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The Shadow Agency #2
Shadow Chaser
Waking at night to the scent of smoke, Emily Rankin’s first and only thought is to get her daughter, Bree, out of the house. Instead, Emily discovers Bree has been kidnapped. She turns to the Shadow Agency for help—only to find herself face-to-face with the man who had disappeared from her life as fast as he’d entered.
As a covert operative, Austin Greenwich is used to flying solo. But he’s never forgotten Emily and the explosive chemistry they shared. Now, she’s back in his life, and she needs his help. With relentless killers making attempts on Emily’s life, it’s clear someone wants Emily out of the picture—for good.
As Austin and his colleagues at the Shadow Agency chase after the culprits, Austin discovers he has more to lose than he ever assumed. Will they find the little girl in time? Or will the mastermind behind this terror leave the team chasing shadows?
As a covert operative, Austin Greenwich is used to flying solo. But he’s never forgotten Emily and the explosive chemistry they shared. Now, she’s back in his life, and she needs his help. With relentless killers making attempts on Emily’s life, it’s clear someone wants Emily out of the picture—for good.
As Austin and his colleagues at the Shadow Agency chase after the culprits, Austin discovers he has more to lose than he ever assumed. Will they find the little girl in time? Or will the mastermind behind this terror leave the team chasing shadows?
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 6, 2024
547 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Christy Barritt
341 books1,683 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 8, 2024
This was an action-packed, fast-paced romantic suspense story involving the Shadow Agency being hired to find a kidnapped young girl. What Austin doesn't know is that the young girl is the daughter of Emily, someone he once knew 7 years ago.
This second chance story had twists and turns, danger following the two everywhere they went, and secrets. Who it was had me guessing. Looking forward to book 3.
This second chance story had twists and turns, danger following the two everywhere they went, and secrets. Who it was had me guessing. Looking forward to book 3.
December 16, 2024
Intriguing…
I know this is only the second book in, but there’s definitely more going on in the background than just the immediate story, which is awesome on its own. It definitely makes you more excited to read the next book!
I know this is only the second book in, but there’s definitely more going on in the background than just the immediate story, which is awesome on its own. It definitely makes you more excited to read the next book!
August 25, 2024
In this series of books, we meet the team of the Shadow Agency, and there are many secrets about their past we’ve yet to learn. But the way Christy Barritt weaves their stories into the books is amazing, and it will keep you reading to find out just who these guys are.
I love reading Christy Barritt’s books. They are always packed full of suspense, action, twists, and turns. This one is no different. It was so suspenseful that I had no idea which person was the true bad guy, and when I tried to guess, I was wrong—totally Wrong!
From the very first page to the last, the story unfolds in such a way that you'll find it hard to put the book down. The narrative is so immersive that you might even forget to breathe at times!
Austin doesn't know that the stakes are higher in this operation, at least not at first. He only knows that a woman needs to find her daughter. Will they be able to find Bree before anything deadly happens to either one of them?
If you love “who-done-it” stories with mystery, suspense, action, a bit of relationship tension, and romance mixed in, you will love this book!
This story will keep you on the edge of your seat until you finish it. Be prepared to not put it down, even to eat or sleep!
Without a doubt, I highly recommend picking up this book. It's a thrilling read that won’t disappoint.
I was given this book by the author, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love reading Christy Barritt’s books. They are always packed full of suspense, action, twists, and turns. This one is no different. It was so suspenseful that I had no idea which person was the true bad guy, and when I tried to guess, I was wrong—totally Wrong!
From the very first page to the last, the story unfolds in such a way that you'll find it hard to put the book down. The narrative is so immersive that you might even forget to breathe at times!
Austin doesn't know that the stakes are higher in this operation, at least not at first. He only knows that a woman needs to find her daughter. Will they be able to find Bree before anything deadly happens to either one of them?
If you love “who-done-it” stories with mystery, suspense, action, a bit of relationship tension, and romance mixed in, you will love this book!
This story will keep you on the edge of your seat until you finish it. Be prepared to not put it down, even to eat or sleep!
Without a doubt, I highly recommend picking up this book. It's a thrilling read that won’t disappoint.
I was given this book by the author, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 12, 2024
Another romantic, action-packed mystery from Christy Barritt catches my attention. What a prolific writer!
Emily flees a fire, only to find death continues to nip at her heels in a confusing barrage of threats and actual attempts. This is a fast read, a sort of special forces romance story with a dark undercurrent of suggested government experimentation that sets one’s teeth on edge. And caught in the middle of it is little preschooler Bree.
Emily “often told her clients that behind every bad behavior was a hurt from the past.” Of course, this idea, promoting understanding and forgiveness (and hopefully better choices), does not work on professional killers. She reflected how mistakes come in different sizes. “Some required learning harder lessons. In the end, it was important for people to allow their mistakes to make them into better humans.” One could hope.
I’d rate this a 3.5, as it feels like it was written quickly and could have been better developed, but I’ve rounded it to a 4, in appreciation of the numerous series Ms Barritt has gifted readers. The hooks to draw the reader to the next book in the series seemed a bit contrived.
Emily flees a fire, only to find death continues to nip at her heels in a confusing barrage of threats and actual attempts. This is a fast read, a sort of special forces romance story with a dark undercurrent of suggested government experimentation that sets one’s teeth on edge. And caught in the middle of it is little preschooler Bree.
Emily “often told her clients that behind every bad behavior was a hurt from the past.” Of course, this idea, promoting understanding and forgiveness (and hopefully better choices), does not work on professional killers. She reflected how mistakes come in different sizes. “Some required learning harder lessons. In the end, it was important for people to allow their mistakes to make them into better humans.” One could hope.
I’d rate this a 3.5, as it feels like it was written quickly and could have been better developed, but I’ve rounded it to a 4, in appreciation of the numerous series Ms Barritt has gifted readers. The hooks to draw the reader to the next book in the series seemed a bit contrived.
October 17, 2024
3.5 stars
"Coincidences like this didn't happen. There had to be some mistake."
Except it was Emily Rankin staring at him across the table . . . . his assignment had stated that he was meeting a single mother who had escaped a burning home only to discover that her young daughter had been kidnapped in the process. Having been warned away from contacting the police, a stranger had suggested hiring The Shadow Agency, which had brought Austin Greenwich full circle . . . . after seven years . . . back to Emily Rankin.
She would just have to trust Austin. Emily had no other choice at the moment. Of course he would need to pry into her background in order to track down her daughter . . . . how much courage did Emily have . . . dare she tell him the truth?
This second chance story barely has time for that heart-to-heart conversation; the clock is ticking and a little girl's life hangs in the balance, every logical explanation reaches a dead end, and Austin begins to wonder . . . . maybe this wasn't about Emily at all.
Never fear! The fast pace packs a solid punch with a soft landing!
"Coincidences like this didn't happen. There had to be some mistake."
Except it was Emily Rankin staring at him across the table . . . . his assignment had stated that he was meeting a single mother who had escaped a burning home only to discover that her young daughter had been kidnapped in the process. Having been warned away from contacting the police, a stranger had suggested hiring The Shadow Agency, which had brought Austin Greenwich full circle . . . . after seven years . . . back to Emily Rankin.
She would just have to trust Austin. Emily had no other choice at the moment. Of course he would need to pry into her background in order to track down her daughter . . . . how much courage did Emily have . . . dare she tell him the truth?
This second chance story barely has time for that heart-to-heart conversation; the clock is ticking and a little girl's life hangs in the balance, every logical explanation reaches a dead end, and Austin begins to wonder . . . . maybe this wasn't about Emily at all.
Never fear! The fast pace packs a solid punch with a soft landing!
May 1, 2024
The house is ablaze, and Emily Rankin barely escapes through her bedroom window. Now, her mission is to rescue her daughter, Bree, but she's nowhere to be found! Then, a mysterious text reassures Emily that her daughter is safe, at least for now.
