Mark Aleki Rogers left the Navy SEALs behind, but he found another use for his special skills. He and his fellow “Brothers-in-Arms” now run an intense boot camp that trains civilians to survive extreme situations. Mark’s size is intimidating, but the half-Samoan surfer is an eternal optimist. A suspicious string of suicides among SEALs, however, has Mark convinced it’s murder. He’s determined to get to the bottom of it…quietly. If he doesn’t, a murderer may go free.
Reporter Geneva Rios has come to the California coast looking for a story. The recent SEAL suicides are connected to the Brothers-in-Arms, and Geneva wants to know more. The interview she’s hoping for, though, comes at a price. The smoking-hot SEAL won’t talk unless she completes his training course. If she can survive Mark’s audition, she’ll have the angle she needs. Spending more time with Mark has its own perks, but for the exotic brunette, exposing the Navy SEALs is more than just a story…it’s personal.
As the heat between them reaches its boiling point, the pair puts more than their heads together. But with their own lives in danger, can they catch a killer before it’s too late?
New to Leslie? Readers suggest starting with 'The Bossy One' (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6BP3BBF) —Imagine a sunny Minnesotan Mary Poppins, employed by a grumpy Irish billionaire. The story is a blend of humor, revenge, passion, heartbreak, hope, and witty banter. As one reader put it, ‘This story had me squealing at the romantic moments and silly moments.’
Leslie North is the USA Today Bestselling pseudonym for a critically-acclaimed author of romantic comedies and contemporary romance. The anonymity allows her to fully express her creativity, especially in the romantic and fun sexy scenes!
In fact, she confesses to loving her fictional persona, Leslie North, more than her everyday self! Her bestselling books are known for their strong characters, particularly women who aren’t afraid to challenge an alpha bosshole. And the humor? So infectious, you’ll be laughing out loud in public!
Leslie’s love for romance began when she picked up a worn-out romance book from her local library. She started writing soon after, and as they say, the rest was history. She now resides in a cozy cottage on the British coast, enjoying long walks with her two Dalmatians, George and Fergie.
She LOVES reader feedback, and if you have any comments, don’t hesitate to contact her!
Mark Aleki Rogers, ex Navy SEAL, runs Brother in Arms with his two SEAL comrades - a security business that teaches civilians and service-people specialist skills. Mark doesn’t trust the media and their profit-seeking, gluttonous mentality, but when a recent string of SEAL suicides brings reporter Geneva Rios to his home and business, Mark’s hackles rise as his instincts report flaring suspicion. Something suspicious this ways comes, it seems. But this case presents a conflict of interest for both Geneva and Mark as this becomes a personal mission to seek out the truth - for Geneva this undertaking is all in the name of her brother, and for Mark, he doesn’t trust the nature of these ‘suicides’ at all. I give this story points for a culturally diverse relationship - Mark is half Samoan and Geneva is Mexican Irish, but the author attempts to stress the race of both characters too much to pacify us of their distinct heritage. This story has a great idea for a plot, fantastic even if I’m being honest, but when I started reading I knew I wasn’t going to gel with this story as neither did the execution, the relationship or the development shine for me, and with many proofreading errors it made for uncomfortable reading. With an authentic premise I was surprised to rifle through a story that fell sharply into a position of well-defined wariness and then complete reservation. Overall, Seal Defender was kindred to a blanket with friable stitching that held itself together. I tried to like it, but It was a stunted read as It’s no easy feat to draw enthusiasm from a story that motivates a lot of ambivalence.
Trigger Warnings: Military suicide, mental health in the military - PTSD, depression. Swearing and a few sex scenes. The plot explores white supremacy with instances of racism.
Mark Rogers and his other ex-Navy Seal partners run a boot camp that trains civilians to defend themselves in extreme situations. There has been a string of suicides among SEALs that Mark suspects were not suicides ... but murder.
Geneva Rios is a reporter who wants to get at the truth about the apparent suicides that somehow are connected to Rogers' boot camp. Her brother was also a SEAL who committed suicide. She will do everything she can to get to the truth.
There's a lot of mistrust and suspicion from both Rogers and Rios, but they're going to have to work together if they want to get at the truth. There's also a lot of attraction and a lot of spice in the bedroom.
As the heat between them reaches its boiling point, the pair puts more than their heads together. But with their own lives in danger, can they catch a killer before it’s too late?
