A review by nikkisbooknook
The Hero by Susan Stoker

adventurous emotional mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

 
A wrongful arrest, hidden drugs, stolen artefacts, a jail break, and an epic trek through Thailand & Cambodia. This packs a lot into one book! I love this series of heroes who no longer want to be heroes but end up saving the day anyway!
Kendric aka Bob was down with no more military life but the adrenaline still called him and he ended up working on rescue missions for a contact at the FBI. His friends would be p'ed at him if they find out he's been hiding this sidejob from them. However his latest rescue takes him to Thailand.
Marlow fell into archaeology and now that fateful decision has got her in a bind. She was accused to selling drugs and smuggling artefacts and thrown into jail in Thailand. After a month she's wasting away and is rapidly losing hope. But a visit from a "lawyer" gives her shred of hope to hold onto.
When Kendric finally breaks her out, he and Marlow have to trek across Thailand and Cambodia to reach freedom. It's not without trials and tribulations - least of which was having to get married so they could stay together!
Yes the pacing is fast and furious and the relationship solidifies really quickly but intense situations breed intense feelings and these two know exactly what they are doing. They relish making it to safety and their feelings really flourish. They both give each other the chance to back out or shut down the relationship and there is no third act break up. Kendric is all protective alpha male but he has a squishy core that relishes a tatty piece of paper.
Marlow's version of HEA may not be everyone's cup of tea but feminism is supporting people in what makes sense for them - not imposing our ideas on others. I loved getting to meet the team and their lady loves again. I'm really looking forward to JJ and April's book next.