Meanwhile, Austin Greenwich is grappling with life's complexities, never expecting to encounter a blast from the past in the form of a one-night stand—Emily. Seeing her again fills him with regret and reminds him that she was different from all the others.
The latest installment of The Shadow Agency Series ignites from the start and maintains its intensity until the very end.
Master storyteller Christy Barritt delivers yet another action-packed tale of suspense and romance. I'm eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for the Shadow Agency."
I appreciate the author for allowing me the chance to read this book. Providing this review was voluntary, and all opinions shared are solely mine.
Meanwhile, Austin Greenwich is grappling with life's complexities, never expecting to encounter a blast from the past in the form of a one-night stand—Emily. Seeing her again fills him with regret and reminds him that she was different from all the others.
The latest installment of The Shadow Agency Series ignites from the start and maintains its intensity until the very end.
Master storyteller Christy Barritt delivers yet another action-packed tale of suspense and romance. I'm eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for the Shadow Agency."
I appreciate the author for allowing me the chance to read this book. Providing this review was voluntary, and all opinions shared are solely mine.
June 21, 2024
Shadow Chaser is another Christian Romance/Suspense by Christy Barritt. Though a bit predictable, this book, like most Christian Suspense Romances, flows like a good Hallmark movie. Light and fun.
Emily Rankin wakes to the smell of smoke. When she realizes the house she is renting is on fire, Her only thought is to rescue her daughter Bree. But Bree’s bedroom is ablaze. Then Emily gets a text message. Bree isn’t dead; she’s been kidnapped. A stranger hands her a card that offers help, but when the help arrives in the person of Austin Greenwich, a man she despises, will she accept his assistance or send him packing and try to solve the mystery on her own? Until shots are fired and Emily is forced to accept the fact. She needs Austin’s help.
With a bit of a twist and a lot of action, this book became a very quick read.
If you enjoy predictable but fun stories, like I do, I recommend Shadow Chaser. It would make an entertaining beach read this summer.
Emily Rankin wakes to the smell of smoke. When she realizes the house she is renting is on fire, Her only thought is to rescue her daughter Bree. But Bree’s bedroom is ablaze. Then Emily gets a text message. Bree isn’t dead; she’s been kidnapped. A stranger hands her a card that offers help, but when the help arrives in the person of Austin Greenwich, a man she despises, will she accept his assistance or send him packing and try to solve the mystery on her own? Until shots are fired and Emily is forced to accept the fact. She needs Austin’s help.
With a bit of a twist and a lot of action, this book became a very quick read.
If you enjoy predictable but fun stories, like I do, I recommend Shadow Chaser. It would make an entertaining beach read this summer.
April 14, 2024
Austin and Emily, both at a bad point in life, met and instantly felt immediate attraction and had a one night stand. After Emily realized she was pregnant, she made a valiant effort to share the news. Unsuccessful, she moved on with her life and did the best she could. Years later, after a dismal and disappointing marriage her house is set on fire and her daughter is kidnapped. Because of her fear of losses, she starts on the path to find her daughter. Through tragedy, she meets with the man she can't forget. Together, they turn up the heat in order to get answers and save their little girl. Barritt has written every parent's nightmare, yet it was done with grace and elegance. I loved the story, the suspense, and the truthful real emotion they shared. I give this book a five out of five. I think this book will thrill the mystery seeker within!!!
April 12, 2024
This book was book 2 of 2. Emily's house burns down, and daughter Bree is kidnapped. Help comes from Bree's father, Austin, who has not known about his child previously. This book was a relatively quick read, but the ending leaves many questions unanswered. Since this was book 2 of 2, the ending was disappointing. Is Larchmont a good guy? What happened to the mad scientist, Brigitta? Why did Larchmont shoot her to keep her from talking? What kind of experimentation had been done on the Shadow Agency men?
