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coralcrab77's review against another edition
adventurous
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
3.0
it was fine. didnt vibe with the insta-love
iamnottrisha's review against another edition
3.0
It took a hot minute to get past the muddled feelings Sam had for Roman when she first met him. But over all it’s was a fairly good rescue romance with some interesting twists and turns.
justlarissareads's review against another edition
4.0
Roman is a special ops mercenary who has made it his life’s mission to take down a huge sex trafficking ring. Sam is his current target to save. She’s a teacher and Roman has done everything he possibly can to learn as much about her before completing the task. He’s now in love with her. How will that affect the outcome of his decisions when taking down this trafficking ring?
Be sure to check trigger warnings should you need to. There is a lot of dark material. This story will get your adrenaline going as Rowan fights against all odds to save Sam. There were plot twists that I didn’t even see coming!
I really enjoyed this book. I’m glad I found this author, I love her writing style and this world that she’s created. I can’t wait for the next book and I’m going to dive into her backlist too!
Age Gap, Suspense, Insta-Love, Survival
4/5⭐️
3/5
Be sure to check trigger warnings should you need to. There is a lot of dark material. This story will get your adrenaline going as Rowan fights against all odds to save Sam. There were plot twists that I didn’t even see coming!
I really enjoyed this book. I’m glad I found this author, I love her writing style and this world that she’s created. I can’t wait for the next book and I’m going to dive into her backlist too!
Age Gap, Suspense, Insta-Love, Survival
4/5⭐️
3/5
booksplantsandtea's review against another edition
4.0
Her Mercenary is a romantic suspense that sucks you right in with skilled writing and mystery elements that keeps you guessing. I mean, seriously, even though I'd figured out one of the plot twists, I did NOT see the end coming, even though in hindsight it all makes sense!
As Samantha finds herself enslaved at the hands of an ever-growing human trafficking organization, the themes in this book are quite dark. Definitely check the trigger warnings before reading this book (included at the end of the review).
The thing I marveled at the most, was the psychology behind it all. It was very well researched, and explained and integrated beautifully in the story. I loved to get an insight in the effects of the situation on Samantha, and that she withstood most of the manipulation tactics by going to her safe place. That's the power of true human resiliency right there.
And then the romance. Some great tropes were used in this one. We've got an age gap romance between Roman (42) and Samantha (29) who have to survive in the jungle (forced proximity, survival) and outrun the human trafficking guards. Roman is very protective 'touch her and you die' (literally) and 'I'll find you' emotionally closed off mercenary on a mission, who gradually opens himself up to love languages (who'd have thought) and love itself. The romance is very much in the small moments in this book, the smiles between them, the shared intimacy of insight in their pasts and core values, the playful moments, caring for each others wounds... All of that makes this such a beautiful love story. But, (yes sadly there is a but), even though it was a very high pressure environment which would heighten feelings of safety and love, I would've loved to have experienced their falling in love a bit more before the big I love you's, which to me felt a bit rushed (because I'm really not into instalove).
Beware of the next trigger warnings (TW): human trafficking, rape, choking, abuse, violence, killing and death in various ways.
*I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own* Thank you!
As Samantha finds herself enslaved at the hands of an ever-growing human trafficking organization, the themes in this book are quite dark. Definitely check the trigger warnings before reading this book (included at the end of the review).
The thing I marveled at the most, was the psychology behind it all. It was very well researched, and explained and integrated beautifully in the story. I loved to get an insight in the effects of the situation on Samantha, and that she withstood most of the manipulation tactics by going to her safe place. That's the power of true human resiliency right there.
And then the romance. Some great tropes were used in this one. We've got an age gap romance between Roman (42) and Samantha (29) who have to survive in the jungle (forced proximity, survival) and outrun the human trafficking guards. Roman is very protective 'touch her and you die' (literally) and 'I'll find you' emotionally closed off mercenary on a mission, who gradually opens himself up to love languages (who'd have thought) and love itself. The romance is very much in the small moments in this book, the smiles between them, the shared intimacy of insight in their pasts and core values, the playful moments, caring for each others wounds... All of that makes this such a beautiful love story. But, (yes sadly there is a but), even though it was a very high pressure environment which would heighten feelings of safety and love, I would've loved to have experienced their falling in love a bit more before the big I love you's, which to me felt a bit rushed (because I'm really not into instalove).
