Deserving Lara

Susan Stoker

Feb 2024 · The Refuge Book 5 · Stoker Aces Production, LLC

About this ebook

She’s a survivor, but it will take someone truly special to make her see how strong she can be.

As a former Night Stalker Army pilot, Callen “Owl” Kaufman has been in his share of dicey situations. Long-since retired from the military, he thought dangerous missions were a thing of his past, but rescuing Lara Osler from a serial killer was definitely one of the most harrowing yet. Now safe at The Refuge, Lara is struggling to heal months later…and Owl is struggling just as hard to hide his growing feelings. But he’ll do anything to help the vulnerable woman recover—even if that means letting her go.

Kidnapped by a boyfriend? Check. Held against her will by a serial killer? Check. Falling in love with her rescuer? Triple check. Lara thought her life was over, until her best friend showed up to save her with one of the most intriguing men she’d ever met. Owl is gentle, considerate, and he makes her feel safe. As time passes, Lara slowly begins to reclaim her life, thanks to the man who opened his heart and his home to a broken woman. But Owl doesn’t see her as damaged. He sees someone who’s gone through hell…and come out stronger on the other side.

But strong enough to face a serial killer? Owl and Lara both know the man who terrorized her is still out there, biding his time. Waiting for his chance to steal back what he views as his…

**Deserving Lara is the 5th book in The Refuge Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.

**

Read what others are saying about New York Times bestselling author, Susan Stoker:

"Susan Stoker is the master of military romantic suspense. She's my go-to author for sexy alpha hero and strong, sassy heroines." Riley Edwards, USAT Bestselling Author

“Susan Stoker never disappoints. She delivers alpha males with heart and heroines with moxie.” Jana Aston, NYT Bestselling Author

No one does military romance like Susan Stoker!” Corinne Michaels, NYT Bestselling Author

“Susan Stoker knows what women want. A hot hero who needs to save a damsel in distress…even if she can save herself!” CD Reiss, NYT Bestselling Author

“When you pick up a Susan Stoker book you know exactly what you’re going to get…a hot alpha hero and a smart, sassy heroine. I can’t get enough!” Jessica Hawkins, USAT Bestselling Author

“I love reading about men in uniform and Susan always delivers…the full package!” Kayti McGee

“Susan writes the perfect blend of tough, alpha heroes and strong yet vulnerable heroines. I always feel emotionally satisfied at the end of one of her stories!” Meghan March, NYT Bestselling Author

 “One thing I love about Susan Stoker’s books is that she knows how to deliver a perfect HEA while still making sure the villain gets what he/she deserves!” T.M. Frazier, NYT Bestselling Author

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Read the entire The Refuge series, starting with the USA Today bestselling start!

Defending Alaska

Defending Henley

Defending Reese

Defending Cora

Defending Lara

Defending Maisy

Defending Ryleigh

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Other readers of Stoker's books enjoyed books by: Riley Edwards, Caitlyn O'Leary, Maryann Jordan, Dale Mayer, Lynn Raye Harris, Cat Johnson, Alexis Abbott, Meli Raine, Nicole Elliot, Lori Ryan, Meghan March, Kristin Ashley, Kris Michaels, Brittney Sahin, Sharon Hamilton, Catherine Cowles, Lexi Blake, Piper Davenport, Abbie Zanders, Lani Lynn Vale, and Kristen Proby.

Ratings and reviews

The way the suspense built in this story, while still being hopeful, was scary! You knew what the pinnacle point would be, but even then, a twist was thrown in that was completely unexpected. You couldn’t help but be there with Lara and Owl for the big steps, the small steps, the set backs, and the springs forward. The bond and relationship between Cora and Lara were some of the most touching moments in the book. A BIG secret is reveled, to a point. Peril and pain walk right beside the happiness

Really enjoyed this chapter in the series. so glad that two really wounded people ( Cora and Owl) found each other. I liked that this wasn't a "simple" process and that they both will continue to deal with their challenges as they move forward. This makes them seem so real, like most all of Susan Stoker's characters. Now I just need to find some patience as we wait for Stone's story and Ryan's story. Agghhh....I hate waiting!!

yet another sleepless night of "just one more chapter...well, one more -real quick...." loved this one so much- kept me on the edge, even after the resolution! can't wait for the next 2 in the series.

About the author

New York Times, USA Today, #1 Amazon Bestseller, and #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has spent the last twenty-three years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, Texas, and Tennessee and is currently living in the wilds of Maine. She's married to a retired Army man (and current firefighter/EMT) who now gets to follow her around the country.

She debuted her first series in 2014 and quickly followed that up with the SEAL of Protection Series, which solidified her love of writing and creating stories readers can get lost in.

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