I really enjoyed reading this first book in the FBI Task Force series. I liked the characters and enjoyed seeing how they developed during the story. The mystery and suspense was incredible. I literally never knew what was coming next! I just kept turning the page until the end. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series now.

This is Christian fiction with no bad language and no sex. ( )

58188

Author DiANN Mills is a uniquely skilled storyteller, specializing in tales of inspirational contemporary romantic suspense. Her meticulously researched works offer compelling characterizations, involving storylines, and always the underlying element of abiding faith. “Deadly Encounter” is the first book in her “FBI Task Force” series, and it does not disappoint readers who are expecting an engaging romantic suspense read. Veterinarian Stacy Broussard volunteers as a security ranger, patrolling the perimeter of Houston’s airport by horseback. On one Saturday morning, what begins as a quiet ride on a well-known trail soon turns into a nightmare when Stacy discovers a dead body. Close to the body is a bloodied motorcycle—even closer is a yellow Lab, tucked against the man’s body, her leash held by the grip of the dead man’s hand. Not far from the body, Stacy finds a downed drone, and it’s the type used by psychotic individuals to blind pilots and cause air disasters. To FBI Special Agent LeBlanc, the incident screams terrorism, but he also knows to look deeper than evidence first suggests. As further unsettling events occur, Stacy and Alex are drawn together to solve the mystery and prevent another deadly encounter. With the discovery of much in common from their pasts, an awareness and attraction begins to grow. They are each at a different stage in their journey of faith, but will their hearts find the right road to follow together to reach the ultimate destination of a life filled with love and happiness? A highly-recommended read from the wonderful DiANN Mills.

Book Copy Gratis Tyndale House Publishers via Tyndale Blog Network ( )

Yayyy, a romantic suspense with a romance I actually really LIKED! :D RTC! ( )

I recently read Deep Extraction, book 2 in DiAnn Mills FBI Task Force series and really liked it. So when I was looking for an audiobook to accompany me on my morning walks, I was glad to choose book 1 in the series, Deadly Encounter. While I liked book 2 much more, Deadly Encounter was a good choice for the daily workout — easy to listen to, quick-paced with plenty of action, and endearing characters. I did find it stretched the limits of credibility, but I chose to suspense my disbelief and join in on the rollercoaster ride.

Stacy Broussard, a Houston veterinarian, is swept into a conspiracy of deceit, danger and murder when she discovers a body on her morning ride around Houston’s airport. Due to past betrayals, FBI agent Alex LeBlanc is suspicious of her involvement, but soon learns to trust her. Their chemistry is unmistakable, but will they live long enough to explore a future together?

Characterization is the strongest element of Deadly Encounter. I found Stacy, Alex, and 12 year old prodigy, Whit engaging and and endearing. Whit especially stole this reader’s heart. The three all struggle with relationship issues which impact how they view themselves, others, and most importantly God. The plot is full of twists and turns and slightly over-the-top threats from unknown bad guys. As I said, some of the plot threads didn’t seem plausible, but I found them interesting anyway. One thing I did have a problem with — Stacy’s veterinary practice. She had no employees (tech/receptionist/kennel worker) and relied solely on Whit’s help in the day-to-day operations. My husband is a vet, and even when he was starting out he had several employees. With the type of business she had, it seems almost impossible for Stacy to do everything in the practice — answer the phone, run lab work, treat patients, take X-rays, perform surgery , etc. — with only a 12 year old’s after school and weekend help. But again, I enjoyed the book so I chose to overlook it.

DiAnn Mills is a great storyteller, and Deadly Encounter kept me listening. I have to confess to some marathon time with this audiobook.

Recommended.

Audience: adults. ( )