Beware of the next trigger warnings (TW): human trafficking, rape, choking, abuse, violence, killing and death in various ways.
*I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own* Thank you!
sedaniels's review against another edition
3.0
Eh
Super privileged chick gets stolen for reasons amidst an info dumping, slow and boring backdrop. Gets semi-rescued by a Merc on a revenge mission. They fall in love in three days.
Missing plot points, a quick supernatural encounter for no reason, loads of telling.
Barely romantic, minimal thrills.
2.5 stars
Super privileged chick gets stolen for reasons amidst an info dumping, slow and boring backdrop. Gets semi-rescued by a Merc on a revenge mission. They fall in love in three days.
Missing plot points, a quick supernatural encounter for no reason, loads of telling.
Barely romantic, minimal thrills.
2.5 stars
iamtannie's review against another edition
5.0
ARC!
Now this is a good book!! It has it all: drama, great plot, amazing characters, and well written.
The book follows Sam and Roman. Roman is an "agent" working for a private company who could easily be called spies.
The book starts horrible, not because it's bad, on the contrary, what Sam goes through since the very first pages and chapters is horrible; spoiler: SHE LOST A FREAKING FINGER! I cried like a baby!!
Roman was enamored with Sam, he researched her and got to know her by following her story and her everyday life in order to find her.
He eventually goes rogue and goes after her.
This is kinda of a slow burn, cause there are a couple of chapters even before they meet.
And did I search even when I was reading the book ahead to know when, YES I DID! i was getting anxious.
But once they met, it was beautiful. They are kind soulmates, and honestly their attraction was right from the start, but it also felt strange and fast. They felt attracted to each other, and specially from her POV it was really "strange". Now she does express how weird it is to fall for him so fast, but as an avid readier not really LOL I've read worst and falling for your personal hero isn't that weird.
The characters have amazing development, and the storyline is really good and solid. What is better is that Sam grows exponentially in the book. She grows into an amazing woman, she already was (being a teacher and all) but now she learned to be strong, she learned to fight and survive. She fought for someone else than her and that to me earned her points.
Now did i wish a longer epiloge? Yes. I felt like they finally had had their HEA but it was really short and I wanted to read more.
Check CW!!
Tropes: Heroine in danger, alpha protector, survival,
Now this is a good book!! It has it all: drama, great plot, amazing characters, and well written.
The book follows Sam and Roman. Roman is an "agent" working for a private company who could easily be called spies.
The book starts horrible, not because it's bad, on the contrary, what Sam goes through since the very first pages and chapters is horrible; spoiler: SHE LOST A FREAKING FINGER! I cried like a baby!!
Roman was enamored with Sam, he researched her and got to know her by following her story and her everyday life in order to find her.
He eventually goes rogue and goes after her.
This is kinda of a slow burn, cause there are a couple of chapters even before they meet.
And did I search even when I was reading the book ahead to know when, YES I DID! i was getting anxious.
But once they met, it was beautiful. They are kind soulmates, and honestly their attraction was right from the start, but it also felt strange and fast. They felt attracted to each other, and specially from her POV it was really "strange". Now she does express how weird it is to fall for him so fast, but as an avid readier not really LOL I've read worst and falling for your personal hero isn't that weird.
The characters have amazing development, and the storyline is really good and solid. What is better is that Sam grows exponentially in the book. She grows into an amazing woman, she already was (being a teacher and all) but now she learned to be strong, she learned to fight and survive. She fought for someone else than her and that to me earned her points.
Now did i wish a longer epiloge? Yes. I felt like they finally had had their HEA but it was really short and I wanted to read more.
Check CW!!
Tropes: Heroine in danger, alpha protector, survival,
hrstobo's review against another edition
5.0
Amanda brings us back to the Steele Shadows world and I could not be happier! Once again she paints a picture that leaves you wanting more. This time she tackles human trafficking, and brings us the terrifying assault to the body, mind and soul. Her characters always have depth and Sam and Roman do not disappoint. Each brings a strength that they did not know they had but will need to get them out of this situation. Page turning angst that I could not put down.
If you love strong characters, a story that will keep you wanting more page after page this book is for you!
I received a free copy of this book.
If you love strong characters, a story that will keep you wanting more page after page this book is for you!
I received a free copy of this book.
debrichmond's review against another edition
4.0
Roman Thieves aka Ardri is a mercenary who has been after sex trafficker Colin Cussane for years. When he is called on to rescue schoolteacher Samantha Greene, it’s the opportunity he’s been waiting for. He’s been told this woman has important information that will lead him to Cussane. Roman swoops into Mexico, finds Sam, but when he kills two men as they are attacking her, his plan goes out the window, and they set no off on foot through the Sierra Madres.
Her Mercenary has some amazing qualities. Roman is a fantastic, well-written character whom I’d like to see in future books. I love that Sam has been through a horrific ordeal, but manages to find her inner strength and assist in rescuing other victims. She’s not just a damsel in distress. McKinney takes her time, slowly weaving a narrative that gives us a good foundation for the rest of the story. We learn Roman’s history and the details of the sex trafficking ring as well as the reason behind his search for Cussane. It makes for a good romantic thriller. My only quibble is that the book just ends. I would’ve liked a little bit more story or an epilogue.
If you like a lot of action, you’ll enjoy Her Mercenary. It’s part of an interconnected series, but can be read as a standalone. Be sure to let me know what you think - I’d I love to discuss. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Her Mercenary has some amazing qualities. Roman is a fantastic, well-written character whom I’d like to see in future books. I love that Sam has been through a horrific ordeal, but manages to find her inner strength and assist in rescuing other victims. She’s not just a damsel in distress. McKinney takes her time, slowly weaving a narrative that gives us a good foundation for the rest of the story. We learn Roman’s history and the details of the sex trafficking ring as well as the reason behind his search for Cussane. It makes for a good romantic thriller. My only quibble is that the book just ends. I would’ve liked a little bit more story or an epilogue.
If you like a lot of action, you’ll enjoy Her Mercenary. It’s part of an interconnected series, but can be read as a standalone. Be sure to let me know what you think - I’d I love to discuss. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
debrichmond's review against another edition
4.0
Roman Thieves aka Ardri is a mercenary who has been after sex trafficker Colin Cussane for years. When he is called on to rescue schoolteacher Samantha Greene, it’s the opportunity he’s been waiting for. He’s been told this woman has important information that will lead him to Cussane. Roman swoops into Mexico, finds Sam, but when he kills two men as they are attacking her, his plan goes out the window, and they set no off on foot through the Sierra Madres.
Her Mercenary has some amazing qualities. Roman is a fantastic, well-written character whom I’d like to see in future books. I love that Sam has been through a horrific ordeal, but manages to find her inner strength and assist in rescuing other victims. She’s not just a damsel in distress. McKinney takes her time, slowly weaving a narrative that gives us a good foundation for the rest of the story. We learn Roman’s history and the details of the sex trafficking ring as well as the reason behind his search for Cussane. It makes for a good romantic thriller. My only quibble is that the book just ends. I would’ve liked a little bit more story or an epilogue.
If you like a lot of action, you’ll enjoy Her Mercenary. It’s part of an interconnected series, but can be read as a standalone. Be sure to let me know what you think - I’d I love to discuss. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Her Mercenary has some amazing qualities. Roman is a fantastic, well-written character whom I’d like to see in future books. I love that Sam has been through a horrific ordeal, but manages to find her inner strength and assist in rescuing other victims. She’s not just a damsel in distress. McKinney takes her time, slowly weaving a narrative that gives us a good foundation for the rest of the story. We learn Roman’s history and the details of the sex trafficking ring as well as the reason behind his search for Cussane. It makes for a good romantic thriller. My only quibble is that the book just ends. I would’ve liked a little bit more story or an epilogue.
If you like a lot of action, you’ll enjoy Her Mercenary. It’s part of an interconnected series, but can be read as a standalone. Be sure to let me know what you think - I’d I love to discuss. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️