Justified Means

The Agency Files #1

by Chautona Havig

The Agency Files:

Whatever it takes: the motto of “The Agency.” It doesn’t exist–not legally speaking. However its effect in the lives of those who benefit from their aid is incalculable. Lives saved, restored, guarded–protected from the side of life most never see. Their clients are usually wealthy, important–desperate. Their other clients–well, they don’t always appreciate the efforts expended on their behalf–not until they aren’t lying on a slab in the morgue.


Justified Means~

Erika Polowski, in grave danger–danger she has no idea exists,finds herself captive, shackled, bound, gagged. Her captors have the most unbelievable story, yet as the enemy manages, time after time, to get too close, she has to decide who or what to trust. Can she believe the man who daily holds her at gunpoint? Does she trust her gut? She is certain that she knows nothing that could possibly matter to anyone–has done nothing that should put her in danger.

For Keith Auger, it’s just another assignment. Extract the client, protect the client, return the client to her life with minimal interruption. Except that this “client” isn’t so keen on being protected. His usual cheerful demeanor disappeared the night he helped her escape from her home–escape with the aid of duct tape, rope, and the dark of night.

His faith seems incongruous with his job. Her feisty personality might just keep her alive–if he can’t. How long can they stay one step ahead of their pursuers? How long can he protect her when every move they make seems only half a step behind those who want Erika dead. Why can’t they get a break?

The only answer is the one thing that he fears most. Is there a mole within The Agency?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Suspense, Mystery, Fiction, Christian, Contemporary, Romance

272 pages, ebook

First published January 7, 2013

About the author

**fingers skittle across the keyboard. Stop. Eyelids blink over the top**

Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.

Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25

Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.

They’re for you.

When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.

Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.

And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”

Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.

But I do.

And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!

And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.

I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.

Reviews

[Amanda Tero · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love exploring different authors and their approach to complex mysteries, and though I've read Chautona Havig in the past, I hadn't tried any of her suspenses.

This one didn't disappoint.

First off, who kidnaps to protect? Yes, that whole concept started this book off with an intriguing scenario. It did take me about a chapter to get into the story and used to the author's style and sometimes the writing style pulled me away from the story, but the story had so many twists and turns, I almost felt like the characters in that I never knew what to expect next. Personally, I thought the ending was semi anti-climatical in that their suspicions panned out and things concluded like they planned, but it was very well wrapped up. 

I did really like both Keith and Erika. I felt like Keith was a solid Christian character and Erika was a solid unbeliever. I still stand by my preference against Christians dating unbelievers, even in fiction, so we'll see when I get to the rest of the series. I wouldn't say there was actually much romance in this book, more the starting chemistry of it.

The Christian themes in this book seem to be primarily how a Christian's speech should be different than an unbeliever's and the importance of a Christian's testimony by their life. There were a couple of strands (as well as characters) that were left hanging that I'm hoping would be resolved in the remainder of the series.

I wouldn't personally recommend this for conservative teen readers as there are some crude/more mature comments throughout the book, though nothing explicit is shown. 

*I received this book from the author and happily provided my honest review*

[Rebekah Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm torn between 3.5 stars and 4 stars. I guess I'll leave it at 4.

I went into this book warily since it's not the kind of book I normally read. However, I was pulled into the story from the start and found myself not just tolerating it, but actually enjoying it. There was plenty of action, excitement, and danger, but it wasn't creepy and didn't make me too nervous. (Both pluses in my opinion.) And I was so glad the "bad guy" wasn't who it could have been!

For some reason, I never could picture Erika as having short spiked hair, but otherwise her character was well done. The confusion, the anger–all were woven in with a skeptical outlook on Christians in general.
I liked Keith, but I wanted more depth to him. More real life for his Christian walk. His coworkers all say he's a strong Christian but I didn't get that feel. No, he didn't like women swearing, and he read his Bible some, but he didn't seem to spend much time praying for wisdom when things got tough. (And I'm not talking about an hour in prayer when the bad guys are coming, I'm talking about quick prayers as you run, or hide.)
The other characters were great, except the bad ones. (I don't think I was supposed to like them anyway.)

My two complaints:
There were several times when I was jolted in my reading by what seemed to be a lack of information. It was almost as though information had been there and then was cut out because it was too long perhaps, but it was needed. Even just a little something would have helped.
Many times when conversations were going on, there was not "handles" as to who was talking, and it was easy to get confused. That happened especially when another character joined the conversation but you didn't know that until after they had finished talking. I had to go back and reread several sentences trying to figure out what I had missed.

Caution:
This book does mention human trafficking. Not in detail, but it is mentioned.
I would not recommend this to anyone under the age of 18.

Will I read the next book in the series? Probably.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best for Ages 18 and up

This story was really good and very different from everything I have read by Havig up to this point. This book is full of suspense and realistic characters, which is where the warning comes in. The unbelieving characters use bad language (though never written out) and some things they say are crude (though again, other than very minor things it is more implied then written out).

This book kept me on my toes and I very much look forward to the next book.

[Rosy Long · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC

[Kate Willis]

Not what I was expecting and started to drag halfway through.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You’re here. You’re here for your own good. I’m here to protect you. That’s all you need to know.”

Suspense has always been one of the genres that I most enjoy reading, fueled by the first Nancy Drew mystery I picked up in elementary school. After years as an avid reader, it is very difficult for me to find a mystery or thriller that is genuinely different and that I don’t figure out within the first few chapters at most. Not that this inhibits me from reading them, but it does detract a bit from the entertainment factor. However, once in a while I hit literary gold and find a book that offers a new perspective and an intriguing challenge. As such, “Justified Means” by Chautona Havig is one of the most unusual suspense novels that I’ve ever read—and I love it!

From the eye-opening first chapter, this book is one that keeps readers guessing and also intrigued by the novelty of the plot. I can easily envision it as a movie, and it would qualify as action and adventure, drama, mystery, and a whisper of romance in addition to suspense. The story itself is divided into two clear sections in my mind, and this marks the book’s halfway point. Had I not known better, I would have assumed that the narrative was drawing to a close, and I did want it to be over so that a happily-ever-after could happen, but the second half brought more twists. I will say, however, that this story does end, which is always an important factor for me, regardless of genre. In fact, the denouement occurs fairly quickly, but not to such an extent that it seems trivialized.

Havig touches on several current trending topics throughout the pages of “Justified Means”, some in an unconventional way. The plot itself is a kidnapping story, but one that is quickly turned on its head. The idea of a vigilante protection agency is not new, but this approach demonstrates one way in which such an organization might exist and operate. The fact that this is a Christian fiction book makes it all the better because it raises the bar for success higher, and Havig executes this element of the novel thoughtfully and gently, with an empathetic eye toward those who have not been raised in the faith or who are coming to it later in life. Keith is a good role model, but thankfully not to the extent of being impossibly perfect and flawless. I love the author’s description of him: “Rejection of Jesus wounded him, but derision of his faith hardly registered. Christianity wasn’t about him.” As with any good novel, he learns about himself throughout the course of the story, just as Erika’s attitude shifts. She even reminds him, in a dire moment and with a quotation that provides an accurate summation of the Christian faith, that “You have someone, Keith. You’ve got your god. You have to believe he’s watching out for you, or why would you even believe in him? If you need someone to back you up, look there.”

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this series sounded good, and was going to borrow the first one from Kindle Unlimited, and discovered it and the second one were already on my Kindle. I evidently purchased them and read them around 9 years ago.

It had been so long, it was like reading it for the first time. It was an awesome fast paced read that I could not put down, and had me wanting to read more in the series.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The Christian stuff felt completely natural, not forced - the chemistry between the hero and the heroine was sweet and breathless all at the same time - can't wait for the rest of the series to see how it plays out.

[Lila · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had difficulty following who said/did what. At times the plot took too long to move on.

[Bcs (Sarah. B) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

Justified Means by Choutona Havig

Rating: Three point five stars.

Language/Profanity: Nothing but Damn and darn are written out. But the nonbelievers are all said to curse. A lot. The good thing is the main male character did not like it at all. Talking about God flippantly.

