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Ace Security #5
Claiming Sarah
A Wall Street Journal and Amazon Charts bestseller.
All defenses are down in the fifth Ace Security novel from New York Times bestselling author Susan Stoker.
Sarah Butler isn’t flattered. She’s angry and unnerved. She’s been getting intimate gifts from a man she barely knows. Nothing threatening yet, but there’s just a weird vibe she can’t ignore. Her recourse is Ace Security. Their self-defense lessons at Rock Hard Gym with a personal, hands-on instructor. One look at the bearded, tattooed, green-eyed alpha is enough to take Sarah’s breath away.
Cole Johnson is definitely the man for the job. He’s eager to train her. Eager to get closer. And when it comes to Sarah’s instincts, Cole knows she’s not imagining things. He’s also not imagining the intense attraction between them—and his desire to protect her is growing. But so are Sarah’s fears, the worst of which come true when she disappears.
Enlisting the help of Ace Security, Cole will stop at nothing to find the love of his life…before she vanishes forever.
All defenses are down in the fifth Ace Security novel from New York Times bestselling author Susan Stoker.
Sarah Butler isn’t flattered. She’s angry and unnerved. She’s been getting intimate gifts from a man she barely knows. Nothing threatening yet, but there’s just a weird vibe she can’t ignore. Her recourse is Ace Security. Their self-defense lessons at Rock Hard Gym with a personal, hands-on instructor. One look at the bearded, tattooed, green-eyed alpha is enough to take Sarah’s breath away.
Cole Johnson is definitely the man for the job. He’s eager to train her. Eager to get closer. And when it comes to Sarah’s instincts, Cole knows she’s not imagining things. He’s also not imagining the intense attraction between them—and his desire to protect her is growing. But so are Sarah’s fears, the worst of which come true when she disappears.
Enlisting the help of Ace Security, Cole will stop at nothing to find the love of his life…before she vanishes forever.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2019
2226 people are currently reading
2377 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 489 reviews
September 10, 2019
When Cole calls Sarah his angel, he isn't kidding. She sees the best in people. She gives and gives and lets people walk all over her because that's what 'they' need to do. She's all about making people feel good. She cares about everyone... including the man who keeps leaving her presents, hoping for forever, a forever she has no intention of giving him. When she finally gets fed up of her feelings of fear, she reaches out to a security agency, which then refers her to Cole for some self-defense training and whoever's after her will have to get through him first.
I loved the almost instant connection between Sarah and Cole. It was super sweet and then turned super hot. Yeah, I'm one of those romance readers who loves a great instalove story and this one turned into an awesome one. With a little suspense sprinkled in, a ton of insights from intriguing side characters, and plenty of heart, Claiming Sarah is an easy recommendation to make.
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I loved the almost instant connection between Sarah and Cole. It was super sweet and then turned super hot. Yeah, I'm one of those romance readers who loves a great instalove story and this one turned into an awesome one. With a little suspense sprinkled in, a ton of insights from intriguing side characters, and plenty of heart, Claiming Sarah is an easy recommendation to make.
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July 25, 2019
ARC received for review
So excited to see Cole, Felicity's BFF, get his own book. Sarah is a great addition to the Ace Security family and perfect for Cole. Lots of romance, hot sex, bad guy, and all the previous peeps on hand to help.
Thank you very much Ms. Stoker for making the pleading, sad face to your editor so you could write this book.
So excited to see Cole, Felicity's BFF, get his own book. Sarah is a great addition to the Ace Security family and perfect for Cole. Lots of romance, hot sex, bad guy, and all the previous peeps on hand to help.
Thank you very much Ms. Stoker for making the pleading, sad face to your editor so you could write this book.
August 21, 2019
Cole was way more than I was expecting. I never really got the feel of him as a side character in the other books in the series. I ended up liking him a lot. He was protective and really went after Sarah when he realized she was it for him. I love it when a man knows what he wants and goes for it.
You can't hate Sarah's character. Talk about one of the nicest heroines. I really loved the message her character brought. She hasn't exactly had the easiest life but her adoptive dad's raised her right. Who better to know how to handle hate than gay men who adopted a little girl. They taught her to always fight with kindness. It sounds cheesy but the author showed examples of this behavior in the story and I have to say, it takes a strong character to truly live that way. I want to be more like Sarah.
I've really enjoyed this series. The first book in the series is what introduced me to Susan Stoker and I am happy to have found another author I truly enjoy.
You can't hate Sarah's character. Talk about one of the nicest heroines. I really loved the message her character brought. She hasn't exactly had the easiest life but her adoptive dad's raised her right. Who better to know how to handle hate than gay men who adopted a little girl. They taught her to always fight with kindness. It sounds cheesy but the author showed examples of this behavior in the story and I have to say, it takes a strong character to truly live that way. I want to be more like Sarah.
I've really enjoyed this series. The first book in the series is what introduced me to Susan Stoker and I am happy to have found another author I truly enjoy.
September 10, 2019
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
CLAIMING SARAH (Ace Security Book 5) by Susan Stoker is the last romantic suspense book in the Ace Security series. This story does have crossover characters from the other books, but it is easily read as a standalone and makes me want to go back and read the others.
Sarah Butler is a nursing assistant who loves her job, but she is now having difficulty with the son of an ex-patient who keeps sending her intimate notes and gifts. There have been no threats, just a weird feeling on Sarah’s part, so the police and Ace Security do not believe there is a problem and just tell her to take self-defense classes at Rock Hard Gym and let them know if she receives an overt threat. When she shows up at the gym, she overhears the co-owner trying to get the receptionist to brush her off and she walks out.
When Cole Johnson realizes he just sent the “Sarah” that Ace Security sent his way, he runs out to apologize and try to get her to come back. Cole has an instant and intense attraction to Sarah; her gentleness and innocence make her his “angel”. Sarah also cannot explain why Cole makes her feel safe, but her fears disappear when he is around. Cole believes Sarah’s instincts and gets Ace Security working on her case as they become closer. Sarah has a premonition she will disappear and no one will come looking for her or be able to find her.
Sarah’s premonition becomes reality and Cole will stop at nothing to find his “angel”.
I loved everything about Sarah. She is sweet, loving and forgiving. I agree with Cole that she is a special person who needs to be protected and I wish there were more people like her in this world. Cole is a great hero for Sarah with his alpha attitude, rough edges, tattoos but a core of love and protectiveness for her. The sex scenes are explicit and steamin’ hot. I was very satisfied with the compassionate way Ms. Stoker handled the resolution of the climax of this story, also.
This is a suspenseful romantic suspense with a lot of heart and memorable characters.
CLAIMING SARAH (Ace Security Book 5) by Susan Stoker is the last romantic suspense book in the Ace Security series. This story does have crossover characters from the other books, but it is easily read as a standalone and makes me want to go back and read the others.
Sarah Butler is a nursing assistant who loves her job, but she is now having difficulty with the son of an ex-patient who keeps sending her intimate notes and gifts. There have been no threats, just a weird feeling on Sarah’s part, so the police and Ace Security do not believe there is a problem and just tell her to take self-defense classes at Rock Hard Gym and let them know if she receives an overt threat. When she shows up at the gym, she overhears the co-owner trying to get the receptionist to brush her off and she walks out.
When Cole Johnson realizes he just sent the “Sarah” that Ace Security sent his way, he runs out to apologize and try to get her to come back. Cole has an instant and intense attraction to Sarah; her gentleness and innocence make her his “angel”. Sarah also cannot explain why Cole makes her feel safe, but her fears disappear when he is around. Cole believes Sarah’s instincts and gets Ace Security working on her case as they become closer. Sarah has a premonition she will disappear and no one will come looking for her or be able to find her.
Sarah’s premonition becomes reality and Cole will stop at nothing to find his “angel”.
I loved everything about Sarah. She is sweet, loving and forgiving. I agree with Cole that she is a special person who needs to be protected and I wish there were more people like her in this world. Cole is a great hero for Sarah with his alpha attitude, rough edges, tattoos but a core of love and protectiveness for her. The sex scenes are explicit and steamin’ hot. I was very satisfied with the compassionate way Ms. Stoker handled the resolution of the climax of this story, also.
This is a suspenseful romantic suspense with a lot of heart and memorable characters.
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September 10, 2019LIVE!
He agreed to teach her self-defense. But is it enough to guard their hearts and their lives?
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He agreed to teach her self-defense. But is it enough to guard their hearts and their lives?
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2WfpoEr
Audio: https://adbl.co/30JoSQR
Paperback: https://amzn.to/2MtFXrz
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2GhxIxV
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2WzcHo2
Amazon DE: https://amzn.to/2HJBGSk
Amazon FR: https://amzn.to/2MILwCw
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*Kindle Unlimited
September 17, 2019
I'm rounding up a little here.
Look, every book has 'problematic' elements, I know and accept that. It's fiction, it's one person's preferences and biases, and I am not the PC police. But there are 'problematic' elements in this book that I couldn't ignore.
The hero of this story is the stereotypical obsessive/possessive 'alpha male', which I knew before cracking the spine because that's this author's modus operandi. But here, the heroine is being pursued by a stalker, and it's the hero's *job* to teach her how to protect herself, but then he acts in seriously stalker-like fashion himself. And there is a scene of really dubious consent It just really rubbed me wrong when juxtaposed with her vulnerability in light of her stalker situation.
Also, and this is where I will get nit picky, the author needs a real editor, not just a beta reader. There are several continuity errors that negatively affect the storyline.
Look, every book has 'problematic' elements, I know and accept that. It's fiction, it's one person's preferences and biases, and I am not the PC police. But there are 'problematic' elements in this book that I couldn't ignore.
The hero of this story is the stereotypical obsessive/possessive 'alpha male', which I knew before cracking the spine because that's this author's modus operandi. But here, the heroine is being pursued by a stalker, and it's the hero's *job* to teach her how to protect herself, but then he acts in seriously stalker-like fashion himself. And there is a scene of really dubious consent It just really rubbed me wrong when juxtaposed with her vulnerability in light of her stalker situation.
Also, and this is where I will get nit picky, the author needs a real editor, not just a beta reader. There are several continuity errors that negatively affect the storyline.
March 22, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
This book changed my opinion of Cole , what a sweetheart.
Sarah is so sweet she’s sickly at times but i could get past that .
The two are a great match and the book brilliant.
💋💋
This book changed my opinion of Cole , what a sweetheart.
Sarah is so sweet she’s sickly at times but i could get past that .
The two are a great match and the book brilliant.
November 16, 2019
I reeeaallly wanted to like this book as much as everyone else did. I went way past the point of boredom to see if it got better and it only got cringier, unfortunately.
Sarah is a CNA whose patient’s son has formed an obsession over. Socially awkward and a little slow, he has been sending her creepy gifts and letters. Sarah begins self defense lessons at a gym to try to protect herself, before she eventually disappears and Cole has to find her. Sounds good, right? It should have been... However, there seemed to be a lot of off-putting and problematic issues in this book.
1. Cole starts hitting on her during their first gym lesson (of which he’s the owner) and first real meeting. It’s gross and unprofessional, regardless of whether she finds him attractive. Could he not at least wait until she’s done paying him to do his job? She even discusses how fast and weird it is
“I’d like to get to know you better, Sarah. Outside of your self-defense lessons. I want to watch you make other people’s days brighter.”
“Why?”
“What do you mean, why?” he asked.
“Just that. I mean, look at you . . . then look at me. I’d bet a hundred bucks I’m not the kind of woman you normally date. Do you ask out every woman you train? It just seems . . . fast.”
2. When she doesn’t immediately agree, he begins badgering her, even using her delay of “if I say no, things could get weird” as persuasion to say yes. The whole conversation is gross and manipulative and left a bad taste in my mouth. What if she hadn’t found him attractive? He comes off no better than the creep who won’t take no for an answer as the reason she’s getting self defense lessons in the first place.
Sarah licked her lips nervously, and his gaze immediately followed the movement. Cole persisted. “Say you’ll go out with me, Sarah.”
“I thought I was here to figure out how to defend myself.”
“You are. And we’ll get to that. Agreeing to go out with me in no way affects whether or not I’ll teach you some basic moves that will allow you to get away from someone and get to safety.”
“But if I say no, things could get weird.”
“Then say yes,” Cole cajoled. “I swear you’ve got nothing to fear from me. I’ll even get references if that will make you feel safer.”
Ew.
3. He’s incredibly overbearing, frequently does things without asking and only tells her what he thinks she should know about.
Sarah could only gape at him. “How’d we go from me wanting some tips on protecting myself to having Ace Security investigating Owen and you and me hanging out at each other’s houses?” He smiled at her again, but didn’t answer her question.
Or
“Thank you.”
“Stop thanking me,” Cole said sternly. “I’m going to get this guy off your back so I’ve got all your attention. I’m a selfish bastard, and I don’t want you wondering when and where he’s going to pop out. I want you to concentrate only on me and our relationship.” That doesn’t sound overbearing at all...
Or
“Sarah? Are you busy tomorrow night?”
“Me?” she asked, confused. Ryder and the others chuckled. “Yeah, you. You want to do a girls’ night with Grace, Alexis, Bailey, and Felicity?” She could only continue to frown at Ryder.
“Yeah, she does,” Cole told his friend. “She’ll be with me, so just shoot me the details, and I’ll make sure she’s there.”
Is the woman incapable of answering for herself?
4. Their relationship seems all about him.
“It’s just me,” Sarah told him. “I don’t need a lot of room.” His gaze found hers, and it looked like he was hesitating to speak.
“What?” she asked.
“I want to say something, but I have a feeling it’s too soon.”
Now she was really curious. “It’s okay. Say it.”
“Fine . . . but remember, you asked for it. It’s not just you who will be in here. I’m planning on spending as much time with you as you’ll let me, just as I want you at my place as much as I can get you there. I’m not opposed to a queen-size bed, which will fit in here without any issues, because I like to snuggle when I sleep. But a king-size bed won’t fit, not without totally overwhelming the space. And you’ll need a big TV, and a comfortable couch. Once you get all that furniture in here, it might be cramped. And I like to cook. I’m not that great at it, but it’s fun to try. The kitchen is functional, but I’ve seen the layouts of the two-and three-bedroom places here, and the kitchens are much bigger.”
Hear all that? Big bed because HE likes to cuddle. Big tv for HIM to watch, comfortable couch for HIM to sit on. Nice kitchen cause HE likes to cook. I’m sorry, whose apartment have we been standing in? Cause they’ve known each other like a week at this point.
5. He treats her like some weird Mary Sue, “Saint Sarah” schtick and it’s just WEIRD. He’s always going on about how good and perfect and kind and generous she is and how he needs that to “balance him out”. He seems more in love with the idea of her saintliness than actually her.
She needed someone to make sure no one took advantage of her kind soul, and he needed her to balance out his rough edges.”
Or
“But together, you and me just make sense. You’re the light, and I’m the darkness. You’re everything good, and I’m walking the fine line of being an asshole all the time. We balance each other out.”
6. Now, where do we get to see this ultimate badness, these rough edges, this darkness in him? I’ll let him tell it in his own cringy words...
“But the words got stuck in his throat. It was his turn to panic. He felt as if so much was at stake, and he didn’t want to do anything that would spook her or make her have second thoughts. “I . . . I’m too outspoken.” The words poured out of him. Once started, he couldn’t stop. “I’ve never given money to a homeless person in my life. I live in an apartment because I have no desire to do yard work whatsoever. I don’t know the names of my neighbors because I’ve never tried to get to know them. One time, when a couple of Boy Scouts knocked on my door, I pretended I wasn’t home so I didn’t have to buy any popcorn from them. And I only gave Francesca a free membership to the gym so I could get free food. I’m selfish and an asshole.” Cole felt sick. He didn’t want Sarah to know any of this shit, but he also didn’t want her to find out later how fucked up he was and leave him. “I probably don’t tip enough, and I always speed. I tend to see the worst in people, especially after what happened to Felicity. Most kids scare me to death, and I’m ashamed of the number of nights I’ve had ice cream for dinner.”
He opened his mouth to continue, but Sarah put her hand over his lips, effectively shutting him up.
“You aren’t going to convince me that you aren’t a good person, Cole. So you might as well stop.”
Hear that? He’s literally nauseated about her finding out “how fucked up he is” because he eats ice cream for dinner, doesn’t like yard work, and hides so he doesn’t have to buy things from people who knock on his door. Satan himself, in the flesh 😂.
Honestly, I just couldn’t any more. 2 stars for the interesting, but unrealized premise.
Sarah is a CNA whose patient’s son has formed an obsession over. Socially awkward and a little slow, he has been sending her creepy gifts and letters. Sarah begins self defense lessons at a gym to try to protect herself, before she eventually disappears and Cole has to find her. Sounds good, right? It should have been... However, there seemed to be a lot of off-putting and problematic issues in this book.
1. Cole starts hitting on her during their first gym lesson (of which he’s the owner) and first real meeting. It’s gross and unprofessional, regardless of whether she finds him attractive. Could he not at least wait until she’s done paying him to do his job? She even discusses how fast and weird it is
“I’d like to get to know you better, Sarah. Outside of your self-defense lessons. I want to watch you make other people’s days brighter.”
“Why?”
“What do you mean, why?” he asked.
“Just that. I mean, look at you . . . then look at me. I’d bet a hundred bucks I’m not the kind of woman you normally date. Do you ask out every woman you train? It just seems . . . fast.”
2. When she doesn’t immediately agree, he begins badgering her, even using her delay of “if I say no, things could get weird” as persuasion to say yes. The whole conversation is gross and manipulative and left a bad taste in my mouth. What if she hadn’t found him attractive? He comes off no better than the creep who won’t take no for an answer as the reason she’s getting self defense lessons in the first place.
Sarah licked her lips nervously, and his gaze immediately followed the movement. Cole persisted. “Say you’ll go out with me, Sarah.”
“I thought I was here to figure out how to defend myself.”
“You are. And we’ll get to that. Agreeing to go out with me in no way affects whether or not I’ll teach you some basic moves that will allow you to get away from someone and get to safety.”
“But if I say no, things could get weird.”
“Then say yes,” Cole cajoled. “I swear you’ve got nothing to fear from me. I’ll even get references if that will make you feel safer.”
Ew.
3. He’s incredibly overbearing, frequently does things without asking and only tells her what he thinks she should know about.
Sarah could only gape at him. “How’d we go from me wanting some tips on protecting myself to having Ace Security investigating Owen and you and me hanging out at each other’s houses?” He smiled at her again, but didn’t answer her question.
Or
“Thank you.”
“Stop thanking me,” Cole said sternly. “I’m going to get this guy off your back so I’ve got all your attention. I’m a selfish bastard, and I don’t want you wondering when and where he’s going to pop out. I want you to concentrate only on me and our relationship.” That doesn’t sound overbearing at all...
Or
“Sarah? Are you busy tomorrow night?”
“Me?” she asked, confused. Ryder and the others chuckled. “Yeah, you. You want to do a girls’ night with Grace, Alexis, Bailey, and Felicity?” She could only continue to frown at Ryder.
“Yeah, she does,” Cole told his friend. “She’ll be with me, so just shoot me the details, and I’ll make sure she’s there.”
Is the woman incapable of answering for herself?
4. Their relationship seems all about him.
“It’s just me,” Sarah told him. “I don’t need a lot of room.” His gaze found hers, and it looked like he was hesitating to speak.
“What?” she asked.
“I want to say something, but I have a feeling it’s too soon.”
Now she was really curious. “It’s okay. Say it.”
“Fine . . . but remember, you asked for it. It’s not just you who will be in here. I’m planning on spending as much time with you as you’ll let me, just as I want you at my place as much as I can get you there. I’m not opposed to a queen-size bed, which will fit in here without any issues, because I like to snuggle when I sleep. But a king-size bed won’t fit, not without totally overwhelming the space. And you’ll need a big TV, and a comfortable couch. Once you get all that furniture in here, it might be cramped. And I like to cook. I’m not that great at it, but it’s fun to try. The kitchen is functional, but I’ve seen the layouts of the two-and three-bedroom places here, and the kitchens are much bigger.”
Hear all that? Big bed because HE likes to cuddle. Big tv for HIM to watch, comfortable couch for HIM to sit on. Nice kitchen cause HE likes to cook. I’m sorry, whose apartment have we been standing in? Cause they’ve known each other like a week at this point.
5. He treats her like some weird Mary Sue, “Saint Sarah” schtick and it’s just WEIRD. He’s always going on about how good and perfect and kind and generous she is and how he needs that to “balance him out”. He seems more in love with the idea of her saintliness than actually her.
She needed someone to make sure no one took advantage of her kind soul, and he needed her to balance out his rough edges.”
Or
“But together, you and me just make sense. You’re the light, and I’m the darkness. You’re everything good, and I’m walking the fine line of being an asshole all the time. We balance each other out.”
6. Now, where do we get to see this ultimate badness, these rough edges, this darkness in him? I’ll let him tell it in his own cringy words...
“But the words got stuck in his throat. It was his turn to panic. He felt as if so much was at stake, and he didn’t want to do anything that would spook her or make her have second thoughts. “I . . . I’m too outspoken.” The words poured out of him. Once started, he couldn’t stop. “I’ve never given money to a homeless person in my life. I live in an apartment because I have no desire to do yard work whatsoever. I don’t know the names of my neighbors because I’ve never tried to get to know them. One time, when a couple of Boy Scouts knocked on my door, I pretended I wasn’t home so I didn’t have to buy any popcorn from them. And I only gave Francesca a free membership to the gym so I could get free food. I’m selfish and an asshole.” Cole felt sick. He didn’t want Sarah to know any of this shit, but he also didn’t want her to find out later how fucked up he was and leave him. “I probably don’t tip enough, and I always speed. I tend to see the worst in people, especially after what happened to Felicity. Most kids scare me to death, and I’m ashamed of the number of nights I’ve had ice cream for dinner.”
He opened his mouth to continue, but Sarah put her hand over his lips, effectively shutting him up.
“You aren’t going to convince me that you aren’t a good person, Cole. So you might as well stop.”
Hear that? He’s literally nauseated about her finding out “how fucked up he is” because he eats ice cream for dinner, doesn’t like yard work, and hides so he doesn’t have to buy things from people who knock on his door. Satan himself, in the flesh 😂.
Honestly, I just couldn’t any more. 2 stars for the interesting, but unrealized premise.
September 6, 2019
She’s been getting intimate gifts from a man she barely knows and while there’s nothing threatening, there is a weird vibe that Sarah Butler can’t ignore. Her only recourse is the self-defense lessons at Rock Hard Gym with a personal, hands-on instructor. He is definitely the man for the job, Cole Johnson is not only eager to train her, he’s eager to get closer. He knows she’s not imagining things and he’s not imagining their intense attraction. When she disappears, Cole enlists the help of Ace Security and he will stop at nothing to find the love of his life… before she vanishes forever.
This engaging suspense has the sweetest couple that makes readers smile and sigh in delight. The characters are strong and easily draw readers into their story and their chemistry is awesome which makes readers believe that anything is possible when comes to falling in love. Sarah and Cole are made for each other and while the relationship has all the emotional angst once would expect from the situation, the romance is sweet and one readers can really enjoy.
The plot is steady paced and the suspense builds throughout, keeping readers glued to the pages. Some unexpected and surprising twists keeps readers on their toes as the story unfolds and readers begin to wonder just what this bad guy has in mind. The conclusion of this story is a bit unbelievable in how sweet the heroine is but it also speaks of her humanity and readers have no problem fitting it with her characters which makes it quite fitting for this thrilling romance.
This engaging suspense has the sweetest couple that makes readers smile and sigh in delight. The characters are strong and easily draw readers into their story and their chemistry is awesome which makes readers believe that anything is possible when comes to falling in love. Sarah and Cole are made for each other and while the relationship has all the emotional angst once would expect from the situation, the romance is sweet and one readers can really enjoy.
The plot is steady paced and the suspense builds throughout, keeping readers glued to the pages. Some unexpected and surprising twists keeps readers on their toes as the story unfolds and readers begin to wonder just what this bad guy has in mind. The conclusion of this story is a bit unbelievable in how sweet the heroine is but it also speaks of her humanity and readers have no problem fitting it with her characters which makes it quite fitting for this thrilling romance.
August 10, 2019
Sarah Butler is angry and uneasy because of the gifts she keeps getting from a man she barely knows. After getting no help after reporting these incidents to the police she seeks help from Ace security. Logan Anderson recommends that she go for self-defense lessons at Rock Hard Gym with hands-on instructor Cole Johnson. Her first encounter with Cole leaves her unimpressed.
Once Cole makes amends to Sarah for his abruptness he knows he is the right one to help her with self-defense training. Talking with Sarah Cole is positive that her instincts about her stalker are correct. There is a strong attraction between them that neither tries to deny. And when Sarah's worst fears become a reality and she disappears Cole does everything within his powers to keep his promise and find her. With the help of Ace Security he lets nothing get in his way of finding the woman he loves.
This looks like it's the final novel for this series. Would love to see another spin-off or a continuation.
Once Cole makes amends to Sarah for his abruptness he knows he is the right one to help her with self-defense training. Talking with Sarah Cole is positive that her instincts about her stalker are correct. There is a strong attraction between them that neither tries to deny. And when Sarah's worst fears become a reality and she disappears Cole does everything within his powers to keep his promise and find her. With the help of Ace Security he lets nothing get in his way of finding the woman he loves.
This looks like it's the final novel for this series. Would love to see another spin-off or a continuation.
July 30, 2019
This is the last book in the Ace Security series and I highly recommend you read the previous books before reading this one or you may be lost on some of the characters and what happened to them. In this one we get Cole's story-which I know a lot of us were really hoping for! Cole co-owns the gym with his best friend and Sarah has been referred there in order to learn some self defense. She believes she has a stalker but the police are not taking her seriously and she doesn't know what to do or where to turn. Cole is attracted to Sarah and the way she see's the world from the start. He knows that he is the man that can protect her and stand in front of her so she can continue to be the person she is meant to be. But he has to keep her safe in order for them to have their happy ending.
I was so excited when this book was announced and that Cole would get a HEA too! And I absolutely loved this one, almost as much as Alexis's book!! Sarah is this woman who continually see's the good in people and I loved that about her. I loved the snippets you get for her family and her father's, as well as the fact that this was addressed in the first place! I have always loved Cole's character in the previous book's and he just made me love him even more in this book. The way he treat's Sarah and the things that are happening to her just make him that much more lovable. They perfectly compliment each other. I am sad that this series has come to an end but this was the perfect way for it to end. All the character's get their HEA and it leaves you smiling blissfully because of how their stories end up.
I was so excited when this book was announced and that Cole would get a HEA too! And I absolutely loved this one, almost as much as Alexis's book!! Sarah is this woman who continually see's the good in people and I loved that about her. I loved the snippets you get for her family and her father's, as well as the fact that this was addressed in the first place! I have always loved Cole's character in the previous book's and he just made me love him even more in this book. The way he treat's Sarah and the things that are happening to her just make him that much more lovable. They perfectly compliment each other. I am sad that this series has come to an end but this was the perfect way for it to end. All the character's get their HEA and it leaves you smiling blissfully because of how their stories end up.
July 25, 2019
It's okay.
Typical Susan Stoker Hero, protective, caring and selfless.
He is a bit mean to her at the start, but sorts it.
Heroine has someone leaving her gifts so needs Ace security.
Hero says he hasn't dated in forever, heroine hasn't for about 4 years.
There are appearances from previous characters and couples in the series with references to their stories so best to read the series in order not to spoil it.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
No cheating.
Stalker issue but nothing sexual, he has developmental issues.
Bit patronising but a safe read for those looking for devoted Hero, non manwhore.
Bit insta, I love you and talk of babies was very quick.
HEA.
Epilogue.
Typical Susan Stoker Hero, protective, caring and selfless.
He is a bit mean to her at the start, but sorts it.
Heroine has someone leaving her gifts so needs Ace security.
Hero says he hasn't dated in forever, heroine hasn't for about 4 years.
There are appearances from previous characters and couples in the series with references to their stories so best to read the series in order not to spoil it.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
No cheating.
Stalker issue but nothing sexual, he has developmental issues.
Bit patronising but a safe read for those looking for devoted Hero, non manwhore.
Bit insta, I love you and talk of babies was very quick.
HEA.
Epilogue.
July 25, 2019
Great contemporary romance read. I loved how the characters evolved and the story line was great as well. This was my first time reading this author, but definitely will not be the last. Overall a great quick read.
August 3, 2020
OMG I loved this story so much. I have been waiting and waiting for this book to come out. I am really sad it's the last book in the series but it was an amazing end to a great series.
I loved Sarah she was the perfect heroine for Cole Johnson.
Sarah has a been receiving gifts from a man she barely knows. She is not happy and is scared. He has not been threatening her yet but her got is telling her something is not right and she can't just ignore it. So she goes to Ace Security and they suggest self defense lessons at Rock Hard Gym
Cole is one of the owners of Rock Hard Gym and he is the right man for the job. He is happy to train her and wants to get closer to her. Cole trusts Sarah's gut and he wants to protect her.
With help from Ace Security Cole will do whatever it takes to keep Sarah safe.
I can't say enough how much I love Susan Stokers books I read them as soon as I get them and I can't stop reading them until I finish. She writes real characters with flaws and problems and emotions that you get invested in. They feel real and you want to know what happens to them. I have re-read her books to many times to count. I highly recommend this series and this book.
I loved Sarah she was the perfect heroine for Cole Johnson.
Sarah has a been receiving gifts from a man she barely knows. She is not happy and is scared. He has not been threatening her yet but her got is telling her something is not right and she can't just ignore it. So she goes to Ace Security and they suggest self defense lessons at Rock Hard Gym
Cole is one of the owners of Rock Hard Gym and he is the right man for the job. He is happy to train her and wants to get closer to her. Cole trusts Sarah's gut and he wants to protect her.
With help from Ace Security Cole will do whatever it takes to keep Sarah safe.
I can't say enough how much I love Susan Stokers books I read them as soon as I get them and I can't stop reading them until I finish. She writes real characters with flaws and problems and emotions that you get invested in. They feel real and you want to know what happens to them. I have re-read her books to many times to count. I highly recommend this series and this book.
September 12, 2019
Do you believe in Kismet? Or Karma? Devine intervention? 7th houses and Aquarius? Murphy’s Law? Stepping on cracks? Black cats? Eh, it doesn’t matter. I do. (In all of it—just not all at the same time)
So, the morning I sat down to open Claiming Sarah on my kindle, I detoured to Pinterest. Just for a minute. I was gonna be quick. Kismet waved her magic wand (or something) and a new favorite pie appeared on my home board. An Upside-down Apple Pie recipe. Yeah, that’s right. Upside-down. Game changing pie my friends. I pinned that beauty and switched over to Claiming Sarah.
I finished Claiming Sarah before lunch. It’s just that good. It’s the 5th book in the Ace Security Series and like the title implies, it’s about Sarah...and Cole. Cole is the tat-blasted hunk that runs the gym and is gonna teach little Miss Sarah self-defense. And that’s how you get trapped in the rabbit hole of a Susan Stoker book.
Now, let me tell you why I mentioned the awesome Upside-down Apple Pie. Nearly everyone is familiar with apple pie. It’s America’s dessert for Pete’s sake! It’s everything good about dessert: pure sweetness. It can trigger your ‘home’ and ‘heart’ feels. Apple pie has the power to snap you back to the past—grandma’s kitchen, picnics in the park, holidays...wherever your home and heart are. Claiming Sarah is apple pie. But not just apple pie. It’s an Upside-down Apple Pie. It’s got all that good sweetness wrapped up in Sarah. She’s good. She’s home. She’s heart. And Cole knows it. He even has to chase after it for a minute. So, if Sarah is the apple pie, Cole is the upside down part. He’s the ooey-gooey-buttery-cinammony-brown sugary-pecan topping oozing down the sides. He’s delicious. He’s sinful. He’s why you lick the plate. Seriously, the sauce (I mean, Cole) will make you praise the 7th house and sing songs to Aquarius. Karma and Murphy’s Law came together and brought you a Susan Stoker story filled with such goodness you’ll know you’re home.
Claiming Sarah isn’t super angsty or dark. So, if you’re worried about that, brush those crumbs aside. Cole is and always has been a steadfast businessman, friend, and in his own book, a trustworthy lover and partner. And Sarah is everything we aspire to be: sweetness, reliably scrumptious, and generous (almost to fault). She’s something you want to hold onto. And protect.
This book is like coming home. Which is fitting as it’s the 5th in the Ace series. It’s the end. Like a dessert after a 4 book-course meal. Just like an apple pie. An Upside-down Apple Pie.
And if, after you finish Claiming Sarah, you need a dessert—here’s the link to for that pie. 😆😉
https://simpleandseasonal.com/upside-...
So, the morning I sat down to open Claiming Sarah on my kindle, I detoured to Pinterest. Just for a minute. I was gonna be quick. Kismet waved her magic wand (or something) and a new favorite pie appeared on my home board. An Upside-down Apple Pie recipe. Yeah, that’s right. Upside-down. Game changing pie my friends. I pinned that beauty and switched over to Claiming Sarah.
I finished Claiming Sarah before lunch. It’s just that good. It’s the 5th book in the Ace Security Series and like the title implies, it’s about Sarah...and Cole. Cole is the tat-blasted hunk that runs the gym and is gonna teach little Miss Sarah self-defense. And that’s how you get trapped in the rabbit hole of a Susan Stoker book.
Now, let me tell you why I mentioned the awesome Upside-down Apple Pie. Nearly everyone is familiar with apple pie. It’s America’s dessert for Pete’s sake! It’s everything good about dessert: pure sweetness. It can trigger your ‘home’ and ‘heart’ feels. Apple pie has the power to snap you back to the past—grandma’s kitchen, picnics in the park, holidays...wherever your home and heart are. Claiming Sarah is apple pie. But not just apple pie. It’s an Upside-down Apple Pie. It’s got all that good sweetness wrapped up in Sarah. She’s good. She’s home. She’s heart. And Cole knows it. He even has to chase after it for a minute. So, if Sarah is the apple pie, Cole is the upside down part. He’s the ooey-gooey-buttery-cinammony-brown sugary-pecan topping oozing down the sides. He’s delicious. He’s sinful. He’s why you lick the plate. Seriously, the sauce (I mean, Cole) will make you praise the 7th house and sing songs to Aquarius. Karma and Murphy’s Law came together and brought you a Susan Stoker story filled with such goodness you’ll know you’re home.
Claiming Sarah isn’t super angsty or dark. So, if you’re worried about that, brush those crumbs aside. Cole is and always has been a steadfast businessman, friend, and in his own book, a trustworthy lover and partner. And Sarah is everything we aspire to be: sweetness, reliably scrumptious, and generous (almost to fault). She’s something you want to hold onto. And protect.
This book is like coming home. Which is fitting as it’s the 5th in the Ace series. It’s the end. Like a dessert after a 4 book-course meal. Just like an apple pie. An Upside-down Apple Pie.
And if, after you finish Claiming Sarah, you need a dessert—here’s the link to for that pie. 😆😉
https://simpleandseasonal.com/upside-...
September 22, 2019
We all have them. At least I think we do... I mean I have them, and you probably do too...
What am I babbling about? Go to authors. Those authors that you wait incessantly for their new release and go back to their books time and again because they're THAT GOOD. Maybe it's the author that first got you hooked on romance books. Maybe it's an author that was recommended to you by your book bestie. Or maybe like me you just stumbled upon them, not knowing the goodness that was in store. That's how I found the illustrious Susan Stoker. By accident or luck. However you want to see it. I fell into the rabbit hole and have not come out since.
Dragging myself back from that tangent, let me get to Ms. Stoker's latest and greatest Claiming Sarah. This is the 5th and sadly last book in the Ace Security series. And hottie Cole is up to bat!! Sorry about mixing metaphors, but they work ;p Cole is the co-owner of Rock Hard Gym and best friends with Felicity (from Claiming Felicity). He's always known that people looked at him and only saw what they wanted. The good looking, muscled and tattooed gym owner. But when he meets Sarah, his newest client, he immediately knows there is something different about her and that she will change his life. Sarah's first meeting with Cole is not auspicious. She overhears him trying to blow off their appointment. But fate, karma, whatever you want to call it, entangle these two and their romance blooms.
I try with each review to give a brief synopsis of the goodness encapsulated in each book. The richness of the characters, the action/angst/drama, the fabulous writing that pulls you into the fabulousness of Susan Stoker. To me, her books are like a prism, Different facets from every angle, the ever-changing colors at every turn and the beauty that is each and every book. I read A LOT. So I am always looking for books that have that perfect trifecta. Good characters, plot, and writing. And I am happy to report that Susan Stoker delivers that EVERY TIME.
What am I babbling about? Go to authors. Those authors that you wait incessantly for their new release and go back to their books time and again because they're THAT GOOD. Maybe it's the author that first got you hooked on romance books. Maybe it's an author that was recommended to you by your book bestie. Or maybe like me you just stumbled upon them, not knowing the goodness that was in store. That's how I found the illustrious Susan Stoker. By accident or luck. However you want to see it. I fell into the rabbit hole and have not come out since.
Dragging myself back from that tangent, let me get to Ms. Stoker's latest and greatest Claiming Sarah. This is the 5th and sadly last book in the Ace Security series. And hottie Cole is up to bat!! Sorry about mixing metaphors, but they work ;p Cole is the co-owner of Rock Hard Gym and best friends with Felicity (from Claiming Felicity). He's always known that people looked at him and only saw what they wanted. The good looking, muscled and tattooed gym owner. But when he meets Sarah, his newest client, he immediately knows there is something different about her and that she will change his life. Sarah's first meeting with Cole is not auspicious. She overhears him trying to blow off their appointment. But fate, karma, whatever you want to call it, entangle these two and their romance blooms.
I try with each review to give a brief synopsis of the goodness encapsulated in each book. The richness of the characters, the action/angst/drama, the fabulous writing that pulls you into the fabulousness of Susan Stoker. To me, her books are like a prism, Different facets from every angle, the ever-changing colors at every turn and the beauty that is each and every book. I read A LOT. So I am always looking for books that have that perfect trifecta. Good characters, plot, and writing. And I am happy to report that Susan Stoker delivers that EVERY TIME.
September 10, 2019
Claiming Sarah (Ace Security #5) by Susan Stoker
5 stars
M/F Thriller, Romance
Triggers: Stalking, Kidnapping, death, mental illness
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Sarah is a nurse who loves what she does. She loves helping her patients and their family. But when strange gifts start showing up at work and her house, she knows that she should probably learn how to defend herself.
Cole is a gym owner, but also a close friend of Logan Anderson. When Logan asks him to help someone who needs self defense training, Cole agrees without question. But, Cole's first impression to Sarah is less than ideal.
I like that this story was less go go go and more learning about the characters and watching their relationship grow and change. It still has action and the romance isn't in your face. There is less trauma in this story, but the message is similar. I liked how Sarah's character wanted to see the best in everyone.
Overall, I'm sad to see this series end. I'll miss these guys. But, it was a gentle story to end on and it was very well done.
5 stars
M/F Thriller, Romance
Triggers: Stalking, Kidnapping, death, mental illness
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Sarah is a nurse who loves what she does. She loves helping her patients and their family. But when strange gifts start showing up at work and her house, she knows that she should probably learn how to defend herself.
Cole is a gym owner, but also a close friend of Logan Anderson. When Logan asks him to help someone who needs self defense training, Cole agrees without question. But, Cole's first impression to Sarah is less than ideal.
I like that this story was less go go go and more learning about the characters and watching their relationship grow and change. It still has action and the romance isn't in your face. There is less trauma in this story, but the message is similar. I liked how Sarah's character wanted to see the best in everyone.
Overall, I'm sad to see this series end. I'll miss these guys. But, it was a gentle story to end on and it was very well done.
September 14, 2019
Sarah has a problem and folks think she's just overreacting. A former patient's son is sending her gifts and 'love' letters, even though she's told him to stop. The police just told her to be careful, but there's nothing they could do as there were no obvious threats.
Frustrated she went to Ace Security, only to find they are very expensive. they did however recommend getting self-defense classes at Rock Hard Gym.
Cole almost blows this first meeting thanks to the receptionist not closing his office door, but he manages to salvage the relationship.
As Owen's gifts continue and get weirder, Ace Security tries to find him to no avail.
Talk about edge of your seat, the building tension was incredible. Cole and Sarah get to know each other and things heat up in more ways than one.
I couldn't put this book down, the story wouldn't allow it.
Frustrated she went to Ace Security, only to find they are very expensive. they did however recommend getting self-defense classes at Rock Hard Gym.
Cole almost blows this first meeting thanks to the receptionist not closing his office door, but he manages to salvage the relationship.
As Owen's gifts continue and get weirder, Ace Security tries to find him to no avail.
Talk about edge of your seat, the building tension was incredible. Cole and Sarah get to know each other and things heat up in more ways than one.
I couldn't put this book down, the story wouldn't allow it.
August 21, 2019
I would love to be more like Sarah. Sarah is a kind, warm, forgiving and generous type of woman. She sees the good in people and likes to think that things will work out. However after receiving scary notes and gifts she is beginning to fear for her safety. She makes a call that will change her life.
Cole is a man who owns a gym and while he likes to watch people better themselves however the first meeting with Sarah doesn't go as planned and he is forced to fix it immediately. How Sarah responds to Cole interests him and he is smitten.
This book was suspenseful in a very different way. It doesn't take long to both Sarah, Cole and us as the reader to find out who the stalker is. However, its the unknown of if/when he will strike that makes this book different. In most books, they are just a faceless, nameless person but in this book they are front and center.
The compassion that Sarah feels for the people around her is amazing. There is a section in the book that talks about how Sarah and Cole complement each other. Sarah sees the light where Cole sees more dark and because of this they are both protected.
I have really enjoyed this series. I also liked when the guys showed up from the previous books and we get a "where are they now" type of scene.
Cole is a man who owns a gym and while he likes to watch people better themselves however the first meeting with Sarah doesn't go as planned and he is forced to fix it immediately. How Sarah responds to Cole interests him and he is smitten.
This book was suspenseful in a very different way. It doesn't take long to both Sarah, Cole and us as the reader to find out who the stalker is. However, its the unknown of if/when he will strike that makes this book different. In most books, they are just a faceless, nameless person but in this book they are front and center.
The compassion that Sarah feels for the people around her is amazing. There is a section in the book that talks about how Sarah and Cole complement each other. Sarah sees the light where Cole sees more dark and because of this they are both protected.
I have really enjoyed this series. I also liked when the guys showed up from the previous books and we get a "where are they now" type of scene.
August 25, 2019
I am so happy Cole got his own book! I loved everything about this book from beginning to end. What a wonderful way to wrap up this series. Susan Stoker is a master at romantic suspense giving me everything I could possibly want in a story. Cole is an amazing and protective hero, not to mention sexy, and everything Sarah needs in her life whether she knew it or not. And Sarah is just perfect for him too in so many ways. I love them together! When Sarah seeks out help for self defense lessons because of a stalker she is not sure how to take at this point, she finds herself absorbed into an amazing group of men and women who want nothing but to help her feel safe and start living her life again. Cole and Sarah both fit in so well with the Ace Security family and I was happy to get more of them in this story as well.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC.
September 18, 2019
Claiming Sarah by Susan Stoker is book 5 in the Ace Security Series. This is the story of Cole Johnson and Sarah Butler. I have yet read the previous book, so for me this was a standalone book. Sarah is a nursing assistant who has a admire that is sending her intimate gifts. There is not threat in the gifts but it makes Sarah feel uncomfortable and worried that this person can turn ugly. So she goes to Ace Security where they tell her that she should take self-defense classes to help with her safety. Ace Security sends her to Rock Hard Gym to train with Cole. Of course there is some wrong missteps at first with them but both feel a strong attraction. Cole sees the soft caring women that Sarah is which brings out the protective alpha male in him.
September 19, 2019
THE COVER ISN'T THE BOOK!!!
Although Cole looks scary, he's great to have in your corner. I like it writing because it addresses a lot of serious issues in a format you would not expect.
Although Cole looks scary, he's great to have in your corner. I like it writing because it addresses a lot of serious issues in a format you would not expect.
September 16, 2019
Claiming Sarah had me from the first page! Susan Stoker is the best at suspenseful, military romance and this is my new favorite in the Ace Security series. Each one can be read as a stand-alone, but definitely more enjoyable when read in order since previous characters tend to make cameos. My heart went out to Sarah Butler, as she tries to remain strong and not dwell on the overwhelming gifts and presence of a man who's become more than enamored with her. She turns to Cole Johnson for self defense lessons, but they quickly finds themselves falling hard for each other. When the unthinkable happens, you won't be able to stop reading until the very end. I loved seeing Felicity back in this one as well. The fifth and BEST book in the Ace Security series!
August 29, 2019
I loved this book. Cole is alpha male without being a jackass. Sarah is “Sweet”. Some say she is too sweet for her own good. But Sarah is strong in her own way. She always looks for the better in every person she meets in her life, which made Cole take a second look at people too.
I was intrigued with the way the author presented Sarah’s adopted parents. It brought to light that every child wants to be loved and that love comes in any form. This book also touches on a person with developmental issues and as a reminder to not make a quick judgement on such a person. I highly recommend to read. I’ve never been disappointed in any Susan Stoker book.
I was intrigued with the way the author presented Sarah’s adopted parents. It brought to light that every child wants to be loved and that love comes in any form. This book also touches on a person with developmental issues and as a reminder to not make a quick judgement on such a person. I highly recommend to read. I’ve never been disappointed in any Susan Stoker book.
September 11, 2019
4 Star Review of Claiming Sarah (Ace Security #5) by Susan Stoker
When Sarah Butler starts receiving unwanted gifts and letters she goes to the police who dismiss her concerns about a stalker. So she goes to Ace Security who recommend she takes self defence lessons at the Rock Hard Gym with Cole Johnson.
I didn’t realize going into Claiming Sarah that it is the final book in the series and there were times that I was a little lost as to what had transpired in the previous books; however despite this I did enjoy this story.
As with other books I have read from Susan Stoker, this one was well written and the characters were strong. Cole is definitely an alpha, protective man who will do whatever it takes for the woman who captures his heart, Sarah.
The attraction and chemistry between Cole and Sarah is almost off the charts as Cole struggles to teach Sarah and protect her from her unwanted admirer. Will danger pull these two apart or will Cole and the team from Ace Security be able to save Sarah in time?
Claiming Sarah is a steamy story with suspense, drama and some humour which was an enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley
When Sarah Butler starts receiving unwanted gifts and letters she goes to the police who dismiss her concerns about a stalker. So she goes to Ace Security who recommend she takes self defence lessons at the Rock Hard Gym with Cole Johnson.
I didn’t realize going into Claiming Sarah that it is the final book in the series and there were times that I was a little lost as to what had transpired in the previous books; however despite this I did enjoy this story.
As with other books I have read from Susan Stoker, this one was well written and the characters were strong. Cole is definitely an alpha, protective man who will do whatever it takes for the woman who captures his heart, Sarah.
The attraction and chemistry between Cole and Sarah is almost off the charts as Cole struggles to teach Sarah and protect her from her unwanted admirer. Will danger pull these two apart or will Cole and the team from Ace Security be able to save Sarah in time?
Claiming Sarah is a steamy story with suspense, drama and some humour which was an enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley
August 8, 2019
Claiming Sarah – Susan Stoker
This is the fifth book in the Ace Security series from Susan Stoker and this book is coming out more than a year after Felicity’s story (book #4). This is Cole and Sarah’s story. Cole is co-owner of the local gym and Sarah meets him when she requests self-defense lessons because of a stalker who keeps sending her gifts. That is the simplified version of the story, as I don’t want to give any spoilers away!
If you haven’t read the other 4 books in this series, you will still be able to follow along. I prefer to read series in order but since book 4 came out over a year ago, I couldn’t remember specific details from it. With that being said though, Stoker does a great job of summarizing different plot lines from previous books so you can still follow along in the story. I really enjoy books from Susan Stoker and I really enjoyed this series and I am glad Cole finally got his happy ending.
** I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for an unbiased review**
This is the fifth book in the Ace Security series from Susan Stoker and this book is coming out more than a year after Felicity’s story (book #4). This is Cole and Sarah’s story. Cole is co-owner of the local gym and Sarah meets him when she requests self-defense lessons because of a stalker who keeps sending her gifts. That is the simplified version of the story, as I don’t want to give any spoilers away!
If you haven’t read the other 4 books in this series, you will still be able to follow along. I prefer to read series in order but since book 4 came out over a year ago, I couldn’t remember specific details from it. With that being said though, Stoker does a great job of summarizing different plot lines from previous books so you can still follow along in the story. I really enjoy books from Susan Stoker and I really enjoyed this series and I am glad Cole finally got his happy ending.
** I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for an unbiased review**
May 31, 2022
This started out as just OK and went down hill really fast. This IN NO WAY felt like a Susan Stoker book. This was cringe worthy the whole time; one, with the choice of baddie, two, with how Cole pursued Sarah (basically the same way her stalker did), and three, Cole's actions towards and around Sarah.
Let's start with the baddie/villain/antagonist
Sarah is basically a doormat. At the start of the book she mentions that her dad's taught her "if she doesn't have anything nice to say then don't say it" and she took that to heart and basically never speaks up for herself, she lets everyone around her treat her like a servant and she wont say no b/c in her mind that would be mean.
Cole is about the worst guy. He is the most heavy handed "hero" I've seen outside a BDSM book. He uses juvenile name calling that is in no way funny. He goes behind her back to to set up and instal things at her house, with out telling her and especially with out asking about it. He answers questions for her while she is standing right there. He gives her number out without her permission. Then there is the late night after girls night and she is drunk . Then the issue with her thinking about moving b/c her house is not as safe as it should be, but of corse he forces that along too even when she told him she's not sure about selling her deceased fathers' house, he forces a real estate agent on her and does not tell her about the movers he hired until she finds out from someone else. Ug and then there is the epilogue and
Most stories that have a female starting as a doormat have a male who strengthens them and encourages them to get stronger and more confident, not Cole, he takes advantage of her meekness, clubs her over the head and drags her along telling her how things will be. Their relationship is more like a Dom/sub (slave) relationship, without the kinky sex. It is strange to have Cole's story along side Owen's b/c the only real difference is that for some reason Sarah likes Cole.
Over all this series has been a huge let down. I enjoyed the first story, the next one was good, the next two just ok and then this one. There are so many of Susan's books I do enjoy, I guess there comes a point she writes one that really doesn't work for me
Let's start with the baddie/villain/antagonist
Sarah is basically a doormat. At the start of the book she mentions that her dad's taught her "if she doesn't have anything nice to say then don't say it" and she took that to heart and basically never speaks up for herself, she lets everyone around her treat her like a servant and she wont say no b/c in her mind that would be mean.
Cole is about the worst guy. He is the most heavy handed "hero" I've seen outside a BDSM book. He uses juvenile name calling that is in no way funny. He goes behind her back to to set up and instal things at her house, with out telling her and especially with out asking about it. He answers questions for her while she is standing right there. He gives her number out without her permission. Then there is the late night after girls night and she is drunk . Then the issue with her thinking about moving b/c her house is not as safe as it should be, but of corse he forces that along too even when she told him she's not sure about selling her deceased fathers' house, he forces a real estate agent on her and does not tell her about the movers he hired until she finds out from someone else. Ug and then there is the epilogue and
Most stories that have a female starting as a doormat have a male who strengthens them and encourages them to get stronger and more confident, not Cole, he takes advantage of her meekness, clubs her over the head and drags her along telling her how things will be. Their relationship is more like a Dom/sub (slave) relationship, without the kinky sex. It is strange to have Cole's story along side Owen's b/c the only real difference is that for some reason Sarah likes Cole.
Over all this series has been a huge let down. I enjoyed the first story, the next one was good, the next two just ok and then this one. There are so many of Susan's books I do enjoy, I guess there comes a point she writes one that really doesn't work for me
July 24, 2019
Another winner! This is a wonderful contemporary romance that loved. Sarah is a CNA who's been a bit lost since her dads' death a few years before and Cole is the part owner of a gym. Sarah turns to Cole for self defense lessons when she is being stalked, and, while he helps her, sparks fly. I found myself totally engrossed and invested in their story.
In addition to the hot romance and the swoon-worthy characters you would expect in one of this author's novels, she also touches on high functioning mental retardation and a character that is lost and floundering on his own. She does this with a gentle touch that respectful and relatable.
I stayed up way too late into the night to finish this book and found myself flipping pages just as quickly as possible. This one is a must read. The author is on my must read authors' list and, if you're a fan of the genre, should be on yours as well.
In addition to the hot romance and the swoon-worthy characters you would expect in one of this author's novels, she also touches on high functioning mental retardation and a character that is lost and floundering on his own. She does this with a gentle touch that respectful and relatable.
I stayed up way too late into the night to finish this book and found myself flipping pages just as quickly as possible. This one is a must read. The author is on my must read authors' list and, if you're a fan of the genre, should be on yours as well.
February 11, 2023
Probably closer to 3.5/5.0
There were so many things I enjoyed in this book. It had multiple points that were extremely creative and refreshing!
First, Sarah's character! How rare and unique is it to find a genuinely sweet, quiet girl who doesn't stand up and kick-a#$ every time someone crosses her in today's contemporary offerings?! Sarah's background in foster care taught her to keep quiet in a conflict. Then, her lovely dads instilled in her the belief that kindness is always better. She lives these two qualities to the tee. In fact, so much so that it is almost frustrating at times. She isn't truly a doormat character but she doesn't really stand up for herself. She just doesn't say anything and proceeds to do what she wants!
Cole's character is awesome! He sees the rare beauty that is Sarah's nature and immediately wants to protect and care for it. I did question the insta-love thing between them. It never did burrow into my believability brain like I wanted it to. I know why he was attracted to her but what made him actually fall in love with her? And visa-versa.. was she just looking for someone to take care of her? I would love to have had more depth in understanding that relationship.
The "suspense" part was also a mixed bag. It was AWESOME in that is was not at all like other books of this genre. Creative and intriguing at the same time. LOVED that! And, I loved the aspect that no one really took Sarah seriously because nothing really menacing was happening. On the surface people just saw someone pursuing her and leaving her gifts. Yet, she knew her instincts and they screamed, "CREEPY!"
I think the biggest drawback for me in the story was that I haven't read the previous books in this series. Although one can read this as a stand-alone, I REALLY wouldn't suggest it. Because I didn't know the backstories to many of the characters, I was never able to get anything but a surface/top layer understanding and that was extremely frustrating. So much involves the friendships and people surrounding Cole and Sarah that without having read previous books, one is left in the dark and without the depth to truly enjoy the story.
There were so many things I enjoyed in this book. It had multiple points that were extremely creative and refreshing!
First, Sarah's character! How rare and unique is it to find a genuinely sweet, quiet girl who doesn't stand up and kick-a#$ every time someone crosses her in today's contemporary offerings?! Sarah's background in foster care taught her to keep quiet in a conflict. Then, her lovely dads instilled in her the belief that kindness is always better. She lives these two qualities to the tee. In fact, so much so that it is almost frustrating at times. She isn't truly a doormat character but she doesn't really stand up for herself. She just doesn't say anything and proceeds to do what she wants!
Cole's character is awesome! He sees the rare beauty that is Sarah's nature and immediately wants to protect and care for it. I did question the insta-love thing between them. It never did burrow into my believability brain like I wanted it to. I know why he was attracted to her but what made him actually fall in love with her? And visa-versa.. was she just looking for someone to take care of her? I would love to have had more depth in understanding that relationship.
The "suspense" part was also a mixed bag. It was AWESOME in that is was not at all like other books of this genre. Creative and intriguing at the same time. LOVED that! And, I loved the aspect that no one really took Sarah seriously because nothing really menacing was happening. On the surface people just saw someone pursuing her and leaving her gifts. Yet, she knew her instincts and they screamed, "CREEPY!"
I think the biggest drawback for me in the story was that I haven't read the previous books in this series. Although one can read this as a stand-alone, I REALLY wouldn't suggest it. Because I didn't know the backstories to many of the characters, I was never able to get anything but a surface/top layer understanding and that was extremely frustrating. So much involves the friendships and people surrounding Cole and Sarah that without having read previous books, one is left in the dark and without the depth to truly enjoy the story.
November 9, 2019
✦Review, Guest Post & Giveaway: CLAIMING SARAH by Susan Stoker https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-bgm
Publication Date: September 10, 2019
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4 Stars
I enjoyed this installment in the Ace Security series, though not as much as the others. Sarah was a little too self-depreciating for me…needing assurances all the time. It didn’t really match her upbringing for me. That being said…she was sweet, caring, and a perfect match for Cole. The antagonist in this story had a nice twist as well. A bit different than the usual fare, so adding a nice dimension to show Sarah’s caring nature. They had a nice spicy romance that developed rather quickly into love. It was a quick read that I could not put down and made me anxious for the next installment.
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle $4.99 https://amzn.to/2LNBGQ3
You can borrow for free via Kindle Unlimited if you are a member. If you're not a member you can signup for a Free 30-Day Trial Here: http://amzn.to/2t4xstj
Publication Date: September 10, 2019
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4 Stars
I enjoyed this installment in the Ace Security series, though not as much as the others. Sarah was a little too self-depreciating for me…needing assurances all the time. It didn’t really match her upbringing for me. That being said…she was sweet, caring, and a perfect match for Cole. The antagonist in this story had a nice twist as well. A bit different than the usual fare, so adding a nice dimension to show Sarah’s caring nature. They had a nice spicy romance that developed rather quickly into love. It was a quick read that I could not put down and made me anxious for the next installment.
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle $4.99 https://amzn.to/2LNBGQ3
You can borrow for free via Kindle Unlimited if you are a member. If you're not a member you can signup for a Free 30-Day Trial Here: http://amzn.to/2t4xstj
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