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Brand of Justice #5
Skin and Bone
Dark secrets in northern Washington.
Kenna is only slightly hiding from testifying in federal hearings about her actions in Las Vegas when a routine stakeout yields a mysterious invitation—and a startling connection to a case her father worked in his FBI days. Driven by her curiosity and a desire to reconcile her father’s past, Kenna explores the derelict compound where Malcom Banbury rescued a group of children from a deadly cult. While there, Kenna encounters a couple of trespassing teens. One is injured, and the other disappears, making it seem like the Children of the Morning might not be as dead as everyone thinks.
Yet, Kenna is not alone in her quest.
Even with Jax occupied by his duties in D.C. assisting the Department of Justice in closing the Rushman case, Kenna finds herself surrounded by allies in unexpected places. Plus she’s got Maizie and Stairns, with their unique expertise, to help her figure out exactly what is happening—though not before things quickly become deadly. As a hidden group relentlessly pursues the child under Kenna’s protection, driven by insidious motives, she knows one thing for sure…
Her brand of justice is the only way to end this.
*Christian thriller
Kenna is only slightly hiding from testifying in federal hearings about her actions in Las Vegas when a routine stakeout yields a mysterious invitation—and a startling connection to a case her father worked in his FBI days. Driven by her curiosity and a desire to reconcile her father’s past, Kenna explores the derelict compound where Malcom Banbury rescued a group of children from a deadly cult. While there, Kenna encounters a couple of trespassing teens. One is injured, and the other disappears, making it seem like the Children of the Morning might not be as dead as everyone thinks.
Yet, Kenna is not alone in her quest.
Even with Jax occupied by his duties in D.C. assisting the Department of Justice in closing the Rushman case, Kenna finds herself surrounded by allies in unexpected places. Plus she’s got Maizie and Stairns, with their unique expertise, to help her figure out exactly what is happening—though not before things quickly become deadly. As a hidden group relentlessly pursues the child under Kenna’s protection, driven by insidious motives, she knows one thing for sure…
Her brand of justice is the only way to end this.
*Christian thriller
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 8, 2023
335 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Phillips
167 books872 followersLisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 80 books that span Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.
Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Lisa is a worship leader, tea aficionado, and dog lover of two crazy Airedales.
Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Lisa is a worship leader, tea aficionado, and dog lover of two crazy Airedales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 14, 2023
I enjoyed reading this book. It was hard to put down! I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
August 1, 2023
Wow, this was a fantastic read! I typically love Lisa Phillips books and she does a great job of creating a story universe for a series. Her books normally cover one couple as the main protagonists with other characters (typically from other books) woven throughout the stories and I have enjoyed that format in other series. In the Brand of Justice series, the main protagonist is Kenna Banbury. Phillips has proven she can write the same main character through multiple books and keep their story compelling; Kenna is a complex character who continues to grow and evolve in a fascinating manner.
There was a ton to love about this book. In this book, you see Kenna start to walk in her growth past certain traumatic events and in her relationships with those closest to her. The dynamic between Kenna and Maizie is fun and heartwarming. The interplay between Jax and Kenna is humorous and sweet. Watching how Stairns and Kenna are working out their new working relationship is enjoyable. One of the most fascinating aspects is the relationship between Kenna and her dead father, Malcolm Banbury. Kenna, once again, has been left wondering whether she really knows her father as well as she thought she did as she learns additional information about him as an FBI agent. She questions her understanding of who he was and what motivated him as she recognizes her knowledge is based on her perception of events as a child and teenager.
Besides the great character development and relationships, the action continues to move at a steady clip. The series arc continues with this book, but there’s also a story within the story in this latest installment. In addition to the expected suspense, there are elements of mystery as to who is behind the shenanigans with the Child of the Morning and there are the expected (unexpected) twists and turns. This book will keep you turning the pages as you try to figure out how certain pieces fit together both in the series arc and within this book’s storyline.
Honestly, in my opinion, this series just keeps getting better and better… when you finish this one, you’re really, really going to want to immediately pick up the next one. If you haven’t yet read any of the Brand of Justice books, I do recommend starting with “Cold Dead Night” before moving on to the others as the books do build upon each other.
The author did send me this book for review consideration but all opinions are my own. I did not promise to write a positive review in return for the copy of the book, nor would I ever make such a commitment.
There was a ton to love about this book. In this book, you see Kenna start to walk in her growth past certain traumatic events and in her relationships with those closest to her. The dynamic between Kenna and Maizie is fun and heartwarming. The interplay between Jax and Kenna is humorous and sweet. Watching how Stairns and Kenna are working out their new working relationship is enjoyable. One of the most fascinating aspects is the relationship between Kenna and her dead father, Malcolm Banbury. Kenna, once again, has been left wondering whether she really knows her father as well as she thought she did as she learns additional information about him as an FBI agent. She questions her understanding of who he was and what motivated him as she recognizes her knowledge is based on her perception of events as a child and teenager.
Besides the great character development and relationships, the action continues to move at a steady clip. The series arc continues with this book, but there’s also a story within the story in this latest installment. In addition to the expected suspense, there are elements of mystery as to who is behind the shenanigans with the Child of the Morning and there are the expected (unexpected) twists and turns. This book will keep you turning the pages as you try to figure out how certain pieces fit together both in the series arc and within this book’s storyline.
Honestly, in my opinion, this series just keeps getting better and better… when you finish this one, you’re really, really going to want to immediately pick up the next one. If you haven’t yet read any of the Brand of Justice books, I do recommend starting with “Cold Dead Night” before moving on to the others as the books do build upon each other.
The author did send me this book for review consideration but all opinions are my own. I did not promise to write a positive review in return for the copy of the book, nor would I ever make such a commitment.
June 17, 2023
This series just gets better and better. In this fifth installment, Kenna finds herself in another case with ties to the past involving her father. Her father was part of a FBI team that brought down a cult and rescued the children trapped in the cult years ago. Now the Children of the Morning is coming back into power, and it's Kenna's turn to stop the cult once and all.
Skin and Bone is a page turning thriller that is action-packed with some unexpected twists and a cliffhanger at the end of the book. A familiar character from a previous book in this series shows up in this latest installment.
I love how Lisa Phillips doesn't rush Kenna into becoming a Christian immediately in this series but rather she's learning and finding out Who God is. Ryson is a new Christian, and his advice to her about peace being a fruit of the Spirit is a golden nugget of wisdom.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Skin and Bone is a page turning thriller that is action-packed with some unexpected twists and a cliffhanger at the end of the book. A familiar character from a previous book in this series shows up in this latest installment.
I love how Lisa Phillips doesn't rush Kenna into becoming a Christian immediately in this series but rather she's learning and finding out Who God is. Ryson is a new Christian, and his advice to her about peace being a fruit of the Spirit is a golden nugget of wisdom.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 15, 2023
Author Lisa Phillips opened the book Skin and Bone with action that ensured the reader of a nonstop ride. From the very first page, Kenna, a private investigator that was supported by Maizey with an earbud connecting them, knew what she had to do to get the information that she wanted. Even if that information came at a price of preventing a crime, or solving it, she tried to do what she had to do without giving out vital information. Kenna knew she had an FBI-sized target on her back, yet, her interests were best focused on her sidekick, Maizey, and keeping her safe.
As Kenna tried to locate a con-man, danger kept finding her. As she located a town where her father had once intervened and supposedly shut-down a cult, Kenna found all sorts of dangers waiting wherever she went. Even as she enlisted the help of a retired Chief of Police, a Detective, and eventually, the current Chief of Police, she had her work cut out for her. This town had history for her, linked to her father. A man that she knew loved her, yet she never knew the multi-faceted aspects of him due to his death. At least, he had not died because of his job – that meant something to her.
It seemed as I read through the book, Kenna used every tool, trick of the trade, research provided by Maizey, and every brain cell that she had, to find the link to the Children of the Morning. People kept disappearing, murders occurred, kids kept being kidnapped and the threat level kept rising. It seemed that in every scene, Phillips drew the reader into the danger, luring them into the tangled web of death, deceit, and mayhem. That road, eventually, became the road well-travelled.
As Skin and Bone had captured me from the very first page, I realized that there was no way that this book would let me go easily. Phillips did not disappoint me with her ending – in fact, there were more questions than ever and no answers to be found. The author gave me a free copy of this book and without compensation, asked me for my honest opinion of this book. In all honesty, I loved this book filled with mayhem, murder, faith and the hope to be found in telling the truth. I believe Phillips delivered on all aspects of this, continuing to meet her readers’ expectations! I give this book a 10+ -- for every word written, every action those words represented, and every possibility that the future holds. Thank you, Ms. Phillips for an outstanding adventure ride!
As Kenna tried to locate a con-man, danger kept finding her. As she located a town where her father had once intervened and supposedly shut-down a cult, Kenna found all sorts of dangers waiting wherever she went. Even as she enlisted the help of a retired Chief of Police, a Detective, and eventually, the current Chief of Police, she had her work cut out for her. This town had history for her, linked to her father. A man that she knew loved her, yet she never knew the multi-faceted aspects of him due to his death. At least, he had not died because of his job – that meant something to her.
It seemed as I read through the book, Kenna used every tool, trick of the trade, research provided by Maizey, and every brain cell that she had, to find the link to the Children of the Morning. People kept disappearing, murders occurred, kids kept being kidnapped and the threat level kept rising. It seemed that in every scene, Phillips drew the reader into the danger, luring them into the tangled web of death, deceit, and mayhem. That road, eventually, became the road well-travelled.
As Skin and Bone had captured me from the very first page, I realized that there was no way that this book would let me go easily. Phillips did not disappoint me with her ending – in fact, there were more questions than ever and no answers to be found. The author gave me a free copy of this book and without compensation, asked me for my honest opinion of this book. In all honesty, I loved this book filled with mayhem, murder, faith and the hope to be found in telling the truth. I believe Phillips delivered on all aspects of this, continuing to meet her readers’ expectations! I give this book a 10+ -- for every word written, every action those words represented, and every possibility that the future holds. Thank you, Ms. Phillips for an outstanding adventure ride!
February 27, 2024
What an Amazing Series!!
I'm so excited I found Ms. Phillips books, everyone I've read has pulled me in from the first page. Her talent for suspense is what has kept me coming back!
This series with Kenna Bradbury keeps getting more enthralling with each book. I've found myself cheering her on more than once and this book had me holding my breathe waiting to see how she was going to survive. I really love how she is beginning to expand her faith and realize much she needs the Lord.
What an excellent read this was and well worth the time spent on the edge of my seat, hurriedly flipping pages!! Thank you Ms. Phillips for a job well done!!
I believe I hear Kenna whispering my name from my kindle, taunting me to start our next adventure , I think she and Jax might already be in trouble!!
I'm so excited I found Ms. Phillips books, everyone I've read has pulled me in from the first page. Her talent for suspense is what has kept me coming back!
This series with Kenna Bradbury keeps getting more enthralling with each book. I've found myself cheering her on more than once and this book had me holding my breathe waiting to see how she was going to survive. I really love how she is beginning to expand her faith and realize much she needs the Lord.
What an excellent read this was and well worth the time spent on the edge of my seat, hurriedly flipping pages!! Thank you Ms. Phillips for a job well done!!
I believe I hear Kenna whispering my name from my kindle, taunting me to start our next adventure , I think she and Jax might already be in trouble!!
