Sebastian: Christian Romantic Suspense

by Susan Lower

Haunted by a past mistake, an undercover cop risks everything to protect the family he left behind.

Once a decorated cop, Sebastian’s now a fugitive with a bounty on his head. Haunted by a failed undercover operation, he swore off motorcycle clubs and women.

Caitlyn thought she had escaped the clutches of her abusive ex, but when he resurfaced with threats to take her son, she became trapped and desperate.

Sebastian risks exposing his true identity, jeopardizing his family's safety to return to his hometown and pay an old debt.

When the web of deceit tightens, Caitlyn must make a heart-wrenching choice. Can she trust the enigmatic biker to help protect her son, or will the truth tear them apart?

Genres: Romantic Suspense, Clean Romance

259 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 2, 2024

About the author

Susan Lower writes clean and wholesome romance, romantic suspense, and mystery filled with cowboys, heroes, and hope.

Reviews

[DayDreamer8912 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5
Genre: Romantic Suspense/ Christian Romance
🚨TW: mention of loss of a friend, abused, being threaten, trauma

Read it if you like:
🏍 Protective MMC
🏍 Single Mom FMC
🏍 Motorcycle Clubs
🏍 Romantic Suspense
🏍 Dark pasts
🏍 Christian Elements

Favourite Moments
🏍 They first met
🏍 Moments with his brothers and also Jovie
🏍 Their outing together with her son Owen
🏍 Him looking out for her at the side
🏍 The friendship between their friends.
🏍 Him helping her whenever he can though she told him not to.
🏍 Moments with Yeats and Sammy.
(lots more)

Swoony Moments
🏍 He cares and protect her
🏍 He is there for her and her son whenever she needs him
🏍 He loves his family and do whatever he can to protect them
🏍 He brings her and her son to have fun
🏍 He brings her ice coffee

Synopsis:
Sebastian/Daniel
An undercover ex cop who is trying to keep his whereabouts secret in order to keep his love ones safe.

Caitlyn
A single mother who is struggling to take care of her son and father. Her father used to be a the leader of the Ghost rider which she really want to get out of it.

With the help of Yeats, Sebastian post as Daniel and work under him as a motorcycle trainer and also landscaping. They met each other at the motorcycle course. Things get interesting when her ex husband is bailed out of prison early. And ironically, he is in the quest of finding her best friend's brother, Sebastian and threaten her to get information about his whereabouts. What will she do? What will Sebastian do to protect his family, Caitlyn and her son, Owen? Read Sebastian to find out.


Review:
Sebastian is such a sweet guy and wants to protect his family and the people he loves away from trouble. He fell in love with Caitlyn and her boy and wanted to be there for them when they needed him though Caitlyn was rejecting for his help, he still keep an eye on her in case which also stirred up her heart. The way he gets along with her boy and they spend more time together their feelings grow. And there is a plot twist that you never see it coming too. This is the first time ever reading a motorcycle club series there are dramas around and sometimes it sent shivers as I read. Love that he never give up on protecting Caitlyn and Owen though she pushes him every single time. And they have get friends around them too, Yeats and Sammy always ready to hear their worries, giving them the comfort that they needed and also advises to help them through and also help them realised God is in control of their life and will always protect them. Can’t really spoil much about it especially suspense stories because if I tell everything out it will be such a spoiler. You all have to find out yourself by reading it.

What I learn:
God will always be with us wherever we go. God will never leave us because He loves us. We just have to have faith in Him and persevere on and lean on Him.

I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @readslower and her PA @_fatima_books_ for the ARC.

This is the first book that I read from Susan Lower and loved it. Can’t wait to read the previous book of this series and also the next book of the series. Would love to read Yeats love story. Before reading this book, I suggest you all to read the previous books first because it is link to the story.

You can order this book on Amazon and it’s available on KU.

[Amanda McGee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before I begin, I would like to thank Susan Lower for allowing me to read her upcoming book, Sebastian, which will be available on Amazon on October 2nd, 2024.

Sebastian used to be a decorated cop until an undercover operation went wrong. Now he’s in hiding with a bounty on his head, and he wants nothing to do with motorcycle clubs or women. Caitlyn thought that she and her son were safe from her abusive ex, but when he returns with threats to harm her son, she feels cornered and tries her best to figure out what to do. Sebastian has to return to his hometown to settle something from his past, even if it means exposing his identity and risking his family’s safety. Can Caitlyn and Sebastian learn to trust each other as the danger they’re in escalates? Or will they all have to go into hiding forever?

