I am a fan of these three authors so I was giddy with anticipation when I got this book. I love books with both romance and suspense which is what attracts me to these authors and their books over and over.

Of the three books, I would have to say that Dani Pettrey's was my favorite with Lynette Eason's a close second. Both of these books had fantastic pacing and had my heart beating a little faster than normal. I loved how they felt complete and full despite being a little bit shorter than usual novels. I wasn't a fan of this story by Dee Henderson. I felt like it was slow and there was so much missing. The suspense was not there at all. I'm not sure what happened there because I usually really love Dee Henderson's books. I hope there will be more collections like this one!

Content: Some Christian elements, violence (death), kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book at my request from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

I’m afraid I just couldn’t get into the first novella. I think not having read the books connected to it was a disadvantage. I didn’t know the characters, and never really became invested in them. I think it was definitely a unique idea, and a good premise, but for me, there was just too much information about the whole process of investigating, pardons, and recovering after being falsely accused.
Dani Pettrey’s novella was thrilling. So much so that I couldn’t read it at night. Too creepy. I loved the idea of being cut off from help, and couldn’t help shuddering as the tale progressed. Callen is sweet and protective, and the perfect match for Tenni. And the twist at the end—so good! Despite stealing some of my sleep, I really liked Deadly Isle.
I’m not very familiar with Lynette Eason’s novels, but I’m about to change that! I really enjoyed that Ruthie’s job was a bit different than many of the suspense novel heroines out there. Her family were a super fun addition to the story, which definitely made me want to find out more about those characters.
Though I knew the theme of betrayal was going to weave throughout all of these novellas, it didn’t make it easy to guess who-dun-it! If you’re looking to lose some sleep, discover maybe a new-to-you suspense author, or be transported on a heart-stopping adventure, The Cost of Betrayal would be a great start.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

4 stars

“Three novellas in one book by three of the best authors of Christian romantic suspense Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey and Lynnette Eason.”
These three short books were amazing! Each one of these authors drew me in from the very first sentence and held my attention throughout the entire story. I am usually not a fan of short stories, but this book changed my mind! I have long been a fan of Dee Henderson but how have I never read Dani Pettrey or Lynette Eason before? I sure will be adding both of them to my TBR list! Henderson wrote the first story in the collection entitled “Betrayed”, Dani Pettrey authored Deadly Isle and Lynette Eason concludes the book with Code of Ethics.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good romantic suspense book. An added bonus, if you have never read one of these authors, it is a sure fire way to discover a new author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own. #TheCostOfBetrayal #NetGalley #BethanyHouse

I rarely enjoy novellas. They are always too short. The romance is always rushed. The stories are never as complete as I'd like. But these three authors are so amazing that they make even me love a novella.

I was completely blown away by these stories. These are three of my favorite authors, so that didn't surprise me. But I'm always impressed with what they can do in so few pages. I really loved all three storylines and the overarching theme of betrayal. All three wrote such compelling stories of deep hurt and all three seamlessly wove Christ into their words. I was also so impressed by the suspense and mystery in the stories. I love being kept on my toes.

If you haven't read books by any of these authors this is a perfect opportunity to check out their work. These are some of the best novellas I've read - and certainly the best I've read from these authors.

I received a free copy of this book electronically through the publisher and NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Three great authors, three great stories!

Each story provided well written stories with excellent characters and an engaging stories.

Dee Henderson brought back Ann and Paul Falcon, so you know it is good. Likewise, Lynette Eason, takes readers to the St. John family focusing on Dr. Ruthie St. John. Dani Pettrey takes us to the Maryland island, Talbot for an excellent mystery story.

One of the stories did feel a little “unfinished” to me. I would have liked to have seen justice truly served. However, life isn’t always like that so fiction probably shouldn’t be that way either.

If you enjoy any of these authors you’ll enjoy these stories. If you haven’t read any of all of them, this is a great introduction to their talents.

I really enjoy Dee Henderson with her stories of murder and mystery the faith it takes to prove innocence. The other authors in this book were new to me but I found myself enjoying them and will look forward to reading more of them as time goes on.

