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Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #10
Justice for Milena
Once she's in his sights he'll crawl through hell to get her back. It’s been years since Milena Reinhardt has seen TJ “Rock” Rockwell. The last time, he was nearly a shell of a man…but he was her man…and he tore her heart out of her chest. Circumstances unbeknownst to TJ have ensured Milena’s never fully recovered.TJ left his sniper days behind—for the most part—when he left the Army and become a respected Texas Highway Patrolman. He also left behind Milena. He’s convinced it was the right thing to do at the time, but that doesn’t mean he’s ever forgotten the woman who loved him in his greatest time of need…or has stopped thinking of her since.Neither thought they’d see each other again, until a pedophile’s operation is taken down and the evil man sets his vengeful sights on Milena. This could be their second chance, even though TJ and Milena have enough secrets and trust issues to end any relationship before it starts. But when the bad guy closes in, they’ll have to set aside their fears and trust in each other, to save the one thing that means the world to them both.** Justice for Milena is the 10th book in the Badge of Texas Heroes Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.** TJ and Milena face a truly nasty foe. While his sins are never described on the page, certain basic information is included for the characters to grasp the full breadth of the villain’s evilness. For my more delicate readers, please remember…good always triumphs over evil.
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 13, 2018
1028 people are currently reading
809 people want to read
About the author
Susan Stoker
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New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
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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 240 reviews
July 10, 2019
JUSTICE FOR MILENA by Susan Stoker. Wow! Ms. Stoker blew me away with this one! I simply adored all the characters and the storyline grabbed on and wouldn't let go. Milena and TJ are perfect together. TJ is a super sexy man of the law but beyond that, he's tender and kind and loving - just made me swoon. Milena is my type of heroine - she's strong yet knows when she needs to lean on others. And JT - stole my heart! Ms. Stoker fills the tale with action, suspense, a bit of mystery and some really, really evil bad guys. Being a fan of Ms. Stoker and having read the previous books (although completely not necessary to enjoy this one), it was also fun to meet up with previous characters and this author is such a tease - there are hints of what is to come in future books and I, for one, cannot wait. For readers that like tales that are filled with heartwarming characters, maniacal bad guys, and a story that keeps you invested throughout, do no miss JUSTICE FOR MILENA!
March 7, 2018
***5 Stars***
Oh boy. Lots and LOTS going on in this one. We have a second chance romance ~ which was all kinds of sweet and smexy and had a nice little twist dropped in there for good measure. Psycho baddies ~ that’s right, not one but two baddies who definitely landed on their heads when they went down the rabbit hole. And not one, but two teases for upcoming books. On top of trying to keep who everyone is and where they belong (series wise) this one definitely made my head spin a bit, but I wouldn’t have had it any other way as I kept turning the pages to see what would happen next.
TJ is determined in that way that only an Alpha AF male could be and yet has no problem showing his softer side. He’s made mistakes, but the way he owns up to them with blunt, open honesty made it easy to forgive him and fall in love with him. Milena I loved, I did. The woman is compassionate and is determined to make her own way, but understands that asking for help and accepting it when it is offered is also part of the process, but...I did have to question how she didn’t realize the situation she was apart of was hinky. That was my only real WTF?!? Moment with her, but it was still a moment.
TJ and Milena’s second chance journey was actually all kinds of heartwarming. Things progress slowly between them, as they should considering what happened between them, but I really liked how honest they both were with each other ~ even if it took a bit of prodding by outside sources. I loved how TJ basically bared his soul to Milena and how she, in turn, kept her heart and mind open enough to see what he was laying down for her. There were a bunch of swoon worthy moments as well as smexy ones and in the end I couldn’t have been happier for them.
It appears, at least in the last two reads I’ve done by Ms. Stoker, that her baddies have absolutely fascinated me. They are all kinds of wrong and psychotic, but fascinating and Jeremiah and Jonathan are all kinds of cray cray. The way they view themselves and their place in the world is intriguing and frightening, but they definitely helped to keep me turning the pages.
As I said in the beginning, a lot happens in this book. Lots of characters from this series and the others that have crossed paths, I swear I need to have a family tree in front of me just to keep everyone straight, and two future storylines getting a jump start in the epilogue. It was a lot to take in at times, but it was a fun ride and I’m totally looking forward to what’s coming up next!
~ Copy provided by RockStar PR Lit & voluntarily reviewed ~
Oh boy. Lots and LOTS going on in this one. We have a second chance romance ~ which was all kinds of sweet and smexy and had a nice little twist dropped in there for good measure. Psycho baddies ~ that’s right, not one but two baddies who definitely landed on their heads when they went down the rabbit hole. And not one, but two teases for upcoming books. On top of trying to keep who everyone is and where they belong (series wise) this one definitely made my head spin a bit, but I wouldn’t have had it any other way as I kept turning the pages to see what would happen next.
TJ is determined in that way that only an Alpha AF male could be and yet has no problem showing his softer side. He’s made mistakes, but the way he owns up to them with blunt, open honesty made it easy to forgive him and fall in love with him. Milena I loved, I did. The woman is compassionate and is determined to make her own way, but understands that asking for help and accepting it when it is offered is also part of the process, but...I did have to question how she didn’t realize the situation she was apart of was hinky. That was my only real WTF?!? Moment with her, but it was still a moment.
TJ and Milena’s second chance journey was actually all kinds of heartwarming. Things progress slowly between them, as they should considering what happened between them, but I really liked how honest they both were with each other ~ even if it took a bit of prodding by outside sources. I loved how TJ basically bared his soul to Milena and how she, in turn, kept her heart and mind open enough to see what he was laying down for her. There were a bunch of swoon worthy moments as well as smexy ones and in the end I couldn’t have been happier for them.
It appears, at least in the last two reads I’ve done by Ms. Stoker, that her baddies have absolutely fascinated me. They are all kinds of wrong and psychotic, but fascinating and Jeremiah and Jonathan are all kinds of cray cray. The way they view themselves and their place in the world is intriguing and frightening, but they definitely helped to keep me turning the pages.
As I said in the beginning, a lot happens in this book. Lots of characters from this series and the others that have crossed paths, I swear I need to have a family tree in front of me just to keep everyone straight, and two future storylines getting a jump start in the epilogue. It was a lot to take in at times, but it was a fun ride and I’m totally looking forward to what’s coming up next!
~ Copy provided by RockStar PR Lit & voluntarily reviewed ~
August 17, 2018
Hotness Rating 3 out of 5
Review to come...
Review to come...
March 11, 2018
Book 10 in the amazing badge of honour series by Susan Stoker. We always get a little teaser in the back of the book before for the up coming book and I always get excited as the release date gets nearer and nearer especially when it's a characters book that I have been waiting for. It was great to finally read all about TJ Rockwell. He has been injured and the rest of his team is dead after an ambush whilst on a mission. So home at hospital recovery from his injuries her meets Melina and love seems to blossom between them until TJ thinks she can do better and leaves her.
