Sunburst
Susan May Warren
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Former Navy SEAL Ranger Kingston travels to Nigeria as part of a rescue mission to save his brother Colt, who has been kidnapped by terrorists. He isn't expecting to find another familiar face among the hostages - a woman he's been unable to forget.

Noemi Sutton is on a mission to reunite a young girl and her family in Boko Haram territory when she and her group are taken hostage.

Ranger may be able to rescue the hostages from their captors, but he'll need Noemi's help to get out of Nigeria alive. Posing as a married couple, Ranger and Noemi seek help from her uncle, who insists upon giving them a traditional Nigerian wedding. When Noemi realizes why she was kidnapped, she's determined to keep her so-called husband and those around her safe by leaving them behind.

We enjoyed this installment of Susan May Warren's romantic suspense series: Sky King Ranch. She developed strong characters who had past experiences with loss and abandonment influencing their present perspectives on relationships. We were drawn to the male lead who exemplified strength and bravery you would expect in a Navy SEAL. One characteristic we would point out is that this story had more “romantic attraction and details” than you may typically find in a Christian fiction novel. Warren does encapsulate it within a presumed (legal) wedding ceremony in Nigeria, so it does have the context of occurring within marriage. In addition, this was the second story in a series, and while you knew there was a significant backstory missing (Sunrise), it didn’t affect the understanding of this novel. However, the book does not end with a full resolution but will conclude with Sundown, set to release November 1, 2022.

We received an advance copy from the publisher. This is our honest review.

Holy buckets! Susan May Warren is one of my automatic-read authors, so of course this book was at the top of my list. Her books are always fast-paced with just the right amount of tension. This one, man, the action and the steam! I loved learning about Nigerian wedding culture and also getting back to Alaska. Susie does such an awesome job blending characters from previous books (and series even) into the current book while setting up for the next in the series. Unlike many of her others, this one has a HUGE cliff-hanger at the end, so be prepared. This is the second book in the series and it will help to read book one before reading this one.

Thanks Netgalley for the ARC! All opinions are my own.

Wow, this story was a very full one. So much was going on, not confusing, but enough to keep you turning the pages. This is the second of the Sky King Ranch series and this one focuses on triplet brother Ranger, who is a Navy Seal. He and his brother Dodge go on a rescue mission in Nigeria to save their brother Colt who has been kidnapped by terrorists. What Ranger is not prepared for is to come face to face with the only woman he has ever loved and left to protect her, Noemi Sutton.

Noemi along with Colt and others has been kidnapped. That is where the book starts, and we get to go along as they narrowly escape with their lives. But why were they kidnapped and why is Noemi such a prime target for them? She is an aid worker, and she has no clue. All she knows is she and Ranger are thrown back together and this time in some serious life and death situations. And she is trying really hard not to have him break her heart again. But things get really complicated and the author introduces one of my favorite book tropes: a marriage of convenience.

However even though a lot of this story takes place in Africa, there is still things happening back at the ranch. Dodge and Echo have rescued a mysterious woman who is hiding her own secrets and as Colt comes home to recuperate, he seems bound and determined to find out what those are. Also, Ranger has a pretty big secret of his own.

This was a really fun and intense read. The whole series has been so far, and I am really looking forward to Colt's story next.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

Wow! Wow! Wow! I read some of Susan May Warren's books before I started reviewing and haven't had a chance to pick many of hers up after starting this review journey. You better believe I have been missing out! Now I'm going to go back through her backlist and add every single book I haven't read to my TBR!

This book starts out right from the first paragraph and doesn't let up until it's over. There is a dual timeline, PLUS a side story that had me riveted. Less than 24 hours and this book was done-cover to cover!

Susan did a great job of pacing. I loved the suspense elements she incorporated. I felt like I was journeying with these characters... and the side story (which will be the next book)--Oh my goodness, I cannot wait for it!

The Christian elements were perfect. Just enough to add something really special and offer these characters some much needed hope and guidance, but not so much that it was overpowering the entire story.

These characters have A LOT to overcome and I was here for their journey!

Highly, HIGHLY, recommend if romantic suspense is your genre or you're looking for a book to pick up and try from that genre! You can't go wrong with this one!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

There’s a reason why Kingston triplet Ranger is known as Danger Ranger, and it is solidified by his absolute devotion to his team and his career as a SEAL and a sniper. Danger Ranger Kingston does his duty, even on the occasion when his duty was to walk away from the only woman who had ever managed to open his heart to the what-ifs. When that duty involves slipping into the Nigerian wilderness to rescue hostages from the Boko Harem, Ranger knows he and his brother Dodge will be rescuing their triplet Colt, but he is surprised to find the hostages include the woman he never should have lost. Noemi Sutton is determined to escape and find help for her fellow hostages, but her loyalty to Blessing is a weapon their captors can wield effectively against her. When Ranger and Dodge slip into the camp and rescue them, she is unprepared to face a savior who had so deeply wounded her in the past. Getting split from the rescue team is just further proof that she is not good for him, but they have to work together to get away from the terrorists who pursue them and make their way to safety. If that means Noemi must keep up the pretense that the wounded warrior traveling with her and Blessing is her husband, then so be it. At least, until the moment they find themselves face to face with her uncle, a tribal king with resources to keep them safe and an opportunity for Noemi to know her mother’s family. The friction of the push and pull between desire and self defense between Ranger and Noemi creates a delicious heat that burns from their first encounter and doesn’t stop.

Sunburst is the second Sky King Ranch novel from author Susan May Warren. Warren is an excellent storyteller and it is particularly enjoyable to read her novels as familiar characters we already know and love help drive the story. For example, our Jones Inc. buddies from the Global Search and Rescue series are back again to facilitate the rescue of Colt, Noemi, and the others kidnapped with them by the Boko Harem. Another particularly enjoyable element is Warren’s novels, which is displayed in full glory in Sunburst, is her dedication to research of the places and cultures represented within. I read Sunburst with a search window open at all times as Ranger, Noemi and Blessing made their way across Nigeria and as Uncle Efe and Aunty Precious throw a traditional wedding to celebrate the marriage of their dear departed sister’s only child. Kola nuts and jollof rice, the path of the Forcados and Niger rivers, the locations of the towns named along their escape route all came to life between Warren’s rich storytelling and the searches. And don’t skip the dedication on this one; SMW fans will have a greater understanding of how precious this one is after reading the dedication.

Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me a copy to read and review. All opinions expressed here are my own and are completely genuine.

I always enjoy this author's books and I was excited to read the second book in the series.

Ranger Kingston is a SEAL and he is in it for life. However, he meets Noemi and his life is never quite the same again. Even though they have a heart connection, he knows nothing can happen between them as he is so committed to his career. However, things change when he finds himself in Nigeria, helping out his brother, and discovering that Noemi is in big trouble. He is in big trouble too, though, when he realises that she is still in his heart, even after 4 years with no contact between them.

How to extract Noemi from the situation she is in, guard his heart and make sure that the two of them survive another day? Sure, a traditional Nigerian wedding sounds like a plan!! I loved the description of this event, by the way. It sounds amazing :)

I always like reading about this family and their connection to each other, I have to admit, that is a big part of my liking Susie May Warren's work. It sounds like a family that I would love to be a part of, and living in Alaska as well.

4.5 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Revell.

Wow, the author really knows how to create an immersive experience with her writing. I felt like I was picked up and dropped right into Nigeria. Susan May Warren writes like she has gone through this wild ride personally, capturing the events and the emotions at such a rapid pace I could hardly keep up. I expected another story set in Alaska, and, while this thriller included that, it went way beyond in its international scope and the story of the Kingston triplets—even beyond what I felt comfortable with. So many twists and elements skillfully weave together to present fiction at its best. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #Sunburst #NetGalley

I really don't think Susan May Warren is capable of writing a book I wouldn't absolutely love, and Sunburst proves it once again! Heart-pounding suspense, breath-taking romance, swoony hero, and a deep faith: this story has it all.

Former Navy SEAL Ranger Kingston is on a dangerous mission to save his brother, Colt, from the hands of terrorists, but he has no idea that one of the hostages is the woman who stole--and shattered--his heart years before. Noemi Sutton was taken hostage while trying to return a young girl to her family, but this is one situation she won't be able to get out of alone. Ranger's team rescues her, but in the chaos that follows there's only one solution she can think of to save their lives. Pretending to be married doesn't seem like a big deal...until Noemi's Nigerian uncle-slash-prince insists on the traditional marriage ceremony with her Nigerian family. But when trouble finds them in the middle of their make-believe, leaving just might be the only way to save the life of the man she's loved for so long.

I absolutely loved both Ranger and Noemi. Their characters were solid and independent, while still having room to learn to lean on God and on each other. The character growth was spot-on, and the challenges they faced were realistic and easy to imagine. I enjoyed learning a bit about the Nigerian culture, and liked that that part was based on the author's daughter-in-law. This novel had me on the edge of my seat from the very first page and it was impossible to put down! I felt like I was right there with Ranger and Noemi, feeling the dust and sweat, and all the emotions.

Sunburst gets an easy 5/5 stars. I cannot wait to see what happens next in this series!

*I received a complimentary copy of Sunburst through the publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My positive review is not required.

Sunburst by Susan May Warren is a phenomenal novel with crazy suspense and vivid characters. I adored the way the author incorporated Nigeria culture into this novel, and I loved it even more knowing that she used her daughter in law as her source. I thought the book’s themes were Incredibly relevant and important. Ms Warren never settles for easy answers and this only leads to her authenticity and resonance with readers. I adored this book and can’t wait for more. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

This book was so good. I loved it and the characters. Overall very good! Thank you NetGalley for the ARC

I could not wait to get my hands on this book. Susan May Warren always keeps me up too late turning pages, and this book is no different. Sunburst is the second book in the Sky King Ranch series. In this story we follow Ranger as he is on a mission to save his brother from a terrorist group that kidnapped him. His brother Cole is far from helpless, and Ranger knows that the people they are up against aren’t going to give up easy. Little does he know that his brother isn’t the only person he knows who was kidnapped. Noemi was the first and only woman to get under Rangers skin. I loved watching the interactions between the two of them. Imagine running into someone who might have been the love of your life,but that you chose to walk away from. Their chemistry was undeniable. This story took me on a wild and unpredictable ride. I was biting my nails and then jumping for joy. Warren did it again, and I can’t wait to see what she does next. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Suspense. Warren knows how to make the perfect combo of romance, mystery, and suspense. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 3!

Sunburst
by Susan May Warren
Pub Date 07 Jun 2022
Revell
Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance



I am reviewing a copy of Sunburst through Revell and Netgalley:





Former Navy Seal and lifelong bachelor Ranger Kingston is called upon to take part in a rescue mission to save his brother Colt, who has been kidnapped by terrorists in Nigeria, he is shocked to find among the hostages a woman he knows and could never forget.



Noemi Sutton was trying to a young girl to her family in Boko Haram territory when she and the girl found themselves taken hostage, along with several others.




While Ranger Kingston may be able to get the hostages away from their captors, he'll need Noemi's help if he ever hopes to get out of Nigeria alive.




Her solution? Pose as husband and wife. But when her uncle discovers the union, he insists on a traditional Nigerian wedding--binding Noemi to a man destined to break her heart. Worse, she's discovered the real reason she was kidnapped, and anyone around her is bound to be caught in the cross fire. Including her so-called new husband.




She'll need to figure out a way to leave the man she loves if she wants to save his life.




I give Sunburst five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

Noemi Sutton and Ranger Kingston first met four years ago in Key West. For two weeks they were inseparable, but the relationship ended. Now, four years later Ranger is in Nigeria trying to rescue his brother Colt. With Colt is Noemi. Coincidence or fate? Their time in Nigeria quickly turns dangerous and life threatening. Even so, deep feelings for each other surface. Will they survive long enough to see their relationship come to fruition?
This is a fast moving and well plotted story. There is a large group of interconnected characters who all come together as a family, whether they are blood relatives or not. Action packed, suspenseful and packed with emotion and faith, this novel is well worth reading. Highly recommended.


I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I received an arc from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

This is a story about Noemi and Ranger who meet in Key West but Ranger is too vested in his Navy Seal career that he pushes Noemi away even though she is the best thing that has happened to him.

Fast forward four years and he meets Noemi again after she has been kidnapped. He ends up rescuing Noemi but Both try to deny their feelings however they need each other to get to safety.

Can the two survive and can they confirm their true feelings for each other or will more danger keep them apart?
4.5 stars

I read 61% of this book and stopped reading, truly not caring what the outcome was.

I had heard good things about this author and looked forward to reading one of her books….sorry, just did not grab me.

I received this book from the publisher via net galley in exchange for an honest review.

Action packed and fast paced story! Loved it!
Naomi finds herself in a hostage situation in Nigeria. Who should appear in the rescue but Ranger whom Naomi knew previously. The hostages are rescued, but due to circumstances, Naomi and Precious, a teenage girl who was also being held by terrorists get left behind with Ranger. Ranger is injured and is trying to get the three of them to the rest of the group for evacuation.
Naomi and Ranger pretend to be husband and wife to save his life and to get them the help they need. When they end up at her uncle's home, she discovers he is a king! He, believing they are married, insists on a traditional wedding and preparations are underway. Whatever are they to do?
Naomi loves Ranger, but doesn't think he feels the same about her and vice versa. When the terrorists discover them, they are on the run again. Why do these people want Naomi? What could she possibly have that they would want?
High action story that you will love.
I was given an advanced ecopy by the publisher, Revell through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.

Susan May Warren is well known for her family sagas. Sunburst continues her tradition of creating fabulous stories following the lives of family members. Each book usually focuses on one member of the family's story. Sunburst was a fantastic read covering Ranger Kingston's adventure as he rescues his brother, Colt. He finds more than expected in Nigeria. I loved the humor that comes out even in the most challenging situations. Noemi is a delightful surprise. I have fallen in love with the Kingston family and am anxiously awaiting book 3, Sundown which releases a lifetime from now...November 1, 2022.

So grab some ice tea and curl up in your favorite reading place for a fabulous adventure from Nigeria to Alaska!

I was given a copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

Sunburst is the 2nd book in the Sky King Ranch series. It stands on its own, but it might be helpful to read the first book (I hadn’t) to understand the characters and relationships.

This book is intense and complex. We are dropped into Nigeria when former Seal Ranger Kingston is part of a mission to save his brother from terrorists. Susan May Warren does an excellent job bringing Nigeria to life.

Hostage situations, terrorism, escape plans, even the romance are complex. The suspense is palpable, and the romance is very satisfying. Through it all runs a thread of faith. All this make Sunburst a very good read.

I received a copy from the publisher and Net Galley. The opinions are my own.

I have loved Susan May Warren’s books for years. And after reading the first book in her latest series, I couldn’t wait for Sunburst to arrive. If you love action, adventure, intrigue and a little bit of romance then this book is for you.

I love how there was always something happening in this book. As soon as one situation or problem was solved another popped up. Plus it wasn’t always predictible which makes for a great story.

I also really enjoyed the fact that this romantic suspense book was able to include some of my favourite romcom tropes, such as fake relationship/marriage of convenience. This was probably one of my favourite parts of the book.

It was also fun to see a different culture with the Nigerian wedding. I went to a Nigerian wedding last year and they are so much fun and so different to a normal Australian wedding. It was fun to see that in a book.

I definitely recommend this book. I would say that it could be read as a standalone, but there is a very imporant plot thread that goes through the whole series, so I would recommend reading the series in order.

Susan May Warren never disappoints! It was great to meet former SEAL Ranger Kingston again. When the Kingston triplets are around, there is always lots of action! They rescue those in danger when no one else can! I felt sorry for Noemi because she had never felt wanted. You'll wonder if a Nigerian wedding is legal and if it will help Noemi and Ranger get out of Nigeria alive! Who wants Noemi dead? Ranger and Noemi both have secrets that no one knows and you will wonder if they will get to Ranger's family in Alaska alive. Sunburst is part of the Sky King Ranch series but can be read as a stand alone. I recommend Sunburst to anyone who likes a fast paced book. I received a complimentary e-book through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.