meet at the convention center. The click immediately. The pagent is targeted and Brinley and Dash act quickly to save some of the contestants. I love that Brinley is independent and so kind. Dash has her back when things take a bad turn. Very good!!! Loved it!!!
October 29, 2026
Wow!
Who could believe that dreams could come true after a life time of being ridiculed and made to think that everyone saw you as ugly and worthless? Brimley had little doubt that she was hideous. Only her best friend saw anything of worth in her. Until Dash came to her rescue when she was being berated. And he he didn't stop there. Neither saw Tue day coming when Dash felt he had lost the woman he loved forever to a spoiled beauty pageant contestant seeking revenge. New series. New dangers. New possibilities. Great start!
Who could believe that dreams could come true after a life time of being ridiculed and made to think that everyone saw you as ugly and worthless? Brimley had little doubt that she was hideous. Only her best friend saw anything of worth in her. Until Dash came to her rescue when she was being berated. And he he didn't stop there. Neither saw Tue day coming when Dash felt he had lost the woman he loved forever to a spoiled beauty pageant contestant seeking revenge. New series. New dangers. New possibilities. Great start!
September 12, 2026
A new series that is suspenseful and a love story that you can't help but swoon over!! Dash and Brinley have an amazing chemistry!! With Brinley having a whole life of being bullied and put down, it took time for Dash to break down her defence to let him into her heart!! Loved this story and can't wait for Cypress's story next!! Love this new team and being in Alaska!! Grab this book and enjoy this love story!!
September 13, 2026
I liked the main characters. Didn’t really get much of the side characters beyond their names. I could have done with less time spent listening to the vitriol spewed by numerous characters at Brinley. It seemed unrealistic that so many people would overreact to her looks to the point of yelling at her about it. I have never seen anyone act like that in public in my 60+ years of life, here in Canada. Do people act like that in the states?
September 13, 2026
She's done it again!
I am so glad Mrs. Stoker writes such wonderful books. Brinley and Dash are my new favorite couple, and, as usual end up going thru hell in more ways than one. I'm not going to say what happens, you're going to have to find out your self, but I do want you to know that it's a HEA! Thank you for your wonderful imagination Susan! If I could, I'd give it ten stars!
I am so glad Mrs. Stoker writes such wonderful books. Brinley and Dash are my new favorite couple, and, as usual end up going thru hell in more ways than one. I'm not going to say what happens, you're going to have to find out your self, but I do want you to know that it's a HEA! Thank you for your wonderful imagination Susan! If I could, I'd give it ten stars!
September 4, 2026
There were moments in this that my heart was probably beating as fast as the characters, as we started off with high octane moments before we settled into the getting to know you phase. Brinley captured my heart from the beginning and never let it go. That she overcame so much, those internal demons that plagued her all her life, to have the life she deserved, was simply wonderful <3
September 8, 2026
Susan's best book yet
Amazing story. It's 2:58 in the morning and I have just finished reading it. It's easily the most emotional book yet. There were a few times where I was wiping the tears away so I could see the words. Excellent series starter and I can't wait for the next instalment.
Amazing story. It's 2:58 in the morning and I have just finished reading it. It's easily the most emotional book yet. There were a few times where I was wiping the tears away so I could see the words. Excellent series starter and I can't wait for the next instalment.
September 11, 2026
Shadow & Brinley
I cannot even fathom how Brinley became the wonderful person that she is with the evil mother and sister that she has. She literally had everything against her - except her best friend - and she became the kindest, sweetest person ever. I love Shadow and Brinley together. Very excited for more from this team.
I cannot even fathom how Brinley became the wonderful person that she is with the evil mother and sister that she has. She literally had everything against her - except her best friend - and she became the kindest, sweetest person ever. I love Shadow and Brinley together. Very excited for more from this team.
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