Justice Delivered - A Memphis Cold Case Novel | Book Review

I was excited to get my first romantic suspense book from Revell Reads! This is a genre I really haven't dabbled in yet!

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Back Cover

Carly Smith came by her trust issues honestly. She's been at the mercy of merciless men, ignored by law enforcement officers who should have helped her, and seemingly rejected by her family. She can't even trust herself to do the right thing. Though she is working hard on building a new life, the past continues to haunt her when she discovers that the man she couldn't bring herself to report to the police is still out there, luring vulnerable girls under the guise of being a modeling agent.

When her own niece is kidnapped, Carly must overcome her fears and come forward with the information she has. But if that proves to be too little, too late - she'll have to go after the perpetrators herself.

My Thoughts

So, here's the thing. Patricia Bradley is the award-winning author of the Memphis Cold Case novels and the Logan Point series. Personally, I'd like to read another of her books, because I have a feeling she has some great ones. This novel was a bit disappointing, though, for one simple reason.

I don't know about you, but when I figure out where the story-line is going by the time I'm a quarter of the way in, and at the last page, I'm telling my husband, "Yep, I was exactly right - no surprises there!" it's hard for me to love a book. I like being taken on a journey when I read. I like surprise plot-twists, and I like gradually building relationships with the characters - seeing their inner layers and feeling the story through them. So this book never truly pulled me in, sad to say.

That being said, this novel does tackle the tough subject of human trafficking. It really is heart-breaking that something so diabolical is still so prevalent in our country. So I appreciate people who try to raise awareness through their work.

Carly's past affects her everyday decisions in very practical ways. Even with her work as a counselor to troubled young women, she is still left feeling inadequate and ashamed. She has to learn to rely on others - and trust God - if she is ever going to face the monsters of her past and protect those who matter most to her. And ex-boyfriend Logan Donovan must win that trust before time runs out for Carly's 17-year-old niece, Lexi. What happens next is a suspenseful, fast-paced adventure that many have said kept them on the edge of their seats. ;)

For my mom readers: even though this book addresses hard issues, I think it could still be appropriate for teens, because of the discreetness with which the subject is handled. I would even venture to say that it is a good lesson in personal security and the dangers of keeping secrets from your family - and why you shouldn't trust strangers who offer bigger than life opportunities.

If you're looking for a quick, adrenaline-packed read, then you will enjoy Justice: Delivered.

My rating: 3 stars

*I received an advance copy of this book from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to give a positive review and all opinions expressed here are my own.*