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The Fourth of July
When eight parade floats explode during the annual Fourth of July celebrations, Agent Chris Harmer must find who planted the bombs before the terrorists strike again. His troubles aren't isolated to terrorism. Chris falls in love with the FBI's feisty psychiatrist, Alexis Osborne. She won't commit to someone who doesn't share her religious values, and Chris has no desire to convert.
270 pages, Perfect Paperback
First published June 1, 2007
95 people are currently reading
310 people want to read
About the author
Cami Checketts
305 books1,132 followersCami Checketts is a USA Today Bestselling author of over a hundred clean romance novels. Her journey began on an Idaho dairy farm daydreaming book ideas on her bike or tractor and landing herself in the hospital numerous times for head wounds. She settled down after college (retired the bike at least) to raise four crazy boys and write down all those fabulous ideas. Cami's life is busy but she thoroughly enjoys rarely living in reality.
Cami loves the Savior, her husband, her boys, her daughter-in-law, her grandson, traveling, chocolate, and exercise.
Get a free book when you sign up for Cami's VAP (Very Awesome People) list - www.camichecketts.com
Cami loves the Savior, her husband, her boys, her daughter-in-law, her grandson, traveling, chocolate, and exercise.
Get a free book when you sign up for Cami's VAP (Very Awesome People) list - www.camichecketts.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 7, 2015
I bought this one awhile ago and had plans to read it last summer, but didn't. I was online on the 4th of July and it showed up as being on sale and I remembered that I already had it. What better day to read it?
Cami Checketts has a way of incorporating creepy/scary situations with real people and situations. My family had gone to a parade the night before I read this and I've never thought about what would happen if terrorists decided to attack parade floats. The aftermath of this particular situation was stunning, horrifying, and really scary. The fear I felt was real.
I love the way the story goes back and forth between a few different people. I understood more of the characters and the plot that way--gaps were filled in and reasons uncovered. The characters were strong and resourceful, even in times of peril--or especially in those tough times.
The way the story progressed and wrapped up is creative and satisfying and I really enjoyed it all. I always know what I'm getting with this author--a great, romantic suspence.
Content: mild-moderate violence (not graphic); no language; clean romance (kissing), attempted attack; moderate religious elements.
Cami Checketts has a way of incorporating creepy/scary situations with real people and situations. My family had gone to a parade the night before I read this and I've never thought about what would happen if terrorists decided to attack parade floats. The aftermath of this particular situation was stunning, horrifying, and really scary. The fear I felt was real.
I love the way the story goes back and forth between a few different people. I understood more of the characters and the plot that way--gaps were filled in and reasons uncovered. The characters were strong and resourceful, even in times of peril--or especially in those tough times.
The way the story progressed and wrapped up is creative and satisfying and I really enjoyed it all. I always know what I'm getting with this author--a great, romantic suspence.
Content: mild-moderate violence (not graphic); no language; clean romance (kissing), attempted attack; moderate religious elements.
June 26, 2014
I have liked other books by this author; so, I'm quite disappointed with this one. "Shallow" is the only word I can think of to describe both the plot and the characters.
At 53% of the way through this book I am struggling to like any of the lead characters. The lead female character almost makes me cringe.
The latter portion of the book had some small redeeming elements.
At 53% of the way through this book I am struggling to like any of the lead characters. The lead female character almost makes me cringe.
The latter portion of the book had some small redeeming elements.
October 30, 2014
I wanted to give this book more stars and I wanted to like it more because I think it is good to support writers of clean romances. While this book was squeaky clean, there were so many problems with the story that I can't in good conscience give it more stars.
Pros: Good, fast-paced interesting story line. The religious tone of the book wasn't overly preachy, but was incorporated seamlessly into the story. Believable, interesting characters. The romance was NOT centered solely on physical attraction and sex, but dealt with real relationships--weaknesses, strengths, and real conflict. I liked the last few scenes where the main character realizes that hatred toward his enemies is against God's commandments and could destroy those he loves. That was powerful and well-done. There was also excellent tension and conflict as the two main characters deal with their feelings toward one another but are in very different places regarding their religious leanings and faiths.
Cons: Flat villains (not necessarily a bad thing as it is common for the genre).
Plot lines that went all over the place and didn't resolve. For example, two secondary characters--a married, Christian couple, are clearly having problems in their marriage. They love one another deeply, but the wife feels neglected, while the husband justifies his excessive helping others because he thinks his wife is strong and doesn't need him. This situation is ultimately unresolved and the characters never discuss the situation--heading for a major meltdown. I felt frustrated at the lack of resolution. The author had two choices, she could have left this side-plot out of the book, or she could have carried the situation to its conclusion, which would have provided a strong sub-plot to the book.
The modesty tangent was frustrating. In the book, one of the characters is nearly assaulted while exercising. Her love-interest saves her, but then accuses her of inviting the assault by her running attire. She argues with him but then days later concedes that she perhaps she should wear longer shorts and baggy t-shirts. There was another incident where other characters are at church and a child calls out an adult woman for wearing too tight clothes. I found myself scratching my head at these choices in the book. Is it appropriate for other women to bash each other on clothing choices? And there was such an element of judging that another woman might not be righteous if her clothing didn't meet the other character's idea of modesty. Don't get me wrong, I definitely believe in modesty, but I don't think it should be used as a yardstick to determine the righteousness or motives of other people. And I certainly don't think that women should be calling out other women on their clothing. The assault incident was also troubling. I'm fully aware of the problem that many people think that women's clothing invites men to assault them. I think that is wrong. It seemed like the author was trying to say something about that. But she seemed to completely change her stance when she had her character concede that she should wear longer shorts and a baggier t-shirt. Having lived in a place where women wore long black robes and veils over their faces and were still assaulted, this logic doesn't ring true to me.
Perhaps this was an earlier book of the author and hopefully she is improving. I will probably try another book. I can recommend this book to people who don't care about plot continuity and don't want to think too deeply about what they are reading and want something clean and light.
Pros: Good, fast-paced interesting story line. The religious tone of the book wasn't overly preachy, but was incorporated seamlessly into the story. Believable, interesting characters. The romance was NOT centered solely on physical attraction and sex, but dealt with real relationships--weaknesses, strengths, and real conflict. I liked the last few scenes where the main character realizes that hatred toward his enemies is against God's commandments and could destroy those he loves. That was powerful and well-done. There was also excellent tension and conflict as the two main characters deal with their feelings toward one another but are in very different places regarding their religious leanings and faiths.
Cons: Flat villains (not necessarily a bad thing as it is common for the genre).
Plot lines that went all over the place and didn't resolve. For example, two secondary characters--a married, Christian couple, are clearly having problems in their marriage. They love one another deeply, but the wife feels neglected, while the husband justifies his excessive helping others because he thinks his wife is strong and doesn't need him. This situation is ultimately unresolved and the characters never discuss the situation--heading for a major meltdown. I felt frustrated at the lack of resolution. The author had two choices, she could have left this side-plot out of the book, or she could have carried the situation to its conclusion, which would have provided a strong sub-plot to the book.
The modesty tangent was frustrating. In the book, one of the characters is nearly assaulted while exercising. Her love-interest saves her, but then accuses her of inviting the assault by her running attire. She argues with him but then days later concedes that she perhaps she should wear longer shorts and baggy t-shirts. There was another incident where other characters are at church and a child calls out an adult woman for wearing too tight clothes. I found myself scratching my head at these choices in the book. Is it appropriate for other women to bash each other on clothing choices? And there was such an element of judging that another woman might not be righteous if her clothing didn't meet the other character's idea of modesty. Don't get me wrong, I definitely believe in modesty, but I don't think it should be used as a yardstick to determine the righteousness or motives of other people. And I certainly don't think that women should be calling out other women on their clothing. The assault incident was also troubling. I'm fully aware of the problem that many people think that women's clothing invites men to assault them. I think that is wrong. It seemed like the author was trying to say something about that. But she seemed to completely change her stance when she had her character concede that she should wear longer shorts and a baggier t-shirt. Having lived in a place where women wore long black robes and veils over their faces and were still assaulted, this logic doesn't ring true to me.
Perhaps this was an earlier book of the author and hopefully she is improving. I will probably try another book. I can recommend this book to people who don't care about plot continuity and don't want to think too deeply about what they are reading and want something clean and light.
February 10, 2013
In full disclosure, I have met this author and like her very much. This was her first published book. Christian Fiction is not a genre that I normally read. That said, I want to talk about the things that make Checketts an author to watch. She puts together a first chapter that grabs you. Her characters are very likable. They aren't perfect but their flaws are human ones and make it easy to relate to them. Her writing style is appealing. She writes a page turner. At the same time, I have a hard time believing that the FBI spends a lot of time talking about God and praying. I resent the idea that only Christians have valid religious beliefs. I have no problem with someone not wanting to marry outside of their religion - marriage is hard enough - but when the main characters were talking about religion, he certainly wasn't saying he was Jewish, Muslim or Hindu. He just wasn't her flavor of Christian. I also would have fired the main character and had him arrested for sharing sensitive information - he was FBI - and he shared information with a civilian. That's practically treason. But this was her first book. I have no doubt she has tightened up her prose.
July 7, 2013
I download a lot of samples via Amazon but don't often buy. The first chapter of this book was so interesting that I purchased it. The plot had potential but there were major weak points that made this book hard to finish. The romance was built on strong physical attraction between two FBI agents with perfect bodies, with two different world-views. The message came through , with the sister's failed marriage as proof, that you can disregard the Bible's instruction about marrying a nonbeliever - that you should just marry someone who makes you happy and will treat you right because its hard to tell if someone really is a Christian or not. But in the end he prays and discovers he was really a believer all along. To sum up why I didn't like this book: The characters did not have my respect (other than being American FBI agents). The lesson I learned was: "You can't judge a book by its first chapter!" I think I'll stick to finding new authors by reading free ebooks, then purchasing more once I know the style of the author. I do think that the plots of this author (all of her books have interesting & intense first chapters) have a unique niche in the Christian fiction genre.
June 29, 2018
I enjoyed this fast-paced story and was surprised by some of the elements that drew me in. I chose it this week for the title. looking for something patriotic. However, due to the theme of terrorism, I am now not sure I want to join any large crowds to celebrate the fourth this year. I was impressed by how religion was discussed in the story. It was not overbearing, but realistic. Characters struggled with the role of religion in their lives and how it affects their interactions with others. There were some great secondary stories happening as well. I am wondering if the author has a follow-up story about Officer Luke Johnson. He seems like a great guy who needs his own story. The action at the end of the story seemed a bit unrealistic to me, but I loved the characters and how their stories resolved.
June 11, 2023
Couldn't Finish
The conversations. Who talks like these people? AR man assaults a woman, then she and rescuer leave the man for the police to find? Who does that? Fictional characters need some relationship to real people...
The conversations. Who talks like these people? AR man assaults a woman, then she and rescuer leave the man for the police to find? Who does that? Fictional characters need some relationship to real people...
June 24, 2025
I chose this book for a holiday challenge and had no expectations going in. I really enjoyed it! Great chemistry, suspense, dialogue, and side characters. The end of the book had a preview for another of Cami's books and now I'm hooked on that one.
October 31, 2017
This was a great read.
July 5, 2018
Great book
This is a great inspirational book I hope y’all enjoy reading it. Keep up the good work with your inspirational stories.
This is a great inspirational book I hope y’all enjoy reading it. Keep up the good work with your inspirational stories.
July 9, 2020
This started out OK, but I did not realise it was Christian fiction. I would never have bought the book if I had known. Not my cup of tea, so I gave up half way through.
September 23, 2020
Review of Fourth of July
This was a very good book and I will recommend her books to anyone who loves romance novels. She is a wonderful writer.
This was a very good book and I will recommend her books to anyone who loves romance novels. She is a wonderful writer.
February 10, 2021
After 9-11 we all seem o wait r the next shoe to drop. This is told from a personal view point and well cone.
April 2, 2021
This action packed FBI romance is fast paced and so suspenseful. The characters are wonderful and I really liked their growth during the story.
July 15, 2021
Really good read
Action, romance and faith, what more could you want in a book. I couldn't put I down. Cami did it again.
Action, romance and faith, what more could you want in a book. I couldn't put I down. Cami did it again.
July 12, 2021
My #1
In my opinion The Fourth of July is Cami's best! It's filled with suspense, best friends, and love! I couldn't wait to read what happened next! Enjoy!!!
In my opinion The Fourth of July is Cami's best! It's filled with suspense, best friends, and love! I couldn't wait to read what happened next! Enjoy!!!
July 22, 2015
Forth of July
I enjoyed the storyline of this book and the characters. I liked that it showed a faith in God. I am not LDS so I was glad that belief system wasn't brought out. I liked that Chris was able to work out his anger at the Lord. A good read with suspense and romance and some humor. Not overly preachy which is good. God loves us all beyond what we understand. He gave Jesus to us to show His love. I would recomend this book. I may read more by this author. It is always a little humorous to me when people use King James English when they pray. I know the good Lord doesn't care one way or the other. By the way this does have some violence but not too graffic it does deal with terrorism after all. No bad language or overly sexual writing for those who want to know that about a book. Enjoy the read and the characters.
I enjoyed the storyline of this book and the characters. I liked that it showed a faith in God. I am not LDS so I was glad that belief system wasn't brought out. I liked that Chris was able to work out his anger at the Lord. A good read with suspense and romance and some humor. Not overly preachy which is good. God loves us all beyond what we understand. He gave Jesus to us to show His love. I would recomend this book. I may read more by this author. It is always a little humorous to me when people use King James English when they pray. I know the good Lord doesn't care one way or the other. By the way this does have some violence but not too graffic it does deal with terrorism after all. No bad language or overly sexual writing for those who want to know that about a book. Enjoy the read and the characters.
October 31, 2014
Lots of action
The terrorist action was very realistic. The interaction between the sisters did not add much to the story or was not developed enough to hold interest. The kidnappings were well written and the tension was well maintained. There were a slow section or two. Perhaps the religion was heavy handed at times. I hope in real life the different police agencies can give more support and security to the families of the agents. A few writing errors noted but very good for the greater part.
The terrorist action was very realistic. The interaction between the sisters did not add much to the story or was not developed enough to hold interest. The kidnappings were well written and the tension was well maintained. There were a slow section or two. Perhaps the religion was heavy handed at times. I hope in real life the different police agencies can give more support and security to the families of the agents. A few writing errors noted but very good for the greater part.
July 9, 2021
Fantastic story!
I loved every minute! There was romance and suspense. The characters were fantastic. This would make a great movie! Love all Cami's books.
I loved every minute! There was romance and suspense. The characters were fantastic. This would make a great movie! Love all Cami's books.
April 18, 2014
Brace yourself for quite an exciting story, in which one girl finds herself questioning if she should continue to see a handsome FBI agent due to faith differences. On the 4th of July there are bombings at parades in many cities and the FBI has the task of solving the horrible crime. FBI agents have love lives, and families too! I enjoyed this story and the personal struggle of Alexis. If you like a lot of action, and good clean romance this is a wonderful read!
April 2, 2015
Fourth of July
From start to finish I could hardly put the book down. I was raised in the D.C. area and know people who work in law enforcement, so this book was very real to me. Like Chris I've know people who were hurt and blamed God, also like Chris they were miserable until they got there relationship right with God. The story was exciting all the way through. The story helps us to remember to bath our loves ones, law enforcement, and country in PRAYER!
From start to finish I could hardly put the book down. I was raised in the D.C. area and know people who work in law enforcement, so this book was very real to me. Like Chris I've know people who were hurt and blamed God, also like Chris they were miserable until they got there relationship right with God. The story was exciting all the way through. The story helps us to remember to bath our loves ones, law enforcement, and country in PRAYER!
July 9, 2015
You may not want to read this July 2, though. Realistic and timely.
I really enjoyed this book. Although I began it on July 2. With all the news that ISIS might pull something July 4. Let's just say that I no longer had a desire to attend a parade. Or a big fireworks display. We went to a drive in movie at a church, where we could still see fireworks from two separate venues. This is a realistic and timely book.
I really enjoyed this book. Although I began it on July 2. With all the news that ISIS might pull something July 4. Let's just say that I no longer had a desire to attend a parade. Or a big fireworks display. We went to a drive in movie at a church, where we could still see fireworks from two separate venues. This is a realistic and timely book.
August 6, 2015
This is the first book I've read by Cami Checketts. It is a suspenseful/thriller type story with some clean romance as well. I liked the plot, characters and pacing. Overall, I really liked the book. I didn't realize, however, that this was a Christian book. It had some heavy Christian themes in it, which is okay, but they tend to get a little preachy which I don't particularly like. That's my only complaint, though.
February 13, 2016
Christian romantic suspense
The opening starts off with a boom and drama is present throughout the book. The book is very patriotic and interesting. A few grammatical errors but we'll written.
The opening starts off with a boom and drama is present throughout the book. The book is very patriotic and interesting. A few grammatical errors but we'll written.
April 7, 2016
Moved Too Slowly
I quit reading at 43% (on my Kindle.) It just didn't keep my attention. It had the makings of a heart-pounding, edge of your seat, suspenseful romance but just didn't deliver.
I quit reading at 43% (on my Kindle.) It just didn't keep my attention. It had the makings of a heart-pounding, edge of your seat, suspenseful romance but just didn't deliver.
February 3, 2021
Lovers and Terrorists
Cami Checketts, you have reminded us of the constant possibilities of undercover terrorists. Yet, you show us a great God through your resurrected novel. Moving, well written romance with realistic characters.
Cami Checketts, you have reminded us of the constant possibilities of undercover terrorists. Yet, you show us a great God through your resurrected novel. Moving, well written romance with realistic characters.
April 21, 2008
Cami is one of my good friends and this is her first one to be published, I think she did a great job.
November 18, 2014
very good
June 30, 2015
This book was okay, but something about it kept me from fully engaging with the story. I did like the characters though.
Content: some violence
Content: some violence
July 19, 2015
This is my favorite book by Cami Checketts, and I've read just about all of them! There was great mystery/suspense mixed with some romance so it was a great story! I'd highly recommend to others!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews