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Callahan & McLane #1
Vanished
When an eleven-year-old is abducted on her way to school, the FBI doesn’t waste a moment, sending agents to scour the area and embedding Special Agent Ava McLane with the distraught family. In the eye of the storm is local detective Mason Callahan, whose life is crumbling to pieces—he’s related to the victim, and his longtime confidential informant has just been murdered.
Both he and Agent McLane hole up in the victim’s family home. Every second counts in a kidnapping case, and the stakes keep rising the longer the girl is missing. As Ava and Mason struggle to hold the family together in their darkest hour, the two investigators find themselves drawn to each other.
Both he and Agent McLane hole up in the victim’s family home. Every second counts in a kidnapping case, and the stakes keep rising the longer the girl is missing. As Ava and Mason struggle to hold the family together in their darkest hour, the two investigators find themselves drawn to each other.
327 pages, Paperback
First published June 17, 2014
11018 people are currently reading
11332 people want to read
About the author
Kendra Elliot
39 books6,368 followersAn Amazon #1 selling author, Kendra Elliot has sold over 14 Million books and been on the WSJ best seller more than a dozen times.
She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives, but spends most of the time in the high desert in flip flops.
She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives, but spends most of the time in the high desert in flip flops.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,286 reviews
August 20, 2016
A Great Mystery/Suspense
This was my first Kendra Elliot book and I enjoyed it quite a bit. Mystery/suspense isn't my preferred genre. I love to have a little suspense with my romances, but I definitely want the love story to be front and center. Having the mystery be the focal point, rather than taking a back seat to the romance was a change of pace for me. In the end, it worked for me this time.
This story centers around the kidnapping of a young girl and the investigation into her disappearance. As time passes, new clues begin to surface that take the investigation in a new direction. It becomes clear that this was not a random abduction.
Layer by layer, the story unfolds. One murder. One kidnapping. One motive. Even once they've pieced together who the culprit is, they're powerless to do anything other than wait for the next move.
There is some romance, but it is slow-building and secondary to the mystery. For this story, it worked. With all of the tension, I'm not sure I would've been able to focus on a lovey dovey romance anyway. I was completely absorbed in this story.
Overall, I thought this was a great story. It kept me interested, but wasn't difficult to follow. I listened to the Audible version and it was nicely done. It was a something out of the norm for me. All in all, a good choice.
This was my first Kendra Elliot book and I enjoyed it quite a bit. Mystery/suspense isn't my preferred genre. I love to have a little suspense with my romances, but I definitely want the love story to be front and center. Having the mystery be the focal point, rather than taking a back seat to the romance was a change of pace for me. In the end, it worked for me this time.
This story centers around the kidnapping of a young girl and the investigation into her disappearance. As time passes, new clues begin to surface that take the investigation in a new direction. It becomes clear that this was not a random abduction.
Layer by layer, the story unfolds. One murder. One kidnapping. One motive. Even once they've pieced together who the culprit is, they're powerless to do anything other than wait for the next move.
There is some romance, but it is slow-building and secondary to the mystery. For this story, it worked. With all of the tension, I'm not sure I would've been able to focus on a lovey dovey romance anyway. I was completely absorbed in this story.
Overall, I thought this was a great story. It kept me interested, but wasn't difficult to follow. I listened to the Audible version and it was nicely done. It was a something out of the norm for me. All in all, a good choice.
June 6, 2020
When an eleven year old girl goes missing on her way to school family member Mason Callahan, a local detective, is immediately called. With the help of Special Agent Ava McLane of the FBI, Mason is determined to find the girl, however his professionalism is being compromised with the murder of one of his informants... and all the evidence points to Mason.
As Mason and Ava hunt for the girl strange things start to happen to family members, with belongings going missing, and as time passes the hope of finding the girl gets dimmer. With Mason battling on two fronts, and things becoming dire, he also finds himself being drawn to Ava. Yet who is behind the kidnapping? Why would anyone target this girl? And who did kill the informant if it wasn't Mason? To find the answers Mason and Ava have to dig deep.
An enjoyable book, Vanished has believable, realistic characters and a plausible plotline. Kendra Elliot has woven a tale that will sneak up and grab you, not letting go until the final, satisfying conclusion. This is the first of the author's books I have read, but will happily keep my eye out for her other works in the future.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
As Mason and Ava hunt for the girl strange things start to happen to family members, with belongings going missing, and as time passes the hope of finding the girl gets dimmer. With Mason battling on two fronts, and things becoming dire, he also finds himself being drawn to Ava. Yet who is behind the kidnapping? Why would anyone target this girl? And who did kill the informant if it wasn't Mason? To find the answers Mason and Ava have to dig deep.
An enjoyable book, Vanished has believable, realistic characters and a plausible plotline. Kendra Elliot has woven a tale that will sneak up and grab you, not letting go until the final, satisfying conclusion. This is the first of the author's books I have read, but will happily keep my eye out for her other works in the future.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
January 24, 2016
New author for me. Kept me on my toes the whole time. Very engaging and likeable characters. Yes, a bit of romance and sex thrown in there to whet my appetite.
... And Bingo was his name-o ...
When eleven-year-old Henley Fairbanks is abducted on her way to school, the FBI doesn’t waste a moment, sending agents to scour the area and embedding Special Agent Ava McLane with the distraught family. In the eye of the storm is local detective Mason Callahan, who also happens to be related to Henley. To make matters worse for Mason, the kidnapping comes on the heels of the murder of his longtime confidential informant, and he’s been sidelined from the investigation.
An eye for an eye.
"Have you ever loved someone, and the existence of that emotion was completely out of your control? Someone who knows you inside and out? Someone who is closer to you than anyone in the world? That deep-down soul connection where you physically fell them moving about int the world?"
"Can I take you home, Ava?".
"Do you remember me asking if I've ever loved someone where the emotion was totally out of my control?"
... And Bingo was his name-o ...
February 2, 2016
3.5 Stars
I really must get in a better routine of writing reviews as soon as I finish a book. I easily get sidetracked with another book and then I forget to come back and write it
Anywhoo….. This was another first time author for me. Vanished by Kendra Elliot ended up being a book that I will add to my “liked it but didn’t love it” shelf.
Mason Callahan was a detective that had been at his job for a while. He was a no frills kind of guy who lived his life for his job. The heroine Special Agent Ava McLane was a lot like Mason. She lived her life for her job too but hadn’t been at it as long as Mason had. Both of them fell short in the romance department because their jobs left very little room for anything else.
When an abduction of a young girl within Mason’s immediate family circle strikes, their paths cross. Both of them are thrown together to try and save this little girl and as things begin to unfold Ava is walking a fine line with Mason. She is one for rules and order but being around Mason causes her to break a rule she swore she would never break again.