Faith: One of the characters is a Christian, and the unbelievers all talk to him about his faith. Talk of how many 'christians' do not live how God tells us to live and how that makes it hard for unbelievers to actually 'take a chance'

Romance/Sex: Slowly growing intrested in each other. There are characters who have crashes on the main male character.

Violence ect.: Low. There is a fight. There is drug use (it had to be done), kidnapped, a woman is thinking about what could happen to her after she was kidnapped.

Other: NA

Part of a Series: Yes. Book one (there is a 0.5 book) in a 5.5 book seres that is complete.


Synopsis:
Justified Means~

Erika Polowski, in grave danger–danger she has no idea exists,finds herself captive, shackled, bound, gagged. Her captors have the most unbelievable story, yet as the enemy manages, time after time, to get too close, she has to decide who or what to trust. Can she believe the man who daily holds her at gunpoint? Does she trust her gut? She is certain that she knows nothing that could possibly matter to anyone–has done nothing that should put her in danger.

For Keith Auger, it’s just another assignment. Extract the client, protect the client, return the client to her life with minimal interruption. Except that this “client” isn’t so keen on being protected. His usual cheerful demeanor disappeared the night he helped her escape from her home–escape with the aid of duct tape, rope, and the dark of night.

His faith seems incongruous with his job. Her feisty personality might just keep her alive–if he can’t. How long can they stay one step ahead of their pursuers? How long can he protect her when every move they make seems only half a step behind those who want Erika dead. Why can’t they get a break?

The only answer is the one thing that he fears most. Is there a mole within The Agency?

Thoughts:
This book was in-between a 'huh' (okay) and a 'nice' (good) book. I think what made it like this for me was because of the fact that there was one Christian in a rather large cast of characters. Which.... is not a problem. At times we will find ourselves being surrounded by people who are not Christians, and who curse and stuff all the time. But. If there are two characters, who become friends and more who are both Christians. That is much nicer in my opinion.
   It was also slightly confusing.
   All that aside. This really was a cool book. I like the idea of the Agency. And protecting people, even if they don't want help.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait to read this book because I love anything suspense, intrigue and adventure stories. The author grabbed my attention right away and I was ready for the ride of twists and turns. It isn’t everyday that Erika finds herself kidnapped, stuffed in a car and whisked off by a stranger. With no explanation she finds herself in a room chained up and staring at a man she has never seen before. I would be shaking from head to toe about right now if I was Erika.

I really loved how the author doesn’t give much of why she is kidnapped and that is what makes the story so intriguing. Can you imagine having your life turned upside down without any idea where you are, or who is behind your kidnapping? I thought that Keith was a great character. His faith is obvious in everything he does or thinks. His mission is to keep Erika safe without giving her much information. I liked the interaction between the two and how at times they almost seem to tolerate each other.

The fact that Erika is in danger doesn’t make any sense to her. She is just another person trying to make a living but someone thinks she has information that could be damaging. The action is non stop as Keith and Erika have to stay one step ahead of whoever is after them. The story is detailed and I enjoyed reading how a secret operation works. Erika is not a believer and at times mocks Keith because he has a relationship with God. No matter what situation they find themselves in, Keith always has a level head and never sways from God. I think Erika was irritated with him at times. What I liked about this story was how Keith was not afraid to stand up for what he believed in and shared his faith with Erika. Even though she resists his faith, he has planted a seed. Sometimes we may not know the outcome of witnessing to someone, but God does.

I was so caught up in the story, I refused to stop reading till the end. Yes the story is that good. It has all the elements of a top notch thriller. The author is versatile in different genres and amazes me at how talented she is. I am thrilled to know that there are more books in this series and will grabbing the next one soon.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Justified Means by author Chautona Havig is a contemporary Christian suspense, crime, action, intrigue novel. Is there anything this author cannot write? She successfully tackles most all genres. This contemporary suspense book was a pleasant, page turning surprise.

This is the story of Erika. She is a barista and manager of a coffee shop as well as a part time house sitter. One day her normal, not so exciting life is turned upside down when she is kidnapped. It is also the story of good guy Keith. He is a Christian with a heart for the underdog. Keith is a hero that wants to help. He is tall, muscular, and handsome. There were a lot of characters to like or dislike.