I have read most of Barritt's books and this does not seem up to her typical standards.
I have read most of Barritt's books and this does not seem up to her typical standards.
May 1, 2024
Getting to know Christy
I decided to count how many of Christy's books I've read...74. I just completed Shadow Chaser and it finally dawned on me. Emily was not only a fiercely protective mother but also a brilliant young woman. With every book I am getting to know Christy! To say that Christy is brilliant would be a misnomer. She' too quirkey for that moniker...She's extravagantly cunning. I smile as I think of Holly...the main character in her Random Acts series. Christy is special not because of her ability to write interesting books but simply because of who she is...someone to know...someone to share a latte with.
I decided to count how many of Christy's books I've read...74. I just completed Shadow Chaser and it finally dawned on me. Emily was not only a fiercely protective mother but also a brilliant young woman. With every book I am getting to know Christy! To say that Christy is brilliant would be a misnomer. She' too quirkey for that moniker...She's extravagantly cunning. I smile as I think of Holly...the main character in her Random Acts series. Christy is special not because of her ability to write interesting books but simply because of who she is...someone to know...someone to share a latte with.
September 2, 2025
A former military man finds love with a women he once knew.
Loved being back with this author again. Austin and Emily story was exciting from start to finish. Emily didn't want Austin help at first. But things changed very quickly. They went on the run looking for their daughter. Though Austin didn't know that at first. First they went to all the people Emily thought were after her. But it were wasn't any of them. It was some evil person who was after Austin. When they found Bree Austin fell right in love with her. After they told Bree Austin was her father they did everything togethor. Looking forward to the other stories in this series.
Loved being back with this author again. Austin and Emily story was exciting from start to finish. Emily didn't want Austin help at first. But things changed very quickly. They went on the run looking for their daughter. Though Austin didn't know that at first. First they went to all the people Emily thought were after her. But it were wasn't any of them. It was some evil person who was after Austin. When they found Bree Austin fell right in love with her. After they told Bree Austin was her father they did everything togethor. Looking forward to the other stories in this series.
April 13, 2024
I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Emily Rankin woke up to her house on fire and her daughter missing so she contacted Shadow Agency and Austin Greenwich was assigned to her. She knew him since he was the father of her daughter, but he didn’t know it. They worked together following leads and trying to find Bree, but the men after them keep finding them and trying to kill Emily. Great book with lots of action and suspense. I would recommend reading it. Christy Barritt is a great story teller and this book is no exception.
April 15, 2024
Mystery abounds
I accidentally read Shadow Chaser [book 2 in the series) before reading book one. It could be a stand alone but I feel the need to read book one now before heading to book three. I have suspicions. Emily and Austin seem to be reconciling past difficulties as Austin copes with the idea he is a father to a six year old. I thought it was sad that the child, who had been kidnapped, when found her first words were "I'm bored." I've never been bored, so I don't know what that's like. I'm going to be surprised if there's not a sinister side to the man in charge.
I accidentally read Shadow Chaser [book 2 in the series) before reading book one. It could be a stand alone but I feel the need to read book one now before heading to book three. I have suspicions. Emily and Austin seem to be reconciling past difficulties as Austin copes with the idea he is a father to a six year old. I thought it was sad that the child, who had been kidnapped, when found her first words were "I'm bored." I've never been bored, so I don't know what that's like. I'm going to be surprised if there's not a sinister side to the man in charge.
May 22, 2024
Shadow Chaser
This is another wonderful romantic suspense book by Christy Barritt. Emily Rankin awakes to the smell of smoke and her house on fire. Trying valiantly to get her daughter out of the burning structure, she is horrified to discover her daughter has been kidnapped. Turning to the Shadow Agency for help to find her daughter she is surprised to see Austin, the one man that disappeared from her life seven years earlier. The action, danger, and suspense continues from the first page to the last. Highly recommend you read this thrilling story.