In Dee Henderson's tale of betrayal I was pleased to revisit with Ann and Paul Falcon who are two of my favorite characters as they stumble on a cold case and are able to help a young woman wrongly accused of murder. As the unbelievable story plays out it reinforces how low some people will stoop for money and how much faith has a strong hand in bringing justice to the innocent.


Dani Pettrey will keep you on the edge of your seat as the body count mounts and readers get a glimpse into a killer's mind and yet you are kept guessing on whodunit.


Lynette Eason introduces us to an honorable police officer who stands for truth and justice and puts his life on the line along with a talented surgeon who does all she can to save him.


Three excellent tales which will raise the hair on your arms as you read.

A life in danger is always a bad thing but when 3 couples can find their way through to a happy ending it's a great way to end a story. Dee Henderson, Dani Pettry, and Lynette Eason each write a story full of danger, intrigue and betrayal in several different forms. They show that you can find or reconnect with the love of you life through adversity and forgiveness. When your life is in danger you need help and a connection to God to get through.

Betrayal by Dee Henderson
Ann and Paul Falcon are bargin hunting at alarge auction. Ann's eye is caught by a box of dresser drawer items. She wins the bidding and when she get the box home and is going through it she finds a jewlery box and a pink mongramed pocket knife. She's curious who the box belongs to so using her skills from her former job as an FBI agent Ann starts digging. She brings her husband into the mystery by asking his help, since he heads up the Chicago FBI office. As they dig and find out that there is a murder attached to the box and knife it becomes apparent to them that the person in prison for the murder is wrongly accused. They don't have enough evidence to get the verdict overturned but enough to get her a pardon from the govenor. With the pardon in hand they head to the prison and walk out with Janelle, Janelle is shocked and overjoyed to be set free after spending almost 7 years in prison. Ann flies her to a friend Greg, who helps traumatized people recover and keep her safe from the person Ann believes committed the murder. As Janelle adjusts to her new life and circumstances, it's revealed to her who the suspect is and why but she doesn't believe it. Ann & Janelle can't come to an agreement about the evidence,about the best friend, who happens to be her former boyfriend's sister. They decide to see what the suspect has to say so they set a meeting between Janelle and her friend. When that doesn't reveal any new information only the fact that she lied to Janelle. They try again and Janelle pushes harder and its revealed there is a video tape. Ann tracks it down but there is evidence that could be interrpted either for or against Janelle. They decide to disagree but to keep a watch on the friend. Janelle and Greg, her therapist, keep working on Janelle's recovery and make great progress. Janelle has made enough progress that she's moved off of the therapy grounds and into her own apartment and has been selling baked goods at a bakery Greg has a slient partnership in. He's just returned from a trip on business and brings lunch. He knows Janelle had some men interested in dating her but she's still grieving her dead boyfriend. He doesn't date clients so he's going to wait until the next year to ask Janelle out.He also gives her the news that the old best friend is having trouble with her partnership with her boyfriend and their business. Janelle's life is in a great place.

Deadly Isle by Dani Pettry
Tennyson (Teni) Kent and her cousin are taking a last swim before the end of the season and to take her mind off her broken engagement.When she arrives at the bouy her cousin is no where around. She starts searching and her former boyfriend comes to her aide. They find her cousin's body and Teni is devestated because she was like a sister, and she doesn't have much family left. Callen made the biggest mistake of his life 10 years ago by letting Teni go after he didn't fight to keep her in his life. He vows to win her back again. She's vowed to never trust a man again epecially Callen. He calls to check on her and the call is cut off. Teni thinks she's hearing something and when she looks outside she sees a man running away from her house. She follows and the house that's been in the family for generations blows up. Teni awakes to the sound of Callen's voice. They go to check on the body and find it gone. Teni stays with Callen and they work their way back to each to other. Teni turns back to God for help and finds peace. They come up with a suspect and during the nor'easter that is blowing in go to talk to him. She doesn't think it could be her former fiance' or her other cousin who's next in line. Callen & Teni realize that she's the likely target and the cousin was killed by mistake. Evidence comes to light that sends them in a new direction that Teni doesn't want to believe. They confront a suspect and arrest him and he turns evidence against his partner. Teni and Callen realize they love each other and she forgives him and there is a proposal and acceptance and a realization that they never stopped loving each other.

Code of Ethics by Lynette Eason
Ruthie St. John is a trauma surgeon and her patient is a cop. He keeps tryng to tell her about some one in trouble. After a successful surgery he's recovering but wants to leave because he isn't safe. Issac can't even stand on his own. Ruthie is getting ready to leave on vacation and makes one last visit to her new patient. She finds a man giving him a shot and knows that its not right and tries to stop him only he gets away. She believes Issac when he explains his situation, and she decides to help him. Ruthie smuggles him out of the hospital. It's revealed that her mother is the chief of police. With the help of her family, she keeps Issac safe. As they work together it find the evidence he needs to proove his case. they run into danger and find the man they're looking for dead. They must also get the man with evidence sister's kids back after being kidnapped. If he has to Issac will give himself up to get the kids back. They must find the evidence, which Ruthie does. Issac is impressed by her and how she won't let him do things himself. They're given directions to the hideout and meet with the bad cops. Ruthie and the sister take the kids to safety. She doesn't stay in the car like she's supposed to with the evidence. Ruthie realizes too late that there is another bad guy among them. She gets away when her brothers show up with back up. The only problem is that Issac's suspect got away and he's now got Ruthie hostage. She gives Issac a signal and the man is shot. She immediately goes into doctor mode to try and save him. She must fix Issac's shoulder wound and as she does he asks her out. Four months later at dinner with her family a declaration of love is made and a proposal accepted. Ruthie realizes her life is the happiest its ever been.

These 3 authors have written 3 stories of love of God and between a man and woman with emotion, suspense, and love. How to overcome with His help the betrayal of someone you love or should have your back when needed. And that a stranger can help you when you need it most. I hope that you will enjoy these stories as much as I did. I can't wait for more from Dee Henderson, Dani Pettry and Lynette Eason.

The Cost of Betrayal consists of three novellas focused on betrayal. The first of which is Betrayed by Dee Henderson. Ann Falcon, a retired police investigator, unearthed a murder weapon in a box of miscellaneous dresser drawer items she had purchased at an auction. Looking into the case convinced her that an innocent woman was behind bars. Once she had convinced her husband, who ran the Chicago FBI office, of this they pursued the release of the wrongly convicted woman and justice for the victim. While this story is set in America rather than Europe, fans of Julianna Deering's Drew Farthering series will likely enjoy this story. It had a fresh plot and was well written. While I would like to comment on the ending, I will avoid the spoiler.

The second novella is Deadly Isle by Dani Pettrey. Tennyson Kent, better known as Teni, owened Talbot Island which had been passed down in her family through generations. Members of the community leased their property from her. While Teni had the best interests of all the residents at heart, it was impossible to please everyone. The stress this caused, however, was currently second to the stress in her personal life as her engagement was unexpectedly broken. That coupled with the presence of Callen, her former boyfriend, who had betrayed her and fractured her heart, was just the background noise to the clamor inside her head wanting to know who was responsible for her cousin's death and the attacks on her own life. Even with the restrictions placed on her by a novella's length, Pettrey fleshed out a wonderful mystery with characters one wants to root for, and others one wants to see taken down.

The final novella is Code of Ethics by Lynette Eason. It was great to be back with the St. John family, this time focusing on the only person in the family with a non-law related career. Fortunately, Ruthie has picked up a lot from her mother and siblings over the years, and could therefore handle herself in dangerous situations. After surgically removing a bullet from a police detective, Ruthie interrupts someone in his room with murderous intentions. Detective Isaac Martinez is no longer sure who he can trust as he investigates corruption within the police department. Knowing his life is in danger, Ruthie chooses to spirit him away from the hospital thus becoming embroiled in his case. As always Lynette Eason hits the mark.

The Cost of Betrayal with its three novellas based upon that theme is a good read. All three award winning authors live up to their reputations. I recommend this book to their fans and to those mystery fans who have yet to discover these talented writers. I thank NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

Dee Henderson is an author to have on your must read list. I always tell people her books are so intentional. She creates characters you fall in love with and that you can relate to. I was thrilled that this was a book of Ann and Paul Falcon. Jannelle had been incarcerated for a crime she did not commit. Ann is able to get her out. Dee delivered a fascinating look into the world of someone who gets out of prison and how they adjust. I think Greg could have his own series. What he did for a living was truly fascinating.

Dani Pettrey created a terrifying opening when Teni and her cousin, Julia are swimming and someone plans to kill one of them. This is just the beginning of violence against Teni. Her childhood sweetheart helps her try to find out who killed her cousin and who is trying to kill her.

Lynette Eason is a phenomenal romantic suspense author. She has the perfect balance of romance and suspense. The theme of betrayal continues. One of the police officers may be taking money and drugs and is under suspicion by one of his peers. It was so fun to see Rachel who is the only sibling not in law enforcement to be put into these situations and see how she handles them. The developing relationship between the two was adorable. He wouldn’t dress in front of her because she was a pretty lady. Even though she was his surgeon.

Sexual content - 1 kissing
violence - 2 kidnapping, murder, etc, nothing disturbing
language - 0
drugs/alcohol - 0

In Dee Henderson's novella "Betrayed," Janelle Roberts is freed--thanks to people she doesn't know--after serving six years of a twenty-year sentence for a murder she did not commit. But a murderer is still at large, and Janelle needs to be somewhere safe with someone she can trust. She may not survive another betrayal.

In Dani Pettrey's "Deadly Isle," Tennyson Kent is trapped on the isolated island of her childhood by a storm surge, and she is shocked when the typically idyllic community turns into the hunting grounds of a murderer. Cut off from any help from the mainland, will she and first love Callen Frost be able to identify and stop a killer bent on betrayal before they become the next victims?

In Lynette Eason's "Code of Ethics," trauma surgeon Ruthie St. John saves the life of Detective Isaac Martinez. After a betrayal leads to him getting shot and then attacked while in recovery, Isaac is now a key witness determined to testify. But someone is intent on silencing him--and those around him--forever. Together, Ruthie and Isaac go on the run, desperate to escape the killers hunting him.

Betrayed was a procedural book which told the story of how Janelle was sent to prison and how she was freed and her life after imprisonment. There was no edge of your seat suspense. Good, but not very suspenseful.

Deadly Isle was very good. Suspense and reconnecting with and old love is throughout the entire story. I really enjoyed reading it.

Code of Ethics was the most suspenseful of all three books. Ruthie and Isaac are on the run to save their lives. The killers don't seem to realize they are messing with the St. John family when they mess with one of them. Very book.

All three books were good and I would recommend all of them.

I was give a copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

Betrayed by Dee Henderson

I enjoyed the following the progress as Ann unraveled a cold case. With the help of her husband Paul they are able to correct a mistake that had been made. It made my heart happy to see them work together to correct this mistake and to do what they could to help Janelle deal with the consequences of this. However the ending left me frustrated and feeling cheated. There was no closure provided to the cold case. I did not like that I was left with questions and no answers to who the real killer was.


Deadly Isle by Dani Pettrey

This one included a ton of suspense from the beginning and the whole way through. Who is after Teni and will she be safe? I did not want to stop reading until I knew the villain was caught. I was taken by surprise by the reveal of the villain. On the character relationship side I really enjoyed following the second chance Callen was given, can he win her back? Getting to know their background story had me cheering for them to reunite.


Code of Ethics by Lynette Eason

Another story filled with suspense and action. Isaac comes into Ruthie’s OR with a shoulder wound. When Ruthie is checking up on him in recovery she catches someone trying to kill him. She is able to thwart the attack, but the would-be killer gets away. Isaac is determined to find the evidence needed to stop those after him, but is in no condition to do it on his own. Ruthie decides to help him. Danger seems to follow them wherever they go, can they find the evidence before the bad guys? I was on the edge of my seat while I followed along with the search for evidence. Ruthie was spunky and Isaac was determined, I enjoyed the bits of romance that were mixed in throughout.

This compilation of novellas by three masters of the craft of Christian fiction was a book that compels you to keep reading to the end. Each novella has its own tale of betrayal, the theme of the book. I enjoyed each of them and chose a favorite character in each. I really liked Ann Falcon in Dee Henderson’s story of a woman imprisoned for decades for a crime that she did not commit. Ann discovered the truth by accident and was determined to do something about it. This story is one that addresses the issue of justice and also forgiveness. In Dani Petttrey’s “Deadly Isle”, I really enjoyed the setting of an island that is cut off from others because of a big storm and a killer that is on that island wreaking havoc. The imagery in this novella was remarkable. Finally, in Lynette Eason’s “Code of Ethics”, a family of police officers and their sister who is a surgeon have to try to keep a police officer safe who has discovered corruption in the department. I really liked Ruthie, the doctor who was a force to be reckoned with. All three novellas have strong female characters that draw the reader into the story and seem to end too quickly because you are enjoying the story so much. Readers of romantic suspense will thoroughly enjoy this collection of novellas.

Wow! Each of these stories is amazing, yet so different from each other. I enjoyed them all equally and felt they complemented each other so well. The first story "Betrayal" from Dee Henderson is so fascinating, I loved seeing the process of a cold case break wide open at the hands of a couple of FBI agents who were in the right time at the right place. I thought it was interesting how it switched perspectives to show a broader view of the story. I appreciated that the conclusion was so realistic and didn't take the conventional approach that I expected.

"Deadly Isle" by Dani Pettrey was intense and had great romantic tension! The pace was swift yet the characters felt fully developed as they work to investigate and solve the mystery so tragically close to home. Teni and Callen have a history and the memories that surfaced while they helped each other during the raging storm brought a sense of belonging and relief.

"Code of Ethics" by Lynette Eason also had a fast pace and the sense of working against the clock. I liked that Ruthie was comfortable with law enforcement and their procedures because of her family, even though she is a doctor. There are twists and turns as she and Isaac dodge the killers while searching for the evidence that will prove his suspicions correct. I loved the attraction and bits of romance that were slipped in as Ruthie and Isaac got to know each other while also depending on each other for their lives.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

This is a novella from three popular romantic suspense authors. I love all three authors so I had to read this book even though I am not too fond of short stories. Each story was very well written and I wish each one had been a full length novel

This book was really fun quick read. Having multiple novellas’ in one book was a great break from the longer books I have been reading. There were even a few familiar characters.

I enjoyed seeing some familiar characters again, and get a little more of their stories. Each story is unique, yet they flow well to each other when you sit down to read these.

Overall, these were great stories, and I enjoyed each one of them.

A romantic suspense novella collection from three of the top authors in the genre with the theme of betrayal? How could I resist this one?

Betrayed by Dee Henderson

Much of this story is a running conversation between Ann and Paul Falcon as they hash out possibilities and theories of a murder. Two-thirds of the way through, Janelle Roberts—a woman who has spent the last six years in prison—gets a full pardon and makes her colorist appearance. I felt like this was more procedural (and very talkie instead of action) than suspense or romance. And while I appreciated Greg’s POV as Janelle settles into a new life, I missed getting into Janelle’s head at least once.

Deadly Isle by Dani Pettrey

This is Pettrey’s first stand-alone story is as captivating as her full series. As Tenny and Garen track down a killer and unravel motive in the midst of a storm pounding their island, the stakes are high, the action intense, and the romance engaging. Pettrey keeps you guessing at the villain until the very end.

Code of Ethics by Lynette Eason

While Ruthie St. John hasn’t followed the rest of her siblings into law enforcement, she has learned plenty from them and their mother (the chief of police). When Isaac Martinez is attacked after Ruthie operates in him, the two go on the run. Danger lurks around every corner as these two try to stay ahead of the people with enough connections to thwart their investigation. As with the other Blue Justice books, the St. John siblings band together until justice is served (and Ruthie gets her man).

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.

The publisher has brought together three accomplished writers to create a set of three romantic suspense filled novellas. Each story stands alone – there is no connection between them.

Dee Henderson’s story, “Betrayed”, shares the work of the Falcons – Ann, a retired FBI agent, and her husband, Paul. They have discovered a small box of leftover beauty products which also contains a knife, a murder weapon. The problem is that Janelle Roberts was convicted of the murder six years ago, but she probably is not the perpetrator. The Falcons need to find a way to get Janelle out of prison and discover the actual murderer.

Dani Pettrey’s story, “Deadly Isle”, has a young woman, whose engagement had recently been broken, finding that her cousin has been murdered and her own life is threatened. Finding the guilty party would mean risking her life yet again.

Lynette Eason presents a story, “Code of Ethics”, full of medical and police officers – who may or may not be able to be trusted.

Each could serve as a prequel for a series – though there is no indication that will be the case. I have previously read books by Dee Henderson and Dani Pettrey, their stories were suspenseful as those found in their books. Though I have never read a title by Lynette Eason, I expect the same is true for her books. These stories will make a good read during the cool Fall evenings facing readers over the next few months.
______________
This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.

A great choice for romantic suspense fans, The Cost of Betrayal truly is the perfect name for this collection. All of the stories deal with people who have been betrayed in some of the worst ways.

The first novella, Betrayal by Dee Henderson, moves at a much slower pace than the other two stories. I really enjoyed the build up as the main characters worked through new evidence to determine what really happened years earlier. I enjoyed the entire story, but ended up feeling like I was left hanging at the end. I personally needed more closure for the entire situation.

The second novella, Deadly Isle by Dani Pettrey, was absolutely fantastic. It was fast paced and full of danger. I loved that the two characters used to be an item and their love for each other had obviously never faded away. There were many twists and turns in this story, keeping me anxiously reading to find out who was behind this betrayal.

The last novella, Code of Ethics by Lynette Eason, was also really good. There was plenty of danger to go around as well as questions about who to trust. I enjoyed the way the author wrapped up this story, including the sweet romance that developed.

I definitely recommend this collection to fans of romantic suspense.

(4.5 stars)

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

The Cost of Betrayal is a trio of novellas by three of today's masters of suspense. While short each author wrote a complete and intriguing story that kept me totally engrossed. Although the settings varied, betrayal is evident throughout. So grab a mug of your favorite hot tea and a cozy blanket. Settle back for an awesome read!
I was given this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

I'm not always a huge fan of novella-length stories, but this collection is well done in general.

"Betrayed" by Dee Henderson is by far the weakest of the three stories and what made me average the rating as 3 stars. Henderson's overly wordy and analytical style of writing does not lend itself well to a novella. Every piece of evidence, feeling, possibility, action is examined from all sides, sometimes multiple times. This potentially would have been all right in this story had there actually been a conclusion or ending, which there is not. Crime is not solved in the end. Plus, the romance between the main characters is implied to be possible in the future, yet it doesn't happen during the course of the novella, nor should it since they are patient and therapist and I find it to be a grey area of ethics that it could even be considered appropriate after their therapy has ended. 2/5 stars
"Deadly Isle" by Dani Pettrey is fast-paced and intriguing. There are many possible villains and the romance and suspense balance is excellent. The relationship feels naturally developed and the mystery kept me guessing. 4/5 stars
"Code of Ethics" by Lynette Eason is another exciting thrill ride. From the first page to the last of this story there is action and a puzzle to solve--with an unpredictable conclusion that will fool even the most astute mystery readers. 4/5 stars

Both Henderson's and Eason's novellas contain characters from other book series, but they are easily read as stand alones and you won't miss anything.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.