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Private Justice #2
Trapped
When librarian Laura Griffin's sixteen-year-old sister disappears on a frigid February day, leaving only a brief note behind, Laura resolves to do whatever it takes to track down the runaway teen. That includes recruiting ATF agent turned PI James "Dev" Devlin to help. But the deeper he digs, the more he begins to suspect that something sinister is at work in the girl's disappearance. And the closer he gets to uncovering the truth, the clearer it becomes that the situation isn't just dangerous--it's deadly.
Chilling and at times terrifying, "Trapped" is the latest thrilling read from Irene Hannon, the queen of romantic suspense. Hannon outdoes herself with this fast-paced tale of fear, deception, and just the right dose of romance.
Chilling and at times terrifying, "Trapped" is the latest thrilling read from Irene Hannon, the queen of romantic suspense. Hannon outdoes herself with this fast-paced tale of fear, deception, and just the right dose of romance.
394 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2013
About the author
Irene Hannon
108 books2,735 followersIrene Hannon, who writes both contemporary romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 65 novels. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romance fiction) and she is a member of that organization's elite Hall of Fame. She has also received a Career Achievement award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Other awards for individual books include National Readers' Choice, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers' Best, and Reviewers' Choice from RT Book Reviews. She is also a two-time Christy award finalist.
Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.
A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.
Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.
A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 392 reviews
December 16, 2023
This is a Mystery/Romantic Suspense, and this is the second book in the Private Justice series. I have not read the first book in this series. This book pulled me into the book really quickly, and it made me want to keep reading to find out how it will end. I love the characters. The mystery in this book was so well done, and the suspense was really good. This was a fast pace book that had great characters.
December 26, 2015
This one's a solid four stars for me. It's suspenseful for sure, with such a creepy perp that I had to keep laying the book aside just to be able to digest his villainy. And at the end I was so engaged in the story that I couldn't lay it aside, so I'll be going for some light reading next! I still like the third book best, but every book in this series has been great.
October 28, 2013
Every time a new book by Irene Hannon hits the shelves, I wait with great anticipation to get my hands on a copy. "Trapped" was no exception, and it proves that Hannon's writing gets better with each new release! The suspense scenes are absolutely riveting, as the reader is drawn deeper and deeper into the plight of Laura's 16-yr-old sister, Darcy. As you delve into the story, the sense of foreboding about Darcy's choices grows stronger until you find yourself gripping the book watching as she makes a mistake that could cost her very life. I enjoyed the characters of Laura and Dev, and though I am not a huge fan of romance, I found that their relationship developed in a believable manner. The bantering between Dev and the other employees of the private investigation firm Phoenix, Inc., made for some light-hearted moments that added a humorous flavour to the story; their strong commitment to each other that emerges at the end of the book is also inspiring.. And the antagonist? Simply chilling, and all-too-believable with his tragic past and evil intentions. I can honestly say that this is one of my top suspense choices of the year, and I am greatly anticipating the third book in the "Private Justice" series. If it's anything like Trapped, it will be quite a ride indeed!
I dare you to pick up a copy of this book and be able to put it down any time soon. If you are anything like me, you will find yourself held captive from the beginning to the satisfying conclusion! 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
I dare you to pick up a copy of this book and be able to put it down any time soon. If you are anything like me, you will find yourself held captive from the beginning to the satisfying conclusion! 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
October 12, 2019
This was a creepy but good suspense book that reminded me of the show Criminal Minds. It was an intriguing plot that featured a missing person, a psychopath, private investigators, and a sister’s love. Overall, it was a fascinating book that I mostly enjoyed.
The things that bugged me were three profane words and two expletives. These had not been used in the previous book in the series, which was a four-star read for me. They were not needed in this story to make it shine. Rather, they detracted from the story for me.
Content: profanity, expletives, alcohol, teen drinking, drugs
The things that bugged me were three profane words and two expletives. These had not been used in the previous book in the series, which was a four-star read for me. They were not needed in this story to make it shine. Rather, they detracted from the story for me.
Content: profanity, expletives, alcohol, teen drinking, drugs
October 2, 2019
I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first. The suspense/action build up kept me flipping pages. I even read between 4 and 6 one morning since it was too interesting and I struggled to sleep.
On top of what I loved in book 1 (the PI aspect, the love relationship being a side-plot), I enjoyed the relationship and banter between the 3 guys in this book. I felt like I could see more of their relationship dynamic and friendship.
But the cherry on top was the villain. What a twisted man. After meeting him, you are left with questions if this was really the baddie and as certain things are being dropped, you definitely get a freak radar from him. I flipped through the pages to see what he will do and how things will end and definitely did not see a few things coming. I love a twisted villain and Irene definitely delivered with this one.
A great suspense series from a great suspense author. Looking forward to Connor's story. I have a feeling I will love him the most from the three guys...
On top of what I loved in book 1 (the PI aspect, the love relationship being a side-plot), I enjoyed the relationship and banter between the 3 guys in this book. I felt like I could see more of their relationship dynamic and friendship.
But the cherry on top was the villain. What a twisted man. After meeting him, you are left with questions if this was really the baddie and as certain things are being dropped, you definitely get a freak radar from him. I flipped through the pages to see what he will do and how things will end and definitely did not see a few things coming. I love a twisted villain and Irene definitely delivered with this one.
A great suspense series from a great suspense author. Looking forward to Connor's story. I have a feeling I will love him the most from the three guys...
June 9, 2017
The author did not disappoint in this second of the Private Justice series. Living on the edge of society resides a small segment of scoundrels and villains - broken people. We know they're there. This dreadful tale gave us a bird's-eye view of one such person. I found myself cringing with anxiety as the storyline began to unfold. All scenes were cleverly laid out leaving the reader at all times begging for more, yet, at the same time wanting to look away. The only time the pages stopped turning was when it was necessary to come up for a breath of fresh air. Reading this book was like going for a drive strapped down to an ejection seat fitted with a hairpin trigger. it was all too real.
In search of Mrs. Right, a psychopathic killer lures unsuspecting young women (girls) to his home. His favored victims are runaways and there are always plenty to choose from. He preys on the needy and is able to easily gain their confidence. It is hoped he's stopped and stopped soon before he murders again.
In search of Mrs. Right, a psychopathic killer lures unsuspecting young women (girls) to his home. His favored victims are runaways and there are always plenty to choose from. He preys on the needy and is able to easily gain their confidence. It is hoped he's stopped and stopped soon before he murders again.
June 8, 2020
I enjoyed this book. The characters were easy to like, well, except for the baddie. I liked that we were able to see points of view from not only the main characters and the culprit, but other characters in a way that helped move the action in the story forward.
I used to think that the most interesting part of reading a suspense novel was figuring out 'whodunnit', but after reading a few (including this one!) where you are told exactly who the 'perp' is from almost the beginning, I realise that you don't have to have that particular mystery to figure out. It's enough to try and figure out *why* things are happening the way they are . . . the motivation behind the crime, and how in the world the heroes are going to solve the case in enough time to 'save the day'.
(If I could have one wish for this novel, it would be that the faith element was a wee bit stronger, but it wasn't enough to detract from the solid 4-star rating.)
I used to think that the most interesting part of reading a suspense novel was figuring out 'whodunnit', but after reading a few (including this one!) where you are told exactly who the 'perp' is from almost the beginning, I realise that you don't have to have that particular mystery to figure out. It's enough to try and figure out *why* things are happening the way they are . . . the motivation behind the crime, and how in the world the heroes are going to solve the case in enough time to 'save the day'.
(If I could have one wish for this novel, it would be that the faith element was a wee bit stronger, but it wasn't enough to detract from the solid 4-star rating.)
December 22, 2013
Wow! I am so impressed with this book. And let me start off by saying that I have not read the first book in this series, Vanished, and had absolutely no problem at all following this story.
The author did a great job of writing an extremely suspenseful story, full of interesting characters. I loved the dynamic between Dev and Laura, as they fought the attraction they were feeling toward each other. Dev is the Private Investigator that Laura has hired to find her runaway half-sister, Darcy. I appreciated the author’s ability to make me understand, through hearing Darcy’s thoughts throughout her portions of the story, what her motivation had been to run away from home. I was able to feel empathy toward Dev, Laura and Darcy in the various situations they faced.
And might I add that the author did a great job of creating a well-developed villain. At one point I turned to my husband and said, “Uh oh…this guy’s about to show us his ‘crazy’.” She crafted a truly messed up human being with all kinds of issues.
This story kept me turning the page, wanting more till the very end. I now look forward to going back and reading the first book in the series, as well as this author’s other books. Trapped was the first book that I have read by Irene Hannon and it will not be the last!
I received a complimentary copy of Trapped from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
You can read this and other reviews on my blog at http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
The author did a great job of writing an extremely suspenseful story, full of interesting characters. I loved the dynamic between Dev and Laura, as they fought the attraction they were feeling toward each other. Dev is the Private Investigator that Laura has hired to find her runaway half-sister, Darcy. I appreciated the author’s ability to make me understand, through hearing Darcy’s thoughts throughout her portions of the story, what her motivation had been to run away from home. I was able to feel empathy toward Dev, Laura and Darcy in the various situations they faced.
And might I add that the author did a great job of creating a well-developed villain. At one point I turned to my husband and said, “Uh oh…this guy’s about to show us his ‘crazy’.” She crafted a truly messed up human being with all kinds of issues.
This story kept me turning the page, wanting more till the very end. I now look forward to going back and reading the first book in the series, as well as this author’s other books. Trapped was the first book that I have read by Irene Hannon and it will not be the last!
I received a complimentary copy of Trapped from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
You can read this and other reviews on my blog at http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
June 26, 2015
When librarian Laura Griffith's sixteen-year-old sister disappears on a frigid February day, leaving only a brief note behind, Laura resolves to do whatever it takes to track down the runaway teen. That includes recruiting ATF agent turned PI James "Dev" Devlin to help. But the deeper he digs, the more he begins to suspect that something sinister is at work in the girl's disappearance. And the closer he gets to uncovering the truth, the clearer it becomes that the situation isn't just dangerous--it's deadly.
Chilling and at times terrifying, Trapped is the latest thrilling read from Irene Hannon, the queen of romantic suspense. Hannon outdoes herself with this fast-paced tale of fear, deception, and just the right dose of romance.
Talk about nail biting! I was on the edge of my seat and engaged in the story every chance I got. I was like, no! no! don't do that, don't go there, don't tell him that! I was listening to the audio version and several times I had to explain to my husband why I was groaning...LOL. I agree with other reviews that this was the best book of the three in this series. I felt like I was listening to an episode of Criminal Minds!
The author does a really good job in fleshing out the characters in this book. Laura and Darcy are half sisters who have grown up in different environments and are separated by an age gap. Laura stays strong throughout the book and Darcy does some growing up and changing, some of it forced upon her by her extreme circumstances. The bad guy is a complex mix of good and bad and psychotic and his story is sad. Dev and his team are willing to put their lives on the line for their client and go above and beyond to try to find and save Darcy.
All in all, this is a great book full of nail biting, edge of your seat suspense, a hero who saves the day and a behind the scenes slow romance that you'll be cheering for! :)
Chilling and at times terrifying, Trapped is the latest thrilling read from Irene Hannon, the queen of romantic suspense. Hannon outdoes herself with this fast-paced tale of fear, deception, and just the right dose of romance.
Talk about nail biting! I was on the edge of my seat and engaged in the story every chance I got. I was like, no! no! don't do that, don't go there, don't tell him that! I was listening to the audio version and several times I had to explain to my husband why I was groaning...LOL. I agree with other reviews that this was the best book of the three in this series. I felt like I was listening to an episode of Criminal Minds!
The author does a really good job in fleshing out the characters in this book. Laura and Darcy are half sisters who have grown up in different environments and are separated by an age gap. Laura stays strong throughout the book and Darcy does some growing up and changing, some of it forced upon her by her extreme circumstances. The bad guy is a complex mix of good and bad and psychotic and his story is sad. Dev and his team are willing to put their lives on the line for their client and go above and beyond to try to find and save Darcy.
All in all, this is a great book full of nail biting, edge of your seat suspense, a hero who saves the day and a behind the scenes slow romance that you'll be cheering for! :)
December 20, 2013
Librarian Laura (it's so weird to write that since that used to be the name of my blog) will admit adjusting to living with her half sister is harder than expected, but when Darcy runs away, Laura will stop at nothing to get her back.
Irene Hannon is one of my favorite romantic suspense authors, and this one doesn't disappoint. I loved Laura and Dev, and my heart hurt for Darcy, who had lost everyone she loved. But, it was the action and the insight into the villain's mind that intrigued me the most.
There were times I raced through the pages to see what happened next, not realizing I was holding my breath.
There were twists and turns, and the ride is fantastic. Fans of romantic suspense will enjoy this book. I'm looking forward to book three.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
Irene Hannon is one of my favorite romantic suspense authors, and this one doesn't disappoint. I loved Laura and Dev, and my heart hurt for Darcy, who had lost everyone she loved. But, it was the action and the insight into the villain's mind that intrigued me the most.
There were times I raced through the pages to see what happened next, not realizing I was holding my breath.
There were twists and turns, and the ride is fantastic. Fans of romantic suspense will enjoy this book. I'm looking forward to book three.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
September 3, 2013
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/RFNBCTD9...
Review on my blog (to be posted 9/4): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
I've read all of Irene Hannon's suspense novels to date and, while I loved most of them, I have to say Trapped is my favorite so far! The book was just so intense and chilling!!
The suspense started early on in Trapped and, because of certain circumstances, I didn't know if the author would be able to keep the intensity throughout the entire story, but she did and the last few chapters were oh, so intense!
The characters in Trapped were fabulous! I loved all of the people from Phoenix Inc. Dev was a great hero and I loved the close friendship of Dev, Cal, and Connor - that was a moving element to the story (especially towards the end). Also, all the bantering/ribbing between Cal, Connor, Nikki, and Dev was just so funny and made for some entertaining scenes. :)
Overall, I loved Trapped! It made my "favorites'" shelf and I can hardly wait to read Deceived (book three) when it releases. I recommend Trapped if you enjoy suspense novels with some romance and creepiness.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Available September 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
Review on my blog (to be posted 9/4): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
I've read all of Irene Hannon's suspense novels to date and, while I loved most of them, I have to say Trapped is my favorite so far! The book was just so intense and chilling!!
The suspense started early on in Trapped and, because of certain circumstances, I didn't know if the author would be able to keep the intensity throughout the entire story, but she did and the last few chapters were oh, so intense!
The characters in Trapped were fabulous! I loved all of the people from Phoenix Inc. Dev was a great hero and I loved the close friendship of Dev, Cal, and Connor - that was a moving element to the story (especially towards the end). Also, all the bantering/ribbing between Cal, Connor, Nikki, and Dev was just so funny and made for some entertaining scenes. :)
Overall, I loved Trapped! It made my "favorites'" shelf and I can hardly wait to read Deceived (book three) when it releases. I recommend Trapped if you enjoy suspense novels with some romance and creepiness.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Available September 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
August 31, 2013
It’s a cold night in January when the reader picks up this novel and immediately feels that creepy, here-comes-the-mystery beginning. There is an eerie feeling to every good suspense novel where the story just gets started and you know the villain is right around the corner – you’re sure of it. And it’s all downhill from there…
I wasn’t too sure about the suspense level in this one, to be completely honest – could the premise be sustained through almost 400 pages? It didn’t really kick into high gear until about 2/3 of the way through the book, but boy, when it did, I couldn’t put it down. I finished the last 150 pages within one evening; it just kept getting better.
Our villain had to be one of the more deceitful villains I’ve read in a novel for some time. There were times as a reader, I knew this guy had to be the one, but on the flip side, I couldn’t marry the two in my mind. Great story crafting for sure!
Dev and Laura are a truly interesting couple, forced into a situation that no one wants to be in the middle of: kidnappings. Romance. Murder. Chilling cold. I felt it all. The second book with the second detective in the Phoenix agency is a worthwhile read…but be prepared to burn the midnight oil to keep reading until the very end…
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
**Available September 2013 from Revell, a division of Baker Publishers**
I wasn’t too sure about the suspense level in this one, to be completely honest – could the premise be sustained through almost 400 pages? It didn’t really kick into high gear until about 2/3 of the way through the book, but boy, when it did, I couldn’t put it down. I finished the last 150 pages within one evening; it just kept getting better.
Our villain had to be one of the more deceitful villains I’ve read in a novel for some time. There were times as a reader, I knew this guy had to be the one, but on the flip side, I couldn’t marry the two in my mind. Great story crafting for sure!
Dev and Laura are a truly interesting couple, forced into a situation that no one wants to be in the middle of: kidnappings. Romance. Murder. Chilling cold. I felt it all. The second book with the second detective in the Phoenix agency is a worthwhile read…but be prepared to burn the midnight oil to keep reading until the very end…
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
**Available September 2013 from Revell, a division of Baker Publishers**
September 7, 2013
When Laura Griffith's sixteen year old sister disappears one cold, snowy Friday afternoon, leaving only a note behind, Laura is determined to do everything in her power to find Darcy. She turns to Private Investigator James Devlin for help. Yet time is critical, and with it growing colder by the hour, foul play may be at work. Every lead appears to be a dead end. Dev and his co-workers are soon working against a clock to locate Darcy before something even worse happens. Will they be successful?
I think that this is my favorite book of Irene Hannon's to date. Though the villain is known early in the story, the quest to put together all of the clues takes the reader on a fun, thrilling ride. I seriously could not read this book at night because I know myself well enough to know I'd dwell on it. Laura's determination to locate her sister shows in every aspect of her character.
I received this book for free from Revell Books for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Dee Henderson, Irene Hannon, Dani Pettrey, romantic suspense
Rating - 5 stars - I seriously loved this book!
Available in September 2013 at your favorite bookstore from Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing House.
I think that this is my favorite book of Irene Hannon's to date. Though the villain is known early in the story, the quest to put together all of the clues takes the reader on a fun, thrilling ride. I seriously could not read this book at night because I know myself well enough to know I'd dwell on it. Laura's determination to locate her sister shows in every aspect of her character.
I received this book for free from Revell Books for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Dee Henderson, Irene Hannon, Dani Pettrey, romantic suspense
Rating - 5 stars - I seriously loved this book!
Available in September 2013 at your favorite bookstore from Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing House.
February 15, 2024
Definitely a little creepy, but undeniably good. I'll admit; in the beginning I had to put the book down in regular intervals, in order to absorb the cruelty of what was about to happen, but once I accepted where the story was headed; I could not put it down. If you are an Irene Hannon fan, this book is a keeper!
September 27, 2017
Really good book to listen too!
April 3, 2020
Another amazing book by Irene Hannon. I just love the characters in the Private Justice series. Can't wait to get to the next one!
September 22, 2014
Check out my other reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
This is the first novel that I've read by Irene Hannon and honestly, I received this book a long time ago. Somehow it just fell through the cracks in my TBR list. All in all, it was a great novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. I will definitely pick up another novel by her ... if my huge issue with this book is resolved!! More on that a bit later ...
Now, this is the second book in a series and while I usually don't start a series in the middle because you never know if there is pertinent information that you might have missed by not reading the prior books, I'm glad that I didn't shy away from it. I don't think that I missed anything pertaining to this story by not reading the previous novel. It really could be a stand alone, I believe. So if you're interested in this one and you haven't read the first one, go ahead. It's good and you won't be disappointed.
I really enjoyed the character development. I was able to get to know Laura and Dev quite easily and become attached to them really fast. The way that Hannon wrote Laura, I really felt for her in her current situation. I was able to kind of coast along on her emotional roller-coaster as if she was a friend of mine. Same with Dev. I loved both of these main characters and I enjoyed all of the secondary characters as well.
There was a real sense of fulfillment when I finished this novel. I didn't have any questions unanswered or sense anything was left unfinished. Like I said, all in all, it was a great novel.
But. BUUUUUT. As my grandfather would say, this really chapped my ass. The copy I received did not say that it was an ARC. If you aren't familiar with the term ARC, it means Advanced Reader Copy ... basically it means that there will be some editing issues, either grammar or otherwise, within the novel but that the publishing house wanted to get these complimentary copies out as quickly as possible to get reviews all set up before the novel actually drops. Anyway, reading an ARC doesn't bother me - I know that I'm in store for some editing issues and I'm okay with that. But when this novel didn't say that it was an ARC and EVERY SINGLE word that has "ff" or "ffi" missing ... this is a problem. A big problem. Because it pulls you away from the story every time you have to decipher what these words are: oense, oce, o-limits, o, puy, muns, oers, o-the-cu. In case you couldn't figure it out, those words are offense, office, off-limits, off, puffy, muffins, offers, off-the-cuff ... and that was just a few!! It was all over the book and on every single freaking page. To be honest, I wanted to give the book even lower ratings because of this but I just couldn't because the story line was so great. I'm betting that there are some people who just wouldn't read the damn thing after the 785th spelling issue. I don't know what donkey messed up and had all of the ff's and ffi's deleted but I would really like to poke them in the eye.
Now that I'm done with my long rant, this was really a good book. I'm hoping that the above F-issue was resolved for final e-book copy that is everywhere. Because if it isn't, I'm grabbing a torch and I'm going to storm the publishing company castle.
April 25, 2016
SUMMARY: When librarian Laura Griffith's sixteen-year-old sister disappears on a frigid February day, leaving only a brief note behind, Laura resolves to do whatever it takes to track down the runaway teen. That includes recruiting ATF agent turned PI James Devlin to help. But the deeper he digs, the more he begins to suspect that something sinister is at work in the girl's disappearance. And the closer he gets to uncovering the truth, the clearer it becomes that the situation isn't just dangerous--it's deadly.
Chilling and at times terrifying, Trapped is the latest thrilling read from Irene Hannon, the queen of romantic suspense. Hannon outdoes herself with this fast-paced tale of fear, deception, and just the right dose of romance.
REVIEW: This is the second book in the Private Justice series. I found this one more interesting than the first one. This was because the topic seemed to fit so well with today's society and the many kidnappings and hostage situations that presently take place. The storyline was intense and chilling with just the right amount of sweet romance thrown in to keep the reader turning pages from start to finish.
I really identified with Laura being a librarian and growing up immersing herself in books. I lived in the world of books growing up as well and became an elementary reading teacher. Laura really grew as a character and had hidden depths such as her fencing that let you see her hidden strengths. I loved Dev in Vanished and he continued to be an interesting character throughout this book as well. It was nice to have Cal and Connor included again as well. I am hoping the next book will focus on Connor. Another great series from Irene Hannon who is a masterful storyteller of suspense filled romance.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "I haven't know you very long, but my sense is that you're a man of integrity and character; and that any culpability you bear for what happened to your partner has been atoned for by the burden of gu9ilt and grief you've carried all these years. The other thing to remember is that God doesn't expect perfection. All he asks is that we learn from our mistakes and try to do better in the future. He forgives us far more easily than we often forgive ourselves. He also heals the brokenhearted and saves those whose spirit is crushed."
"When things got really bad back then, I tried to remember what my father always told me whenever I got mad at God or complained he wasn't paying attention to my prayers. He sad the tougher things got, the harder I had to look to see God. But if I did look hard, I'd find him."
Chilling and at times terrifying, Trapped is the latest thrilling read from Irene Hannon, the queen of romantic suspense. Hannon outdoes herself with this fast-paced tale of fear, deception, and just the right dose of romance.
REVIEW: This is the second book in the Private Justice series. I found this one more interesting than the first one. This was because the topic seemed to fit so well with today's society and the many kidnappings and hostage situations that presently take place. The storyline was intense and chilling with just the right amount of sweet romance thrown in to keep the reader turning pages from start to finish.
I really identified with Laura being a librarian and growing up immersing herself in books. I lived in the world of books growing up as well and became an elementary reading teacher. Laura really grew as a character and had hidden depths such as her fencing that let you see her hidden strengths. I loved Dev in Vanished and he continued to be an interesting character throughout this book as well. It was nice to have Cal and Connor included again as well. I am hoping the next book will focus on Connor. Another great series from Irene Hannon who is a masterful storyteller of suspense filled romance.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "I haven't know you very long, but my sense is that you're a man of integrity and character; and that any culpability you bear for what happened to your partner has been atoned for by the burden of gu9ilt and grief you've carried all these years. The other thing to remember is that God doesn't expect perfection. All he asks is that we learn from our mistakes and try to do better in the future. He forgives us far more easily than we often forgive ourselves. He also heals the brokenhearted and saves those whose spirit is crushed."
"When things got really bad back then, I tried to remember what my father always told me whenever I got mad at God or complained he wasn't paying attention to my prayers. He sad the tougher things got, the harder I had to look to see God. But if I did look hard, I'd find him."
October 15, 2013
Sharing my thoughts~Besides strong main characters, this book also has multidimensional secondary characters, and I especially enjoyed the camaraderie between the three PI's and Nikki, the office manager. I also feel like I got to know Darcy as well as Dev and Laura. After Darcy's free-spirited mother died, and then her elderly father, Darcy moved in with Laura, who didn't know anything about raising a teen. Stifled by Laura's old-fashioned rules and feeling responsible for her father's death, Darcy runs away, headed towards Chicago, but a storm grounds her in St. Louis. Little clips showing Darcy's transformation from obnoxious to grateful as the story unfolded helped me better understood her motivation.
"Even if Laura's intentions were good, rules were for kids. If she had stayed, they'd keep clashing, just as she and her dad had. And look how that had ended."
At one point in the book (not giving away any spoilers here!), I felt Laura acted irrationally for the danger she was in, but since she was worried about her sister, I decided to cut her some slack. If I'd been faced with a similar predicament, I probably would have rushed into the same situation. How many times have I made spur-of-the-moment decisions and then regretted them later?
What a fast-paced, chilling thriller made even more frightening because it's something that happens in real life! We inherently trust people because they look "safe" or because of their occupation. Scary! I picked up Trapped one evening while my husband was gone, and at times, my palms were sweating and my heart pounded with fear, but did that stop me from reading? Noooo. I just had to keep reading because with every page I flipped, the situation was too intense to put the book down. While the plot moved along at extreme speed, I felt the romance was a bit on the lean side, only really heating up at the end of the book, but I guess that's to be expected with the amount of action in this one. The faith thread was a gentle strand, weaved subtly through the book.
Trapped is the second book in the Private Justice series, but can be read as a stand alone. I just don't recommend reading it alone. I'm still turning on lights and checking doors. :)
Disclosure: Sending a big thanks to NetGalley and Revell for providing me with an advance review copy. The opinions expressed in this review are my own, and I received no monetary compensation.
"Even if Laura's intentions were good, rules were for kids. If she had stayed, they'd keep clashing, just as she and her dad had. And look how that had ended."
At one point in the book (not giving away any spoilers here!), I felt Laura acted irrationally for the danger she was in, but since she was worried about her sister, I decided to cut her some slack. If I'd been faced with a similar predicament, I probably would have rushed into the same situation. How many times have I made spur-of-the-moment decisions and then regretted them later?
What a fast-paced, chilling thriller made even more frightening because it's something that happens in real life! We inherently trust people because they look "safe" or because of their occupation. Scary! I picked up Trapped one evening while my husband was gone, and at times, my palms were sweating and my heart pounded with fear, but did that stop me from reading? Noooo. I just had to keep reading because with every page I flipped, the situation was too intense to put the book down. While the plot moved along at extreme speed, I felt the romance was a bit on the lean side, only really heating up at the end of the book, but I guess that's to be expected with the amount of action in this one. The faith thread was a gentle strand, weaved subtly through the book.
Trapped is the second book in the Private Justice series, but can be read as a stand alone. I just don't recommend reading it alone. I'm still turning on lights and checking doors. :)
Disclosure: Sending a big thanks to NetGalley and Revell for providing me with an advance review copy. The opinions expressed in this review are my own, and I received no monetary compensation.
August 10, 2013
The second book in The Guardians of Justice series was AWESOME!! This book features Phoenix Inc. former ATF associate James "Dev" Devlin. Dev is the perfect hero for this story and I enjoyed every bit of his story.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Darcy and Laura have not gotten along since Darcy moved in with Laura after her father died. Laura's rules are too strict for 16 year old Darcy and she feels that they would both be better off if she leaves. Planning to start a new life away from Laura, Darcy leaves during the worst storm of the year. With all bus travel cancelled Darcy refuses to go home to Laura. Meeting up with another girl on the streets who helps her learn the ropes of the homeless shelters Darcy is just about ready to go home when they meet someone that offers them shelter in a better place. Believing that with the two of them sticking together they will be safe they take up the offer. Thus begins Darcy's nightmare.
When Laura Griffith hires the Phoenix Inc. group to find her missing run-away half-sister Darcy neither she nor Dev are looking for romance. All Laura can think about is what could have happened to Darcy. And Dev knows that dating the client is against company policy. There is something about Laura though that causes Dev to trust her, even with his most intimate secret. For Laura, Dev quickly becomes a man she can trust.
MY THOUGHTS:
The first book in the series VANISHED kept me turning pages and wanting more of this group of detectives. TRAPPED did not disappoint. From the very beginning TRAPPED had me hooked. The suspense was intense and the romance was sweet. Now that I have read Cal and Dev's story I am looking forward to seeing what the author has in store for Connor the last partner in Phoenix Inc. There is a teaser chapter at the end of TRAPPED for DECEIVED coming out in 2014. I enjoyed the teasing that the group of friends have with each other along with Nikki their office manager. They were pretty relentless in teasing Dev about their new client Laura so I can only imagine what is going to happen when Connor has his turn. If you read VANISHED I don't think you will be disappointed in TRAPPED...I wasn't!
I received my copy from NetGalley. This is my honest review. TRAPPED will be available for purchase September 1, 2013.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Darcy and Laura have not gotten along since Darcy moved in with Laura after her father died. Laura's rules are too strict for 16 year old Darcy and she feels that they would both be better off if she leaves. Planning to start a new life away from Laura, Darcy leaves during the worst storm of the year. With all bus travel cancelled Darcy refuses to go home to Laura. Meeting up with another girl on the streets who helps her learn the ropes of the homeless shelters Darcy is just about ready to go home when they meet someone that offers them shelter in a better place. Believing that with the two of them sticking together they will be safe they take up the offer. Thus begins Darcy's nightmare.
When Laura Griffith hires the Phoenix Inc. group to find her missing run-away half-sister Darcy neither she nor Dev are looking for romance. All Laura can think about is what could have happened to Darcy. And Dev knows that dating the client is against company policy. There is something about Laura though that causes Dev to trust her, even with his most intimate secret. For Laura, Dev quickly becomes a man she can trust.
MY THOUGHTS:
The first book in the series VANISHED kept me turning pages and wanting more of this group of detectives. TRAPPED did not disappoint. From the very beginning TRAPPED had me hooked. The suspense was intense and the romance was sweet. Now that I have read Cal and Dev's story I am looking forward to seeing what the author has in store for Connor the last partner in Phoenix Inc. There is a teaser chapter at the end of TRAPPED for DECEIVED coming out in 2014. I enjoyed the teasing that the group of friends have with each other along with Nikki their office manager. They were pretty relentless in teasing Dev about their new client Laura so I can only imagine what is going to happen when Connor has his turn. If you read VANISHED I don't think you will be disappointed in TRAPPED...I wasn't!
I received my copy from NetGalley. This is my honest review. TRAPPED will be available for purchase September 1, 2013.
September 15, 2013
I’ve read a couple books by Irene Hannon and found them to be a good blend of suspense, romance, and faith. I was expecting to enjoy Trapped just as much, but found it a little underwhelming.
Let’s start with the suspense angle. There wasn’t much. I felt like the whole book was pretty predictable. There was one thing that surprised me and it wasn’t that much of a surprise. The pace was slow and there really wasn’t a whole lot going on for most of the book. However, the last few chapters ratcheted up the action and made it enjoyable.
I would’ve liked to see the secondary characters developed a little more. Darcy, the teenage runaway/kidnap victim, wasn’t much more than a cliché. Dev’s PI partners, Cal and Connor, were both likable, but rarely seen. Since this is the second book in the Private Justice series, I gathered the first book was about Cal, so readers should’ve been already acquainted with him. The next book in the series I would assume will be about Connor, so he’ll be more fully developed in that book. My biggest complaint about this type of series – where each book is focused on a different character – is that it seems like an excuse to only develop one set of characters at a time. And then when you like those characters, they’re pushed to the background in the next book and almost forgotten. This complaint is one for the genre, though, and not just this particular book.
The faith of the characters in the story sets it apart from your normal romantic suspense. Hannon does a pretty good job of letting Laura’s faith define her character and it never seems like it’s a reach when she prays or talks about God. However, it seems to be a much less central theme in the story than the other books I’ve read by Hannon and I would’ve liked to see more of Darcy and Dev’s spiritual growth.
Overall, this book was just ok for me. It moved much too slow for me to be suspenseful and it felt like it was way too long. Fans of Hannon may still find it enjoyable, but I would direct readers unfamiliar with her work to pick up Fatal Judgment or Against All Odds.
To see my whole review go to: http://stephaniesbookreviews.wordpres...
Let’s start with the suspense angle. There wasn’t much. I felt like the whole book was pretty predictable. There was one thing that surprised me and it wasn’t that much of a surprise. The pace was slow and there really wasn’t a whole lot going on for most of the book. However, the last few chapters ratcheted up the action and made it enjoyable.
I would’ve liked to see the secondary characters developed a little more. Darcy, the teenage runaway/kidnap victim, wasn’t much more than a cliché. Dev’s PI partners, Cal and Connor, were both likable, but rarely seen. Since this is the second book in the Private Justice series, I gathered the first book was about Cal, so readers should’ve been already acquainted with him. The next book in the series I would assume will be about Connor, so he’ll be more fully developed in that book. My biggest complaint about this type of series – where each book is focused on a different character – is that it seems like an excuse to only develop one set of characters at a time. And then when you like those characters, they’re pushed to the background in the next book and almost forgotten. This complaint is one for the genre, though, and not just this particular book.
The faith of the characters in the story sets it apart from your normal romantic suspense. Hannon does a pretty good job of letting Laura’s faith define her character and it never seems like it’s a reach when she prays or talks about God. However, it seems to be a much less central theme in the story than the other books I’ve read by Hannon and I would’ve liked to see more of Darcy and Dev’s spiritual growth.
Overall, this book was just ok for me. It moved much too slow for me to be suspenseful and it felt like it was way too long. Fans of Hannon may still find it enjoyable, but I would direct readers unfamiliar with her work to pick up Fatal Judgment or Against All Odds.
To see my whole review go to: http://stephaniesbookreviews.wordpres...
October 17, 2013
Laura Griffith hires private investigator James Devlin of Protection Inc. to find her sixteen-year-old half-sister, who has run away in the middle of a St Louis blizzard. The weather has shut down transport, so they know she is still in the city, but the race is on to find her before it’s too late.
I found the first half of Trapped a real struggle to engage with. I didn’t connect with any of the main characters—Laura came across as boring (and not because she’s a librarian. I thought she was boring before that even came up). Dev seemed to be more interested in checking out Laura’s legs than thinking about how to find Darcy (the teens I know don’t phone their friends. They text, email, Facebook and FaceTime them, yet all Dev did was check Darcy’s call records). Darcy, while self-absorbed and unappreciative, at least seemed to think and act like a typical teenage girl (self-absorbed and unappreciative). I didn’t like her, but at least I could understand her.
I also found the story predictable, a problem I’ve had with several recent Irene Hannon romantic suspense novels. I keep hoping she’ll rediscover whatever it was that I so enjoyed about her Heroes of Quantico trilogy, and I keep being disappointed. The writing in Trapped was good, but good writing isn’t enough to overcome lacklustre characters and a been-there plot.
Overall, while I finished Trapped, the first half was a chore and I don’t like it when reading becomes a chore. The second half was fast-paced and exciting, but it was a real struggle to get there. I almost gave up, and that doesn’t happen often. When I want to give up but persevere I usually find the second half even more boring than the first, which makes Trapped the exception that proves my rule.
Trapped is the second in the Private Justice series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
I found the first half of Trapped a real struggle to engage with. I didn’t connect with any of the main characters—Laura came across as boring (and not because she’s a librarian. I thought she was boring before that even came up). Dev seemed to be more interested in checking out Laura’s legs than thinking about how to find Darcy (the teens I know don’t phone their friends. They text, email, Facebook and FaceTime them, yet all Dev did was check Darcy’s call records). Darcy, while self-absorbed and unappreciative, at least seemed to think and act like a typical teenage girl (self-absorbed and unappreciative). I didn’t like her, but at least I could understand her.
I also found the story predictable, a problem I’ve had with several recent Irene Hannon romantic suspense novels. I keep hoping she’ll rediscover whatever it was that I so enjoyed about her Heroes of Quantico trilogy, and I keep being disappointed. The writing in Trapped was good, but good writing isn’t enough to overcome lacklustre characters and a been-there plot.
Overall, while I finished Trapped, the first half was a chore and I don’t like it when reading becomes a chore. The second half was fast-paced and exciting, but it was a real struggle to get there. I almost gave up, and that doesn’t happen often. When I want to give up but persevere I usually find the second half even more boring than the first, which makes Trapped the exception that proves my rule.
Trapped is the second in the Private Justice series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
September 7, 2013
My thoughts: As usual, Irene Hannon's writing is superb and she manages to capture the readers (my) attention throughout the book. I did, however, find this a harder read for me than usual. Suspense is intriguing and the pursuit of the wrong-doer by the defenders of society is always thrilling. However, this particular story deals with a psychopath or psychosis of a criminal mind. It involves the tragedy of a run away teen girl who becomes entrapped by a psycho. The danger. The fear. The terror are all there. And it was just a little much for me this time.
I did finish the book and was grateful for the good ending. Again, Irene Hannon, has handled the subject and the characters with care and taste. There is none of the super-thriller-horror story elements in there. Just good story telling of a bad situation. This story was especially noteworthy at this point in time because of the women just freed from their kidnapper who tortured and abused them for years in his home undetected by society. So the risk of this story being real is very much present and very much to be feared
More about the author: Irene Hannon’s website, twitter and facebook:
•http://www.irenehannon.com/
•https://twitter.com/IreneHannon
•https://www.facebook.com/pages/Irene-...
“Available August 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group for the purpose of rendering my honest opinion. Opinions are solely my own. I received no compensation for this review.
I did finish the book and was grateful for the good ending. Again, Irene Hannon, has handled the subject and the characters with care and taste. There is none of the super-thriller-horror story elements in there. Just good story telling of a bad situation. This story was especially noteworthy at this point in time because of the women just freed from their kidnapper who tortured and abused them for years in his home undetected by society. So the risk of this story being real is very much present and very much to be feared
More about the author: Irene Hannon’s website, twitter and facebook:
•http://www.irenehannon.com/
•https://twitter.com/IreneHannon
•https://www.facebook.com/pages/Irene-...
“Available August 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group for the purpose of rendering my honest opinion. Opinions are solely my own. I received no compensation for this review.
September 10, 2013
This is the second book in Irene Hannon's new series and she does not disappoint.
This book features the second detective in the Phoenix Private Detective agency, James Devlin, better known at Dev.
Laura Griffith's 16 year old half sister, who has come to live with her, has gone missing and Laura hires Dev to find her.
Dev digs deep into the case and he begins to suspect more than just a runaway teen angry at rules in her new home.
Something sinister is definitely afoot.
I love Irene Hannon's books because they are never slow starting. They keep your interest from the very beginning and move along at such a fast clip, that by the last, your heart is pounding with the suspense. Seriously, my heart was pounding. No kidding.
She makes the reader grab hold and hang on for dear life as she concludes a thrilling ride. And the teaser for the next book sounds absolutely breathtaking! I wish I didn't have to wait a year for the last in the series.
I never fail to buy an Irene Hannon book because I know it's money well spent. ( )
This book features the second detective in the Phoenix Private Detective agency, James Devlin, better known at Dev.
Laura Griffith's 16 year old half sister, who has come to live with her, has gone missing and Laura hires Dev to find her.
Dev digs deep into the case and he begins to suspect more than just a runaway teen angry at rules in her new home.
Something sinister is definitely afoot.
I love Irene Hannon's books because they are never slow starting. They keep your interest from the very beginning and move along at such a fast clip, that by the last, your heart is pounding with the suspense. Seriously, my heart was pounding. No kidding.
She makes the reader grab hold and hang on for dear life as she concludes a thrilling ride. And the teaser for the next book sounds absolutely breathtaking! I wish I didn't have to wait a year for the last in the series.
I never fail to buy an Irene Hannon book because I know it's money well spent. ( )
December 28, 2015
At first this was a little tough for me. I tend to be sensitive and reading about a teenager (like my own) in a situation that could be from today's headlines was almost too much for me. Boy am I glad I persevered! What a creepy, suspenseful book! Exciting! I read at work (and shrieked at work) and squealed at home reading this book. Nice blend of romance too though I admit I was impatient with it at the end when I wanted to get to the action! Such a fabulous fabulous suspenseful book!
August 12, 2015
Love this book! It's even better than book one, I think.
June 20, 2016
Wow, was this a nail-biter! Literally. My poor nails are much shorter after reading this book. Intense, some action, unpredictable, and good chemistry between the leads. Loved it!
August 14, 2019
Reading Challenge Categories:
-April Bookish Bingo: Librarian protagonist
-#LittenLoveBingo: Published by a publisher on Litsy
-April Bookish Bingo: Librarian protagonist
-#LittenLoveBingo: Published by a publisher on Litsy
March 25, 2021
I read this when it first came out in 2013 and revisited it thanks to my library's audio collection. Still just as good the second time 'round.
I knew I'd love this book so it is no surprise that Irene Hannon has done it again -- managed to create another breath-stealing, nail-biting, page-turning suspense. I spent most of the read screaming at the characters so excuse me if I'm a bit hoarse. Alas, they all proved to be reader-deaf so my "Stop!" and "Don't open the door!!!!" and "Look in the window!!!" and "Nooooo don't go out there!!!!!" etc were all in vain. I think I need a de-stressing massage after reading Trapped.
Hannon keeps the plot moving at a high powered pace while still managing to create incredible depth in relationships. It's an infuriating combination because you want to race ahead to keep up with the suspense but you also want to slow down and savor the friendships...and romance. A winning combination that is guaranteed to thrill the avid romantic suspense lover.
I knew I'd love this book so it is no surprise that Irene Hannon has done it again -- managed to create another breath-stealing, nail-biting, page-turning suspense. I spent most of the read screaming at the characters so excuse me if I'm a bit hoarse. Alas, they all proved to be reader-deaf so my "Stop!" and "Don't open the door!!!!" and "Look in the window!!!" and "Nooooo don't go out there!!!!!" etc were all in vain. I think I need a de-stressing massage after reading Trapped.
Hannon keeps the plot moving at a high powered pace while still managing to create incredible depth in relationships. It's an infuriating combination because you want to race ahead to keep up with the suspense but you also want to slow down and savor the friendships...and romance. A winning combination that is guaranteed to thrill the avid romantic suspense lover.
January 25, 2024
3.75 stars
When Laura takes on her 16-year-old sister after their father dies, things don't work out the way she hoped. Darcy is a typical rebellious teenager who was used to a no rule household. Laura, older and pretty strait laced is having trouble getting thru to Darcy. Darcy decides she can do better if she runs away to a friend's house. Due to severe weather conditions, Darcy is delayed getting out of town.
Laura enlists a P.I. to help find Darcy when she feels the police are not doing enough.
I liked the storyline, and the way everything played out. This was a well-developed story and believable in today's sicko filled world.
I don't know if it is on purpose, or something this author doesn't realize, but there are several times she uses the exact phrasing that for some reason irked me. ex- John thought she liked him, or maybe it was wishful thinking. He hoped it was the latter. Or Jane smelled weed, but maybe it was a skunk. She hoped it was the latter. Multiple times this phrasing would come up. There are many ways to say this without using the same line over and over. IMO
Otherwise, a quick, enjoyable read.
When Laura takes on her 16-year-old sister after their father dies, things don't work out the way she hoped. Darcy is a typical rebellious teenager who was used to a no rule household. Laura, older and pretty strait laced is having trouble getting thru to Darcy. Darcy decides she can do better if she runs away to a friend's house. Due to severe weather conditions, Darcy is delayed getting out of town.
Laura enlists a P.I. to help find Darcy when she feels the police are not doing enough.
I liked the storyline, and the way everything played out. This was a well-developed story and believable in today's sicko filled world.
I don't know if it is on purpose, or something this author doesn't realize, but there are several times she uses the exact phrasing that for some reason irked me. ex- John thought she liked him, or maybe it was wishful thinking. He hoped it was the latter. Or Jane smelled weed, but maybe it was a skunk. She hoped it was the latter. Multiple times this phrasing would come up. There are many ways to say this without using the same line over and over. IMO
Otherwise, a quick, enjoyable read.
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