Secondary Target

The Secrets of Kincaid #1

by Angela Carlisle

After the brutal murder of her mother and brother twelve years ago, Corina Roberts built a new life in Kentucky. But then strange things begin to happen, and she is thrust into a perilous game of life and death. With nowhere else to turn, her best hope of survival depends on her ex, army veteran Bryce Jessup.Recently returned from service, Bryce has every intention of staying away from Corina, but when threats close in around her, he isn't willing to leave her safety to chance. As their search for answers uncovers lethal secrets her detective father kept hidden, Bryce and Corina must untangle the mystery of the merciless killer intent on terrorizing and eliminating Corina's family before it's too late.Debut author Angela Carlisle will leave you breathless with this bone-chilling story of a ruthless murderer, a deadly secret, and an unbreakable love.

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

336 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2024

Reviews

[Oceana Reads Co. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a solid start to a series and a great debut for the author!

I liked the characters right away and her ability to write heart-pumping action!
The suspense was real in this one!

Corina was so relatable the way she dealt with her grief and fear. Bryce was so patient and sweet to her even when he put his foot in his mouth in some occasions. I loved his sister Allye in this too! Looking forward to her book next!

There were chapters in the killer's perspective that added suspense to the story, but weren't too creepy to be enjoyable.

The faith content was good! Corina had a come to Jesus moment and the characters were praying lots throughout the story.
I would recommend it!

Trope and Triggers: second chance romance, best friend's brother, slow-burn romance, serial killer, stalker, some death, a dog (that doesn't die), no language, not even a kiss I can remember but there probably was one

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I still need convincing that this was written by a debut author!

THIS is the type of book I LOVE to read.

Waiting until May 2025 for the sequel is going to be difficult.

The mystery and suspense were expertly written and I was on the edge of my seat for most of the story. It was good to have a romantic subplot to balance out the tension! I loved being kept in the dark, loved the dual POV, loved the ‘time is running out’ factor, loved the pacey read, and loved that the antagonist was so cunning. It kept me engaged.

The reminder that none of us escape life unscathed was just what I needed today. I appreciated the gentle reminder that I must reach out because none of us are meant to walk alone. Regardless of our situation, there’s hope and healing. Watching Corina’s growth gave me pause and I hope to take to heart what I’ve learned.

I was gifted this copy by Bethany House and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

["Avonna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com

SECONDARY TARGET (The Secrets of Kincaid Book #1) by Angela Carlisle is an action filled gripping Christian romantic suspense set in small-town Kentucky where danger from one of the heroine’s P.I. father’s cold cases come back to threaten all those she loves. This is a well written start to a new series from a debut author.

Corina Roberts has built a new life with her father in a small Kentucky town. Strange things begin to happen that are increasingly threatening and she also discovers her father has been keeping secrets from her. With her father in the hospital, she turns to her Army veteran ex-boyfriend to assist her in discovering who is after her.

Bryce Jessup returned to his hometown hoping to stay out of his ex’s way, but when Corina is threatened, he is not willing to leave her unprotected. Corina and Bryce must untangle the mystery behind a ruthless killer from her father’s past before he eliminates everyone she loves, including her.

I really enjoyed these characters and the main suspense plot. Corina and Bryce both had communication issues after a tragic accident that ended their relationship, but they slowly resolve these problems even as they are dodging a killer. Corina is also dealing with her father keeping secrets from her, and her loss of faith after the two horrible tragedies in her life. While Corina and Bryce both have moments of prayer and discussions of faith, it did not disrupt the pace of the suspense plot. This is a Christian romantic suspense so there are no sex scenes in this second chance romance. I enjoyed both the well-developed characters and the well-paced romantic suspense plot.

I recommend this exciting Christian romantic suspense and I am looking forward to the next book in this series from this new author.

[Kristina Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

An epic debut romantic suspense novel!

Bryce and Corina were both sympathetic, well-developed characters. Their backstories and the way they reacted to them gave them depth. Most romantic suspense books have one or both characters involved in law enforcement, but Secondary Target took a different route that I quite enjoyed for a change. Bryce (even though he was former military) and Corina were just "normal" people caught up in crazy events. I enjoyed Bryce and Corina's second-chance romance and am excited to get to read Allye's story next year.

The plot moved along quickly with plenty of moments of suspense, danger, and high stakes. Poor Bryce and Corina experienced a lot of problems. I appreciated that Angela Carlisle kept both the language and romance clean, and I liked her clear, fast-paced writing style.

Overall, I found Secondary Target to be an exciting read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and romantic suspense novels. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

Disclosure: I received this book free from Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Amanda (BookLoverAmanda) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secondary Target by Angela Carlisle
Book 1 in The Secrets of Kincaid Series
4 Stars
BLOG POST: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...

Angela Carlisle's debut novel Secondary Target is an intense, fast-paced, Christian romantic suspense that had me hooked from PAGE 1 Y'ALL! Let me tell yalllll, if you like high-stakes drama, second-chance romance and edge of your seat suspense - check this one out!

I loved the suspense and romance in this one personally. Corina has worked to rebuild her life after the traumatic loss of her mother and brother 12 years ago. Strange events start to come up.....her father disappears....and she turns to her ex, Bryce Jessup, an army veteran recently back from the service. The story goes on from here as many secrets unfold from the past and someone eventually comes after Corina and Bryce has to help keep her safe.

If you like Lynette Eason, Dani Pettrey, Lynn H Blackburn etc., check out Angela! Her book was great! I didn't love one item that happened in the end, so that's what made it more 4 star for me then 5, but still a solid read! Audiobook is really well done too.

[Cara Putman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fast-paced, page-turner of a book. Filled with past longings and second chances and secrets from the past that are determined to explode into today.

[JaneReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the opening scene, I was hooked and wanted to know what was happening. Then I needed to who the villain was. I was fully invested in figuring out what secrets were being kept from Corina, if her dad would be okay and could they figure it out in time. I appreciated how the Bryce and Allie put their lives at risk and on hold to be there for Corina. This villain was evil and quite talented at getting past the defenses. Quite a few people are seriously injured or killed. I do not normally enjoy second chance romances, but these characters captured me quickly and had me rooting for them to get back together. A tragedy in the past separated them, but being reunited got them to discuss their reactions to what happened and figure out how to move forward. This tragedy affected their faith in different ways and I appreciated how they discussed the past and their faith. It felt natural and flowed well. It was refreshing to read a suspense book where neither of the main characters are in law enforcement themselves, but rather stuck in this dangerous situation and work with the police for assistance. The ending reveal shocked me just as much as Corina felt shocked. I am looking forward to the next book in the series as the preview included in this one let me know that we've already met the main characters.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sleep? What sleep? I pulled up this file to try a chapter or two at 11:30 pm and turned out the lights at 2:30 am on a Monday morning! I literally couldn’t put it down until I couldn’t see the screen anymore!

Carina doesn’t even know her dad has her carefully shielded from their past. When he realized he couldn’t solve the murders of her mother and brother, he put her in his truck and they vanished. She was just a child back then and life has been peaceful in their new Kentucky home—until now. She’s followed her dreams and opened her own business despite having moved past so much personal loss, including her boyfriend’s kid brother, whose death drove the two of them apart. But Brady’s just left the military now, and it looks like he’s going to be her only hope to catch the diabolical stalker who’s after her now.

I loved the super-twisty mystery angle and the clues Carina and Brady try to assemble together as they attempt to figure out who’s after them before he switches to a kill game. As a veteran mystery reader, I counted only two clues that pointed directly to the real killer, with everything else being clear only in retrospect. It was so tense watching the stalker toy with them while he waged his campaign of terror, especially when he started killing people close to them. Eek!

I really can’t wait for the second book, as I liked both of those characters in this one.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good romantic suspense debut!

Set in Kentucky with events stemming from a cold case, there is plenty of action in the pages as Corina tries to stay alive and protect those around her. The reveal of the villain and the reasons behind the crimes were well done.

Love the cover and title. Look forward to the next in the series.

My gratitude to the author and publisher (Bethany House) for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This is a fantastic debut suspense novel.
Corina has been living with her dad while repairs are being done to her house. Then strange things bein to happen. Her dad, Will, is secretive about their past and why her mom and brother were murdered years ago. Old boyfriend, Bryce, and his sister Allye who is her best friend are there to help her. Corina is a determined and independent lady who tries her hardest to figure out who wants to kill her and wonders why God is silent.
So many surprises and twists to the story. And the author has penned a crafty, ruthless, and obstinate bad guy. But justice prevails and Corina learns to trust in God again, thanks to supportive Bryce who prays for her.
I am sure more exciting things are in store in the next book where we learn more about Allye.
Do not miss this well crafted start to a new series by Angela Carlisle.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author and an ecopy from NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Caitlyn Santi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowzers, what a fantastic romantic suspense debut from an author to watch! I’ve been following this author on social media for years and was beyond excited when she announced the release of her first book! I was drawn into this story on page one and it held me captivated until I reached the end! This author knows how to pen a gripping story that will keep the reader up past their bedtime because they need to know what happens!
I love a small town setting, particularly in a suspense book. Something about a cozy small town where everyone knows and cares about each other juxtaposed with the suspenseful threat of a killer on the loose, always grabs my attention and immediately engages me in the story! I loved my first visit to Kincaid, Kentucky and cannot wait to return in book two of this series!
The suspense in this book was splendidly written, and I loved this author’s voice and the unique and original twists she brought to the suspense genre! I did guess the villain correctly which absolutely thrilled my inner armchair detective!
I also absolutely loved the faith story in this book. It’s beautifully written, and so relatable! God definitely spoke to my heart through this story, and though, thank the Lord I have not personally experienced any of the same things Corina did, her journey encouraged me in my own walk with Jesus!
Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes and Corina and Bryce’s story was so sweet and it was a joy to watch their love slowly rekindle. I would have loved a few more kisses between them, but that’s just personal preference, and did not impact my overall enjoyment of this story!
I absolutely loved Secondary Target and most highly recommend it! Romantic suspense readers will devour this one and rush to pre-order book two as soon it’s up!
Angela Carlisle is a sensational addition to the Christian romantic suspense genre and I cannot wait to read her next book!
Make sure to add Secondary Target to your TBR. This is one book you do not wanna miss!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher!
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own

[Dana Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to this book and really enjoyed it. This is from a debut author and I truly believe Ms. Carlisle will have a long and successful career. I had no idea who the bad guy was. It was quite the shock for me. There is a little bit of romance for you romance lovers and a lot of action for you suspense thriller readers.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a debut, fun fast paced read. I love secrets and second chances. So, this was right up my alley. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.
Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Angela Carlisle debut novel and honestly I couldn't believe it. She writes like a seasoned author! I was captivated right from the start. This story centers around Corina whose past comes to haunt her in the present. This forces her to rekindle her relationship with hunky Bryce Jessup who is an Army veteran.

This story is all about uncovering secrets and being forgiven for past mistakes. Corina's past is hard. Her family was murdered for what seems no apparent reason. Her dad has kept this from her and when she finds out she is left with lots of questions but no answers especially when someone comes after her. Personally she is also struggling with guilt regarding Bryce's younger brother.

The story is full of action and some twists and turns. The characters were well developed but I did struggle a bit with the romantic aspect between Corina and Bryce. At times it felt like their chemistry truly didn't spark. Maybe we will get a better connection with them in the next book. The mystery aspect was very well done and I didn't have a clue who it was until it was revealed so to me that makes for a great story. Elements of faith were throughout the storyline which I definitely appreciated.

Overall I thought it was a good book and can't wait to read more from this author. If you enjoy Lynette Eason or Lynette Blackburn you will enjoy this author as well!

I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great debut novel! It has you holding on til the end of the ride. The characters, the faith and the story played really well together.