This was a great book. You have Caitlyn, a hardworking, strong, determined young woman that is devoted to taking care of her son. You have Sebastian, a young, brave, protective former cop dedicated to taking care of people in need, even if it means being away from his family. I loved watching Sebastian interact with Caitlyn’s son, especially when the three of them were together. Discussions of faith were woven in nicely, especially as tensions rose throughout the book. It was interesting seeing the different dynamics of the two motorcycle clubs that were featured in this book, and the suspense was done well. Overall, if you like great banter, Christian suspense, complex characters, and sweet romance with low amounts of spice, then I would highly recommend this book. Here’s the link for more information: Amazon.com: Sebastian: Christian Romantic Suspense (Thunder Valley MC Book 3) eBook : Lower, Susan: Kindle Store

[Christi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I came into the Thunder Valley MC series with this particular novel, which is the third in the series. It’s clear that there has been a lot that has transpired up to this point, so I struggled a bit to fully submerse myself in the story, especially when I feel like I’m coming in blind. I am not a motorcycle girlie by any means, but I do admire motorcycles from afar, especially Harley’s. In saying that, I know nothing about riding or biker gangs, so I initially struggled to find anything to tether myself to but there is something refreshing about this literary world that I am unfamiliar with, so I pressed on.

This book gives hope that there are still good people in the world. My heart truly went out to Caitlyn trying to balance all of the plates that are currently spinning in her life, not to mention complications popping up one right after the other. The poor woman couldn’t catch a break and it’s hard not to sympathize with her. I didn’t feel like Sebastian and Caitlyn had a natural attraction, but Sebastian’s relationship with Caitlyn’s son Owen was solid. Their scenes together were some of the sweetest moments in the novel. Though the ending felt rushed, and a little too tidy, it was sweet nonetheless, which I was grateful for after the heavier subject matter.

Though this can be read as a standalone I feel like it would be better understood and enjoyed if you read the first two novels in the series first. There are some gleaming moments, and the suspense is decent, but overall, I struggled to connect.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Courtnie ~ courtniemustreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so exciting and thrilling!

Sebastian recently walked away from being a cop after an uncover job gone wrong. He returns to his hometown with a false identity in order to look out for his family. Caitlyn is a single mom trying to take care of her father and son. When her abusive ex returns, Sebastian does what he can to protect Caitlyn and her son.

This book is the third in the series and although I haven’t read the first two, I thought it read really well as a standalone. With that being said I definitely want to go back and read the first two after reading this one. I loved the Christian elements and the character development! This book reminded me of the show Blue Bloods with the strong family ties, the life threatening situation, and the Christian values. I loved this book and the suspense that came with it.

I loved how the romance was clean with one passionate kiss and very little swearing. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an exciting, action packed romance!

[Lili · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like well written books reminding us that there are many good people in the world, and some of them willingly go through the pain of sacrificing their lives, their personal relationships and family ties to fight evil. It is so easy to just live in the moment in our own sphere and forget to appreciate the anonymous heroes trudging on in their fight to save others - lawmen, first responders, doctors, social workers and even teachers.

The plot is coherent, the characters well rounded and the writing conveys all the feelings and motivations in a suspenseful story of finding and losing love in the most unexpected of places.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not necessarily my favorite ARC read but it was a good story. I thought the main character, Sebastian still battled with being a protector even until the end, never seeming to quite let go of control. I also felt like for being an ex cop that he wasn’t the brightest. The story had brief faith elements. I had never read a story about motorcycle gangs before so that was new and interesting. Also unsure if my poorly edited copy of the book caused me to miss out on the actual flow of the story. However, I was reassured that it would be all corrected before release. On a very positive note I did enjoy Cat’s character, and I feel like she was well characterized in her role as a single mom, in her struggle to stay true to her faith, herself, and her family.

[Christie Pollard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sebastian is a police officer trying to protect his family from a motorcycle gang he took down while working undercover. He is trying to lay low with a cover alternate identity. Kaytlyn is the ex-wife of the former gang leader and the daughter of the previous leader of the motorcycle gang. Can Sebastian protect both her and her son and his own family?

This is a suspenseful romance with Christian principles.

I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is entirely voluntary and unbiased.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angela - Enjoy Life With Me Podcast · Rating 3 out of 5]

The writing seems to have improved as the series goes on even if it’s still not as smooth on the time transitions.

The story line is very interesting and keeps you coming back to see what happens next.

I do wish the books had a bit more of a Happily Ever After wrap up for the couples but I get that it’s a series and they’re very intertwined. So make sure you start with Haden which is Book1.

Content:
Style - Multi-POV, Christian Suspense (hidden identity)
Intimacy - Mild (low descript kisses)
Language - None
Violence - High (no gore)
Potential Triggers - Past criminal activity, attempt/ murder, domestic abuse

[Michaela|Reading in the Heartland · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in a series but my first book by this author. You can definitely tell a lot happened in the first two books that affects this book a lot.

This is a Christian Motorcycle Club Romantic Suspense. It was a good read. There was a sweet little boy. Some things seemed a bit predictable and there were some convenient “outs.” It was a good read. There was romance, suspense, motorcycle clubs and gangs, Christianity, and family.