The little girl’s disappearance has sent Mason’s life into a bit of a tailspin. But it just isn’t her disappearance that has shaken his world. Someone is playing with his life and he has no clue who it is. When Ava works her way under his skin he knows he shouldn’t be tempted by her but he is. ❤
The plot was good, and it had a promising start. I was intrigued with what was happening but for me, it just flat lined in the middle. I needed a little more excitement but I didn’t get that until just about at the 75% mark. When some twists were revealed and things began to pick up I found myself once again intrigued.
Overall it was a good read but in the end I ended up just liking it. At the moment I am not sure when I will get to book #2 but I’m guessing I will give it a go sometime.
I really must get in a better routine of writing reviews as soon as I finish a book. I easily get sidetracked with another book and then I forget to come back and write it
Anywhoo….. This was another first time author for me. Vanished by Kendra Elliot ended up being a book that I will add to my “liked it but didn’t love it” shelf.
Mason Callahan was a detective that had been at his job for a while. He was a no frills kind of guy who lived his life for his job. The heroine Special Agent Ava McLane was a lot like Mason. She lived her life for her job too but hadn’t been at it as long as Mason had. Both of them fell short in the romance department because their jobs left very little room for anything else.
When an abduction of a young girl within Mason’s immediate family circle strikes, their paths cross. Both of them are thrown together to try and save this little girl and as things begin to unfold Ava is walking a fine line with Mason. She is one for rules and order but being around Mason causes her to break a rule she swore she would never break again.
The little girl’s disappearance has sent Mason’s life into a bit of a tailspin. But it just isn’t her disappearance that has shaken his world. Someone is playing with his life and he has no clue who it is. When Ava works her way under his skin he knows he shouldn’t be tempted by her but he is. ❤
The plot was good, and it had a promising start. I was intrigued with what was happening but for me, it just flat lined in the middle. I needed a little more excitement but I didn’t get that until just about at the 75% mark. When some twists were revealed and things began to pick up I found myself once again intrigued.
Overall it was a good read but in the end I ended up just liking it. At the moment I am not sure when I will get to book #2 but I’m guessing I will give it a go sometime.
October 8, 2019
5 STARS!
It's Henley. She's missing.
Detective Mason Callahan can't believe what has transpired in the past 24 hours. They had just discovered the body of one of his informants, and now his ex-wife's stepdaughter is missing. He finds himself in the Fairbanks' home trying to help find eleven-year-old Henley. The FBI is swarming the area within hours trying to dig up details that could lead to the little girl. Agent Ava McLane has captured Mason's attention with her sultry voice and brains. When the police find evidence linking Mason to the murder case, Ava is willing to help Mason any way she can. However, all Mason needs is someone to believe in him and someone to help him save little Henley Fairbanks.
I really enjoyed this book. Elliott was able to suck me in from the very first chapter. As the story unfolds, it became increasingly difficult not to get drawn into this mysterious crime novel. I found myself taking breaks just to see if I could narrow it down to person behind it all. I was just as determined as Mason and Ava to figure out what happened to little Henley - as well as the murdered informant. Their relationship has me excited to continue with the series as I am curious to see them interact in the future books. Always the romantic...
It's Henley. She's missing.
Detective Mason Callahan can't believe what has transpired in the past 24 hours. They had just discovered the body of one of his informants, and now his ex-wife's stepdaughter is missing. He finds himself in the Fairbanks' home trying to help find eleven-year-old Henley. The FBI is swarming the area within hours trying to dig up details that could lead to the little girl. Agent Ava McLane has captured Mason's attention with her sultry voice and brains. When the police find evidence linking Mason to the murder case, Ava is willing to help Mason any way she can. However, all Mason needs is someone to believe in him and someone to help him save little Henley Fairbanks.
I really enjoyed this book. Elliott was able to suck me in from the very first chapter. As the story unfolds, it became increasingly difficult not to get drawn into this mysterious crime novel. I found myself taking breaks just to see if I could narrow it down to person behind it all. I was just as determined as Mason and Ava to figure out what happened to little Henley - as well as the murdered informant. Their relationship has me excited to continue with the series as I am curious to see them interact in the future books. Always the romantic...
October 1, 2020
It was a regular weekday morning when 11-year old Henley Fairbanks waved goodbye to her stepmother Robin, turned the corner to go to her bus stop and vanished. It wasn’t until the afternoon that it became clear she was missing. FBI Agent Ava McLane was one of the first to be contacted and embedded with the family. Oregon State Police Detective Mason Callahan came to help as his son lived in the household with his ex-wife and stepfather. Jake was home from college for the holidays so this blended family quickly became a united front as law enforcement teams assembled to figure out what happened to Henley. In the meantime, Mason is grappling with issues of his own as he’s now on the outside of the investigation into the brutal murder of one of his confidential informants.
Anytime a story involves a missing child, I’m nervous from the onset as it’s impossible for me not to experience the despair vicariously. The FBI procedurals were fascinating as the haste, scope and scale of their investigation was impressive. Ava was also impressive and I liked her immediately. She’s smart, driven and highly observant. She provided the bridge to the family and the FBI, providing both perspectives. Mason is the more opaque character who is admirable but his career is his life. Both have interesting backstories but his is the one that becomes the most intriguing.
I really liked this story and the characters. The romance between Mason and Eva was a slow burn that didn’t overwhelm the primary storyline, which was heartbreaking. I thought the tension and helplessness the family experienced was perfectly captured as I felt what they did. The search for Henley was suspenseful and it never let up. You’ll have to read it yourself to learn the outcome. I’m hooked already but as this is a spinoff of Bone Secrets, I’m pausing until I finish that series before resuming this one. I’ve incentive to do so quickly because I want more of Ava and Mason.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Anytime a story involves a missing child, I’m nervous from the onset as it’s impossible for me not to experience the despair vicariously. The FBI procedurals were fascinating as the haste, scope and scale of their investigation was impressive. Ava was also impressive and I liked her immediately. She’s smart, driven and highly observant. She provided the bridge to the family and the FBI, providing both perspectives. Mason is the more opaque character who is admirable but his career is his life. Both have interesting backstories but his is the one that becomes the most intriguing.
I really liked this story and the characters. The romance between Mason and Eva was a slow burn that didn’t overwhelm the primary storyline, which was heartbreaking. I thought the tension and helplessness the family experienced was perfectly captured as I felt what they did. The search for Henley was suspenseful and it never let up. You’ll have to read it yourself to learn the outcome. I’m hooked already but as this is a spinoff of Bone Secrets, I’m pausing until I finish that series before resuming this one. I’ve incentive to do so quickly because I want more of Ava and Mason.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
November 30, 2022
Ava McLane is an FBI agent assigned to liaison with the family of the kidnapped liite girl. She and Mason are dedicated to uncovering the reason Henley was taken and to bringing her home. In working together, they find that there is much more to what has happened than just a simple kidnapping. With few clues to follow, they gradually uncover a vengeance plot that has taken meticulous planning and implementation. They also uncover a respect for each other, and these two dedicated people find a rare passion for something other than their jobs. This is a story of intrigue, suspense, revenge, and family. Even though Elliot's story starts out with the murder of one of Callahan's confidential informants, the story's focus is one of the turns of events after that murder. Elliot throws her readers a curve when the story changes direction and focuses on the kidnapping of a young eleven-year-girl. Both agents have issues from their pasts. As Callahan deals with his issues and McLane deals with hers, they both feel comfortable in each other's company. I liked that the story kept me guessing about the ending right up to the last page. Not a 5-star read since the story kind of skipped from past to present without much warning, but it certainly was a 4-star read.
January 26, 2016
I've read other books by this author and this was a good read. The mystery was good. She had me thinking it was someone else for a moment until I figured it out way before the story was over. Still it was an enjoyable read.
February 26, 2015
Vanished by Kendra Elliot is a 2014 Montlake publication.
Kendra Elliot has a style of writing I really enjoy and dived into this one with gusto. As the book opens, I was sure we were heading onto a certain well worn path, one I like to read about, a tense whodunit, but in fact I was being lured off onto a less traveled road when the story took on a different tack and a hair raising thriller suddenly took over.
Mason, a local detective, is saddened to learn a prostitute and informer he has worked with on occasion was found murdered. What he didn't understand was how his fingerprints got into her apartment. Before he can figure out what was going on with this case, he gets an urgent phone call from his ex-wife, Robin, explaining her young step-daughter has gone missing. With their son home for the holidays, Mason takes some personal time to try and help the family find Henley.
Naturally when an child goes missing, the FBI gets called in. Ava McLane has special skills when it comes to dealing with families in crisis. But, she has a few personal family problems of her own to deal with. In the course of this harrowing investigation Mason and Ava make a connection. But, with Mason being looked at as a person of interest in the prostitute murder, the romance could be doomed.
This story started out like so many others with the kidnapped child trope, in books or real life. The family is scrutinized closely because we are all well aware by now of the statistics of “stranger” abductions. The media storms in and all sorts of weirdos come out of woodwork looking for attention. But, as time passes it would appear that somehow Mason is connected to the case when it becomes more and more apparent someone is out to ruin him.
This story was edgy and suspenseful from the very beginning. I suspected everyone in one way or another, but I never imagined the story would turn out the way it did. The romance in this one was slightly off kilter, perhaps a little rushed. I didn't really feel the emotional connection between Mason and Ava. Ava's personal problems were sad, but I wondered in the end why so much time was spent on this thread.
I thought this experience made Mason realize his past mistakes with his family as he is suddenly ridden with guilt and regret, so he might approach life and work in a different way from now on.
While this one was not a cohesive as other novels I have read by this author, it was still an absorbing and fast paced thriller. 3.5 rounded to 4
Kendra Elliot has a style of writing I really enjoy and dived into this one with gusto. As the book opens, I was sure we were heading onto a certain well worn path, one I like to read about, a tense whodunit, but in fact I was being lured off onto a less traveled road when the story took on a different tack and a hair raising thriller suddenly took over.
Mason, a local detective, is saddened to learn a prostitute and informer he has worked with on occasion was found murdered. What he didn't understand was how his fingerprints got into her apartment. Before he can figure out what was going on with this case, he gets an urgent phone call from his ex-wife, Robin, explaining her young step-daughter has gone missing. With their son home for the holidays, Mason takes some personal time to try and help the family find Henley.
Naturally when an child goes missing, the FBI gets called in. Ava McLane has special skills when it comes to dealing with families in crisis. But, she has a few personal family problems of her own to deal with. In the course of this harrowing investigation Mason and Ava make a connection. But, with Mason being looked at as a person of interest in the prostitute murder, the romance could be doomed.
This story started out like so many others with the kidnapped child trope, in books or real life. The family is scrutinized closely because we are all well aware by now of the statistics of “stranger” abductions. The media storms in and all sorts of weirdos come out of woodwork looking for attention. But, as time passes it would appear that somehow Mason is connected to the case when it becomes more and more apparent someone is out to ruin him.
This story was edgy and suspenseful from the very beginning. I suspected everyone in one way or another, but I never imagined the story would turn out the way it did. The romance in this one was slightly off kilter, perhaps a little rushed. I didn't really feel the emotional connection between Mason and Ava. Ava's personal problems were sad, but I wondered in the end why so much time was spent on this thread.
I thought this experience made Mason realize his past mistakes with his family as he is suddenly ridden with guilt and regret, so he might approach life and work in a different way from now on.
While this one was not a cohesive as other novels I have read by this author, it was still an absorbing and fast paced thriller. 3.5 rounded to 4
March 28, 2021
2.75 stars.
As I mentioned in my updates, Eve Dallas ruined me for other female investigators 😳🥴😂.
So, I understand that and I’m not really expecting that level of commitment with a job like hers.
However this one is a new low level, and asked myself, did a special agent FBI’s job really this boring? You can tell me all the reason why isn’t, but I don’t want to read a suspense story where the main characters spent half of the book just at home and tried to soothe the grieving family!
Then the hero, never read someone like him before.
He lost his son and wife to his work, then when he is in a situation where he could be losing his job too, he was so blasè about it! 😳. And his excuse a tad ridiculous too, he wanted to devote his time to help his ex’s family, seriously? Him? A guy who rarely spent time with his son? And now when all his life work had been threatened, he didn’t do anything about it because he wanted to help? And you know how he helped? By baby sitting them too, like that FBI agent’s job! Then his bloody job problems just ended like that? 🤨😐
Also, the mystery not that hard 🙄.
I’ve got my question answer after that airport missing suitcase and first try abduction! 🤷♀️
Oh, don’t forget the drama with the sister, and modern family exes! Duh 🙄
However, despite all my rants, I wanted to know how’s the story end. Ms. Elliot’s writing style is good, eventhought I complaints a lot, I read all the pages, that’s including the boring bits! 😜
Also, I have the first four books for sometimes now, I better get on with it and finished this series 😘.
❤️
As I mentioned in my updates, Eve Dallas ruined me for other female investigators 😳🥴😂.
So, I understand that and I’m not really expecting that level of commitment with a job like hers.