Many thanks to the author / Relay Publishing / Netgalley for the digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Having been pleasantly surprised by North's Karev Brothers series, I didn't hesitate to request SEAL DEFENDER when I saw it available for review. I didn't have high expectations, not exactly, but I did anticipate a short-ish, thrilling, sexy, fun, ride -- with an added bonus of gravitas considering the tragedy surrounding the mysterious suicides of ex-SEALs. Something enjoyable to pass the time.
Welllll it was short-ish.
Honestly, I don't know what happened here. The plot felt like it was being held together by dental floss, the romantic entanglement was ridiculous, the dialogue awkward, the sex was lame, the inclusion of a diverse couple and a lead protag with a culturally exotic background was as subtle as a cast iron skillet to the face, the backstory and present-day secrets and angst painful.. this actually felt like it was written by a completely different author (and don't get me started on some of the editing, or lack thereof). Or maybe the Karev Brothers series was the exception? I have no idea.
I was so close to hitting the DNF button on this one (multiple times, but especially after Mark claims he's "meant to be" with Geneva after two days together and one lukewarm encounter between the sheets, despite disparaging her and refusing to trust her from the moment they met) but I persevered in order to alleviate any potential reviewer-guilt.. but that perseverance definitely didn't do me any other favours. This is one series I won't be continuing.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
I went into SEAL Defender not really knowing what to expect, but that an investigation into some soldiers' apparent suicides and a personal tragedy would dovetail.
Not quite.
The story took a turn I wasn't entirely too sure I could get into, and maybe because it's a quick, fast-faced read, if not unbelievable for the skin-deep connection that both characters seem to try to make more of but fail. I didn't feel any emotional ties between Mark and Geneva and the way the latter harped on her work and her constant dedication to being a good reporter who hunted all angles irked me. As it was difficult to root for them as a couple, I thought the story lost its grasp on the romance when it seemed to force characters who have nothing but physical attraction to each other together. But if the suspense bit is what you're chomping after, then this read would probably fit rather well.
There are two constants with a Leslie North novel. No story is never half - ***. She delivers the goods, whether in the form of high octane suspense or sizzling sex appeal. Addiction is her middle name and she lives up to it. Seal Defender is a combination of tension filled moments, intriguing mysteries and sensual romance. Whether on the run from danger or looking for clues to a puzzle, Geneva and Mark make all the right moves to bulls eye the senses and get the job done.
SEAL Defender was an exciting romantic suspense book that perfectly sets up an intriguing story-line for Leslie North's new Brothers in Arms series.
Mark Rogers is a former Navy SEAL who, with two men from his unit, has opened a security firm that includes a boot camp that teaches civilians survival techniques the men learned while in the SEALs. Within the last six months, two former SEALs who worked at Brothers-in-Arms have committed suicide. However, Mark and his friends don't believe the deaths were suicide and that someone may be murdering former Navy SEALs and making the deaths look self-inflicted. Enter reporter Geneva Rios who is looking to write a story about the recent SEAL suicides and finds her way to the Brothers-in-Arms looking for more information.
I liked Mark and Geneva together right from the start. The two were full of banter and had an immediate chemistry that had me loving all of their scenes together. While the two obviously had reservations about each other, they were able to work through them and come out stronger for it.
All of the interactions with Mark's family and the fellow brothers in arms were absolutely delightful (in particular I loved the scenes with Mark's sister Leila). Mark, Vann and Jace obviously care deeply for each other and the friendship was truly amazing.
The author included a very interesting plot-line dealing with racism and politics that I feel is very relevant to today's world and I liked seeing it included. It's not something you see talked about a lot in books, so it was a definite plus. I'm hoping the plot-line continues in the rest of the series.
While I picked up SEAL Defender on a complete whim when the cover caught my eye while scrolling through Netgalley, I ended up really enjoying the book and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series when it releases later this Spring. I'd definitely recommend SEAL Defender to anyone looking for a fast-paced and action-packed romantic suspense read.
** I received a copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Mark Rogers, former Navy Seal, is sure that two of his Navy Seal buddies did not commit suicide and with the help of his friends, Jace and Vann, they plan to find out who murdered these men. When reporter Geneva Rios comes around asking questions he tries all he knows to do to keep her at arms length but this doesn’t work for very long. Pretty soon they are the targets of someone trying to kill them and are in bed together.
With this book this author has written a good suspense/romance story. I enjoyed that part of the story. I thought Mark was a great hero and strong, family man who cared for not only his sister and mother but also his “not blood brothers” as well. Mark was such a man of honor almost to the point where he held everyone around him to an almost ridiculous standard.