I was immediately invested in this story. Normally I am not a fan of contemporary fiction, but this one had me turning pages and mesmerized. The plot was interesting and had twists and turns galore. A few times I thought the book was over, and then it would take off in another direction.

Unfortunately, there were a few things that bothered me. The conversations were difficult to follow. Many times I had to reread a section to identify the talker. This happened often. The language bothered me in this book. The use of the coarse word for “passing gas” had me shaking my head. (I was raised that a lady did not say that word.) Other words were left to the imagination, but I didn’t even like that. The last thing is that this had a lot less spiritual and life lessons than I have come to expect in a Chautona Havig book. Some lessons were included in this novel, but not as in depth as her other ones.

I would recommend this, but not to younger readers. There is mention of human trafficking and drugs. I am glad this is part of a series. This book ended without resolution of one thing. It receives a 4 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my true words.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a thoroughly enjoyable and different kind of suspense/thriller, Justified Means might just be what you are searching for. I was giddy with anticipation to read this book, especially since I know that I am in for a truly unique reading experience with author Havig's books. I don't even like to read the blurbs on the backs of her books just because I like the unexpected in the stories.

Here we have an agency that is pretty much in the shadows and the way that they save people is certainly unique. And one Erica Polowski is experiencing just how unique their techniques are. Erica was a character I could certainly understand and relate to. She has been kidnapped, they say for her own good, but can she trust them? And she is angry and confused even frustrated. She is also a smart girl. When it comes down to it, I would have a hard time trusting too, if I were in her position. So she is in quite a conundrum especially when she and the reader are kept very much in the dark and we can only read faster to see how the story unfolding sheds light on the suspense.

Keith Auger, her captor, is a no nonsense guy who loves God (yep he is a Christian in a unique career) and genuinely cares for the people under his "care". I could certainly understand why Erica would be frustrated and angry with him, as I was picking up on those vibes as well. But I liked him and I knew as the story unfolded he was a good guy like he claimed. Would Erica ever understand? I was wondering if I ever would- it was quite a story to wrap your mind around. And yes the Gospel message was there and clear.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Heather Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read a book by Chautona Havig, they just keep getting better and better. The book starts off with quite the entrance and continues to be fast paced until the end. Erika is kidnapped without any explanation than “it is for your own good”. She doesn’t know what to do or whom to trust. As the book continues, she begins to wonder if her nightmare would ever end!

As the reader, you have a hard time putting down the book because there is a new twist at every turn. I felt like the character were realistic and thought out. I felt like Erika would have reacted a little differently when things were revealed. It felt like a conversation here and there would have filled in the reader to understand a little better. For instance, when Claire was suddenly a character in the book, I backtracked to see if I missed something.

I look forward to reading more books in the series, as well as books written by Havig. I felt like she did a great job in this genre. Right when I assumed the book was coming to an end, something else would happen! I did not want to stop reading so I could discover how it would all play out!

I would really recommend reading this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.

[Jennifer J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is a well-paced story that grabs you from the very first paragraph and keeps you wondering along with Erika. Part psychological thriller, part spy drama and full of tension with a highly satisfying ending.

A REAL page-turner that takes the reader on a wild ride trying to figure out the who and why of one woman’s suddenly turned upside-down life. Great characters – the good guys are really good and the bad really bad! The story becomes increasingly plausible as the author provides sufficient breadcrumbs to entice the reader without revealing too much too soon.

The highly prolific and truly talented Chautona Havig has penned another winner in this first of The Agency Files series. Readers of her work have come to expect a high quality of plot, character and setting depth and breadth and this volume does not disappoint. Certainly another 5+ star winner and I’m looking forward to more to come in this series!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.

[Carol Keen · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's not a secret that I like this author's mystery and suspense books. So, how about an agency? Why not, because this author tends to write books that are a bit different. I felt that way about Justified Means. Erika was interesting, spunky, and bold. Being kidnapped for your own good, okay then! Keith was the strongest Christian voice in this story. The pages went by pretty fast as I worked to try to solve this story in advance. I enjoyed the multiple characters, but I was still frustrated by the "ending" which will pick up in the next book in the series. I personally hate cliffhangers and endings that feel too "open" or unfinished. However, I have come to see that as part of the style of this author so I can save up for the rest of the series. Just in this first book, several big decisions had to be made, and I got really involved with how the characters were going to handle the issues being thrown at them. Now, the suspense is, how soon can I read the next book?