I especially loved the mystery, I loved that the author decided to have a pov of the killer. I find a story more engaging when an author divulges what the bad guys are thinking.

The story had me guessing until the very end and I'm pleased to say that I did get it right! Even though I figured it out as only a passing thought.

I loved the characters and I can't wait to see what the author does next.

*thank you to Baker Publishing and Bethany House for a copy of this book to read and review. All thoughts are my own.

[Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating: 3.5 stars

Secondary Target is a tense, compelling romantic suspense. This series opener introduces us to the sleepy town of Kincaid, proving that even the calmest of hometowns can suffer from insidious infiltrations and dark crimes lurking beneath the surface. I found the pacing of the story pretty spot on. I was engaged and invested in the plot, even if I frequently found myself irritated with the characters. Specifically with Corina, our female protagonist and main perspective character. But apart from her poor decision making and the slightly shoehorned-in feel of the faith element, this was an enjoyable read.

In Secondary Target, we are introduced to Corina, who is staying with her over-protective and paranoid father while work is being done on her own home. Corina has suffered a lot of loss in her life, causing her to cut herself off from most relationships, from friendships to her relationship with God. Apart from her crisis of faith, the other greatest relational loss outside of deaths has to be the breakup of her romance with Bryce, her first and only love.

Enter Bryce, recently returned home from his military service. He has no idea that Corina is even still in town, much less essentially his neighbor across the street while she’s bunking with her dad. He tries to stay out of her way, but circumstances keep throwing them together. When Corina calls him in a panic when someone tries to run her down in an SUV, Bryce is determined to protect her at all costs. And if their close proximity provides them with the opportunity to heal—and perhaps offer them a second chance at love—so much the better.

The suspense element of this, with a faceless evil targeting Corina, was really engaging. I enjoyed the mystery of trying to discern who was out to get her and why. But this is where a lot of my irritation with her character came into place. You know that experience of yelling at the characters in a horror movie because they keep making dumb choices that put them in further danger? I felt that Corina made equally poor decisions when it came to her own safety. I rolled my eyes at her more than once.

But when Corina finally decided to open her heart back up to God, she started exhibiting more wisdom in her choices. While I enjoyed reading this shift, and always appreciate an element of faith in a story, I can see where some readers might find the Christian aspect of the story to feel shoehorned into the rest of the plot. Aside from those two complaints, this was an immersive story and a promising start to a series. I’ll definitely be picking up Shadowed Witness, the second installment!

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know, I've never really wondered before how authors can sleep after researching for, and writing, certain books (well, I HAVE wondered about Jaime Jo Wright. But doesn't everyone?). But I have to ask: Angela Carlisle, HOW did/do you sleep? You HAVE to be having nightmares from the research you must have done.

I'm not trying to scare anyone away from this book-it's a FABULOUS book, but it is DEFINITELY a thrill ride! Whew! I'm just glad my husband's been here while I read it!

If you're looking for a Christian thriller from a debut author that will keep your heart pounding, look no further.

Now. Where do I preorder the next one???

~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~

[Tasha (the_clean_read_book_club) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m always intrigued with a romantic suspense. This one definitely leans to the suspense side and not a whole lot to the romance side.

I thought this book was well written and once I hit a few chapters I knew that I wouldn’t be putting it down until I knew how it ended.

This book is not for the faint of heart. I’m not sure what so expected with a serial killer stalker, but it was more intense than I imagined it would be.

This would be a great book for those who love true crime and books filled with murderous suspense and mystery.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Content: murder, stalking, serial killer, revenge, baited attacks, drugged attacks, and minimal romance.

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an amazing start to The Secrets of Kincaid series! A total page-turner with mysteries just waiting to be uncovered, and even a sweet second-chance romance waiting for its moment.

Someone is targeting Corina, and it might be the same person who killed her mom and brother years ago. Now that she and her dad are being threatened, and she seems to be the main target, she needs help before the criminal succeeds. Enter Bryce, her ex-boyfriend, and Allye, her closest friend.