However this one is a new low level, and asked myself, did a special agent FBI’s job really this boring? You can tell me all the reason why isn’t, but I don’t want to read a suspense story where the main characters spent half of the book just at home and tried to soothe the grieving family!
Then the hero, never read someone like him before.
He lost his son and wife to his work, then when he is in a situation where he could be losing his job too, he was so blasè about it! 😳. And his excuse a tad ridiculous too, he wanted to devote his time to help his ex’s family, seriously? Him? A guy who rarely spent time with his son? And now when all his life work had been threatened, he didn’t do anything about it because he wanted to help? And you know how he helped? By baby sitting them too, like that FBI agent’s job! Then his bloody job problems just ended like that? 🤨😐
Also, the mystery not that hard 🙄.
I’ve got my question answer after that airport missing suitcase and first try abduction! 🤷♀️
Oh, don’t forget the drama with the sister, and modern family exes! Duh 🙄
However, despite all my rants, I wanted to know how’s the story end. Ms. Elliot’s writing style is good, eventhought I complaints a lot, I read all the pages, that’s including the boring bits! 😜
Also, I have the first four books for sometimes now, I better get on with it and finished this series 😘.
❤️
March 31, 2021
Rereading for group buddy read! March 2021
Great start to the series! Loved the blend of suspense & romance. I'll be continuing the series.
Great start to the series! Loved the blend of suspense & romance. I'll be continuing the series.
July 28, 2017
3.5 stars
This book opens at a crime scene. Mason Callahan's CI (confidential informant) has been murdered. To make matters worse, his fingerprints are all over her apartment. Has he been in her apartment? Yes, but not in the places where his fingerprints have been found. To make his day even worse, his ex-wife's 11 year old step daughter has gone missing. She left the home in the morning headed to school but never arrived. Who would take her and why? His son is also back in town due to being on a college break and their relationship is strained. Having his step-sister kidnapped does not help matters. Mason attempts to be supportive of his son even if their interactions are uncomfortable.
Mason is attempting to help his ex-wife, her husband and their children cope with the kidnapping. He is acting as the family liaison since he cannot investigate the missing girl as she is considered family. In comes special agent Ava McLane to investigate the missing person case.
Ava and Mason are drawn to each other as they both attempt to help the family find the missing girl. At the same time, Mason is being investigated for the death of his CI as his prints have been found on the murder weapon. He is not a dirty cop, he is dedicated and does things by the book, obviously someone is out to get him, but who?
This book has several twists and turns to keep the pace going. I've said before that I do not think Elliot gets the credit she deserves for writing engaging mysteries. Her books are interesting, there are always twists and turns and her writing is solid.
I found this book to be a solid mystery and appreciated that the romance was light as the focus needed to be on finding the missing girl and the real murderer of the CI in the opening sequence of the book. This is the first book in the Callahan & McLane series. I will definitely be reading the other books in this series.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
This book opens at a crime scene. Mason Callahan's CI (confidential informant) has been murdered. To make matters worse, his fingerprints are all over her apartment. Has he been in her apartment? Yes, but not in the places where his fingerprints have been found. To make his day even worse, his ex-wife's 11 year old step daughter has gone missing. She left the home in the morning headed to school but never arrived. Who would take her and why? His son is also back in town due to being on a college break and their relationship is strained. Having his step-sister kidnapped does not help matters. Mason attempts to be supportive of his son even if their interactions are uncomfortable.
Mason is attempting to help his ex-wife, her husband and their children cope with the kidnapping. He is acting as the family liaison since he cannot investigate the missing girl as she is considered family. In comes special agent Ava McLane to investigate the missing person case.
Ava and Mason are drawn to each other as they both attempt to help the family find the missing girl. At the same time, Mason is being investigated for the death of his CI as his prints have been found on the murder weapon. He is not a dirty cop, he is dedicated and does things by the book, obviously someone is out to get him, but who?
This book has several twists and turns to keep the pace going. I've said before that I do not think Elliot gets the credit she deserves for writing engaging mysteries. Her books are interesting, there are always twists and turns and her writing is solid.
I found this book to be a solid mystery and appreciated that the romance was light as the focus needed to be on finding the missing girl and the real murderer of the CI in the opening sequence of the book. This is the first book in the Callahan & McLane series. I will definitely be reading the other books in this series.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
May 25, 2022
Fifth Reread: A never fail cure to a bad day - just skip the Jane parts.
Fourth reread: This is exactly what I needed on a bad day.
Third Reread: This was just as good, if not better, on my third read. Mason Callahan started as a small secondary character in Hidden, the first of the Bone Secrets series. Callahan is a cowboy hat wearing detective that screams Raylan Givens from Justified. He has on-the-spot appeal and I looked forward to his appearance book to book. This was a perfect build up to his own series and Elliot does not disappoint. I will be reading Bridged the second it comes out.
*This series has become another hug pillow against the stresses of life!
Audible Note: There are two narrators and the woman does a good job. The male narrator makes a nasal falsetto hash of Ava’s voice which is a damn shame as Ava’s voice is written as deep, smooth, and bluesy - her best feature.
September 4, 2021
2.5 stars. There were things I liked about this book but also things that annoyed me. To be fair I listened to the audiobook and one of the people reading was incredibly dramatic ALL. THE. TIME!!!! Other than that it had a good amount of suspense and I loved how the author brought everything together in the end. If I do read the second book in this series, I will actually READ the book instead of listening to it.
October 2, 2024
Vanished by Kendra Elliott is a thrilling, fast-paced novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The book masterfully combines suspense, romance, and complex character development, making it a must-read for fans of crime fiction and mystery.
Mason Callahan is a seasoned state police detective who becomes personally involved in the case when his ex-wife's stepdaughter goes missing. His dedication to solving the mystery is unwavering, highlighting both his professional prowess and personal vulnerability. Mason's character is complex, marked by his deep sense of duty and lingering emotional scars because of unresolved issues from years of service.
Ava McLane is an intelligent and determined FBI agent who partners with Mason on the case. Her sharp instincts and relentless drive make her a formidable investigator. She almost seems too good to be true. However, Ava's personal struggles with her twin bring her character back down to earth and make her more likeable. Her evolving relationship with Mason adds an intriguing romantic subplot to the story.
Jake Callahan, Mason's teenage son, adds a unique dynamic to the story. Struggling with his father's demanding career and the weight of family expectations, Jake often feels overshadowed.
Throughout the novel, Jake is taking the kidnaping personally as if it is some all his fault. He is key in the resolution of the case. Jake's journey not only provides comedy to a serious situation but also serves as a reminder of the personal stakes involved in the high-pressure world of crime investigation.