Thanks to Celebrate Lit for a copy of this book. This review has my thoughts and opinions of this book, left freely.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Justified Means by Chautona Havig is book one in the Agency Files series. I am a huge fan of this author. She is able to write across many genres. This story is filled with action, suspense, mystery, and a smidge of romance. As always the author has written a unique story. She has written a story an agency that kidnaps people. They go above the laws when it comes to conflicts with God’s laws. Keith and his agency latest assignment is to kidnap and protect Erika Polowski. I loved Keith and how grounded he was in his faith. Erika is feisty and rebellious. She isn’t thrilled with being kidnapped and is trying to find a way to get away from her protectors.
The author has written real feeling characters. She has woven God’s message to all into the story. She has written a unique suspenseful story. I always enjoy the way this author writes. She always drops tidbits along the way. Some are useful, some through you off the path.

I received a copy of this story through the Celebrate Lit blogging program. All thoughts are my own.

[Mary Hake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leave it to Chautona Havig to come up with a wild idea that actually does sound plausible and, obviously, makes for a good story. The Agency’s job is to protect clients who may not even know they’re in danger. How would you feel if one day you wake up to find intruders abducting you from your own home for your own safety? And you simply disappear for a while. That’s what happened to Erika Polowski in the opening scene of this intriguing suspense novel. The quirky characters and the ongoing excitement compel readers to rush through the pages in order to learn what will happen next. And just when you think things are finally wrapping up, the author throws you for a loop and the story gallops away again. It definitely hooked me on the plot, and I’m eager to read the rest in this series. Not only do readers get an entertaining story line, the issues involved bring moral dilemmas to ponder along with the characters. I think a book club would enjoy discussing this dramatic fiction. All opinions are my own.

[Kimmie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever been hooked on a book by the first page?

I was with this book by Chautona Havig. Justified Means was based off the question, what if a company had to kidnap a person to keep them safe without letting them know? Chautona Havig does a fantastic job with this book and answering that question. I loved the action packed chapters, the realistic attitudes of the characters, and the faith based foundation of this book. I loved the characters in Justified Means. They were well crafted, great arcs in their dialogue, and I LOVED how Chautona Havig weaved in the story of redemption. Plus, the overall story and mystery/ suspense was compelling and really fun to read.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars and I am sooo looking forward to reading the next book in the Agency series.

*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honestfeed back. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.

[Mikaylah · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 1/2 Stars...
I was really excited about the book. “Kidnapped for their own good” sounded really cool! It had a good plot and characters, and I didn’t suspect who the bad-guy was. And yes, it did have Christianity in it. (Only one character was Christian, that is) The other characters would start to curse, only to have it cut off (thankfully), but we still knew what they were going to say... and I didn’t like that. Also, there were multiple grammar mistakes... I suppose I’m a nerd about those kinds of things though 😅

And blasted all, the book didn’t “have an ending”! (As I like to call it) The next book doesn’t pick up where the first one left off, so we’re only left to imagine/guess what happens... Which irks me. Lol. Because I really wanted to find out what happened 😔

I did enjoy the read; as it was exciting and adventurous, but I was disappointed how it ended.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Justified Means is the beginning to the Chautona Havig’s series, The Agency Files. This one is a little different than what I am used to from Miss Havig. She has proven time and time again that she has the talent of tackling any genre and this one is no different. Thought it was a good read. It includes a lot I like to read in a book. Which includes: mystery suspense, adventure, danger and action. I enjoyed Erika and Keith’s tale. I was often on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen in the following scenes. So very good.
Justified Means is getting four and a half stars from me. I look forward to the next installment from The Agency Files series, Mismatched. I recommend this one for readers who enjoy reading clean suspense.
I received Justified Means from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading the description of this book had me more than ready to curl up with a warm blankie and dive in. That is just what I did and I was not disappointed in the least. This is a well-written book that pulled me in at page one and I couldn't put it down. The characters were realistic, the plot was great, and it kept me guessing.

