Congo Dawn

by Jeanette Windle

While former Marine lieutenant Robin Duncan is no stranger to corruption or conspiracy, she has always been able to tell the good guys from the bad, and the Congo jungle at first seems no different. But as her security team tries to track down an insurgent killer, Robin has to face a man who broke her trust years ago, and she discovers the gray areas extend farther in this jungle wilderness than she anticipated.A ruthless global conspiracy begins to surface, run by powerful men who can't afford to leave any witnesses. Her life at stake, Robin doesn't know who to trust and wonders how she can help protect innocent people. Why is God silent amid all the pain and injustice? And how do these people of faith continue to rejoice in their suffering?

Genres: Fiction, Christian Fiction, Adult Fiction, Cultural, Romance, Christian, Africa

496 pages, ebook

First published February 1, 2013

About the author

As the child of missionary parents, award-winning author and journalist Jeanette Windle grew up in the rural villages, jungles, and mountains of Colombia, now guerrilla hot zones. Her detailed research and writing is so realistic that it has prompted government agencies to question her to determine if she has received classified information. Curently based in Lancaster, PA, Jeanette has lived in six countries and traveled in more than twenty. She has more than a dozen books in print, including the political/suspense best seller "CrossFire" and the Parker Twins juvenile mystery series.

Reviews

[Amanda Tero · Rating 4 out of 5]

I try not to review books "as a writer," but that seems the best approach to take with this book. This really was unlike most any book I've read. Part of that is because I generally read historical fiction and this is contemporary. What's more, it's contemporary military. Before I say anything more, I thoroughly enjoyed it and want to look up the author for more books. I was intrigued by the whole special ops.

It took me forever to read this book (as in almost two months). Most of that was due to lack of time and having other reading priorities. And I did find the first half of the book dragged a bit (which also makes me less inclined to pick it up and devour ten chapters at a time). I'm not a big back-story fan. In my opinion, the author could have written a prequel using all of the backstory she tied into this book. It gave amazing depth to the story, but so many times I felt myself going, "And they're currently where in the jungle??" It was hard, because you had to know most of the info, but it dragged the story. I will also blame my complete ignorance in special ops...a few times, I felt like I couldn't understand a thing that was going on during the first half. As I got further into the story, either I became used to terms and the operation, or the author became less cryptic. I don't know which. :)

As soon as I finished the book, I wanted to re-read it. There were so many things that exploded in the end of the story that was so cleverly laid out in the beginning and those would be fun to examine. A few things surprised me, and that doesn't usually happen in a story.

The author wrote strong, believable characters. Robin was fully persuaded in what she thought and she didn't do a quick turn-around. You felt like strangling her at times, but she was her own character. I liked that.

The spiritual side of the story... Wow. I'm not usually super impressed with Christian fiction because it's usually watery. This was so not. I think that this was one of the most beautifully written salvation scenes I have ever seen. There was such a tenderness about it. I absolutely loved it. Miriam was an amazing person and added a great spiritual depth to the story. Really. The spiritual essence of the story is five star.

The romance... it was hinted at throughout the story, you expected it, you were looking for it. There were a couple of scenes where the characters were close to each other and it was slightly emotional-driven. There were also quite a few references to rape, but I found that the author handled it very delicately.

All in all, this is a 4.5 star book. I would recommend it to most readers over 18.

[Christine Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Congo Dawn may very well be my all-time favorite of Jeanette Windle’s books. But then I say that with each of her books that come out. No one knows modern-day details of weaponry, ammunitions, technology, politics, medicine, in developing countries, better than Jeanette Windle. Her medical political thrillers are so steeped in authentic detail that you feel as though you really are in a Congo jungle with Doctors without Borders, doing all you can to protect innocent people from mercenary soldiers.

I was captured by the first few chapter, and especially when the female lead, Robin Duncan, former American marine, flips a guy onto his back for taking liberties because of the fact that she is woman.

Windle’s characters are always so real—real people against a very real and harsh world. Congo Dawn is like all of this author’s work, there’s nothing fluffy about it. This is another book that will satisfy the intelligent reader who wants hard-hitting truth, and the stuff that goes on in the hearts of people who will give up their own lives for those who are suffering.

Jeanette Windle always gives a story that is brave and caring. Leading the heart of readers to care for those whom Christ cares about too—the hungry, the hurting, the suffering. And she weaves in a tender romance as well to satisfy this romantic heart.

I wish I could give this book 8 stars instead of just 5. I also say with pride, that I was allowed to read an advanced reader copy of this excellent novel.

[Janell R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this author! She is one of the most talented contemporary authors I've had the pleasure to read after (this is not my first experience with her). She can weave a suspenseful tale that keeps you going about 60-70 MPH through 3/4 of the book, and then the last quarter of the book it speeds up to about 120 MPH. :-D And it's not just suspense. The spiritual content is also great, nothing flaky or cliched, but thought-provoking and spot on! This one was no exception, and I think an element that made it more 'special' to me was the setting, Congo. Since I spent a large portion of my life in Africa there was so much of it that I could picture even though I never lived in the jungle. Definitely a worthwhile read!

*Note: there are mentions of atrocities committed no details, and one or two slightly crude comments.

[Marian Baay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Former Marine Lieutenant Robin Duncan is on a mission in the Congo to track down an insurgent killer. This killer is known by the name Jini—which means Ghost because he seems invisible. Robin is the translator with the security team that is tracking down this Jini. She has taken this job because she needs the money to pay her little niece’s surgery.

Five years ago Robin served with the Marines in Afghanistan. Her brother also served there and they became best friends with Michael Stewart—an army medic. During an attack Robin’s brother was wounded, but according to Michael it was not serious and Robin’s brother would be alright.
When Robin also got wounded and was in coma her brother died. From that time on she is furious with Michael for letting him die.
Five years have passed without a word from Michael. Robin is certain he feels guilty for letting her brother die.
Now she’s in the Congo standing eye to eye with Michael again…

Michael got severely wounded in the same attack in Afghanistan—therefore he couldn’t take care of Robin’s brother. While recovering from his injuries Michael didn’t hear anything from Robin. After several attempts to contact her, with disappointing results, he gave up. He thought there was more between him and Robin, but apparently he was wrong.
Now Michael is working for Doctors Without Borders in the Congo and after five years he is seeing Robin back again.

When they find out what happened in Afghanistan, will they believe and forgive each other? Will Robin and her team track down Jini in time, before it is too late for her little niece? What obstacles and shocking discoveries lie ahead of Robin?
When Robin is seeing all the suffering around her in the village, she can hardly believe that the people put so much trust in God. Their songs of praise are reminding her of her childhood, and make her think of God. Will Robin learn to put her trust in Jesus?

Jeanette Windle is a talented writer. She creates a believable story with a strong mission. A must read for lovers of suspense books that take place in a country with a turbulent political background.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2DOEAG2...
Review on my blog (to be posted 2/12): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...

I don't recall ever having read any of Jeanette Windle's books before Congo Dawn, so I didn't have any idea what to expect. This isn't my typical kind of book (I'd label it international suspense), but I did end up liking it.

I have to say, though, it did take me a long time to get into the story (100+ pages) - mainly because of all the details in the beginning - and I seriously considered not finishing because of how bored I got, BUT the next 300+ pages totally made up for it! That's when the main action/suspense began for me and I really enjoyed it from then on.

My favorite character would have to be Dr. Michael Stewart. I just really liked how he acted and he seemed like a great guy. Robin grew on me and I ended up really liking her in the end. I also liked the little bit of romance that was in Congo Dawn. I loved one of the themes in the book - Good vs. Evil; Light in Darkness.

Overall, I liked Congo Dawn and found it informative about different topics (i.e. The Congo, mining, corruption, etc.). I'm glad I took the time to read it and if you generally enjoy these types of novels, then I think you will also like Congo Dawn.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*

[Tima · Rating 4 out of 5]

Robin is on assignment with an international corporation. Their job is to secure a mine that has been under fire from some insurgents deep in the Congo rain forests. She expects uncomfortable conditions and gunfire. What she doesn't expect is to see the man who betrayed her and her brother five years ago, leaving her brother dead. But as she's beginning to learn, everything isn't as it seems.

I'll be honest, I was a bit skeptical going into this book. It isn't my typical style. I thought I'd be passing it off to my husband rather quickly. But it really surprised me. It took me a while to get into the book, but once I got past the first few chapters and made sense of all of the names and places, I really enjoyed the story. It is filled with history about the Congo and the imagery is great. The author has the talent of writing so I could "see" everything. The plot was complicated, dramatic, and suspenseful. But it had tiny elements of romance as well. Beautifully written with the message of salvation and God's love woven through out the story. If massive descriptions bother you, than this book might be a bit much. But I enjoyed most of the historical descriptions and skimmed the rest. When put all together, I enjoyed this book enough to check out the author's other books.

I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book worth reading! It had some great action scenes and was full of suspense (there were a few moments that I literally hesitated in turning the page, worried about what might happen!), with a little bit of romance, and the book had a really exciting plot that lived up to its potential. The faith aspect was very strong (but not preachy) and I felt encouraged after reading this book.

There was sometimes more "telling" than "showing", but other than that I really liked it!

[Yiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Congo Dawn, by Jeanette Windle
This new book has the typical elements you can expect from a fiction novel that takes place in an African conflict zone – abuse and draining of a community due to its natural resources and foreign businessmen blinded by profits and ignoring the devastation their enterprises cause to the people living in their source of wealth, as well as suspense, unbelievable circumstances, romance… However, this novel tells no ordinary story and is far from being typical.
What makes this novel so special is not the common thread it shares with other books, but the wonderful depth that Jeanette Windle imprints in the story through amazingly accurate historical, social, geographical and spiritual depictions, as well as her care and interest for those who have seen their lives threatened again and again. She takes particular interest in describing how the apparent comforts that Western civilization offer do not yield to happiness. True zest for life comes from overcoming what lies ahead and keeping our eyes on heaven; it lies on the certainty that the Creator is good and just, no matter how horrible men’s actions might be.
Robin, formerly in the Armed Forces serving in Afghanistan, is hired as a translator for a security team that would go into the Ituri region of Congo in order to check the actions of Jini, a local insurgent that is threatening the operations of a mining enterprise. Robin’s niece is need of a medical procedure, and this job is Robin’s way of providing for the kid and Robin’s sister. Robin comes across with Michael, a friend whom she holds responsible for her brother’s dead. Michael is a doctor who grew up in the area where the mine is, so he has apparent ties to the local community. The security team sets up at Taraja, the place where Michael’s family lives and have set up a medical clinic.
What Robin never imagined back home, is that this job will imply more than dealing with the living arrangements for some weeks. She needs to face and deal with Michael, his family and the actual loyalties of those around her. Little by little, she finds out that things might not be all what they initially seem to be, and she ends up in the middle of a tangled situation between her employer, the community and the government; her life might be in danger, but after learning about the atrocities Taraja has been through, her eyes start to open and even her faith becomes a challenge. Robin must face a tough decision – whether to follow her instincts or let the military training kick in.
While the intrigues go on, Michael and Robin recognize that they still have feelings for each other, but resentment and pride is in the way. Both of them learn about forgiveness and the awful consequences they have brought to each other’s life by jumping into conclusions. They must decide whom to trust and how to act; ethics fluctuate with interest, self-motivation and self-gratification, but power shines with money’s glow and it will push them to the limit. They can either be part of the solution, stopping that monster from devouring the Congolese or allowing themselves to be deceived…
One aspect of the book that I really enjoyed was the accurate historical and social description of the Ituri and Taraja. Jeanette Windle’s biographical information states that she is the daughter of a missionary family and that she has lived in six countries and traveled to more than twenty. This fact is apparent in the beautiful, vivid and accurate descriptions of the Congolese country; it is obvious that Mrs. Windle has a profound interest in other cultures and in understanding the facts that have shaped their people’s identity. Not only does the author transport the reader to a luscious green rain forest, but she is also able to share the warmth and richness of life in the simple life of the people living in the Ituri region. I could not get enough of the colors, smiles, drums, singing, rhythmic chores, joy and sense of belonging Mrs. Windle describe of Taraja. I also appreciate the fact that this does not dilute the reality that many African people have to face – the destruction of their home towns and abuse from people seeking to profit from the resources that should benefit them.
What amazed me the most is the way people who have been unimaginably tough situations still have a zest for life and are able to grow closer to God as a result of it; I wonder how we might seek to strengthen our own relationship with God, were we to face such tragedies as the people of Taraja have. For instance, conflict is considered as an opportunity to purify His church (p. 168-169), to refine our character (p.275) and to provide an ideal environment where resourcefulness, strength, resilience, ingenuity and generosity will thrive (p.277).
The author does take a long time to set the story, which makes the start somewhat dreary, but it is well worth putting up with it. A little more into technique and a personal preference, I appreciate the fact that the author takes her time to finish the story and not leave loose ends to it; many books today seem to want to end on a high note (generally a romantic one), without taking the time to resolve the issues that were crucial in determining the turns of the plot. It was refreshing to read a book that respects the reader enough to do so.
I would highly recommend this novel as a gift or reference for a study group. The situations it contains might not be the easiest to cope with, but the richness and sincerity in the Tarajans and their relationship to God is certainly a feature to treasure. Vocabulary is clean, and although the main characters are attracted to each other, there are no improper situations, making it a good option for most audiences, including older teenagers (please make sure to verify the contents first and be ready for questions). As a plus, the author includes a series of questions in the end of the book that invite the reader to reflect and analyze attitudes that could turn into good learning experiences if channeled appropriately. Because of the tough questions it addresses and its harmony with Scripture, this book could definitely be used as an evangelizing tool as well.
It is commendable that in a world where most people prefer reading light stories that just “tickle their ears,” there are authors like Jeanette Windle who care enough to use their talent in order to share the love of God for humans.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange of an honest review. The latter has not influenced my opinion on the book or on the author.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Former Marine Robin Duncan has been working private security contracts in some of the world’s most impoverished and corrupt countries. When she takes a job as translator for a multinational company with mining interests in the Democratic Republic of Congo, she’ll come face-to-face with the ugly side of power, greed and personal interest. But her belief that God, if He is good and won’t stop suffering, exists in such a world will also come front and center.

Jeanette Windle’s newest novel, Congo Dawn, is action-packed and full of hard questions and truths. About God and suffering. Power and humility. Violence and peace. Wealth and poverty. Exploitation and redemption. In her typical fashion, Windle has taken true-to-life scenarios and woven a tale that sheds light on darkness in a corner of the world few of us know much about.

In Robin, Windle has created a complex character. She is hardened by life and loss but motivated by love for her niece with expensive health problems. She takes this job to provide for a necessary surgery that her single-mom sister can’t afford. When she begins to suspect that her employer hasn’t been honest with the team and that their mission is less than honorable, she struggles to justify her continued involvement because of her niece’s need.

Add to the mix, an ex-boyfriend, Michael, who is a medical missionary serving in the DRC. They bump into each other as Robin’s team is trying to cross into the country and later cross paths numerous times as the team sets up camp near the medical clinic. Michael and Robin’s history includes a tour in Afghanistan where Robin’s brother died. They haven’t spoken or seen each other in five years. In addition to sorting through their shared baggage, the two become involved in uncovering Robin’s employer’s true motive for the mission she’s on.

The story is compelling and inspiring. Robin wrestles with questions common to mankind. Why so much suffering? Why injustice? How long will you let this go on, God? Are you even out there? How can good possibly win the battle over evil?

The faith of the Congolese people and those serving with them challenges Robin’s relationship with God. And the overriding theme of the novel is one embraced by humanitarian organizations around the world: “The smallest flame shines brightest against the darkest night.”

Congo Dawn is a book I can’t put down, walk away from and forget. Though a work of fiction, it is based in truth. Wealthy countries exploit impoverished ones. A country rich in natural resources is kept from benefitting from them because of corruption and greed. People–God’s people–suffer daily while I live in comfort. And while I am not called to run off to serve in another country, I want to do something.

The author–who is also a friend–has some suggestions for what to take away from a novel like Congo Dawn.


“I would like readers to close Congo Dawn as well as my other titles with a better understanding of the very complex countries and issues they represent outside safe American borders. Even more so, how vital and interconnected events in the international arena, especially such issues as freedom of worship, speech, human rights, are to our own nations’ future and security. Above all, I want every reader to understand what is the only true source of hope and freedom for any society. Bottom line, when enough individual hearts change from hate to love, cruelty to kindness, greed to selflessness, their society will be transformed as well. Change a heart, change a nation. And how does one change hearts? Hopefully, by the last page of Congo Dawn, the reader will have an answer to that as well!”

———

In exchange for my review, I received a free copy of Congo Dawn from Tyndale House Publishers through the Tyndale Blog Network.

[ACS Book-finder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review: I must admit that when I began reading this book I found it overloaded with details and very difficult vocabulary. Had I not promised to do a book review, I would not have continued reading. But, as a result of a promise, I did continue reading and around page 65 began to find it difficult to put the book down. As the book opens, the author Jeanette Windle, informs the reader of a great deal of the history of Africa and the Congo in particular. She also introduces many characters and locations. When the story began to take on a plot, what emerged was a wonderful tale of failed dreams, disappointment and misunderstandings, forgiveness and eventually peace that accompanies trusting in our sovereign Creator who is working all things together for good.

Robin Duncan, an ex-Marine lieutenant, has been hired to serve as translator on an assignment to a mining camp in the Congo which is owned and operated by Ares Solutions and its CEO Trevor Mulroney. Rather quickly, Robin finds herself in the midst of untold corruption and conspiracy that has spread its ugly reach far beyond the local villagers to many in high ranking levels of government both in Africa and other parts of the world. This story weaves throughout its pages the dangers of making hasty judgments, stooping to all kinds of evil just to secure more of the “mighty dollar,” holding damaging grudges; and then, as the light of the gospel is spread, the story of truth, forgiveness, and trust in almighty God who is sovereign over all and uses all (both good and evil) to accomplish His will. It doesn’t hurt that a love story is also woven through the pages. I can recommend this book to be read by an upper level reader who is willing to persevere through its detailed beginning to find a delightful, informative read. (rev. J. La Tour)

More about the book from Tyndale: While former Marine lieutenant Robin Duncan is no stranger to corruption or conspiracy, she has always been able to tell the good guys from the bad, and the Congo jungle at first seems no different. But as her security team tries to track down an insurgent killer, Robin has to face a man who broke her trust years ago, and she discovers the gray areas extend farther in this jungle wilderness than she anticipated.

A ruthless global conspiracy begins to surface, run by powerful men who can’t afford to leave any witnesses. Her life at stake, Robin doesn’t know who to trust and wonders how she can help protect innocent people. Why is God silent amid all the pain and injustice? And how do these people of faith continue to rejoice in their suffering?

About the author: Jeanette Windle, as the child of missionary parents, award-winning author and journalist, grew up in the rural villages, jungles, and mountains of Colombia, now guerrilla hot zones. Her detailed research and writing is so realistic that it has prompted government agencies to question her to determine if she has received classified information. Currently based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Jeanette has lived in six countries and traveled in more than twenty. She has more than a dozen books in print, including Betrayed, Veiled Freedom and Freedom's Stand, as well as, the political/suspense best seller CrossFire. Visit the author's website

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by Tyndale Blog Network on behalf of the author and publisher in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer.

[Angie Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to think of this book going in, but I really enjoyed the story! I feel like the missionary/humanitarian vs. soldier/mercenary thing has been done before, but the way it was flipped on its head with Robin being the former Marine turned translator for the mercenary outfit and Michael being the humanitarian doctor--completely circumventing the whole weak, warmhearted female vs. strong, tough male bit--was really awesome! Also, I love the way this was pulled off without depriving Robin of all traditionally feminine qualities or Michael of any masculine virtues.

Second, the history between them and the way they dealt with it--yes, everything was super complicated and convoluted, but I loved the fact that they faced it head-on and didn't keep turning away and stuffing it inside. They actually talked through issues and history--what is this sense?!?--and yes, feelings were hurt and misunderstandings abounded, but it was wonderful to see adults acting like...adults...and not causing more issues through a simple failure to communicate. I've seen a lot of couples with a lot less confusion and hurt in their backstories handles things a lot worse. ;)

Third, the setting was amazing! Everything about it was rich and vibrant from the descriptions to the history to the people. My one tiny complaint would be that there was sometimes a tad too much description when I wanted to continue the action, but that's 100% personal preference on my part and not a fault in the author's style at all; my eyes tend to glaze over when I hit heavily descriptive passages in just about any book. But I still found myself noticing how well done the descriptions were, even as I was simultaneously wanting to run ahead and get back to the story. So anyone who enjoys well-crafted descriptions and a rich setting would probably adore them. :)

The plot definitely kept me on my toes wondering what was going to happen next, how it would be resolved, and who exactly I could trust. And even though I knew some of what was actually happening going in, it took a while to put all the pieces together and be sure of what was going on. The characters were rich, diverse, and complex--and not just the main ones! Also, the spiritual lessons were key to the story, not just random additions, and when the characters got into long theological discussions on a couple of occasions, it wasn't a token thing but really made sense with where they had been and what they were struggling with. Very nicely done!

Content--war scenes and mentions of various ethical and unethical tactics; mentions of deaths, including murders and massacres; mentions of rape (not detailed) and a child born as a result; mentions of injuries, wounds, and blood; mentions of cursing; mentions of men eyeing and making suggestive comments to women

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

Determined to earn enough money to pay for her niece’s desperately required surgery, Robin Duncan signs on with a private company who is headed into the heart of the Congo to secure a mining site. Robin is a former Marine lieutenant, used to dangerous situations and unknown territory. However, soon after arriving in Africa, she is reconnected with a former Marine she served with, Michael, a man she had been determined to keep hating due to Robin’s belief that he abandoned her. However, as they sift through the truth of their own past relationship, they also realize that the situation at the mine is not as it seems. Robin and her team are focused on finding an insurgent who is causing devastation to the mine and who planted a bomb that resulted in death and injury. But Robin soon realizes that the truth may be far different than she believed as evidence of a conspiracy emerges. Robin’s very life becomes threatened as she must choose who to side with in a fight for survival.

Congo Dawn is a fascinating novel, steeped in rich detail about the history of the Congolese people, filled with the drama of war and an oppressed people, all joined together by an overarching story of suspense and conspiracy. The story is sure to entertain readers who enjoy suspenseful novels set in foreign locales, and stars likable characters readers will soon grow to care about. Robin Duncan is a unique character with her military background, her determination to win her father’s approval, her heart-break over thinking that a person she grew to love had abandoned her. I loved watching her growth over the course of the story, especially the beautiful faith that develops within her. Usually fiction novels don’t leave me in deep thought, but this one did as the author probes questions about suffering and God’s response to it, questions set against a backdrop of the Congolese who have experienced war and abuse and rape and trial after trial. And yet the story also allowed me to reflect on the wonderful gift of hope that Jesus offers to us, hope even in the midst of such suffering. I admire that Robin’s journey of faith is not forced into being part of the story, but naturally fits into the plot and rich setting and the characters who are breathing with life in the pages of the story.

Jeanette Windle continues to impress me with the unique stories that she creates, and Congo Dawn is another winner. It is well-written, with a plot that kept me hooked and with characters I wish I could meet in real life.

I strongly recommend this novel and award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Tyndale House, for the purposes of this unbiased review

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

Determined to earn enough money to pay for her niece’s desperately required surgery, Robin Duncan signs on with a private company who is headed into the heart of the Congo to secure a mining site. Robin is a former Marine lieutenant, used to dangerous situations and unknown territory. However, soon after arriving in Africa, she is reconnected with a former Marine she served with, Michael, a man she had been determined to keep hating due to Robin’s belief that he abandoned her. However, as they sift through the truth of their own past relationship, they also realize that the situation at the mine is not as it seems. Robin and her team are focused on finding an insurgent who is causing devastation to the mine and who planted a bomb that resulted in death and injury. But Robin soon realizes that the truth may be far different than she believed as evidence of a conspiracy emerges. Robin’s very life becomes threatened as she must choose who to side with in a fight for survival.


Congo Dawn is a fascinating novel, steeped in rich detail about the history of the Congolese people, filled with the drama of war and an oppressed people, all joined together by an overarching story of suspense and conspiracy. The story is sure to entertain readers who enjoy suspenseful novels set in foreign locales, and stars likable characters readers will soon grow to care about. Robin Duncan is a unique character with her military background, her determination to win her father’s approval, her heart-break over thinking that a person she grew to love had abandoned her. I loved watching her growth over the course of the story, especially the beautiful faith that develops within her. Usually fiction novels don’t leave me in deep thought, but this one did as the author probes questions about suffering and God’s response to it, questions set against a backdrop of the Congolese who have experienced war and abuse and rape and trial after trial. And yet the story also allowed me to reflect on the wonderful gift of hope that Jesus offers to us, hope even in the midst of such suffering. I admire that Robin’s journey of faith is not forced into being part of the story, but naturally fits into the plot and rich setting and the characters who are breathing with life in the pages of the story.


Jeanette Windle continues to impress me with the unique stories that she creates, and Congo Dawn is another winner. It is well-written, with a plot that kept me hooked and with characters I wish I could meet in real life.


I strongly recommend this novel and award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.


Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Tyndale House, for the purposes of this unbiased review

[Miranda A. Uyeh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book an absolute delight, start to finish. Jeannette is such a brilliant and talented writer. Her use of metaphor is rich and pleasantly staggering.
I couldn’t have read this book at a better time. Maybe’s because the lessons are relevant to me in this time of my life. I needed to hear what this book had to say, and I’ll recommend it to anyone asking God questions about the evil in this world. It is truly classic.

Robin was an interesting character. She’s a true picture of what could go wrong if zeal is not led in the right direction. Thankfully, that was properly taken care of in the end. She also represented the true and natural human logically reaction to the mess in this world. I found myself right in her shoes. She was quite the character—overly pleasant at the end of the day. She proved herself strong and true especially when she let herself fall into the loving arms of God and His abounding grace.

It was interesting to watch Michael’s outward reaction from Robin’s perspective. Although I’d have loved to see more of Michael’s monologue, especially in regards to his feelings for Robin. What was offered in this story was not sufficient. However, it did not reduce the satisfaction I gained at the end of the book.

I would have also loved to see more of the romance between Michael and Robin. Most of what was depicted was in their past story in Afghanistan, which wasn’t much either. Throughout the book, they hardly spoke nicely to each other, and they seemed too caught up in the events around them leaving little time for each other. Romance wasn’t given a chance to bloom and grow.

There were quite a number of POVs but Jeanette handled them so well they paced the story just as it should go. Every character was given a chance to develop their personality in a way that seemed very real. It was like watching a movie. Jeanette showed immense knowledge in the technicalities that came with the mercenary profession. The jargon in certain parts of the story was a bit much for me but I totally agree that it was needed to paint the reality of the story.

This story is so amazing that I’d recommend with no reservations that it be made into a screenplay both for secular and Christian viewing. Every attribute needed to make a wonderful Action movie is found in this story. I’d know, because I’m a movie fan.

Overall, it was a wonderful read.

Although I offer this review to the public, it’s my opinion and simply that. Many thanks to Tyndale for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Starr]

While former Marine lieutenant Robin Duncan is no stranger to corruption or conspiracy, she has always been able to tell the good guys from the bad, and the Congo jungle at first seems no different. But as her security team tries to track down an insurgent killer, Robin has to face a man who broke her trust years ago, and she discovers the gray areas extend farther in this jungle wilderness than she anticipated.A ruthless global conspiracy begins to surface, run by powerful men who can’t afford to leave any witnesses. Her life at stake, Robin doesn’t know who to trust and wonders how she can help protect innocent people. Why is God silent amid all the pain and injustice? And how do these people of faith continue to rejoice in their suffering?

My Thoughts: It is very rare that I do not finish a review book. (Though it seems to be happening more often now than in the past). I appreciate the authors and the publishers who entrust me with an ARC or even a finished copy for review. But they do that, understanding that not every book is meant for every person. Or at least, I hope that they do.

Saying that, I have to admit that this book just wasn’t for me. I don’t think that there is anything wrong with the writing, in fact, I find that the book was well written. I made it to the halfway mark before I put this book aside. I had every intention of coming back to it. I thought that I was just getting bored with it because of Book A.D.D. But two weeks went by and I hadn’t even thought about it. I passed by it one day and decided to pick it up, to finish it and move on. So I flipped to my bookmark, and I wasn’t interested in it -at all. I had a vague idea of what was going on so I didn’t have to start over. But, I wasn’t pulled back into the world. Sure, I wanted to know if the main character (what was her name again?) reconnected with her old love interest, but not in the whole “read the book to find out” kind of way.

I can blame part of my disinterest in finding that the main character was not that strong of a female lead. I mean I know she wasn’t picked out to be a hired mercenary, and I know that she was physically able to take care of herself. But, she was too passive for my tastes (as evidenced by her conversation/confrontation with her sister). I could be wrong, the ending may have redeemed the first half of the book. But, I couldn’t do it. I wasn’t invested enough in the story or the characters to turn the page again. So, I moved on and admitted that this book just wasn’t for me.

DNF Review

[Christie Hagerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This suspenseful story of international intrigue centers around a former Marine whose seen her share of personal tragedies. Robin now works as a hired mercenary in order to provide for her sickly niece's medical care. Although she is a tender-hearted, sincere person, we see glimpses of the bitterness that has taken root inside her as the story unfolds. She must finally decide if she is able to let these walls down and trust in the One who has brought her this far, or if she will remain fiercely self-reliant.

I was most impressed with how well this book will appeal to all sorts of readers. A mild love plot is lurking in the background as Robin sorts out the past and evaluates the possibility of a future with one of the men who's hurt her. Missionaries in the area where Robin is working are taking care of refugees and sharing God's love with the natives as well as those soldiers wreaking havoc on the area. Intrigue and betrayal surround the hired team's mission to restore mining operations in the African rain forest. I went from crying to laughing to biting my nails to crying again as I worked my way through these pages. This is an edge-of-your-seat kind of book.

Congo Dawn a complicated tale, so don't expect an easy vacation read on this one. I had to really focus on the first few paragraphs, and even as the story unfolded, to keep straight the corporations and governments and good guys and bad guys. So did Robin.

The themes of forgiveness and vengeance are weaved throughout the book, with real questions about injustice, suffering, and discernment. I found myself noting the scriptures referenced in several places, as they applied directly to my life right now.

It's obvious that Ms. Windle really did her homework on this one, and she made the people of the rain forest come alive. I would love to see this turned into a movie. Excellent writing!

PARENTAL RATING (May contain spoilers): If this were a movie, it would have a PG-13 rating for violence. None of it was grotesque, and any torture or assaults were spoken about in the past tense in semi-vague retellings of stories. There are some pretty tense moments, but I didn't have to skip any pages or deal with nightmares afterwards. :) I'm not sure this is my girls' cup of tea, but I'd let them read this if they asked.

...Find more details in my post.

[Iola · Rating 3 out of 5]

Robin Duncan is an ex-marine turned linguist mercenary, hired for a translation job in the Congo with private security firm Ares, a subsidiary of multinational corporation Earth Resources. The operation doesn’t start well: Trevor Mulroney, a self-made billionaire and head of Earth Resources, expected a man. Pieter Krueger, head of the mercenary team, doesn’t like the public rebuff Robin gives him. And she’s on the same plane as Michael, the man she holds responsible for the death of her younger brother.

Dr Michael Stewart is on assignment with Médecins Sans Frontières in the Congalese village his parents also served in before they were brutally murdered. He isn’t pleased when Robin turns up with wounded from the mine her team are based at, and even less pleased when their hunt for a dangerous insurgent leads to the establishment of a large military camp less than a kilometre from the medical mission.

The novel opened with a gripping prologue, but early chapters of the book had a lot of detail about the political history of the Congo (formerly Zaire) and neighbouring countries. It was slow reading, and not her best writing, but I slogged through, thinking it would be important to the plot. Some of it was necessary, but I do think it was far too long and detailed. But I persevered, and was rewarded when the story finally found its feet.

Jeanette Windle doesn’t write typical Christian fiction, and Congo Dawn is no exception. She writes about familiar people in unfamiliar settings, including South America, Afghanistan and now central Africa. While this is fiction, the violence, government corruption and human rights abuses are all too real in this part of the world, and what seems right might, in fact, be wrong.

Windle uses the situation to explore the age-old question: how can a good God allow such evil? As circumstances force Robin to explore this question, her beliefs about Michael, about God and about her role with Ares Solutions are challenged. This is clearly a Christian novel, with a clear gospel message and a depth of understanding of the nature of suffering and character that few authors can demonstrate. Recommended.

Thanks to Tyndale House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

!I’m not a person who follows politics or the international scene very closely, but this book, set in a dark corner of the world, drew me in from page one and held my attention to the very last word. I have never read any previous work by Jeanette Windle, but this book was well worth my time.

Robin Duncan has one goal in mind when she takes an assignment with an international corporation. Drawing on her past experience as a marine lieutenant, she fills the position of interpreter on a security team seeking to safeguard a Congolese region threatened by a ruthless killer. She needs the money to help pay for life-saving surgery for her niece.

The mission finds Robin confronted with situations she had not expected to encounter, both on personal and professional levels. She comes face to face with Dr Michael Stewart, the man she once loved and for whom she still harbors bitterness at his betrayal involving her brother’s death. Just when it seems she and Michael have cleared up their misunderstandings, another situation comes along to make them wary of each other.

Robin begins the mission with complete faith in the good intentions of her superiors. She learns that the people she thought she could trust are embroiled in a deceitful, profit-seeking scheme. The insurgent the team seeks to capture, originally perceived as the evil enemy, may have motivations for his actions that are more justifiable than she could have imagined. All is not as it seems, and the division between good and evil blurs into a mass of confusion.

The author has crafted realistic characters who persevere in the face of adversity, show outstanding courage when confronted with danger, and base their decisions on compassion and love.

The element I liked most about this book is that Miss Windle takes the age old question of why a loving God allows so much human suffering and faces it straight on. She uses scripture in a non-preachy way to guide her reader to a deeper understanding of what human suffering is truly all about.

I felt a degree of shame as the author painted pictures of the stark reality of how people in war torn countries live, survive, and, with so little of what I take for granted, find joy in the midst of their suffering and sacrifice.

[LeAnne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeanette Windle’s books just keep getting better. This one is set in Congo, former Zaire and Joseph Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness.” Whether that darkness is local or colonial, Conrad leaves in doubt, and Windle picks up this theme in a thriller that will keep you up at night turning pages. The author knows Africa from the relief organizations and schools where my kids studied to the stamping of pestles and the singing of the locals. She shows African believers putting us Westerners to shame with their faith in the midst of a horrific situation. The book may be fiction, but the situation of brutal warlords and corrupt corporations grabbing what they can get at the expense of ordinary people is all too real.

Windle has mastered the art of withholding back-story until we are desperate to find out what lies behind the characters’ pain and angry reactions. The plot deals graphically with the question of maintaining faith in God’s love in the midst of suffering. Miriam, the American wife of an African doctor in a bush clinic, apologizes for preachiness in chapter twenty-seven where Windle lays out her theology of suffering. She asks who has the right to say “Jesus loves you” to one in pain. It might have been subtler if Robin, the main character struggling with the issues, had come to her own conclusions in a shortened form, but Miriam has been through her own personal hell. I can well imagine readers of fiction who would never dream of picking up a work of non-fiction on the classic problem of pain, who by the time they reach that chapter are more than ready for someone to walk them through the intricate issues in the context of characters who reflect realities in that war-torn piece of the continent. The story certainly doesn’t lack for illustrating the truths explained.

Although the ending is satisfying, it is not neatly tied up with the bad guys punished and the good guys living happily ever after. Check the internet—the unrest in Congo has not ended. But the story does end with hope—hope in Jesus Christ who loves us in our pain and does not abandon us in our suffering.
[I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.]

[Shirley Corder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Jeanette Windle grew up as the daughter of missionaries in the rural villages, jungles, and mountains of Colombia, now a hot-bed of hostility and political unrest. She is therefore the ideal author for a suspense thriller like Congo Dawn, with its international intrigue, corruption, and unforgiving brutality.

When former Marine lieutenant Robin Duncan arrives in a Congolese rain-forest as an international interpreter, she meets up with Michael Stewart, the man who broke her heart years before. She blames him---and God--for the death of her only brother, and is not sure she can ever forgive either of them.

Robin is part of a team whose mission is to track down an insurgent killer known as Jini--"The Ghost," so called because he appears and disappears at will. The story-line is complex and extremely well thought out. Although I anticipated some of the story-line, much of it kept me guessing until the end.

The characters, as always with Jeanette's books, are so real you begin to feel as if you know them personally. I developed a gripping terror of the mercenary soldiers, a concern for Robin's safety, and at times a desire to stop her in her tracks as she deliberately headed into danger which I knew would get her into trouble with her team leader.

Congo Dawn is not a light, easy-read, bedtime story. I have lived most of my life in Africa, and found Jeanette's descriptions both vivid and realistic. I could see the terror on the faces and smell the smoke and dust of the brutal massacres and attacks on innocent people. I recoiled against the corruption and greed of those for whom human-life is cheap, and I was challenged by the rich faith in some who have nothing in the eyes of the world.

This gripping story moves beyond the Africa of the travel brochures and reveals the horrors that all too frequently occur in some areas of "The Dark Continent" and elsewhere.

** I received this novel in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. My opinion was not affected in any way.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Congo Dawn" by Jeanette Windle gets 4 stars from me. It was written well but it wasn't my type of book until about half way through the book. I have to admit that I struggled with what rating to give this book but when I finished the book I liked it as a whole.
This book is about minerals that is discovered in the Congo and betrayal. Joseph was born in the Congo and went to America to college and while he was he told his employer about the minerals in the Congo. Joseph wanted to help his fellow company men but his employer was greedy. Joseph tries to stop the thief of these minerals by blowing on the mine and the employers send in Robin and other Ares Solutions. Ares Solutions is helped by Wamba, the crooked government of the Congo. Robin is an ex Marine who is there because she believes the Ares Solutions agents are there to help get the mine running to help the Congolese people. But almost immediately Robin runs into Dr.Micheal Stewart, a man who she believed was going to ask her to marry him and then lied to her five years ago and caused her brother to die. Robin is on this assignment to get the bonus money to help pay for an operation that will save her neice's life. Robin is always trying to help the victims but as learns the truth, she puts her life in danger to help the victims. Robin's learns that God does love but that He has to let people suffer the results of their choices to make them as gold. I was surprised at some of the things that she learned from Miriam's, Micheal's sister, a victim about forgiveness. These are all messages that all Christians need to know and understand.
Will Robin be saved in time? Will Robin learn the truth about Dr.Micheal Stewart? I believe I will leave that to you to discover for yourself.
If you like mystery and suspense with a little but of a love triangle then this is a book for you!
I received this book from www.bookfun.org to read and post my honest opinion.

[Jencey/ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Tyndale House for my review copy. Most of you are familiar with conflict diamonds, but are you also familiar with conflict minerals? The story of Congo Dawn centers around one of those conflict minerals.
Synopsis:
Robin has taken one last job with Ares Solution a company that is known for its employment of exmilitary. Robin’s job is specifically as a translator since she is fluent with both French and Swahili. The purpose of this job is to provide enough money for her niece to have a surgery she really needs. Her team is searching for a leader of an insurgent party named Jini. They are trying to help a mine be able to bring out more molybdenum. One thing she did not count on is running into Doctor Michael Stewart. Robin has many questions for him from their past. How will their past affect the future? What is really going on in Ituri province?
My Thoughts:
One verse reoccurs often throughout the novel Isaiah 5:20 “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter.” (Biblegateway.com) The question becomes what are we seeing in the lower story or our circumstances? What does God see? I have felt recently that it is easier to get lost in the lower story and not see God’s light through our circumstances.
I am a huge fan of Jeanette Windle’s work. I have read every one of her adult novels except for one. I am always excited to share a new release. The only part of the novel that I did not enjoy is the lag in the story sometimes. Congo Dawn focuses on the suffering of the Congolese people, but yet they continue to have hope and faith in God. For Robin the main character what does that mean with what she had been taught growing up?

[Luisa Knight · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a fun, enjoyable adventure to read!

Cleanliness:

Sexual Content
Making Out/Sex - 4 Incidents
When a village is plundered, there is some raping which is only described with "when the first woman was tossed down onto the red dirt of the clearing." A mercenary says, "Since you will need her no longer, I will take your translator as my profit instead. I have never possessed a woman with hair like fire before." - sexual implication. "Women, little girls, and boys, too, who've been ... wounded so badly they'll never be able to enjoy normal marriage and kids of their own." A main character was raped in an uprising: "They didn't bother using their machetes on me, not until -" rape implied. She ends up getting pregnant and raises her son with the man she marries.

Sexual Miscellaneous - 2 Incidents
Mentions that several male villagers are naked except for a loincloth. "Back when your oldest brother was still at his mother's breast." - not sensually/crudely stated.

There is a thread of romance, but it is not forefront to the story. The couple kiss.

Profanity
Anatomical Terms - 1 Incident: scr*wup
Scatological Terms - 1 Incident: bl**dy
Religious Profanities - 2 Incident: "Have mercy, for the love of God!", godforsaken

Violence
This is an action story and has shooting and people getting shot and killed. Nothing is described graphically.

Conversation Topics - 1 Incident
Mentions beer, drugs such as marijuana and a narcotic made from local plants.

**Like my reviews? I also have hundreds of detailed reports that I offer too. These reports give a complete break-down of everything in the book, so you'll know just how clean it is or isn't. I also have Clean Guides (downloadable PDFs) which enable you to clean up your book before reading it! Visit my website: The Book Radar.

[ChrisGA · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel, set in the turbulent Congo, is a study of the chaos, violence and greed that lead the power-hungry to perpetrate death and suffering on the powerless villagers. Both native militia and non-native corporate exploiters cause so much misery that the label "heart of darkness" from Conrad's so-named novel, only too clearly applies. Robin, the protagonist, is overwhelmed with the magnitude of suffering she sees and her protection organization only worsens. She cries out as people have always done- where is a loving God in this ugliness and why doesn't He do something about it?

This is not an easy book to read. The reader "sees" this hopelessness and pain through Robin's eyes as she struggles to come to grips with the difficulty telling who is evil and who is good and how she can be part of the light in this part of the world where people are so desperately needed to be the hands and feet of God.

Miriam, who has suffered greatly but radiates God's peace and love, explains things this way:" Darkness, suffering, injustice are the very things that show the measure of a person's true character as peace and comfort never can. After all, without the darkness, how could we ever measure the light? Without the trials, without the option to choose unspeakable evil, we wouldn't be free to choose things like courage, honor, sacrifice, endurance." She confidently states that "God comforts us in our suffering so we can pass on to others the comfort he gives us." She shares her belief that the "beauty of human character and spirit. . . has been refined and purified to shining gold by the furnace of war and pain and suffering." Whew, there is a whole lot to mull over in this action adventure story.

[Tanya · Rating 3 out of 5]

Congo Dawn over all is a good book but not normally the kind of book I would pick up. I wanted something different that I don't read regularly just for some change in my everyday reading. It took me awhile to get into the book but I liked how the book correlated with light vs. darkness or good vs. evil. I also loved how there was some sort of love triangle in it as well. A good love story always makes a book better right? I would rate this book a three out of five stars just because it is not a typical book I would read.


Book Overview: Christian Fiction



Overview

While former Marine lieutenant Robin Duncan is no stranger to corruption or conspiracy, she has always been able to tell the good guys from the bad, and the Congo jungle at first seems no different. But as her security team tries to track down an insurgent killer, Robin has to face a man who broke her trust years ago, and she discovers the gray areas extend farther in this jungle wilderness than she anticipated.

A ruthless global conspiracy begins to surface, run by powerful men who can’t afford to leave any witnesses. Her life at stake, Robin doesn’t know who to trust and wonders how she can help protect innocent people. Why is God silent amid all the pain and injustice? And how do these people of faith continue to rejoice in their suffering?

(Barnes and Noble)


Book Information:

496 page count

ISBN: 978-1-4143-7158-0

Christian Fiction

Release Date: February 2013

Author: Jeanette Windle

[Beckie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Congo Dawn" by Jeanette Windle follows Robin, a former marine and present day translator/mercenary for hire who travels to the Congo with a British Billionaire to ensure that he can make money off of his molybdonite mine. He is using forced labor including children. Apparently, in Africa if you have a gun and enough money you can do what you want wherever you want. The government doesn't care as long as you line their pockets as well. Upon arrival in Africa, she meets up with a former friend. The relationship with Michael, a doctor with Doctors without Borders, had ended badly 5 years ago and now you can cut the sexual tension with a knife. Robin also realizes that nothing is as it seems, that she isn't on the "right side", and that God is watching.

This is a hard to read book. The words aren't that hard, but it isn't a book you can read while watching TV and with kids yelling in the house. It also isn't a happy, pass the time, type either. This is a serious book about a serious situation. It was hard for me to get into and I really didn't want to. It starts off with doom and well.....guilt. I have recently read "Rare Earth" another book about the invasion of Africa to the benefit of the rest of the world and yet I still use my cell phone regularly, knowing that Africans are being robbed of their lands for the insides. This book is no different. Well, a little, monlybdinite isn't rare, but the rape of a Continent is. This is a book that should be read, but I warn you, it won't be a picnic.

[Anne Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A few weeks ago, The Book Club Network offered some free books to people who would be willing to review. That's what I do, so I selected two books. This is one of them. When I informed the author, she warned me it was a thick book and not light reading. Okay, so it's one inch thick plus a teensy, and it's about business, politics, intrigue, and romance in the thick jungles of the Congo. Heavy reading. In approximately three hours of reading I've delved through a little less than half the book.

That being said--So far, so good!

The business? Molybdenum mining, and all is not as the owners portray to the public or to all their employees.

The politics? The Governor of the area, Wamba, wants a finger or two in the prosperous molybdenum pie. How he gets his share isn't all that important.

The intrigue? It's impossible to tell who is out to get whom, although the mysterious Jini is assumed to be the leader of the Congolese people trying to sabotage the mining operations. A highly educated man with the ability to fade unseen into the thick jungle after attacks, the owners of the mine want him dead or alive--preferably dead.

The romance? Sigh. Looks like it's not going any anywhere. Marine Lieutenant turned translator Robin thinks Michael let her brother bleed out after being wounded in Afghanistan. Combat Medic turned doctor Michael thinks Robin wiped him off her list when he had laid injured and in a coma for three months.

Both of them are mistaken, and about more than just each other.

[Wyndy · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting book about a female North American former marine who takes a translation job with a mining company in the Congo. Although she spent her youth in Africa the many horrible genocidal African wars had not yet started when her family left there to a positing State-side. When they arrive she is disconcerted to discover that a former Marine friend is also at the village by her base-camp as a doctor at the missionary camp. She is disconcerted because she has feelings for him and yet she believes that he left her brother to die in Afghanistan. The theme of the book is based of the verse in Isaiah 5:20, Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil. Robin must determine who really is evil and who is good before another war is started and more villages and their people are killed. I found that the book was long but very interesting especially the realization that the Congo has a 300 year history of Christianity that is deeply engrained in her people despite the horrors that have been visited upon them. Who's faith is deep enough and strong enough to survive the horrors that are brought upon the villagers and Robin's team. Although romance is involved this is not a romance focused story but rather a story about sorting out beliefs and right and wrong.

I received this book from Tyndale for book review purposes, my review is strictly my opinion.

[Jenny Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lieutenant Cristina Robin Duncan comes from a military family. She even spent some time as a child in Africa at the embassy which added Swahili and French to her now grown-up resume. Her skill set is in demand as a supposedly humanitarian business group heads into the Congo to deal with rebelling natives that are slowing profitable mining operations.

Doctor Michael Stewart is with Doctors without Borders. He too is heading to the Congo, returning to the mission hospital his grandfather built and Michael and his sister helped rebuild. He is returning to help with the victims of the mining conflicts, the native victims.

When Duncan and Stewart run into each other in Africa, each has flashbacks of being on the same side in Afghanistan. Unfortunately this time these old friends seem to be on opposing sides of the conflict.

It took a few chapters to get into the story and excitement as there is a lot of back story and detail. However, once I did, this book was hard to put down. As a Christian military thriller it can get a little preachy but I think it also deals well with the question “Why does God allow suffering?”

I enjoyed the ride and would recommend this to adults who struggle wit the aforementioned question as well as those who enjoy a clean, exciting read.

I received this book free from the publisher to read and write an honest review.

[Marianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

i read this while waiting in the airport, sitting in the airplane, all but reading while driving the car! An absolutely riveting, intriguing and intense novel. Just when you think you know where the characters are headed and what's ahead for them, something or someone jumps out of the rain forest at you and screws all your carefully thought out plans and throws them under the canopy of trees and you are in mortal danger. Oh, no, that would be former Marine lieutenant R. Duncan, last in a long line of Marine lieutenant R. Duncans, who is in danger of loosing her life!
Even as I write this, distanced from the reading by a few days, my adrenaline raises a notch.
Experience life in a dense rain forest, where the sun does not reach the forest floor, exotic flowers grow, and guerrilla forces tangle with government armies.
Jeanette is a superb story teller making the reader feel as if they are actually a character in the scene, seeing what they see, hearing what they hear, and even feeling the anxiety, the dread of the situations. She takes the point of view to the next level, with great talent. Jeanette's novels are a must read if you enjoy Suspense fiction.

I received this novel free from Tyndale for the purpose of writing an honest review review. An positive critique was not required, and the opinions expressed are my own.