However, I had issues with some of the subject matter in this story. As stated, it does not take away from the talent of this author to write a good love story. This is just my personal point of view. When I read, I read to escape the craziness in our world today, not to have this as a part of the romance I’m reading. Therefore, as I’m sure Book 2 and 3 will be just as good as this one, I’m not sure I’ll be reading either one.
I absolutely agree with the author that our men in the military aren’t getting the help and support they need and deserve. It really is such a shame.
A hot new SEAL book from Leslie North! When Mark Rogers looses two brothers in arms to apparent suicides he will not stop until he finds out the truth behind their deaths and helps their families left behind because his gut is telling him there is more to their deaths than just suicide. Geneva Rios show up in town looking for a story about the tragic increase in suicide in soldiers returning home, with the death of her brother she has personal experience too, but finds herself hitting a brick wall by the name of Mark. Mark and Geneva will have to work together to get to the bottom of what really happened and find more than they were expecting when they fall for each other. their story isn't easy, they are both stubborn. They will do whatever it takes to learn the truth and when Mark finds himself in trouble Geneva will work with his business partners to find him. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this bok.
Headline: I hate commercials! Can the next book in the series come out tomorrow please! I received an ARC version of SEAL Defender by Leslie North for a voluntary and honest review. Its safe to say I smiled and did a little bit…okay, alot of squealing throughout this entire book. I’m a little upset now that I read the ARC. NOT because I don’t like the book. I LOVED the book. I just don’t like commercials. Considering this is an ARC, I now have an even longer than normal “commercial” to get through before I can read the next book. I love me some pacific islander men. They are so sexy with their looks and their tattoos and especially their devotion to family. So, Mark was the perfect man for me. Geneva wasn’t that bad either. Can’t wait to see what happens with the other characters in the next books. Well done Leslie. Happy reading everybody!
Seal Defender by Leslie North is book number one in the Brothers In Arms series. This is Navy Seals Mark Aleki Rogers and reporter Geneva Rios' story.
Mark and his several Navy Seals' brothers started a survival boot camp for citizens. They are also investigating a string of suicides among Seals. Geneva has been given the assignment to investigate these suicides by her paper. So, Mark and Geneva paths cross.
Mark and Geneva each have their own reason for investigating the Seals suicides. What they didn't expect was the intense chemistry between them. Will they keep their eye on their goal or give in to this attraction?
From the fun and flirty banter, the suspense, to the steamy intimate scenes this book will keep you on the edge of your seat. I look forward to reading the next books in this series.
FYI, contains mature content. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Omg what a excellent start to a new series love all the guys.
Mark Rogers is an ex-seal who owns and runs Brothers In Arms Security with two of his team mates in Ortega where he grew up, Two of Marks employees ex-seals have died and Mark wants to investigate them quietly. Geneva Rios is a reporter and has come to Ortega for a story about the recent deaths of navy seals and wants to make the military change the way veterans are treated when they come home. Mark doesn't like the journalists after what happened to him before and doesn't like lying holding everyone to higher standards than himself. When Mark challenges Geneva to take part in a class they are having to be able to find interview him she accepts, when they start spending more time together they both start to feel things that they don't want to do push each other away, but when no one can find Mark Geneva realizes what he means to her so with Jace and vann's help they get the answers they have all been looking for about he deaths and find Mark. Can't wait to read next book for what happens next in the Brothers In Arms Series.
Quick fast paced read! Hunky alpha males and a bright smart and strong female. Plot surrounds the mystery of why 2 navy seals would commit suicide and the reporter who shows up at the boot camp type business Brothers in Arms to investigate. The 3 ex-seals running the camp are hot, strong and sexy and totally convinced that their friends would never have chosen suicide as an answer. There is a cliffhanger but the HEA is there and the sizzling sex was well done. All in all a great read and I will be looking for the rest of the series because that cliffhanger is a doozy!! Got to find out what happens next!
Mark and his fellow Seals are retired but are running a new company for teaching the public about situations that can occur and survival. A reporter comes to town investigating a series of Seal deaths and Mark joins forces with her after finding they are working toward the same goals. Will keep you turning pages from the first page to see what is the mystery and how these two find a common pathway.
eBook from Net Galley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are entirely my own.
New Series .. 5 Star hottie .. Brothers in Arms in the newest series from our talented Author Ms North. This book definitely does not disappoint, it a fast paced action adventure, suspected suicide / murder, neglected Vets and there family, corrupt politicians.. Wonderful. I would highly recommend as this book crosses genres. It's easy to read style. Great character development, who are also interesting with a good plot. Throw in tall dark handsome men and a very outspoken feisty reporter on a mission to find her story and help Veterans at the same time. I can't wait for the next instalment.
Mark Rogers, ex-navy seal, and Geneva Rios, a reporter, are individually investigating why ex-navy seals are committing suicide. A suspense with a lot of action and danger, mystery and romance book. Great beginning of this series, can't wait to get the next one! Received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was my first read from Leslie North, so I didn't know quite what to expect as I received this as an ARC for review. This was an easy read and kept me interested as I continued from page to page. I enjoyed the banter and the chemistry between Mark and Gen, but I can't help but wonder what's next for these two. I felt like their relationship could've been developed a little more. Looking forward to the next book in the series featuring Vann as the male lead.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I enjoyed this gritty, action packed story. Always seemed to be on the edge of my seat not knowing what was going to happen next. Good book.
The plot was interesting, but to be honest I am avoid the news to not hear about politics. Mark made too many questionable choices for a former Navy SEAL. The girls were much wiser, especially his sister. To get closure on the plot, you will need to read the complete series. I doubt I will.
Leslie North sets up her new series, Brothers in Arms, with the perfect mix of danger, romance, and suspense with SEAL Defender as Book One in the new series. This book was an amazing read with just the right blend of action, family, and hot ex-military guys.
If you're looking for something to peak your interest...and you love a good romantic suspense novel that hits all the right buttons with a great storyline, delicious characters, and a good locale--pick up SEAL Defender today! (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and really enjoyed it!) ❤
This is an exciting starting novel in the Brothers in Arms series.
Mark & Geneva both have trust issues, and this makes them both stubborn. It was entertaining seeing them both dance around the truth of their feelings.
I loved the romance, but I was really intrigued by the mystery. I can't wait to read the next installment in the series. I also liked that the author injected reality into the book with a little politics. I liked the close-knit relationship Mark, Vann & Jace have.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this novel.
I am voluntarily leaving an honest review of this book based on an advanced readers copy I received. If you love military romances then you'll definitely love Seal Defender. It was absolutely amazing. A definite one-click.
This is a fast paced, action packed, mysterious and romantic read. The suspense will keep you turning the pages. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
This is a well written story that hits on some very real issues including racism and suicide in the military along with the romantic story at the heart. I liked the characters. These Seals are very devoted to each other and I loved the depiction of their strong friendships. Mark and Geneva have an antagonistic relationship in the beginning but the attraction develops as they get to know each other. They are both strong individuals and make a great couple. There are some good surprise and twists to the story.
Family is number 1 in Mark's life. Be it his mother and sister....his business partners........or his SEAl brothers. When SEAL's are ending up dead and it is being classified as suicide...Mark has his doubts but he needs proof. When a sexy reporter show's up at his door looking for a story, Mark has no idea she wants answers to her brothers suicide. Can these two work together to get to the bottom of this mystery? You will not be able to put the book down.
SEAL Defender is the first book in the Brothers in Arms series. Retired Navy Seal Mark Rogers and Geneva Rios, a reporter, are singularly investigating an unusual amount of retired Navy Seals committing suicide. This is a fast-paced story full of suspense, action and romance. I look forward to reading more of this series
A fast paced, well-written military romance story with an intriguing story-line, interesting characters, and plenty of danger, suspense, foul play, and mystery.
I volunteered to review an advanced readers copy of this book.
I enjoyed most of this book; the story flowed well most of the time but there were somethings that didn't really make a lot of sense. It felt like there were plot holes in a few places and at times the characters seemed off. The characters were okay for the most part, but I would have liked to have seen them more developed. Mark was interesting; he's a Navy SEAL turned business owner and has a huge heart for family. I would have liked to have learned more about his SEAL training and how he got the idea to start his business, Brothers in Arms. How did that training help him with his business?
Genevra was flat in my opinion. She never seemed to really grasp how important family is, not just in the Samoan culture but also in the military. Being a military wife, I get that my husband's unit is not just a group of people: they're his brothers and sisters and he would do anything for them. Mark tries to make that clear to her numerous times but Genevra just doesn't get it. I would have liked to have seen her grow more and try to understand. She should understand since her brother was in the military. That's another part that didn't really flow well; her brother committed suicide after getting out of the military. We don't know what branch, we don't know background about his combat tour that led to his PTSD, we don't know much of anything other than he's dead.
Another thing that bothered me is that the main issues in this story were never brought full circle; there's no closure. I'm not sure if in the next book these issues are given closure or not. I'm probably not going to read them and I doubt that I would recommend this book to anyone.