"Vanished" is an exciting, fast-paced novel with a great storyline that keeps you hooked until the very end. The dynamic between the characters, particularly Mason, Ava, and Jake, adds richness to the plot. Each character is well-developed, with their own unique strengths and vulnerabilities, making them relatable and engaging.
The book's pacing is excellent, with twists and turns that keep you guessing. Kendra Elliott's writing style is both descriptive and concise, creating vivid scenes without unnecessary fluff. The intricate plot is well-crafted, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged and invested in the outcome.
Overall, "Vanished" is a compelling read that delivers a perfect blend of suspense, drama, and romance. Whether you are a longtime fan of Kendra Elliott or new to her work, this book is sure to leave an impression. Good to know that there are four more in this series. I will surely read all of them.
Mason Callahan is a seasoned state police detective who becomes personally involved in the case when his ex-wife's stepdaughter goes missing. His dedication to solving the mystery is unwavering, highlighting both his professional prowess and personal vulnerability. Mason's character is complex, marked by his deep sense of duty and lingering emotional scars because of unresolved issues from years of service.
Ava McLane is an intelligent and determined FBI agent who partners with Mason on the case. Her sharp instincts and relentless drive make her a formidable investigator. She almost seems too good to be true. However, Ava's personal struggles with her twin bring her character back down to earth and make her more likeable. Her evolving relationship with Mason adds an intriguing romantic subplot to the story.
Jake Callahan, Mason's teenage son, adds a unique dynamic to the story. Struggling with his father's demanding career and the weight of family expectations, Jake often feels overshadowed.
Throughout the novel, Jake is taking the kidnaping personally as if it is some all his fault. He is key in the resolution of the case. Jake's journey not only provides comedy to a serious situation but also serves as a reminder of the personal stakes involved in the high-pressure world of crime investigation.
"Vanished" is an exciting, fast-paced novel with a great storyline that keeps you hooked until the very end. The dynamic between the characters, particularly Mason, Ava, and Jake, adds richness to the plot. Each character is well-developed, with their own unique strengths and vulnerabilities, making them relatable and engaging.
The book's pacing is excellent, with twists and turns that keep you guessing. Kendra Elliott's writing style is both descriptive and concise, creating vivid scenes without unnecessary fluff. The intricate plot is well-crafted, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged and invested in the outcome.
Overall, "Vanished" is a compelling read that delivers a perfect blend of suspense, drama, and romance. Whether you are a longtime fan of Kendra Elliott or new to her work, this book is sure to leave an impression. Good to know that there are four more in this series. I will surely read all of them.
October 4, 2015
*I gave this Audiobook an A for Nick Podehl's narration, B for Amy McFadden's narration and B for Book Content at AudioGals*
Narrated by Nick Podehl and Amy McFadden
We often take for granted that our children could be abducted. Imagine the horror of finding out that your child never arrived at school? What would you do? Vanished centers around a child kidnapping taking place just a few days before Christmas, the crucial steps the extended family takes to try to avert disaster, and its effect on the family. No one is immune to scrutiny. In that regard, this book somewhat reminded me of the Clue board game. There is also a secondary mystery and some elements of romance to keep you entertained and guessing as to the ultimate direction of this story. Please note though, that this novel is much more weighted towards the mystery/suspense, rather than the romance.
Local detective Mason Callahan is having a bad stretch. First, he is informed that one of his longtime, confidential informants, a prostitute, has been murdered. Then, he gets a call from his ex-wife seeking his help to track down her 11-year-old stepdaughter, Henley, who has gone missing.
Thanks to the quick thinking of the family, including Mason who agrees to take time off of work to serve as the family spokesperson, the FBI quickly assembles a special taskforce to investigate this case. Chief among the agents is special Agent Ava McLane, who is specifically assigned to be a liaison to the family. As Agent McLane and the other members of the taskforce begin working the case, secrets surrounding the family members, including Mason, his ex-wife, her new husband, and Mason and his ex-wife’s son, a college student, begin to be revealed.
Working tirelessly and hand-in-hand to bring Henley home safe, Mason and Ava develop a mutual admiration for one another. Soon one thing leads to another. But can their connection developed at a time of danger, prevail once the case is closed?
As is frequently the case in dual narrations with a male and female narrator, Nick Podehl narrates the chapters that are told from a male character’s perspective and Amy McFadden the ones from the females’. This style generally works in this book although I have to say, that I preferred Nick Podehl’s rendition, as I absolutely fell in love with his style. Amy McFadden’s performance is also a great one, particularly for the female roles, but Mr. Podehl’s voice became the one that I associated with Mason and the other men.
For the entire review, including the detailed narration review, see AudioGals.
Narrated by Nick Podehl and Amy McFadden
We often take for granted that our children could be abducted. Imagine the horror of finding out that your child never arrived at school? What would you do? Vanished centers around a child kidnapping taking place just a few days before Christmas, the crucial steps the extended family takes to try to avert disaster, and its effect on the family. No one is immune to scrutiny. In that regard, this book somewhat reminded me of the Clue board game. There is also a secondary mystery and some elements of romance to keep you entertained and guessing as to the ultimate direction of this story. Please note though, that this novel is much more weighted towards the mystery/suspense, rather than the romance.
Local detective Mason Callahan is having a bad stretch. First, he is informed that one of his longtime, confidential informants, a prostitute, has been murdered. Then, he gets a call from his ex-wife seeking his help to track down her 11-year-old stepdaughter, Henley, who has gone missing.
Thanks to the quick thinking of the family, including Mason who agrees to take time off of work to serve as the family spokesperson, the FBI quickly assembles a special taskforce to investigate this case. Chief among the agents is special Agent Ava McLane, who is specifically assigned to be a liaison to the family. As Agent McLane and the other members of the taskforce begin working the case, secrets surrounding the family members, including Mason, his ex-wife, her new husband, and Mason and his ex-wife’s son, a college student, begin to be revealed.
Working tirelessly and hand-in-hand to bring Henley home safe, Mason and Ava develop a mutual admiration for one another. Soon one thing leads to another. But can their connection developed at a time of danger, prevail once the case is closed?
As is frequently the case in dual narrations with a male and female narrator, Nick Podehl narrates the chapters that are told from a male character’s perspective and Amy McFadden the ones from the females’. This style generally works in this book although I have to say, that I preferred Nick Podehl’s rendition, as I absolutely fell in love with his style. Amy McFadden’s performance is also a great one, particularly for the female roles, but Mr. Podehl’s voice became the one that I associated with Mason and the other men.
For the entire review, including the detailed narration review, see AudioGals.
June 9, 2014
VANISHED was another engaging, heart-pounding suspense novel from Kendra Elliot. The main crime is one that sends chills up the spine of any parent - a child abduction. Detective Mason Callahan learns that one of his confidential informants has been murdered and then he gets the call that his ex-wife's eleven-year-old stepdaughter has been kidnapped. Mason is close to his ex-wife and her new husband. After all, they have had the major responsibility of raising Mason's son Jake. Mason is married to his job. It caused the break-up of his marriage and is about the only thing that gives his life meaning.
The FBI pulls out all the stops to try to find young Henley Fairchild. Agent Ava McLane is embedded into the family to help them while the investigation is going on. Since Mason is also staying with the family to be their public spokesmen and liaison with the police, the two of them get to know each other. First of all, the respect each other's competence and dedication. But soon the respect turns to romance. Both of them are wary because of previous bad relationships.
The tensions just keep ratcheting up in this thriller as clues are found and investigated and as evidence builds that Mason is the one who killed his confidential informant. Mason knows he is being framed but his main concern is for finding Henley. It takes a long time, and Mason spends a lot of time in denial, before they realize that the two crimes are connected.
I like that the characters in Elliot's romantic suspense titles are multi-dimensional people. Ava McLane is also trying to deal with her mentally ill, drug-addicted twin sister while trying to concentrate on finding Henley. She fears that she might become like her sister and she feels so helpless because she can't help the sister who doesn't think that anything is wrong with her.
This story was hard to put down and kept me reading late into the night. I highly recommend it.
The FBI pulls out all the stops to try to find young Henley Fairchild. Agent Ava McLane is embedded into the family to help them while the investigation is going on. Since Mason is also staying with the family to be their public spokesmen and liaison with the police, the two of them get to know each other. First of all, the respect each other's competence and dedication. But soon the respect turns to romance. Both of them are wary because of previous bad relationships.
The tensions just keep ratcheting up in this thriller as clues are found and investigated and as evidence builds that Mason is the one who killed his confidential informant. Mason knows he is being framed but his main concern is for finding Henley. It takes a long time, and Mason spends a lot of time in denial, before they realize that the two crimes are connected.
I like that the characters in Elliot's romantic suspense titles are multi-dimensional people. Ava McLane is also trying to deal with her mentally ill, drug-addicted twin sister while trying to concentrate on finding Henley. She fears that she might become like her sister and she feels so helpless because she can't help the sister who doesn't think that anything is wrong with her.
This story was hard to put down and kept me reading late into the night. I highly recommend it.
September 28, 2020
Detective Mason Callahan's day starts when he is called to the scene of Josie Mueller's murder because she was his confidential informant. Mason's day goes from bad to worse when he receives a call from his ex-wife asking for his help. Her stepdaughter, Henley, has disappeared. Last seen walking to the bus, Henley never made it to the bus stop. Mason decides to help the family by acting as a liaison with the police. FBI Agent Ava McLane is assigned to stay with the family and follow-up on any leads. She and Mason join forces to uncover why Henley was targeted and who was behind it.
This is the first book in the Callahan & McLane series. I remembered Callahan was a character in the Bone Secrets series. I was glad to see he got his own book. Mason Callahan is married to his job. He is divorced and has no social life. His son has gone off to college. When he learns of Henley's disappearance, he believes he can help the family get through this trying time. Ava is very much like Mason. Her only family is her troubled twin sister who Ava is avoiding at all costs.
While Mason and Ava help the family and keep up with the investigation, they get to know each other. I liked the romance in this book. It was a good balance with the suspense story which pulled me right in. I look forward to the next book in the series. My rating: 4 Stars.
This is the first book in the Callahan & McLane series. I remembered Callahan was a character in the Bone Secrets series. I was glad to see he got his own book. Mason Callahan is married to his job. He is divorced and has no social life. His son has gone off to college. When he learns of Henley's disappearance, he believes he can help the family get through this trying time. Ava is very much like Mason. Her only family is her troubled twin sister who Ava is avoiding at all costs.
While Mason and Ava help the family and keep up with the investigation, they get to know each other. I liked the romance in this book. It was a good balance with the suspense story which pulled me right in. I look forward to the next book in the series. My rating: 4 Stars.
June 10, 2019
3 / 5 stars
I went into this book on a whim and didn't really have many expectations. I'm more of a casual visitor to this genre, and although I enjoyed this book, I don't see myself picking up the second one.
This follows Mason Callahan, a police officer who ends up involved in the search and rescue effort to find his ex-wife's stepdaughter. This book heavily focused on the family dynamic, with a massive blended family involved (Mason and his ex-wife Robin, Robin's husband and his ex-wife, the mother of the missing child. Confusing right?!).
Despite there being many moving players in this book, the author did an amazing job keeping all the characters easy to remember and clear, and unlike most authors, Elliot chose to make this a really enjoyable blended family. They all got on well and supported each other, keeping the interest of the kids the focus, which was refreshing and admirable.
When the FBI gets involved, it's quickly discovered that the young girl was kidnapped. Ava McLane, an FBI officer, is embedded into the family and gets to know Mason quickly. This follows the journey of trying to find the little girl, and as they search, they uncover that something more is at play—a revenge plot.
The main characters Mason and Ava were fun to read about, and the dual perspectives allowed you to really get to know them and what motivated them. It was interesting and the very slow burn romance was cute, but by no means AT ALL the focus. What I enjoyed most between these characters was the mutual respect they had for each and their professions, with Mason stating multiple times that Ava could look after herself (maybe even better than he could look after himself). Ava was obviously more career advanced and senior than him, and the character interactions between that were subtle but well done. I always love a strong and capable female lead, and that was definitely what Ava was—realistic, real and super enjoyable to read about!
I went into this book on a whim and didn't really have many expectations. I'm more of a casual visitor to this genre, and although I enjoyed this book, I don't see myself picking up the second one.
This follows Mason Callahan, a police officer who ends up involved in the search and rescue effort to find his ex-wife's stepdaughter. This book heavily focused on the family dynamic, with a massive blended family involved (Mason and his ex-wife Robin, Robin's husband and his ex-wife, the mother of the missing child. Confusing right?!).
Despite there being many moving players in this book, the author did an amazing job keeping all the characters easy to remember and clear, and unlike most authors, Elliot chose to make this a really enjoyable blended family. They all got on well and supported each other, keeping the interest of the kids the focus, which was refreshing and admirable.
When the FBI gets involved, it's quickly discovered that the young girl was kidnapped. Ava McLane, an FBI officer, is embedded into the family and gets to know Mason quickly. This follows the journey of trying to find the little girl, and as they search, they uncover that something more is at play—a revenge plot.
The main characters Mason and Ava were fun to read about, and the dual perspectives allowed you to really get to know them and what motivated them. It was interesting and the very slow burn romance was cute, but by no means AT ALL the focus. What I enjoyed most between these characters was the mutual respect they had for each and their professions, with Mason stating multiple times that Ava could look after herself (maybe even better than he could look after himself). Ava was obviously more career advanced and senior than him, and the character interactions between that were subtle but well done. I always love a strong and capable female lead, and that was definitely what Ava was—realistic, real and super enjoyable to read about!
October 20, 2017
I did a bad. I read this first book in a series, last. Oops. In my defense, the other books in the series read like standalones and the only thing that was a problem was that the relationship between Ava and Mason was already an established fact. Well, now I know why and this book joins a rare selection of books that I just couldn't turn off when I turned off the lights. Yep, I reached that sweet point in the book where you just have to finish it because you just have to know how it ends. Well, I found out at 4:00 am this morning, but I'm not going to tell you. I'll let you discover that for yourself. I will say this much - this book is more suspense than romance, as is the whole series, but the romance is very hot.
When 11-year old Henley is kidnapped, it throws her blended family and the whole community into turmoil. Oregon State Police detective, Mason Callahan, is part of her blended family. He was married to her stepmom, Robin, and is father to her older stepbrother, Jake. Mason is all about the job and that is why his marriage to Robin failed. His relationship with Jake is that of part-time father and since Jake is now in college, there is a lot that Mason finds he has missed out on. He volunteers to act as the family spokesperson which gives him something the concentrate on other than the investigation into the murder of one of his Confidential Informants.
Ava McLane is an FBI agent assigned to liaison with the family. She and Mason are dedicated to uncovering the reason Henley was taken and to bringing her home. In working together they find that there is much more to what has happened than just a simple kidnapping. With few clues to follow, they gradually uncover a vengeance plot that has taken meticulous planning and implementation. They also uncover a respect for each other and these two dedicated people find a rare passion for something other that their jobs.
When 11-year old Henley is kidnapped, it throws her blended family and the whole community into turmoil. Oregon State Police detective, Mason Callahan, is part of her blended family. He was married to her stepmom, Robin, and is father to her older stepbrother, Jake. Mason is all about the job and that is why his marriage to Robin failed. His relationship with Jake is that of part-time father and since Jake is now in college, there is a lot that Mason finds he has missed out on. He volunteers to act as the family spokesperson which gives him something the concentrate on other than the investigation into the murder of one of his Confidential Informants.
Ava McLane is an FBI agent assigned to liaison with the family. She and Mason are dedicated to uncovering the reason Henley was taken and to bringing her home. In working together they find that there is much more to what has happened than just a simple kidnapping. With few clues to follow, they gradually uncover a vengeance plot that has taken meticulous planning and implementation. They also uncover a respect for each other and these two dedicated people find a rare passion for something other that their jobs.
July 22, 2016
The narrators of this audiobook ruined it for me. It was a run of the mill thriller with a child kidnapping, a suspended cop, a token romance thrown in.
December 31, 2015
No book report here just some general thoughts
* although true to life for this type of situation - I got tired quickly of all of the family dynamics and conflict that took up at least a 1/3 of the book
* I was more interested in the death of the CI, then the missing child
* Ava's sister Jane seemed to just complicate the story line - there was no resolution to this relationship
* finally at approx. 2/3 into the book the connection between the suitcase, missing child, missing dog, CI death, and man in peacoat is being made - finally things started to get interesting
* I like Mason as a character - strong, honest, riddled with guilt, not afraid to show his emotions
* For me Ava is still a work in progress - not 100% behind her character
* not feeling the connection, chemistry between Mason and Ava - will call this a work in progress since they reprise roles in book 2 in the series
* although true to life for this type of situation - I got tired quickly of all of the family dynamics and conflict that took up at least a 1/3 of the book
* I was more interested in the death of the CI, then the missing child
* Ava's sister Jane seemed to just complicate the story line - there was no resolution to this relationship
* finally at approx. 2/3 into the book the connection between the suitcase, missing child, missing dog, CI death, and man in peacoat is being made - finally things started to get interesting
* I like Mason as a character - strong, honest, riddled with guilt, not afraid to show his emotions
* For me Ava is still a work in progress - not 100% behind her character
* not feeling the connection, chemistry between Mason and Ava - will call this a work in progress since they reprise roles in book 2 in the series
November 15, 2019
Again a good pair and a good story. She really knows how to write a good romantic suspense novel.
September 25, 2020
This is one of the best Romantic Suspense books I've read, with the bulk of the story on crime investigation and just a bit of romantic attraction, with promise for the future. It is very well written, a big plus in my view.
An eleven-year old girl is kidnapped on her way to school; a prostitute is murdered with a baseball bat; a college kid's luggage is stolen from the airport baggage claim. (How) Are these three things connected? Who is the real target of the bad guy(s)?
I really connected with the crime investigators, which included State and Local Police forces and the FBI and thought that their serious commitment to finding the young girl was portrayed in an excellent manner.
The way the blended family of the missing girl coped also seemed to be handled very well by this author.
I don't recall reading anything by this author before, but I will definitely want to follow up on the McLane and Callahan series, of which this is the first book.
There was only one part of the story, near the end, that didn't ring true to me, but I've never been in any of these characters' situations, so I may have been detached enough as a reader to have figured out some things that were not obvious to the law enforcement characters present.
I don't write spoilers, but I do recommend this book highly. There were just a few instances of language, no gratuitous violence and only the one (almost)behind-closed-doors intimate encounter.
An eleven-year old girl is kidnapped on her way to school; a prostitute is murdered with a baseball bat; a college kid's luggage is stolen from the airport baggage claim. (How) Are these three things connected? Who is the real target of the bad guy(s)?
I really connected with the crime investigators, which included State and Local Police forces and the FBI and thought that their serious commitment to finding the young girl was portrayed in an excellent manner.
The way the blended family of the missing girl coped also seemed to be handled very well by this author.
I don't recall reading anything by this author before, but I will definitely want to follow up on the McLane and Callahan series, of which this is the first book.
There was only one part of the story, near the end, that didn't ring true to me, but I've never been in any of these characters' situations, so I may have been detached enough as a reader to have figured out some things that were not obvious to the law enforcement characters present.
I don't write spoilers, but I do recommend this book highly. There were just a few instances of language, no gratuitous violence and only the one (almost)behind-closed-doors intimate encounter.
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February 23, 2020
4 stars!
*
Vanished got me hooked right from the first chapter! I already knew Mason from my very brief attempt at trying to read the Bone Secrets series and it was wonderful reading about him as a fully realized POV character in this novel. Ava was also a great POV character and I really liked their relationship and how it slowly developed--although some romance/steamy scenes did feel out of place when considering what was going on with the plot.
I loved how personal the main mystery was. The plot was really well written and developed in a way that means you slowly started to understand what was going on and putting the pieces together. The personal connection with Mason was really intriguing, but once you became aware of a certain story that happened to him things were super easy to figure out. Then it was just a matter of seeing how it would all play out.
The side characters were also wonderful. You really got to know Mason and his family. Every character was fleshed out and complex and there were also a few familiar faces from Elliot's other novels. I'm pretty curious to see what's in store for both Ava and Mason and how the series will go for them. :D
*
Series: #1 in the Callahan & McLane series.
POV: Told from Mason and Ava's POVs.
Content Warnings:
Steam: A bit!
Cliffhanger: No.
HEA:
Up Next: Bridged.
*
Vanished got me hooked right from the first chapter! I already knew Mason from my very brief attempt at trying to read the Bone Secrets series and it was wonderful reading about him as a fully realized POV character in this novel. Ava was also a great POV character and I really liked their relationship and how it slowly developed--although some romance/steamy scenes did feel out of place when considering what was going on with the plot.
I loved how personal the main mystery was. The plot was really well written and developed in a way that means you slowly started to understand what was going on and putting the pieces together. The personal connection with Mason was really intriguing, but once you became aware of a certain story that happened to him things were super easy to figure out. Then it was just a matter of seeing how it would all play out.
The side characters were also wonderful. You really got to know Mason and his family. Every character was fleshed out and complex and there were also a few familiar faces from Elliot's other novels. I'm pretty curious to see what's in store for both Ava and Mason and how the series will go for them. :D
*
Series: #1 in the Callahan & McLane series.
POV: Told from Mason and Ava's POVs.
Content Warnings:
Steam: A bit!
Cliffhanger: No.
HEA:
Up Next: Bridged.
July 6, 2024
4.5 Stars!
Great start to a series. The mystery/crime always seems so much more intense when a child is involved and this was no exception.
Great start to a series. The mystery/crime always seems so much more intense when a child is involved and this was no exception.
September 7, 2018
Right away, this audiobook has one of my least favorite things: dual narrators. Both narrators do a decent job with their respective POVs, but having to hear two different sets of voices for all the characters is just annoying. I also thought the guy more natural than the female narrator, though she did grow on me over time. Just please, if you're going to pay for the expense of two narrators, put them in the studio together and assign them parts instead of POVs. It can only improve the product.
The author also does the thing I like least in mysteries: gives us the POV of the perp. Let me figure it out! Then again, this perp was so ridiculously out of left field, that giving us all the villain cliches via bad pseudo psychology wasn't going to hurt it too much. :D
What I did like about this was the relationships between all the characters. Mason's got a family tree that makes the Brady Bunch look like child's play, and they all get along. No snipping or vindictive exes, no patronizing new husbands to threaten the old husband. They're all adults, they all put the children first and they all put their egos aside. So that was refreshing. Jake has to suffer stupidity at the exact wrong moment for the sake of Plot and Climax, but other than that, they're all pretty well written.
Ava's the one with the mixed up family dynamics, since she has a narcissistic twin sister who screws up her life every time they come in contact. That dynamic was actually pretty well done too.
And suddenly this is a romance. LOL. I didn't expect that and honestly don't think the story needed that, but whatever. Mason and Ava fall "in love" over four days. Ok, sure. But it was neat to see them work together and respect each other, and for the tough, intelligent woman not to turn into a bimbo as soon as she found true love, which tends to happen too often in M/F.
Overall, this is a pretty decent start to the series. I can live with the dual narration, but I hope we don't get any more villain POVs.
The author also does the thing I like least in mysteries: gives us the POV of the perp. Let me figure it out! Then again, this perp was so ridiculously out of left field, that giving us all the villain cliches via bad pseudo psychology wasn't going to hurt it too much. :D
What I did like about this was the relationships between all the characters. Mason's got a family tree that makes the Brady Bunch look like child's play, and they all get along. No snipping or vindictive exes, no patronizing new husbands to threaten the old husband. They're all adults, they all put the children first and they all put their egos aside. So that was refreshing. Jake has to suffer stupidity at the exact wrong moment for the sake of Plot and Climax, but other than that, they're all pretty well written.
Ava's the one with the mixed up family dynamics, since she has a narcissistic twin sister who screws up her life every time they come in contact. That dynamic was actually pretty well done too.
And suddenly this is a romance. LOL. I didn't expect that and honestly don't think the story needed that, but whatever. Mason and Ava fall "in love" over four days. Ok, sure. But it was neat to see them work together and respect each other, and for the tough, intelligent woman not to turn into a bimbo as soon as she found true love, which tends to happen too often in M/F.
Overall, this is a pretty decent start to the series. I can live with the dual narration, but I hope we don't get any more villain POVs.
October 21, 2017
An eleven-year-old is abducted and the FBI doesn’t waste time scouring the area. Special Agent Ava McLane and local detective Mason Callahan, who is somewhat related to the victim via his son, are hot on the trail to capture the kidnapper and killer of his longtime confidential informant.
Each having their own personal demons, set those aside to concentrate on the case as the stakes go higher every minute that the girl is missing. Throughout the twists and turns in the case, Ava and Mason struggle to hold the family together while finding themselves very attracted to one another. Who knows what the next chapter may hold for the two of them?
I have acquired another series of books by Kendra Elliot but have never gotten around to reading them yet. Totally regret not having done so sooner. I audio'd this book and it kept me captivated to the end. Although it had its confusing moments and areas in the novel that were a little predictable, it made for a very good listen/read. A little out of my comfort zone in genre, but truly loved the story.
Each having their own personal demons, set those aside to concentrate on the case as the stakes go higher every minute that the girl is missing. Throughout the twists and turns in the case, Ava and Mason struggle to hold the family together while finding themselves very attracted to one another. Who knows what the next chapter may hold for the two of them?
I have acquired another series of books by Kendra Elliot but have never gotten around to reading them yet. Totally regret not having done so sooner. I audio'd this book and it kept me captivated to the end. Although it had its confusing moments and areas in the novel that were a little predictable, it made for a very good listen/read. A little out of my comfort zone in genre, but truly loved the story.
July 30, 2016
Cliched, predictable, one-dimensional characters, lots of telling instead of showing, characters talk like no one really talks, etc. etc. Did not appeal to me. It was a romance novel with a veneer of crime thriller. Romance fans might like it.
December 16, 2021
One of Kendra Elliot's best efforts full of suspense with great character development. This seems like the beginning of a terrific series.
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