I'm loving the Lake City Heroes books! I'm sure hoping that there will be several more in store for us readers! I've loved being pulled into this town with all of these great characters.

My friend introduced me to Lynette Eason's books last year and I have to say that I am hooked! I love a good clean suspense and this author delivers that in each of the books I've read. The characters are well written and developed and the storyline keeps me turning the pages quickly to figure out what's going to happen! And trying to piece together all of the puzzle pieces.

Kenzie was fun to read about and get to know even more after seeing little cameos of her in previous books by this author. Cole as well. I loved learning more about their history together and their families' histories. The way that they support each other in their jobs, and the concern they have for each other only built upon this book's appeal.

And the flashback story...wowsers! I wanted to flip ahead in the story and just read all of those chapters/scenes. But I was good and let it all play out and boy, oh boy, it was a wild ride! Hold onto your seats because you're going to be guessing all over the place and trying to figure it out. I had some suspicions and then I would second guess myself. I love all of the twists and turns and plot twists! I hope you will too!

Now I can't wait for the next book!!!

Content: Clean. This book has mild moments of peril but was written very well and in a clean manner. There are guns and bombs and bad guys and kidnappings. Talk of a patient in an asylum for medical treatment. Murder and threats. Some kissing but nothing further than kissing.

I received a copy from the publisher, Revell, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

Buckle up, buttercup for the ride of your life! Target Acquired, the second of the Lake City Heroes series, delivers another fantastic storyline with wonderful characters. Don't start this one at night unless you plan to stay up all night. This book was provided by Lynette Eason, the publisher and Net Galleyformy review. These are my opinions. Definitely worth the read.

Thank you for the ARC!

I didn't connect with the characters, and therefore didn't finish this title. The jumps back in time also broke the flow for me.

Target Acquired is the second book in Lynette Eason’s Lake City Heroes series. While this is part of a series with similar characters, this is also a great stand alone This is a fast paced, action packed, story that is filled with suspense and mystery. I just love the characters in this story. I admire the strength and determination Kenzie has to be the best SWAT team member she can be. Working in a field that is filled with men, she she has to prove herself to them. Cole is the leader of the SWAT team and is a very caring person. His faith shines through with how he cares for his team.

This is an enjoyable Christian romantic suspense story that is fun to read. It grabbed my attention right from the beginning and held it to the very end. I look forward to reading the rest of this series.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

Target Acquired by Lynette Eason
(Book 2 in the Lake City Heroes Series)

3 Stars

Double Take is one book I absolutely loved, so this one was one of my most anticipated releases for the year. This one is a dual timeline story and I really liked the past timeline of 1940s from the mental institution where we follow a woman's story of being thrown in this hospital by her father, the doctor and friend she has while in there that help her throughout the story and her doing what she has to do to get out of there. In the present day timeline we follow Kenzie King who finally earned her place as a medic on the SWAT team and Cole Garrison who cares for Kenzie and works with her to solve the mysteries that keep unfolding. Seeing how the past timeline was tied into the current and how the characters were related to our present day group was something I really enjoyed.

However, I will say I liked the first book better than this one. For some reason, I was not as engaged or connected to the present day timeline. I love her writing, I just don't know why I wasn't really connecting to the characters in the present day as much as I would have liked to be. One thing I don't love is Kenzie's place on the team had some of the "because I'm a woman" talk that I never usually like just in general in books. I get that is the whole point of her joining this all male team that some of the men would not take too keen to her, but having it be a big part of the plot really wasn't my favorite thing.

I did enjoy the romance that was here overall, as it was a slow burn and they really got to know each other, but the action and suspense left me wanting more. I also struggled to keep up with who was who sometimes and wanted more in the ending. We didn't really get shown what happened in the past so I personally would have preferred that.

Either way, please take me with a grain of salt on this one - I am going to read the next one in the series because it deals with fire and I love Lynette's writing. If you like suspense, give this one a go.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an e-book copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Target Acquired is a page turner! Ms. Eason does not disappoint her fans and will quickly acquire new ones that like fast moving mysteries. The relationship between Kenzie and her fellow SWAT team members are realistic. The plot is fast paced and the mystery of who is trying to hurt Kenzie makes this title a very enjoyable read. (The sweet budding romance is nice too!) I missed the first in the Lake City Heroes series but will be going back to read, Double Take. Highly recommended to readers who like a quick who done it that keeps you guessing until the end.

I received an ARC ebook from NetGalley and the publisher, Revell in exchange for an honest review.

Target Acquired
by Lynette Eason
Pub DateAug 20 2024
Revell
Christian| Mystery & Thrillers| Romance


Revell and Netgalley provided me with a copy of Target Acquired for review:


Kenzie King is finally earning her place as a tactical medic on a SWAT team. However, not everyone on the team accepts her. There is a rumor that she wasn't hired because of what she could do, but because of who she knew. To prove herself, she must work harder and longer than anyone else.



Cole Garrison is a man of deep faith who is ready to build a family of his own, if he finds the right partner. Kenzie certainly set off his interest meter, but trouble seems to follow. Someone has been ambushing and killing team members since she joined.



All hands are on deck to identify the killer and put an end to the killing. Is it possible for Kenzie and Cole to put aside their differences and work together as a team? Will a sniper's bullet snuff out their budding attraction?
  
I give Target Acquired five out Of five stars!


Happy Reading!

This book was a joy to read. I enjoyed the way the story flowed and I had a few moments that kind of made me question a few things. The characters were very interesting and I had smile quite a few times. This author really knows how to tell a story that will captivate you from the very beginning. I highly recommend this book and this author.

As the first female SWAT team member, Kenzie has been struggling to be accepted by the rest of the team ever since she joined, almost six months earlier. But things go from unpleasant to deadly when she's targetted in a couple of attacks - and soon, she starts to wonder whether it's someone on the team who's so eager to get her off he'd kill her. Cole, as team leader, has been careful not to take a stand either way on Kenzie's position, lest he be viewed as showing favouritism. But as things start to get out of hand, it's clear she needs support and protection - and Cole is surprised to realise how much he wants the job. Why is Kenzie really in the cross-hairs? Can they uncover and stop the would-be killer before it's too late? And will they be willing to take a chance on the relationship that seems so far out of reach?

A definite page-turner with plenty of action, a killer who kept me guessing, an interesting (albeit horrible) snippet of history, some good relationship development, and an intriguing family back-story. I didn't particularly like the conflict within the team, but it was done well to feel realistic and form a good part of the story. It's been clear in previous books that there's something between Cole and Kenzie, even if never acknowledged by either, so it was good to see them finally admit and develop it - not to mention it was great to see Kenzie's role in the team finally accepted by her team members. I'm not one for feminism, but I do think that if one does a good job, one's gender should be irrelevant - and that's not the way it was for most of the book, so I appreciated the change. All in all, a beautifully woven story of revenge on one side and protection and love on the other. A great read.

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.

Another page turner from Lynette Eason! In this second book in the Lake City Heroes series, we are introduced to Kenzie King, a medic on the SWAT team and also the only female. Not everyone is happy about that and Kenzie works to prove herself. Soon the team is the target of several ambush attacks and it appears that Kenzie may be the actual target. In the midst of all of this, Kenzie realizes that she has feelings for Cole Garrison, the team leader. Both she and Cole try to hide their feelings because dating the boss wouldn't exactly make her life easier. Will the team work together to protect Kenzie or will she be forced to face the danger alone? And will Kenzie and Cole be able to be honest with themselves and each other about their feelings? There are twists, turns, complicated relationships, and romance all wrapped up in this amazing book. Warning: you won't be able to put it down until the very end. I highly recommend it!

4.5 stars

“And just like that, his whole ‘I’m not trusting my heart to anyone ever again’ vow scattered like ashes. Because he was falling for her.”

This series kicked off with a bang in Double Take, and Lynette Eason skillfully carries that explosive energy over into Target Acquired. (If you’re wondering whether I used words like ‘bang’ and ‘explosive’ on purpose… maaaaaaaybe. You’ll just have to read it for yourself and find out lol.)

We got a hint of the tension (romantic and otherwise) between Kenzie and Cole in Double Take, so I’ve been really eager to see how it would all play out in their own story. I knew there would be some intriguing layers there, and Target Acquired proved me right. From the complex SWAT team dynamics to their separate (and also complex) family issues to all the reasons a romance between them shouldn’t work, Kenzie and Cole have a lot of complications to overcome before ‘happily-ever-after’ can be anything more than a wishful thought. Including the not-so minor problem that someone wants Kenzie off the team badly enough to try and kill her. In fact, you may want to buckle up for this one because you’ll be on the edge of your seat as Kenzie and the rest of the SWAT team try to stay a step ahead of the person gunning for them. Also, buckling up will keep you safe from any swoon-induced injuries from the electric chemistry and repressed feelings between these two. I’m pretty sure I thanked God right along with Cole when they finally got to kissing 😉

What sets Target Acquired distinctly apart from Eason’s previous novels is the historical element she seamlessly weaves into this plot. I thoroughly enjoyed the reading the perspective of a wrongfully-committed mental hospital patient from the late 1940s, as well as trying to figure out how Eliza’s story connected to the present-day attempts on Kenzie’s life. I went back and forth several times on who I thought was behind it all but ultimately only came close to identifying the suspect right as Kenzie did. The shocking turn of events – besides being extremely entertaining suspense fiction – is a thoughtful warning against letting bitterness take root in your heart and fester into hatred.

Bottom Line: Target Acquired is a high-stakes, fast-paced, heart-in-your-throat thriller suspense novel which uses a historical element, a sweet and swoony romance & gentle notes of faith to add dimension and depth. Kenzie’s skill as an MD medic on a SWAT team applauds the smart & talented women out there who have fought determinedly to claim their rightful place in traditionally male-dominated fields, though most don’t have to fight for their lives like Kenzie does. Cole is all kinds of swoonlicious – AND an adoring uncle to boot, which just makes him even yummier in my opinion – but it’s his respect for Kenzie along with his feelings for her that most cemented him as a hero in my eyes. (Okaaay, his sacrifices for his niece didn’t hurt either lol). This series is one of Lynette Eason’s finest, and Target Acquired was truly a pleasure to read.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

I have yet to read a book by Lynette Eason that I don't love! I was intrigued from the first page. Kenzie King has had to work hard to be a medic on the SWAT team where all but one team member has accepted her! When attempts are made on Kenzie's life, she and Sergeant Cole Garrison wonder if that member could be behind them. A small portion of the book is the story of Kenzie and Cole's grandmothers in the 1940s. Their story is partly behind the things that are happening now. Cole has been hurt in a romance in his past and fights his attraction for Kenzie especially since he is her boss. You will love this story of romance, grudges, danger, family history and forgiveness. I received an advance e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.

This story was so intriguing with its dual time and family connections both past and present. It also had a very compelling mystery that I did not figure out.

I enjoyed getting to know Cole and Kenzie and their team.

I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

This is the second book in this amazing series set in Lake City, North Carolina. The story travels from the past to the present at various times, but flows smoothly to explain how actions from those in the past may have affected the future of Kenzie King and Cole Garrison. Cole is the SWAT team leader as well as a detective with the Lake City Police Department. Dr. Kenzie King has a place on the SWAT team as a medic, a goal she has achieved through hard work and dedication. It soon appears that someone wants her off of the team, but who and why? When the threats first began, they seemed coincidental, not specifically aimed at her, but soon it is obvious that she is the target. Cole has tried to control the slow attraction that he feels for her as she has for him. As he works to find out who is targeting her, he will have to rely on information from the past. Is her attacker someone who was not chosen for the team or someone who has waited a long time for revenge? The total support from her friends and colleagues is heartwarming. A thrilling series with twists that will keep you guessing until the explosive ending! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

Target Acquired is a good, contemporary who-done-it read. While it is a dual timeline story, the focus is definitely on the members of the SWAT team in the contemporary setting. The importance of the 1940s story is not readily apparent until the contemporary storyline has been developed. As I read, there were times I almost felt startled when the attention returned to 1947, having momentarily forgotten it was even connected. While Target Acquired could be classified as romantic suspense, the romance part is more of a what-if rather than a sizzling story component. While it is also considered Christian fiction, it mostly depicts Christians living a wholesome lifestyle, with the majority of references to God or Jesus being included in intercessory prayers for help and statements of gratitude for God’s intervention. There are no overarching Christian themes that I could identify. That said, it is an engaging, entertaining story that held my interest. I feel comfortable recommending this book and am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

This book is absolutely EXPLOSIVE. Eason does a phenomenal job of winding numerous plot threads together, each with purpose and intentionality. This is a book you won't be able to put down until it's done, and then you're probably waiting for the next one in the series. Both main characters (Cole and Kenzie) are relatable and easy to empathize with, and I loved the difficult background presented with Kenzie's family members and how she interacts with them. It just made them feel REAL. The sniper scenario in the story is terrifying and keeps you guessing clear to the end, which is something I really appreciated. I woke up thinking about this book and went to bed wishing I could read more...so if you need a gripping storyline, relatable characters, a romance you can root for--definitely pick up a copy of Target Acquired, ASAP!

I received a complimentary copy and this review is my own.
I loved the story! It is exciting and thrilling.
I have referred it to others already and once again, Lynette Eason hasn't disappointed me!

Kenzie King has a rare position for a woman. She is a medic for an all-male SWAT team. It's a job that requires stamina and staying alert, ready to have your teammates' backs along with medical knowledge and expertise. Wondering if your teammates will have your back shouldn't be a concern but Kenzie knows some of the men aren't happy having a female on board. Maybe at least one is angry enough to endanger her. Something isn't right.
Cole Garrison is a SWAT leader and a detective with the Lake City Police. A man of faith, he walks the walk and is respected by his team. He has a special bond with his young niece and is starting to want love and a family of his own. His grandmother and Kenzie's have ties to one another from back in the 1940's. He has to watch himself. He absolutely cannot have feelings for the special woman on his team.
I received the advanced reader's copy of this book, and this is my own unsolicited opinion about it. I really liked this suspenseful story. The subtle weaving in of the two young women's stories from the 1940's certainly drew a parallel to Kenzie's position in modern day. The treatment and expectations from the past and one woman's punishment, thrown into a mental asylum because she won't obey her father's will is sad. The advances and strength Kenzie is able to display first as a medic and secondly as a member of a powerful and professional team is a great example for young adult readers today. It certainly shows a true example of history and battles women faced just because they had intelligence and strong wills.
There are twists and turns to the suspense of the story along with a realistic attraction between Kenzie and Cole. Add in the twist of Kenzie's father's off-putting attitude toward her and his request that she look into the cold case of her mother's death is a whole other challenge.
I give this story a solid 4 out of 5 stars. Thanks to Revell and NetGalley.

3.5 stars
In book two of Lynette Eason’s Lake City Heroes, readers catch up with Kenzie King and Cole Garrison.
Kenzie is ecstatic to join the SWAT team as the medical officer, but the team hasn’t accepted her as one of their own. Cole is caught between leading his team and the crush he’s always had on Kenzie. Someone is targeting Kenzie, though no one really knows why.
The story bounces between the past and present, which is the first time I’ve seen this done in a romantic suspense. The two stories are related, though the connection isn’t made until about mid-way through. It’s an interesting side story that doesn’t make sense until the very end. However, I think the contemporary story would have done well without the historical backstory.
This story moves slowly until a third of the way through.
The circle of friends from the first novel reappears, giving more context to Cole and Kenzie’s relationship which grows from friends to something more. These characters are easy to connect with, but the secondary characters aren’t quite what I expect in a Lynette Eason story.
The villain was a surprise.
If you like slower paced romantic suspense stories with more of a mystery slant to them, you’ll probably like Target Acquired.
I received an ecopy from the publisher through Net Galley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Someone wants to kill Kenzie King. A trained SWAT medic, Kenzie knows she must prove herself and work harder as she serves on an all-male team.

As Kenzie and her team, specifically her supervisor Cole Garrison, work to uncover who is trying to take her down, the duo AND the team hopes the culprit is caught before he actually kills one of them.

This Lake City Heroes #2 book was a thriller that I could not put down! I had to make myself stop reading this one to actually be productive in other tasks. Eason's books keep the reader on his/her toes with just the right amount of twists, terms, and drama. And who can say no to a little romance dropped in?! There was a main plot and a subplot, and sometimes, as well as storytelling in two timelines. Sometimes it can get a little hard to keep track of all the details, but Eason does this well.

I love that the gospel is communicated in the book but not in a cheesy way. I'd actually like to see more of this built in.

The ending felt a bit rushed when it comes to Kenzie and Cole's story, and that's really the only thing I didn't love about the book.

Highly recommend this Christian thriller!