October 2, 2023
In the middle
I did not realize this book was the 5th of a series but I thought it wouldn't matter that much. However, I was lost all the way through and could not get a grip on the characters & storyline. Apparently each book is a cliffhanger (at least this one was) and I'm not fond of that format. Once into this story of a deep seated cult in upstate Washington, it was quite riveting. Now they are captive in some foreign country. I must decide whether to buy another book or wonder forever what happens next.i do recommend the book but a big caveats would read the series in order.
I did not realize this book was the 5th of a series but I thought it wouldn't matter that much. However, I was lost all the way through and could not get a grip on the characters & storyline. Apparently each book is a cliffhanger (at least this one was) and I'm not fond of that format. Once into this story of a deep seated cult in upstate Washington, it was quite riveting. Now they are captive in some foreign country. I must decide whether to buy another book or wonder forever what happens next.i do recommend the book but a big caveats would read the series in order.
August 8, 2023
I wasn't entirely sure I would like this series when I read the first one, but I am glad I stuck with the series. It just keeps getting better and better.
And this one is the best so far....or it seems to be.
Cults interest me - no, not joining one! - and Phllips did a great job creating a story around one in this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat, and I did not want to put it down.
The only bad thing about the book....its cliffhanger ending. And I have to wait til October to see what happens. Ugh.
Definitely recommend this series.
Read it in order :)
And this one is the best so far....or it seems to be.
Cults interest me - no, not joining one! - and Phllips did a great job creating a story around one in this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat, and I did not want to put it down.
The only bad thing about the book....its cliffhanger ending. And I have to wait til October to see what happens. Ugh.
Definitely recommend this series.
Read it in order :)
August 19, 2023
Suspenseful, romance, thrills, edge of your seat!
This series of books have been amazing. I love the little bit of romance that is in here. Most of all the suspense, the building of relationships, not just between people but between Kenna and God. I am sad that I cannot read the next story cuz it's not out yet, lol. This book truly touches on what it takes to build a relationship with Jesus. Some people think it's an overnight sensation. It's actually a lifetime commitment and learning. Thankful for this author and her real life happenings that shows up in this book.
This series of books have been amazing. I love the little bit of romance that is in here. Most of all the suspense, the building of relationships, not just between people but between Kenna and God. I am sad that I cannot read the next story cuz it's not out yet, lol. This book truly touches on what it takes to build a relationship with Jesus. Some people think it's an overnight sensation. It's actually a lifetime commitment and learning. Thankful for this author and her real life happenings that shows up in this book.
September 1, 2023
Superb!!!
“Brand of Justice” is the best series Lisa Phillips has ever written, and I’ve read them all.
These characters are alive. I love seeing a protagonist who is actually struggling with her faith in God during these evil times. We all struggle, and Kenna is the kind of honest heroine that puts all her cards on the table and tells us about her struggles, too.
Her struggles in “Skin and Bone” were mammoth, but she digs in and, with the help of her “family” takes on another case that’s way too complex.
“Brand of Justice” is the best series Lisa Phillips has ever written, and I’ve read them all.
These characters are alive. I love seeing a protagonist who is actually struggling with her faith in God during these evil times. We all struggle, and Kenna is the kind of honest heroine that puts all her cards on the table and tells us about her struggles, too.
Her struggles in “Skin and Bone” were mammoth, but she digs in and, with the help of her “family” takes on another case that’s way too complex.
June 27, 2025
Thinking Dad had taken care of the cult only to realize it is born again.
Again, great read you just can't put down. What a !mystery to unravel. Very little help trying to solve the kidnapping of Elijah and finding the person responsible throws her right in the mix. People start to die and trying to get to the bottom of it makes her just more desperate. Seeking help is hard but she does get e friend of her father's and a bounty hunter into the loop. It gets deep and hard to find answers all the way to the end. Just never give up. Hi
Again, great read you just can't put down. What a !mystery to unravel. Very little help trying to solve the kidnapping of Elijah and finding the person responsible throws her right in the mix. People start to die and trying to get to the bottom of it makes her just more desperate. Seeking help is hard but she does get e friend of her father's and a bounty hunter into the loop. It gets deep and hard to find answers all the way to the end. Just never give up. Hi
September 24, 2025
Cults are creepy. I think I’d rather face a serial killer than a cult. And when a cult goes from abusing members to threatening the public? That’s a whole new level of disturbing.
And exactly what we get in this book.
The action is, as always, on point. There are some atmospheric moments that will make you shiver. And I’m happy to see Kenna is finally showing some growth as a character. Throw in some favorite returning characters, a cameo from someone who steals every scene, and a cast of interesting townsfolk, and this one is arguably the best of the series.
And exactly what we get in this book.
The action is, as always, on point. There are some atmospheric moments that will make you shiver. And I’m happy to see Kenna is finally showing some growth as a character. Throw in some favorite returning characters, a cameo from someone who steals every scene, and a cast of interesting townsfolk, and this one is arguably the best of the series.
August 19, 2023
I don't hand out five-star reviews often, even with favorite authors, but this installment in Brand of Justice is a winner. The character development of Kenna is fantastic. Her struggles with who she is and how people and God fit into her life are very real. Near the end of the book I was thinking, "Oh, good! Now Kenna can relax a little." Not a chance. I really hope the next book is being released soon!
September 21, 2023
Buckle up!
Buckle up for another exciting ride with Kenna! It will grab you from the first page and leave you gasping for air as you navigate your way through this new adventure. Surprising twists and visits from old friends accompany Kenna as she continues her journey of championing and rescuing the vulnerable and lonely souls that cross her path. Can’t wait for the next installment!
Buckle up for another exciting ride with Kenna! It will grab you from the first page and leave you gasping for air as you navigate your way through this new adventure. Surprising twists and visits from old friends accompany Kenna as she continues her journey of championing and rescuing the vulnerable and lonely souls that cross her path. Can’t wait for the next installment!
November 25, 2024
The Kenna saga continues! Suddenly embroiled with a past acquaintance - Dixie Cabrera - Kenna finds herself looking for a missing teen. The Child of the Morning cult has been resurrected and the sinister implications have Kenna baffled. Who is behind this deadly cult and why are people disappearing? Can a retired police chief and a mousey school teacher help her solve this mystery before it's too late?
September 18, 2023
I really enjoyed this story! I think this is the best one of the series. Kenna is back in the saddle with her "team" and everything that I already loved about this series. The faith conversations really had me thinking, and the entire conversation about peace really resonated with me. The cliff hanger killed me though. Can't wait for the next book!
December 30, 2023
Wow! Wow! Wow!
Wow! That's about all I can say except what a rollercoaster ride! This has more twists and turns than you believe! I pretty much read this straight through stopping only to fix dinner and read all night long. Definitely Ms Philips' best in this series. On my way to the next one!
Wow! That's about all I can say except what a rollercoaster ride! This has more twists and turns than you believe! I pretty much read this straight through stopping only to fix dinner and read all night long. Definitely Ms Philips' best in this series. On my way to the next one!
August 19, 2024
great book with cliff hangar
I love this series. The characters grow and learn. Try new things. This book in particular pulls you into the story. Who was in the cult? Who is in it now? So many questions. New friends for Kenna. I wasn’t super fond of the cliff hangar but since I have the next book I am confident all will work out.
I love this series. The characters grow and learn. Try new things. This book in particular pulls you into the story. Who was in the cult? Who is in it now? So many questions. New friends for Kenna. I wasn’t super fond of the cliff hangar but since I have the next book I am confident all will work out.
August 13, 2023
this is another good story. kenna is still looking for the person that took her fathers paper. she finds him but also finds trouble. someone is after her and the police are not helping . if you like suspense and intrigue you will want to read the book very good looking forward to the next book
August 15, 2023
I love Kenna! She's not your perfect put-together heroine with all the answers. She has physical, mental and emotional scars and she's struggling to trust God...kinda like we all are. This is a wonderful book!
August 29, 2023
Wild ride continues
Terrific series if you like suspense. Sad part is most of this is not fiction. I am happy to see growth in Kenna as far as healing goes. One must hope for healing when it comes to trauma. I’m addicted.
Terrific series if you like suspense. Sad part is most of this is not fiction. I am happy to see growth in Kenna as far as healing goes. One must hope for healing when it comes to trauma. I’m addicted.
August 30, 2023
Great book!!!
This is the best of the series yet i think. So much mystery and intrigue, kept me reading to find out more. I like that Kenna & Jax are finally having a somewhat real relationship. The ending is a real kicker!
Can't what for the next one!!!
This is the best of the series yet i think. So much mystery and intrigue, kept me reading to find out more. I like that Kenna & Jax are finally having a somewhat real relationship. The ending is a real kicker!
Can't what for the next one!!!
September 2, 2023
Holy Cow!!
Amazing…as I knew it would be! It was great to see Dixie again, this time in her new family life. Truly a great read, I highly recommend it. Kenna Banbury is right on the heels of Jamie Austin! (I.e. these books are in my top 20% and will interrupt the other 80, lol!)
Amazing…as I knew it would be! It was great to see Dixie again, this time in her new family life. Truly a great read, I highly recommend it. Kenna Banbury is right on the heels of Jamie Austin! (I.e. these books are in my top 20% and will interrupt the other 80, lol!)
September 7, 2024
These stories are well-written and keep your attention. I did feel that a few characters should not have been killed. Their living would not have changed the storyline at all. I did see one typo: on page 378 Elaine is written Elain.
September 26, 2024
you got me
I’ve read all the books in this series so far. I am hooked. This is “Good writing, God involved, the corruption of the world, ridding the world of evil and corruption.” Good job Lisa
I’ve read all the books in this series so far. I am hooked. This is “Good writing, God involved, the corruption of the world, ridding the world of evil and corruption.” Good job Lisa
November 3, 2024
Kenna winds up in yet another town where her dad made a mark. There’s many moving parts in this case/cases she takes on. Kenna also, delves more in her seeking The Lord. In so doing, she decides to testify in the Rushman case. But, boy oh boy are we left with a cliffhanger.
December 28, 2024
Wow!
Buckle up and hold on for a fast paced twisting read with Kenna. Wanted by the FBI for questioning in the FBI director's death, Kenna is following a lead that is connected to her father and another case. Couldn't put it down!
Buckle up and hold on for a fast paced twisting read with Kenna. Wanted by the FBI for questioning in the FBI director's death, Kenna is following a lead that is connected to her father and another case. Couldn't put it down!
February 28, 2025
you never know!
Lisa leaves you guessing! What an incredible storyteller! Maybe she does leave cliffhangers, but, it is definitely worth the read! You won’t regret reading this series!
Lisa leaves you guessing! What an incredible storyteller! Maybe she does leave cliffhangers, but, it is definitely worth the read! You won’t regret reading this series!
June 1, 2025
I loved this book. At least some of the people ended still alive this time. It was action-packed, and I did guess the caretaker. But, it was a good episode in the series. However, I hate cliffhangers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2025
Skin and Bone
A brilliant. Story. Every case Kenna goes on, she finds way to get through all the hardships she goes through. You can only admire who she is and what she stands for. Amazing storyline and wonderful characters. I look forward to her next journey.
A brilliant. Story. Every case Kenna goes on, she finds way to get through all the hardships she goes through. You can only admire who she is and what she stands for. Amazing storyline and wonderful characters. I look forward to her next journey.
August 9, 2023
This was so hard to put down! Kept me up all night!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews