Tag Archives: Rachel Dylan

Top 10 Tuesday — Suspense on My Shelves!

6 Jun

Last week’s Top Ten Tuesday featured the suspense-filled novels that I am anxiously awaiting in the coming months. This week the folks at The Broke And The Bookish want to know what books I have recently added to my burgeoning library, so I am featuring the suspense novels that already reside on my shelves, whispering and sometimes shouting pick me! LOL! To find out what other bloggers have added to their home libraries, click HERE.

 

 

8 Suspense Novels on My Shelves

Chasing Secrets by Lynette Eason

Elite Guardians bodyguard Haley Callaghan may be in South Carolina, but when a photo leads investigators in West Ireland to open a twenty-five-year-old cold case, her life is suddenly in danger. Haley knows how to take care of herself; after all, she’s made a career out of taking care of others. But after an uncomfortably close call, Detective Steven Rothwell takes it upon himself to stay with her — and the young client she has taken under her wing. A protector at heart, he’s not about to let Haley fight this battle alone.

Deadly Proof by Rachel Dylan (ARC)

In the biggest case of her career, attorney Kate Sullivan is tapped as lead counsel to take on Mason Pharmaceutical because of a corporate cover-up related to its newest drug. After a whistleblower dies, Kate knows the stakes are much higher than her other lawsuits.

Former Army Ranger turned private investigator Landon James is still haunted by mistakes made while serving overseas. Trying to forget the past, he is hired by Kate to look into the whistleblower’s allegation and soon suspects that the company may be engaging in a dangerous game for profit. He also soon finds himself falling for this passionate and earnest young lawyer.

Determined not to make the same mistakes, he’s intent on keeping Kate safe, but as the case deepens, it appears someone is willing to risk everything — even murder — to keep the case from going to trial.

Deep Extraction by DiAnn Mills

A pacemaker should have saved oil and gas magnate Nathan Moore’s life. Instead, it provided his killer with a seemingly perfect means of execution.

A bombing at one of Nathan’s oil rigs days earlier indicates his death could be part of a bigger conspiracy, a web Special Agent Tori Templeton must untangle. But her first order of business is separating the personal from the professional—the victim’s wife, her best friend, is one of the FBI’s prime suspects.

Clearing Sally’s name may be the biggest challenge of her career, but Tori finds an unexpected ally in the newest member of the task force, recently reinstated Deputy US Marshal Cole Jeffers. As Tori and Cole dig deeper into Nathan’s personal and business affairs, they uncover more than they bargained for. And the closer they get to finding the real killer—and to each other—the more intent someone is on silencing them for good.

Invitation by Bill Myers, Frank Peretti, Angela Hunt, and Alton Gansky

BRENDA – The street-hustling tattoo artist who sees images of the future.

THE PROFESSOR – The atheist ex-priest ruled by logic.

ANDI – The professor’s brilliant but geeky assistant who sees inexplicable patterns

TANK – The naïve, big-hearted jock with a surprising connection to a healing power.

The four find out that pockets of darkness are emerging throughout the world. Whether it involves a mysterious house, the unexplainable death of animals around the world, or an otherworldly little girl, each mystery they solve brings them closer to the ultimate explanation of what’s happening. What will happen if they don’t solve the mysteries in time?

Magnolia Moonlight by Mary Ellis

Natchez, Mississippi — Private Investigator Nate Price and his new wife, Isabelle, need a vacation. Their coworkers generously team up to surprise them with a belated honeymoon…but the happy trip turns sour when Izzy spies her ex-husband, who appears to have taken up his gambling addiction once again.

While the boss is away, Price Investigations remains in the hands of Beth Kirby, a former police officer, and Michael Preston, a former forensic accountant. Hardly a dream team, as Beth resents working with a man who has no experience in his new job.

But Beth and Michael must move past their differences if they hope to uncover the truth behind a beloved Southern preacher’s demise. The preacher’s widow suspects foul play, despite the evidence indicating suicide.

With tension escalating between these investigators and local law enforcement — and new threats arising on all sides — how will Beth, Michael, and Nate hold on to faith and bring the truth to light?

