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Mountain Mercenaries #3
Defending Morgan
Protection leads to passion in New York Times bestselling author Susan Stoker’s dangerously hot Mountain Mercenaries adventure.
Dispatched to the Dominican Republic to rescue a kidnapped child, former Navy SEAL Archer “Arrow” Kane makes a startling discovery: another hostage—Morgan Byrd, a very beautiful and very well-known missing person who disappeared off the streets of Atlanta a year ago. She’s brave, resilient, and unbroken. All Arrow wants to know is why she ended up in a shack in Santo Domingo. All he feels is the desire to protect.
Morgan is done being the victim and is determined to find out who hates her so much that they want her gone—but not dead. Until then, she has Arrow, an alpha stranger who’s offering a warm and safe place to hide. But as the passion between them flares, so does the fear that whoever took Morgan will do anything to get her back. For Arrow, protecting this woman with a mysterious enemy is the most dangerous mission of his life. And it’s worth every beat of his heart.
Dispatched to the Dominican Republic to rescue a kidnapped child, former Navy SEAL Archer “Arrow” Kane makes a startling discovery: another hostage—Morgan Byrd, a very beautiful and very well-known missing person who disappeared off the streets of Atlanta a year ago. She’s brave, resilient, and unbroken. All Arrow wants to know is why she ended up in a shack in Santo Domingo. All he feels is the desire to protect.
Morgan is done being the victim and is determined to find out who hates her so much that they want her gone—but not dead. Until then, she has Arrow, an alpha stranger who’s offering a warm and safe place to hide. But as the passion between them flares, so does the fear that whoever took Morgan will do anything to get her back. For Arrow, protecting this woman with a mysterious enemy is the most dangerous mission of his life. And it’s worth every beat of his heart.
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2019
3419 people are currently reading
3096 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 667 reviews
March 6, 2019
★ 4 STARS ★
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March 7, 2019
So good! This series is my favorite from this author so far. The Mountain Mercenaries is a team made up of former military of different branches that focus solely on saving women and children. Each book has a new mission and the content has some pretty heavy stuff. These women and children are being saved from something truly horrible, and then to find love in the process is a beautiful thing to read.
The heroines are strong women who have overcome some very serious situations. The heroes are tough, protective and take very good care of the women in their lives. The evil villains in each book will have you seeing red and having you rooting for the mercenaries to take them out. I love all these guys and can't wait for the rest of the series. It looks like Black is up next.
The heroines are strong women who have overcome some very serious situations. The heroes are tough, protective and take very good care of the women in their lives. The evil villains in each book will have you seeing red and having you rooting for the mercenaries to take them out. I love all these guys and can't wait for the rest of the series. It looks like Black is up next.
July 16, 2019
DEFENDING MORGAN by Susan Stoker. To say I loved this book is a bit of an understatement. Morgan and Arrow are one of the best couples I've read about - they just clicked. Arrow rescues Morgan and helps her get back on her feet. Morgan struggles to return to her normal, all the while danger lurks. I liked Morgan, despite being traumatized, she is still strong yet recognizes when she might need some help. Arrow is strong and sexy and so patient and understanding when it comes to Morgan that my heart melted. As for the story. it is one of adventure, danger and mystery - my cup of tea. Ms. Stoker keeps the reader on their toes while trying to figure out who the bad guy is. If you haven't had a chance to read any books from this series, Mountain Mercenaries, I highly recommend, not just this one, but all in the series. (Note - can be read as a standalone)
June 3, 2019
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
DEFENDING MORGAN (Mountain Mercenaries Book 3) by Susan Stoker is another exciting romantic suspense addition to the Mountain Mercenaries series. All of these books can be read as standalones, but there is character crossover with each book adding another HEA to the group of friends.
Ex-Navy SEAL Archer “Arrow” Kane is part of a team sent by Rex, the leader of the Mountain Mercenaries to the Dominican Republic to rescue a kidnapped child. The team is surprised when they find the child, they also find an American woman who has been missing from Atlanta for over a year.
Morgan Byrd was abducted and disappeared while out with friends. Her father kept her story in the news and never gave up hope of finding her. Arrow recognizes her and has an instant need to protect this strong and brave woman. He wants to know how and why she ended up in Santa Domingo and so does Morgan.
Arrow offers Morgan a safe place to stay until the Mountain Mercenaries can find out who wanted Morgan gone, but not dead.
This book is not what I was expecting, although I should have. While Morgan was abducted, she was sexually abused and tortured. The descriptions are not graphic and mainly handled behind a psychologist’s closed door, but as you can imagine there is a very slow build up to any type of intimacy. I cheered every step forward Morgan made. Arrow is amazing in his respect and patience. The talks the couple shared displayed their intimacy. Their relationship builds at a realistic pace with the inclusion of professional help. I was shocked at the end when the villain of this story was revealed and I had a hard time accepting it. It was a surprise that left me unsatisfied.
I still find this series to be entertaining and I love watching each mercenary meet his perfect match. These books all have strong, alpha male heroes and heroines who have been through terrible circumstances, but remain resilient and loving. I am looking forward to reading many more HEAs in this series!
Thanks very much to Net Galley and Montlake Romance for allowing me to read this ARC.
DEFENDING MORGAN (Mountain Mercenaries Book 3) by Susan Stoker is another exciting romantic suspense addition to the Mountain Mercenaries series. All of these books can be read as standalones, but there is character crossover with each book adding another HEA to the group of friends.
Ex-Navy SEAL Archer “Arrow” Kane is part of a team sent by Rex, the leader of the Mountain Mercenaries to the Dominican Republic to rescue a kidnapped child. The team is surprised when they find the child, they also find an American woman who has been missing from Atlanta for over a year.
Morgan Byrd was abducted and disappeared while out with friends. Her father kept her story in the news and never gave up hope of finding her. Arrow recognizes her and has an instant need to protect this strong and brave woman. He wants to know how and why she ended up in Santa Domingo and so does Morgan.
Arrow offers Morgan a safe place to stay until the Mountain Mercenaries can find out who wanted Morgan gone, but not dead.
This book is not what I was expecting, although I should have. While Morgan was abducted, she was sexually abused and tortured. The descriptions are not graphic and mainly handled behind a psychologist’s closed door, but as you can imagine there is a very slow build up to any type of intimacy. I cheered every step forward Morgan made. Arrow is amazing in his respect and patience. The talks the couple shared displayed their intimacy. Their relationship builds at a realistic pace with the inclusion of professional help. I was shocked at the end when the villain of this story was revealed and I had a hard time accepting it. It was a surprise that left me unsatisfied.
I still find this series to be entertaining and I love watching each mercenary meet his perfect match. These books all have strong, alpha male heroes and heroines who have been through terrible circumstances, but remain resilient and loving. I am looking forward to reading many more HEAs in this series!
Thanks very much to Net Galley and Montlake Romance for allowing me to read this ARC.
May 30, 2019
I've given this a D+ at AAR.