3 years later and Melina is working between a clinic and orphanage with her friend, Sadie in tow. As she is helping a girl give birth the place better raided and Sadie and Melina are carted off to answer questions from the FBI. Now as soon as I read this lot I was thinking hard, now who could of told the FBI? So as we go on with the story we find out that the father and son team who ran the orphanage are now after Melina, thinking she sold them out. The father, Jeremiah, wants Melina and his son, Johnathan, wants Sadie.
TJ comes back on the scene and thinks Melina is danger. When the father and son start to target her it's now down to TJ and his friends to protect her. Can TJ save Melina from the Jones's before it's to late? A great read from start to finish and I can't wait to read more about Sadie as we got to see a little bit about her. I voluntarily reviewed this book as an advanced reader copy
3 years later and Melina is working between a clinic and orphanage with her friend, Sadie in tow. As she is helping a girl give birth the place better raided and Sadie and Melina are carted off to answer questions from the FBI. Now as soon as I read this lot I was thinking hard, now who could of told the FBI? So as we go on with the story we find out that the father and son team who ran the orphanage are now after Melina, thinking she sold them out. The father, Jeremiah, wants Melina and his son, Johnathan, wants Sadie.
TJ comes back on the scene and thinks Melina is danger. When the father and son start to target her it's now down to TJ and his friends to protect her. Can TJ save Melina from the Jones's before it's to late? A great read from start to finish and I can't wait to read more about Sadie as we got to see a little bit about her. I voluntarily reviewed this book as an advanced reader copy
October 19, 2020
I normally like this author's books but this one didn't do it for me.
March 15, 2018
Susan Stoker has another book out in her Badge of Honor series, and this time one of her characters, Sadie, who is friends with Milena, is lovingly borrowed from Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries series. Sadie’s crossover book will be out in April, and I’m very excited.
Milena is a nurse, and her and TJ have a relationship 3 years prior when TJ is in a VA rehab hospital that she works in. TJ has been hurt after his whole unit is killed, and he ends up leaving Milena after they are together for 4 months, but not without leaving her with a surprise.
Yeah, we all know it was a baby. (And let me say here I really loathe secret baby romances to the nth degree. Sorry, but I do.)
So Milena finds herself in a world of trouble when the girls school and orphanage she works at part time is a front for abuse and sex trafficking. TJ is there with his FBI friend and Milena is devastated. But her and TJ have it out, and he’s also rather shocked to find out he has a 2 year old son named JT. (Here’s where it drove me crazy between TJ and JT)
But the two owners manage to get away, and of course, blame Milena, and her bestie Sophie! So protection it is, and it is a slow progression to get these 2 kids together.
We do get some tidbits into Sophie’s book, Blythe (who also had an appearance in Chief’s book) and Hope as well. Still, I love anything Stoker does.
Milena is a nurse, and her and TJ have a relationship 3 years prior when TJ is in a VA rehab hospital that she works in. TJ has been hurt after his whole unit is killed, and he ends up leaving Milena after they are together for 4 months, but not without leaving her with a surprise.
Yeah, we all know it was a baby. (And let me say here I really loathe secret baby romances to the nth degree. Sorry, but I do.)
So Milena finds herself in a world of trouble when the girls school and orphanage she works at part time is a front for abuse and sex trafficking. TJ is there with his FBI friend and Milena is devastated. But her and TJ have it out, and he’s also rather shocked to find out he has a 2 year old son named JT. (Here’s where it drove me crazy between TJ and JT)
But the two owners manage to get away, and of course, blame Milena, and her bestie Sophie! So protection it is, and it is a slow progression to get these 2 kids together.
We do get some tidbits into Sophie’s book, Blythe (who also had an appearance in Chief’s book) and Hope as well. Still, I love anything Stoker does.
July 17, 2022
Honestly I did not think Susan Stoker's books could get any better, but she sure proved me so very wrong. And hopefully others will love this book as much as I did.
Milena Reinhart had not seen TJ "Rock Rockwell in years, he hurt her deeply and she had not fully recovered as of yet.
TJ left the service behind and now is a respected Texas Highway Patrolman, but he never ever forgot the girl he loved and being a man gave her up thinking he was not good enough for her.
Neither believed that they would see each other again. But when a pedophile operation is taken down they see each other again.
He sets his sights on Milena, TJ foes gets a second chance. Both have secrets that could end any relationship they might have before it even starts. When the bad man threatens the one thong that means the world to them both, they will have to trust each other.
All the characters are back also, rounding the story well told, how can one spin such a tale that can keep you entranced for hours.
Milena Reinhart had not seen TJ "Rock Rockwell in years, he hurt her deeply and she had not fully recovered as of yet.
TJ left the service behind and now is a respected Texas Highway Patrolman, but he never ever forgot the girl he loved and being a man gave her up thinking he was not good enough for her.
Neither believed that they would see each other again. But when a pedophile operation is taken down they see each other again.
He sets his sights on Milena, TJ foes gets a second chance. Both have secrets that could end any relationship they might have before it even starts. When the bad man threatens the one thong that means the world to them both, they will have to trust each other.
All the characters are back also, rounding the story well told, how can one spin such a tale that can keep you entranced for hours.
January 29, 2024
Re-reading this series again while working my way through the Operation Alpha collection of authors.
TJ walked away from the love of his life 3 years ago. He was still healing from his time as a Delta Force soldier and he thought he was doing Milena a favor by leaving her. Little did he know, it was the biggest mistake of his life. Only now, he has the opportunity to make up for it and keep her safe. Especially since she's in some serious danger.
But there are secrets that he doesn't know about. There's a reason why she's living in the same city as him now. And he's in for quite the surprise when he realizes what all he really walked away from.
TJ walked away from the love of his life 3 years ago. He was still healing from his time as a Delta Force soldier and he thought he was doing Milena a favor by leaving her. Little did he know, it was the biggest mistake of his life. Only now, he has the opportunity to make up for it and keep her safe. Especially since she's in some serious danger.
But there are secrets that he doesn't know about. There's a reason why she's living in the same city as him now. And he's in for quite the surprise when he realizes what all he really walked away from.
March 28, 2018
I rave about Susan Stoker on this blog! Seriously, I even convinced my mom to read her books. I love that she publishes so frequently because I always have something great to read! Justice for Milena is part of the Badge of Honor series but is a stand alone. The plot does set up the plot for 2 upcoming books as well!
Milena and TJ were in love until he left her without a word. Typical guy-he thought he was too broken for her. Fast forward 3 years and TJ, the highway patrolman, crosses paths with Milena when she is found to be working as a nurse in a very shady 'school'. This 'school' and its 'master' create the conflict of the story and its very disturbing. The school was a front for child abuse and human trafficking. I thought that Stoker handled the topic with delicacy and didn't make it graphic. Human trafficking is one of the biggest problems facing the world today and it happens everywhere! I thought the story was realistic in the portrayal of this terrible ill of society.
Romantically, you have a second chance story. TJ realizes what a huge mistake he made. He did try (a little) to find her after he left, but she had already moved. Milena did search for TJ because she had something VERY important to tell him, but he was gone. Milena is very forgiving and caring. I don't know that I would have been as forgiving as her and certainly not as trusting again. But, I'm a cynical bitch!
Overall, Justice for Milena was a story packed with legitimate danger, really deplorable bad guys, and a love story that will make you sigh in content.
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: second chance
Triggers:
Series/Standalone: stand alone within an interconnected series
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
Celebrating Love by Maryann Jordan, After the Dark by Cynthia Eden, Dangerous Witness by Katie Reus...then you will probably like Justice for Milena!
Justice for Milena
See full review on The Book Disciple
April 25, 2021
Oh, my god!! 😱😱
Que e-book, sempre estou lendo fora de ordem, mas nossa quando eu li a sinopse não deu para resistir, e tive que ler... E ainda bem que li... Tudo estava perfect, wonderful.. Cada página, capítulo foi muito mais muito bem escrito...
Despois da ficar triste com o e-book da Securing Sidney, esse veio e arrancou meu coração...
Meu coraçãozinho quase que explode no peito...
Milena Reinhardt and TJ “Rock” Rockwell. 🥰🥰🥰
Milena é o tipo de mulher que luta por quem ama, mesmo sofrendo no passado, ela continuou amando em segredo, e quando o dono de seu coração volta para ficar, pois TJ passou por poucas e boas na Forças Especiais, mas tomou um decisão muito dolorosa para ele, mas agora que finalmente tem a chance de recuperar o que mais ama na vida, vai fazer de tudo para conseguir isso.. O que ele não esperava é um pequeninho segredo que tem dois anos, e que vem roubar seu coração também...
Não tem como não amar esse e-Book... 🥰🥰
Boa leitura... Good reading!!
April 9, 2018
With how this book opened up I didn't care for TJ very much. I'm not a big fan of I'm not good enough for you, so I'll leave and then to not even bother to leave a note, give me a break, you need to man up.
TJ did redeem himself later and in a huge way. He let Milena know that she was one of the most important people in his life by words and actions. I liked the talk that TJ had with both of Milena's parents and the lengths he went to protect her. I also loved that TJ didn't think a relationship with Milena was a done deal, but that they went slow to see if that was something they both wanted.
To say that the situation that Milena needed help with was fucked up is being subtle. As things were described I was stunned, could barely comprehend what I was reading. I was glad this was fiction, but the sad thing is that this probably has happened and that breaks my heart.
I was glad to see that Milena and TJ got their HEA, they deserved it.
TJ did redeem himself later and in a huge way. He let Milena know that she was one of the most important people in his life by words and actions. I liked the talk that TJ had with both of Milena's parents and the lengths he went to protect her. I also loved that TJ didn't think a relationship with Milena was a done deal, but that they went slow to see if that was something they both wanted.
To say that the situation that Milena needed help with was fucked up is being subtle. As things were described I was stunned, could barely comprehend what I was reading. I was glad this was fiction, but the sad thing is that this probably has happened and that breaks my heart.
I was glad to see that Milena and TJ got their HEA, they deserved it.
August 13, 2019
A awesome read
Tj a man who was angry and full.of pain. He loved her but he wasnt good enough for her.
Milens a kind women who just had her hesrt ripped out, the pain and what she had to face was to much. Susan stoke brings you real issues that you may not think could hsppen but they do. Her characters pullbyou in and each page is full of emotions . Spectacular, well written , and full of suspense is ehat you will get with each and every book.
Tj a man who was angry and full.of pain. He loved her but he wasnt good enough for her.
Milens a kind women who just had her hesrt ripped out, the pain and what she had to face was to much. Susan stoke brings you real issues that you may not think could hsppen but they do. Her characters pullbyou in and each page is full of emotions . Spectacular, well written , and full of suspense is ehat you will get with each and every book.
March 20, 2018
Glad we finally got JT's book!
JT has been a fixture in multiple series she's written and I am glad he finally got his happily ever after.
Milena and TJ were wonderful additions to the Texas Heroes family and this has me pumped for Sadie's story (and crossover with out Delta boys).
I am running out of Susan Stoker books to read!
JT has been a fixture in multiple series she's written and I am glad he finally got his happily ever after.
Milena and TJ were wonderful additions to the Texas Heroes family and this has me pumped for Sadie's story (and crossover with out Delta boys).
I am running out of Susan Stoker books to read!
December 10, 2021
Edge of your seat action in this well written storyline. TJ finds Milena again after some years but he now has to keep her safe from an evil man who wants her for his own. Can TJ overcome their past issues and be the man Milena knows he can be? Will Milena forgive TJ from running away when she needed him the most? Such angst and danger will keep your interest from the very first page.
March 14, 2018
Once again Susan Stoker has incorporated a difficult subject into a spellbinding book.
TJ left Milena so he wouldn't bring her down. He needed to figure out his life and getting angry at her for his problems would do just that. He totally went about leaving the wrong way, but he left.
Milena was heartbroken when he left without an explanation, just disappeared in the night.
Milena has moved back home and one of her jobs was caring for unwed pregnant girls at Bexar County School and Orphanage for Girls. No one was more surprised than she when the FBI stormed the place. She had no idea of the horrors that occurred within those buildings.
TJ had been watching and reporting activities because of a request by a friend. He even watched her interrogation, knowing she held no knowledge of anything other than her responsibilities.
Filled with emotion and revelations, this book kept me at the edge of my seat. More than once I was holding my breath, but there were laughs, and some sizzle as TJ and Milena find the romance again.
If I had to select one word to describe this book it would have to be Powerful.
March 19, 2018
Awesome
Another great story-I love a second chance romance, especially when the man discovers he’s a daddy. The little boy made the story, so cute to watch TJ take care of JT, and who doesn’t love a alpha male determined to protect his family from danger.
Another great story-I love a second chance romance, especially when the man discovers he’s a daddy. The little boy made the story, so cute to watch TJ take care of JT, and who doesn’t love a alpha male determined to protect his family from danger.
October 15, 2022
TJ is ex army guy with demons. He and Milena were together before pushing her away..
3 yrs later they encounter each other again and she has a surprise for him! Oh, they have a crazy guy after her also btw! Great book!! 👍
3 yrs later they encounter each other again and she has a surprise for him! Oh, they have a crazy guy after her also btw! Great book!! 👍
April 13, 2021
I really liked Milena’s and TJ’s love story, with how they met, loved, parted, and found each other again. The depth of the depravity of the bad guys in this book certainly blunted my enjoyment of the book overall, though. And there were other parts, like when the bad guy had been spotted, where it made no sense that the area wasn’t turned upside down and covered by FBI. Also, what if Blythe had called Squirrel and told him the issue, then the FBI was ready and set up to nab the perp? Maybe I’m overthinking this and should just roll with the mind candy. This did make me want to re-read Sadie’s book, but looking at my review of that one, it seems like a low for Stoker, so I won’t. I enjoyed this ebook. 4/5
December 31, 2022
We have a second chances romance with this Susan Stoker book, but it's also pretty serious as it involves a sex trafficking cult. It's not exactly a light read. TJ and Milena's relationship was quite rocky for a while as he really screwed up with her and left her with quite a mess. The story was good, but I just couldn't get into it like I do with the author's other stories. I couldn't connect with either character. They both seemed rather...blah. The suspense aspects of the book were very well done and exceptional page turners, but the romance parts and character connections were bland.
Milena Reinhard and TJ "Rock" Rockwell used to date when they met at a rehab center for wounded vets. After a brief but passionate time, TJ allowed his guilt and shame from his last days of the Army to drive him away from the best thing in his life. Now a respected Highway Patrolman, he thinks about her constantly. Milena does too but for a completely different reason...and they aren't good thoughts. When TJ is called in to help break up a pedophile ring masking as a orphanage Milena and her friend are unknowingly working at, they are pushed together again. But will they be able to rekindle their love when TJ has to take time off work to watch over her from two mad men? Will TJ ever be able to make up for the biggest oof of his life?
This was definitely a suspenseful second change romance. That was the book's biggest strength. I was annoyed with the whole "TJ/JT" thing. Oh my gosh. It was making my brain scrambled and my eyes bleed. It was a cute thought, but in practice, it didn't work. I still recommend the book, especially if you are going through the series. A lot goes on in it, and its still very enjoyable and is quite suspenseful.
Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes Series
-Review of Justice for Mackenzie (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #1)
-Review of Justice for Mickie (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #2)
-Review of Justice for Corrie (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #3)
-Review of Justice for Laine (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #4)
-Review of Shelter for Elizabeth (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #5)
-Review of Justice for Boone (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #6)
-Review of Shelter for Adeline (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #7)
-Review of Shelter for Sophie (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #8)
-Review of Justice for Erin (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #9)
-Review of Justice for Milena (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #10)
-Review of Shelter for Blythe (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #11)
-Review of Justice for Hope (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #12)
-Review of Shelter for Quinn (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #13)
-Review of Shelter for Koren (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #14)
-Review of Shelter for Penelope (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #15)
Milena Reinhard and TJ "Rock" Rockwell used to date when they met at a rehab center for wounded vets. After a brief but passionate time, TJ allowed his guilt and shame from his last days of the Army to drive him away from the best thing in his life. Now a respected Highway Patrolman, he thinks about her constantly. Milena does too but for a completely different reason...and they aren't good thoughts. When TJ is called in to help break up a pedophile ring masking as a orphanage Milena and her friend are unknowingly working at, they are pushed together again. But will they be able to rekindle their love when TJ has to take time off work to watch over her from two mad men? Will TJ ever be able to make up for the biggest oof of his life?
This was definitely a suspenseful second change romance. That was the book's biggest strength. I was annoyed with the whole "TJ/JT" thing. Oh my gosh. It was making my brain scrambled and my eyes bleed. It was a cute thought, but in practice, it didn't work. I still recommend the book, especially if you are going through the series. A lot goes on in it, and its still very enjoyable and is quite suspenseful.
Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes Series
-Review of Justice for Mackenzie (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #1)
-Review of Justice for Mickie (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #2)
-Review of Justice for Corrie (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #3)
-Review of Justice for Laine (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #4)
-Review of Shelter for Elizabeth (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #5)
-Review of Justice for Boone (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #6)
-Review of Shelter for Adeline (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #7)
-Review of Shelter for Sophie (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #8)
-Review of Justice for Erin (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #9)
-Review of Justice for Milena (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #10)
-Review of Shelter for Blythe (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #11)
-Review of Justice for Hope (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #12)
-Review of Shelter for Quinn (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #13)
-Review of Shelter for Koren (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #14)
-Review of Shelter for Penelope (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #15)
March 18, 2018
5 Suspense Filled, Thrilling Stars!!!
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
When Milena and TJ cross paths after years apart, TJ ceases the chance to make amends for the one decision that ripped their lives apart. Can Milena learn to trust TJ again? Or will she allow doubt to shadow her decisions putting her life at risk?
Susan Stoker headed to the darker side in this latest addition to the Texas Heroes series. However, she has gone dark in a subtle and intriguing manner. Susan describes the events and the crime in question, with a technique that gives us the reader enough detail to understand what kind of crime, and to what extent the crime has been committed, without leading the reader into a territory that may for some, be too hard to read. With the consideration, and finesse, in which Susan Stoker has written this story, I feel, those who may relate, in some way, to the subject in question, hopefully, will not be triggered by this story.
TJ melted my heart; he saw the mistakes he had made and had spent the years apart from Milena making up for them and turning his life around. He was caring, loyal, determined and would go above and beyond for those he loved and cared about.
Milena, wow, what a strong woman. I could relate to some of the things she had gone through in her time apart from TJ; she has my empathy. I loved that she wasn’t vindictive, it was clear her heart was still very much in love with TJ, and although cautious, deep down she knew she could trust TJ to protect her and those around her.
I devoured this story and loved every page. This book can be read as a standalone, however, to fully enjoy this story, I recommend reading this series in order, starting with Justice for Mackenzie.
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
When Milena and TJ cross paths after years apart, TJ ceases the chance to make amends for the one decision that ripped their lives apart. Can Milena learn to trust TJ again? Or will she allow doubt to shadow her decisions putting her life at risk?
Susan Stoker headed to the darker side in this latest addition to the Texas Heroes series. However, she has gone dark in a subtle and intriguing manner. Susan describes the events and the crime in question, with a technique that gives us the reader enough detail to understand what kind of crime, and to what extent the crime has been committed, without leading the reader into a territory that may for some, be too hard to read. With the consideration, and finesse, in which Susan Stoker has written this story, I feel, those who may relate, in some way, to the subject in question, hopefully, will not be triggered by this story.
TJ melted my heart; he saw the mistakes he had made and had spent the years apart from Milena making up for them and turning his life around. He was caring, loyal, determined and would go above and beyond for those he loved and cared about.
Milena, wow, what a strong woman. I could relate to some of the things she had gone through in her time apart from TJ; she has my empathy. I loved that she wasn’t vindictive, it was clear her heart was still very much in love with TJ, and although cautious, deep down she knew she could trust TJ to protect her and those around her.