Storm of Attraction by Lily Black

Love is worth fighting for. Alexa Wolving has just one rule: never give a guy a second chance. That works just fine in the safe life she’s built. In the charming town of Willowdale, her day job as a librarian balances perfectly with her evening job as a black belt instructor. But when she attracts the attention of a stalker, Alexa’s carefully built world begins to crumble. Drew Cosimo knows he broke Alexa’s heart five years ago when he took his first Ranger assignment and disappeared from her life. Now that he’s out of the army, he’s moving back home to Willowdale. He’s not looking for a fight, but making peace would be easier if Alexa hadn’t told the entire town he was a money-grubbing jerk. Despite the tension between them, Drew is quick to offer his protection when a stalker forces Alexa from her home. As the stalker’s attacks escalate, Alexa and Drew are forced to face their painful past and the simmering attraction between them. They must fight to save each other before everything they care about goes up in flames.

Sunset in Old Savannah by Mary Ellis

Private investigators Beth Kirby and Michael Preston are hired by wealthy socialite Evelyn Doyle of Savannah, Georgia, to prove her husband is cheating on her. During the surveillance, the husband ends up dead and Mrs. Doyle becomes the prime suspect. Is Evelyn the real killer or is it the shady business partner? Did they find a mistress? 

 

Threads of Suspicion by Dee Henderson

Get inside the minds of Evie Blackwell and the best of the best investigative team as they re-open cold cases for the Governor’s new Missing Persons Task Force. Each has their own style when it comes to their search methods.  Become a part of the intense details and find yourself on the edge of your seat as they pull that next thread that leads them yet another step closer to finding the abductors.

 

Which one should I read first?

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Top 10 Tuesday: Suspenseful Waiting

30 May

When I began making a list for the books I can’t wait to meet this year, I noticed one thing. They were all suspense novels! Whether the books have contemporary or historical settings, take place in the courtroom or on the mean streets, or involve a bit of romance, I love this genre! So this week’s Top 10 Tuesday features the 9 Suspense Novels I Cannot Wait to Read.  For what other bloggers are waiting on, visit The Broke And The Bookish.

 

Top 9 Suspense Novels I Cannot Wait to Read

Dangerous Illusions by Irene Hannon (available October 2017)

Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death–and puts Trish under police scrutiny–her world is once again thrown into turmoil.

Detective Colin Flynn isn’t certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge–and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn’t just dangerous . . . it’s deadly.

 

Deadly Proof by Rachel Dylan (available September 2017)

In the biggest case of her career, attorney Kate Sullivan is tapped as lead counsel to take on Mason Pharmaceutical because of a corporate cover-up related to its newest drug. After a whistleblower dies, Kate knows the stakes are much higher than her other lawsuits.

Former Army Ranger turned private investigator Landon James is still haunted by mistakes made while serving overseas. Trying to forget the past, he is hired by Kate to look into the whistleblower’s allegation and soon suspects that the company may be engaging in a dangerous game for profit. He also soon finds himself falling for this passionate and earnest young lawyer.

Determined not to make the same mistakes, he’s intent on keeping Kate safe, but as the case deepens, it appears someone is willing to risk everything–even murder–to keep the case from going to trial.

 

Fatal Trust by Todd M. Johnson (available August 2017)

Ian Wells is a young criminal defense attorney struggling to build a Minneapolis law practice he inherited from his father while caring for a mother with Alzheimer’s. Nearly at the breaking point, everything changes for Ian when a new client offers a simple case: determine whether three men qualify for over nine million dollars of trust funds. To qualify, none can have been involved in criminal activity for the past twenty years. Ian’s fee for a week’s work: the unbelievable sum of two hundred thousand dollars.

Ian warily accepts the job–but is quickly dragged deep into a mystery linking the trust with a decades-old criminal enterprise and the greatest unsolved art theft in Minnesota history. As stolen money from the art theft surfaces, Ian finds himself the target of a criminal investigation by Brook Daniels, a prosecutor who is also his closest law school friend. He realizes too late that this simple investigation has spun out of control and now threatens his career, his future, and his life.

 

The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright (available December 2017)

Kaine Prescott is no stranger to death. When her husband died two years ago, her pleas for further investigation into his suspicious death fell on deaf ears. In desperate need of a fresh start, Kaine purchases an old house sight unseen in her grandfather’s Wisconsin hometown. But one look at the eerie, abandoned house immediately leaves her questioning her rash decision. And when the house’s dark history comes back with a vengeance, Kaine is forced to face the terrifying realization she has nowhere left to hide.

A century earlier, the house on Foster Hill holds nothing but painful memories for Ivy Thorpe. When an unidentified woman is found dead on the property, Ivy is compelled to discover her identity. Ivy’s search leads her into dangerous waters and, even as she works together with a man from her past, can she unravel the mystery before any other lives–including her own — are lost?

 

Justice Buried by Patricia Bradley (available September 2017)

In an effort to get her security consulting business off the ground, Kelsey Allen has been spending a lot of time up in the air, rappelling down buildings and climbing through windows to show business owners their vulnerabilities to thieves. When she is hired to pose as a conservator at the Pink Palace Museum in order to test their security weaknesses after some artifacts go missing, she’s ecstatic. But when her investigative focus turns from theft to murder, Kelsey knows she’s out of her league–and possibly in the cross hairs. When blast-from-the-past Detective Brad Hollister is called in to investigate, Kelsey may find that he’s the biggest security threat yet . . . to her heart.

 

Portrait of Vengeance by Carrie Stuart Parks (available August 2017)

Gwen Marcey has done a good job keeping the pain of her past boxed up. But as she investigates the case of a missing child in Lapwai, Idaho, details keep surfacing that are eerily similar to her childhood traumas. She doesn’t believe in coincidences. So what’s going on here?

No one knows more about the impact of the past than the Nez Perce people of Lapwai. Gwen finds herself an unwelcome visitor to some, making her investigation even more difficult. The questions keep piling up, but answers are slow in coming—and the clock is ticking for a missing little girl. Meanwhile, Gwen’s ex-husband is threatening to take sole custody of their daughter.

As Gwen’s past and present collide, she’s in a desperate race for the truth. Because only truth will ensure she still has a future.

 

Rule of Law by Randy Singer (available September 2017)

What did the president know? And when did she know it?

For the members of SEAL Team Six, it was a rare mission ordered by the president, monitored in real time from the Situation Room. The Houthi rebels in Yemen had captured an American journalist and a member of the Saudi royal family. Their executions were scheduled for Easter Sunday. The SEAL team would break them out.

But when the mission results in spectacular failure, the finger-pointing goes all the way to the top.

Did the president play political games with the lives of U.S. service members?

Paige Chambers, a determined young lawyer, has a very personal reason for wanting to know the answer. The case she files will polarize the nation and test the resiliency of the Constitution. The stakes are huge, the alliances shaky, and she will be left to wonder if the saying on the Supreme Court building still holds true.

Equal justice under law.

It makes a nice motto. But will it work when one of the most powerful people on the planet is also a defendant?

 

A Time to Stand by Robert Whitlow (available September 2017)

Adisa Johnson, a young African American attorney, is living her dream of practicing law with a prestigious firm in downtown Atlanta. Then a split-second mistake changes the course of her career.

Left with no other options, Adisa returns to her hometown where a few days earlier a white police officer shot an unarmed black teen who is now lying comatose in the hospital.

Adisa is itching to jump into the fight as a special prosecutor, but feels pulled to do what she considers unthinkable — defend the officer.

As the court case unfolds, everyone in the small community must confront their own prejudices. Caught in the middle, Adisa also tries to chart her way along a path complicated by her budding relationship with a charismatic young preacher who leads the local movement demanding the police officer answer for his crime.

This highly relevant and gripping novel challenges us to ask what it means to forgive while seeking justice, to pursue reconciliation while loving others as ourselves.

 

Vanishing Point by Lisa Harris (available November 2017)

During Garrett Addison’s first week on the job as a criminal investigator for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, his team is called out to a murder scene of a young girl. She’s the third victim in a string of disappearances with one thing in common–a Polaroid photo of each victim left behind at the crime scene.

The FBI is pulled into the case to help, and Garrett finds himself working with Special Agent Jordan Lambert, the woman he once loved. When yet another girl dies–number six–Garrett blames himself and believes he doesn’t have what it takes to be an agent. What he’ll discover is that, while he may be done with the killer, the killer is not done with him — or Jordan.

 

What books are you waiting on?

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Book Review: Fatal Accusation

3 Feb

51ys3rhhiplAttorney Olivia Murray hopes her life will get back to normal after a hard fought trial. But she soon finds out that the forces of evil have not given up their pursuit to win the hearts and minds of those in Windy Ridge.

An embezzling scandal breaks that rocks the community church to its core. The New Age groups are ready to declare victory when a high profile prosecutor files criminal charges against the local pastor. However, Olivia is not willing to give up on the community she’s come to love. She takes on the defense pro bono knowing it could destroy her career, but it’s a case that she is called to defend.

The battle will be fierce, but she’s not fighting it alone. Her friend and fellow attorney Grant Baxter is by her side. Olivia must use all the tools in her arsenal to combat those who seek to destroy the believers in the community. If Olivia can’t prove the pastor’s innocence, more than her career is on the line. The entire community of Windy Ridge could fall to the forces of darkness.

71l2nnpxbsl-_ux250_-pngRachel Dylan writes Christian fiction including inspirational romantic suspense for Love Inspired Suspense. She also writes the Danger in the Deep South series and the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. Trial & Tribulations is a 2016 Selah Awards Finalist. Rachel has practiced law for a decade and enjoys weaving together legal and suspenseful stories. 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 http://www.racheldylan.com.

 

My Impressions:

The faith community of Windy Ridge is rocked by a seeming betrayal by Pastor Dan Light in Rachel Dylan’s latest legal thriller, Fatal Accusation. In this supernaturally-charged suspense novel, the reader is treated to twists and turns galore and fast-paced action. If you haven’t read book 1 in this series, Trial & Tribulation, make sure to do so first. The plot lines are continuous, so you’ll miss some really good stuff!

While the action in Fatal Accusation is front and center, characterization does not take a back seat. Olivia Murray is a great lead character — complex, with a strong faith foundation. Dylan uses her to show the power that God can exhibit through His people. Spiritual warfare is chillingly illustrated in this novel, but in a very realistic way. Perhaps that is why it makes such an impact on the reader. The battles between good and evil make this a thought-provoking page turner. I liked that Dylan resolved the legal fight Pastor Dan is involved in, but she leaves some plot lines dangling. There’s more than enough for another much anticipated book.

One theme I especially liked was the idea of God using our circumstances, both good and bad, to shape our lives and purpose. Pastor Dan finds himself in a difficult place, but realizes he is just where God wants him. That was a good reminder to me.

A quick read, Fatal Accusation is a good choice for fans of legal thrillers, and gets a recommended rating from me.

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase this book, click HERE. The Kindle version is just $3.99!

(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

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Book Review: Devoted Defender

9 Sep

51yj9oaovflPersonal Chef Annie Thomas thought she’d finally found a safe haven from her past. But when her boss is shot in cold blood leaving her as the only witness, she’s forced to go on the run—again. And this time there is an even bigger target on her back.

Navy SEAL turned small town police chief Caleb Winters doesn’t like that danger has come to Maxwell, Georgia. But he vows to protect the innocent woman seeking refuge from an organized crime network that he knows will stop at nothing to tie up loose ends.

When hiding is no longer an option and threats surround them, will Caleb be the devoted defender Annie needs with her life on the line?

 

71l2nnpxbsl-_ux250_-pngRachel Dylan writes Christian fiction including inspirational romantic suspense for Love Inspired Suspense. She also writes the Danger in the Deep South series and the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. Trial & Tribulations is a 2016 Selah Awards Finalist. Rachel has practiced law for a decade and enjoys weaving together legal and suspenseful stories. She lives in Michigan with her husband and five firkins — two dogs and three cats. Rachel loves to connect with readers. You can find Rachel at http://www.racheldylan.com.

 

My Impressions:

I have read a number of novels by Rachel Dylan, and I must say that she just keeps getting better and better! Devoted Defender, the second installment in her Danger in The Deep South series, is now my favorite book by her. The romantic suspense will keep you guessing with its twists and turns and will make you sigh when the sparks fly between main characters Annie and Caleb. Being a Georgia girl, I also loved the small town Georgia setting as well. Great job, Rachel!

Annie Thomas flees to the small town of Maxwell after witnessing the murder of her boss. Annie’s past experiences with the police leave her unable to trust them. But Caleb Winters is different. From their first meeting, Annie finds that Caleb is truly caring and determined to see justice done. But can she really overcome the betrayals of her past?

In addition to the non-stop action with near fatal attacks by the bad guys and the romantic tension between the main characters, Devoted Defender has a strong faith thread. Characters are working through their faith, learning to trust God even when everything seems out of control. Annie had a difficult childhood and Caleb experienced trauma during his time of service. But both characters are Christians and learn that faith grows during hard times. A quick read, Devoted Defender is perfect to take along on a late summer getaway.

Devoted Defender is part of a series with recurring characters, but it can be read as a standalone. Hints of more to come have me anxiously awaiting more from Rachel. Can’t wait!

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

(Thanks to the author for providing a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Book Review: Incriminating Evidence

2 Jul

51Z8SXCQJeL._SX315_BO1,204,203,200_When rookie prosecutor Jessica Hughes crosses the son of a major crime boss, she’s determined to bring him to justice—if his family doesn’t kill her first. And with newly minted FBI special agent Zach Taylor protecting her, she believes she can succeed. Zach will do anything to stay ahead of the crime syndicate and guard Jessica while she builds her case. The more time he spends with her, the more personal the assignment becomes. It’s bad timing for falling in love, but as the threats against her life escalate, Zach realizes Jessica is everything to him—and he will do everything he can to make sure she has a future.

 

 

 

rachel-dylan-200x300Rachel Dylan writes Christian fiction including inspirational romantic suspense for Love Inspired Suspense. She also writes the Danger in the Deep South series and the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. Rachel has practiced law for a decade and enjoys weaving together legal and suspenseful stories. 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 http://www.racheldylan.com.

 

My Impressions:

Incriminating Evidence is Rachel Dylan’s latest novel for Love Inspired Suspense. This novel has everything I have come to expect from Rachel — heart-pounding suspense with non-stop action, two characters with chemistry to spare and a faith thread that is naturally woven throughout the story. This one is a perfect choice to include in your pool bag this summer.

Prosecutor Jessica Hughes and FBI agent Zach Taylor are relatively new on the job. But what they lack in experience they make up for with determination, zeal and a strong sense of justice. They are thrown together when Jessica’s high profile case becomes a little too personal and she needs protection. With bad guys on both sides of the justice system, they have a hard time deciding just whom to trust.

Rachel packs a lot into her Love Inspired Suspense novels, despite their short length. Incriminating Evidence is first and foremost romantic suspense and there is plenty to please fans. But Rachel is also good at character development. Her main characters, Jessica and Zach, are real and relatable (despite their dangerous close calls!) and struggle with faith issues common to all. Both must overcome their inexperience on the job and learn to give God control over their lives. Rachel’s themes are always true to life — jessica and Zach’s childhoods have influenced their ability to trust men and God — something that many struggle with. So if you are looking for a quick, yet extremely satisfying read for a weekend getaway or staycation, Incriminating Evidence is a recommended read from me!

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to Rachel Dylan for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

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Book Review: Picture Perfect Murder

15 Apr

Unknown-1When photographer Lily Parker escapes an attack, she doesn’t want any help from the FBI agent who is convinced she’s a serial killer’s latest obsession. But after one of her photographs is found at a murder scene, it’s clear that Special Agent Rex Sullivan was right. Lily, a former CIA agent, isn’t used to relying on others, but she won’t survive without Rex at her side. And Rex quickly sees that Lily isn’t a typical victim in need of his protection, but a valuable partner who can help him bring down a madman. With the murderer growing bolder, Rex has to convince Lily to trust him with her safety—or she could become the killer’s next victim.

 

 

71L2nNpxBSL._UX250_.pngRachel Dylan writes Christian fiction including inspirational romantic suspense for Love Inspired Suspense. She also writes the Danger in the Deep South series and the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. Rachel has practiced law for a decade and enjoys weaving together legal and suspenseful stories. 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 http://www.racheldylan.com.

 

My Impressions:

Picture Perfect Murder is another winner from author and lawyer Rachel Dylan. This book is part of the Love Inspired Suspense series and offers fast-paced action right from the start. Suspects abound and I found myself scrutinizing everyone’s actions, but the ending came as a big surprise — a plus in my opinion. If you need a book to tuck into your beach or weekend bag, consider Picture Perfect Murder.

A serial killer is on the loose in Atlanta, but has he met his match in former CIA agent Lily Parker? This character can take care of herself! But she is not alone; she has help from hunky FBI agent Rex Sullivan and her dog Grace. There is definite chemistry between the two main characters that fans of romance will approve. For the dog lover, Grace plays a big role.  There is also non-stop suspense and mystery that begins from page one — the action never lets up. The faith message is strong in Picture Perfect Murder. Lily is a believer whose past has negatively influenced her trust in God. She has come to believe God just doesn’t listen or care. Rex is a strong Christian and a positive witness for Lily. Slowly she comes to trust Rex and God. I liked Dylan’s emphasis on fellowship and accountability in maintaining our relationship with God.

A quick-read, Picture Perfect Murder will keep you engaged until the adrenaline-laced ending!

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to the author for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Top 10 Tuesday — Spring TBR List

15 Mar

I can hardly believe it is Spring already! But the time jumped ahead and the azaleas and pear trees are blooming outside my window, so it must be true. Today’s theme for Top 10 Tuesday hosted by The Broke and The Bookish is Spring TBR List. I have lots of fabulous books on my list — including biblical fiction, mysteries, romantic suspense and historical romance. What are you reading in the days ahead?

toptentuesday

 

Spring 2016 TBR List

Annabel Lee by Mike Nappa

Bathsheba by Angela Hunt

Dressed for Death by Julianna Deering

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A Fool And His Monet by Sandra Orchard

The Hearts We Mend by Kathryn Springer

Lydia’s Song — Katherine Blessan

The Painter’s Daughter by Julie Klassen

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Picture Perfect Murder by Rachel Dylan

Twist of Faith by Pepper Basham

You’re The One That I Want by Susan May Warren

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That’s what I’m reading.

How about you?

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Author, Author! — Rachel Dylan

12 Feb

Rachel-Dylan-200x300I am so excited to welcome romantic suspense author, Rachel Dylan to By The Book today. Take a few moments to find out what makes this talented author tick as well as exciting new releases coming up. (You can click on the pictures of Rachel’s books for my reviews and to find information on how to purchase them.)

By The Book — Many authors say that they have always been a writer — making up stories as a child. When did you first become a writer?

Rachel Dylan — I think I have always been a writer. As a child, I was a voracious reader. I gobbled up books left and right. I started writing stories and poems in elementary school. Everyone in high school assumed I was going to become an English professor. It didn’t turn out quite like that, but writing has always been a part of who I am.

BTB — Was there a special someone, such as a teacher, parent, or other relative, who encouraged you to pursue writing?

Rachel — I had many teachers along the way starting in elementary school that encouraged my love of reading and writing. My parents were also both very supportive of my writing. Currently, my family and friends are all a great source of support and motivation for me.

unknown11BTB — Your books always contain a strong Christian message. Do you have a particular motivation to write books that contain faith threads?

Rachel — Actually, I do. The first couple of novels I ever wrote were secular novels. But I felt convicted to change my path and write books that had a strong faith message. God was tugging at my heart to take a different direction. I went through some struggles in my personal life that led me to really reevaluate things. And I wanted to use the talents God had given me to write Christian fiction. I made that commitment and have been thoroughly blessed by doing so. Looking back over my writing career, I can now see God working in ways that at the time I had no idea about.

BTB — What does a typical writing day look like? Are you structured or informal in your writing schedule?

Rachel — Because I still work full time as a lawyer, most of my actual writing is done on the weekends. I usually get up very early on Saturday morning and work all day. It is a tough schedule given my lawyer hours, but I love writing and I feel like it’s a form of ministry for me. I get that fiction is entertainment, but I really want my books to have a purpose beyond entertainment.

BTB — Your most recent books, Lethal Action and Trial and Tribulations, involve legal drama, romance and suspense. What is your motivation for writing in this genre? How does your experience as an attorney impact or influence your writing? 


514miqr2z6l-_sx311_bo1204203200_Rachel — Writing books with legal themes is a natural fit for me. I keep getting drawn back to telling legal stories because I’ve been a lawyer now for about 10 years, and I have so many ideas. Also, I love reading romantic suspense novels, so it made sense to me to write what I love to read. With legal stories, there’s also a fine line I try to walk on being realistic and also entertaining.

BTB — Trial And Tribulations adds an extra dimension with its focus on spiritual warfare. Did you encounter any obstacles or problems in writing this novel? 


Rachel — I never set out to write a book about spiritual warfare. In fact, I was writing a completely different book. I remember sitting there on vacation and then an idea hit me. The main character Olivia came to my mind along with the story line about two battling New Age companies and spiritual warfare. Writing the book itself flowed so easily. It’s all a blur now when I look back on the writing process—and I wrote the book very quickly. But then after I finished it and my agent submitted to publishers, that’s when the challenges and obstacles really started to pop up. Traditional publishers said that spiritual warfare wasn’t something that would sell right now. I made the decision to independently publish the book because I felt so strongly about it. It has been a challenge to reach readers searching for spiritual warfare stories, but I am not giving up because I really believe in the message of the story.

BTB — What kind of research did you do in writing both books?

Rachel — For Lethal Action, I didn’t have to do a lot of research because the legal elements of the story were so familiar to me. I also set the story in Georgia which is where I am from. For Trial & Tribulations, I did a lot of reading. I probably read at least ten books on spiritual warfare.

BTB — What do you want your readers to take away with them after finishing one of your novels?

Rachel — I want them to enjoy the books, but I also would love it if they take away a positive message of faith, hope, and redemption.

BTB — Both Lethal Action and Trial And Tribulations are first books in a series. When can readers expect book 2 in the series? What are some other projects you are working on?

51becfzyvzl-_sx311_bo1204203200_Rachel — I’m working on the sequel to Trial & Tribulations now and will soon start the Lethal Action sequel. I have two books from Love Inspired Suspense coming out in April and July, so I’m targeting the sequels for later this year. I’m also working on a totally separate legal suspense, but that project hasn’t been finalized yet.

BTB — What would you like to share about your personal life?

Rachel — I absolutely love animals. I have five special furkids in my life–2 dogs and 3 cats. One of the cats is a tripod. And I love putting animals in my stories. Four of my pets are rescue, and I’m a big advocate of animal rescue. I also am very active on social media and would love to connect to readers on Facebook and Twitter or by email.

Thanks so much, Rachel, for sharing with my readers today. Make sure you check out Rachel and her books HERE. 

Rachel Dylan writes Christian fiction including inspirational romantic suspense for Love Inspired Suspense and the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. Rachel has practiced law for almost a decade and enjoys weaving together legal and suspenseful stories. She is a member of ACFW and RWA. She lives in Michigan with her husband and five furkids–two dogs and three cats. Rachel loves to connect with readers. She is represented by Sarah Younger at Nancy Yost Literary Agency.

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Book Review: Lethal Action

15 Jan

514mIqr2z6L._SX311_BO1,204,203,200_Attorney Hope Finch is a rising star at the prestigious New York law firm of Rice & Taylor and is used to high-stakes litigation. But when she’s sent to what she thought was a small, sleepy town in Georgia, she is unprepared for the dangerous turn of events that threatens her life and career.

FBI Special Agent Gabe Marino knows that something sinister is happening in his hometown of Maxwell, Georgia. But even he doesn’t know how big the threat is until he’s assigned to protect a visiting big city lawyer. As Gabe investigates the illegal activity linked to Hope’s client, he tries to caution her, but she ignores his warnings—until it’s her life that’s in jeopardy.