Susan Stoker is a popular and prolific author of romantic suspense novels and has written several long-running series in the genre. I recently listened to an audiobook (Rescuing Mary (Delta Force Heroes) #9) of one of her titles, and wasn’t wowed by it; I’d failed to realise it was the last book (of nine) in a series, but I wasn’t lost so much as I’d clearly missed out on some important details regarding the central couple, whose relationship had been building since book one. So I thought I’d give the author another try, and picked up Defending Morgan when it came up for review. I knew it was part of a series – it’s book three of Mountain Mercenaries – but the series factor wasn’t the cause of the problems I had with it. I was able to follow the story and action, but it’s slow, there isn’t enough plot to fill a full-length novel, the characters are bland, the romance is limp and much of the dialogue is wordy, repetitive, and unrealistic.
The story opens in media res as a three man team comprised of Archer Kane (aka Arrow – geddit?), Black and Ball (yes, these guys might not be in the military any more, but they still have to have nicknames) effects the rescue of a little girl called Nina, who was kidnapped and removed from the US by her father. The men get a surprise when they discover Nina isn’t alone; a young woman Arrow recognises as Morgan Byrd – who has been missing for around a year – is with her. There’s no time to ask questions; the men get Morgan and Nina away, but decide it’ll be safer for them to split up and make their way to the safe house in two groups – Black and Ball will take Nina and Morgan will travel with Arrow.
After just a few pages, we’re told that Arrow feels some sort of deep connection to Morgan –
She was different from all the other women he’d saved over the years. It was as if he could sense her determination. He was proud of her… He also felt more protective towards this woman than anyone else he’d rescued.
The first third of the book deals with the rescue and Arrow and Morgan making their way to the safe house, but even though they have a couple of run-ins with her captors, it’s pretty stodgy going. It’s mostly Arrow going all ga-ga over Morgan and thinking about how amazing she is to have borne what she’s gone through and how much he wants to protect her, in similar vein to the passage I quoted above. The author makes it clear, very subtly, that Morgan was repeatedly raped, and it’s clear Arrow knows it, too, so I suppose it’s in his favour that he doesn’t start with the mental lusting; instead barely a page goes by without him thinking or telling her how incredible she is.
Once the group are back together, they manage to get Morgan – who has no passport or papers – out of the Dominican Republic and back into the US without any problem, and then set about working out who had her kidnapped and was paying to have her kept there indefinitely.
And that’s basically the plot. We get cameos by the heroes and heroines of the previous books, various scenes with the team of heroes-in-waiting, and a backstory for the mysterious Rex, who set up the Mountain Mercenaries (a group of former military guys who are sent in to rescue women and children in precarious circumstances around the world) after his wife disappeared. (I’m betting his will be the final book in the set.) But the plot is tissue-paper thin, and as in the first third, most of the rest of the book is devoted to Arrow telling Morgan how wonderful she is and saying stuff like this:
“I saw a woman who was scared out of her skull, but wasn’t afraid to stick up for a small child who needed her. I saw a woman who had been through hell, but somehow the goodness in her still shone from every pore… Even before I knew who you were, and what your story was, I knew you were special.”
“Just by your presence, you’ve made this apartment more of a home than it’s been since I moved in. You’ve filled it with your energy and goodness.”
Jeez. Pass the bucket.
Thankfully, therapy is part of Morgan’s recovery. She’s attracted to Arrow, but worried that she’ll never be able to have sex with him – a valid concern given what happened to her. But guess what? Arrow isn’t worried.
“My dick isn’t going to fall off if we don’t make love. We can get creative if you aren’t comfortable with penetration. And I can always masturbate.”
Wow. He always knows exactly the right thing to say, huh?
The search for the person behind Morgan’s kidnap goes pretty much nowhere until the villain reveals themselves and OMG, I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry at the sheer awfulness of their internal monologue.
After two books, I think I can say, categorically, that this author isn’t for me. There’s no romance, no suspense, page after page of sappy sentimentalism and I just can’t buy all these big, tough alpha guys giving each other relationship advice. Arrow pretty much never calls Morgan by name, re-christening her ‘beautiful’, and when one of the previous heroines came out with this:
“If he wants to protect me by not letting me watch the news and by doing his best not to talk about the missions he goes on with his friends, I’m okay with that because it means he loves me.”
I almost dropped my Kindle. Heroines in romantic suspense novels are generally not damsels in distress who wilt at the first sign of trouble; they’re supposed to be as capable, clever and tough as their heroes and able to rescue themselves (and him) when the necessity arises. But I read that, and thought I’d gone through a wormhole and back to the 1970s.
There are plenty of four and five star reviews for Defending Morgan on Goodreads, so clearly the author has a dedicated fan-base, and if you’ve enjoyed her books before, this might work for you. But I found it slow, corny, and boring – and I can’t recommend it.
Susan Stoker is a popular and prolific author of romantic suspense novels and has written several long-running series in the genre. I recently listened to an audiobook (Rescuing Mary (Delta Force Heroes) #9) of one of her titles, and wasn’t wowed by it; I’d failed to realise it was the last book (of nine) in a series, but I wasn’t lost so much as I’d clearly missed out on some important details regarding the central couple, whose relationship had been building since book one. So I thought I’d give the author another try, and picked up Defending Morgan when it came up for review. I knew it was part of a series – it’s book three of Mountain Mercenaries – but the series factor wasn’t the cause of the problems I had with it. I was able to follow the story and action, but it’s slow, there isn’t enough plot to fill a full-length novel, the characters are bland, the romance is limp and much of the dialogue is wordy, repetitive, and unrealistic.
The story opens in media res as a three man team comprised of Archer Kane (aka Arrow – geddit?), Black and Ball (yes, these guys might not be in the military any more, but they still have to have nicknames) effects the rescue of a little girl called Nina, who was kidnapped and removed from the US by her father. The men get a surprise when they discover Nina isn’t alone; a young woman Arrow recognises as Morgan Byrd – who has been missing for around a year – is with her. There’s no time to ask questions; the men get Morgan and Nina away, but decide it’ll be safer for them to split up and make their way to the safe house in two groups – Black and Ball will take Nina and Morgan will travel with Arrow.
After just a few pages, we’re told that Arrow feels some sort of deep connection to Morgan –
She was different from all the other women he’d saved over the years. It was as if he could sense her determination. He was proud of her… He also felt more protective towards this woman than anyone else he’d rescued.
The first third of the book deals with the rescue and Arrow and Morgan making their way to the safe house, but even though they have a couple of run-ins with her captors, it’s pretty stodgy going. It’s mostly Arrow going all ga-ga over Morgan and thinking about how amazing she is to have borne what she’s gone through and how much he wants to protect her, in similar vein to the passage I quoted above. The author makes it clear, very subtly, that Morgan was repeatedly raped, and it’s clear Arrow knows it, too, so I suppose it’s in his favour that he doesn’t start with the mental lusting; instead barely a page goes by without him thinking or telling her how incredible she is.
Once the group are back together, they manage to get Morgan – who has no passport or papers – out of the Dominican Republic and back into the US without any problem, and then set about working out who had her kidnapped and was paying to have her kept there indefinitely.
And that’s basically the plot. We get cameos by the heroes and heroines of the previous books, various scenes with the team of heroes-in-waiting, and a backstory for the mysterious Rex, who set up the Mountain Mercenaries (a group of former military guys who are sent in to rescue women and children in precarious circumstances around the world) after his wife disappeared. (I’m betting his will be the final book in the set.) But the plot is tissue-paper thin, and as in the first third, most of the rest of the book is devoted to Arrow telling Morgan how wonderful she is and saying stuff like this:
“I saw a woman who was scared out of her skull, but wasn’t afraid to stick up for a small child who needed her. I saw a woman who had been through hell, but somehow the goodness in her still shone from every pore… Even before I knew who you were, and what your story was, I knew you were special.”