Corina and Bryce once had a future, but tragedy tore them apart. Maybe now, by leaning on each other and on God, they’ll get a second chance at love, faith, and the healing her family needs.

This story really kept me turning the pages. The heartbreak that Corina, Bryce, and Allye went through explains why moving on has been so hard. But when the past comes creeping in, they’ll have to face it to move forward, and what a journey that turns out to be.

This is a romantic suspense, but honestly, it’s more suspense with a touch of romance, just enough to keep me hooked. I’m ready for book 2 and Allye’s story! I’m glad we’ve already met her and Eric and know a bit of their backstory, so I’m all set!

[Jacquelyn 💐 {This Rapunzel Reads} [Jesus Christ, my Living Hope] · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! This was heart pounding and chilling! I didn’t love the romance between Corina and Bryce. I don’t know why…maybe because I’m not the biggest fan of second chance romance. It just took me a bit to really enjoy them. But the mystery grabbed a hold of me and sucked me in especially the last few chapters! I didn’t guess who the killer was! Man, was he evil and sick! The ending with the killer could have been done better in my opinion...it wrapped up a bit fast. Also, there are quite a few people who die and it is a bit descriptive so if that bothers you, this might not be for you. I really liked Allye so I’m excited for her story! The faith content was really good and I really enjoyed that part of it! Overall, I thought it was a good and captivating mystery! I would recommend for those who love a faith filled and heart racing mystery with romance!

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW - Secondary Target - Angela Carlisle - 4/5 Stars

THE STORY
I'm happy to share a new author with you today, Angela Carlisle! Now I love suspense stories however I always feel a bit bad for the MCs because of everything they have to go through. Angela Carlisle takes this to a whole new level, poor Corina! That girl's entire life gets turned upside down by her stalker! I liked that I was as much in the dark as to who the killer was as the MCs and didn't find out until they did. It was like reading Criminal Minds or some other crime show. Corina is such a strong character but I liked how she still recognized her need for help, not that Bryce would've taken no for an answer, he had all those delicious protective vibes!

THE ROMANCE
This was one of those books that has a lot of romantic thoughts but not many romantic moments. In books, there's always a fine line between realistic and fiction, realistically romance under those circumstances is not the right time but fictionally it's what romance readers like me want. So I respected the author's more realistic take but personally would've preferred more romance, especially as second chance is one of my favourites!

THE TRUTHS
As much as we hate trouble, it is what tests our faith. When trouble cones, do we lean closer to God and trust in His strength and goodness? Or do we turn away and doubt His presence and promises? It's easy to trust God when things are good but it's when things are bad that we really need Him and have to really trust Him. We have to choose to believe in His goodness and presence despite what we see around us and trust in His promises, that He is in control.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Exciting, Thrilling and Terrifying!

With a strong, challenge-ready heroine, author Angela Carlisle delivers a heart-pounding novel that kept me turning the pages late into the night.

WHAT I LIKED:
The fast pace that remained consistent throughout the story
A sense of urgency that kept me wanting to devour the pages
A mysterious, thriller vibe that kept me guessing
Alternating points of view between the hero and heroine.
A second-chance-at-love romance with tension and chemistry
Former military hero and headstrong heroine
A heroic rescue
Small town setting

OTHER NOTES:
A lot of the story seemed to take place in one location and I found that to be somewhat challenging for me. However, two thirds through the story, the scene settings changed more frequently making the story more enjoyable. In addition, the excitement ramps up and the climax leads to a satisfying ending which had exactly what I hoped for!

The story does offer a handful of scenes from the villains POV which is something of a pet-peeve of mine as my personal preference is NOT to be in the villain's head. However, Carlisle uses this to her advantage and I found I didn't dislike it as much as I have in other books.

Overall, I really liked this romantic suspense which had a healthy dose of both romance and pulse-pounding action. There's also a light faith thread that shines bright towards the ending and makes the story heartwarming. A recommended read for readers who enjoy authors such as Lynette Eason, Nancy Mehl and Elizabeth Goddard.

Content and Trigger Warnings: PG13. Not Descriptive Murder, Murder of a Loved One (Including a child), Stalking, Kidnapping

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.

[Ashley Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Secondary Target by Angela Carlisle drew me in with the promise of an intriguing plot and a possible serial killer! Say less! This was my first read from this author so I went into this book open minded. I liked the overall concept of this story, but the pacing felt a little slow and it seemed to lack intensity. Moments that I anticipated having me on the edge of my seat felt a bit lacking. I struggled a bit with the fact that the father was hiding so much from his daughter that she was rifling through file drawers in her own home to find out what he was hiding. She was an adult and it seemed odd that the father wouldn’t prepare her for potential threats based on past events. The killer had the upper hand for the entire book and it just became such a source of irritation for me. I wasn’t attached to any of the characters. Corina was difficult to like, and didn’t seem at all grateful for her friends basically putting their lives on hold 24/7 to keep her safe. The romance was basically non-existent and when it did spark at close to 80% of the book, it was really out of no where. Sadly this was not the book for me, however someone else may really enjoy this story.

[Carly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wowza! What a debut! Reading this flew by; it was easily one of the hardest books to put down that I've ever read. Totally non-stop (literally) from the first page, the POVs from Corina and Bryce kept everything very fast-paced; and the villian's perspective was waaaay beyond eerie and creepy. Honestly, it was a bit too creepy and triggering at times for me personally; but if you're more comfortable than I am with super crime-y suspense, you'll probably like this even more!
I thought the author did an excellent job on Corina and Bryce's backstory and their second chance romance despite the crazy circumstances they once again find themselves in.
Corina's journey of letting God's grace and love back into her life was sooo relatable. Trial after trial, loss after loss slammed Corina, leaving her wondering if God too had left her. But, she comes full circle in believing that He always provides a peace which passes all understanding, and her faith and trust in Him is more sure and steadfast than what her feelings may be telling her or her fears of further loss. (2 Corinthians 5:7❤) Such a powerful reminder! I'll definitely be on the lookout for future books by this author!

[Shanaia · Rating 3 out of 5]

A page-turner story that got me nervous and jittery while reading it.

I thought it was a pretty good debut, though I thought the protagonists were underdogs for most of the book and didn't seem to be actively doing anything against the very serious murder threats.

I appreciate Corina's friends Bryce and Allye for literally putting themselves in danger just so she won't be alone. I love that we get multiple POVs (even with a disturbing one from the stalker/killer) because we get to see the situation from different angles.

As an anxious person, I don't think suspense/thriller novels are for me 🫣 But I appreciate the faith elements in this story, truly, God is always in control even though we might not always feel Him moving.

I received a complementary copy from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Kristine Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although Secondary Target is Angela Carlisle's debut novel it definitely reads like she is and established author. The plot flows smoothly but sucks you in with plot twists and edge of your seat suspense. I love Corina and Bryce with Houston an added bonus. Ms. Carlisle paints the settings with her words the way an artist paints a picture. Her writing style reminds me of Lynn Blackburn or Lynette Eason. I will admit that I did guess the identity of the bad guy before the end of the book and was delighted to find I was right. I look forward to reading more of Angela Carlisle's books.

So curl up in a cozy reading chair and settle in for a great read!

I was given a copy of Secondary Target with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Carlisle’s debut romantic suspense novel kicks off The Secrets of Kincaid series. The fast-paced, action-packed plot pulled me in from the beginning and kept me engaged and guessing all the way to the surprising ending. Suspense runs high in Kincaid, Kentucky, as an unknown, unstable, and seemingly unstoppable assailant’s taunting turns to murder in his quest for revenge. The characters, main and secondary, are engaging and realistic. I love how Corina and Bryce’s second chance love story develops amid all the danger and mayhem. I appreciate the meaningful faith thread woven throughout the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Amanda Geaney]

"Secondary Target" by Angela Carlisle introduces readers to a world filled with danger and a hint of romance. As a debut novel in the Christian romantic suspense genre, Carlisle offers a story that ambitiously aims to blend the thrilling pursuit of a serial killer with the tender reconciliation of lost loves. The narrative centers around Corina Roberts, whose tragic past collides with her present, forcing her into an uneasy alliance with Bryce Jessup, her army veteran ex-boyfriend.

While the premise promises excitement and the protective father element adds depth, the novel struggles to maintain a gripping sense of tension. The chemistry between Corina and Bryce feels underdeveloped, leaving their relationship lacking the spark typically found in second-chance romances. Despite these drawbacks, Carlisle's work is a commendable effort for a new voice in the genre. Her exploration of themes such as courage in the face of fear and the quest for truth amidst a web of secrets may appeal to readers eager to support emerging authors. "Secondary Target" is recommended for those interested in discovering fresh talent and who appreciate stories of resilience.

I received this book from the publisher through the NetGalley review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[2muchtime · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was a lot. I have a hard time believing that someone would choose to stay in a house after the killer has shot their dog, sent multiple packages to the address with photos, SNEAKS IN TO CUT HER HAIR(???), mails her the hair, kills a police officer and stuffs him in her cellar... then attempts to burn the place down. But she just stays. And her dad randomly getting mugged?? How many "suspenseful" items do we need to squish into one book? A lot apparently.

And that's not even counting the stuff that happens OUTSIDE her house.

The romance was very...blah.

I'm exhausted.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Buckle up, dear readers – and take a few deep breaths before you start reading this book – because you may forget to supply yourself with oxygen from the very first line onward. I mean… a book that begins with “Security alarms shattered the autumn morning’s tranquility” has me on high alert right away and there wasn’t a lot of time to relax in the plot’s entirety. Which I love in a romantic suspense novel. I want to be glued to the page, biting my nails, holding my breath, and fully immersed in the race for survival/search for clues all the way to the story’s end – and Secondary Target by Angela Carlisle delivered exactly that!

Corina is very likable and it’s easy for readers to sympathize with not only her current plight but also her tragic past and how her subsequent grief has fractured her faith and her hope for a happily-ever-after. She wrestles with questions that most of us have when faced with shocking loss, and her faith journey felt honest and realistic without being trite or forced. Bryce has his own demons to battle, not the least of which is how things ended between him and Corina a few years before. Just because the relationship is broken, however, doesn’t mean the feelings are gone, and I enjoyed watching them reconnect and work through their hurt together. Into the mix, Carlisle adds a great cast of supporting characters – including local law enforcement, Corina’s loyal dog Houston, and bag-toting/free spirit Allye (Bryce’s sister & Corina’s BFF) – and a twisted & riveting suspense plot that had me catching my breath in surprise more than once. Like…. there were a couple of turns that I really did not see coming and I always admire an author that can do that for me.

Secondary Target also marks the third time this week that I’ve been able to re-visit my old Kentucky home on the pages of fiction (the other two were A Run at Love and The Song of Sourwood Mountain) and while this one wasn’t super atmospheric as far as the setting (because, you know, they’re doing the minor thing of RUNNING FOR THEIR LIVES haha) I still loved being back in the Bluegrass state again. There’s something inherently peaceful about Kentucky, and I love when I get to read suspense novels set here because it’s such a great contrast to its natural mood & enhances the drama for me.

Bottom Line: Angela Carlisle bursts onto the romantic suspense scene with Secondary Target, a compelling debut novel that also quite nicely kicks off a brand new series. And I’m already eager for the next book because it involves two of my fave supporting characters from this one. The layered plot hooks you right away and keeps you riveted to the pages as you devour every word, knowing that you can (probably) count on a happily-ever-after resolution but not at all sure what the characters will have to go through to get there. I also appreciated the faith thread and Carlisle’s willingness to let Corina and Bryce share their doubts and raw emotions with readers and with each other. If you’re a fan of Patricia Bradley’s Pearl River series, Lynn H. Blackburn’s Gossamer Falls series, or Laura Scott’s Smoky Mountain Secrets series then you absolutely need to read Secondary Target too!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower