Member Reviews
Irene Hannon is a must read for me and I was excited that she has a new series coming out. The Undaunted Courage series involves a new set of siblings, Bri, Jack and Cara.
Book 1, Into the Fire, focuses on Bri, an arson investigator, and Marc, the ATF agent who works with her to solve a mystery of a string of fires. Although their attraction is immediate, they try to hold off on dating until after this case is solved. All the side characters are great including Nan.
This was such an engaging story and I now I can't wait for Jack's story!
Thank you Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Publication date: 17 October 2023
Bri's new job turns out to be more than she'd anticipated when the previous fire inspector dies in a house fire mere days after arranging to see her about something - and leaving behind a cryptic note for her. She can't shake the feeling that the fire isn't as innocent as it looks - and ATF agent Marc, who's been assigned to help her, is forced to agree. But actual evidence is hard to come by. Meanwhile, time spent together on the case is making both start to reconsider plans to put off anything relationship-related. But evidence is mounting that someone has it in for Bri, whether related to the fires or not. Can they discover the arsonist in time to give themselves a chance to explore a relationship, or is it doomed before it begins?
I think the one downside about this book for me was the amount of time we spend in the bad guy's head - it's not a comfortable place to be. But that the book would have been missing something significant without that, so it's not a serious downside. Other than that, I really enjoyed the story. The suspense side of things was woven in expertly to complement the romance rather than either compete or distract, and it was great to see Marc gradually overcoming Bri's objections by being supportive rather than trying to beat her down. A very satisfying romance as well as a great suspense story. Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
The start of a new series will appeal to readers who enjoy a romantic, suspenseful novel. This series will feature three adopted siblings who are extremely close to each other. Bri, the ex-smokejumper is now a fire investigator is set to find if a series of fires have a common denominator. Bri's past may be catching up with her as odd things keep happening to her. When Marc, an AFT agent is assigned to work with Bri, sparks fly. Lots of twists and turns make this a very enjoyable read. Looking forward to the next book. Highly recommended.
Irene Hannon has once again proven her mastery in crafting engaging and suspenseful tales with her latest work, "Into the Fire," the first book in the Undaunted Courage series. I have been a fan of her for years. This novel introduces us to three adopted siblings, Bri, Jack, and Cara Tucker, each embodying the spirit of courage in the face of adversity. I am already anxiously awaiting their stories.
Bri Tucker, a former "smoke jumper," now works as an investigator for the St. Louis Regional Bomb and Arson Unit. I found her to be an interesting character. Her latest assignment becomes personal when a retired investigator dies in a house fire. The circumstances seem to point to an accidental death, but a lingering suspicion prompts her boss to assign ATF Agent Marc Davis to the case.
The story revolves around the investigation into this suspicious fire, but it also delves into the personal lives of the characters. Both Bri and Marc are complex individuals with their own emotional baggage. The backdrop of their burgeoning attraction adds depth and warmth to the suspenseful narrative.
One of the strengths of this novel is the intuitive reactions of the investigators to the crime scenes. The relentless pursuit of truth and justice is portrayed skillfully, keeping the reader engaged and invested in the story. The complex web of clues and suspicious circumstances creates a suspenseful atmosphere with an enticing buildup.
The narrative shifts perspective to provide insights into the arsonist's mind, adding an extra layer of intrigue and suspense. The tension keeps readers on their toes, and the multiple twists and turns make it an exciting and unpredictable read.
Overall, "Into the Fire" is a compelling and well-written suspense novel with likable characters, an intriguing plot, and a satisfying blend of romance, suspense, and Christian themes. Irene Hannon once again demonstrates her storytelling prowess, creating a narrative that is impossible to put down. This book is highly recommended for readers who enjoy solving mysteries and relish an engaging and magnetic read.
I am intrigued by this new series, Undaunted Courage, by Irene Hannon. She certainly shows her multi talented ability to write about different situations and lifestyles. This new series focuses on Bri, Jack and Cara Tucker, three adopted siblings who show courage in the face of challenge.
Bri, a former "smoke jumper" is an investigator for the St. Louis Regional Bomb and Arson Unit. Her superior assigns her to the case of their former co-worker who has died in a fire in his home. Due to the seemingly slam dunk of the accidental death and the extra care for the retired investigator her boss tells her that an ATF agent will also be part of the investigation.
ATF Agent Marc Davis has transferred to the St. Louis area so he can watch over his grandmother. He responds to the assignment and meets Bri and immediately feels something for the professional woman.
I liked this story and the build up to 'why'. Investigators have intuitive reactions to the scene and the investigation the dead man had been conducting even into retirement. I figured out who the perpetrator was but not why which was threaded neatly into the plot. I received a copy of the book from Revell through NetGalley and this is my own opinion of it. I really like the characters and the way the pasts of each individual helped define who they are in present day. (The adoptive Tucker parents had to be quite strong and of great moral character to raise three scarred children to be courageous, honest and good.) Even the perpetrator has issues that spark empathy up to a point.) This is a solid mystery, filled with suspense that has just the right spark of romance and chemistry. I like it very much and recommend it to those who enjoy solving mysteries and a magnetic read. Definitely a 4.5 in my rating system. I look forward to Jack's story which comes next.
Into the Fire by Irene Hannon is an excellent, exciting Christian suspense novel! It's the first in a brand new series, and I cannot wait to read the next one! I loved the characters! They're well-written and realistic. The two main characters have intriguing backstories of loss that make them who they are. They're also passionate about finding justice for arson victims. I always tell myself not to read suspense books before bed, but I never listen. Into the Fire kept me up way past my bedtime. I just could not put it down. I had an inkling as to who the "bad guy" was, but I did change my mind a few times. I definitely recommend this book! If you love suspense books with interesting characters, clean romance, lots of suspense, and a Christian theme, read Into the Fire!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
To be honest, I was not a big fan of Into the Fire by Irene Hannon. While I am normally an avid reader of suspense, I found this novel to be rather disturbing, especially the antagonist. Also, the comments about the immediate physical attraction between the two main characters was unnecessary and rather off putting. I will reach for other suspense novels in my stack before this one.
4.5 stars
Wow! What a thrilling start to a new series.
Bri and Marc were both interesting and relatable characters. I really liked how open and honest they were about things. I appreciated how Marc was not deterred by Bri's walls and how Bri struggled with what she truly wanted to do. Trying something again when you have been hurt is not an easy thing to do and Hannon let her character wrestle.
There are some deep and meaningful conversations - between characters and in characters' thoughts - but there is also a lot of fun moments. My favorite is that Hannon made her siblings lovers of <i>White Christmas</i> and included the best line in the movie: "When what's left of you gets around to what's left to be gotten, what's left to be gotten won't be worth getting, whatever it is you've got left." I was so excited!!
I was also really please with myself for guessing correctly who the culprit was way in advance! There was a moment and something clicked, so I made a note and, sure enough, I was right! That felt good. I don't often get the culprit(s) right in advance.
I think this is going to be a great series and I'm looking forward to learning more about the Tucker siblings and their stories.
This book was incredible. I was hooked from the first page, and couldn't put it down.
I loved these characters. They were the kind of people I wish I knew in real life. I could relate to them, and loved their chemistry.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own *
Irene Hannon knows how to write gripping, page-turning suspense. Into the Fire grabbed me from the beginning, and I had a hard time putting this book down. The romantic tension between Marc and Bri was delicious, but it was the suspense that really had me glued to the page as I tried to figure out who the culprit was. Hannon throws in a few red herrings here and there, which threw me off the scent a bit, and she had plenty of plot twists along the way.
That’s not to say I didn’t love the romance. I always love a good Hannon hero, and Marc was no exception. I liked his straightforward manner and the respectful way he pursued Bri. I also loved the discussions about God. Hannon manages to weave those into all her books without coming across heavyhanded or preachy. I always have a nugget to chew on when I finish one of her stories.
Overall, Into the Fire is a gripping story that romantic suspense fans will love.
As Irene Hannon begins her Undaunted Courage series, she pairs arson investigator Bri Tucker with ATF Special Agent Marc Davis to uncover the secrets buried beneath the rubble of a former colleague's mysterious house fire in book one, Into the Fire. Will they be able to decipher their gut feelings from the facts of the case before it's too late?
I enjoyed Hannon's take on the Tucker and Davis families. Bri has two siblings with strong personalities. They each have important jobs but more importantly they make sure they're very involved in each others lives. None of them gets away with keeping the others at arms length for very long. Marc was raised by his grandparents. He and his grandmother are tightly knit together and faithful to look out for one another.
Hannon does a good job of introducing this new series with characters who are courageous. They press on when life throws them curve balls, yet they struggle with the everyday things most people struggle with - not the least of which is forgiveness.
I enjoyed this novel and look forward to what the rest of the series will bring.
Thank you Revell and NetGalley for the opportunity to dive in with both feet. All opinions are my own.
This was my first suspense by Irene Hannon, and I liked it enough to go to her website and look up what else she'd written. The protagonist's occupation as an arson investigator and former smoke jumper made for a very interesting character. There were more POV characters than I'm used to, but I'm a fan because she used it to build the tension while still keeping the reader somewhat blind to the end game. A great mix of romance, mystery, and action.
This book was so good! So good. It jumps right into the action and keeps you there until the end. As a smokejumper turned arson investigator, Bri has learned to trust her gut instincts. When she begins looking into a series of cases that she feels are related, her gut is screaming at her that there is more to the story. Especially when one of them involved the death of a retired investigator. Who just so happened to be planning on meeting with Bri right before his death.
To figure things out, Bri is partnered with ATF agent Marc. The two of them are clearly attracted to one another right from the start. They also clearly want to resist one another even when it's obvious there is an immediate strong connection between the two of them. As their attraction escalates, so does the danger around them.
This book had me hooked the entire time and I'm so glad there are going to be more like it. Irene Hannon did some really great world building in this book and it has me so excited for the other characters to get their own stories as well!
My thoughts: INTO THE FIRE is the newest romantic suspense by IRENE HANNON, one of the best in the genre. I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next and who-dun-it. It did keep me guessing until the end. I loved the way Bri interacted with her brother and how she and Marc connected right away. Definite sparks even though they tried to ignore them. If you like stories about firefighters and fire investigators, then you will absolutely LOVE INTO THE FIRE. Grab your copy now and get an extta copy for a reader on your list. I was given a cooy free and all opiniions are my own.
When a retired arson investigator dies in a suspicious fire, Bri Tucker is called in to investigate. A former smokejumper, she’s no stranger to jumping into dangerous situations. But she’ll need every ounce of wit and courage she possesses to piece together the puzzle she’s been handed. Partnering with ATF Special Agent Marc Davis, they uncover a series of mysterious and fiery deaths. And the closer they get to the murder, the closer the murderer gets to Bri.
With Into the Fire, Irene Hannon yet again proves she is the master of romantic suspense. It’s a page-turning, heart-pounding race to the will-they-make-it-out-alive end! A must-read!
*Thank you to NetGalley and Revell for the complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Into the Fire is the start of a new trilogy by Irene Hannon. We are following Bri Tucker a former smokejumper and current arson investigator during her investigation into the mysterious fire and death of a former colleague. During the investigation she has to team up with ATF Special Agent Marc Davis and the two develop a relationship. When Bri starts to find more pieces of the puzzle and gets closer to solve the case, the danger escalates. This book was another great read from Irene Hannon. I loved the mystery part and loved the main characters. The romance in the book was great and I loved the character development of the two main characters. The only part that was a little weird for me, was the abrupt reveal of the killer's name. You switched POVs and instead of the mysterious killer POV, you get the name of the killer.
Overall a good book and I am looking forward to the next book in the trilogy.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy!
BOOK REVIEW - Into the Fire - Irene Hannon - 5/5 Stars
THE STORY
Chicago Fire is one of my all time favourite shows so I'm always down for any story that's about firemen (or firewomen). And this book didn't disappoint! I loved learning more about investigation side of fires. Any mystery that I can't figure out before the big reveal is a good mystery and I didn't figure this one out which meant it was excellent! Irene Hannon always has chapters from the villains POV and I don't know why I enjoy reading their unstable views but it really adds to the stories. Into the Fire will draw in from the very first page and won't let go until the very end! It's a swoony adrenaline filled mystery with such wonderful characters! I can't wait to read about the rest of the Tucker siblings!
THE ROMANCE
Who can say no to a handsome fireman or in this case a Fire investigator? Something about the profession just makes them automatically swoony but add Irene Hannon's romance writing skills and the swoonyness takes on a whole new level of heat while still being completely clean. It's the type of romance that single girls dream of because who doesn't want someone that falls for them at first glance?!?!
THE TRUTHS
My brain (or heart) has been really focused on the redemption themes in CF lately. How God can redeem any situation or person and turn what is bad and broken into an unexpected blessing. How He can take the trauma of our past or the pain of our present and turn it into strength, character, and a future filled with hope and joy.
Into the Fire by Irene Hannon – An Interesting and Satisfying Read
Irene Hannon has become one of my favorite writers. I enjoy her romance stories and suspense novels. That is why I was excited to read her newest book Into the Fire, the first book in the Undaunted Courage series.
Bri Tucker was scheduled to meet with retired arson investigator, Les Kavanaugh, to review several cases he thought merited further investigation. Instead, she finds herself at Les’ home investigating a fire that has taken his life. The next day Bri reluctantly accepts help from ATF Agent Marc Davis. After Bri and Marc examined the scene, both agree that there wasn’t much of anything to suggest arson. Just that nagging feeling that something is not right. Though Bri and Marc find each other attractive, each has their own emotional baggage that may make developing a personal relationship difficult.
I really liked this book. I found the investigation of a fire very interesting. What makes a fire suspicious vs accidental, and what information is relevant in an arson case. I liked the characters. At first, I wasn’t too keen on Bri. But as her background was unveiled, I grew to appreciate her. Marc was a wonderful character, kind, caring, wise, and protective. Also enjoyed the Bri’s sister and brother and their close, and supportive relationships. Loved Marc’s grandmother, such a sweet, wise, and caring woman.
I did not suspect who the bad guy was. Interesting that the story begins with the perspective of the arsonist. About two thirds of the way through the story the bad guy is revealed, which causes the reader to look forward to seeing how the characters will solve the case.
Faith was part of the story, especially with Marc’s character. I would like to have seen it even more with other characters.
With the mix of an interesting plot, likeable characters, mystery, suspense, and romance, Into the Fire by Irene Hanson was an interesting and satisfying read. I recommend it. The book will be released on October 17, 2023.
I would like to thank Revell Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of Into the Fire by Irene Hannon. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.
This is an awesome start to a new adventure series!
I love Ms. Hannon's work! I think that this novel proves that she can write anything. Her stories are always exciting no matter what.
What I liked about this book was that it is fast-paced and lots of twists to keep you on the edge of your seat.
I sort of found it creepy that Hannon put the killer's POV in the story. I've never read a book quite like this one before, and I'm not sure if I like it or not. This will have to take some getting used to. You see this in the crime scene shows all the time. But to me, it's different in a book.
While I was reading this book, I could picture all the different scenes that were taking place with Marc and Bri at the helm of course. An excellent team of course.
I was happy to see that Hannon added God into the mix to help these characters on their journey to help solve the murders.
5 stars for a well written story that will make your heart go boom boom all the way through!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is a terrific beginning of a new series. Bri and Marc are likeable characters with realistic struggles and genuine concerns about starting a relationship. While I found the motivation for the murders a bit of a stretch, the suspense builds nicely, and the climax and resolution are well-paced.
This is Christian fiction and as such has talk of God, prayer, and forgiveness.
Overall, I enjoyed this story and would recommend it, especially for lovers of romantic suspense.
Family friendly, though it does contain mild violence typical of the genre.