“Just by your presence, you’ve made this apartment more of a home than it’s been since I moved in. You’ve filled it with your energy and goodness.”
Jeez. Pass the bucket.
Thankfully, therapy is part of Morgan’s recovery. She’s attracted to Arrow, but worried that she’ll never be able to have sex with him – a valid concern given what happened to her. But guess what? Arrow isn’t worried.
“My dick isn’t going to fall off if we don’t make love. We can get creative if you aren’t comfortable with penetration. And I can always masturbate.”
Wow. He always knows exactly the right thing to say, huh?
The search for the person behind Morgan’s kidnap goes pretty much nowhere until the villain reveals themselves and OMG, I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry at the sheer awfulness of their internal monologue.
After two books, I think I can say, categorically, that this author isn’t for me. There’s no romance, no suspense, page after page of sappy sentimentalism and I just can’t buy all these big, tough alpha guys giving each other relationship advice. Arrow pretty much never calls Morgan by name, re-christening her ‘beautiful’, and when one of the previous heroines came out with this:
“If he wants to protect me by not letting me watch the news and by doing his best not to talk about the missions he goes on with his friends, I’m okay with that because it means he loves me.”
I almost dropped my Kindle. Heroines in romantic suspense novels are generally not damsels in distress who wilt at the first sign of trouble; they’re supposed to be as capable, clever and tough as their heroes and able to rescue themselves (and him) when the necessity arises. But I read that, and thought I’d gone through a wormhole and back to the 1970s.
There are plenty of four and five star reviews for Defending Morgan on Goodreads, so clearly the author has a dedicated fan-base, and if you’ve enjoyed her books before, this might work for you. But I found it slow, corny, and boring – and I can’t recommend it.
Want to read
March 5, 2019
It's LIVE!
Someone wants her gone and forgotten. An Alpha Mercenary wants her here and now.
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FIRST 2 CHAPTERS HERE
February 5, 2019
ARC received for review
Arrow was amazing and perfect for newly rescued Morgan. This book was so realistic after the trauma and hardships that she went through. The kidnapper....OH MY....never saw that one coming. The rest of the team are just as amazing as always.
Loved the teaser about Black's book, but I was hoping it was going to be Ball after...no spoilers here.
Arrow was amazing and perfect for newly rescued Morgan. This book was so realistic after the trauma and hardships that she went through. The kidnapper....OH MY....never saw that one coming. The rest of the team are just as amazing as always.
Loved the teaser about Black's book, but I was hoping it was going to be Ball after...no spoilers here.
June 7, 2019
Archer “Arrow” Kane and the team are in the Dominican Republican on a quest to rescue a 5 yr girl, taken by her father and kidnapped. What they never expect is to find Morgan Byrd, a high profile missing persons case for over a year, in the hut where they find little Nina.
What Archer doesnt expect is her beauty, her resolve, her strength. The more he works to rescue her and get her to safety and back to the USA the more enamored he becomes with her and the idea of keeping her safe and figuring out who took her in the first place.
While working with the team to figure out who took her, Arrow will also work to help Morgan acclimate to being back and the horrors she endured while held captive. When things start happening around them, he will protect her with all that he is. Hoping to keep her safe.
I liked this one a little better than book 2. Easy pick for the who but I like how evil and twisted the person was.
What Archer doesnt expect is her beauty, her resolve, her strength. The more he works to rescue her and get her to safety and back to the USA the more enamored he becomes with her and the idea of keeping her safe and figuring out who took her in the first place.
While working with the team to figure out who took her, Arrow will also work to help Morgan acclimate to being back and the horrors she endured while held captive. When things start happening around them, he will protect her with all that he is. Hoping to keep her safe.
I liked this one a little better than book 2. Easy pick for the who but I like how evil and twisted the person was.
March 5, 2019
When the rescue of an abducted child, leads the team of mercenaries to discover a woman who's been missing for over a year, the mission becomes more than they planned for. Morgan Byrd has been through literal hell since she was kidnapped, but discovering that someone has been paying to keep her alive and in another country, has her questioning everyone close to her. "Arrow" Kane feels protective of Morgan and those feelings quickly develop into a strong attraction that he can't fight, but the danger of who's behind her abduction must come first. Defending Morgan is fast-paced, heart breaking at times, but a wild ride I didn't want to end!
March 3, 2019
Defending Morgan by Susan Stoker is book Three in the Mountain Mercenaries Series. This is the story of Archer 'Arrow' Kane and Morgan Byrd. I have read the previous books, but feel if you wish you can make this a standalone book.
Arrow is sent on a mission to rescue a child that has been taken and thought to be in the Santo Domingo. There he does find the child but he also finds Morgan. Morgan was taken over a year ago and has lived through abuse. Only happy that the child will be saved she didn't think that she would be able to leave too. Arrow is taken back by Morgan being there but more so about his strong feelings that have come forward over her.
Exciting Read!!
Arrow is sent on a mission to rescue a child that has been taken and thought to be in the Santo Domingo. There he does find the child but he also finds Morgan. Morgan was taken over a year ago and has lived through abuse. Only happy that the child will be saved she didn't think that she would be able to leave too. Arrow is taken back by Morgan being there but more so about his strong feelings that have come forward over her.
Exciting Read!!
March 17, 2019
Susan Stoker delivered another heartbreaking, heart-gripping, intense, and powerful story.
I adored Arrow and Morgan's connection.... It was something she most desperately needed. Her strength and resilience matched his patience and determination.
If you are looking for a beautifully intense but yet nicely easy-to-read-and-fall-for story, this is it.
I adored Arrow and Morgan's connection.... It was something she most desperately needed. Her strength and resilience matched his patience and determination.
If you are looking for a beautifully intense but yet nicely easy-to-read-and-fall-for story, this is it.
March 2, 2019
Defending Morgan is the third book in Susan Stoker’s Mountain Mercenaries Series. This book is action packed filled with great characters, chemistry, intimacy and a great love story.
Former Navy Seal Archer “Arrow” Kane accidentally discovers Morgan Byrd in a shack in Santo Domingo while rescuing a child who had been abducted by her father. Morgan has been missing for over a year, but while she has been victimized during her ordeal, Arrow is amazed to find her resilient, brave and unbroken.
Their connection is deep and instantaneous. Arrow feels an intense desire to protect Morgan and despite her experiences, she craves the safe and caring bubble that Arrow’s presence elicits. But as their feelings blossom, the mystery surrounding Morgan’s disappearance and escalating events indicate that Morgan’s enemy isn’t done with her yet. Will the Mountain Mercenaries be able to discover the person behind Morgan’s kidnapping? Will Arrow be able to keep her safe when danger ventures closer? Read it to find out!
I have read several of Susan Stokers books. She does a fantastic job creating characters and intense, action packed love stories. Both the heroes and heroines in Stoker’s books are good, strong characters with strong morals and personalities. The stories focus on working together to overcoming difficult and often life changing events. Love, and trust, does conquer all.
This book contains a happily ever after. Each novel in this series ends with an introduction to the characters in the next book, and a juicy and intriguing hint is also dropped regarding to plot line. I can’t wait for the next book!
This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy received from Netgalley.
Former Navy Seal Archer “Arrow” Kane accidentally discovers Morgan Byrd in a shack in Santo Domingo while rescuing a child who had been abducted by her father. Morgan has been missing for over a year, but while she has been victimized during her ordeal, Arrow is amazed to find her resilient, brave and unbroken.
Their connection is deep and instantaneous. Arrow feels an intense desire to protect Morgan and despite her experiences, she craves the safe and caring bubble that Arrow’s presence elicits. But as their feelings blossom, the mystery surrounding Morgan’s disappearance and escalating events indicate that Morgan’s enemy isn’t done with her yet. Will the Mountain Mercenaries be able to discover the person behind Morgan’s kidnapping? Will Arrow be able to keep her safe when danger ventures closer? Read it to find out!
I have read several of Susan Stokers books. She does a fantastic job creating characters and intense, action packed love stories. Both the heroes and heroines in Stoker’s books are good, strong characters with strong morals and personalities. The stories focus on working together to overcoming difficult and often life changing events. Love, and trust, does conquer all.
This book contains a happily ever after. Each novel in this series ends with an introduction to the characters in the next book, and a juicy and intriguing hint is also dropped regarding to plot line. I can’t wait for the next book!
This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy received from Netgalley.
March 4, 2019
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I ploughed through the first quarter of Defending Morgan which is full of action as Arrow and the team try to get Morgan to safety and back to the USA. The pace of the story is good all the way through but there are a few parts of the book full of action and danger and they had me completely sucked in and on the edge of my seat. The mystery of who actually had Morgan kidnapped is well done too.
Arrow and Morgan develop a connection under intense and dangerous circumstances. I like that Arrow falls for Morgan at a time when physically is isn’t at her best because he falls for who she is and not what she looks like. I also loved the way the way the author deals with the physical intimacy between Arrow and Morgan after her kidnapping. Respect is paid to this subject.
However, I did think the emotional fallout from Morgan being held captive could have been dealt with more. It was kind of glossed over.
Defending Morgan is exactly what you’d expect from the romantic suspense genre. It was engaging and entertaining and I really had a good time reading it.
I ploughed through the first quarter of Defending Morgan which is full of action as Arrow and the team try to get Morgan to safety and back to the USA. The pace of the story is good all the way through but there are a few parts of the book full of action and danger and they had me completely sucked in and on the edge of my seat. The mystery of who actually had Morgan kidnapped is well done too.
Arrow and Morgan develop a connection under intense and dangerous circumstances. I like that Arrow falls for Morgan at a time when physically is isn’t at her best because he falls for who she is and not what she looks like. I also loved the way the way the author deals with the physical intimacy between Arrow and Morgan after her kidnapping. Respect is paid to this subject.
However, I did think the emotional fallout from Morgan being held captive could have been dealt with more. It was kind of glossed over.
Defending Morgan is exactly what you’d expect from the romantic suspense genre. It was engaging and entertaining and I really had a good time reading it.
March 8, 2019
✦Review: DEFENDING MORGAN (Mountain Mercenaries Book 3) by Susan Stoker https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-b3l
Publication Date: March 5, 2019
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4 Stars
was riveted to this exciting romantic suspense story. Archer had me hooked right away and wormed his way into my heart. He was the perfect gentle-tough-guy for Morgan. She went through hell and back but kept her inner strength. I liked how she was strong and still allowed herself to lean on the expert. They were what each other needed. The excitement started immediately, keeping me turning pages to see how they would get themselves out, then it slowed down during the relationship journey before jumping to the unexpected climax. It isn’t a hot and sexy romance, but one that was fitting for the people involved. I like the personalities of the mercenaries, so wish there was more banter and camaraderie between them. Perhaps in the next installment – I’m counting the days until it’s release.
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
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Publication Date: March 5, 2019
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4 Stars
was riveted to this exciting romantic suspense story. Archer had me hooked right away and wormed his way into my heart. He was the perfect gentle-tough-guy for Morgan. She went through hell and back but kept her inner strength. I liked how she was strong and still allowed herself to lean on the expert. They were what each other needed. The excitement started immediately, keeping me turning pages to see how they would get themselves out, then it slowed down during the relationship journey before jumping to the unexpected climax. It isn’t a hot and sexy romance, but one that was fitting for the people involved. I like the personalities of the mercenaries, so wish there was more banter and camaraderie between them. Perhaps in the next installment – I’m counting the days until it’s release.
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle $4.99 https://amzn.to/2ByEZWQ
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February 3, 2025
First of all, this story is E P I C! Morgan's strength is what draws Arrow to her, and it's what draws the reader in, as well. At least, it did THIS reader!
I love the instant connection, and the care Arrow takes w/ Morgan throughout their story. Even when he has a misstep, he's quick to apologize & do anything & everything to make sure Morgan knows he's there for her. ESPECIALLY during the HEA portion of their HEA. LOVE!!!
We also get to see more interaction w/ Allye & Chloe & their men, and all the Mercenaries show a bit of their hearts. We even get to see more of DAVE, which is cool. AND we have the twisty-like-a-pretzel portion of the story, which is just as delicious! Thumbs way up for this installment of the series & once again the tease for the next book has me counting down the days!! : )
I love the instant connection, and the care Arrow takes w/ Morgan throughout their story. Even when he has a misstep, he's quick to apologize & do anything & everything to make sure Morgan knows he's there for her. ESPECIALLY during the HEA portion of their HEA. LOVE!!!
We also get to see more interaction w/ Allye & Chloe & their men, and all the Mercenaries show a bit of their hearts. We even get to see more of DAVE, which is cool. AND we have the twisty-like-a-pretzel portion of the story, which is just as delicious! Thumbs way up for this installment of the series & once again the tease for the next book has me counting down the days!! : )
June 20, 2020
*3.75 SNATCHED STARS*
Not a bad book!
This was definitely more of a romance on the romantic suspense scale (I would've preferred a bit more action/suspense myself).
This book focused more on the relationship between Arrow and Morgan and the aftermath of what she's been through. I LOVE how kind and understanding Arrow is!
This was my first Mountain Mercenaries book but I'll definitely go back and read the first two!
Received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Not a bad book!
This was definitely more of a romance on the romantic suspense scale (I would've preferred a bit more action/suspense myself).
This book focused more on the relationship between Arrow and Morgan and the aftermath of what she's been through. I LOVE how kind and understanding Arrow is!
This was my first Mountain Mercenaries book but I'll definitely go back and read the first two!
Received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
February 19, 2019
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third book in the series and is just as good (maybe better) than the previous two. I would recommend that you read them in order, as it will bring out some of the fine detail, but it is excellent on its own too. I am assuming in my review that you have read them.
Morgan's story is beautifully told, and has an incredibly shocking explanation. I had to stop reading a few times, because as I started to piece it together, the truth was revealed and the lack of humanity was difficult to take. Brilliantly done, with great originality. After both Allye and Chloe had suffered twice, I was naturally expecting that history would repeat itself, but never, never in that way! I have had to take a couple of days away from the story to gather my thoughts.
As we have enjoyed both Gray and Ro find their HEAs it was an absolute pleasure to watch Archer (Arrow) discover just how love can strike at the most unexpected time, in the most unexpected place. His tenderness, his readiness to lay it all on the line, to give her his honesty and build her trust is incredibly sexy. And for a woman who has suffered as she has, it is the most loving way he could show his feelings.
I am still reeling at the reveal, and thankful of the outcome - cannot wait until the next Mountain Mercenary gets his turn ... and I have strong suspicions as to who Rex really is, but hope that one day we all know for sure!
This is the third book in the series and is just as good (maybe better) than the previous two. I would recommend that you read them in order, as it will bring out some of the fine detail, but it is excellent on its own too. I am assuming in my review that you have read them.
Morgan's story is beautifully told, and has an incredibly shocking explanation. I had to stop reading a few times, because as I started to piece it together, the truth was revealed and the lack of humanity was difficult to take. Brilliantly done, with great originality. After both Allye and Chloe had suffered twice, I was naturally expecting that history would repeat itself, but never, never in that way! I have had to take a couple of days away from the story to gather my thoughts.
As we have enjoyed both Gray and Ro find their HEAs it was an absolute pleasure to watch Archer (Arrow) discover just how love can strike at the most unexpected time, in the most unexpected place. His tenderness, his readiness to lay it all on the line, to give her his honesty and build her trust is incredibly sexy. And for a woman who has suffered as she has, it is the most loving way he could show his feelings.
I am still reeling at the reveal, and thankful of the outcome - cannot wait until the next Mountain Mercenary gets his turn ... and I have strong suspicions as to who Rex really is, but hope that one day we all know for sure!
December 26, 2021
As always the author has not failed in delivering a great book, with a story that touched my heart, The characters are great, everyone of them, ok they are Alphas to the 10th degree, but they are also men capable of loving and protecting the ones they love.
Having been sent to the Dominican Republic to rescue a kidnapped child, former Navy SEAL Archer “Arrow” Kane, manages to discover Morgan Byrd, a woman who has been missing for a year now.
Morgan is a beautiful and strong woman, and well know since she vanished of the streets of Atlanta a year ago.
Now Arrow wants to know why she ended up where they found her, what happened to her and why she was here and also to find out who kidnapped her. Susan now takes us on a adventure that takes us back to the states, we also find out just what Morgan has gone through, and I have to say this, no one and mean no one should go through what she and the little girl went through. And one can see Morgans strength as the days unravel and as Arrow and his men try to find out just what happened.
The party or parties responsible for the kidnapping and for keeping her prisoner are found and oh my lord, what a twist and am sure all will be surprised, and might not guess who the party is. So my lips are sealed on this one, can't spoil it for those who have not read the book.
It is a great story, the characters are fantastic, well worth reading, and can't wait for the next book. Thank you Susan Stoker for a wonderful story.
Having been sent to the Dominican Republic to rescue a kidnapped child, former Navy SEAL Archer “Arrow” Kane, manages to discover Morgan Byrd, a woman who has been missing for a year now.
Morgan is a beautiful and strong woman, and well know since she vanished of the streets of Atlanta a year ago.
Now Arrow wants to know why she ended up where they found her, what happened to her and why she was here and also to find out who kidnapped her. Susan now takes us on a adventure that takes us back to the states, we also find out just what Morgan has gone through, and I have to say this, no one and mean no one should go through what she and the little girl went through. And one can see Morgans strength as the days unravel and as Arrow and his men try to find out just what happened.
The party or parties responsible for the kidnapping and for keeping her prisoner are found and oh my lord, what a twist and am sure all will be surprised, and might not guess who the party is. So my lips are sealed on this one, can't spoil it for those who have not read the book.
It is a great story, the characters are fantastic, well worth reading, and can't wait for the next book. Thank you Susan Stoker for a wonderful story.
August 5, 2019
I wish we could all have a Mountain Mercenary of our own!
You cannot help but love all the Mountain Mercenaries because whilst they are strong, steely, Alpha males they worship, protect and respect their women. They seem to know exactly when their women need them to protect them, when to stand next to them giving emotional support and when to stand behind them, supporting them whilst they make their own point. Swoon! They have it all and Archer is no different, from the second he sees Morgan he knows she is going to change his life, she is his other half.
Just as Ms Stokers heros have it all, she has a unique ability to create amazing female leads who - whilst they have been through hell and are at the worst possible point in their lives are not whiny and needy they are strong, determined women who may stumble or falter on their path to recovery but will ultimately succeed and you cannot do anything but respect them for it. Morgan is a perfect example of this.
The chemistry and love pouring from this book suck you in then the plot twists grab you and before you know it you have reached the end of the book a little dazed, in shock, emotionally exhausted but very happy in totally in love....with Arrow, Morgan and the whole Mountain Mercenaries crew. I have to say for me this is the best of the series so far!
You cannot help but love all the Mountain Mercenaries because whilst they are strong, steely, Alpha males they worship, protect and respect their women. They seem to know exactly when their women need them to protect them, when to stand next to them giving emotional support and when to stand behind them, supporting them whilst they make their own point. Swoon! They have it all and Archer is no different, from the second he sees Morgan he knows she is going to change his life, she is his other half.
Just as Ms Stokers heros have it all, she has a unique ability to create amazing female leads who - whilst they have been through hell and are at the worst possible point in their lives are not whiny and needy they are strong, determined women who may stumble or falter on their path to recovery but will ultimately succeed and you cannot do anything but respect them for it. Morgan is a perfect example of this.
The chemistry and love pouring from this book suck you in then the plot twists grab you and before you know it you have reached the end of the book a little dazed, in shock, emotionally exhausted but very happy in totally in love....with Arrow, Morgan and the whole Mountain Mercenaries crew. I have to say for me this is the best of the series so far!
March 31, 2019
In this third book, when the Mountain Mercenaries go into the Dominic Republic to rescue a child. Archer one of the rescuers realizes that the other person in the room is Morgan Byrd. She has been missing for a year and she is standing in front of the girl protecting her. Archer is immediately attracted to her, by her strength and resilience. The team splits up and Archer and Morgan go a different way to throw off the guards. The guards though are tracking them and not the girl. Morgan is keeping up with Archer all the way and it takes a little over twenty-four hours before they make it back with their team. It still takes a little while before they make it back to the U.S. Once on the ground Morgan’s parents who are divorced each want a piece of her along with the press. She wants to hide and spends time with Archer and trying to make sense of everything. Meanwhile, the team is working on who would want to kidnap her and hold her for over a year without offering a ransom. The story goes along and you begin to wonder as well. When you get to the end and find out I must say I was totally shocked. As for Morgan and Archer, they have much work to do even though they love each other. I found this to be a very good book. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
March 7, 2019
Well, that was suspenseful and thrilling. I had an idea who was behind it all but I have to say it was still a bloody shock when it was confirmed, honestly, I thought I was crazy thinking it but just wow some people are just downright evil.
Arrow, gorgeous a retired marine and a Moutain Mercenary, that's pretty much a woman's dream man right there, add in his neat freak side and that he can cook a mean omelet and you have a seriously good package...lol not to mention his protective, sweet and loving nature... 'fanning myself here'
Morgan survived hell, was rescued by the man who not only changed her life by saving her but by also loving her and showing her how her strength was her greatest gift. Morgan was tough when she needed to be and vulnerable at times as well, I thought she handled herself so well whilst being held captive and even more so after being rescued.
This was a great story, Susan Stoker has a way of writing really difficult and terrifying storylines and making them compelling stories with so much heart and warmth in them even in the toughest times.
Arrow, gorgeous a retired marine and a Moutain Mercenary, that's pretty much a woman's dream man right there, add in his neat freak side and that he can cook a mean omelet and you have a seriously good package...lol not to mention his protective, sweet and loving nature... 'fanning myself here'
Morgan survived hell, was rescued by the man who not only changed her life by saving her but by also loving her and showing her how her strength was her greatest gift. Morgan was tough when she needed to be and vulnerable at times as well, I thought she handled herself so well whilst being held captive and even more so after being rescued.
This was a great story, Susan Stoker has a way of writing really difficult and terrifying storylines and making them compelling stories with so much heart and warmth in them even in the toughest times.
January 22, 2019
Deals with some very heavy issues (trigger warning for sure) but I thought Stoker handled it in a realistic manner. I struggled with one of her earlier books that had a heroine go through something similar to Morgan. She jumped right into bed with her savior. While I think everyone handles trauma differently, the approach Stoker took with Morgan felt more believable to me.
February 26, 2021
Chris McGranitt - per RFS
.
Salve mie care Fenici,
Benvenute a una nuova recensione dedicata ai nostri amati Mercenari di Montagna.
Oggi il protagonista della nostra storia è Archer “Arrow” Kane, anche lui come i suoi amici è un ex militare, stavolta mandato in missione per il salvataggio di una bambina; ciò che non si aspettava era trovare sul luogo un’altra persona scomparsa, peraltro famosa proprio perché sparita da un anno da Atlanta, ovvero Morgan Byrd.
Morgan Byrd non crede ai suoi occhi, sa che non sono venuti per lei, ma farà di tutto per uscire da quella casa maledetta e non essere più sottomessa ai suoi rapitori, non sa chi la vuole prigioniera ma non morta, ma fortunatamente Arrow le offrirà tempo per guarire e aiuto per cercare chi ha orchestrato la sua cattura a tempo indeterminato e non si fermerà fino a quando la “sua” donna non sarà al sicuro.
Questa storia è veramente da brividi, dimentico sempre che siamo nati nel lato fortunato del mondo, eppure racconti simili esistono e non tutti vanno a buon fine; comunque per rientrare in tema vi posso dire che è un libro molto intenso, con azione e una grande dose di tenerezza, il lato sensuale è offuscato da emozioni potenti che rendono il romanzo verosimile.
Morgan è una donna bellissima che apparentemente non ha alle spalle nulla da nascondere eppure in qualche modo è stata strappata alla sua routine, alle sue abitudini e tenuta in prigionia, preda di indicibili sevizie… per volere di chi? Ora si ritrova in uno stato pietoso eppure brilla per resistenza, orgoglio e determinazione specie quando si tratta di proteggere la piccola Nina che instaura immediatamente con lei un legame forte. Arrow è fin da subito preso da lei e l’istinto li guiderà entrambi in territori per loro inesplorati, consapevoli dei pericoli sia fisici, invisibili e psicologici che renderanno questa storia tormentata, la più soddisfacente di sempre. Già dai primi capitoli si capisce come il loro legame acquisti importanza e tenacia, poiché forgiato nelle avversità. Questo rapporto aumenterà la sua forza pian piano andando avanti, senza che si venga offuscati dal lato sensuale che inevitabilmente sfocia tra i due.
Narrata con POV dei protagonisti alternato, consiglio vivamente la lettura dei volumi precedenti, poiché l’incipit del capitolo in corso è lì presente ed è utile per una maggiore comprensione della storia stessa. Continuo ad amare questa serie, ogni libro è accattivante, ma questo è dotato di una dolcezza che mi ha commossa, come i pochissimi momenti d’intimità molto intensi.
Questo libro va gustato con calma per assaporare ogni momento, ogni emozione e farla vostra. Vi auguro una splendida lettura in loro compagnie fenici e alla prossima.
.
Salve mie care Fenici,
Benvenute a una nuova recensione dedicata ai nostri amati Mercenari di Montagna.
Oggi il protagonista della nostra storia è Archer “Arrow” Kane, anche lui come i suoi amici è un ex militare, stavolta mandato in missione per il salvataggio di una bambina; ciò che non si aspettava era trovare sul luogo un’altra persona scomparsa, peraltro famosa proprio perché sparita da un anno da Atlanta, ovvero Morgan Byrd.
Morgan Byrd non crede ai suoi occhi, sa che non sono venuti per lei, ma farà di tutto per uscire da quella casa maledetta e non essere più sottomessa ai suoi rapitori, non sa chi la vuole prigioniera ma non morta, ma fortunatamente Arrow le offrirà tempo per guarire e aiuto per cercare chi ha orchestrato la sua cattura a tempo indeterminato e non si fermerà fino a quando la “sua” donna non sarà al sicuro.
Questa storia è veramente da brividi, dimentico sempre che siamo nati nel lato fortunato del mondo, eppure racconti simili esistono e non tutti vanno a buon fine; comunque per rientrare in tema vi posso dire che è un libro molto intenso, con azione e una grande dose di tenerezza, il lato sensuale è offuscato da emozioni potenti che rendono il romanzo verosimile.
Morgan è una donna bellissima che apparentemente non ha alle spalle nulla da nascondere eppure in qualche modo è stata strappata alla sua routine, alle sue abitudini e tenuta in prigionia, preda di indicibili sevizie… per volere di chi? Ora si ritrova in uno stato pietoso eppure brilla per resistenza, orgoglio e determinazione specie quando si tratta di proteggere la piccola Nina che instaura immediatamente con lei un legame forte. Arrow è fin da subito preso da lei e l’istinto li guiderà entrambi in territori per loro inesplorati, consapevoli dei pericoli sia fisici, invisibili e psicologici che renderanno questa storia tormentata, la più soddisfacente di sempre. Già dai primi capitoli si capisce come il loro legame acquisti importanza e tenacia, poiché forgiato nelle avversità. Questo rapporto aumenterà la sua forza pian piano andando avanti, senza che si venga offuscati dal lato sensuale che inevitabilmente sfocia tra i due.
Narrata con POV dei protagonisti alternato, consiglio vivamente la lettura dei volumi precedenti, poiché l’incipit del capitolo in corso è lì presente ed è utile per una maggiore comprensione della storia stessa. Continuo ad amare questa serie, ogni libro è accattivante, ma questo è dotato di una dolcezza che mi ha commossa, come i pochissimi momenti d’intimità molto intensi.
Questo libro va gustato con calma per assaporare ogni momento, ogni emozione e farla vostra. Vi auguro una splendida lettura in loro compagnie fenici e alla prossima.
March 4, 2019
***5 Stars***
And we have another great addition to the series! Not that I really doubted that would be the case, but sometimes it just needs to be put out into the world. I was hooked from the very start and was totally into seeing Arrow and Morgan not only get their HEA , but finding out just who was behind Morgan’s kidnapping and when it was finally revealed...let’s just say I didn’t really see that one coming at all.
I adored Arrow. This man is all kinds of goodness right down to his DNA. I loved how honest he was, not only with others, but himself because once he chose a path, he stuck to it. Morgan blew me away. She had endured hell and could have very well succumbed to cynicism and despair, but instead clung to hope and held on to the knowledge that she would get out of her situation alive and be reunited with her loved ones.
I really enjoyed their journey to their HEA. The connection was definitely insta, but it worked for me because of how honest and sincere Arrow was about his feelings. He felt a connection to Morgan and simply wanted to explore it. Morgan was hesitant, and rightfully so, but she decided to trust her gut and I loved where things between them went from there. The honest communication that went on between them was all kinds of everything for me. I loved watching them get closer each day and couldn’t have been happier with where they were at in the end.
If you’ve read any of the authors other books, in this series or in any of her others, you know that there are...elements that always pop up in each book, and this one is no different, in a general sense. There is the insta style interest and blunt and honest alpha male, but I really liked how Arrow and Morgan’s relationship played out because she kept the characters not only true to themselves while not losing sight of what both of them, specifically Morgan, had endured. She didn’t force any resolutions or changes that were extreme or out of character. It all felt absolutely organic. And as for the baddie in this one? Definitely did not see that one coming, or the reasons behind it all, but it totally worked!
Now to wait patiently for Black’s book!
~ Copy provided by the publisher & voluntarily reviewed ~
And we have another great addition to the series! Not that I really doubted that would be the case, but sometimes it just needs to be put out into the world. I was hooked from the very start and was totally into seeing Arrow and Morgan not only get their HEA , but finding out just who was behind Morgan’s kidnapping and when it was finally revealed...let’s just say I didn’t really see that one coming at all.
I adored Arrow. This man is all kinds of goodness right down to his DNA. I loved how honest he was, not only with others, but himself because once he chose a path, he stuck to it. Morgan blew me away. She had endured hell and could have very well succumbed to cynicism and despair, but instead clung to hope and held on to the knowledge that she would get out of her situation alive and be reunited with her loved ones.
I really enjoyed their journey to their HEA. The connection was definitely insta, but it worked for me because of how honest and sincere Arrow was about his feelings. He felt a connection to Morgan and simply wanted to explore it. Morgan was hesitant, and rightfully so, but she decided to trust her gut and I loved where things between them went from there. The honest communication that went on between them was all kinds of everything for me. I loved watching them get closer each day and couldn’t have been happier with where they were at in the end.
If you’ve read any of the authors other books, in this series or in any of her others, you know that there are...elements that always pop up in each book, and this one is no different, in a general sense. There is the insta style interest and blunt and honest alpha male, but I really liked how Arrow and Morgan’s relationship played out because she kept the characters not only true to themselves while not losing sight of what both of them, specifically Morgan, had endured. She didn’t force any resolutions or changes that were extreme or out of character. It all felt absolutely organic. And as for the baddie in this one? Definitely did not see that one coming, or the reasons behind it all, but it totally worked!
Now to wait patiently for Black’s book!
~ Copy provided by the publisher & voluntarily reviewed ~
February 19, 2019
This book was awesome! I loved everything about it. Stoker has a way of writing that grabs your attention and pulls you in from the start. There is always a certain draw to her characters that keeps me invested with them throughout the read, as well as the fact that she always integrates real, believable scenarios surrounding the characters; whether it is abuse, bullying, appearance, social awkwardness, etc., regardless of the circumstances, they have something important and monumental to overcome. I always enjoy her depiction of the men in her stories, military or ex-military who have a strong sense of duty and honor as well as compassionate and caring natures towards the women they fall for and the resilient, strong women that come into their lives.
Defending Morgan was a heartwarming story full of suspense, action, mystery, drama, emotional conflict and sweet romance. Arrow was completely swoon worthy and endearing and I loved his handling of Morgan. His heart was invested with her from the beginning and he was her emotional rock and physical shield/protector to the world. He was patient and caring and understanding of her circumstances and was a solid unwavering presence at her side as they uncovered the truth of her kidnapping and abuse and helped her to rebuild her life. My heart broke for Morgan, with all she endured and survived after being kidnapped, abused, held captive for over a year then surprisingly rescued and thrust back into society with her family, the media and police and someone still after her. She had so much trauma, emotional and physical, as well as dealing with her parents and life in general as she struggled to find her place. With everything she had undergone, she had so much to overcome but she was a survivor; strong, levelheaded and determined to get her life back. She and Arrow had such a special connection, an unbreakable bond of trust, and I enjoyed watching their relationship blossom and the fact that nothing was ever rushed, it was slow and steady and believable. Stoker also does a wonderful job of suspenseful buildup. The twists and turns the story takes to get to the truth behind Morgan’s kidnapping was gripping and I was shocked to discover the culprit. I never suspected it, I had someone else in mind. Arrow and Morgan’s journey to their HEA was emotional and sweet and I loved watching their journey.
As with all Stoker’s other books, this one can be read as a standalone but I think it would be better enjoyed reading it in series order to meet all the guys and their ladies. This book does touch on trigger subjects such as kidnapping, implied rape and torture, and emotional trauma but the subjects are handled delicately with care, no explicit acts are described. And staying consistent with her other stories, we get a teaser for the next book in the series at the end. This was a great story beginning to end and I look forward to the next in the series.
*I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley and I am providing my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Defending Morgan was a heartwarming story full of suspense, action, mystery, drama, emotional conflict and sweet romance. Arrow was completely swoon worthy and endearing and I loved his handling of Morgan. His heart was invested with her from the beginning and he was her emotional rock and physical shield/protector to the world. He was patient and caring and understanding of her circumstances and was a solid unwavering presence at her side as they uncovered the truth of her kidnapping and abuse and helped her to rebuild her life. My heart broke for Morgan, with all she endured and survived after being kidnapped, abused, held captive for over a year then surprisingly rescued and thrust back into society with her family, the media and police and someone still after her. She had so much trauma, emotional and physical, as well as dealing with her parents and life in general as she struggled to find her place. With everything she had undergone, she had so much to overcome but she was a survivor; strong, levelheaded and determined to get her life back. She and Arrow had such a special connection, an unbreakable bond of trust, and I enjoyed watching their relationship blossom and the fact that nothing was ever rushed, it was slow and steady and believable. Stoker also does a wonderful job of suspenseful buildup. The twists and turns the story takes to get to the truth behind Morgan’s kidnapping was gripping and I was shocked to discover the culprit. I never suspected it, I had someone else in mind. Arrow and Morgan’s journey to their HEA was emotional and sweet and I loved watching their journey.
As with all Stoker’s other books, this one can be read as a standalone but I think it would be better enjoyed reading it in series order to meet all the guys and their ladies. This book does touch on trigger subjects such as kidnapping, implied rape and torture, and emotional trauma but the subjects are handled delicately with care, no explicit acts are described. And staying consistent with her other stories, we get a teaser for the next book in the series at the end. This was a great story beginning to end and I look forward to the next in the series.
*I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley and I am providing my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 16, 2019
In this third book, when the Mountain Mercenaries go into the Dominic Republic to rescue a child. Archer one of the rescuers realizes that the other person in the room is Morgan Byrd. She has been missing for a year and she is standing in front of the girl protecting her. Archer is immediately attracted to her, by her strength and resilience. The team splits up and Archer and Morgan go a different way to throw off the guards. The guards though are tracking them and not the girl. Morgan is keeping up with Archer all the way and it takes a little over twenty-four hours before they make it back with their team. It still takes a little while before they make it back to the U.S. Once on the ground Morgan’s parents who are divorced each want a piece of her along with the press. She wants to hide and spends time with Archer and trying to make sense of everything. Meanwhile, the team is working on who would want to kidnap her and hold her for over a year without offering a ransom. The story goes along and you begin to wonder as well. When you get to the end and find out I must say I was totally shocked. As for Morgan and Archer, they have much work to do even though they love each other. I found this to be a very good book. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
January 24, 2020
Arrow and Morgan’s story was page turner from start to finish. Arrow along with his teammates from mountain Mercenaries were on a mission to rescue a little girl who was taken by her father to the Dominican Republic and not returned to her mother. When they found the little girl they also found Morgan who went missing over a year ago.
Arrow and Morgan have an instant connection. He makes her feel safe , something she hasn’t been in over a year since she was kidnapped. Arrow is on a mission to find out who kidnapped her and why, and at the same time trying to keep her safe until he does.
I wouldn’t say this is a slow burn, the love was there instantly. Understandably the sexual part of there relationship was not due the abuse Morgan suffered over the last year. But Arrow was incredibly sweet and patient with Morgan. It is shocking when it’s revealed who had Morgan kidnapped and tortured.
This is my first series by this author and I am really lovin it.
Arrow and Morgan have an instant connection. He makes her feel safe , something she hasn’t been in over a year since she was kidnapped. Arrow is on a mission to find out who kidnapped her and why, and at the same time trying to keep her safe until he does.
I wouldn’t say this is a slow burn, the love was there instantly. Understandably the sexual part of there relationship was not due the abuse Morgan suffered over the last year. But Arrow was incredibly sweet and patient with Morgan. It is shocking when it’s revealed who had Morgan kidnapped and tortured.
This is my first series by this author and I am really lovin it.
February 15, 2019
Defending Morgan
By Susan Stoker
Defending Morgan is the third book in the Mountain Mercenaries series by Susan Stoker and the series just keeps getting better and better! I mean who wouldn’t love to read about a hot hero finding the love of his life in a Caribbean jungle. Ms. Stoker has the ability to ensnare the reader from page one and not let them go until the end of the book!
On a mission to retrieve a kidnapped child, Archer “Arrow” Kane and his band of friends also discover another kidnap victim. One that everyone had thought would never be found. From the moment he meets Morgan Byrd, Arrow can’t hide his interest in her. Her determination and quiet strength draws him in like no other woman ever has. He has watched his fellow brother fall in love with their women and knows somehow Morgan has gotten under his skin very quickly.
Morgan Byrd has lived in hell for the past year. When men sneak in to rescue the child she has been caring for, Morgan is elated and resigned. Happy that the little girl will be out of the clutches of the men that have been keeping her, Morgan is not expecting to be rescued as well. But going home also means that the person who had her kidnapped may try again. Can she trust the men who rescued her to keep her safe? Because Morgan has come to realize that someone she knew orchestrated her kidnapping.
I absolutely loved Morgan. Her resilience after suffering horrifically at the hands of her kidnapping is inspiring and kick-ass. The relationship that develops between Archer and Morgan is very sweet and endearing. I loved watching the interplay between Morgan and the Mercenaries. I love how alpha yet tender Ms. Stokers heroes are. You can’t help but be sucked into their lives. Every book leaves me wanting more from Ms. Stoker. Catching up with old characters, meeting new characters and watching the budding romance is just what every romance reader wants. Ms. Stoker is a fantastic writer and her books never get old. She is definitely an author I love to read. I’m very much looking forward to more in this series and from Ms. Stoker.
By Susan Stoker
Defending Morgan is the third book in the Mountain Mercenaries series by Susan Stoker and the series just keeps getting better and better! I mean who wouldn’t love to read about a hot hero finding the love of his life in a Caribbean jungle. Ms. Stoker has the ability to ensnare the reader from page one and not let them go until the end of the book!
On a mission to retrieve a kidnapped child, Archer “Arrow” Kane and his band of friends also discover another kidnap victim. One that everyone had thought would never be found. From the moment he meets Morgan Byrd, Arrow can’t hide his interest in her. Her determination and quiet strength draws him in like no other woman ever has. He has watched his fellow brother fall in love with their women and knows somehow Morgan has gotten under his skin very quickly.
Morgan Byrd has lived in hell for the past year. When men sneak in to rescue the child she has been caring for, Morgan is elated and resigned. Happy that the little girl will be out of the clutches of the men that have been keeping her, Morgan is not expecting to be rescued as well. But going home also means that the person who had her kidnapped may try again. Can she trust the men who rescued her to keep her safe? Because Morgan has come to realize that someone she knew orchestrated her kidnapping.
I absolutely loved Morgan. Her resilience after suffering horrifically at the hands of her kidnapping is inspiring and kick-ass. The relationship that develops between Archer and Morgan is very sweet and endearing. I loved watching the interplay between Morgan and the Mercenaries. I love how alpha yet tender Ms. Stokers heroes are. You can’t help but be sucked into their lives. Every book leaves me wanting more from Ms. Stoker. Catching up with old characters, meeting new characters and watching the budding romance is just what every romance reader wants. Ms. Stoker is a fantastic writer and her books never get old. She is definitely an author I love to read. I’m very much looking forward to more in this series and from Ms. Stoker.
February 18, 2019
Recovery and love…
This was another suspense and romance-filled romanced from Susan Stoker! Her military men are top of their game and when their latest mission results in not one but two rescues, the drama was just beginning…
Morgan had been through hell but Arrow and his team not only brought her home but provided the support she needed to move forward. The physical chemistry between the two main characters didn’t hurt either. Complicated family and a mystery not yet solved, meant Morgan wasn’t afraid to reach out for a steadying hand or a reassuring pep talk. And Arrow? He was hooked on one of the strongest women he’d ever met so was never far away, wanting to be there for her.
This author knows how to write, well, almost anything. Dialogue, action, romance, suspense – they are blended together here with intriguing characters that range all over the good/bad guy map. Morgan and Arrow’s relationship moved at just the right pace as the danger surrounding them played out…
Another great addition to the series… ~Diane, 4 stars
This was another suspense and romance-filled romanced from Susan Stoker! Her military men are top of their game and when their latest mission results in not one but two rescues, the drama was just beginning…
Morgan had been through hell but Arrow and his team not only brought her home but provided the support she needed to move forward. The physical chemistry between the two main characters didn’t hurt either. Complicated family and a mystery not yet solved, meant Morgan wasn’t afraid to reach out for a steadying hand or a reassuring pep talk. And Arrow? He was hooked on one of the strongest women he’d ever met so was never far away, wanting to be there for her.
This author knows how to write, well, almost anything. Dialogue, action, romance, suspense – they are blended together here with intriguing characters that range all over the good/bad guy map. Morgan and Arrow’s relationship moved at just the right pace as the danger surrounding them played out…
Another great addition to the series… ~Diane, 4 stars
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