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Delta Team Two #3
Shielding Aspen
When Aspen Mesmer asks a complete stranger to kiss her one night in a bar, she never expects to have an immediate connection with the man.
Kane “Brain� Temple knows he isn't the kind of man women look at twice, but when Aspen did just that after their explosive impulsive kiss, he's thrilled.
But even as things between them get serious, someone doesn’t want either to be happy, and is willing to do whatever it takes to break them apart.
** Shielding Aspen is the 3rd book in the Delta Team Two Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
Kane “Brain� Temple knows he isn't the kind of man women look at twice, but when Aspen did just that after their explosive impulsive kiss, he's thrilled.
But even as things between them get serious, someone doesn’t want either to be happy, and is willing to do whatever it takes to break them apart.
** Shielding Aspen is the 3rd book in the Delta Team Two Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2020
1847 people are currently reading
1035 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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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:
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For all upcoming books click here:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 306 reviews
June 21, 2021
Shielding Aspen is more technical on military instead of the romance. The romance is standard. I do not like it or hate it either.
I was expecting more of Miss Stoker. I want the groveling from the hero more dramatic. Actually, this book is min drama, putting aside the rescue mission drama. The last push from the hero at the end is not necessary.
Overall, this is a feel good, easy reading.
3 stars
I was expecting more of Miss Stoker. I want the groveling from the hero more dramatic. Actually, this book is min drama, putting aside the rescue mission drama. The last push from the hero at the end is not necessary.
Overall, this is a feel good, easy reading.
3 stars
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October 20, 2020NOW LIVE!
An impulsive kiss, a jealous ex, and her future in the balance. He might be exactly what she needs.
Shielding Aspen
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April 23, 2021
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December 3, 2021
didn't connect with the mc's
but I would recommend this author to KA fans this insta alpha premise off her books is like KA's books but only military with some suspense
but I would recommend this author to KA fans this insta alpha premise off her books is like KA's books but only military with some suspense
October 21, 2020
Okay. I did it. Finished reading Shielding Aspen in under 24 hours. Now for my review. A close friend of mine recently reviewed this book also and likened the book to the Pumpkin Spice flavoring for coffees. I thought that was brilliant, cause hello it’s Fall, and who doesn’t like Pumpkin Spice?? Isn’t that all what we wait and long for when Fall comes along? The anticipation of that first sip? Now, I’m not gonna steal this theme for my review, per se but I am gonna parallel my thoughts to this. For me, the anticipation is not only the availability of Pumpkin Spice everything but it’s that Fall is FINALLY here. Cooler weather, changing leaves, and knowing that the holidays are just around the corner.
With Shielding Aspen, the third book in this Delta Team Two series, Fall has finally arrived (the book) and I am enjoying all the nuances that come with the season. Kane “Brain� Temple is the cooler weather. He may not see himself like he sees his teammates, the cool collected Delta operator but that’s okay. Cause he’s chill and laid back. You know, “the quiet� one. And then there’s Aspen, isn’t her name fitting? To me, she’s like the changing color of the leaves that happen during the season. Going from the fully green of summer and changing into the bareness of winter. Getting ready to weather any storm that’s on the horizon. Both of these characters are true Susan Stoker alpha and heroine. With realistic personalities and insecurities that make them believable and interesting.
The great thing about all of Susan Stoker's books is her ability to integrate everyday issues and situations into her books. That combined with a great story makes each book both enjoyable and deadly, lol. That may seem like an odd combination but believe me, by the time you are nearing the end of the book you are just waiting for Ms. Stoker to put in the teaser that’s going to blow you out of the water and dread the wait for the next book! DEADLY. And with this book, Ms. Stoker doesn’t give you one or two but THREE teasers that will have you scrambling to see her book list and when these books are going to be released. But I digress. Let’s get back to Fall.
So like every season, you have your good days (the ones where the weather’s perfect, not too hot and you can SMELL Fall in the air) and your bad days (those Indian summer days where you’re asking yourself as you look at the date HOW can it be this hot?) and Ms. Stoker puts you on the emotional rollercoaster with Brain and Aspen’s story. The development of their relationship is sweet and touching. The interaction between Aspen and the Delta Team is poignant and uplifting. The angst is big and upsetting at times (at least from my POV) but so satisfying when resolved. Like I said, good days and bad days. But overall, the fuzzy feeling from being able to wrap up in a blanket while watching the leaves change color and fall lazily to the ground while sipping my PSL is the reason Fall is my favorite season. And the reason why Susan Stoker is one of my favorite authors (okay probably THE favorite but again I digress). With only the ability to rate this book 5 stars, I will end my review by saying there may be only 5 but they are the BRIGHTEST STARS IN THE SKY!
With Shielding Aspen, the third book in this Delta Team Two series, Fall has finally arrived (the book) and I am enjoying all the nuances that come with the season. Kane “Brain� Temple is the cooler weather. He may not see himself like he sees his teammates, the cool collected Delta operator but that’s okay. Cause he’s chill and laid back. You know, “the quiet� one. And then there’s Aspen, isn’t her name fitting? To me, she’s like the changing color of the leaves that happen during the season. Going from the fully green of summer and changing into the bareness of winter. Getting ready to weather any storm that’s on the horizon. Both of these characters are true Susan Stoker alpha and heroine. With realistic personalities and insecurities that make them believable and interesting.
The great thing about all of Susan Stoker's books is her ability to integrate everyday issues and situations into her books. That combined with a great story makes each book both enjoyable and deadly, lol. That may seem like an odd combination but believe me, by the time you are nearing the end of the book you are just waiting for Ms. Stoker to put in the teaser that’s going to blow you out of the water and dread the wait for the next book! DEADLY. And with this book, Ms. Stoker doesn’t give you one or two but THREE teasers that will have you scrambling to see her book list and when these books are going to be released. But I digress. Let’s get back to Fall.
So like every season, you have your good days (the ones where the weather’s perfect, not too hot and you can SMELL Fall in the air) and your bad days (those Indian summer days where you’re asking yourself as you look at the date HOW can it be this hot?) and Ms. Stoker puts you on the emotional rollercoaster with Brain and Aspen’s story. The development of their relationship is sweet and touching. The interaction between Aspen and the Delta Team is poignant and uplifting. The angst is big and upsetting at times (at least from my POV) but so satisfying when resolved. Like I said, good days and bad days. But overall, the fuzzy feeling from being able to wrap up in a blanket while watching the leaves change color and fall lazily to the ground while sipping my PSL is the reason Fall is my favorite season. And the reason why Susan Stoker is one of my favorite authors (okay probably THE favorite but again I digress). With only the ability to rate this book 5 stars, I will end my review by saying there may be only 5 but they are the BRIGHTEST STARS IN THE SKY!
December 7, 2020
I gotta say I enjoyed this one a lot more than I did the previous book. Where that heroine was a wallflower in need of rescue, Aspen is a badass all on her own. She's trained with the Rangers and can hold her own in the middle of battle. In fact one could argue she faces more risks than any of her teammates and it'd be really nice if she could be regarded as an equal or even just be accepted by her team. It was a really great but sad topic to touch on but let's be honest, women especially in military positions are looked down upon simply for having a vagina. Some men really believe a women on the team will only hold them back, slow them down and cause problems. Aspen has dealt with it all and honestly she's sick of it. It's so sad to watch her try so hard and kick so much ass yet her team literally left her and the rest of their team to fend for themselves in the middle of a firefight. I'm not military by no means but even I know you NEVER EVER leave your teammates to die the way they did. I loved both MC's and I think Aspen being part of the Rangers made her really stand out to me and help balance Kane AKA Brain's character. Brain is a nerd, always has been, hence the nickname Brain. He knows over two dozen languages and often without even realizing throws in foreign words of endearment which really just adds to his appeal. The two have a slow going relationship which I thought was perfect for them because both clearly were at a point in their lives where they were ready to find the one. This story was a lot of fun and I'm glad we got to see more action this time around. Not only that we get to see them both immersed in a mission and working together. The way Brain and his team treat her is remarkable and finally she is able to see that the treatment of her by her so called teammates is and always has been wrong. When someone is willing to lay their lives on the line to save yours the least you can do is be fucking nice, but alas that was too much for some macho men and Aspen ends up leaving to find a more fulfilling job as an EMT. Can't say I blame her one bit. There were also a few (3) stories lined up for three of Brain's teammates and I think I'm most excited for Grover's story. Good exciting and sweet read.
October 21, 2020
Salted caramel.
Chocolate.
Where does Shielding Aspen sit at the coffee bar? I’ve done reviews for the previous 2 books in this Delta team #2 series and I’ve compared this series to coffee syrup flavors. So, I feel obligated to continue. And I like flavored coffees, so there’s that. 😉
So, now we’re into the Fall season. Well, as soon as we stop having 95* weather, I’ll be in the fall season too. But, I’m ignoring the ot climate and mentally moving into fall. And who better to do that with than Susan Stoker’s 3rd book, Shielding Aspen, of the Delta team #2 series? It’s a pumpkin spice kind of book. So, so good. Like I’ve waited all year for it. I can smell the aroma, I can taste spice. I’m all about it. I want the whipped cream and the spice sprinkles on top.
Aspen is all of what I’ve been waiting for. She’s the strong and flavorful spicy character of a pumpkin spice latte. She’s her very own signature blend of autumnal spices and steamed milk and strong coffee. The girl can hold her own. She’s quick-witted, book smart, and in-the-field competent. It’s too bad she’s under appreciated for all her goodness. (Like some people that don’t like the pumpkin spice. 😉) The constant belittling and sometimes hostile work environment can really deflate all the rich-bodied sweetness and comforting nature she embodies. It’s a really good thing she’s got the smartest guy, Brain, on the team to help her. He’s just too good to be true sometimes. The dude is a BRAIN. Schlau, madry, inteligente, fiksu, astutu. The man is smart. And the smartest thing he does throughout the book is to let her do her thing. She doesn’t need him to stand in front. She needs him to stand beside her.
I really like this duo. Aspen and Brain work really well together. Like pumpkin spice and strong coffee and cream and sugar. Oh, man. That’s some good stuff. ❤️
Chocolate.
Where does Shielding Aspen sit at the coffee bar? I’ve done reviews for the previous 2 books in this Delta team #2 series and I’ve compared this series to coffee syrup flavors. So, I feel obligated to continue. And I like flavored coffees, so there’s that. 😉
So, now we’re into the Fall season. Well, as soon as we stop having 95* weather, I’ll be in the fall season too. But, I’m ignoring the ot climate and mentally moving into fall. And who better to do that with than Susan Stoker’s 3rd book, Shielding Aspen, of the Delta team #2 series? It’s a pumpkin spice kind of book. So, so good. Like I’ve waited all year for it. I can smell the aroma, I can taste spice. I’m all about it. I want the whipped cream and the spice sprinkles on top.
Aspen is all of what I’ve been waiting for. She’s the strong and flavorful spicy character of a pumpkin spice latte. She’s her very own signature blend of autumnal spices and steamed milk and strong coffee. The girl can hold her own. She’s quick-witted, book smart, and in-the-field competent. It’s too bad she’s under appreciated for all her goodness. (Like some people that don’t like the pumpkin spice. 😉) The constant belittling and sometimes hostile work environment can really deflate all the rich-bodied sweetness and comforting nature she embodies. It’s a really good thing she’s got the smartest guy, Brain, on the team to help her. He’s just too good to be true sometimes. The dude is a BRAIN. Schlau, madry, inteligente, fiksu, astutu. The man is smart. And the smartest thing he does throughout the book is to let her do her thing. She doesn’t need him to stand in front. She needs him to stand beside her.
I really like this duo. Aspen and Brain work really well together. Like pumpkin spice and strong coffee and cream and sugar. Oh, man. That’s some good stuff. ❤️
October 20, 2020
Another hit. A Delta gets a strange introduction at the local bar. Aspen has an ex that has a thing about women in the military especially when they are in combat type units. Aspen is a combat medic that is assigned to a Ranger unit, her ex is the platoon leader of a sister platoon. He has made her life miserable so she wants him to leave her alone and in walks Brain/Kane who she walks up to and says kiss me. There is a spark when Aspen and Kane meet and it leads to an introduction to the Delta Team. After introductions and explanations for names our cast of characters then get involved in training and deployments as well as humanitarian efforts. And Annie makes a guest appearance.
October 23, 2020
In Point!!
This book is so needed! The harassment, intimidation and bullying that women all over face is a real thing. And this book put a face on it and shows why it is important to stand up for yourself. Fight like a girl and stand strong like a girl!!!
This book is so needed! The harassment, intimidation and bullying that women all over face is a real thing. And this book put a face on it and shows why it is important to stand up for yourself. Fight like a girl and stand strong like a girl!!!
November 1, 2020
Great story! I loved that Aspen was a strong woman in the Army, and yet still dealing with the perils and drawbacks of being a woman in the Army. Also, LOVED seeing Annie again. Aspen and Brain were great together. And again, no awkward talk from his teammates about their super new relationship. 2 in a row!!
October 20, 2020
'You gonna keep saying stupid shit?'
Ah! Aspen is kickass! She doesn't let Brain get away with putting himself down, she is a warrior with the Rangers but then so sweet with Annie too...no wonder Brain falls so fast!
Brain is the quiet one we don't know much about, and his childhood and life before Delta hurt your heart, but seeing him fall for Aspen, love her, protect her, support her and stand shoulder to shoulder has you willingly handing over your heart. He is so socially awkward but Aspen just accepts him for who he is, no judgement, no drama. I love these two for each other and I am eagerly looking forward to the rest of the books in this series....but having to wait until book 8 for Sienna and Grover's book...not cool!
Another hit from Ms Stoker, not that we expected anything else!
Ah! Aspen is kickass! She doesn't let Brain get away with putting himself down, she is a warrior with the Rangers but then so sweet with Annie too...no wonder Brain falls so fast!
Brain is the quiet one we don't know much about, and his childhood and life before Delta hurt your heart, but seeing him fall for Aspen, love her, protect her, support her and stand shoulder to shoulder has you willingly handing over your heart. He is so socially awkward but Aspen just accepts him for who he is, no judgement, no drama. I love these two for each other and I am eagerly looking forward to the rest of the books in this series....but having to wait until book 8 for Sienna and Grover's book...not cool!
Another hit from Ms Stoker, not that we expected anything else!
not-going-there
November 11, 2020Three cliffhangers? lmao Susan Stoker really is the worst.
February 1, 2021
New favorite Stoker book?? I liked this one. It's hard to find a romance about two active military personnel.
October 21, 2020
Safe, I liked both mc's. The H disappointed me on one occasion and the h proved to be way more forgiving then I would be
January 25, 2022
Another great book by Ms. Stoker from the first kiss to the teasers for the next three books. I loved Aspen and Brain/Kane. Her ex is a piece of sh!t, a huge one, and her team isn't much better. She is strong, mentally and physically, but I loved how she didn't have to be with Brain. Brain was perfect for her willing to stand by her and help instead of in front of her and take over. I can't wait to read the next book....Lord bless Sierra
October 26, 2020
I like the main characters, and the story was ok. I’m not happy that it ended on three separate cliffhangers instead of the happy ending. It made the main story end really abruptly. Leaving one of the side characters captured and being tortured by terrorists at the end kind of kills any good feelings left by the main story.
May 22, 2021
4�
This is the story of Kane “Brain� Temple, a Delta member, who finds himself in the arms of strong minded Aspen Mesmer. Aspen is a Ranger’s combat medic and she knows how hard you have to work to be able to become a team member in the army, especially being a woman in a man’s world (or so they want us to think). She’d worked hard all her career to be part of the Rangers, sadly,after one (or two) bad dates with the wrong person and her army life turns umberable. Here enters Brain, he was just coming inside a bar to hang with his teammates and their loved ones, when he finds himself kissing a stranger. Aspen just wants to get off her back, her former date and Seargent, who doesn’t take no for an answer, until he sees Aspen kissing another man. Little does she know that she’s embarking in a new relationship, one that can truly change her life in the best of ways.
Something that I’ve really loved about this story is the part where we get to see Annie Fletcher again, in her early teens and how she still wants to be a soldier like her daddy (aww moment). Furthermore, Aspen and Brain witness a moment where the archaic minds are still influencing the younger ones with thoughts that shouldn’t be there in the XXI century: Fathers telling their sons that women belong in the kitchen and raising a family, that their place is at the house not in the Army’s ranks. How Aspen talks to Annie about her experience, she doesn’t sugarcoat it, she tells her the truth on how things are harder for females but not impossible, that she’ll have to work twice as hard to earn a place but, once you make it, you know it was worth the sacrifice. From my POV, this is one of the best scenes in the book. Also, this time both MC’s have to go overseas, where they find strength in each other and in themselves to overcome danger and the stigmatism that Aspen finds herself all the time among her teammates.
Of course we've got romance, an amazing and strong-minded heroine, a tough,strong and very intelligent Delta soldier with the best teammates anyone could’ve asked for, and a great story that will captivate the reader from the first page.
This is the story of Kane “Brain� Temple, a Delta member, who finds himself in the arms of strong minded Aspen Mesmer. Aspen is a Ranger’s combat medic and she knows how hard you have to work to be able to become a team member in the army, especially being a woman in a man’s world (or so they want us to think). She’d worked hard all her career to be part of the Rangers, sadly,after one (or two) bad dates with the wrong person and her army life turns umberable. Here enters Brain, he was just coming inside a bar to hang with his teammates and their loved ones, when he finds himself kissing a stranger. Aspen just wants to get off her back, her former date and Seargent, who doesn’t take no for an answer, until he sees Aspen kissing another man. Little does she know that she’s embarking in a new relationship, one that can truly change her life in the best of ways.
Something that I’ve really loved about this story is the part where we get to see Annie Fletcher again, in her early teens and how she still wants to be a soldier like her daddy (aww moment). Furthermore, Aspen and Brain witness a moment where the archaic minds are still influencing the younger ones with thoughts that shouldn’t be there in the XXI century: Fathers telling their sons that women belong in the kitchen and raising a family, that their place is at the house not in the Army’s ranks. How Aspen talks to Annie about her experience, she doesn’t sugarcoat it, she tells her the truth on how things are harder for females but not impossible, that she’ll have to work twice as hard to earn a place but, once you make it, you know it was worth the sacrifice. From my POV, this is one of the best scenes in the book. Also, this time both MC’s have to go overseas, where they find strength in each other and in themselves to overcome danger and the stigmatism that Aspen finds herself all the time among her teammates.
Of course we've got romance, an amazing and strong-minded heroine, a tough,strong and very intelligent Delta soldier with the best teammates anyone could’ve asked for, and a great story that will captivate the reader from the first page.
April 13, 2021
Overall Amanda rating: A+
Ok so I have an addiction with this writer and I am not sorry. I think that my favorite books of hers has the characters perfect. Where they mold together as a couple, the alpha man doesn't squish the female, and the female is just as strong and awesome as the male. This book delivered just that.
We first meet the couple in a bar where they become kissing strangers. Then it just gets better from there. The character development as well as the storyline in this book was very well written.
Aspen- A combat medic attached to a ranger unit. Yes, a female attached to a ranger unit. The rangers are egotistical men that think that women are beneath them and treat her 100% like crap. And yet she still gets up every morning wanting to make a difference and still saves their lives. When she first gets attached to the group she stupidly goes on two dates Derek, who becomes the biggest d-bag of the group. He apparently does not like getting turned down.
Brain (Kane)- Honestly his real first name is more macho than his Delta name, but considering he is the brains of the operations, it makes sense. After kissing this beautiful girl in the bar, he cannot wait to get to know her more.
So yes, guy meets girl, guy falls hard for girl, girl falls hard for boy, they make an amazing (& steamy) connection. Creepy ex tries to kill them, karma, then HEA. Yes, the book is basically the same as all the others, but the differences with the characters as well as how much detail the author writes to make them different from the other make them so great to read. If one of the characters have autism, she knows exactly how to write that. If one of the characters have PTSD she knows exactly how to write that. She actually puts so much time and effort in them to make them fun to read. I have not been disappointed once.
Thank you Susan Stoker. You have a huge fan!
Ok so I have an addiction with this writer and I am not sorry. I think that my favorite books of hers has the characters perfect. Where they mold together as a couple, the alpha man doesn't squish the female, and the female is just as strong and awesome as the male. This book delivered just that.
We first meet the couple in a bar where they become kissing strangers. Then it just gets better from there. The character development as well as the storyline in this book was very well written.
Aspen- A combat medic attached to a ranger unit. Yes, a female attached to a ranger unit. The rangers are egotistical men that think that women are beneath them and treat her 100% like crap. And yet she still gets up every morning wanting to make a difference and still saves their lives. When she first gets attached to the group she stupidly goes on two dates Derek, who becomes the biggest d-bag of the group. He apparently does not like getting turned down.
Brain (Kane)- Honestly his real first name is more macho than his Delta name, but considering he is the brains of the operations, it makes sense. After kissing this beautiful girl in the bar, he cannot wait to get to know her more.
So yes, guy meets girl, guy falls hard for girl, girl falls hard for boy, they make an amazing (& steamy) connection. Creepy ex tries to kill them, karma, then HEA. Yes, the book is basically the same as all the others, but the differences with the characters as well as how much detail the author writes to make them different from the other make them so great to read. If one of the characters have autism, she knows exactly how to write that. If one of the characters have PTSD she knows exactly how to write that. She actually puts so much time and effort in them to make them fun to read. I have not been disappointed once.
Thank you Susan Stoker. You have a huge fan!
November 9, 2020
I loved how this one opened and how both Aspen and Brain took advantage of the situation and got to know each other better. They were very cute together, both awkward at times where the other let them know it wasn't an issue. I loved how Aspen got to see Brain and his team work, how close they were, because her's sure wasn't. It galled me the way that Aspen was treated and how no one in her team stood up for her, even when lives were on the line. Aspen was a better soldier than any of them as she was fighting to save her teammates and fighting against the enemy. I really wanted the person in charge to get more than a slap on the wrist, instead all that happened was this person was more infuriated and went off the rails later. And what happened to them was karma at it's best.
It was great to see the "old" Delta team and Annie. Annie is one of my favorite characters, so whenever she shows up in a book I love it. I thought Aspen did a great job of showing Annie the reality facing women/girls and did it in a way to not scare Annie, but also to let her know she will be facing a fight in her life going forward.
The drama at the end was crazy on a couple of levels, one being when karma did what's it's known to and the other being when Brain pulled the stupid boy move. I'm glad that it didnt' take long for him to get his head on straight and realize what was important to him, Aspen, and he fixed things.
This one ended with a lot of dangling threads, lots of fun things to look forward to in future books.
It was great to see the "old" Delta team and Annie. Annie is one of my favorite characters, so whenever she shows up in a book I love it. I thought Aspen did a great job of showing Annie the reality facing women/girls and did it in a way to not scare Annie, but also to let her know she will be facing a fight in her life going forward.
The drama at the end was crazy on a couple of levels, one being when karma did what's it's known to and the other being when Brain pulled the stupid boy move. I'm glad that it didnt' take long for him to get his head on straight and realize what was important to him, Aspen, and he fixed things.
This one ended with a lot of dangling threads, lots of fun things to look forward to in future books.
January 4, 2021
As a combat medic attached to a Ranger team, Aspen has faced more than her share of sexist prejudice. Derek is a man who she went on two dates with and is in charge of another Ranger team takes her rejection of him poorly. While at a bar trying to get Derek to take the hint, Aspen uses Kane “Brain� in her ploy. Brain has his nickname because he’s a genius, especially with languages. Due to progressing through school at a very young age, he’s somewhat socially awkward and unsure of himself with women. They date before she’s deployed with her team to Afghanistan. it was a good book. I look forward to more in the series. The end of this book had teasers for several more! I read the ebook. 4/5
November 24, 2020
Actually 4.5 stars
Susan Stoker has written some great heroines before, but I'm loving the women of the Delta Team Two series so far. We've got Gillian, the event planner who negotiated with terrorists while being held hostage; Kinley, who saved herself from a hit man and testified against a homicidal ambassador, and Aspen, a combat medic with the Army Rangers who is every bit as tough as the men in her unit (even if they don't believe it).
I've never been in the military, but this seems like it would be an accurate representation of one side of women in the military (particularly women in the special forces). Aspen is excluded from team activities, and sometimes insulted by her fellow service members, all because she lacks a penis. This is especially challenging for her when a rejected suitor becomes one of her commanding officers. However, thankfully she has Brain and his Delta Force team to counterbalance the toxic masculinity of her own team. I love their relationship -- though when Brain's knee-jerk reaction to memory loss after head trauma was to push Aspen away, I took off points for falling for a romance novel cliche. Otherwise, the book was great.
Susan Stoker has written some great heroines before, but I'm loving the women of the Delta Team Two series so far. We've got Gillian, the event planner who negotiated with terrorists while being held hostage; Kinley, who saved herself from a hit man and testified against a homicidal ambassador, and Aspen, a combat medic with the Army Rangers who is every bit as tough as the men in her unit (even if they don't believe it).
I've never been in the military, but this seems like it would be an accurate representation of one side of women in the military (particularly women in the special forces). Aspen is excluded from team activities, and sometimes insulted by her fellow service members, all because she lacks a penis. This is especially challenging for her when a rejected suitor becomes one of her commanding officers. However, thankfully she has Brain and his Delta Force team to counterbalance the toxic masculinity of her own team. I love their relationship -- though when Brain's knee-jerk reaction to memory loss after head trauma was to push Aspen away, I took off points for falling for a romance novel cliche. Otherwise, the book was great.
October 20, 2020
Another quality story
When I read any story by Susan Stoker I know that I'm going to get a story with interesting characters, nail biting drama, and a spell binding love story. I have never been disappointed so when I found Shielding Aspen waiting for me, I was beyond excited. Once I started reading, I was useless for the rest of the day until the satisfying conclusion was reached. Aspen was a heroine that I admired and respected from the first glimpse. Kane was everything you could want in a leading man. We even got to hang out with the other members of the Delta Two team plus a quick run in with the Delta One team. Then Ms. Stoker finishes up the book with sneak peaks of several future books which just makes me yearn for them even more. If you are a fan of Ms. Stoker, then you will love this book as much as you love the others. And if you are not already a fan of Susan Stoker, then what's wrong with you? But seriously, you need to read all of her books. You will thank me.
When I read any story by Susan Stoker I know that I'm going to get a story with interesting characters, nail biting drama, and a spell binding love story. I have never been disappointed so when I found Shielding Aspen waiting for me, I was beyond excited. Once I started reading, I was useless for the rest of the day until the satisfying conclusion was reached. Aspen was a heroine that I admired and respected from the first glimpse. Kane was everything you could want in a leading man. We even got to hang out with the other members of the Delta Two team plus a quick run in with the Delta One team. Then Ms. Stoker finishes up the book with sneak peaks of several future books which just makes me yearn for them even more. If you are a fan of Ms. Stoker, then you will love this book as much as you love the others. And if you are not already a fan of Susan Stoker, then what's wrong with you? But seriously, you need to read all of her books. You will thank me.
October 19, 2020
Another two thumbs up for Brain & Aspen! The chemistry is instant & they just click. I love how they boost each other's confidence, too. We get to see their relationship develop through conversations & emails while she's deployed, and I could FEEL their joy at seeing each other in person for the first time in a month. SO GOOD!
We get action & some good lessons in how to treat ppl; we get to see Annie & the original Delta team - and it sounds like Aspen is going to be a good mentor for Annie!
There's just the right about of steam, as usual, and it compliments the story & characters rather than attempting to take over, which I always appreciate in this author's work! I also appreciate that these teams of military men aren't just co-workers. They are friends & family & are willing, eager even, to fold new members into their circle.
And the teases into the next books... I want them now! LOL
: )
We get action & some good lessons in how to treat ppl; we get to see Annie & the original Delta team - and it sounds like Aspen is going to be a good mentor for Annie!
There's just the right about of steam, as usual, and it compliments the story & characters rather than attempting to take over, which I always appreciate in this author's work! I also appreciate that these teams of military men aren't just co-workers. They are friends & family & are willing, eager even, to fold new members into their circle.
And the teases into the next books... I want them now! LOL
: )
October 20, 2020
Wowww
Such craziness. Loved the story. you really get a feel for the hardships women face in the military. Yes physically women are smaller and weaker than men but that doesn’t mean they can’t do the same things. Aspen proved that with her kick ass skills as not only a medic but as basically a ranger. She didn’t have to complete most of those trainings but suffered through them with her crappy team because she knew it was necessary and essential to her training and to help her teammates. Loved Kane or ‘brain�. He was the quintessential smarty with a soldier bod. Loved they together. They are awesome.
Wow plot twist and poor Sierra. But I saw it coming. Similar to the rescuing kaylee book in the last series. Sucks we have to wait until the end to find out what happens to her and probably glovers story.
Wow on the plot twist with Oz. Just wow. That’s a wrench in the works.
Such craziness. Loved the story. you really get a feel for the hardships women face in the military. Yes physically women are smaller and weaker than men but that doesn’t mean they can’t do the same things. Aspen proved that with her kick ass skills as not only a medic but as basically a ranger. She didn’t have to complete most of those trainings but suffered through them with her crappy team because she knew it was necessary and essential to her training and to help her teammates. Loved Kane or ‘brain�. He was the quintessential smarty with a soldier bod. Loved they together. They are awesome.
Wow plot twist and poor Sierra. But I saw it coming. Similar to the rescuing kaylee book in the last series. Sucks we have to wait until the end to find out what happens to her and probably glovers story.
Wow on the plot twist with Oz. Just wow. That’s a wrench in the works.
October 20, 2020
Can I tell you a secret?
I think I've found my favourite Susan Stoker couple! Aspen and Kane are EVERYTHING. She is a kickass combat medic attached to a Ranger team and he is a Delta operative who also happens to be a genius. The chemistry between Aspen and Kane is combustible from the beginning and it simmers for the whole novel. More than the chemistry though is the true affection and bone-deep respect they have for each other. Aspen has had too much experience with men doubting her abilities as a combat medic just because she is a woman. In Kane, she finds a man who treats her as an equal partner on the battleground and at home, while never letting her forget that she is his woman. Brilliant! I loved this couple.
Only one problem...I read this way to fast and now I have to wait for the next Susan Stoker book to come out!!
I think I've found my favourite Susan Stoker couple! Aspen and Kane are EVERYTHING. She is a kickass combat medic attached to a Ranger team and he is a Delta operative who also happens to be a genius. The chemistry between Aspen and Kane is combustible from the beginning and it simmers for the whole novel. More than the chemistry though is the true affection and bone-deep respect they have for each other. Aspen has had too much experience with men doubting her abilities as a combat medic just because she is a woman. In Kane, she finds a man who treats her as an equal partner on the battleground and at home, while never letting her forget that she is his woman. Brilliant! I loved this couple.
Only one problem...I read this way to fast and now I have to wait for the next Susan Stoker book to come out!!
October 21, 2020
Loved it 💕
Shielding Aspen is the next story for our Delta Team and is absolutely jam packed with romance, action and suspense😱
Brain meets Aspen at their local haunt when she approaches him to kiss her - to throw a man who refuses to accept no off the scent🙃 This, however, develops into something more and before they know it Brain and Aspen are a couple but separated because of her Army status and trouble overseas😢
I really enjoyed this story because of how uplifting it is towards women but also the way in which the Delta teams show their respect towards women❣️A not to be missed story and series and I can’t wait to find out more about Oz, Jayme and Sierra - as for all intents and purposes, Susan has hinted at heaps on the horizon and I for one just can’t wait😍
Shielding Aspen is the next story for our Delta Team and is absolutely jam packed with romance, action and suspense😱
Brain meets Aspen at their local haunt when she approaches him to kiss her - to throw a man who refuses to accept no off the scent🙃 This, however, develops into something more and before they know it Brain and Aspen are a couple but separated because of her Army status and trouble overseas😢
I really enjoyed this story because of how uplifting it is towards women but also the way in which the Delta teams show their respect towards women❣️A not to be missed story and series and I can’t wait to find out more about Oz, Jayme and Sierra - as for all intents and purposes, Susan has hinted at heaps on the horizon and I for one just can’t wait😍
October 20, 2020
Shielding Aspen is the 3rd book in Susan Stoker’s Delta Team Two Series. We meet Kane “Brain� Temple, a Delta Force operative known for his vast arsenal of languages, and Aspen Mesmer, a combat medic attached to a Ranger team.
Aspen, to shake the unwanted attention of one of her teammates who happens to be her ex, share an explosive kiss with Brain. The two strangers soon develop a connection and embark on a relationship which was not welcomed by Aspen’s ex.
The moment I saw that the audiobook of Shielding Aspen appeared in my library I wasted no time listening to the story, knowing it was going to be a good one and I was not disappointed.
As always, Susan Stoker delivered another entertaining story. Having Virginia Rose narrate it was also a treat. A definite five stars all around!
Aspen, to shake the unwanted attention of one of her teammates who happens to be her ex, share an explosive kiss with Brain. The two strangers soon develop a connection and embark on a relationship which was not welcomed by Aspen’s ex.
The moment I saw that the audiobook of Shielding Aspen appeared in my library I wasted no time listening to the story, knowing it was going to be a good one and I was not disappointed.
As always, Susan Stoker delivered another entertaining story. Having Virginia Rose narrate it was also a treat. A definite five stars all around!
Read
February 11, 2021DNF 3%
It's the same old same old. Hero likes the Heroine because she's so natural, doesn't wear make up (he hates when women plaster themselves in it) and is shy and confident at the same time. Oh well.
And since when is a man you had 2 dates with your ex? He's just a man you had 2 dates with, nothing more, nothing less. You don't have to break up with him, you weren't together in the first place.
I think I'm done with Susan Stoker at this time.
It's the same old same old. Hero likes the Heroine because she's so natural, doesn't wear make up (he hates when women plaster themselves in it) and is shy and confident at the same time. Oh well.
And since when is a man you had 2 dates with your ex? He's just a man you had 2 dates with, nothing more, nothing less. You don't have to break up with him, you weren't together in the first place.
I think I'm done with Susan Stoker at this time.
November 4, 2020
Aspen is a sweetheart and I’m glad she is now part of the family of Delta’s...
Aspen is a badass in her own right and I love how she helped Annie that was super awesome...
I have to say Aspen is a favourite heroine now she is just all kinds of awesome...
And yes I know she has an extremely wonderful badass delta partner but for me this book was all Aspen...lol
Aspen is a badass in her own right and I love how she helped Annie that was super awesome...
I have to say Aspen is a favourite heroine now she is just all kinds of awesome...
And yes I know she has an extremely wonderful badass delta partner but for me this book was all Aspen...lol
October 16, 2020
I really enjoyed Brain and Aspen’s story and I loved that author Susan Stoker writes strong heroines in her books and this one was no different. Aspen shows she is smart, strong and capable of performing her duties in a field where men are mostly prevalent. I enjoyed the connection that Brain and Aspen had and how their relationship developed throughout this book as well as the action packed scenes. The epilogue already has me anticipating future books in this series.
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