I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Sebastian used to be an undercover cop but after a failed operation, he’s now hunted by a gang, but still wants to keep an eye on his family. Caitlyn thought she had escaped her abusive biker ex-husband, but when he is released from prison early, he’s back and causing her and their son problems. She and Sebastian work together on a motorcycle certification program and he befriends her son. A great book to finish to this series. The intrigue and family dynamics are interesting and compelling.

[Kitty Elder · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn’t initially sure about reading a motorcycle club romance, but it turned out to be a good book. The characters are well written, the plot moves along enough to keep you interested, and there’s a twist near the end I didn’t see coming. There are Christian elements and even a Christian motorcycle club but the book doesn’t come across as preachy. And there is a happy ending. There’s even a link in the back of the book to sigh up for the author’s newsletter and get bonus scenes.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was happy to read the third book as familiar characters reappeared plus the biker culture is interesting to read about as members have such a strong sense of belonging and loyalty. I was glad to see the faith element woven in naturally and there are enough twists that kept me reading and an ending I could feel good about.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book from this author that I have read and I was not disappointed. It has a great storyline and interesting aspects to it that grabs you. This is the third book in the series so I am sure there is a lot I missed but I was still able to understand it and not be lost. There was also inspirational moments throughout and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

I was given a complimentary ARC copy and this is my opinion.

[RoseVE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding The Truth

Sebastian was hiding in his home town, avoiding a contract on his life. He feared for his family so he stayed close. Caitlyn was another woman Sebastian was drawn to and wanting to protect. But after his failure to protect Audra he told himself not to get involved. The plot twists are very interesting and keep the reader guessing to the very end. It's a great story.

[Bonnie Theel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read the other two Thunder Valley MC books, "Haden" and "Roscoe". I was looking forward to this book, and it was worth the wait.

Sebatian and Caitlyn got off to a rocky start. Would they be able to get past this and possibly form a relationship? You definitely won't be disappointed.

I received a free ARC, and this is my honest opinion.

[Nupur · Rating 4 out of 5]

A motorbike club romance that has a bit of suspense and but if faith and so much going on. Loved the writing and the narrations. It got a bit confusing for me in between but as I read through things worked out. Lovely book and beautifully crafted characters. Loved Cat’s character and how she juggled with her daily life being a single mother. Definitely recommended.

[quillsandpages · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book was good. Anyone looking for romantic suspense with closed-door romance. This book is for you. Although it's 3rd in the Thunder Valley MC series but can be read as stand-alone. ✨👍

Full review is here on my blog 👇

Blog | Linktree

[Rory Carlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is filled with faith and suspense. The characters are well developed and I love the gritty feel of the book. The author is able to dive into tough topics with a Christian worldview. This is such an addictive story and I’m excited to read the other books set in this world.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my heart went out to Caitlyn! She was really in between a rock and a hard place with her Ex husband threats and not being able to trust her own father to protect her family. She worked so hard to get by. I was so happy to see how Sebastian stepped in and made her load lighter, spent time with her son, and was just there in the critical moments. Sebastian was true book hero material!

I loved the plot twists! The book took me on a great ride. I haven’t read the whole series, just the first book. But it didn’t matter, it can be read on it’s own. Although I do feel like going back to read more in this series because I enjoyed it.

Rating: PG-13, no sex, closed door romance, no language, however there is gun violence, shooting and killing, not graphically described, a side character has a drinking problem that negatively effects others, physically abusive ex husband.

[Lissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Sebastian & Caitlyn's heartbreaking, intense, caring, loving story!!

[bookgirlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED IT!!!!

Tropes:
Christian romance
Protective MMC
Single mom
Dark pasts
Motorcycle clubs
Twists

Scenes I loved:

“You waited all this time to bring me an ice coffee?" her voice was tight with emotion.
“I wanted to make sure you were all right.”

“You could have died. Kissing me is not worth your life.”
A smile twitched on his lips. “You’re right. I can’t kiss you if I’m dead, but your kisses aren’t what got me shot.”

“Caitlyn wasn’t anything near the sister vibe. The woman caused him to do things, nice things, like mow yards, buy ice cream, and play car racing games with her son. He needed to get out while he still held part of himself together.”


READ IT

[Kat Crowder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sebastian is the third book in the Thunder Valley MC series. I did not know that before I started reading the book but I loved it. I could tell there was some back story that I didn't know about but I feel like it was explained well enough for me to know what was going on. It could definitely be read on its own. I really enjoyed the book.

I have never read a book from Susan and I loved this book. I felt like I understood the characters and was invested in their story.

[E'Who'Reads'a'Thousand'Mysteries · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is outside my comfort zone with all babies, bikers and praying... yet I must acknowledge the high quality, vivid storytelling as very compelling. The characters are layered with insight and depth.