I devoured this story and loved every page. This book can be read as a standalone, however, to fully enjoy this story, I recommend reading this series in order, starting with Justice for Mackenzie.
April 22, 2018
5 Heartwarming and Heart Pounding Stars
Finally we get the story of TJ. We of course have met him through other books and know he is a current patrolman and retired sniper. Through the story of he and Milena though, we discover the many he was, the man he is underneath it all, and the man you can see he will be.
Milena and TJ have such an intense history that you feel it all in your own heart. Milena has been hurt by TJ and as much as she wants desperately to trust he is a changed man she knows she needs to protect herself and her heart. TJ was the one to leave but has known for 3 years there was no woman in the world he would ever love like Milena. When they are brought together by an incident incolcing a very twisted man and his son, this couple must face their past, their secrets and their feelings head on, all while keeping Milena, her family and best friend Sadie safe.
Yes folks, I said Sadie! Susan Stoker has done a phenomenal job of giving us a solid starting point to both Sadie’s book coming soon and Blythe’s book coming up next in this series. I refuse to give away any of the great suspense, foreshadowing or “feels” so you are going to get yourself a copy of Justice For Milena and see for yourself how absolutely adorable and sexy this couple is!
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Finally we get the story of TJ. We of course have met him through other books and know he is a current patrolman and retired sniper. Through the story of he and Milena though, we discover the many he was, the man he is underneath it all, and the man you can see he will be.
Milena and TJ have such an intense history that you feel it all in your own heart. Milena has been hurt by TJ and as much as she wants desperately to trust he is a changed man she knows she needs to protect herself and her heart. TJ was the one to leave but has known for 3 years there was no woman in the world he would ever love like Milena. When they are brought together by an incident incolcing a very twisted man and his son, this couple must face their past, their secrets and their feelings head on, all while keeping Milena, her family and best friend Sadie safe.
Yes folks, I said Sadie! Susan Stoker has done a phenomenal job of giving us a solid starting point to both Sadie’s book coming soon and Blythe’s book coming up next in this series. I refuse to give away any of the great suspense, foreshadowing or “feels” so you are going to get yourself a copy of Justice For Milena and see for yourself how absolutely adorable and sexy this couple is!
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
January 7, 2022
While I enjoyed Milena and TJ and seeing TJ redeem himself with her, what I was actually more interested in was Sadie's story.
I started this whole thing when I did to be ready to read Sadie's story and go through Lexi's series. But when I realized I'd have to do a bit of reading for Susan's books to understand what was going on I started with the Delta Force series not realizing that this was the actual book I needed to understand Sadie. So here I am wanting more of Sadie in Milena's book. And that holds really true. The set up for Sadie being there is still vague. I would have liked some info on Lexi's side. I REALLY want more about Chase and Sadie and how he seams to know her before all of the things went down. They seam to have met before. I still feel really lost going into that book and I know already I'm not going to get the backstory I want and need.
As for TJ and Milena, I enjoyed them
As for the villain, wow, I've read some dark stuff and this does not take you all the way down into the seeing of it but there is enough telling for you to know it is bad/ugly.
I did like the cameos of Blythe. I'm really curious about her story.
I started this whole thing when I did to be ready to read Sadie's story and go through Lexi's series. But when I realized I'd have to do a bit of reading for Susan's books to understand what was going on I started with the Delta Force series not realizing that this was the actual book I needed to understand Sadie. So here I am wanting more of Sadie in Milena's book. And that holds really true. The set up for Sadie being there is still vague. I would have liked some info on Lexi's side. I REALLY want more about Chase and Sadie and how he seams to know her before all of the things went down. They seam to have met before. I still feel really lost going into that book and I know already I'm not going to get the backstory I want and need.
As for TJ and Milena, I enjoyed them
As for the villain, wow, I've read some dark stuff and this does not take you all the way down into the seeing of it but there is enough telling for you to know it is bad/ugly.
I did like the cameos of Blythe. I'm really curious about her story.
June 5, 2025
TJ Rockwell made a mistake when he walked away from Milena Reinhardt three years ago and has regretted it everyday since. Given a chance to atone from an unexpected source, TJ jumps at the chance. If nothing else he can at least apologize but he's hoping in his heart of hearts to win her back. Milena was completely broken when TJ left her. It was her darkest hour. While she's never stopped loving him the chances for any type of reconciliation are nil except she does have a secret that will impact both of their lives. Love and happiness do win out in the end but not before some perilous moments courtesy of Jonses who are bent on revenge.
September 4, 2023
Married to an Army guy so TJ caught my attention at the start of the series. I loved his interaction with Daxton when TJ pulled Mackenzie over for speeding. Anyway, I found the story a bit far fetched but it was entertaining. I don't think JT had to be brought into the situation though as there was enough drama to spare. I really liked Milena and SS successfully made me sympathetic to her.
March 25, 2018
It was a nice plot but the story was spoiled because of the leads for the next books in the series. It felt like this book is written just for the sake of promotion of the upcoming books. It would have been better if there was more focus on the lead characters.
March 12, 2018
3.75 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 13, 2018
It had been years since Milena Reinhart had seen TJ “Rock” Rockwell. He’d torn her heart out of her chest and she still hadn’t completely recovered.
TJ left his sniper days behind him for good when he’d left the Army and become a respected Texas Highway Patrolman. But he never forgot the girl he’d loved and stupidly given up.
Neither thought they’d ever see each other again. But when a pedophile’s operation is taken down and he sets his sights on Milena, TJ gets a second chance. They both have secrets that could end any relationship they might have before it even starts. But when the bad guy threatens the one thing that means the world to the couple, they’ll have to trust in each other to triumph over evil.
** Justice for Milena is the 10th book in the Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliff hanger endings.
•••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars--JUSTICE FOR MILENA is the eleventh instalment in Susan Stoker’s contemporary, adult BADGE OF HONOR: TEXAS HEROES romantic, suspense series. This is former US Delta Force sniper, and Texas Highway Patrolman TJ ‘Rock’ Rockwell, and registered nurse Milena Reinhart’s story line. JUSTICE FOR MILENA can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from several third person perspectives including TJ and Milena JUSTICE FOR MILENA is a second chance story line focusing on former US Delta Force sniper, and Texas Highway Patrolman TJ ‘Rock’ Rockwell, and registered nurse Milena Reinhart. Three years earlier TJ Rockwell struggled to move on from the disastrous mission in the Middle East that killed his entire team and left our hero suffering with survivor’s guilt and PTSD. The only light in his otherwise darkened days was his nurse Milena Reinhart, the woman with whom he fell in love but the woman he was about to destroy in the blink of an eye. Walking away, and out of Milena’s life, TJ battled the demons of his past, in the hopes of stabilizing the nightmares that threatened to control his life. Fast forward to present day, and a healthier TJ Rockwell will come face to face with his past, a past that was about to rock his world. With Milena and her friend Sadie unknowingly working for two men who are under investigation by the FBI, TJ demands protective duty to care of the woman he has never stopped loving. What ensues are the rekindling romance between TJ and Milena, and the fall-out when Milena and Sadie are targeted in a sick and demented game of retaliation and revenge.
Milena is a strong-willed, feisty survivor who has moved on from the past but a past with too many reminders to never forget. TJ continues to battle with PTSD but finding the woman he lost brings new meaning to second chances, and a welcome surprise towards a possible happily ever after.
The relationship between Milena and TJ is one of second chances; a slow-building, rekindling romance that focuses on TJ’s need to make amends for the past, and his desire to move forward towards a happily ever after. The $ex scenes are passionate but limited.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Milena’s best friend Sadie; a homeless young woman Blythe; and several characters we had me in previous story lines (Chase, Quint, Calder, Dax, Cruz, Squirrel, Mackenzie, Mickie, Erin, Hayden and Sophie). We are introduced to Milena’s parents Robert and Missy Reinhart; as well as the requisite evil, father and son Jeremiah and Jonathan Jones. Chase Jackson and Sadie Jenning’s story is next in Rescuing Sadie- a cross over with the author’s Delta Force Heroes, and Lexi Blake’s Master and Mercenaries Series. Blythe and Squirrel’s story line is scheduled for June 2018.
JUSTICE FOR MILENA is an emotional story line; a heart breaking look at two people whose lives were destroyed by demons from the past, and one man’s hopes for future with the woman that he loves. The premise is engaging, intriguing and entertaining; the characters are colorful, dynamic and sassy; the romance is seductive and sexy. JUSTICE FOR MILENA
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 13, 2018
It had been years since Milena Reinhart had seen TJ “Rock” Rockwell. He’d torn her heart out of her chest and she still hadn’t completely recovered.
TJ left his sniper days behind him for good when he’d left the Army and become a respected Texas Highway Patrolman. But he never forgot the girl he’d loved and stupidly given up.
Neither thought they’d ever see each other again. But when a pedophile’s operation is taken down and he sets his sights on Milena, TJ gets a second chance. They both have secrets that could end any relationship they might have before it even starts. But when the bad guy threatens the one thing that means the world to the couple, they’ll have to trust in each other to triumph over evil.
** Justice for Milena is the 10th book in the Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliff hanger endings.
•••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars--JUSTICE FOR MILENA is the eleventh instalment in Susan Stoker’s contemporary, adult BADGE OF HONOR: TEXAS HEROES romantic, suspense series. This is former US Delta Force sniper, and Texas Highway Patrolman TJ ‘Rock’ Rockwell, and registered nurse Milena Reinhart’s story line. JUSTICE FOR MILENA can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from several third person perspectives including TJ and Milena JUSTICE FOR MILENA is a second chance story line focusing on former US Delta Force sniper, and Texas Highway Patrolman TJ ‘Rock’ Rockwell, and registered nurse Milena Reinhart. Three years earlier TJ Rockwell struggled to move on from the disastrous mission in the Middle East that killed his entire team and left our hero suffering with survivor’s guilt and PTSD. The only light in his otherwise darkened days was his nurse Milena Reinhart, the woman with whom he fell in love but the woman he was about to destroy in the blink of an eye. Walking away, and out of Milena’s life, TJ battled the demons of his past, in the hopes of stabilizing the nightmares that threatened to control his life. Fast forward to present day, and a healthier TJ Rockwell will come face to face with his past, a past that was about to rock his world. With Milena and her friend Sadie unknowingly working for two men who are under investigation by the FBI, TJ demands protective duty to care of the woman he has never stopped loving. What ensues are the rekindling romance between TJ and Milena, and the fall-out when Milena and Sadie are targeted in a sick and demented game of retaliation and revenge.
Milena is a strong-willed, feisty survivor who has moved on from the past but a past with too many reminders to never forget. TJ continues to battle with PTSD but finding the woman he lost brings new meaning to second chances, and a welcome surprise towards a possible happily ever after.
The relationship between Milena and TJ is one of second chances; a slow-building, rekindling romance that focuses on TJ’s need to make amends for the past, and his desire to move forward towards a happily ever after. The $ex scenes are passionate but limited.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Milena’s best friend Sadie; a homeless young woman Blythe; and several characters we had me in previous story lines (Chase, Quint, Calder, Dax, Cruz, Squirrel, Mackenzie, Mickie, Erin, Hayden and Sophie). We are introduced to Milena’s parents Robert and Missy Reinhart; as well as the requisite evil, father and son Jeremiah and Jonathan Jones. Chase Jackson and Sadie Jenning’s story is next in Rescuing Sadie- a cross over with the author’s Delta Force Heroes, and Lexi Blake’s Master and Mercenaries Series. Blythe and Squirrel’s story line is scheduled for June 2018.
JUSTICE FOR MILENA is an emotional story line; a heart breaking look at two people whose lives were destroyed by demons from the past, and one man’s hopes for future with the woman that he loves. The premise is engaging, intriguing and entertaining; the characters are colorful, dynamic and sassy; the romance is seductive and sexy. JUSTICE FOR MILENA
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
August 1, 2018
When the love of your life walks out it's hard to know where to go from there. With a shattered heart but so full of love for an unexpected gift left behind, Milena makes a success of her life with the support of friends and family. But when she's in danger it's the man she thought she could move on without that comes to her aid. TJ regrets every day that he left the woman that had a home in his soul. Yet his demons wouldn't let him stay and be happy. Though he's tried to make a life without her there's not one part of him -- mind, body, heart, or soul -- that can move on without her. And when he gets a chance to be a part of her forever he's going to use every method, connection, and honest confession he can to make his part permanent. Nothing and no one will get in his way, not even a sadistic pair of men bent on eliminating Milena.
LOVE the celibate hero. FINALLY! I've honestly been hoping there was a sexy hero out there that doesn't become a manwhore after a breakup. So Alpha -- at every turn. But, and this is the best, he didn't "imprison" Milena because of his fierce need to protect. His interactions with JT were so very sweet. To see his heart find completeness, all the love he could ever want, deserve, hope for, dream of...I'm not sure it's possible not to love this man.
And for his partner I couldn't wish for a better woman in Milena. Now, when they meet again after years, Milena's gut reaction was not awesome. Yes, it was understandable, but it wasn't very nice. I mean, we get a lot of pain, a sense of abandonment, some resentment, but a lot of what we read before their meeting was more of her love and tenderness toward the broken man that left her. And then, after all the expressions of love and keeping his memory present, for her to explode with vitriol at their first interaction I was completely floored. I could guess that there would be a bunch of banked anger in and amongst all her feelings for the man but for that one to take center stage was shocking and slightly disappointing. That being said, she's strong, independent, but not mule-headed. Her trust in the man who shattered his heart is staggering and as she allows him to put those pieces back together more securely than if it had never broken in the first place, she finds her own happiness, one that she could never have imagined before.
The antagonists were truly sick and I now this is completely un-PC to even think this, but I was glad for TJ's brand of justice. I'm not going to get into politics here in a book review, but with a rotten, festering soul that does what these men did and have all the money and political connections they had, knowing that the legal process wouldn't bring justice on them, a different kind of justice needed to be carried out. So in this fictional story with fictional men doing drastic things to bring about justice for the innocents in the fictional story, I'm 100% behind TJ's actions. In real life situations like this may occur and my feelings might be more complicated regarding the resolution, but for the purposes of this particular story, I agreed with how the conflict was settled.
Drama, incredible feels, intense passion, regret, forgiveness...there is so much to love about this story. I've wanted to get TJ's story for so long and he has lived up to every one of my heart's hopes for him and his own happily ever after. And now for Sadie's story...without Sadie at Milena's side over the years things might have gone very differently. But that teaser at the end with Sadie getting an earful of Chase's intentions?!?!?!?! Holy Eff. I'm tingling right now. Must. Read. Soon!
ARC very willingly read and reviewed.
LOVE the celibate hero. FINALLY! I've honestly been hoping there was a sexy hero out there that doesn't become a manwhore after a breakup. So Alpha -- at every turn. But, and this is the best, he didn't "imprison" Milena because of his fierce need to protect. His interactions with JT were so very sweet. To see his heart find completeness, all the love he could ever want, deserve, hope for, dream of...I'm not sure it's possible not to love this man.
And for his partner I couldn't wish for a better woman in Milena. Now, when they meet again after years, Milena's gut reaction was not awesome. Yes, it was understandable, but it wasn't very nice. I mean, we get a lot of pain, a sense of abandonment, some resentment, but a lot of what we read before their meeting was more of her love and tenderness toward the broken man that left her. And then, after all the expressions of love and keeping his memory present, for her to explode with vitriol at their first interaction I was completely floored. I could guess that there would be a bunch of banked anger in and amongst all her feelings for the man but for that one to take center stage was shocking and slightly disappointing. That being said, she's strong, independent, but not mule-headed. Her trust in the man who shattered his heart is staggering and as she allows him to put those pieces back together more securely than if it had never broken in the first place, she finds her own happiness, one that she could never have imagined before.
The antagonists were truly sick and I now this is completely un-PC to even think this, but I was glad for TJ's brand of justice. I'm not going to get into politics here in a book review, but with a rotten, festering soul that does what these men did and have all the money and political connections they had, knowing that the legal process wouldn't bring justice on them, a different kind of justice needed to be carried out. So in this fictional story with fictional men doing drastic things to bring about justice for the innocents in the fictional story, I'm 100% behind TJ's actions. In real life situations like this may occur and my feelings might be more complicated regarding the resolution, but for the purposes of this particular story, I agreed with how the conflict was settled.
Drama, incredible feels, intense passion, regret, forgiveness...there is so much to love about this story. I've wanted to get TJ's story for so long and he has lived up to every one of my heart's hopes for him and his own happily ever after. And now for Sadie's story...without Sadie at Milena's side over the years things might have gone very differently. But that teaser at the end with Sadie getting an earful of Chase's intentions?!?!?!?! Holy Eff. I'm tingling right now. Must. Read. Soon!
ARC very willingly read and reviewed.
March 24, 2024
<><>
Story Overview
<><>
The book blurb explains it well.
<><> Characters <><>
Hero: TJ Rockwell; Age: 31; Occupation: officer with the Texas highway patrol
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: Army veteran, was a sniper in a top-secret Delta Force team, has seen his share of death and destruction, has PTSD, has remorse and regret for ever leaving Milena in the first place, alpha, dedicated, has survivors guilt, respected
Heroine: Milena Reinhardt ; Age: 27: Occupation: nurse, works at a women’s clinic and at the Bexar County School and Orphanage for Girls
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: lives with her parents, was suspicious about what was going on at the orphanage but had no proof of anything wrong, her friend Sadie also lives with her/her parents, helps with the pregnant teens at the orphanage, has a big heart, always willing to help others, genuinely nice
<><> A Few Thoughts <><>
^^ ~ the first chapter explained how they met and the reasons why TJ left Melena three years ago. It was needed to understand the context of their relationship, so I’m glad the author included that short synopsis of their history.
^^ ~ TJ’s reasons for leaving three years ago were from a mental health place, not because anyone cheated. He was struggling coming to grips with his time in the military and all he had seen / done.
^^ ~ I always like a cute kid element in a story.
^^ ~ not sure why TJ always calls her “Doc” when she’s a nurse
^^ ~ I loved Sadie. She was a great friend to Milena and gave some really good advice and was able to speak some strong truths to Milena that she needed to hear. Plus she certainly understands the alpha male after being around the McKay-Taggart crew. I’m interested to read her story
<><> The Basics <><>
- Content Warning: pedophile - it’s not overly descriptive but certainly clear enough to fully understand the depths of depravity
- Setting: San Antonio, Texas
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: I think it would be helpful to read the series in order. There are characters from other books that make an appearance.
- POV: Dual POV
- Tropes: second chance (they met three years ago when TJ had gotten out of the Army)
- Hero likable? Yes
- heroine likable? Yes
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 40%
- First time they sleep together: 76%
- Safe sex? No condoms used - they had the safety talk first
- First time they say I Love You: TJ says it at 28%. Milena says it at 72%
- steamy? Yes. Descriptive bedroom scenes
- Chemistry? yes
- OW/OM drama? No
- H/h cheat? No And, neither one has been with anyone else since they parted three years ago
- Time apart? No
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? yes - TJ discovers the secret at 25%
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? I thought TJ had several swoony moments. The guy definitely knew how to admit he f’d up and would do anything to make it right. He admitted early on he was in love with Milena and was extremely upfront about his desires / intentions. He was manning up. He accepted the dreaded “you hurt my little girl again and I’ll kill you” speech from her dad with grace and humility. And, don’t even get me started on his swoony dad moments 🥰
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? a month later. Sets up Sadie and Chase’s story
- Recommend? Yes
The book blurb explains it well.
<><> Characters <><>
Hero: TJ Rockwell; Age: 31; Occupation: officer with the Texas highway patrol
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: Army veteran, was a sniper in a top-secret Delta Force team, has seen his share of death and destruction, has PTSD, has remorse and regret for ever leaving Milena in the first place, alpha, dedicated, has survivors guilt, respected
Heroine: Milena Reinhardt ; Age: 27: Occupation: nurse, works at a women’s clinic and at the Bexar County School and Orphanage for Girls
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: lives with her parents, was suspicious about what was going on at the orphanage but had no proof of anything wrong, her friend Sadie also lives with her/her parents, helps with the pregnant teens at the orphanage, has a big heart, always willing to help others, genuinely nice
<><> A Few Thoughts <><>
^^ ~ the first chapter explained how they met and the reasons why TJ left Melena three years ago. It was needed to understand the context of their relationship, so I’m glad the author included that short synopsis of their history.
^^ ~ TJ’s reasons for leaving three years ago were from a mental health place, not because anyone cheated. He was struggling coming to grips with his time in the military and all he had seen / done.
^^ ~ I always like a cute kid element in a story.
^^ ~ not sure why TJ always calls her “Doc” when she’s a nurse
^^ ~ I loved Sadie. She was a great friend to Milena and gave some really good advice and was able to speak some strong truths to Milena that she needed to hear. Plus she certainly understands the alpha male after being around the McKay-Taggart crew. I’m interested to read her story
<><> The Basics <><>
- Content Warning: pedophile - it’s not overly descriptive but certainly clear enough to fully understand the depths of depravity
- Setting: San Antonio, Texas
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: I think it would be helpful to read the series in order. There are characters from other books that make an appearance.
- POV: Dual POV
- Tropes: second chance (they met three years ago when TJ had gotten out of the Army)
- Hero likable? Yes
- heroine likable? Yes
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 40%
- First time they sleep together: 76%
- Safe sex? No condoms used - they had the safety talk first
- First time they say I Love You: TJ says it at 28%. Milena says it at 72%
- steamy? Yes. Descriptive bedroom scenes
- Chemistry? yes
- OW/OM drama? No
- H/h cheat? No And, neither one has been with anyone else since they parted three years ago
- Time apart? No
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? yes - TJ discovers the secret at 25%
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? I thought TJ had several swoony moments. The guy definitely knew how to admit he f’d up and would do anything to make it right. He admitted early on he was in love with Milena and was extremely upfront about his desires / intentions. He was manning up. He accepted the dreaded “you hurt my little girl again and I’ll kill you” speech from her dad with grace and humility. And, don’t even get me started on his swoony dad moments 🥰
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? a month later. Sets up Sadie and Chase’s story
- Recommend? Yes
March 7, 2018
This is the perfect hero story that I love reading from Susan Stoker!
Thomas James “TJ” Rockwell is a broken man, discharged from the Army after terrorists left him the only one alive killing off the rest of his team. Unable to cope with the pain and loss once he is living stateside, TJ is a shell of the man he once was. His anger consumes him and he finds he is unable to enjoy the woman who has come to mean the world to him so after a tough decision he up and leaves in the middle of the night, no word, no trace that he even existed in her life. TJ walks out and leaves behind the one good thing in his life, Milena Reinhardt.
Three years went by and Milena Reinhardt never stopped loving TJ Rockwell. It didn’t mean she would open up her arms and allow him to jump right back in where things left off. Hell no. TJ broke her heart when he walked out in the dead of night without a word. Just because you love someone doesn’t give them the right to walk back in and trample your heart all over again. She isn’t sure she could survive it twice.
TJ doesn’t make is easy for Milena to say no. He regretted walking out every day for the past three years. He plans to make it up to her every day for the rest of his life, but first he has a duty to protect her from a sick pervert that is on the loose. Once the man is caught then TJ can move forward with their future because he doesn’t plan on having one without Milena in it.
Justice for Milena has every element that makes a good hero romance. A broken, repentant man who puts his woman first without being an over the top dominant jerk. And the heroine is strong, but also smart enough to lean on the hero so she isn’t cocky. TJ and Milena are the perfect combination together and I was rooting for them the entire way.
Justice for Milena is also a lead in to Stoker’s next novel Rescuing Sadie which I know is nothing new in the writing world, but I’m super excited because this book ties two author’s worlds together; Masters and Mercenaries by Lexi Blake and Delta Force Heroes by Susan Stoker. I am a fan of both worlds, I loved this book, so I’m super pumped to continue reading what Stoker brings to the table next.
Without giving too much away you will definitely want to read Justice for Milena before reading Rescuing Sadie. Sadie is interwoven into this story quite a bit. You get to hear her take on her uncles, Ian and Sean (for Masters and Merc fans that was a complete treat). I’ve enjoyed reading Sadie in Blake’s novels, she’s a pistol and gives any man a run for his money and Stoker has picked up right where Blake has left off. Rescuing Sadie will be a continuation of Sadie’s involvement from this story, although if I know Stoker and her writing, she will make it a standalone and easy to jump into.
Thomas James “TJ” Rockwell is a broken man, discharged from the Army after terrorists left him the only one alive killing off the rest of his team. Unable to cope with the pain and loss once he is living stateside, TJ is a shell of the man he once was. His anger consumes him and he finds he is unable to enjoy the woman who has come to mean the world to him so after a tough decision he up and leaves in the middle of the night, no word, no trace that he even existed in her life. TJ walks out and leaves behind the one good thing in his life, Milena Reinhardt.
Three years went by and Milena Reinhardt never stopped loving TJ Rockwell. It didn’t mean she would open up her arms and allow him to jump right back in where things left off. Hell no. TJ broke her heart when he walked out in the dead of night without a word. Just because you love someone doesn’t give them the right to walk back in and trample your heart all over again. She isn’t sure she could survive it twice.
TJ doesn’t make is easy for Milena to say no. He regretted walking out every day for the past three years. He plans to make it up to her every day for the rest of his life, but first he has a duty to protect her from a sick pervert that is on the loose. Once the man is caught then TJ can move forward with their future because he doesn’t plan on having one without Milena in it.
Justice for Milena has every element that makes a good hero romance. A broken, repentant man who puts his woman first without being an over the top dominant jerk. And the heroine is strong, but also smart enough to lean on the hero so she isn’t cocky. TJ and Milena are the perfect combination together and I was rooting for them the entire way.
Justice for Milena is also a lead in to Stoker’s next novel Rescuing Sadie which I know is nothing new in the writing world, but I’m super excited because this book ties two author’s worlds together; Masters and Mercenaries by Lexi Blake and Delta Force Heroes by Susan Stoker. I am a fan of both worlds, I loved this book, so I’m super pumped to continue reading what Stoker brings to the table next.
Without giving too much away you will definitely want to read Justice for Milena before reading Rescuing Sadie. Sadie is interwoven into this story quite a bit. You get to hear her take on her uncles, Ian and Sean (for Masters and Merc fans that was a complete treat). I’ve enjoyed reading Sadie in Blake’s novels, she’s a pistol and gives any man a run for his money and Stoker has picked up right where Blake has left off. Rescuing Sadie will be a continuation of Sadie’s involvement from this story, although if I know Stoker and her writing, she will make it a standalone and easy to jump into.
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