When Hope becomes the target in a deadly corporate cover-up that is directly tied to the biggest trial the town of Maxwell has ever seen, she and Gabe have to find a way to work together. Hope and Gabe race against the clock to uncover the true threat, but can Gabe keep Hope safe in the face of danger or will time run out on them both?

71L2nNpxBSL._UX250_.pngRachel Dylan writes Christian fiction including inspirational romantic suspense for Love Inspired Suspense and the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. Rachel has practiced law for almost a decade and enjoys weaving together legal and suspenseful stories. 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 http://www.racheldylan.com.

 

My Impressions:

Real life attorney Rachel Dylan is known for her fast-paced romantic suspense novels. Lethal Action, the first book in her new Danger in The Deep South series, is an independently published novel that features suspense, legal drama and romance. For established Dylan fans or for readers who want a danger-laced romance, this book is a recommended read.

Hope Finch is a big city lawyer determined to leave her childhood deprivations behind as she focuses all her attention on her legal career. Burned in love, she is content to make the courtroom her home. But all bets are off when she meets small town born and bred FBI agent Gabe Marino. Their unlikely partnership makes sparks fly as they dodge assassins bullets, speeding cars and corporate espionage in the unlikely locale of Maxwell, Georgia.

Prior to picking up Lethal Action, I had read two of Rachel Dylan’s works. Both involved high stakes legal cases and spark-flying romances. This book is no exception. The two main characters have instant chemistry, though both work hard to deny it. The novel is plot-driven and there is no shortage of deadly encounters with bad guys. Danger lurks behind every corner. Dylan also adds a touch of faith, as Hope has a reawakening of sorts. Exposed to God in college, she left Him behind in law school and in practice. But uncertainty has a way of leading one back. Lethal Action is just book 1 in a planned series, and while the story for this book is concluded, there’s definitely more to come for Hope and Gabe. I am looking forward to more from Dylan and her formidable team.

Recommended.

Audience: adults

To purchase this book, click HERE. It is currently 99 cents on Kindle!

(Thanks to the author for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

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Book Review: Expert Witness

8 Sep

UnknownMinutes after testifying in a murder trial, sketch artist Sydney Berry is almost killed in a drive-by shooting. United States Marshal Max Preston saves her life then whisks her away to safety. She’s his first protected witness, and he’ll do everything in his power to keep her safe. But Sydney doesn’t want to hide from danger. She is determined to finish her testimony and put a killer away. With potential suspects coming from all corners, Sydney will have to trust Max with her deepest secrets—and her life.

 

 

 

71L2nNpxBSL._UX250_.pngRachel Dylan writes Christian fiction including inspirational romantic suspense for Love Inspired Suspense and the Windy Ridge Legal Thriller series. Rachel has practiced law for almost a decade and enjoys weaving together legal and suspenseful stories. 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 http://www.racheldylan.com.

 

My Impressions:

Expert Witness by Rachel Dylan is a fast-paced, adrenaline-laced read right from the start. Part of the Love Inspired Suspense series, it is a quick read perfect for busy fans of that genre. It’s perfect to tuck into your carry-on bag for that late summer getaway.

Sidney Berry is a forensic artist and is often called upon to give expert testimony in criminal cases. But the case she is currently on gets a bit personal when multiple attempts are made on her life. US Marshall Max Preston is determined to keep her safe, even when it is hard to tell the good guys from the bad guys.

Both romance and suspense are front and center in Expert Witness. But I never thought that Dylan stinted on details as she fleshed out her characters. The novel is short, but the timeline spans a few weeks so the romance doesn’t really feel too rushed amid all the action. I particularly liked Sidney’s character. A victim of abuse in the past, Sidney takes charge of her own welfare so that she won’t be a victim in the future. Her self-defense skills make her a strong and determined character, not a woman solely depending on others. Her faith is even stronger, and her interactions with the skeptical Max are a big part of the story. Max, for all his strength and courage, has a vulnerable and tender side which makes him a swoon-worthy hero. The only thing I didn’t like was all the bad cops that kept popping up. While I get the trust no one story line, it became a bit too unbelievable.

All in all, though, I liked Expert Witness and look forward to reading more by Rachel Dylan.

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to author for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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