Oath of Honor Book Review

Blue Justice Series

Book One

SUMMARY:  A murdered partner.  A missing brother.  Will Isabelle's silence protect those she loves . . . or delay justice?

     Police Officer Isabelle St. John loves her crazy, loud, law-enforcement family.  She knows they'll be there for her when things get tough.  Like when her partner is murdered and she barely escapes with her own life.

     Izzy is determined to discover exactly what happened, and her investigation sends her headfirst into a criminal organization, possibly with cops on the payroll - including someone from her own family.  With her dead partner's brother Ryan, a handsome homicide detective, shadowing her every move, Izzy's head is spinning.  How can she secure justice for her partner when doing so could mean sending someone she loves to prison?  And how will she guard her heart when the man she' had a secret crush on for years won't leave her side?

REVIEW:  Do you like stories that keep you guessing, keep you turning the page to see what happens next with twists and turns that leaves you breathless? If you do, this might just be a novel you need to read.  Lynette Eason is a fabulous story teller who will wrap you up and keep you entwined until the end.  There were a few times I had to stop and think about what was happening and what had happened before moving on to keep everything straight.  The detail she gives made me feel like I was right there in the midst of the action.  I like how early on the author gives you glimpses into situations and events that play out in the end.  Probably the only complaint I have is she should have included a list of characters.  Izzy has quite a few brothers and sisters, along with friends, acquaintances and other characters who were important to the story.  Because of this, it was difficult for me at times to keep track of who was who.
     Lynette Eason has become one of my favorite suspense writers that gives you a touch of romance with the story.  Check out her latest novel.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

This book was provided by Revell for review without any compensation.

Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice series, the Deadly Reunions series, and the Hidden Identity series, as well as the Elite Guardians series.  She is the winner of two ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Readers' Choice Award.  She has a master's degree in education from Converse College and lives in South Carolina.  Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.

Imperfect Justice Book Review

Hidden Justice series

Book Two

SUMMARY:  The police say the woman was a murderer.  Emilie Wesley knows they can't be talking about her client . . . can they?

To the world it seems obvious:  Kaylene Adams killed her daughter and then was shot by police.  Attorney Emilie Wesley knows a different story:  Kaylene would never hurt anyone and was looking for a way out of a controlling, abusive relationship.  Her death shakes Emilie's belief that she can make a difference for women in violent marriages.  Self-doubt plagues her as she struggles to continue her work in the wake of the tragedy.

Reid Billings thought he knew his sister - right up until he learned how she died.  He discovers a letter from Kaylene begging him to fight for  custody of her daughters if anything should happen to her.  No attorney in her right mind would support an uncle instead of the father in a custody case, but Kaylene's letter claims Emilie Wesley will help him.

Thrown together in the race to save Kaylene's surviving daughter, Emilie and Reid pursue the constantly evasive truth.  If they can hang on to hope together, can they save a young girl - and find a future for themselves in the process?

REVIEW:  Cara Putman's latest legal drama is wonderful.  I really felt a part of the story.  As I read, I kept trying to figure out ways Emilie and Reid could prove Kaylene's innocence and save her young daughter.  Just as the main characters would get frustrated by the lack of evidence, I did too.  I like how Emilie tried to keep evidence finding above board so it wouldn't get kicked out of court and how she was determined to look under every rock and in every nook and cranny to help her former client.  Her diligence paid off.  

The secondary story of Emilie's stalker was interesting.  Having only read the last book, I was a little confused at times because some incidences that occurred in the other one that were referred to.  But the author did a good job going back over some details to help the reader.  Because of her past dating relationships, Emilie was empathetic to her clients trying to leave difficult and abusive relationships.  She could offer something other attorneys couldn't.  

Cara Putman does another amazing job.  If you like legal dramas, this might be a series for you to check out. 

This book was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group and Bethany House 

for review without any compensation.

Cara Putnam is the author of more than 25 legal thrillers, historical romances, and romantic suspense novels.  She has won or been a finalist for honor including the ACFW Book of the Year and the Christian Retailing's BEST Award.  Cara graduated high school at 16, college at 20, completed her law degree at 27, and recently received her MBA.  She is a practicing attorney, teaches undergraduate and graduate law courses at a Big Ten business school, and is a homeschooling mom of four.  She lives with her husband and children in Indiana.  She can be found on Facebook at cara.putmanwww.facebook.com/cara.putman and Twitter at @cara_putman.

Deadly Proof Book Review

Atlanta Justice

Book One

SUMMARY:  Standing for what's right could cost her everything.

Tapped as Lead Counsel in a corporate cover-up lawsuit against Mason Pharmaceutical, Kate Sullivan knows this case cold make her career.  What really drives her, though, is getting justice for the victims whose lives were ruined by the company's dangerous new drug.  But when a whistle blower turns up dead, it paints a target on the back of everyone involved. 

Former Army Ranger turned private investigator Landon James steps in to handle security for Kate.  He's still haunted by mistakes in his past and is determined never to let something like that happen again.  But it soon appears someone is willing to do anything - even commit murder - to keep the case from going to trial.  

As danger closes in, Landon can't help but admire Kate's courage and resolve - but will her determination not to back down become too great of a risk?

REVIEW:  This book captured my attention and kept it until the end.  There were many twists and turns that I had to read slowly, and sometimes go back a few pages, to make sure I didn't miss anything.  The details that the author included made me feel like I was part of the action.  

I love how Kate kept her faith in Jesus at the forefront of everything she did.  She wanted justice for those affected and family members whose lives had been changed by this drug but she wanted to do it the correct way.  Instead of going rogue and trying to get information through questionable means, she stuck to her guns, did everything by the book, and in the end, it paid off.  Her integrity is one to be admired.

Even though Landon didn't agree with Kate on faith matters, I like how he honored Kate's boundaries and listened to her when she spoke of how God brought her through difficult times.  

If you like to read page turners and good legal suspense, check this book out.  It was very enjoyable and I look forward to reading the other books in this series as they are released.  

This book was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group and Bethany House 

for review without any compensation.

Rachel Dylan writes Christian fiction including legal romantic suspense. She has practiced law for over a decade and enjoys weaving together legal and suspenseful stories. She also writes the Windy Ridge series including Trial & Tribulations and Fatal Accusation. Trial & Tribulations was a Selah finalist in 2016. She lives in Michigan with her husband and five furkids--two dogs and three cats. Rachel loves to connect with readers. You can find Rachel at www.racheldylan.com.

Rescued Hearts Book Review

SUMMARY:  Children's clothing designer Mary Wade Kimball's soft spot for animals leads to a hostage situation when she spots a briar-entangled kitten in from of an abandoned house.  Beaten, bound and gagged by the two thugs inside, Mary Wade loses hope for escape when a third villain returns with supplies.
     Discovering the kidnapped woman ratchets the complications for undercover agent Brett Davis.  Weighing the difference of ruining his three months' investigation against the woman's safety.  Brett forsakes his mission and helps her escape, the bent-on-revenge brutes following behind.
     When Mary Wade's safety is threatened once more, Brett rescues her again.  This time, her personal safety isn't the only thing in jeopardy.  Her heart is endangered as well.

REVIEW:  Something I really liked about this book was how the author did not give everything away in regards to the suspense in the book.  Reading through the story, when I thought I had everything somewhat figured out, a new twist was added.  The characters are likeable and relateable, except for the kidnappers.  One of my favorites was Brett's grandma.  She is someone I want to be like when I am much older. The ending was great.  I like how everything Mary Wade was worried about works out because she stood up for what she believed, even though it was not what her parents wanted.  This was a good book that keeps you turning pages.  Check it out.

This book was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for review without compensation.

Hope Toler Dougherty holds a Master's degree in English and taught at East Carolina University and York Technical College.  Her publications include two novels, Irish Encounter and Mars . . . With Venus Rising, as well as nonfiction articles.  A member of ACFW, RWA, and SinC, she writes for SeriousWriter.com.  She and her husband live in North Carolina and enjoy visits with their two daughters and twin sons.  Visit her at hopetolerdoughterty.com.

Pursued Book Review

The Nikki Boyd Files

Book Three

SUMMARY:  Nikki Boyd's flight into Nashville was routine - until the CRASH LANDING at the airport.
     When the dust settles, Nikki discovers that the woman who had been seated next to her on the plane is missing - and no one will admit she was ever there.  When she learns that Erika Hamilton had been flying to Nashville with an air marshal as a key witness in an upcoming grand jury trial, Nikki wonders if her disappearance from the crash site means she's running from trouble - or straight into it.  Before Nikki can even see her family, she and her team are pulled into a missing persons case where the motives are as unclear as the suspects.
     Bestselling and award-winning author Lisa Harris has planted danger around every turn in this can't-put-it-down thrill ride that will leave you stunned.

REVIEW:  As the summary says, this story will have your head spinning with everything that happens.  Nikki goes from one jaw-dropping event to another so quickly it's hard to catch your breath.  Considering this whole story happens in just 48 hours, it's a lot to take in and process.  It's a good story.  I enjoyed everything I read, but so much happens to Nikki, it's really hard to take in.  After a while, I started to wonder just what else could she go through and just how much more she could take, especially since she was running on very little sleep and very little to eat.  Good thing this is just fiction and not real life so someone would be needing a lot of therapy.
     This is the third book in this series.  It can stand alone but it so much better if you read the other ones.  The ending was good.  I'm pretty sure this is the end of the series.  If it is, too bad.  I would really like to see how Nikki and Tyler's relationship plays out.  It would also be neat to see if she gets more information about her lost sister, and maybe even find her.
     If you are interested in reading a book that will hold your attention and take you on a wild ride, you need to pick this one up.  I don't think you will be disappointed.

This book was provided by Revell for review without any compensation.

Lisa Harris is a bestselling author, a Christy Award winner, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 and 2015 from Romantic Times for her novels Blood Covenant and Vendetta.  The author of nearly thirty books, including Vendetta, Missing, and the SOUTHERN CRIMES series, Harris and her family have spent more then thirteen years living as missionaries in southern Africa.  Learn more at www.lisaharriswrites.com.

Still Life Book Review

Chesapeake Valor Series

Book Two

SUMMARY:  Someone is out there.  Watching her.  Waiting.

     Blacklisted in the photography business over a controversial shot, Avery Tate answered an ad for a crime-scene photographer.  She expected to be laughed at, but crime-scene analyst Parker Mitchell hired her outright - and changed her life.  But six months ago, when he feelings for Parker became too strong, she left his employ to sort out her heart.

     Now, for the first time, Avery is facing the world that rejeced her to attend the gallery opening of a photography exhibit for which her friend modeled.  But the only image of her friend is a chilling photo of her posing as if dead - and the photographer insists he didn't take the shot.  Worse, her friend can't be found, and so Avery immediately calls Parker for help.

     As Avery, Parker, and their friends in law enforcement dig into the mystery, they find themselves face-to-face with a relentless and deadly threat.

REVIEW:  This book had a lot going on, which was sometimes distracting and hard to follow.  Not having read the first book, I wondered if parts of Parker and Avery's relationship was covered in it because it felt like I was coming in from behind.  Then, their friends all had something going on - finding very slim evidence of a friend that disappeared many years ago, an upcoming marriage, a potential relationship between a couple of characters - which just added to my befuddlement at times.  Also, there were two different matters going on in regards to Avery's friend that disappeared that made it difficult at times to figure out who did what within the timeline and keep everything straight.  

     That said, the story was very engaging but darker than anything else I've read by this author.  The villain was very creepy and disturbing.  His actions were even creepier.  I like how Avery was determined to do everything possible to find Skyler, even if it meant going places and seeing people from her dysfunctional past that she had left behind years earlier.  I like how Parker saw Avery for who she was now, not her actions in the past.  Though he struggled with memories of his deceased girlfriend, he is determined not to let it affect the present and his attraction to Avery.  

     This was a good book.  As I mentioned, the story was darker and more menacing than other novels by this author but I am looking forward to reading the others as they come out, and, one day, the first one.

This book was provided by Bethany House for review without any compensation.

Dani Pettrey is the acclaimed author of the ALASKAN COURAGE romantic suspense series, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, Silenced, and Sabotaged.  Her books have been honored with the Daphne du Maurier award, two HOLT Medallions, two National Readers' Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing's Best Award, among others.  She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their two daughters, a son-in-law, and two super adorable grandsons.  You can find her online at www.danipettrey.com. 

Tangled Webs Book Review

 Men of Valor Series

Book Three

SUMMARY:  Finn has packed away his combat instincts - but he may need them again when danger begins to stalk his quiet hideaway . . .

     After a disastrous Middle East mission ends his six-year Army Ranger career, Finn McGregor needs some downtime.  A peaceful month in the woods sounds like the perfect way to decompress.  But peace isn't on the agenda once he crosses paths with publishing executive Dana Lewis, a neighbor who is nursing wounds of her own.  Someone seems bent on disrupting her stay in the lakeside cabin she inherited from her grandfather.  As Finn and Dana work together to discover who is behind the disquieting pranks, the incidents begin to take on a menacing tone.  And when it becomes apparent Dana's foe may have deadly intent, Finn finds himself back in the thick of the action - ready or not.

     Bestselling author and three-time RITA Award winner Irene Hannon draws readers into a web of psychological suspense where danger lurks in dark corners. . . and keeps them captive until the very last page.

REVIEW:  Another wonderful book from Irene Hannon!!!  This story starts out with a bang and just keeps the readers attention to the end.  There are three different points of view, with sometimes a fourth thrown in, but I was never confused or turned around.  I love how the stories and points of each main character are woven together in a seamless stream of intrigue.  At times, I thought I had the ending figured out, but then the author would throw something else in and I would have to change my thinking.  The conclusion of the conflicts was exciting, although a little sad, with how everything worked out.  This book is another keeper for my ever-growing collection!!
     Being the third book in the series, you don't have to read the other books to follow the story, but they do add information and background to Finn's brothers.

This book was provided by Revell for review without any compensation.

Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than fifty novels, including Buried Secrets, Thin Ice, and the Heroes of Quantico, Guardians of Justice, and Private Justice series.  In addition to many other honors, she is a seven-time finalist for and three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America.  She is also a member of that organization's elite Hall of Fame.  Learn more at www.irenehannon.com.

Without Warning Book Review

Elite Guardians Series

Book Two

SUMMARY:  Intensity.  Skill.  Tenacity.  The bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have it all.

     Katie Singleton, a partner with the Elite Guardians Protection Agency, stumbles upon her next assignment quite by accident.  Spotting blue lights at a familiar restaurant, she stops to investigate, only to discover that owner Daniel Matthews has become the target of someone who will go to any lengths to put him out of business.

     Daniel might be concerned, but he's not convinced that a bodyguard - and a female one at that - is necessary.  A new attack and his niece's urgings are enough to make him reconsider.  He and Katie must figure out who's behind the intimidation and threats - before a would-be killer strikes again.

REVIEW:  Lynette Eason keeps up her winning streak with the second book in the Elite Guardians series.  This book starts off with a bang and keeps running until the end.  There is a lot of back and forth action that you can't just skim over.  You must take your time reading or you will miss something needed to solve the puzzles.  I like how both Katie and Daniel face their PTSD triggers and are able to work through the incidences where they occur.  The ending of this book was a surprise.  I thought I had the culprit figured out but was not expecting the final conclusion. 
     This is a fabulous book.  It is a great story that can stand alone.  Reading the first one in this series will help you understand this protection agency and some of the relationships better, though, it is not necessary.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice series, the Deadly Reunions series, and the Hidden Identity series, as well as Always Watching in the Elite Guardians series.  She is the winner of an ACFW Carol Award, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Readers' Choice Award.  She lives in South Carolina.  Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.

Missing Book Review

The Nikki Boyd Files Series

Book Two

SUMMARY:  Nikki Boyd isn't usually called in on homicides; her forte is missing persons.  But when a case with two murdered and two missing pops up on a quiet suburban street, she's ready to start the investigation and find missing homeowners Mac and Lucy Hudson.  When the first clues lead her to the boat of her friend Tyler Grant - and another dead body - Nikki must untangle what ties Tyler to the Hudsons.  The clues pull her into a deadly maze of counterfeit drugs and a killer who will stop at nothing to silence anyone who threatens his business - including Nikki.

     Christy Award-winning and bestselling author Lisa Harris puts you right into the action in this face-paced thriller.

REVIEW:  The author does a great job with this book.  It is entertaining; it captured my attention from the very beginning and kept it until the end; and it kept me guessing all the way through as to who the mastermind and killer was.  The way everything slowly unraveled was frustrating as I wanted to Nikki to find Lucy and solve the mystery quickly but was brilliant in the way everything in the story was configured.  As I read, I was glad the clues were slow in coming because it kept me reading trying to figure everything out.  

     This is the second book in the series.  Lisa Harris does a great job making this a stand alone novel.  She briefly explains key elements from the first book that are relevant to this story but doesn't leave you feeling confused or goes overboard retelling the story.  Reading the first book, Vendetta, is helpful as it gives you a better background story on Nikki and Tyler's friendship and more details about the kidnapping and disappearance of Nikki's sister, but is not necessary.  I am so looking forward to the third book in this series to be released because I know it will also be a big hit.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Lisa Harris is a bestselling author, a Christy Award winner, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 from Romantic Times.  She is the author of nearly thirty books, including the Southern Crimes series and Vendetta, winner of the Romantic Times Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2015.  Harris and her family have spent twelve years living as missionaries in southern Africa.  Learn more at www.lisaharriswrites.com. 

Sins of the Past Book Review

SUMMARY:  Secrets and lies.  Danger that will never go away.  Join three beloved masters of romantic suspense for novellas where the past will not stay buried.

Dee Henderson - "Missing" 
     A Wyoming sheriff is called to Chicago when his elderly mother goes missing from her retirement community.  Paired with a savvy Chicago cop, the two soon launch into a race against the clock when they realize something dark may lie at the heart of the disappearance.

Dani Pettrey - "Shadowed"
     Adventure, romance, and danger collide when a young Alaskan fisherman nets the body of a Russian open water swimming competitor.  Another swimmer, who'd been the dead woman's roommate years ago, is pulled into the search for answers as it grows more and more clear that something sinister is at play.

Lynette Eason - "Blackout
     A young woman once implicated in a robbery gone wrong finds herself at risk years later when the real culprit is up for parole.  The loot taken that night has never been found and he believes she knows where it's hidden - only her memory of that night has always been unreliable.  Can she remember enough to find her way to safety?

REVIEW:  This novella collection is probably one of my favorites.  The authors are my go-to ones for great suspense without all the gore and junk.  If you like suspense novels, this collection is one you might want to pick up.
     In "Missing," the relationship between John and his mom is sweet and admirable.  His concern for her is one we all should have for our parents.  I also like how the developing admiration between John and Sharon, the lieutenant assigned to his mother's missing person case, does not move too quickly as in most stories but slowly over time.  The resolution of the kidnapping story was anticlimactic.  The way the story is summarized led me to believe more action and suspense would be involved. I felt it fizzled at the end.  The story line was interesting but I wonder if more could have been added.
     "Shadowed" is written as a prequel to Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series.  The suspense grabs your attention right from the beginning.  I enjoyed trying to figure out who killed Kat and why they were after Libby.  Sometimes it was a little difficult keeping track of everyone and how they were involved but that is probably my only complaint.  The story kept my attention all the way to the end.  Probably my favorite of the three novellas.
     In "Blackout," the action starts immediately and doesn't let up much until the end.  There were times when I really wanted to help Macey get her memory back.  I like how her neighbor Chad is determined to help her find out who was terrorizing her and protect her along the way.  There were times in the story I wish I had written down the past events and how they tied into Macey's memories but at the climax of the story, everything falls into place and everything is clear.  Lynette Eason did not disappoint.

This book was provided by Bethany House for review without compensation.

Dee Henderson is the author of numerous novels, including Taken, Undetected, Unspoken, Jennifer: An O'Malley Love Story, Full Disclosure, and the acclaimed O'Malley series.  Her books have won or been nominated for several prestigious industry awards, such as the RITA Award, the Christy Award, and the ECPA Gold Medallion.  Learn more at DeeHenderson.com or facebook.com/DeeHendersonBooks.

Dani Pettrey is the acclaimed author of the Alaskan Courage romantic suspense series, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, Silenced, and Sabotaged.  Her newest novel, Cold Shot, is the first book of her Chesapeake Valor series.  Her books have been honored with the Daphne du Maurier award, two HOLT Medallions, two National Readers' Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing's Best Award, among others.  You can find her online at www.danipettrey.com.

Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice series and the Deadly Reunions series, as well as No One to Trust, Nowhere to Turn, and No Place to Hide in the Hidden Identity series.  She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America.  Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.

Silence in the Dark Book Review

Logan Point Series

Book Four

SUMMARY:  Bailey Adams is running for her life . . . again.

     When Bailey Adams left Logan Point two years ago for Mexico, she thought she was getting away from her problems.  Running into her ex-fiance Danny Maxwell was not part of the plan - neither was being chased through the city by the local drug cartel, the Calatrava.  Now despite her best efforts, Danny is her only chance of escaping the people chasing her and getting back to Logan Point safely.  Can Bailey find the strength to face what's coming?  And in the midst of the chaos, can she keep herself from falling in love with her rescuer all over again?

     With lean, fast-paced prose that will keep you turning the pages, Patricia Bradley pens a superb story of suspense and second chances.

REVIEW:  This book starts off with a bang and keeps going until the end.  At times, it was a little difficult for me to keep everything straight when the action was at its peak, but other than that, I really enjoyed the story.  The author did a great job keeping me guessing about who the leader of the Calatrava was, why he and the Calatrava was after Bailey and what exactly was going to happen with Joel McDermott, Maria's uncle.  I like how the mystery was wrapped up and how the story of Bailey and Danny ended.  I thought more of the story line would involve the incident at the beginning of the book but only a few passing remarks were made about it.
     This is the fourth book in the Logan Point series.  You really need to read at least the second, third and fourth books to understand the underlying story of the missing guns and other references regarding other relationships and the pasts of some of the minor characters.  
     This is an enjoyable book and series by a somewhat local writer (she's from Corinth).  If you like some suspense and a little mystery, this might be a book series you would enjoy.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Patricia Bradley is the award-winning author of Shadows of the Past, A Promise to Protect, and Gone without a Trace.  Winner of a Daphne du Maurier Award and a Touched by Love Award, Bradley is a member of American Christians Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America and makes her home in Mississippi.  Learn more at www.ptbradley.com. 

Mermaid Moon Book Review

Sunset Cove Series

Book Two

SUMMARY:  Mallory's mother died fifteen years ago.  But her father's last words on the phone were unmistakable:  "Find . . . mother."

     Shame and confusion have kept Mallory Davis from her home for the last fifteen years, but when her dad mysteriously dies on his mail boat route, she doesn't have any choice but to go back to Mermaid Point.

     Mallory believes her father was murdered and childhood sweetheart Kevin O'Connor, game warden in Downeast Maine, confirms her suspicions.  But Kevin is wary of helping Mallory in her search.  She broke his heart and left - without a word - years ago.

     When Mallory begins receiving threats on her own life - and her beloved teenage daughter, Haylie - their search intensifies.  There's a tangled web within the supposed murder, and it involves much more than what meets the eye.

     As answers begin to fall into place, Mallory realizes her search is about more than finding her father's killer - it is also about finding herself again . . . and possibly about healing what was broken so long ago with Kevin.  She just has to stay alive long enough to put all the pieces together.

REVIEW:  Colleen Coble's latest novel will keep you guessing right until the end.  The twists and turns had me rereading the last few chapters a second time to make sure I understood everything that had happened, who was behind it and why.  There were a few people who I thought might be involved that weren't crucial and a couple I considered minor characters ended up being a major part after all.  Sometimes, though, I wished I had a list of everyone in the story, what kind of work they did, and their relation to the characters.  There were times when I had to put the book down for a day or so and when I came back, I needed help sorting out who everyone was and their relevance.
     This was an enjoyable book that helped keep my deductive reasoning skills busy.  If you like suspense along with a little romance, this book might be for you.

This book was provided by Fiction Guild and Thomas Nelson Publishers 

for review without compensation.

Colleen Coble is a RITA finalist and the the author of several bestselling romantic suspense novels, including Tidewater Inn, and the Mercy Falls, Lonestar, and Rock Harbor series. Visit her website at www.colleencoble.com, on Twitter at @colleencoble and Facebook at colleencoblebooks.

Always Watching Book Review

Elite Guardians Series

Book One

SUMMARY:  

INTENSITY.  SKILL.  TENACITY.  

The Bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have it all.

When it becomes clear that popular psychiatrist and radio personality Wade Savage has a stalker, his father secretly hires Elite Guardians to protect his son.  But, when Wade's bodyguard is attacked and nearly killed, agency owner Olivia Edwards must step in and fill the gap.

     Olivia's skills are about to be tested to the limit as Wade's stalker moves from leaving innocent gifts at his door to threatening those closest to him - including Olivia.  But in her mind, even more dangerous that the threats to her life is the hold her handsome client has on her heart.

REVIEW:  If you are looking for a book that will grab your attention from the beginning and keep it until the end, Lynette Eason's latest novel is one you need to read.  She does a great job twisting and turning the story, keeping you guessing until the end, and making the reader feel like you are there watching everything unfold.  

     It is admirable how Olivia steps up and fills in the slot left by her injured employee and how she cares for each one deeply. They are treated like family.  The love held by Wade and his daughter is commendable.  As a single dad, he does his best to be there for his daughter Amy, even helping her find her calm place when she has an anxiety attack.

     A couple of times it felt like information was left out in regards to the back stories of the members of the Elite Guardian Agency.  But, having read Ms. Eason's novels before, any gaps that may seem there will be filled in during the rest of the series.  

     There were a LOT of characters to keep track of.  If I had to set the book down for a while, I often wished there was a list reminding me who's who and how they tied in to the plot.  But, that is my only complaint.  

     This book and upcoming series is one I highly recommend.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

 

Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice, the Deadly Reunions, and the Hidden Identity series.  She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and romance Writers of America.  She lives in South Carolina.  Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.

Vendetta Book Review

The Nikki Boyd Files Series

Book One

SUMMARY:  No one needs to push Nikki Boyd to excel on the Tennessee Missing Persons Task Force.  The case of her own missing sister, still unsolved after ten years, is the driving force in her work.  When a Polaroid photo of a missing girl shows up at a crime scene, Nikki quickly recognizes similarities to the past.  The closer she gets to the abductor, the more she feels this case has become personal, and she is not the hunter . . . but the hunted.

     With this explosive first book in The Nikki Boyd Files, award-winning author Lisa Harris takes you on a fast-paced pursuit of justice that will have you holding your breath until the heart-stopping finish.

REVIEW:  The complexity of the story combines the current abduction of Bridget with the abduction of Nikki's sister, Sarah, ten years earlier.  Also throw in revenge from an accidental shooting and the vastness of the Great Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg, TN for a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.  There were many times I wondered if Nikki would be able to find Bridget in time and how she, and her co-workers would get out of a couple of very sticky situations.  The emotions you go through as you read are all over the place.  You might feel frustration with Bridget for the things she did leading up to her abduction; scared when Nikki gets a strange phone call in the middle of the night; anxious when Nikki and her co-workers are put in some very dangerous situations and happiness when family is reunited.  The way the book wrapped up the story was very good.  It kept me turning pages, eager to see what happened next and wondering how everything would work out.

     This is a great book and I am excited to read the next few books in this series.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

 

Lisa Harris is a Christy Award winner and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 from Romantic Times.  The author of nearly thirty books, including Dangerous Passage, Fatal Exchange, and Hidden Agenda, Harris and her family have spent twelve years living as missionaries in southern Africa.  They currently live in Mozambique.  Learn more at www.lisaharriswrites.com.

Gone Without A Trace Book Review

Logan Point series

Book Three

SUMMARY:  The past is repeating itself - and time is running out.

     It's been more than two years since homicide detective Livy Reynold's cousin disappeared from Logan Point.  Unlike most people in her hometown, Livy has never believed that Robyn left voluntarily.  When Dallas private investigator Alex Jennings contacts her concerning a senator's missing granddaughter who was last seen in Logan Point, Livy notices eerie similarities between the two disappearances.  With self-doubt plaguing her and an almost instant dislike of the self-assured PI, she's finding this investigation an uphill battle.  But with the prospect of finding her cousin on the horizon, she'll have to find a way to work with Alex - before it's too late.

     Award-winning author Patricia Bradley keeps you n the edge of your seat with a case - and a relationship - that is anything but certain.

REVIEW:  I was intrigued by the story of a possible serial kidnapper in small-town Mississippi and wasn't disappointed.  Patricia Bradley's latest novel comes out of the starting gate with a bang and will keep you on the edge of your seat, quickly turning pages to see what happens next.  The ending was supberb!!  She kept me guessing about what would happen next and who the kidnapper is.  I liked Livy's ability to face her fears and do what was needed to accomplish her goals.   One of my favorites things about this book and series is that the setting is in North Mississippi, not far from my hometown, and mentions places that I am familiar with in Memphis and the surrounding area.  

     This book and series is one to check out.  Even though it is the third book, you don't need to read the others to understand everything in this one.  They are helpful for backgrounds on some characters and a few other situations that are mentioned.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

 

Patricia Bradley is the winner of a 2012 Daphne du Maurier Award and a 2012 Touched by Love Award and was also a finalist for the 2012 Genesis Award.  The author of Shadows of the Past and A Promise to Protect, she is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America.  Bradley makes her home in Mississippi.  Learn more at www.ptbradley.com. 

No Place to Hide Book Review

Hidden Identity Series

Book Three

SUMMARY:  She'll defend her friend until the bitter end - but is she in over her head?

     It's not every day you see your childhood friend and onetime crush on national news.  Jackie Sellers just wishes it were under different circumstances.  She can't believe that Ian Lockwood is wanted in connection with a terrorist plot, and she's determined to find him and help him clear his name.  Unfortunately, she's not the only one looking for him.  The FBI wants him captured.  The bad guys want him dead.  Ian just wants to stay alive long enough to prove his innocence and prevent a catastrophe.

     Lynette Eason delivers nonstop action as Jackie and Ian travel a dangerous road - one that may lead straight to destruction.

REVIEW:  If you are looking for a novel that will keep you guessing, turning the page in anticipation, and trying to figure out who is involved and how, this is the book for you.  Lynette Eason does a wonderful job keeping you on your toes.  The constant twists and turns will leave you dizzy at times but just adds to the suspense.  There were times I thought I had everything figured out, but the author doesn't make it easy.  The story happens over a period of seven days.  A LOT happens in that week.  Sometimes it seems like too much goes on in that short time span but when you look at the intentions of the terrorists and what they need to do to accomplish their goal, it all makes sense.  This is a wonderful book and a great way to wrap up this series.  

     Now, this is the third book of the Hidden Identity series.  You do not need to read the other books before this one but it is nice to have a little reference for Operation Refuge and their employees. 

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice series and the Deadly Reunions series, as well as No One to Trust and Nowhere to Turn.  She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America.  She has a master's degree in education from Converse College, and she lives in South Carolina.  Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.

Buried Secrets Book Review

Men of Valor Series

Book One

SUMMARY:  They both wanted quieter, safer lives.  But crime never sleeps . . . and killers keep killing.

     After years as a Chicago homicide detective, Lisa Grant is ready for the kinder, gentler life of a small-town police chief.  But the discovery of a human skeleton by a construction crew at the edge of town taxes department resources.  Enter ex-Navy SEAL Mac McGregor, the detective sent by the county to assist on the case.  As they work to solve the mystery behind the unmarked grave, danger begins to shadow them.  Someone doesn't want this dead person telling any tales - and will stop at nothing to make certain a life-shattering secret stays buried.

REVIEW:  When I heard this book was coming out, I was eager to read it. As always, Irene Hannon's latest novel did not disappoint.  She has you sitting on the edge of your seat, quickly turning pages to see what happens next. While I was able to figure some of the ending, I was not able to figure out how all the twists and turns would play out, which was wonderful.  Like in real life, the bad guy doesn't get everything deserved, but just dues are paid handsomely.  My heart went out to the victim and her family.  Stories like her's are so sad.  I was very happy her family finally had some closure. 

     If you like wonderful suspense novels that keep you guessing, this is one you might want to pick up.  

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

 

Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of more than forty-five romantic suspense and contemporary romance/women's fiction novels, including the Heroes of Quantico, Guardians of Justice, and Private Justice series.  Her books have garnered dozen of honors, including two coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America.  She is also a two-time Christy Award Finalist.  More information about her and her novels can be found on her webpage at www.irenehannon.com.

Sabotaged Book Review

Alaskan Courage Series

Book Five

SUMMARY:  Finally Returned Home, Reef McKenna Finds His Beloved Alaska Facing Its Greatest Threat

     Growing up, goody-two-shoes Kirra Jacobs and trouble-maker Reef McKenna were always at odds.  Now as they work search-and-rescue together for Alaska's arduous Iditarod race, a growing attraction seems to be forcing aside old arguments.  Then Reef catches Kirra sneaking from camp in the middle of the night.

     Kirra's uncle, a musher in the race, has disappeared.  Kirra and Reef quickly track the man, but what they discover is harrowing:  Frank's daughter has been kidnapped.  Kirra and Reef, along with the entire McKenna family, are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl's life - but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen.

REVIEW:  The last book in Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series lives up to the reputation of the previous ones.  It is fast-paced with a plot that keeps you guessing how it will all work out.  Kirra is determined to find her cousin, but to do so, she has to face a very traumatic time in her life.  I love her strength and how she finally tells someone what happened and how supportive Reef was.  Even though the timeline for their relationship develops pretty quickly, I like how the author explained it and understood why.  The ending of the book, in the Epilogue, is a little cheesy, but I like cheesy.  

     If you are looking for a book and/or a series that will keep you on your toes as you try to guess the ending, this is one you will want to check out.  Now, this book would probably be okay as a stand-alone.  But, to fully understand the McKenna family and their significant others and all the family dynamics, I would suggest reading them in order.  My daughter and I love this series and hate that it is coming to an end.

This book was provided by Bethany House for review without compensation.

 

Dani Pettrey  is the acclaimed author of the Alaskan Courage series.  Her books have been honored with the Daphne du Maurier award, two HOLT Medallions, two National Readers' Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing's Best Award, among others.  She and her family live in Maryland.  You can find her online at danipettrey.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DaniPettrey.

Hidden Agenda Book Review

Southern Crimes Series

Book Three

SUMMARY:  His cover is blown.  Now his enemies are on his heels and closing in.

     Presumed dead by friends and family, Michael Hunt is alive - and on the run.  The undercover assignment he's been working for the past eight months has just been blown.  With a hit out on his life and corruption inside the Atlanta police department, Michael finds himself hunted by both the cartel and the law.  His only hope is Olivia Hamilton - the daughter of the man who wants him dead.

      This nonstop chase from Christy Award-winning Lisa Harris will leave you breathless.

REVIEW:  This book starts with a heart-pounding scene and barely lets up all the way through to the end.  Sometimes it's hard to get a handle on the timeline (only a week) because so much happens to the characters.  My heart goes out to Olivia and her brother Ivan as they discover everything they thought they knew to be a lie and people they trusted weren't who they thought they were.  All throughout the story, I kept guessing how everything would end and never had it figured out.  This is a good book that will keep you in suspense until the end.

     Even though this is the last in the series, you don't have to read the other two books.  If you do read them, you will fully understand Michael's undercover job and how his "death" affected his family and their jobs.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

 

Lisa Harris is the award-winning author of more than twenty books, including the Christy Award winner Dangerous Passage and Fatal Exchange.  Winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 from Romantic Times, Harris has spent over ten years living with her family as missionaries in Mozambique, where she leads a women's group and runs a nonprofit organization that works alongside their church-planting ministry.  Visit www.lisaharriswrites.com for more.

A Promise to Protect Book Review

Logan Point Series

Book Two

SUMMARY:  In a steamy small town riddled with broken promises, one woman's secret could change everything.

     Acting Sheriff Ben Logan hasn't heard from Leigh Sommerall in a very long time, but it doesn't mean he can get her - or their whirlwind romance of ten years ago - out of his head.  When she calls out of the blue, it is with a strange request to protect her brother, Tony.  But all too soon, Ben is charged with a different task - protecting Leigh from the people after her brother.  With Leigh doing everything in her power to avoid Ben, it's no easy task.  And the secret she is keeping just may change their lives forever.

REVIEW:  A Promise to Protect is the follow up book to Shadows of the Past.  Like it's predecessor, this novel kept my attention and kept me guessing about the final outcomes.  I like the setting, as fictional town of Logan Point is located not far from I where I grew up.  The different stories about Leigh and Ben, Ben's father, Tony and the dog fighting ring and all their difficulties were woven together seamlessly and effortlessly. The details of the mysteries involved are laid out with meticulous precision.  This is a wonderful book and series.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Patricia Bradley is thhe winner of a 2012 Daphne du Maurier Award and a 2012 Touched by Love award, and was also a finalist for The 2012 Genesis Award.  The author of Shadows of the Past, she is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America and makes her home in Mississippi.  Learn more at www.ptbradley.com.