I really like that the characters are realistic. They aren't cookie cutter characters or 'perfect' Christians. Not horribly damaged or anything, just real. The Christian aspect isn't forced, but feels natural. There is plenty of conflict on several levels. I just can't wait for the next in this series.

It was a 4/5 for me. I'm ready for the next one.

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Tabitha Bouldin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m kinda in love with these characters. Keith is the no nonsense, get the job done type who knows what he believes in and isn’t afraid to stand up for justice…even though he kidnaps people for a living.

I love that this book travels outside the typical lines of fiction. I never knew what to expect, and that’s part of the beauty.

Erika questions everything, and the conversations between her and Keith were some of my favorite moments. Justified Means has a bit of everything. Mystery. Suspense. Faith. Angry heroines and stoic heros. It’s a wild ride of adventure deeply rooted and grounded in scripture.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some authors create books that must be read, and Chautona Havig writes books like that. Justified Means grabbed my attention from the moment I started reading. The idea of a woman being kidnapped and held against her will demanded I find out the whole story.

Erika cannot comprehend anything that happens to her initially, while Keith’s sole purpose revolves around keeping her safe. The plotline kept my attention and moved along at an excellent pace. The characters were well-written and well-developed. The story remained believable. This book provides the perfect beginning to this series, so check it out for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Emma Filbrun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read Justified Means a few years ago. I remember turning pages about as fast as I could, to find out what happened to Erika. Would she be all right in the end, or would whoever was after her catch up? Who was supplying information of her whereabouts to the wrong people? When I reread the book for this review tour, I knew she had escaped, so didn’t “have” to read so fast, and I enjoyed all the little details that Chautona included. (For a better review, read the one I wrote after I read the book the first time, here.)

I received a free copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great beginning to The Agency Files series. It is like an exploding firework that starts off with a bang and lots of colored sparkles to follow and keep track of. I was sucked in from the first line of Erika awakening to duct tape over her mouth. The mystery and intrigue of who is doing what and why keeps you on the edge. It is a balancing act to keep a suspense novel from going to far and this author does it well while intertwining the faith element with finesse. I look forward to continuing to read this series. I recommend this read.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Justified Means" by Chautona Havig is a novel that kept me reading. I really didn't guess how it ended till I finished the book and I want more books about these agents. I think this book would make a great movie for a date night with my husband, we don't usually like the same movies, but, I think this is one that we would both like. I was pleasantly surprised at the twist in the middle of the book, the story seems like it was ending but then takes up again. I truly recommend this book to readers who like a clean read filled with action and twists.

I received a contemporary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are mine.

[Challice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy when an author can make you second guess what you think you know. Chautona Havig did a brilliant job of setting the scene and getting you right in the with the characters. I began to howl in frustration as well smile in the right moments.
Chautona Havig wrote the suspense well, but I love the fact that her characters were real. I know that saying is becoming dull but the Christian had struggles and the non-Christian just didn't accept Jesus at a climax moment. It was awesome!

But, as much as I enjoyed this one... I loved book 2...

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love how Chautona captures my attention with her stories and keeps me reading through to the end. This book has suspense, action and a biblical theme throughout. Her characters are easy to get to know and likeable, want me to keep rooting for them. I loved the premise and the action continued so that I wanted to keep reading. I’m so glad I decided to read this book, and I love that it’s part of a series.

I received a copy of the book by the publisher, Celebrate Lit. All opinions are mine. I was not obligated to write a review.

[Marsha · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author and narrator employed a good strategy of having the professionally narrated audiobook available for free on YouTube. It piqued my interest and I borrowed the book in Kindle Unlimited to read in places where listening to audio would be inappropriate. The plot was fairly good but I found there were too many point-of-view characters. It was necessary for the plot, I suppose, but I personally prefer when there are two, maximum three POV characters. That helps me feel more connected to the characters. I'm not sure I'll read the other books in the series but time will tell.