TITLE:  Point of Danger (Triple Threat #1)
AUTHOR:  Irene Hannon
DATE:  2020
PUBLISHER: Revell
STARS: *****

Radio talk show host Eve Reilly is used to backlash from her pot-stirring on-air commentary and interviews, but now it seems a disgruntled listener is resorting to more than angry words to express their displeasure. When a suspicious package arrives on her doorstep, Eve turns to law enforcement for help.

Police detective Brent Lange can't find any evidence to link the string of unsettling incidents that follows, but he's convinced they're connected. As the harassment grows more menacing, it becomes clear someone wants Eve's voice silenced--permanently.

But unless he can track down her foe, fast, the gutsy woman who is willing to take risks for what she believes--and who is swiftly winning his heart--may not survive.
Passion abounds in Point of Danger—Eve is passionate about her beliefs, Brent is passionate about protecting her, and many are passionately eager to wreak havoc. The opening sentence ramps up the ol’ blood pressure immediately: “The package was ticking.” Great tension, and it doesn’t ease until the satisfying end.

Irene Hannon is one of my favorite authors; I’ve read most of her books, both suspense and sweet romance. I laughed out loud at her cute and subtle self-promotion, a brief, welcome light moment in this fast-paced suspense. One thing I really appreciate about Ms. Hannon’s suspense stories is that she doesn’t stoop to utilizing explicit violence. Tension, both romantic and danger create a story that I couldn’t put down.

I love Point of Danger and give it five stars. I was given a copy of this book from the publisher.
 

TITLE:  Love’s Gentle Touch
AUTHOR:  Laura Hodges Poole
DATE:  2020
PUBLISHER: Firefly Southern Fiction
STARS: *****

After escaping her husband’s deadly abuse, Misty Stephen struggles to put her life back together. With the help of counselling, the local women’s shelter and her own determination, Misty goes back to nursing at the hospital. Helping others is her passion, no matter how winsome or difficult the patient.

One patient, a young battered woman who reminds Misty of herself, quickly becomes special. Jenny’s brother, however, sparks a different kind of interest. But can she ever trust another man?

As a way to work through his grief, Jenny’s brother Adam decides to step out in faith to make a difference and asks Misty to help him. Their journey toward healing carried me with them each step of the way.

Author Laura Hodges Poole’s compassion and courage shines through her writing, and Hope’s Gentle Touch, brings to life and light the dark secrets of abusive relationships. Her portrayal of the long-term results broke my heart and made want to act on behalf of these hurting women and children.

I loved this story and highly recommend it. Hope’s Gentle Touch earns five stars. I received an ARC of this book from the author.
 

TITLE:  The Price of Valor (Global Search and Rescue #3)
AUTHOR:  Susan May Warren
DATE:  2020
PUBLISHER: Revell
STARS: ****

The Price of Valor opens with hero Hamilton (Ham) Jones and his newly discovered daughter, Aggie, along with other members of the former SEAL’s team. Shortly after, many other characters enter the scene as though the reader should know them.

I didn’t realize this is the third story of a series, as it isn’t indicated on the cover. Therefore, the assumed knowledge of the supporting case threw me. I do not recommend reading this book as a stand-alone.

In spite of that issue, the author kept the tension high and the action hot throughout the book. Even though I had to go back and check identities a few times, the pace kept me reading, eager for a positive outcome. I have read a few books by Susan May Warren, and The Price of Valor retained her signature high action.

At times, my credulity was stretched by the action, and that detracted from the story. However, the message of forgiveness and grace is strong and redeemed the plot for me. All in all, this is a good read the kept me glued to the pages until the end.

The Price of Valor earns four stars. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher.
 

TITLE:  Broken Together
AUTHOR:  Joi Copeland
DATE:  2017
PUBLISHER: Forget Me Not Romances
STARS: *****

A lot can happen in seven years. People can change for better or worse. When Zoey Fuller returns home after seven years, she is amazed at the changes she sees in her former best-but-secret friend.

In Broken Together, author Joi Copeland tackles tough subject matter with a deft combination of hope and grace. This story weaves together deepest despair and God’s compassion and forgiveness.

As Zoey’s transformation makes a difference in her students’ lives, her tentative friendship with the handsome man down the hall takes on a whole new depth. This story touched my heart, and I give it five stars.