Forever Strong

True Heroes #6

by Piper J. Drake

On the beautiful Hawaiian Islands, not all is paradise in this high-stakes, action-packed romantic suspense.

He'll risk his life for her . . . but will he risk his heart?

Jiang Ying Yue assumed her kidnapping was random, that she was in the wrong place at the wrong time. After all, who would want to harm her? But then her rescuer---a charismatic former soldier who takes her breath away---uncovers a traitor in her father's organization. Now, Ying Yue realizes that she's become a pawn in a dangerous game, and her kidnapper won't be satisfied until she disappears for good.

Zu Anyanwu's work with Search and Protect and his canine partner Buck have always been his first priority . . . until he's tasked with keeping Ying Yue safe. To him, the brave and resilient investment expert is more than just another client. But with danger closing in, Zu can't let his emotions get in the way of the most important job he's ever had---protecting the woman he loves.

Genres: Romance, Romantic Suspense, Suspense, Contemporary, Military Fiction, Adult, Animals

304 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 28, 2020

About the author

Piper J. Drake is a bestselling author of romantic suspense and edgy contemporary romance, a frequent flyer, and day job road warrior. She is often distracted by dogs, cupcakes, and random shenanigans.

Reviews

[Tucker Almengor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many thanks to Estelle at Forever for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review

"'We've got you.'
Zu's reassurance warmed her and settled in her chest.
'I believe you.'"

3.5 stars! This was a thrilling and romantic read that I really enjoyed!

So, what's this book about?
Jiang Ying Yue assumed her kidnapping was random, that she was in the wrong place at the wrong time. After all, who would want to harm her? But then her rescuer---a charismatic former soldier who takes her breath away---uncovers a traitor in her father's organization. Now, Ying Yue realizes that she's become a pawn in a dangerous game, and her kidnapper won't be satisfied until she disappears for good.

Zu Anyanwu's work with Search and Protect and his canine partner Buck have always been his first priority . . . until he's tasked with keeping Ying Yue safe. To him, the brave and resilient investment expert is more than just another client. But with danger closing in, Zu can't let his emotions get in the way of the most important job he's ever had---protecting the woman he loves.

This book hit the ground running which I really enjoyed. I loved the blend of military(ish) thriller combined with the sweet romance. It was very fast-paced and decently steamy, too!

If you're looking for a fast, sweet, steamy, and thrilling novel, I highly recommend this one!

Happy reading!

| Goodreads | Blog | Pinterest | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram

[PamG · Rating 4 out of 5]

FOREVER STRONG by Piper J. Drake is an action filler romantic suspense novel and the sixth book in the True Heroes series. Jiang Ying Yue was kidnapped and rescued by Zu Anyanwu's Search and Protect team. This novel starts with her statements at the police station in Hawaii after she has been rescued. Was her kidnapping random, because of her father's business interests, or is there more to the story?

This is the first book that I have read by this author and it worked well as a standalone novel. The characters are compelling and definitely someone you can root for. They felt read and distinct with clear goals. The secondary characters were well-rounded and enhanced the plot. I loved the varied and distinct personalities that meshed well together. The plot twists were believable, and there were some unexpected turns. The descriptions were vivid and gave a clear sense of time and place.

I enjoy good romantic suspense and this one pulled me into the story quickly and kept me fully engaged. Action, romance, and suspense set in beautiful Hawaii! I am looking forward to reading more of this series.

[Erth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ying Yue brings Zu to his knees, yes one look, one touch is all it takes for the big, gruff, Alpha owner of Search and Protect to find his heart owned by another.....and he totally has no idea what to do with that, how to proceed. Zu likes order and plans, control and nothing about falling in love is ordered, planned or controlled! But he cannot breathe without her, his sanctuary is now empty and soulless without her, does he complete her in the same way she completes him?
Ying Yue wasn't aware of what she was missing....until Zu. She wasn't aware that home could be a person....until Zu. She never wanted forever...until Zu. Can they possibly want the same thing?
Another great book in the series, I am hoping we get more and Zu expands the team. The amazing dogs make this series as much as the writing and the characters, they settle themselves firmly in your heart well before any of the humans do!
Great book, great series, great read.

[Carole (Carole's Random Life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.

I had a lot of fun with this book! This is the sixth book in Piper J. Drake's True Heroes series. I have only read one other book in this series and I thought that this book worked well as a stand-alone. I found this to be a really quick read and was able to read the book cover to cover in a few hours. I was looking for an exciting romance when I picked up this book and I felt like it delivered.

At the start of the story, Ying Yue has just been rescued after spending weeks with her kidnappers. Zu agrees to escort Ying Yue to the hotel that her father is currently staying at while in Hawaii on business. Once they pull up to the hotel, they realize that there is a problem and know the Ying Yue will be safer under Zu's protection. Zu and his team work with Ying Yue's father's team to ensure that everyone stays safe and to bring the kidnappers to justice.

I really liked Zu and Ying Yue and thought that they made a great pair. I thought that their personalities meshed together very well and the chemistry between them was very well done. I liked that they were both reasonable and competent individuals working towards a common goal. I also really liked the other members of Zu's team and thought that they added a lot to the story. I really appreciated the fact that the dogs in this series play an important role in the story. Buck was a great partner and I loved seeing his interactions with Zu, Ying Yue, and the rest of the characters.

I would recommend this book to fans of romantic suspense. I found this to be a really exciting story with a lot of action, great characters, and a wonderful romance. I definitely plan to read more of this author's work in the future.

I received a review copy of this book from Forever (Grand Central Publishing).

Initial Thoughts
This was a fun read. I really liked Zu and Ying Yue and thought that they made a really great pair. The story was really pretty exciting and I appreciated the fact the dogs were present throughout the story. This is the sixth book in the True Heroes series but would work well as a stand-alone. I wouldn't hesitate to read more from this author in the future.

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strong characters and a tension-filled courtship…

The mysterious, almost mythical, Zu has his story! Throughout this series, the tantalizing glimpses of this man had me craving to find out more. He was supportive though from afar with Arin revealing the personal parts of him he hid behind his boss-like, bullet-proof persona. I knew his romantic interest would have to be a special person and Ying Yue was just that woman…

Ying Yue was introduced in an earlier book, part of an earlier investigation, but despite those circumstances she was anything but a victim. Her strength, even as the attacks kept coming, showed her backbone. She was a force in any situation and Zu was smitten. He may have started as comforting security, but she soon looked at him with much different eyes…

I loved their relationship. Working together to solve a dangerous mystery while realizing their unique spark and acting upon it, no holds barred. The heat was intense and the pace fast. They were both smart, quick on their feet and complemented each other in bed and out…

This story was full of questions that left me wondering and guessing. Even when I thought I knew who the villain would be (so obvious) turned out I wasn’t even close lol. This duo’s chemistry was everything and made this my favourite read of the series. ~Diane, 4.5 stars

[Kelsie Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forever Strong by Piper J. Drake is the sixth installment in her True Heroes contemporary suspense series. Some characters in this novel appear in previous installments, but the necessary backstory is seamlessly inserted, and this book is a standalone. This is the second book that I’ve read in this series, and I absolutely loved it!

Modern “damsel in distress”, Jiang Ying Yue, is rescued by quintessential “knight in shining armor”, Azubuike “Zu” Anyanwu, and the action and romance begin.

Zu owns and operates Search and Protect, a private contract organization. His company has been hired to provide security for Jiang Ying Yue, an investment professional that Zu and his K9 dog, Buck, rescue from a human trafficking ring. Ying Yue is immediately captivated by Zu’s commanding presence, and Zu is enamored by Ying Yue’s beauty and quiet strength. Now Zu has to protect her from a persistent danger before he can explore the possibility of a future together.

I cannot say enough about how well-written this book is. There are no unnecessary details or scenes. Ms. Drake includes some small but interesting aspects of the African and Chinese cultures. The characters are strong, likable and real. There is great character interplay. The romantic connection between Zu and Ying Yue is soft and beautiful but also intense. The sexual tension leaps off the page. The plot grabs and holds the reader’s attention, start to finish. The action is intense, and the suspense is breathtaking. Finally, the dogs are wonderful.

Piper J. Drake proves herself as a master of the romantic suspense genre. Forever Strong is a fine example of contemporary romantic suspense and rates 5 out of 5 stars. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys suspense, action and romance, especially together. The sexual content may be off-putting to some readers, but this is still a very enjoyable read.

My thanks to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.

[Tanja ~ KT Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Releasing Jan 28th Forever Strong by Piper J. Drake is my very first read of 2020!!! What a way to kick off the year!! It's a combination of tropical atmosphere, action, romance, and suspense that makes for one hell of a read. I can't wait for the rest of you to get your hands on it. - https://amzn.to/2FLESZM




Follow us on
Twitter✿Facebook✿Pinterest✿BookBabblers✿Instagram

[Lisarenee · Rating 4 out of 5]

>>>>> My Synopsis (Review follows): <<<<<
Mere days ago, Jing Ying Yue had been plucked off the streets of Sinapore and kidnapped. She'd been knocked unconscious and woke up to find herself being held prisoner in a tiny cabin on a cargo ship crossing the Pacific Ocean. She doesn't know why she was kidnapped or who specifically did it. Yesterday she'd been rescued from her kidnappers. After spending the night in the hospital, she is going to be reunited with her father who has been doing business on the island of Oahu. She is being accompanied to the hotel where her father is staying by the man who rescued her, and she was eager to get back to her life. Only as they are pulling up to the hotel, the unthinkable happens...

He followed her gaze and took in the very obvious contingent of private security waiting at the top of the drive, a handful of men, all dressed in suits, each projecting an air of fit intimidation. Very impressive to most, Zu guessed. "Your father's security detail, I assume?"

She nodded in a jerky way, then shook her head side to side too fast. "He's one of them. One of my kidnappers. He's here."

They need to figure out who kidnapped Ying Yue and why or she will never be safe..

>>>>> My Review: <<<<<
This is the sixth book of the True Heroes series by Piper J. Drake. You could probably get away with reading this one as a standalone, but I don't entirely recommend it. At the very least I recommend reading Chapter Twenty-Three of 'Fierce Justice,' the fifth book in the True Heroes series, first. It includes the moment Zu finds Ying Yue on the cargo ship. I wish the author had included it in a prologue for 'Forever Strong,' but alas, she didn't. If, however, you want to learn how Search and Protect became intertwined with the Hawaiian government then I recommend you read 'Total Bravery,' the fourth True Heroes novel, followed by 'Fierce Justice' before reading 'Forever Strong.' The series centers around the Search and Protect organization--a privately owned contract organization with a specialized skill set. They are not mercenaries for hire, although they have the skill set to be ones if they wanted to be, but they don't. They work with canines trained for a specific type of search and rescue. They specialize in infiltrating difficult areas and extracting high-value hostages.

Azubuike Anyanwu, Zu to his friends, is the head of the Search and Protect. He and his team had been in charge of searching the Cargo ship which Ying Yue found herself on. They'd been hired by the Hawaiian government to spearhead a search for victims of human trafficking. The mission had been initiated by a task force sponsored by the Hawaiian government and was part of a larger campaign to stop human trafficking on the islands. From the moment he'd found Ying Yue he knew she was different. He found himself instantly attracted to the beautiful courageous young woman who showed strength and resourcefulness where others would have fallen apart. As the two are thrust together in an effort to protect Ying Yue from her kidnappers, the attraction that's been simmering between them comes to full boil. Zu, however, never gets involved with clients, especially not one he feels may be emotionally compromised after experiencing something as traumatic as a kidnapping. Ying Yue will have her work cut out for her in order to convince him she's not as vulnerable as he thinks.

Jing Ying Yue has a background in nonprofit capacity building and has a PhD in international tax law and policy. She'd been in Singapore for the past two years working with a few nonprofit organizations building their nonprofit capacity. Capacity building is an investment in the effectiveness and future sustainability of a nonprofit. When capacity building is successful, it strengthens and increases a nonprofit's ability to fulfill its mission over time, thereby increasing the nonprofit's ability to have a positive impact on lives and communities. While there may be a connection between her chosen profession and the kidnapping, her father is much more likely to be the reason. Her father is a wealthy and successful businessman and her kidnappers may have taken her to gain a ransom (although thus far no ransom demand had been made) for her or in an effort to gain some sort of leverage over her father. At this point, there are a lot of unknowns and it was anyone's guess as to why Ying Yue has been targeted. The fact that someone had gone to the trouble of infiltrating her father's security team, however, suggests they are serious in their attempts and not likely to give up any time soon. As it becomes clear the kidnappers are determined to get their hands on Ying Yue, she finds herself becoming more and more attracted to the man who's trying to save her. That's when things start getting interesting.

I ended up giving this one 4 out 5 roses. It was a fast paced, intriguing, suspenseful, and an engaging read. I liked the chemistry between Ying Yue and Zu and the mystery surrounding her kidnapping. I also liked how Ms. Drake put a spotlight on a topic that until recently was not often breached--human trafficking. The only thing I wish the author had incorporated into the story was the fact that often times the people who are trafficked are not from elsewhere. Sometimes they're kidnapped, manipulated, and/or lured into the trade right here in the US. The statistics aren't pretty, especially here in Florida. A friend of mine was once approached by someone who tried to pose as a security guard from a store and wanted to separate her from her child not really explaining why. She absolutely refused and called her husband who was a police officer. While we'll never know for sure if the man was a sex trafficker, we do know he wasn't who he said he was. Sometimes traffickers can be subtle sometimes not so much. One things for sure, if you're a parent you should know some of the things to look for, and if something doesn't feel right go with your gut. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one earned a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed.

Notes to keep you in the know:
The following is a link to a blog article that I found it very informative. It is entitled 'Your child has already been targeted: 7 things you didn't know about human trafficking.' Feel free to check it out:
https://military.citymomsblog.com/mil...

Please Note: I received an ARC of the book from the publisher for review purposes. This is no way affected or compromised my review or rating.

[Kate (kate_reads_) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forever Strong was the first book I’ve read in the True Heroes series but I will definitely be catching up and reading the others soon!

When the book begins, Ying Yue has just been rescued. She was kidnapped in Malaysia and found by the Search and Protect team in Hawaii. After the police are finished questioning her about her kidnappers, Zu Anyanwu is taking her to the hotel where her father is staying to drop her off. However when they get there - she recognizes one of her kidnappers in her father’s security team. Zu and his dog partner Buck along with the rest of the Search and Protect team are working with Ying Yue to understand what is really going on and keep her safe.

There are a lot of things I really loved in this book - both of the main characters, the great scenes of seeing the working dogs on the team, the side characters I can’t wait to learn more about from their own books - but I don’t think I have ever lusted so hard over a setting.

As I read this - it’s January in NY/NJ - the part of winter when it just feels constantly cold and gray and blah. But you know where I just was through the power of this book? In Hawaii. More specifically in Zu’s amazing home - with walls that open to ocean views, a built in hot tub, amazing showers, an inner courtyard because the house was built around an old tree. Sigh. Everything about this house is so dreamy. Please can I just live there now?

Also - I really really really hope Pua will get a book. I love her so much and felt she totally stole the scene in every scene she was in.

Thank you to Forever and Netgalley for the advance reading copies.

[Christina Rodrigues · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forever Strong is the sixth book in Piper J. Drake’s True Heroes series. This is a high-stakes, action-packed romantic suspense novel with a fantastic storyline, and great, well developed characters.

When kidnap victim, Jiang Ying Yue is rescued by Search and Rescue’s owner Zu Anyanwu and his canine partner Buck, she thought her ordeal was over. But when more attempts are made to abduct her, Zu discovers a traitor in her father’s organization. Together they work to keep her safe, despite the instant chemistry and intense emotions they spark in each other. But with danger closing in, Zu has to learn to keep his emotions in check if he’s to protect the woman he’s come to love.

Drake is a phenomenal writer, who’s story telling ability keeps you hanging as you go page by page. This is a fantastic series. I love that the characters and storylines from the previous books in this series are continued throughout each book. All the books in Piper J. Drake’s True Hero series contain a happily ever after and can be read as a standalone, however, reading it in order will give you a better appreciation for the characters and the series itself.

This is a voluntary review for Netgalley of an advanced readers copy.

[Anita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.

I had a really tough time getting into this book. The whole dynamic between the heroine and the hero just felt wrong. Her interactions with her father were just downright bizarre. OMG the guy doesn't even hug her or show any emotion that she was rescued and safe. But the hero is not much better than her father. He is also a closed off alpha male. It was a good plot, the narrative had some holes, but the action scenes were wonderful.

Jiang Ying Yue was a kidnap victim, but the why is part of the mystery. Her rescuer wasn't there to recover her specifically, even though her father is a wealthy businessman. When Zu tries to return her to her father, Ying Yue recognizes one of her kidnapers with her father's security team. With no one to trust, Ying Yue decides that her best protection is the Search and Protect Team.

When Zu Anyanwu rescues Ying Yue from a cargo ship along with others destined to be trafficked, he knows there is something different about her circumstances. As he digs deeper into the why of Ying Yue's kidnapping, nothing is as it appears and all their assumptions turn out to be wrong. Her strength and intelligence along with her beauty get under the Zu's defenses and make him yearn for things he gave up on a long time ago. None of that will matter if he can't figure out how to protect her and just who wants her and why. 3 1/2-Stars

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: 4.5 Stars

This thrilling book by Piper J. Drake takes place on the gorgeous Hawaiian Islands. It is thrilling, captivating and an excellent addition to the True Heroes series.

The Search and Protect team has successfully rescued Jiang Ying Yue, with the team's owner Zu Anyanwu taking the lead. However, their job is far from done when Ying Yue recognizes one of her captors as being one of her father's security team.

The question soon becomes this: Was Ying Yue kidnapped because of her father's impressive and influential organization? Or was there another reason? Zu with his incredible canine partner Buck must go a step further to keep Ying Yue safe. Ying Yue brings something different in Zu so he will go to any lengths possible to keep her safe.

With the danger being at the highest point for Ying Yue, Zu doesn't miss a beat. It is also clear that the pair have a strong attraction to one another that cannot be denied. So passion comes into the picture in this exciting story. I loved Forever Strong and could not put it down. I also have loved every single book in this series so far. I can see at least one other team member getting a story so I am eager to continue this series.

I love how the author pens these books. They can work as standalone novels, but they also seamlessly fit into the series. Every book in the series has a strong, no-nonsense dog. Another impressive thing she has done is to pair a Chinese and and African together. Bravo!

Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Darcy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think my favorite part of this one was Ying Yue. She was so strong, questioned everything, including Zu, found so much to love about the crazy Search and Rescue crew and manged to stay strong when she was bait and bad things happened to her. She just kept rolling with the punches time and time again and every time I thought good for you! I also loved that she had no compunction about letting Zu know she was interested in him and had no regrets after things got physical between them. Zu really didn't know what hit him and honestly didn't have a chance of not falling for her.

My second favorite part of this book was Pua. She was so kick ass as a side-kick. I loved how she anticipated what Zu would want, how she calmed Ying Yue when she first showed up, but most important how she kept a calm head when the bad guys came at her. I loved how in the aftermath everyone was so surprised at what she accomplished while in her "time out".

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forever Strong is the 6th book in the True Heroes series. It's a Romantic Suspense with interconnecting characters and each book is a stand alone.

Jiang Ying Yue lives and breathes her job as an investment expert so when she's kidnapped by human traffickers she just assumes they grabbed the wrong woman. Ying's father is high profile, who would want to harm her? Her rescuer a quiet former soldier snares her trust from the moment he finds her. They discover a traitor in her father's security team. Ying realizes that her kidnappers won't give up until she's disappeared for good instead of just held for ransom.

Zu Anyanwu's owns and works with Search and Protect with his canine partner Buck in Hawaii. Both have always been his top priority until he rescues Ying Yue. She is brave and to him she is more than just another client. With danger lurking and closing in, Zu must keep his emotions reigned in or they will get the woman he's falling in love with...dead.

[Shae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this one a lot. The series is solid, this relationship was such a treat for me. I also really love the choice for the more suspenseful part of this story. (I know I am being vague, but I don't want to spoil you!)
Definitely check out this series, and enjoy this delicious racially diverse story taking place on the Hawaiian Islands!

[Avid Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

Forever Strong (True Heroes #6) by Piper J. Drake
3 stars
M/F Military Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.

We find ourselves plunked right in the middle of this story. I'm unsure if book 5 has some of the beginning to book 6, but I did read book 4 and saw a few characters that were mentioned. However, this is very much a standalone book in that it's solely about Jiang Ying Yue and Zu.

This is not as fast paced as book 4. There is more backstory to the book and I felt that this story was slightly jumbled.

I found that Jiang Ying Yue was very naive, despite the fact that she was supposed to have been a very successful non-profit starter. She had to deal with a lot of people and while there were hints as to what her degrees were in, it was never truly spelled out.

Zu and Buck, his K-9 partner were somewhat hard to get to know. Zu was the leader and while he had some baggage in his past, he has to look forward. He has hand chosen his group and trusts them implicitly. When he meets Jiang Ying Yue, there is supposedly an instant connection. But, Zu's behavior and lack of conversation leaves the reader feeling somewhat lost.

Overall, while this had a lot of action and plenty of mystery, the romance was very flat and I found the characters difficult to relate to. But, having said that, I did like the action and mystery. It kept the story very interesting.

[Michael Campbell · Rating 2 out of 5]

**Trigger warning - Do not read if easily offended**

I got into this series because I'm a huge fan of stories involving K-9 characters. I listened to the entire series rather than reading them. I really enjoyed the first three books in this series and the fourth book with Raul and Taz (especially after meeting them in the third book), was pretty good as well. I enjoyed the narrators, who did a very good job. The fifth book was a bit of a let down even though Arin was one of my favorite characters. I was a bit annoyed at the poor pronunciation of several Hawaiian locations, which would be easy to get right with a bit of research. That and some procedural stuff that could have been a bit more accurate. That being said, I'll move onto this book. It was a huge disappointment, with the exception of the Hope's Crossing characters coming back. First, why change narrators? I have my thoughts on that, which I will get to in a second. Then one of my personal pet peeves is pronouncing names differently from book to book. I understand this can happen, but when you get to the sixth book, the names have been pretty well established in the audiobook world. The best example of that is Arin. A small portion of books 4 and 5 were dedicated to the characters proper pronunciation of Arin's name, as opposed to book 3 where it wasn't addressed at all when she was mentioned. Now the thing that annoyed me the most was Chapter 4 during the meeting between Ying Yue's father and his protection detail and the Search and Protect leader, Zu. I am absolutely in agreement that a female kidnap victim might be more comfortable with a protection detail that has a female member, but the idea that Zu would specifically ask if her father had a female member or a member that "identified as female" on his detail strikes of pandering and in reality makes no sense. I've got a little bit of experience dealing with crime victims, many of which were female. I can tell you that when dealing with victims, their woke ideology and pandering need for diversity and inclusion usually comes a distant second to actually being safe. Using the book as an example, a woman who is kidnapped by men and, although there was no indications of sexual assault while she was being held, the threat or thought of sexual assault is often ever-present. A female Agent or Officer would make things better for the victim, but having someone who "identifies as female" is not the same and would not be received the same in the real world. Back to the narrator change, the new narrators (Boise Holmes, Jolene Kim) weren't terrible, but they weren't as good as the previous narrators (Daniel Thomas May, Caroline Slaughter). Holmes and Kim did a fine job but they weren't as expressive as May and Slaughter. I found myself often wondering what character was speaking. May and Slaughter did a better job of differentiating between the characters. Given the direction of Chapter 4, I image this was another step to appease those who would have an issue with white voice actors performing parts that are clearing people of color, gasp. That seemed to be the direction in 2019/2020. I expect this is the last book in the series and if it isn't, it will be mine.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 28, 2020

On the beautiful Hawaiian Islands, not all is paradise in this high-stakes, action-packed romantic suspense.

He'll risk his life for her . . . but will he risk his heart?

Jiang Ying Yue assumed her kidnapping was random, that she was in the wrong place at the wrong time. After all, who would want to harm her? But then her rescuer---a charismatic former soldier who takes her breath away---uncovers a traitor in her father's organization. Now, Ying Yue realizes that she's become a pawn in a dangerous game, and her kidnapper won't be satisfied until she disappears for good.

Zu Anyanwu's work with Search and Protect and his canine partner Buck have always been his first priority . . . until he's tasked with keeping Ying Yue safe. To him, the brave and resilient investment expert is more than just another client. But with danger closing in, Zu can't let his emotions get in the way of the most important job he's ever had---protecting the woman he loves.


••••••••
REVIEW: FOREVER STRONG is the sixth instalment in Piper J. Drake’s contemporary, adult TRUE HEROES romantic, military suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for the Search and Protect team, a Special Ops team of mercenaries for hire location in the Hawaiian Islands. This is K9 handler, and Search and Protect Owner and Agent Azubuike ‘Zu’ Anyanwu (and Buck), and specialist in international tax law Jiang Ying Yue’s story line. FOREVER STRONG can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Zu and Ying Yue) FOREVER STRONG follows in the aftermath of a search and rescue mission where the Search and Protect team find our heroine, an unexpected prisoner, but a woman who is not willing to play victim for very long. As the daughter of a prominent Singapore businessman, Ying Yue believes she has a target on her back but a return to her father finds Ying Yue facing a possible traitor in her father’s company. Refusing to release Ying Yue into her father’s custody, Zu Anyanwu takes responsibility for the safety and protection of our story line heroine. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Zu and Ying Yue, and the potential fall-out as Ying Yue remains a target of some very powerful men, with possible connections to a human trafficking ring.

Ying Yue refuses to be a victim but someone is determined to take control of our heroine placing the Search and Protect Team in the direct line of fire. On the run to secure her safety, Ying Yue and Zu will call in reinforcements including the K9 specialists from Hope’s Crossing Kennels.

The relationship between Ying Yue and Zu is one of immediate attraction but Zu knows to get involved with a client could place both of them in danger if Zu gets distracted. Ying Yue is drawn to our hero, a hero who reluctantly accepts that there may be something between our couple, something that he is willing to explore. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Agents Raul Sa and his dog Taz, Arin Siri and her dog King, and communication specialist Pau; Kenny, a man with his ear to the ground about the illegal goings on in the Hawaiian Islands; officer Kokua; Ying Yue’s father Jiang Li Weis, and his numerous security personnel; as well as the cameo appearances of David Cruz, Alex Rojas and Brandon Forte, whom we met earlier in the series through Hope’s Crossing Kennels. The requisite evil has many faces.

FOREVER STRONG is a story of betrayal and vengeance; of power and control; of acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is engaging and inviting; the characters are spirited and strong; the romance is seductive. Piper J Drake pens a fascinating series of romantic suspense.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

www.thereadingcafe.com

[Reading In Pajamas · Rating 5 out of 5]

✦Review: FOREVER STRONG (True Heroes Series) by Piper J. Drake https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-boz
Publication Date: January 28, 2020
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 5 Stars

Sometimes I worry that a series will get stale – but that is not the case with True Heroes. I was swallowed up into their world right off. This could be read as a standalone novel, but I recommend reading the others because they’re good.

Ying Yue was easy to relate to. Strong and intelligent, yet vulnerable in her present circumstances. I liked her from the beginning. I am so happy that she listened to advice and didn’t go off half-cocked just to show her mettle like some heroines. That made her believable. Zu may come across as the usual alpha-male, strong, stoic, and untouchable. But you soon see there is far more beneath the surface. They made a great couple and their steamy romance was fun to read.

One of the things I love most about this series, is the group dynamics. The camaraderie with each other as well as the dogs, has always made me wish I were a part of it all. I love the banter and closeness they have with each other. The only problem is that I now have to wait for the next installment.

*Review copy provided Forever Romance in exchange for an honest review.

~*~*~*~

Kindle https://amzn.to/2GnfZUj

✿TRUE HEROES SERIES BY PIPER J. DRAKE✿
1. EXTREME HONOR ➢ Amazon http://amzn.to/1Jtfcds | Review http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-3JY
2. ULTIMATE COURAGE ➢ Amazon http://amzn.to/2aFTeKJ | Review http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-5TA
3. ABSOLUTE TRUST ➢ Amazon http://amzn.to/2cZwDNB | Review http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-7q7
4. TOTAL BRAVERY ➢ Amazon https://amzn.to/2HG9wGw | Review https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-aHC
5. FIERCE JUSTICE ➢ Amazon https://amzn.to/2BBUayy | Review https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-b2O
6. FOREVER STRONG ➢ Amazon https://amzn.to/2GnfZUj

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed getting to know the men, women, and canines of Search and Protect in the previous books. They're all a little different, but they're a solid team who can get things done to facilitate the best outcome for everyone involved. To be honest, Zu's been a bit of a mystery up to this point. He's extremely dedicated, magnificently competent when it comes to planning ops and keeping his people safe, and he's kept himself somewhat apart from the others overall. Not in a bad way, mind you, just in a focused sort of way.

Rescuing Ying Yue and having her challenge him (again, not in a bad way) with her intelligence and understanding, reveals another facet of the man who leads the team. He might make a misstep or two along the way, but he comes to realize that she's the one for him and he can either choose to step up and see if things will work between them or potentially lose the best thing that's ever happened to him.

As for Ying Yue, for all she's been through a terrible ordeal and she has to figure out how to get her life back on track, she knows her mind and what she wants. And she wants Zu. The biggest obstacle between them is his nobility and ingrained need to hold himself to a high standard. Which, frankly, isn't a bad thing. A guy who sticks to his guns and is willing to make sacrifices is a good guy to have on your side.

A little danger, a lot of plotting and planning, and some steam between the sheets. Getting to see familiar faces is always fun and watching two highly motivated, intelligent people fall for one another makes for an entertaining read.

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal

[books are love · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received in exchange for a honest review.

You can read this without reading the other books but I wouldn’t recommend that. Why? All the main characters tie into the past books and events all tie together. We see the Search and Protect brought into Ying Yue’s situation because they are on a different mission. A mission that ties to past books. And in a way her situation does as well.

Zu is strong, smart and quick to think on his feet. When he finds Ying Yue and rescues her he didn’t expect to fall in love with her and see the treachery within the ranks of her dad’s business. Through it all, Ying Yue believes her dad has no idea what is going on and as you see her become a pawn and hiding from everyone because of what happens when they go to bring her back to her dad it is surprising. She stays strong and faithful. The danger and the traitor’s intentions become more complicated, dangerous and nefarious as you learn more about her father’s business.

We watch Zu and the Search and Protect work fiercely to protect her and uncover the plot and see how dangerous a situation Ying Yue is in. Her mind and what she does professionally is amazing but also helps to put her in danger. As she gets to know Zu, the attraction she felt from the beginning becomes more. They zing from the beginning and you can feel the attraction from the beginning. I love how Zu protects her and respects her. He listens to her thoughts and views. The danger to her brings them closer and I love how it has him more fierce and not one where he becomes distracted by it.

A story filled with danger, surprises and love. A romance that thrives in the danger and strengthens with the trust and respect they have for one another. A exciting suspenseful romance.

[Sandy Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 6 in the True Heroes series and you absolutely must read the previous books before this one as they are all connected and built upon each other. In this one we get Zu's story. Ying was kidnapped and rescued by the Search and Protect team on an op in Hawaii. Ying truly thinks that she was just in the wrong place, at the wrong place. But when the team goes to take her to her father, she see's one of her kidnappers in her father's security. And realizes it wasn't random. Now Zu has to keep her safe while also figuring out exactly why she was kidnapped. All while trying to ignore the chemistry that they share.

As usual you can never go wrong with a Piper Drake book! This story drew me in from the very beginning and kept me reading. I have been hoping that Zu would get a story of his own and this one in no way disappointed! He is this strong, protective, alpha male with a sweet side a mile wide. Ying went through something no one should have to go through but she also is intelligent enough to know that it could have been extremely worse than it was. And even knowing she is still in danger, she is still this strong, beautiful soul that you can't help but like. The only reason I marked down for this one was because some parts of it felt a little slower than I liked. But other than that, I loved it!

[Shana · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was the first book I’ve read in this series but I had no trouble following along. The books opens with Ying Yue, a nonprofit consultant, recovering from being kidnapped and rescued by Zu, the leader of a security firm. They spend most of the book evading and fighting her kidnappers. I loved the Hawaiian setting and the warm chosen family that made up the security group. The story was engaging without being to stressful. Zu managed to be protective without becoming an alphahole, but Ying Yue’s strength in the face of first living in her wealthy father’s shadow, and then holding her own with an opinionated group of experts really endeared her to me.

The plot took some implausible turns and was occasionally weighed down with too many characters and lots of action detail, especially in the final climax. I got bored and skimmed that part. Also, Zu’s ethnicity is self-described as simply “African” which was extremely annoying, and lazy.

But, DOGGIES! I loved the descriptions of trained search dogs who only bark on command: what would that be like?

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 1/2 STARS!

Pulse-pounding intrigue! With the sixth book in her True Heroes series, Piper J. Drake continues the non-stop action with FOREVER STRONG. The plot is thick with tension as the team tries to keep an innocent safe through multiple capture attempts.

Investment expert Jiang Ying Yue thought her ordeal was over once she was rescued from her kidnapping and delivered to Hawaii to reconnect with her father, but the trauma is just beginning as she recognizes one of her kidnappers as part of her father's security team.

Search and Protect leader Zu Anyanwu and his canine Buck were in the right place at the right time to rescue Ying Yue from her kidnappers, and when she panics at seeing one of them again, he takes her into his protection until he can figure out exactly what is going on around here.

I recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who enjoys a romance mixed with a band of former soldiers and their canine partners saving the day on a regular basis. There were a few holes that could have been built on a tad, but overall this was a solid read and one of my favorites in the series. It was especially satisfying to see all of the guys reconnect for a mission.

[Xan]

Content Warnings Kidnapping. MCs and secondary characters in peril. Bomb threat. Threat of assasination and kidnapping. Several kidnapping attempts. Working animals in dangerous situations (none are harmed). Car accident resulting in injuries. Gunfire. References to nightmares and flashbacks from trauma. References to trauma from vague past experiences of violence and danger. Sex on the page.

This is book six in a series of romantic suspense novels, True Heroes, where working dogs are central to the story. This can absolutely work as a stand alone, but my reading experience was enriched by the prior books I had read, so I'd recommend starting at the beginning if you can. I haven't read the entire series yet, but I've enjoyed the ones I have read so far, and this one is my favorite.

Read my full review on my blog.

[Book Him Danno · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story starts off bam right from the beginning and readers are running along side the two leads as they are and figure out why someone is trying to Kidnap Jiang Ying Yue once again. Why they are working on her father security team.
The lead characters are strong and able to take care of each other. The romance follows in a flow that works with the book as well as a normal flow that readers come to when reading Romantic suspense novels.
The characters act as readers would expect. Piper J. Drake is known for her action pack romance stories with the help of a K9 animal. Sometimes the dog take background and lack a character development other times they are one of the principle characters. Every book is different enough and reader will enjoy this stand alone book in a series.

Thank you to netgalley for a copy of the book.

[Dolly Sickles · Rating 4 out of 5]

And rounding out the month is the sixth book in Piper Drake’s True Heroes series, FOREVER STRONG. Drake transports us to the idyllic island setting of Oahu, with a not-so-friendly glimpse of the terrifying world of international human trafficking. Jiang Ying Yue is in the wrong place when she’s kidnapped and, thanks to Azubuike Anyanwu and his canine partner Buck, makes a harrowing escape. But Zu and his colleagues have hit the hornet’s nest one too many times, and now he’s being framed. Good thing Ying Yue is on his side, because she questions everything. Remember this is book number six, and there are a full cast of characters—new and returning. It’s not as fast paced as some of the other books in the series, but it’s enjoyable all the same.

*Originally published at Frolic.Media: https://frolic.media/januarys-must-re...

[Linda Quick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Actually, I love the whole Search and Protect series. In this novel, we finally learn more about Zu, including his backstory and why he formed the Search and Protect agency. He is an interesting character and I loved seeing him going toe to toe with Jiang Ying as they struggle with their attraction to each other while also dodging bad guys who want to kidnap Jiang Ying.

This is fast paced romantic suspense at its best. The characters are well developed, interesting, and entertaining to read about. I found myself invested in their story and wanting them to get a HEA ending.

Put this one at the top of your TBR list as its' a must read for fans of the genre. The author is on my must read authors' list.

[Shelleen Toland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jiang Ying Yue assumed her kidnapping was random, that she was in the wrong place at the wrong time. After all, who would want to harm her? But then her rescuer---a charismatic former soldier who takes her breath away---uncovers a traitor in her father's organization. Now, Ying Yue realizes that she's become a pawn in a dangerous game, and her kidnapper won't be satisfied until she disappears for good.
Zu Anyanwu's work with Search and Protect and his canine partner Buck have always been his first priority.
The Search and Protect team has rescued Jiang Ying Yue, with the team's owner Zu Anyanwu taking the lead. Then Ying Yue recognizes one of her captors as being one of her father's security team.
Was she kidnapped because of her father?

#trueheroes #piperjdrake #forever

[Holly Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I could give Ms. Drake's books all a 5 star rating Lol...So far none of them have disappointed me and, this latest does not either. Book 6 in the True Heroes series has a slight cross over with her other series also involving dogs and trainers Hope's Crossing Kennels LOVE IT. This is Zu and Ying Ywe's story. After she is kidnapped, Zu and his GSD Buck rescue her, while coming to return Ying Ywe to her father she spots one of her kidnappers with his security team so Zu takes Ying Ywe to his house to personally protect her along with his team and when she is again kidnapped by F.B.I. agents this time Zu reaches out to Hope's Crossing and the men there for assistance in her rescue EXCELLENT book!!!!