This is another wonderful romantic suspense book by Christy Barritt. Emily Rankin awakes to the smell of smoke and her house on fire. Trying valiantly to get her daughter out of the burning structure, she is horrified to discover her daughter has been kidnapped. Turning to the Shadow Agency for help to find her daughter she is surprised to see Austin, the one man that disappeared from her life seven years earlier. The action, danger, and suspense continues from the first page to the last. Highly recommend you read this thrilling story.
May 31, 2024
I love the excitement about how Austin and Emily worked towards finding Bree, Emily’s daughter, throughout this book. From the moment Emily finds out that her daughter is missing, this amazing adventure begins for her and Austin to find her. I love the twists in the plot throughout the book. As always, this author has the reader guessing who has done the kidnapping throughout the book and the end is a total surprise. I love books like this, that keep the reader on edge throughout and have a desire to never put the book down until the end!
April 10, 2024
Danger interrupts Emily Rankin’s life at every turn. Not only is her own life threatened, her daughter has been kidnapped and she has no idea who has taken her. This makes for an exciting and fast-paced tale that hardly lets you catch your breath. You don’t have to have read the previous book in this new series since each stands alone, but if you haven’t read it yet, you’ll want to grab it too. They’re both exciting thrillers. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
April 15, 2024
I didn't see that one coming-Emily
With her daughter missing and having to depend on a man she barely knew- Emily had to figure out who to trust and how far she could trust. Austin never thought he'd see Emily again and now the stakes are high Austin must find Bree before it was to late. Together they had to figure the puzzle out a hoping all the pieces are there.
Bravo Christy Barritt, you wrote another series that is riviting and hard to put down.
With her daughter missing and having to depend on a man she barely knew- Emily had to figure out who to trust and how far she could trust. Austin never thought he'd see Emily again and now the stakes are high Austin must find Bree before it was to late. Together they had to figure the puzzle out a hoping all the pieces are there.
Bravo Christy Barritt, you wrote another series that is riviting and hard to put down.
June 1, 2024
A fire, a missing child, an unknown dangerous enemy (or enemies?), and two changed people with many secrets in their pasts all collide to make for lots of danger and intrigue all the way through this second book in the Shadow Agency Series. Can Austin and Emily put aside past mistakes to work together and find her missing daughter? Is their unknown enemy from her past or his? Or both? You have to read to find out!
I received a free coy of this book. The opinions are my own.
I received a free coy of this book. The opinions are my own.
September 16, 2024
Another Great Inspirational Suspense!
I liked the characters and the Faith-based storyline. The suspense flowed throughout the book, keeping me guessing who the evil person behind all the mayhem was. This book, like the author's other books, was very hard to put down!
If you like reading Inspirational Suspense, you will love this book! I can't wait to read the next book in this series! I'm off to do that now! Join me in the series!
I liked the characters and the Faith-based storyline. The suspense flowed throughout the book, keeping me guessing who the evil person behind all the mayhem was. This book, like the author's other books, was very hard to put down!
If you like reading Inspirational Suspense, you will love this book! I can't wait to read the next book in this series! I'm off to do that now! Join me in the series!
April 11, 2024
Shadow
Unbelievable series! I absolutely loved book #2. I started reading and couldn't put it dwn until I finished it. Austin is pulled into his next assignment unaware of what it holds. Where past meets present. Will there be a future. Especially if a world terrorist has her way. It got pretty crazy at one point but it was so intriguing.
Unbelievable series! I absolutely loved book #2. I started reading and couldn't put it dwn until I finished it. Austin is pulled into his next assignment unaware of what it holds. Where past meets present. Will there be a future. Especially if a world terrorist has her way. It got pretty crazy at one point but it was so intriguing.
April 12, 2024
Awesome read. This one was a bit different on the romance angle.....Austin and Emily had had a one night stand years before, and she didn't even know his last name.
The book had a lot of suspense and drama, and there were a few surprises, though I was starting to suspect early on that the kidnapping was not about the parent that the author led readers to believe....
