Member Reviews
Slow to start, this book ramped up the action quickly as I caught up with the character backstory and the members of the Saint Squad. This is my first adventure with this elite team of Navy Seals, so it might have taken me longer to get up to speed on everything that was going on that someone who has read this series before, but I did find that the beginning lingered a lot on the set up, though later it did pay off.
An action packed romance, with opposites who attracted as Gabe tries to prove himself beyond his troubled past. Gabe has come a long way since his past, and I liked his determination and that he didn't give up doing what was right for what was easy.
Overall, an entertaining and enjoyable read with great non-stop action after I got past the first bits. A wonderful action filled read with a redemptive theme.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Visiting a story involving the Saint Squad is like visiting family. I can't get enough of their stories and the way they intersect and connect.
Redemption is all about moving on from a traumatic past, receiving a second chance at life, finding hope and peace (not to mention love), and using one's history to help others. Gage was manipulated and brainwashed into participating in a terrible hostage situation. The outcome was (thankfully) a good one and now he's ready to move on and help others avoid tragedy. Skyler is a hotel tycoon's daughter, trying to make a name for herself and put distance between herself and her dramatic and chaotic family.
I love the way this author brings a healthy dose of suspense in with a highly engaging and entertaining tale and then sprinkles in the romantic tension. The mix is the perfect combination that leaves me on the edge of my seat, flipping pages as quickly as possible, while trying to savor the intensity and relationships.
I'm always down for a Saint Squad novel and this one didn't disappoint!
Content/TW: mild romance; mild+ moments of peril/danger (mass shootings, death, attempted assassination, etc--non-graphic)
Redemption
by Traci Hunter Abramson
Pub Date 20 Sep 2021
Covenant Communications
Christian | Mystery & Thrillers | Romance
A copy of Redemption has been provided to me by Covenant Communications and Netgalley for review:
The past five years have been a challenging time for Gage Stewart. Once an abused and troubled teenager, he has worked tirelessly to overcome the fateful day when he was manipulated into holding a group of teenagers hostage. With a new identity and a college degree in criminal psychology, he accepts an unlikely job teaching others what to do during a mass shooting.
As soon as Gage enters the hotel where his class is held, he is immediately drawn to Skyler Prescott, the daughter of the wealthy hotel owner. Gage and Skyler quickly discover that they share a common desire for normalcy, and their easy friendship soon develops into something more. However, after a night out ends in horror when a gunman opens fire in the packed club, they discover an alarming discovery that threatens more than just their relationship. It appears that this attack was little more than a publicity stunt designed to draw attention to the real target: Senator James Whitmore, a presidential candidate. In order to avoid becoming someone's scapegoat, Gage must now work closely with the very men who ended his own life of crime before it began-the Saint Squad.
I give Redemption five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
The story was absolutely intriguing and thrilling from beginning to end. I loved reading about the different characters from previous Saints Squad books. If you have not read any other books in this series I highly recommend them, but they can all be read as standalone stories.
I truly could not believe the change in Gage and how he was able to redeem himself and turn his life around. I liked getting to know the other main character Skyler and how she helped the Academy and Saint Squad in various ways. I liked seeing her and Gage’s friendship blossom as they worked together. I also liked briefly reading about Senator James Whitmore who is also mentioned in previous books. I hope there will be more books in the series so we can read more about these characters and Senator Whitmore.
This story had lots of drama, clean romance and suspense. I truly can’t say enough good things about this series… Once you start reading you won’t want to stop. I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
This was a beautiful book. I enjoyed even the momentary mention of Ryan finding his happiness in Round Up. I am even more happy that this series seems to be closing out the individual books with a well rounded story.
Thriller, Suspense; Romance, sweet, contemporary
T.H.A. always writes the perfect suspense novels! The undercurrents and secrets of the criminals in the backstory and brought to the present made for the perfect romantic suspense read. Gage's past and his work in the present made for an interesting segue into the set up of this novel. With a full cast of compelling characters and supporting characters, this is the perfect combination of suspense, and romance. If you are a fan of the series, seeing the other members of the Saint Squad and other characters from other novels is also a plus, but the novel can be read as a stand-alone read. More of a 4.5 for me as a reader, but rounded up!
Abramson knows how to pace the novel so the action and intrigue unfold perfectly to keep you on the edge of your seat, while enjoying the other small moments that make up the rest of the novel. Can't wait for her next novel!
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. My opinions are my own.
I loved this book! I found it intriguing to bring back a minor character from a previous book near the beginning of this series and focus on how his experiences had changed him. Redemption is possible, but it requires a lot of work and the willingness of others to allow the change to happen.
There are few authors whose books I will buy without first checking into the storyline. Traci Hunter Abramson is an exception. If I see her name on a book, I buy it!
Intrigue. Suspense. Characters with depth. Heartache and clean romance. The books are enjoyed by both my husband and I in a blending of our favored genres.
Great read.
Such a fantastic story. The title is very fitting and the characters are some of my favorites. Another story that pulled me in from the first chapter. Five solid stars for Ms Abramson!
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review 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.
Another great story by Traci Abramson. Gage was abused and manipulated horribly to plan some really bad things involving a school shooting, and we see that story in Lockdown in a previous Saint Squad book. This book does not need to be read in order to read Redemption, but it does help you understand some of the things he's going through and how the squad reacts to him.
Great suspense, some romance, definitely some humor and light hearted fun alongside the danger and continuation of the storyline with Senator Whitmore and terrorists and hidden factions in government trying to take them all down.
There's a race against time, with Skyler and Gage working together with the Saint Squad and worth reading, probably more than once.
Clean, suspenseful, nothing I'd balk at handing to my teens to read (or my mother) and highly recommended. You can't go wrong with anything by Traci Hunter Abramson, but I especially love her suspense books!
I really appreciated the way Abramson brought back a pivotal character from the second Saint Squad book—Lockdown. And the way in which she brought him back was an excellent way to show that the members of the Saint Squad are not all, well, saints. They have some serious apprehension about Gage, and it takes them a while to get over their grudges. I applaud this! The title of the book is well-chosen, because it is about Gage’s chance to find redemption from his past, in the eyes of the Saint Squad, and in his own mind.
Skyler is the only functional member of her ultra-wealthy family, and the fact that Gage (who has no clue who she “really” is) treats her like just another person is appealing to her. Of course, this would not be a romantic thriller if there were not misunderstandings and obstacles in their paths—including Gage’s past.
This one is not about any of the squad members finding love, but the squad is definitely part of the story.
There is frequent mention of a recent attempt on Senator Whitmore’s life. This incident was part of Guardians #5, In Harm’s Way. You don’t have to have read that book, but it helps.
Possible objectionable material:
This series is about Navy SEALs and their missions. People get shot. People die. Also: kissing. Reference to faith, and particularly The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. If you don’t like religion in your thrillers, pass this by. Oh, and kissing.
Who might like this book:
Fans of romance, suspense, or both. People who like a good redemption story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for the eARC, which was provided in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
This book also reviewed at https://biblioquacious.blogspot.com/2021/12/a-dozen-by-traci-hunter-abramson.html
I always enjoy books by this author and this is no exception. Gage is a young man with a troubled past. Riley hires him for her team. Gage has tried to correct his life, but some people won't let him. This is a great story, there is intrigue, action, romance, and redemption. The story is easy to read and grabbed my attention very quickly. I love the premise of the Saint Squad and the mysteries are always captivating.
I am convinced Traci Abramson has magical powers. Magical powers that consist of amazing writing skills, the ability to keep you reading a book until you finish that day/night, and she always leaves you wanting more. Redemption is an action-packed thriller from start to finish. Just when you think a big climax ends and you will get a break in the action, another starts immediately and leaves your heart pounding. I don't think I will ever get tired of reading The Saint Squad, or Guardian books for that matter. While you are turning pages quickly with all the amazing action, there's a sweet, budding romance blooming. Gage and Skyler both have a past and I enjoyed getting to know them and watch them overcome and triumph. All the enduring characters you love from this series are here and better than ever!
Redemption is a great read. Very enjoyable book
Traci Hunter Abramson has done it again. Redemption is captivating with a realistic story that pulls you into the story, The reminder that people can change is brought out in a way that makes you want to reconsider any judgements of another’s past. Captivating as always. A great read
Phenomenal!! In this latest installment, the Saint Squad has more than just the challenge of protecting a presidential nominee on their plate; they must learn to forgive an individual who was once their enemy. And some are having an easier time than others.
Gage wants nothing more than to put his difficult past behind him and forget the person he used to be. But when someone offers him a job to take the person he used to be and use it to help keep others out of harms way, he must decide if he can revisit his past and use it to his advantage, without letting it consume him. And will the Saint Squad even LET him help after what happened that last time their paths crossed? As if that wasn't hard enough, Gage struggles with revealing who he was, or keeping his past a secret, to the woman he's fallen for. Will she love him in spite of his attempts to change?
I found myself cheering for Gage as he fought to overcome the battles of his past as well as his present, so that he could have the future that would bring him...Redemption.
Such a powerful story of forgiveness and redeeming oneself!
I was so excited when I heard there was going to be another Saint Squad book coming out. This one is about a character we met in Lockdown. You don't have to read Lockdown before reading Redemption but if you do you'll understand the Saint Squad's reactions to Gage.
This book couldn't have a more perfect title. Redemption is what Gage is looking for. He wants everyone to see him as Gage and not the troubled, brainwashed teenager named Eric he was 5 years ago. He worked hard to make changes to his life and move forward. He's doing his best to leave that painful part of his life behind, but wonders if that's possible when his past keeps popping up to remind people of who he was.
I was surprised how long it took Tristan to accept that Gage had truly changed. I was not happy with one of my favorite Saint Squad members. Thank goodness his wife, Riley, helped him see the light so to speak.
I liked that the readers know who the bad guys are while the book characters are trying to figure it out. These are the books that have me talking to the characters: "Don't go there!", "You don't want to do that!" and have me on the edge of my seat from the suspense wondering if the good guys will put the pieces all together before it's too late. I love that we get to see all the characters we love from the Saint Squad books, their spouses, the Whitmores etc. I loved all the suspense, especially at the end!!
I really like the character of Skyler Prescott, and thought she and Gage made a great couple. I liked that Skyler was so different from her siblings--she didn't act like the daughter of a billionaire hotel mogul. She went to college and worked at one of her father's hotels like a "regular" person.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in my review are my own.
This book is about second chances and redemption, but the main characters are Gage and Skylar. Gage has worked hard to transform himself into a new successful identity. Skylar has tried to keep her family connections to herself and works hard to be successful in life. Gage is recruited to work for a company who tries to prepare law enforcement, etc. for mass shootings. They form a friendship and enjoy spending time together. Then, the unthinkable happens in that they are present during an active shooting. They survive and then try to figure out what happened and how they can catch those responsible. This is an intriguing story with a lot more occurring besides just this story. I highly recommend this book and know you will not be disappointed!
***I was given a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review. This is my honest opinion. Even though I received this copy free, I have purchased her books before.
Yessssss! Finally! I have a new book in the Saint Squad series to read! Redemption is HERE! I might be a little bit excited. This is my favorite type of book by this author- this romantic military/government suspense. She writes all kinds of books really well, but this is my favorite genre.
This book had me hooked from the very beginning with Gage and Skyler. There is an excellent build of character connections, emotion and plot that leads to such an explosive ending. It was so exciting! The "bad guys" are obvious to the reader from the beginning but not to the characters so there was always that extra tension of knowing something they didn't know and hoping they would figure it out. Gage's arch was particularly satisfying and I was so invested in his growth and success. I'm like a Gage cheerleader- "come on, Gage! Don't give up! You can do it! Believe in yourself! You've got this! You are capable, smart and worthy of good things!" See? Cheerleader.
The Saint Squad novels build on each other with the same characters showing up in all the books and some cross over of plot lines. I don't think you have to read the previous (10!!) books before reading this one but you might be more satisfied if you do. These characters become like family after so many books and some of the inside jokes might be missed.
I really love the cover on this book. The actual title print is awesome and I love the graphics as well. It's a great representation of what this book is about.
This whole book just made me happy. I'm ready for more.
Content: peril, violence, death, mass shootings, kissing, some Christian elements (going to church, praying).
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
- heavy topic
- just dives right in
- I like Gage.
- I would like everyone to stop calling him Eric.
- this evil plot is truly devilish
- I'm experiencing anxiety. Sometimes it's hard to know when the characters don't 😬 but also, it's the sign of investment. So, bittersweet?
- there's a lot going on here
- guys. GAGE. I'm stressed out. I love him like a little brother and I want him to be happy
- oh goodness. I'm stressed out again. Still? Whatever.
- I'm torn between wanting the conflict and secrets to come out so we can move past it and hoping they get buried in a little box, never to be mentioned or discovered. Clearly I'm great at coping.
- a little communication could go a long way
- "Sergei gasped for breath. He wasn’t used to being on this side of a sniper rifle, and he was quite certain he didn’t like it." Okay, this is funny.
- this is intense. Everything is both falling apart and being tied up at the same time and I don't understand how she does it!
- Normally I get a little irked with this many perspectives but I like this. It's well done.
- Oh gosh, the plan at the end 👌👌
- the flash drive. That's adorable
- Cute cute ending
Favorite Quote:
The Navy SEALs might be the good guys, but he doubted they would ever consider him to be anything other than a criminal.
Have you ever found an author that just writes amazing story after amazing story? That is Traci Hunter Abramson. Whatever she writes, I am reading it. No questions asked, no reading the blurb is necessary. She is that good. Redemption is the 11th book in the Saint Squad series but can be read as a stand alone. Redemption did not disappoint and grabbed me by the collar and pulled me right inside of Gage’s world. I loved the mix of old and new with The Saint Squad having a presence in the story but it wasn’t entirely their story. Abramson nicely tied the old characters in with the new ones. Senator Whitmore made an appearance and action always follows him. Abramson takes suspense and melds it with the perfect amount of romance, and I could not stop reading it. The emotional journey Gage takes is thought provoking and moving. Another grand slam for Abramson, I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next. I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.