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SEAL of Protection: Alliance #7
Protecting Bree
It wasn’t easy to escape the first time. She might not be so lucky a second.
Bree Haynes never imagined herself a stalker. But how else could she know if the man who’d saved her in Vegas was someone she could truly trust? Now, after following him and his friends for months—and inadvertently getting involved in their lives not once, but twice—Bree is exhausted…and ready to ask for Smiley’s help. Because the man hunting for her, Mateo Castillo, the sex trafficker who’d bought her from her ex in Vegas, wants his “property.” And it seems he’ll stop at nothing to get it.
Jude “Smiley” Stark never imagined himself the obsessive type. But there’s no denying he’s been infatuated with Bree from the moment they met in Vegas, and the feeling’s only grown with every month he’s failed to find her. When he discovers she’s been right under his nose for months, he vows not to let the woman out of his sight again until she’s safe, once and for all. Problem is, even after he deals with Castillo, Smiley knows he’ll never want her to leave. He wants what his friends have…and he found it the first time he laid eyes on Bree.
But her enemy isn’t so easily dispatched. In fact, Smiley, his teammates, Tex…they’ll all be shocked to learn just how resilient the man’s turned out to be. Because Castillo hasn’t just come for Bree…
He’s also come to retrieve property stolen from him years ago…by another SEAL team.
**Protecting Bree is the 7th and final book in the SEAL of Alliance Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
Bree Haynes never imagined herself a stalker. But how else could she know if the man who’d saved her in Vegas was someone she could truly trust? Now, after following him and his friends for months—and inadvertently getting involved in their lives not once, but twice—Bree is exhausted…and ready to ask for Smiley’s help. Because the man hunting for her, Mateo Castillo, the sex trafficker who’d bought her from her ex in Vegas, wants his “property.” And it seems he’ll stop at nothing to get it.
Jude “Smiley” Stark never imagined himself the obsessive type. But there’s no denying he’s been infatuated with Bree from the moment they met in Vegas, and the feeling’s only grown with every month he’s failed to find her. When he discovers she’s been right under his nose for months, he vows not to let the woman out of his sight again until she’s safe, once and for all. Problem is, even after he deals with Castillo, Smiley knows he’ll never want her to leave. He wants what his friends have…and he found it the first time he laid eyes on Bree.
But her enemy isn’t so easily dispatched. In fact, Smiley, his teammates, Tex…they’ll all be shocked to learn just how resilient the man’s turned out to be. Because Castillo hasn’t just come for Bree…
He’s also come to retrieve property stolen from him years ago…by another SEAL team.
**Protecting Bree is the 7th and final book in the SEAL of Alliance Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
372 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2026
425 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
About the author
Susan Stoker
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New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
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http://www.stokeraces.com/contact-1.html
New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
Follow SUSAN:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorsstoker
www.facebook.com/authorsusanstoker
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorsusanstoker
Twitter: www.twitter.com/susan_stoker
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/susan...
Amazon: http://amzn.to/238Jw8c
For all upcoming books click here: http://www.stokeraces.com/coming-soon...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
Review of advance copy
This did not disappoint! We have been waiting for Bree’s and Smiley’s story for what seems like forever, and they were the perfect choice to wrap up the series. Both characters had hang-ups, but seeing them grow, open up, and find themselves was beautiful. Seeing them come into their own, and learn to trust each other, themselves, and the family they had made, was wonderful. And getting to see how our old friends acted and reacted in the face of danger and turmoil, felt familiar and invigorating. Everyone enjoying the lives they wanted and worked so hard for in the epilogue, that was simply the icing on the cake <3
February 24, 2026
For the last few books, it seems like Smiley has been chasing Bree, something there intrigued him and we knew she was in a bad situation. It was interesting how despite the situation Bree was in, she kept stepping in to help those around Smiley, really showed what kind of a person she was. So when these two finally "met" and talked it was great! Bree really needed some good people at her back and to help her out!
It was fun to see Bree meet everyone else and how she fit in. What wasn't so fun was when the trouble Bree was in came calling again. With some quick thinking Bree did what she could at different times to save herself and others, despite things not looking good. It was great when Bree and Smiley found each other again, despite less than great circumstances, because at least they had each other.
I liked how this one ended, loved getting the glimpse into the future and seeing how happy the crew was!
It was fun to see Bree meet everyone else and how she fit in. What wasn't so fun was when the trouble Bree was in came calling again. With some quick thinking Bree did what she could at different times to save herself and others, despite things not looking good. It was great when Bree and Smiley found each other again, despite less than great circumstances, because at least they had each other.
I liked how this one ended, loved getting the glimpse into the future and seeing how happy the crew was!
Review of advance copy
Susan Stokers has done it again! what a beautiful way to wrap up her latest series. Protecting Bree is book 7 in her SEAL of Protection: Alliance series, it follows navy seal Smiley and Bree.
Bree and Smiley first meet in book 3 of this series Protecting Josie when she gets sold and escapes thanks to Smiley, Preacher, and Blink when they rescue Josie. Smiley spends months trying to find Bree to make sure she's safe, she pops up in multiple books in the series starting in Protecting Josie and ending in her own book Protecting Bree.
Smiley is a grumpy seal who has trauma in his past and doesn't trust easily but somehow Bree is one he trusts immediately. He'll do anything and everything to make sure that Bree is safe and with him, but when things go wrong he has to rely on his team and his mentors to get Bree back.
This is a standalone but to get the full story of Bree it is recommended to read this series in order of release dates. This is a 5/5⭐ and a 2.5/5🌶️
Bree and Smiley first meet in book 3 of this series Protecting Josie when she gets sold and escapes thanks to Smiley, Preacher, and Blink when they rescue Josie. Smiley spends months trying to find Bree to make sure she's safe, she pops up in multiple books in the series starting in Protecting Josie and ending in her own book Protecting Bree.
Smiley is a grumpy seal who has trauma in his past and doesn't trust easily but somehow Bree is one he trusts immediately. He'll do anything and everything to make sure that Bree is safe and with him, but when things go wrong he has to rely on his team and his mentors to get Bree back.
This is a standalone but to get the full story of Bree it is recommended to read this series in order of release dates. This is a 5/5⭐ and a 2.5/5🌶️
January 11, 2026
A brutal and clear view of the best but also the worst humankind has to offer. It was nice to have the "older"friends joining in, despite not having clearly an idea of how old they are. It had moments in which it was heart breaking, but everything came together beautifully.
I just don't know why is it that in every series Susan Stoker feels the need of having at least one couple that doesn't want kids (nothing against it) and other that goes overboard and has a bunch...
I just don't know why is it that in every series Susan Stoker feels the need of having at least one couple that doesn't want kids (nothing against it) and other that goes overboard and has a bunch...
January 12, 2026
PROTECTING BREE (Seal of Protection: Alliance Book 7) by Susan Stoker is a long-awaited book that finally was released January 6, 2026. I finished it Jan 10, of this New Year! Jude “Smiley” Stark's had been looking for Bree Haynes ever since he rescued her when she was tied up in the back of a car. There was a lot of mixed-up chaos that night, and that was when Smiley lost track of Bree. He'd spent lots of time looking for her and he had to admit she was good at hiding. Months later he'd been thrilled that he finally had Bree in his apartment and was going to try his best to keep her there. Bree was happy to be with Smiley, but she still was afraid of the man who wanted her back. They were happy together until one mishap and Bree is gone along with two of her friends. Smiley said if she ever got taken, he would find her. Smiley always kept his promises.
January 20, 2026
I am a huge fan of Susan Stoker and was very excited for Protecting Bree after Bree's cameos in Protecting Josie, Protecting Addison, and Protecting Kelli. However, Protecting Bree was not what I had hoped it would be.
Jude "Smiley" Stark has been committed to finding and protecting Bree the moment he met her in Protecting Josie. Smiley is the perfect grumpy MC who fell first and will do anything to protect his woman. I really enjoyed Smiley and his character development in this book.
However, I did not care for Bree as much as I had hoped. Based on her three cameos, Bree Haynes appeared to be a strong, independent woman who could take care of herself. But in this book, she quickly became self-conscious and continuously doubted herself and Smiley. I feel like Bree's character is not consistent throughout this book and the series.
I also felt this book could have used some heavier editing. There were several times the book repeated the same information within just a page or two making it read slower. This book could have likely been cut down by 10 or so pages just by removing the repeated information.
Finally, I did really enjoy the cameos of characters from other series and seeing them all work together.
This book was a very slow read for me but a good overall read for dedicated Susan Stoker fans because of the cameos and the epilogue at the end to see how the SEAL of Protection: Alliance team wraps up.
Jude "Smiley" Stark has been committed to finding and protecting Bree the moment he met her in Protecting Josie. Smiley is the perfect grumpy MC who fell first and will do anything to protect his woman. I really enjoyed Smiley and his character development in this book.
However, I did not care for Bree as much as I had hoped. Based on her three cameos, Bree Haynes appeared to be a strong, independent woman who could take care of herself. But in this book, she quickly became self-conscious and continuously doubted herself and Smiley. I feel like Bree's character is not consistent throughout this book and the series.
I also felt this book could have used some heavier editing. There were several times the book repeated the same information within just a page or two making it read slower. This book could have likely been cut down by 10 or so pages just by removing the repeated information.
Finally, I did really enjoy the cameos of characters from other series and seeing them all work together.
This book was a very slow read for me but a good overall read for dedicated Susan Stoker fans because of the cameos and the epilogue at the end to see how the SEAL of Protection: Alliance team wraps up.
January 10, 2026
Great series finale!
Bree Haynes has escaped human trafficking once, but will she escape a second time when the impossible happens? Jude Stark hasn’t stopped looking for Bree since he rescued her, then had her disappear into the night when his back was turned. She haunts him. Imagine how shocked he is when she finds him!
This book is a great series finale and is very exciting! I loved it!
Emma Wilder and Aaron Shedlock are the perfect narrators for this book!
Bree Haynes has escaped human trafficking once, but will she escape a second time when the impossible happens? Jude Stark hasn’t stopped looking for Bree since he rescued her, then had her disappear into the night when his back was turned. She haunts him. Imagine how shocked he is when she finds him!
This book is a great series finale and is very exciting! I loved it!
Emma Wilder and Aaron Shedlock are the perfect narrators for this book!
January 8, 2026
I wish I had more time to write a proper review--but the short version is: I loved this story! Bree & Smiley were wonderful, fleshed-out characters, going through something horrible in addition to falling in love. And it was great to see some Stoker favorites show up in the story. This series just got better and better. Sorry to see it end.
January 11, 2026
I hate to say goodbye to another wonderful series!
The final book in Susan Stoker's Seal of Protection: Alliance series has finally arrived. I feel like I waited for Bree and Smiley's story forever! Because of that and the fact that it was the last novel in the series, I wanted to read Protecting Bree slowly, savoring every word. Of course that did not happen. From the very first page, Susan sucked me into the SEALs' world. Honestly, I stayed up late into the night, completely absorbed in this story. I didn't even notice my husband and the two dogs leaving me to go to bed!
Susan Stoker pulled out all the stops in this final book. There was more action and suspense than in any superhero movie! In many places, I held my breath wondering how Susan was going to get her protagonists out of the trouble they were in. I should know better than to question Susan Stoker! She, of course, has an exit plan for her hero and heroine! For no matter how intense the situation is, Susan's books always have a happy ending, with no cliff hangers and no cheating.
Susan Stoker did a wonderful job of wrapping up the SEAL of Protection: Alliance series. I love how she drew in all the team members and their wives, portraying the brotherhood and family love that develops in the Special Operations. Susan understands what it is to be part of an elite fighting team, how the missions form strong bonds, and how it takes strong, independent women to keep the home fires burning. There was as much love and romance as there was action. Susan did a magnificent job of balancing the romance and suspense.
I refuse to say goodbye to these characters. Thanks to Susan's fabulous character development the men and women of this series have become some of my closest friends! Yet, knowing Susan, she has another wonderful set of adventures with even better heroes planned for us. And if past series are any indication, we may see these excellent men and women again!
The final book in Susan Stoker's Seal of Protection: Alliance series has finally arrived. I feel like I waited for Bree and Smiley's story forever! Because of that and the fact that it was the last novel in the series, I wanted to read Protecting Bree slowly, savoring every word. Of course that did not happen. From the very first page, Susan sucked me into the SEALs' world. Honestly, I stayed up late into the night, completely absorbed in this story. I didn't even notice my husband and the two dogs leaving me to go to bed!
Susan Stoker pulled out all the stops in this final book. There was more action and suspense than in any superhero movie! In many places, I held my breath wondering how Susan was going to get her protagonists out of the trouble they were in. I should know better than to question Susan Stoker! She, of course, has an exit plan for her hero and heroine! For no matter how intense the situation is, Susan's books always have a happy ending, with no cliff hangers and no cheating.
Susan Stoker did a wonderful job of wrapping up the SEAL of Protection: Alliance series. I love how she drew in all the team members and their wives, portraying the brotherhood and family love that develops in the Special Operations. Susan understands what it is to be part of an elite fighting team, how the missions form strong bonds, and how it takes strong, independent women to keep the home fires burning. There was as much love and romance as there was action. Susan did a magnificent job of balancing the romance and suspense.
I refuse to say goodbye to these characters. Thanks to Susan's fabulous character development the men and women of this series have become some of my closest friends! Yet, knowing Susan, she has another wonderful set of adventures with even better heroes planned for us. And if past series are any indication, we may see these excellent men and women again!
February 1, 2026
Love, trust and safety
I have been waiting for Bree’s story and it did not disappoint. This romantic suspense story centered around an unforgettable intense encounter, danger and soulmates was Susan Stoker perfection. The author did a phenomenal job of weaving together heart-pounding action, palpable tension, unexpected twists, creepy chapters from the bad guy’s POV, and spicy romance. It made it hard to put the book down. Bree has been in hiding/living in her car for months after her ex sold her to a sex trafficker and she escaped. Smiley is a grouchy Navy SEAL. He and his teammate rescued Bree from the trafficker while they were rescuing Josie (book 3 of the series) but Bree immediately disappeared. Smiley has been looking for her ever since. Now that she’s in her town, he’s not letting her out of his sight until they catch the trafficker hunting her. With its intense beginning followed by months of no contact stalking, Smiley and Bree’s relationship develops quickly but organically moment by moment and interaction by interaction. Their love story includes sweet moments, spice, danger, suspense, painful pasts, strong friendships, swoons, and laughs. Expect to feel all the things - fear, love, anger, redemption, tears, joy, and so much all encompassing, nurturing, protective love. Susan Stoker is a master at balancing a story of romance, danger, and personal growth. And while most of us will never be in the dangerous situations the main characters are a part of, the author nevertheless makes who they are as people so relatable and real that it is easy to fall in love with them. I loved these characters and am sorry to see the end of the series. It was an added plus to see so many characters from other series. 4.5 stars.
I have been waiting for Bree’s story and it did not disappoint. This romantic suspense story centered around an unforgettable intense encounter, danger and soulmates was Susan Stoker perfection. The author did a phenomenal job of weaving together heart-pounding action, palpable tension, unexpected twists, creepy chapters from the bad guy’s POV, and spicy romance. It made it hard to put the book down. Bree has been in hiding/living in her car for months after her ex sold her to a sex trafficker and she escaped. Smiley is a grouchy Navy SEAL. He and his teammate rescued Bree from the trafficker while they were rescuing Josie (book 3 of the series) but Bree immediately disappeared. Smiley has been looking for her ever since. Now that she’s in her town, he’s not letting her out of his sight until they catch the trafficker hunting her. With its intense beginning followed by months of no contact stalking, Smiley and Bree’s relationship develops quickly but organically moment by moment and interaction by interaction. Their love story includes sweet moments, spice, danger, suspense, painful pasts, strong friendships, swoons, and laughs. Expect to feel all the things - fear, love, anger, redemption, tears, joy, and so much all encompassing, nurturing, protective love. Susan Stoker is a master at balancing a story of romance, danger, and personal growth. And while most of us will never be in the dangerous situations the main characters are a part of, the author nevertheless makes who they are as people so relatable and real that it is easy to fall in love with them. I loved these characters and am sorry to see the end of the series. It was an added plus to see so many characters from other series. 4.5 stars.
January 7, 2026
Protecting Bree is a fun, page-turning, steamy, romantic-suspense tale.
Protecting Bree is Book 7 in the SEAL of Protection: Alliance Series. And while it can be read as a standalone story, many beloved characters from other Susan Stoker books make appearances in Protecting Bree.
Bree and Smiley’s meet cute was in a previous book. Smiley rescued Bree after finding her tied up in the back of a human trafficker’s car. Since that time, Bree’s been on the run from the human traffickers that her evil ex had sold her to, as well as secretly stalking Smiley and his friends.
Bree’s stalking unexpectedly pays off when she helps save some of Smiley’s friends. And while Bree had been secretly stalking Smiley, Smiley had been searching for months for the unforgettable Bree.
Anyway, the story starts with Bree sleeping on Smiley’s couch after the latest friend rescue and is a page-turning, fun-filled, adventurous-ride from the very first page to the very last.
Bree and Smiley’s happily ever after tale has it all; respect, kindness, steamy-heat, better-together partners, the best and most loyal of friends, fun times and chaos, action-packed kidnappings, brave actions and rescues, and a most fitting, and happy, ending for all.
Protecting Bree is Book 7 in the SEAL of Protection: Alliance Series. And while it can be read as a standalone story, many beloved characters from other Susan Stoker books make appearances in Protecting Bree.
Bree and Smiley’s meet cute was in a previous book. Smiley rescued Bree after finding her tied up in the back of a human trafficker’s car. Since that time, Bree’s been on the run from the human traffickers that her evil ex had sold her to, as well as secretly stalking Smiley and his friends.
Bree’s stalking unexpectedly pays off when she helps save some of Smiley’s friends. And while Bree had been secretly stalking Smiley, Smiley had been searching for months for the unforgettable Bree.
Anyway, the story starts with Bree sleeping on Smiley’s couch after the latest friend rescue and is a page-turning, fun-filled, adventurous-ride from the very first page to the very last.
Bree and Smiley’s happily ever after tale has it all; respect, kindness, steamy-heat, better-together partners, the best and most loyal of friends, fun times and chaos, action-packed kidnappings, brave actions and rescues, and a most fitting, and happy, ending for all.
January 9, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Chef’s kiss, the perfect finale
This was exactly how you end a series.
Bree and Smiley were everything I didn’t know I needed until I got it. Bree’s arc comes full circle here—she’s exhausted, traumatized, but no longer helpless. The stalking twist? Weirdly understandable. After what she’s been through, trust doesn’t come easy, and I loved that the book didn’t sugarcoat her fear or survival instincts.
And Smiley? Obsessed, protective, unwavering—but not in a way that erases Bree’s agency. From the moment he realizes she’s been right under his nose, his focus is crystal clear: she’s his, and he’s not letting her face the danger alone ever again. The devotion. The intensity. The I want what my brothers have energy? Perfection.
The danger felt real, the stakes were high, and Mateo Castillo continuing to be a threat was such a smart move. The past catching up to everyone—not just Bree—gave this book weight and made it feel like a true culmination of the series rather than just another installment.
Action, emotion, found family, obsession done right, and a deeply satisfying payoff.
Absolute chef’s kiss of an ending. 🧑🍳💋
This was exactly how you end a series.
Bree and Smiley were everything I didn’t know I needed until I got it. Bree’s arc comes full circle here—she’s exhausted, traumatized, but no longer helpless. The stalking twist? Weirdly understandable. After what she’s been through, trust doesn’t come easy, and I loved that the book didn’t sugarcoat her fear or survival instincts.
And Smiley? Obsessed, protective, unwavering—but not in a way that erases Bree’s agency. From the moment he realizes she’s been right under his nose, his focus is crystal clear: she’s his, and he’s not letting her face the danger alone ever again. The devotion. The intensity. The I want what my brothers have energy? Perfection.
The danger felt real, the stakes were high, and Mateo Castillo continuing to be a threat was such a smart move. The past catching up to everyone—not just Bree—gave this book weight and made it feel like a true culmination of the series rather than just another installment.
Action, emotion, found family, obsession done right, and a deeply satisfying payoff.
Absolute chef’s kiss of an ending. 🧑🍳💋
January 11, 2026
What a great ending to this series. Was great to see so many from earlier books.
Bree is stalking Smiley because she wants to know if she can trust him to help her. He rescued her once in Vegas from being kidnapped after her ex sold her to human traffickers. Now she is hiding from those same people to avoid being caught again. She finally goes to Smiley and finds he has been looking for her for months. Tex is trying to find the guy looking for her but can't seem to track him other than he is in Riverton. He is also connected to the one who also took Julie and Fiona. When all three are taken from under Smiley's watch everyone goes ballistic and pulls all resources they can to try to find them. When Bree escaped a second time and gets the other two free but sacrifices herself to let the other escape and hide u til the guys can find them, she is severely beaten. Will the guys be able to find her before anything happens to her? What happens when the tracker that Smiley is dear by malfunctions and Tex can't track him? This was a great book and to see Wolf's team come together to help is great even though the are retired.
Bree is stalking Smiley because she wants to know if she can trust him to help her. He rescued her once in Vegas from being kidnapped after her ex sold her to human traffickers. Now she is hiding from those same people to avoid being caught again. She finally goes to Smiley and finds he has been looking for her for months. Tex is trying to find the guy looking for her but can't seem to track him other than he is in Riverton. He is also connected to the one who also took Julie and Fiona. When all three are taken from under Smiley's watch everyone goes ballistic and pulls all resources they can to try to find them. When Bree escaped a second time and gets the other two free but sacrifices herself to let the other escape and hide u til the guys can find them, she is severely beaten. Will the guys be able to find her before anything happens to her? What happens when the tracker that Smiley is dear by malfunctions and Tex can't track him? This was a great book and to see Wolf's team come together to help is great even though the are retired.
January 9, 2026
Great ending to this series!
Man, it feels like we’ve been waiting forever for Bree’s story, but boy was it well worth the wait! Susan totally knocked it out of the park with this one. This story will pull you in from the very first page and not let you go until the very end. I have to say that Bree is one strong and incredible lady and she is perfect for Smiley. This poor girl has been through so much in the last couple of months, but she stayed strong and still she manages to be such a thoughtful and nice person. These two brought out the best in each other and I loved watching them get to know each other better and how they interacted with each other. I also loved how Susan included Julie and Fiona and all the others from Wolf’s team. It’s great getting to catch up on what everyone is doing. And let’s not forget Tex. That man is wonderful and this story wouldn’t have been the same without him helping out as he always does. I loved this story and was sad to see it come to an end.
Man, it feels like we’ve been waiting forever for Bree’s story, but boy was it well worth the wait! Susan totally knocked it out of the park with this one. This story will pull you in from the very first page and not let you go until the very end. I have to say that Bree is one strong and incredible lady and she is perfect for Smiley. This poor girl has been through so much in the last couple of months, but she stayed strong and still she manages to be such a thoughtful and nice person. These two brought out the best in each other and I loved watching them get to know each other better and how they interacted with each other. I also loved how Susan included Julie and Fiona and all the others from Wolf’s team. It’s great getting to catch up on what everyone is doing. And let’s not forget Tex. That man is wonderful and this story wouldn’t have been the same without him helping out as he always does. I loved this story and was sad to see it come to an end.
February 1, 2026
What a way to end a series, I have been waiting on this one for a long time, and once again I was not disappointed. Bree Haynes and Jude "Smiley" Stark met in Vegas, a short while ago, but Smiley has never stopped searching for her, she captivated him in only a few short moments. Bree is tired of hiding and staying one step ahead of the man hunting for her, so finally she reaches out to Smiley for his help. There is no way that Smiley can deny anything that Bree asks for, so naturally him, his teammates, and Tex will help to keep her safe and capture the man.
Bree learns to trust Smiley and he quickly finds out that she is stronger than they both think.
You have to read this one and find out all the difficulties these two run into, while still getting to know one another. The epilogue is very special with all of the team and their families gathered together, with a surprise visit from a friend!
Thank you Susan Stoker for another wonderful series, keep them coming!!
Bree learns to trust Smiley and he quickly finds out that she is stronger than they both think.
You have to read this one and find out all the difficulties these two run into, while still getting to know one another. The epilogue is very special with all of the team and their families gathered together, with a surprise visit from a friend!
Thank you Susan Stoker for another wonderful series, keep them coming!!
January 6, 2026
And the team find themselves going full circle....
We FINALLY get Smiley and Bree's story, it's a story that we have followed throughout the series as it has taken them months to finally come together in the same place at the same time and finally admit their love.
This is an explosive, heartbreaking and haunting final book in the series, it takes the whole team back in time to when they fought an old enemy, and for some of the women...they are pulled right back into their worst nightmares and most devastating experiences.
I love how strong Bree is and that she is the perfect match to Smiley and his serious manner, she also fits into the Alliance family and group of women like a missing piece. A fantastic finale, I have loved this series and love the crossovers we get here with so many of Ms Stoker's heroes from our favourite series.
We FINALLY get Smiley and Bree's story, it's a story that we have followed throughout the series as it has taken them months to finally come together in the same place at the same time and finally admit their love.
This is an explosive, heartbreaking and haunting final book in the series, it takes the whole team back in time to when they fought an old enemy, and for some of the women...they are pulled right back into their worst nightmares and most devastating experiences.
I love how strong Bree is and that she is the perfect match to Smiley and his serious manner, she also fits into the Alliance family and group of women like a missing piece. A fantastic finale, I have loved this series and love the crossovers we get here with so many of Ms Stoker's heroes from our favourite series.
January 22, 2026
An incredible finish to a fabulous series! Poor Bree was sure put through the wringer for sure. Months of hiding and being alone, not eating or sleeping properly, before she finally gives up and seeks help from Smiley, the one man she knows instinctively she can trust, and the one that has been obsessing over her for months. He is determined to protect her, but danger is closer than expected and comes not only for her, but for a couple of other ladies who have already had to fight their own battles. History repeats itself a bit and Wolf’s team joins forces with Kevlar’s team, Tex and even Rex to find the women and end the threat once and for all. Along the way, Smiley and Bree find love with each other and within the family of Seals and their wives and kids. A wonderful epilogue gives a glimpse into the futures of all the team members and a wonderful end to the series!
January 8, 2026
Bree & Smiley
Great story! Excellent ending to the series - even if I hate when a series ends, I love the way this author wraps them up. We get to see everyone together, celebrating life & love. 💚
Bree & Smiley's story is full of friendships building & connections being made. There's steam & laughter, and of course a kidnapping or two. The strength & resilience showcased is always inspiring to me.
We get more Tex (yay!) and even some Rex! Also yay! Tying up loose ends from the original series - especially bc we didn't realize they existed - was a really fun plotting choice! I very much enjoyed that direction.
And I loved getting to know Smiley & Bree. They're so sweet together while also bringing fun banter.
😍😍😍
Great story! Excellent ending to the series - even if I hate when a series ends, I love the way this author wraps them up. We get to see everyone together, celebrating life & love. 💚
Bree & Smiley's story is full of friendships building & connections being made. There's steam & laughter, and of course a kidnapping or two. The strength & resilience showcased is always inspiring to me.
We get more Tex (yay!) and even some Rex! Also yay! Tying up loose ends from the original series - especially bc we didn't realize they existed - was a really fun plotting choice! I very much enjoyed that direction.
And I loved getting to know Smiley & Bree. They're so sweet together while also bringing fun banter.
😍😍😍
January 21, 2026
Bree and Smiley's story seemed a long time coming but it was well worth the wait and did not disappoint. He'd been fascinated by her ever since Vegas. What he doesn't know is that she's been his shadow for months while hiding in plain site. Finding her in his his apartment is a shock to say the least but finding out she's been around for as long has she has is the real kicker. When it's discovered that a former lieutenant of an old nemesis has taken over the organization and Bree is on his radar, Smiley and his teammates as well as Wolf and his team and Rex from Mountain Mercenaries along with the omniscient Tex become involved as the past seems to be replaying itself. This fantastic story got even better when old favorites join in. Susan Stoker has penned another winner!
January 30, 2026
5 stars for Protecting Bree by Susan Stoker
Another amazing read for the final book in this amazing series. Love how the OG protectors in Wolf's team are dispersed in every book. I never do this but this book made me go to the last chapter and read it before reading the book from start to finish. I had to find out that everyone was okay. Amazing storyline. The storyline closed out Fiona and Julie's storyline as well. Love Bree and Smiley together. Bree is unbelievably strong. She is a protector too. It's nice to see Bree bring out Smiley from being a loner. He loves her desperately and completely. Together, they are very hot and sexy. Love this family of teammates they have created. Can't wait for the next book of kickass women from Susan Stoker.
Another amazing read for the final book in this amazing series. Love how the OG protectors in Wolf's team are dispersed in every book. I never do this but this book made me go to the last chapter and read it before reading the book from start to finish. I had to find out that everyone was okay. Amazing storyline. The storyline closed out Fiona and Julie's storyline as well. Love Bree and Smiley together. Bree is unbelievably strong. She is a protector too. It's nice to see Bree bring out Smiley from being a loner. He loves her desperately and completely. Together, they are very hot and sexy. Love this family of teammates they have created. Can't wait for the next book of kickass women from Susan Stoker.
February 14, 2026
Wherever you are
Smiley and Bree. I was so excited to finally see Bree connecting with the group and finding family and friends. The whole team was part of this story and so was Wolf, Cookie, Hunt and Tex and Rex. Talk about some heavy hitters!! Seeing how Bree was embraced by everyone at the beginning and then fully part of both teams women/families due to what she, Fiona and Julie experienced was a perfect fit for the end of a teams journey to hea. They were not my favorite couple, but I did enjoy the idea of loving each other as is, no need to change. My highlights were seeing Tex show up and the inclusion of Ryleigh as a speaking character, not just a background resource that Tex admires. Love the SS worlds and excited to jump into another team or world dynamic.
Smiley and Bree. I was so excited to finally see Bree connecting with the group and finding family and friends. The whole team was part of this story and so was Wolf, Cookie, Hunt and Tex and Rex. Talk about some heavy hitters!! Seeing how Bree was embraced by everyone at the beginning and then fully part of both teams women/families due to what she, Fiona and Julie experienced was a perfect fit for the end of a teams journey to hea. They were not my favorite couple, but I did enjoy the idea of loving each other as is, no need to change. My highlights were seeing Tex show up and the inclusion of Ryleigh as a speaking character, not just a background resource that Tex admires. Love the SS worlds and excited to jump into another team or world dynamic.
January 14, 2026
Absolutely loved this series
Yes, you went back and grabbed some of the old characters but that made it fun. To reminisce as the story unfolded was great. Made me stop and remember the previous books. Bree is one strong character. Fiona and Julie, thrown back into being kidnapped again, yikes. To bring Rex back, so cool. And the Christmas Tree Cakes, hahaha. I loved the epilogue! I feel that is how to wrap it all together. Yes, all marriages have bad days but you need to talk them out and finish the day in the usual way. And Tex, his tucked away in his basement creating new trackers.
Yes, you went back and grabbed some of the old characters but that made it fun. To reminisce as the story unfolded was great. Made me stop and remember the previous books. Bree is one strong character. Fiona and Julie, thrown back into being kidnapped again, yikes. To bring Rex back, so cool. And the Christmas Tree Cakes, hahaha. I loved the epilogue! I feel that is how to wrap it all together. Yes, all marriages have bad days but you need to talk them out and finish the day in the usual way. And Tex, his tucked away in his basement creating new trackers.
January 20, 2026
Another great end of series book
I love each series Susan Stoker has written. The last book of each series always seems to perfectly pull things together and seeing glimpses of the heroes’ and heroines’ futures at the very end is always fun. This end of series book for Smiley and Bree might be might favorite. It was awesome to have beloved characters from Susan’s first SEAL series make an appearance and (even better) play a significant role in the story. Susan did a great job with her story telling per usual and I had a hard time putting the book down until I finished it. I’m already looking forward to her next release. Enjoy reading Protecting Bree!
I love each series Susan Stoker has written. The last book of each series always seems to perfectly pull things together and seeing glimpses of the heroes’ and heroines’ futures at the very end is always fun. This end of series book for Smiley and Bree might be might favorite. It was awesome to have beloved characters from Susan’s first SEAL series make an appearance and (even better) play a significant role in the story. Susan did a great job with her story telling per usual and I had a hard time putting the book down until I finished it. I’m already looking forward to her next release. Enjoy reading Protecting Bree!
January 7, 2026
It's high time this author writes something different.. The same old shit, it's getting too monotonous and ridiculous.. Only 1/4th of this book was romance, the rest was all fucking gory details about the kidnapping.. This is a fucking romance, so this author really needs to make sure this is a priority and not concentrate so much on giving lots of details about abductions.. And then the same nonsense about Tex... It's way way past time, this Tex character needs to just disappear altogether.. Write something new for a change.. Stop with this repetitive shit, it's getting utterly ridiculous..
January 8, 2026
This was something. I didn’t really like it. Most of the time I was just distracted by how the plot made no sense. Why did Castillo pay so much money for a 35 year old woman, in Las Vegas of all places? I don’t know a lot about human trafficking logistics, but surely it would be easy to just take drunk women in Vegas? And a 35 year old? Vegas is full of drunk women in their 20’s.
I started skimming at some point. I just wanted to read about Castillo dying, and that ended up being rather uneventful.
I started skimming at some point. I just wanted to read about Castillo dying, and that ended up being rather uneventful.
Review of advance copy
It's always hard to see a series come to an end. But boy is SS good at bringing closure to the teams. This was definitely a great way to close up this series.
I was looking forward to this book coming out - knowing that we would get to see so many of our favorite characters from previous books. And boy was I NOT disappointed. And Wolf officiating that double wedding? I wasn't even there and I wanted to cry.
Can't wait to see all our faves from this series show up again in the future.
I was looking forward to this book coming out - knowing that we would get to see so many of our favorite characters from previous books. And boy was I NOT disappointed. And Wolf officiating that double wedding? I wasn't even there and I wanted to cry.
Can't wait to see all our faves from this series show up again in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It came in this afternoon’s mail. Sat down right away (after telling everyone not to disturb me.), and read the whole thing. OMG was that a satisfying experience! I really like the involvement of characters from previous books… all the way back to the first SEAL team series. Yes, it can be read as a standalone book, but it was immensely more satisfying to experience little bits of characters from other series. It was like visiting with old friends!
January 6, 2026
Good story! I have been waiting for this one and I was not disappointed. I have always liked Bree and in here it really shows her strength of character. These two are wonderful characters that waited for the right time to come together. The action in here is palpable. I loved the addition of previous characters especially seeing Wolf’s team and Tex. The narration is nicely done. I did not love the voice of Mateo Castillo but it was tolerable.
January 12, 2026
Brilliant Finish
Another home run for Susan Stoker! The last story in her SEAL of Protection : Alliance series. Another nail biting, edge of your seat adventure. With plenty of humor and romance in the characters and dialogue that has you standing up and cheering for a happily ever after. I always LOVE how Stoker gives us a final look into all the characters from the series in her final epilogue as well, ties it all together. Thank you Susan for another amazing book!
Another home run for Susan Stoker! The last story in her SEAL of Protection : Alliance series. Another nail biting, edge of your seat adventure. With plenty of humor and romance in the characters and dialogue that has you standing up and cheering for a happily ever after. I always LOVE how Stoker gives us a final look into all the characters from the series in her final epilogue as well, ties it all together. Thank you Susan for another amazing book!
January 15, 2026
Love this!
I love this story of Smiley and Bree! Finally! We get their story. Smiley has been searching for Bree for months. Ever since he saved her and then she ran away. She came to Riverton this find him. Now he's not letting her go. Although she gets caught by the man who bought her and the team will have to save the day. I love these two together. I love this book and series. I highly recommend!! I'm going to miss this book family and their stories.
I love this story of Smiley and Bree! Finally! We get their story. Smiley has been searching for Bree for months. Ever since he saved her and then she ran away. She came to Riverton this find him. Now he's not letting her go. Although she gets caught by the man who bought her and the team will have to save the day. I love these two together. I love this book and series. I highly recommend!! I'm going to miss this book family and their stories.
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