The book had a lot of suspense and drama, and there were a few surprises, though I was starting to suspect early on that the kidnapping was not about the parent that the author led readers to believe....
April 14, 2024
Heart-Pounding Suspence
Arson, kidnapping, and secret parentage keeps this book flowing at warp speed. Emily awakens to find her house on fire and her daughter’s room engulfed. Terror fills her until she receives a text saying that her daughter is safe. Now the man who shows up to help is her daughter’s father!
Hang on tight. You are about to go on a wild ride.
Arson, kidnapping, and secret parentage keeps this book flowing at warp speed. Emily awakens to find her house on fire and her daughter’s room engulfed. Terror fills her until she receives a text saying that her daughter is safe. Now the man who shows up to help is her daughter’s father!
Hang on tight. You are about to go on a wild ride.
May 7, 2024
Whether you read the first book in the series or started Shadow Chaser as a stand-alone, the gripping action, suspense and tension among the characters will grab your attention until the final word. There's a small open window for continued mystery for the next edition.
4.5/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
4.5/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
May 10, 2024
Shadow Chaser
I've read the story but didn't enjoy it as much as I normally enjoy Christy Barritt's stories. I found it easy to put down and walk away, I think it was because Emily was forever going over things in her head and a lot of that was on repeat, which made it tedious. There were a few things left unfinished, so no complete closure with this story.
I've read the story but didn't enjoy it as much as I normally enjoy Christy Barritt's stories. I found it easy to put down and walk away, I think it was because Emily was forever going over things in her head and a lot of that was on repeat, which made it tedious. There were a few things left unfinished, so no complete closure with this story.
December 29, 2024
Suspense at its best
Lots of questions to answer in this suspenseful romance. Suspects galore, personal feelings confused, and suspicion in people once trusted. Someone is trying to kill her and they've kidnapped her daughter! Why? Who? Where are they? Find those answers and more by delving into the story!
This is a clean read.
Lots of questions to answer in this suspenseful romance. Suspects galore, personal feelings confused, and suspicion in people once trusted. Someone is trying to kill her and they've kidnapped her daughter! Why? Who? Where are they? Find those answers and more by delving into the story!
This is a clean read.
November 2, 2025
3.5 stars. I enjoyed the suspense and excitement, especially toward the end. But I really didn't like having the enemy be someone we didn't encounter until the book was half over. There was no way to anticipate who it was, no way to guess. Is it person A or B? No, surprise, it's someone else entirely!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2026
Shadows?
I have read all of Christy Barritt's books up through this book in this series from the first Squeaky Clean books and loved them all. This book has left me struggling for closure. There are way too many loose ends. I am not sure I want to read any more of this series. I will see what the reviews show.
I have read all of Christy Barritt's books up through this book in this series from the first Squeaky Clean books and loved them all. This book has left me struggling for closure. There are way too many loose ends. I am not sure I want to read any more of this series. I will see what the reviews show.
April 10, 2024
Exciting, intriguing!
Plenty of suspense, intrigue and twists and turns, plus a little romance, kept me interested from the first to last pages. This latest book by Christy Barritt does not disappoint.
Plenty of suspense, intrigue and twists and turns, plus a little romance, kept me interested from the first to last pages. This latest book by Christy Barritt does not disappoint.
April 13, 2024
shadow chaser
This book was so intriguing and suspenseful I couldn’t put it down. I read it through in one day and it was one surprise after another. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves suspense novels. Excellent book!
This book was so intriguing and suspenseful I couldn’t put it down. I read it through in one day and it was one surprise after another. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves suspense novels. Excellent book!
April 13, 2024
Romantic suspense
Lots of suspense and danger as Austin helps to locate Emily's kidnapped daughter. As clues are solved, more questions are raised. Gripping story from start to finish.
Lots of suspense and danger as Austin helps to locate Emily's kidnapped daughter. As clues are solved, more questions are raised. Gripping story from start to finish.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews