| Title | : | Never Let Go (Uncommon Justice, #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0800729846 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780800729844 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 363 |
| Publication | : | First published February 5, 2019 |
Ex-FBI agent--and Willow's ex-flame--Austin McKade readily offers his help to protect the woman he never should have let get away. Together they'll follow where the clues lead them, even if it means Austin must face the past he's spent much of his life trying to forget. And even if it puts Willow's tender heart at risk.
In this fast-paced and emotional page-turner, bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard keeps the stakes high, the romantic tension sparking, and the outcome uncertain until the very end.
Never Let Go (Uncommon Justice, #1) Reviews
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About this book:
“As a forensic genealogist, Willow Anderson is following in her late grandfather's footsteps in her quest for answers about a baby abducted from the hospital more than twenty years ago. The case may be cold, but things are about to heat up when someone makes an attempt on her life to keep her from discovering the truth.
Ex-FBI agent--and Willow's ex-flame--Austin McKade readily offers his help to protect the woman he never should have let get away. Together they'll follow where the clues lead them, even if it means Austin must face the past he's spent much of his life trying to forget. And even if it puts Willow's tender heart at risk.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Uncommon Justice” trilogy.
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are remembered; Many Prayers & Thanking God; 'H's are not capital when referring to God; At one point, Willow feels like God is far away from her; Charlie is new to having a faith and prays for God to help her survive (she doesn’t understand why that if God cares about her, why this is all happening, but prays anyway); Katelyn has doubts about continue searching for her baby and thinks that “nothing in Scripture could help her silence the doubts”; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, thanking God, & blessings over food; A few mentions of churches & church going; A couple mentions of someone saying another can do miracles; A mention of a Bible; A mention of a man being pushy about his religion, but Charlie was grateful that she listened to him on that point; A mention of being Blessed; A mention of a monk on the way to evening prayers;
*Note: A few mentions of battling demons; A mention of evil winning with the death of someone; A mention of someone being lucky; A mention of a Phoenix; A mention of a family curse being that they hide things from each other.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘heck’, a ‘hurts like heck’, a ‘shut up’, a ‘suck it up’, a ‘what the heck’, two ‘idiot’s, two ‘shoot’s, and seven ‘stupid’s; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); A bit of sarcasm; Recalling seeing a murder of a loved one, being threatened, & being chased by a murderer (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Throwing a knife & killing someone (up to semi-detailed); Being shot, being tased, being held at gunpoint, being attacked, being abducted, being chased, a car wreck, pain, injuries, blood/bleeding, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); A break-in, being threatened with a knife, gunshots, & shooting at someone (self-defense, up to semi-detailed); A fire & being trapped (up to semi-detailed); Jumping into a river (barely-above-not-detailed); Thinking you could be killed & pushed down a ravine (barely-above-not-detailed); Panic attacks & close ones (up to semi-detailed); Nightmares (up to semi-detailed): Lying (for answers that they need and also to not reveal what they’re thinking); A dog runs away (and does not return); The prologue is of a woman stealing a newborn baby from a hospital (an abduction; the biological mother has cancer and wasn’t expected to live long); Grieving (Willow is grieving the sudden death of her grandfather who raised her & Charlie is grieving her mother); All about many mentions of abductions (mostly child abductions), the abductors, & ransom notes (including how Austin used to work in the Child Abduction Rapid Deployment team, a few mentions of someone having to shoot another who was going to kill a child in front of the child, and a couple mentions of a few children dying or almost dying at the hands of their abductors (either directly or indirectly), all up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of murders, murderers, seeing a murder, being threatened & a hit-and-run (which caused a death of someone on a bicycle, all up to semi-detailed); Mentions of car accidents, deaths, & drunk driving (Willow’s parents & Austin’s dad, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of fires, a death, someone being trapped, arson, & arsonist (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of gunshots, shooting at someone, others being shot, a close call, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of break-ins, crimes, & criminals; Mentions of stalkers & being stalked; Mentions of a mother leaving her abusive husband & leaving her young children with him (*Spoiler* ); Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunk driving, & an alcoholic and abusive father (*Spoiler* ); Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of cancer diagnoses & someone being told they have a certain amount of time to live; Mentions of grieving (a grandfather, parents, & a daughter); Mentions of nightmares; Mentions of moose and elk being hit by cars (the cars are totaled and the injured animals disappeared); A few mentions of wars & the Holocaust; A few mentions of an ex-husband beating his ex-wife almost to death; A few mentions of plane crashes & a death; A few mentions of stolen cars; A few mentions of jail/prison; A few mentions of search and rescues for missing people; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of terrorists & them taking children; A couple mentions of bombs/explosions; A couple mentions of a man giving a woman bruises; A couple mentions of gossip; A couple mentions of divorces; A mention of someone’s daughter being involved with drugs; A mention of thugs; A mention of cigarettes; A mention of tattoos; A mention of hunting; A mention of something possibly happening to a runaway dog; A mention of animal droppings;
*Note: There is a side character with dementia; Mentions of brand names & items (GoPro, iPad, iPhone, Sirius Satellite Radio, Coach purses, Crocs, Dr. Pepper, Crock-Pot, & Coleman); Mentions of car brands; A few mentions of McDonald’s; A couple mentions of social media sites (Facebook); A mention of a fictional character from Lord of the Rings; A mention of a magazine (Reader’s Digest).
Sexual Content- Two detailed kisses; Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Tingles, Warmth, Nearness, & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (mainly Austin to longs for Willow, border-line barely-above-not-detailed to semi-detailed); Noticing (including Austin noticing Willow’s form-fitting jeans, barely-above-not-detailed); Willow and Austin broke-up prior to the story starting due to Austin not being willing to share about his past/secrets or his family; Mentions of affairs, cheating, & secret children; Mentions of kisses; Mentions of boyfriends/girlfriends, exes, & break-ups; A few mentions of flirting & flings; A couple mentions of a woman meeting a man at hotel & her willing to have his baby (unmarried); A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of a family’s children being taken by terrorists for sex trafficking (the country this happened in is not named); A mention of staring at someone’s lips; A mention of a man’s possessiveness over a woman; A mention of a crush; Love, falling/being in love, & the emotions.
-Willow Anderson
-Austin McKade
P.O.V. switches between them, Charlie, Katelyn (x1), & Heath (x2)
363 pages
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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Four Stars
My first book by this author was a hit and I’m thrilled about it.
I wasn’t sure what to expect about this book; in all honesty the back-cover blurb didn’t sound the most exciting to me (mostly because I’m not a big fan of reading the second-chance romances/old flames reunited trope—more on that in a bit) but the forensic genealogist aspect of the book really intrigued me. This might be an odd thing to note, but if you’re someone who, when at a cemetery, looks at different grave markers and wonder about those people’s lives, this might be a book that would interest you. (Obviously, I’m this kind of person, but I know there has to be others like this, so I refuse to think that it’s weird.)
First things first, I really, really, really liked the writing style found in this novel. It was very much a play-by-play of every important action or event and was what really pulled me into the story.
As far as our main characters go, both Willow and Austin were good characters. He was very much that “written by a woman” male lead (a man that’s kind, respectful, and just an overall good guy that’s very much in love with the main girl), but I still liked him. He wasn’t afraid to show his emotions even though he’s keeping a lot of secrets from Willow, his ex. Like I’ve said previously, I’m not one for the second-chance romances/old flames reunited trope, but it worked well in this story. It was nice to see both of them having a faith, though the faith content was on the lighter side with only them praying and talking to God often (no discussions or comments, really). A couple kisses were a bit much for my tastes, but I do appreciate that they weren’t focused so much on the other’s physical looks.
The ending felt a little out-of-left field and a touch rushed, but I suppose that it could happen like that. I wasn’t unsatisfied by the ending, at least.
I actually paused halfway through reading this book to make sure I owned the second book in the series because it’s Heath’s story—needless to say, I’m very much looking forward to reading that one soon!
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author. -
This is the first book I've read by this author and I want to know why? Why haven't I read her books before? Right from the prologue of the story I was hooked! This book is really intense it takes us through the wilds of Wyoming. I loved reading the description of the rugged terrain as forensic genealogist, Willow Anderson and Ex-FBI agent--and Willow's ex-flame--Austin McKade traverse it just to survive. I loved seeing how Austin does everything in his power to protect Willow, even putting his own life on the line. We all need a protector like this! I was holding my breath a few times as I read how things were played out in the high intensity parts.
I eagerly look forward to reading Uncommon Justice, the next book in this series coming Fall 2019 from Revell.
Published February 5th 2019 by Fleming H. Revell Company
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own. -
In this fast-paced and emotional page-turner, bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard keeps the stakes high, the romantic tension sparking, and the outcome uncertain until the very end.
Do you ever pick up a book and from the first page you know it’s going to really good? Well, Never Let Go, book one in Elizabeth Goddard’s new Uncommon Justice Series is one of those books. The opening scene is so powerful that you can’t stop reading before the scene ends. And then, when you finish the opening, Goddard has done her job superbly, and you can’t put down the book but have to read the entire story to find out how the prologue resolves. As an author, I really appreciate her skill in doing so!
But don’t think reading on is a hardship because Goddard had added such lovely characters and plot twists a plenty in the book that you will want to keep reading. It’s a real emotional page-turner with a splendid romance woven in, and a suspense plot that keeps the story moving at a fast pace. I can hardly wait for the second book in the series.
So do yourself a favor and pick up your copy today. You won’t be sorry you did -
*squeals* I loved this suspense nugget of a book! 😀 I normally have high expectations for Christian suspense novels (having read all really good ones), and I’m really glad to say that Never Let Go fit the bill! It was quite a bit more intense than I would’ve liked it to be, but nothing over the top. Really kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat the whole time. 😉
The forensic-genealogist-ness part of it was done pretty well. I like that most of the clue solving was actually solved using clues instead of by luck- I’d like to say that overall it seemed pretty realistic.
I actually didn’t love Willow Anderson. :/ Her character felt a bit flat to me- I didn’t feel like she had much personality at all and it’d be hard to say I know her well as a main character. Austin, however, I really liked. 😀 I thought his being the ex-FBI agent was a really unique twist, and it was cool seeing where that came into play. And also he’s such a sweet person. ❤
Overall, I really enjoyed Never Let Go. It’s not my favorite suspense novel ever, due to me not liking the main character much, but still one worthy of a read. I’d recommend it! 4 stars.
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required. -
I really enjoyed this book! I particularly enjoyed Austin's point of view, as he's dealing with the trauma in his past. He felt very relateable, even though he was terrified to open up about himself.
I enjoyed the depth of the mystery, and trying to get it figured out before the end. I did guess the who the bad guy was, but wasn't sure of the connection until the end. I stayed up late to finish it. -
"Never Let Go" is a romantic suspense novel. Unfortunately, the story just didn't work for me. Austin deals with emotional trauma in his past by ignoring it. Willow can't help but dig up a person's past. This is given as the reason their relationship didn't work, so it should be great once Austin starts sharing about his past. Except her lack of trust is still a major issue. It's things like her asking (or agreeing) that he should leave, then feeling devastated that he's abandoning her (which he's never done). Or he's been doing sweet things for her and buys a necklace that she was admiring, and she's hurt and jealous that he must be buying that necklace for some unknown girlfriend. He even asks her, "Please, just trust me for once in your life!" And she does...once. Then she's back to assuming the worst about him. I don't understand why he's even attracted to her.
The mystery/suspense also didn't work for me. They followed up on a old clue and showed people an age-progressed picture of their suspect. People immediately know who she is. So why did the FBI agents not find her since they had a more accurate photo 21 years ago? And you know that the whole small town would have been talking about this young, single, local woman who, without getting pregnant, suddenly had a baby. And the one person who knew the identity of the Bad Guy had been killed by the start of our story, so I still don't understand why he was drawing attention (and a much more severe prison term) to himself by going around trying to kill the investigators. His tracks were already covered. And the girl still being alive was what was bringing about his ultimate aim. So why try to kill her and others to prevent her discovery? It just didn't make any sense.
And, finally, at about 60% of the way in, the story could have neatly wrapped up. So the author had Austin's brother basically reason, "Everything my brother has told me fits the facts as I know them, but I won't ask him why he thinks he's working for the girl's birth mother. I'll just assume he's been hired by the killer (who is now trying to kill them?) and do my best to prevent them from finding the girl!" Talk about forced. Willow's main job in the story seemed to be doing things without thinking about the consequences, getting attacked by bad guys, and trying to stay alive long enough for Austin to save her. This just wasn't my type of book. There was no bad language or sex.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. -
Wow-zah. This was the first book I've read by Elizabeth Goddard, and I'll tell you now...it will not be my last.
The author wrote a captivating story with a prologue that will hook you and never let you go.
(😉😉)
She wrote wonderful characters who had a lot of pain and baggage they had to deal with. Lots of healing happened throughout the pages.
Austin fought A LOT of demons. He beat himself up over things he had no control over. He learned to hold secrets in until they almost killed him. Even though it took a lot for him to open up to people he had a strong relationship with God. He was a natural protector and had a hard time coping when his protection didn't always work.
Willow was brilliant! I love when the leading lady has her head on straight, and can keep it that way in stressful situations. She was a tenacious character, she would hunt down every lead or hunch to complete a task given to her. She was always caring when she did so. She relied heavily on God when she felt she hit a road block, and I really admired that about her.
That's one thing I really loved about these characters, they all had a relationship with God. They went to Him when they were in trouble, and even to just thank Him for his protection.
This was a GREAT suspenseful book. Once I hit the 3/4 mark the ball REALLY started rolling and I was on the edge of my seat. I couldn't wait to get to the end of the book to find out who the "bad guy" was!
I really enjoyed the premise of this book, and the book itself, and I can't wait for the next book in the series!
I rated it a 4/5 stars.
*I received this book from the publisher**All opinions are my own* -
Wow! Never Let Go was an intense story! This is one of my favorite books that this author has written. It was so interesting to watch as Willow and Austin worked to piece together the decades old kidnapping mystery, while trying to stay alive!
I loved the beautiful and rugged setting of Wyoming. It lent a wildness to the story that kept me on edge as I tried to work out who was behind the kidnapping of Jamie Mason. It was hard to know who to trust and clear that someone did not want their secret to become known.
The second chance love story between Willow and Austin was wonderful and left me feeling happy for all they had come through. What a great start to a new series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c... -
Elizabeth Goddard is a new to me author. This suspense novel kept my interest from start to finish. The opening pages definitely pulled me in right away...a stolen baby! Gasp!
The unraveling of what happened and why seemed plausible to me. I didn't guess who the villain was.
I look forward to continuing the series. -
I maybe had an inkling that the twist was coming, but I definitely did not guess the full backstory. I really wanted to just hug Charlie and protect her!
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This is the first novel I have read by Elizabeth Goddard and it definitely won't be the last. Never let Go is the first in the Uncommon Justice series.
One of the most interesting parts of the story to me was the fact that Willow, the main character, was a forensic genealogist. I was not aware of such a career so I found that quite fascinating. After her grandfather dies, Willow takes on one of his cases which involved finding the missing child of a woman who was dying. Her dream was to meet the daughter who had gone missing from the hospital right after she was born twenty-one years ago. This case definitely had it's challenges and through a series of page-turning events, it became quite obvious someone did not want Willow to track down this missing person and was willing to do whatever it took to keep Willow from finding the answers she was looking for. In addition to the edge of your seat suspense, the story came with romance as well. Austin, Willow's ex boyfriend, is the person who ends up helping her search for the missing girl. Can they move past the past to have a future together and will they find the missing girl in time? You'll have to read to find out.
I was given a copy of this novel from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. -
4.5 stars*
I liked this book a lot. There was a lot of action and I felt the storyline kept going at a steady pace. I have to say, I was very proud of myself because I knew who did it from the very point they were mentioned. 💪😁 It was hard to figure out why though and I thought Goddard did a good job at getting us to the conclusion.
I really thought the faith content was very good. It was throughout the whole book. The characters turned to God to ask Him for help, to give them strength in their circumstances, something that is severely lacking in quite a few CF books I have read. It was very nice to see.
I don't normally read romantic suspense, so this was fairly new for me. I think that the story could have used a little bit more light heartedness for me to have given it 5 stars, but otherwise I enjoyed it very much. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. -
Elizabeth Goddard is the author of numerous titles for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line, as well as several titles for Barbour Books, including the 2011 Carol Award-winning The Camera Never Lies. Never Let Go is the first in her new Uncommon Justice series, published by Revell.
Both the description and the cover immediately grabbed me when I first saw this book. Forensic genealogy and a cold case? I’m in. Our main characters, Willow Anderson and Austin McKade, both have emotion-packed backgrounds, and when they find themselves thrown together once again, they are forced to face their pasts. While I personally struggled to relate to the characters and understand their decisions, they are nonetheless soundly developed characters. Frankly, I enjoyed the secondary cast of characters more than the main ones. Heath McKade, Charlie Clemmons, and even John Houser are incredibly complex characters that I greatly enjoyed reading about.
Goddard certainly knows how to develop a plot that keeps you on your toes! With numerous twists and turns, and loads of action and suspense, Never Let Go will keep you reading late into the night to reach the final outcome. Just when I thought things were starting to resolve, they only got worse. I lost count of the number of plot twists.
Goddard’s writing style is very laid back and casual, and while I can’t say I enjoyed it overmuch, I think others would. I was also somewhat confused as to the villain's motive. I feel like that was revealed too quickly at the end, and therefore wasn't thoroughly fleshed out. My other main complaint would be the romance and the amount of romantic tension. Unfortunately, I found myself more annoyed with it instead of rooting for the characters, but that’s just based on my personal preference for romance.
Overall, if you are looking for a book with loads of action, suspense, and romance, this is definitely one to check out! I am looking forward to reading Heath’s story in Always Look Twice come October 2019! -
Romantic suspense is a genre that I read widely in, so when I read that Elizabeth Goddard was moving into a full-length romantic suspense novel from her shorter Love Inspired Suspense novels, I was intrigued. The novel, Never Let Go, does start out a little slow. Goddard spends a little too much time explaining Willow's and Austin's backstory right up front, even though she hints at a mystery to Austin's backstory. The backstory for Austin wasn't that big of a deal for me. I have seen it before. The idea of a stolen baby and trying to find it again was a neat mystery element, but it didn't seem to be the main point of the story's progression until about fifty percent into the novel. Then I started to read a random person's point of view belonging to Charlie, a girl, lost in the woods, hiding from her killer. Austin and Willow didn't appear to be any different than any other hero and heroines from previous romantic suspense novels. Overall, Never Let Go by Elizabeth Goddard is a mediocre romantic suspense novel that really didn't have me grasping for attention and clinging to the pages. I wished for more in depth of a tragic backstory for the hero. Fans of romantic suspense might enjoy the novel, but it fell short for me.
I received a complimentary copy of Never Let Go by Elizabeth Goddard from Revell Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own. -
The first page and the first paragraph grabbed my attention. I couldn't wait to read the whole story and find the outcome. From a stolen child to long hidden secrets, this story kept me guessing until the end. Powerful, full of mystery and action. Great story. I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required.
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Elizabeth Goddard's novel "Never Let Go" starts off with a bang, snatching you into a mystery that will keep you guessing throughout. She has crafted an intriguing cold-case with the underlying premise that sets things into action, and in those first few pages I wondered to myself what it would take for someone to be willing to go to such lengths for a baby and how it would feel to be that parent who experiences that. Goddard certainly has a fertile imagination, as the story is filled with unexpected twists and turns that will hold your attention as Willow and Austin work to track down the truth.
The one detractor for me is the way that the romance was depicted, as I'm not as much of a fan of novels where there is ongoing second guessing by the characters about their relationship and whether it is going to move forward or not. It is likely that many readers will enjoy this aspect of Willow and Austin's relationship, but the romantic elements of the novel just weren't for me. That said, I realize I am likely not the target audience of this novel, and I did certainly enjoy the suspense and the intrigue in the book, and how Goddard crafts the action into her scenes. I also enjoyed the spiritual overtones woven into the tale, such as when Willow turns to God in her darkest of moments. Readers will be reminded that God is there for them at all times, waiting to walk them through difficult circumstances if they would just turn to him.
Those readers who are looking for a blend of romance and mystery should grab a copy of "Never Let Go". I award this novel a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. -
Following the sudden death of her grandfather, forensic genealogist Willow Anderson continues his work on a cold case kidnapping that happened over 20 years ago. But when someone makes an attempt on her life, she knows that she is on the right track.
Former FBI agent, and Willow's Ex-Boyfriend Austin McKade offers his help. Austin must confront his past, if he's going to fight to win back the one who got away.
A fast paced read, with fantastic tension, strong characters lead this explosive read. I liked the intriguing and taunt plot, as well as the well done emotional element to this story.
Willow is determined to see this to the end, as this is the last case her grandfather was working on before his death. Her grandfather was a big part of her life, with a strong faith that inspired her daily. She isn't sure if she has the strength to follow in his footsteps as a forensic genealogist, and she tries to do what he would do and make him proud. She must use all of her wits to solve this case and make it out alive. I admired her perseverance and strong family and faith values.
Austin had a troubled childhood, and has always struggled to lay the past to rest. He is a loyal friend and is determined to help Willow, and be there for her this time. He's always kept a close guard on his heart with walls a mile high, he wants that to change and be someone that she can rely on.
A thrilling read, with compelling characters and a whirling plot, you don't know who to trust or where Willow and Austin can turn. It's pretty much non-stop action, but the strong character development is not neglected. There is strong faith, and a terrific plot that kept me guessing the whole way through and before I knew it--and way too soon I might add--the book was over. I was hanging on tight the whole time! There was a full cast of characters, and I couldn't help but love how the mystery brought them to Wyoming. This is the first book I've read by Elizabeth Goddard, and it won't be the last, I'm definitely won over as a new fan and can't wait for the rest of the series. Highly recommend this suspenseful adventure, with a compelling storyline and fantastic heroes!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising." -
When it comes to cold-cases, they don’t come much more emotionally charged than tracking down someone who was abducted as a newborn twenty-one years ago. Especially when the bereaved mother has leukemia and possibly only a few months left to live. It’s the kind of situation that tugs at the heart strings, even when you’re mourning the recent loss of your own grandfather and not at all sure you have the ability to fill his shoes. Add in the reappearance of an ex-boyfriend and the stage is set for an emotionally gripping read.
Except…
…I never really got further than an intellectual interest in the outcome of this story. Despite a gripping opening prologue and some early danger for Willow, the first part of the story was frequently hijacked by Willow’s and Austin’s internal monologues about their feelings for each other, their personal baggage, and the impossibility of a future relationship. I find that kind of romantic tension flat at the best of times, but in this case it became repetitive as well. And when it came to Austin’s past, refusing to talk about it seemed to be more of an issue than the circumstances themselves, if you know what I mean. When he finally did talk about it, I found it anti-climactic.
The action really picked up in the second half of the book, so readers who like a lot of suspense and surprises may still find this fits the bill. However, it became too convoluted for me. There’s a fine line to walk between foreshadowing and keeping the reader guessing in a suspense novel, and this story blurred that line by foreshadowing one thing and then revealing something totally different. Some readers may enjoy that, but I don’t. And when all was said and done, I wasn’t convinced that the motivation was equal to the crime and the effort to cover its tracks.
Unfortunately, this one was more miss than hit for me, but other readers who enjoy a second-chance romance and suspense that keeps them guessing may find it more to their taste.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion. -
3.5 Stars
NEVER LET GO is the start of a new romantic suspense series that offers plenty of romance and suspenseful action. There is a strong inspirational element woven through the story as well as plenty of mysteries and friendships. An entertaining read.
What I liked about the story:
- I really liked these characters! Willow and Austin are definitely leading characters readers can cheer on and connect with. They both have weaknesses and strengths, but I like how they were single-minded in finding the truth and trying to protect those who were in danger.
- The inspirational element was woven through the entire story and felt genuine to these characters.
- There were plenty of twists and suspense.
- The romance was super sweet.
- I liked that this story focused on a forensic genealogist, which is something I haven't seen before in literature and seems prevalent for today with all the DNA texts and genealogy lines that people search for.
What I didn't like about the story:
- I would have liked the romance to not be so immediate. The two main characters had all this backstory, but as a reader, I was never involved in that story. It's alluded too, but it didn't quite feel genuine and I just didn't feel the chemistry between these two. There were also lots of moments where the characters were thinking about each other and about their emotions when it felt weird that it would be the first thing on their minds as they were in the middle of these crazy situations. The romance aspect just felt heavy to me and overdone.
- Quite a few of the suspenseful elements didn't work for me. I felt like the bad guys had it much too easy and the good guys who were properly trained allowed things to happen that shouldn't have - at least not in the way they did. It just rubbed me wrong.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an overall enjoyable story. I would have liked more development in some areas, but other aspects of the story I did enjoy.
Content: Some violence, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through JustReadTours, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way. -
A book full of twists and turns. And a really, really great prologue that hooked me in.
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When I finished this book my response was: "Thank goodness it was over."
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Sometimes I am just in the mood for an exciting, suspense filled book. This book started out a bit slowly for me even though there were plenty of things happening. BUT. It had an excellent build up of tension both in the story line and between Willow and Austin. I could feel everything growing, expanding and becoming more intense as the book progressed. I love when that happens. I was constantly trying to figure out where things were going and how everything could possibly resolve.
Genealogy is so big right now- knowing where you come from and who you "belong" to. This book uses that platform to serve up a really cool story. I actually liked the story best when I started understanding Austin's history and backstory instead of being teased with it constantly. It was probably the shift emotionally I was needing to connect with the characters and the story and what helped amp up that intensity.
The last third of the book is full on and very exciting! I liked how everything came together and included all the players at once. It felt very dramatic.
I do believe this is the first book I have read by this author but hopefully it will not be my last!
Content: violence, peril, death. Christian elements (praying, talk of God).
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own. -
'Protection poured off him as if he wore armor and held up a shield to defend her.'
When Willow Anderson's forensic genealogist grandfather, whom she works with, dies in an accident, she decides to continue the case he was working on at the time of his death. Twenty one years ago, a baby girl was stolen from the hospital and her mother has been looking for her all this time. The mother is now dying of leukemia and desperately wants to find her daughter before time runs out.
Austin McKade, who had a not so nice break up with Willow several years earlier, was called in by her grandfather to work the case and she was not informed about that. When an attempt is made on Willow's life, Austin decides to step back in and help with the case. Austin will just have to face the mistakes of his past if he's to try to keep Willow alive and help her solve this case.
Goddard starts off strong here and the action keeps up at a steady pace throughout, with added layers thrown in to keep readers guessing. And guess they do. I was completely surprised at the ending. This one is fast paced and well done. The tension continues to mount during the reading and it's hard to put the book down. Recommended.
*My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions stated here are my own. -
Full review on FaithfullyBookish.com
Willow and Austin’s complex relationship made my heart accelerate and sent my matchmaking hopes into overdrive! Willow’s story is heartbreaking yet the fact that she simply keeps putting one foot in front of the other (despite the fog of her often overwhelming grief) is truly inspiring. Willow is obviously intelligent and I admire her quick and analytical thinking.
Austin is a tough guy hero with baggage, regrets, and a vulnerable core (which makes him and frankly most men super uncomfortable and usually cranky). His protective instincts are locked into hyperdrive from beginning to end and who can resist that level of intense sustained focus?! Woo, that man is swoony!
You can bet your tree branches I’ll be checking out Elizabeth Goddard’s backlist while I eagerly anticipate the next installment of the Uncommon Justice series! Consider me wowed! I highly recommend this title for readers who enjoy action-packed romantic suspense, this story delivers!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own. -
In her first foray from the shorter, category fiction, Elizabeth Goddard gives readers a book with enough twists and turns to rival the Wyoming mountain roads.
From the prologue to the almost immediate danger Willow finds herself in, I was caught up in this story. What really happened to Willow’s grandfather? Between Austin and Willow? To the baby? So many unanswered questions!
Admittedly, there was more introspection—especially on Austin’s part—than I usually like in my romantic suspense leads. Seriously, there came a pint where I was like, “Suck it up and tell her already.” However, it does give readers insight into the dynamic between Austin and Willow.
I have always appreciated the fact that Goddard pays attention for some lesser featured law enforcement. Never Let Go is no exception with a forensic genealogist and a former member of a child abduction response team. Lots of suspects, intense action, and well-developed secondary characters (fingers crossed that Charlie gets some cameos in the upcoming books in the series!) point to success for this series.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. -
Never Let Go ( Uncommon Justice #1 )
By: Elizabeth Goddard
Never Let Go is book one in a brand new series Uncommon Justice by Elizabeth Goddard. I was drawn in right at the start and did not want to put it down. I was not disappointed. There was several times I caught myself holding my breath. Ms. Goddard has another top winner. Love the story and the characters, both was well written and realistic. Never Let Go is a fast paced page turner that will have you trying to read faster to see what is going to happen next. There is action , danger , suspense , and romance throughout the story. So hold on tight and get ready for the ride of your life as you are drawn into Never let go.The author keeps you guessing till the end. WOW what a story. Cant wait for book two.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own. -
I enjoyed this book very much! The prologue hooked me, but the story itself carried me to the end. By a quarter of the way, I had already formed a SHIP with the two main characters.
I was impressed that the author opened the book with grief. Honestly, I feel grief can be one of the hardest things to write because the emotions can be crippling, depressing, or... motivating. I think Elizabeth managed a bit of all three with a ton of the latter.
I really liked Willow, and related to her in many ways. Her fears of being left, her determination for justice, and, eventually, quiet understanding of Austin as he began to deal with his past. I don't know. I just got her. Which was nice.
I also loved the pace of this book. It did get to be a bit much with the two MC's longing for the other but knowing they didn't have a life together. When in reality, the only thing standing between them wasn't something that couldn't be fixed. But otherwise, I loved all the action, possible death at every turn, questions of who's good and who was bad.
The plot twists were awesome, but placed together so well. Nothing was written by chance or left half empty. I so admire this writer.
It was a wonderful book, and I fully plan on finishing this series! -
Lately, I have been on a bit of a mystery buzz, and in the past, I had gone off ECF type books as they just seemed to be the same story over and over again. I had never read any of this author's before, but it had captured my attention as featured the case of a baby who was abducted via hospital when it was a few hours old over twenty years ago. Katelyn Mason had just given birth only to have her baby stolen from her; she spent many years searching but eventually ended up as a cold case with the FBI. Given only a few months left to live now twenty-one years later, she wants to try again and went to the experts JT Anderson. He was about to take the case when he was killed in a biking accident. Now his granddaughter Willow has accepted the case, only to have her home burn down. It seems that someone out there doesn't want the baby to be found and is sabotaging it at every stop. What's worst though is that they are even willing to go to extremes and kill for the truth to remain hidden. Enter Austin who was a friend of JT's and a past romantic interest of Willow's. With his expertise and FBI knowledge in CARD which is the search and recuse for missing children, the pair set out to follow the clues which lead to Austin's hometown. Never Let Go was an action-packed book which features something for everyone from the genealogy research side which strongly appealed to me as it's something I am currently trying to do for my Dad and then the romantic suspense side of the original kidnappings and the abductions and dangerous situations that Austin and Willow are put into throughout the book.
