Novel Threat

Pen & Dagger #1

by Traci Hunter Abramson

In a world of covert codes, two CIA operatives must infiltrate a New York publishing house, where every word on the page could be a weapon.

Brandon Hale, a seasoned CIA case officer, contemplates walking away from the covert world of espionage to embark on a quieter path in publishing. But his plan takes an abrupt turn when a critical source within the Labyrinth terrorist organization is assassinated, leaving behind a cryptic message about a New York publishing house. Rather than submitting his resignation, Brandon finds himself going undercover at Monroe Publishing to stop the next terrorist strike against the US.

Kimber Seidel, a CIA finance officer with secret aspirations of becoming a novelist, enjoys a serendipitous encounter with a handsome book lover like herself on her way home from London. Though she cannot reveal her true employment to her new friend, Brandon Hale, she can’t deny the instant spark that ignites between them. When Kimber’s manuscript is unexpectedly shopped to Monroe Publishing as a pawn in the CIA’s counterterrorism plot, Kimber must navigate the intersection of her literary dreams and her covert life as well as her deepening connection with Brandon.

Though each decoded message is leading Brandon and Kimber closer to the truth, it is also leading them into the line of fire, where the stakes are higher than anyone ever imagined.

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

320 pages, Hardcover

Published April 1, 2025

About the author

Traci Hunter Abramson was born in Arizona, where she lived until moving to Venezuela for a study-abroad program. After graduating from Brigham Young University, she worked for the Central Intelligence Agency for several years, eventually resigning in order to raise her family. She credits the CIA with giving her a wealth of ideas as well as the skills needed to survive her children's teenage years. She is a eight-time Whitney Award winner and has written more than forty bestselling novels. For more information about Traci, click here: https://linktr.ee/traciabramson

Reviews

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an edgy, suspenseful read that kept me turning the pages to the end. It is the story of two CIA employees, one an operative and the other a finance worker, unknown to each other but put together undercover working in and with a publishing firm in NYC to find someone in the firm working to help a terrorist in Wales. The terrorist is dangerous and hard to track but the FBI and CIA are working to find him. Brandon was transferred from London to work the job and Kimber was working at Langley, both likable and interesting characters. She has written a book and it is used to get her foot in the door and get it published while Brandon works as an assistant. Intrigue, danger, and the unknown person in plain sight make this book engaging with mystery and action. Romance rounds it out to add tension to the situation. This is a great read and I had trouble putting it down.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. These are my thoughts.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a neat romantic suspense! I was really curious how this story was going to work with CIA agents trying to track down the bad guys at a book publisher. It was so interesting! I was definitely hooked from the beginning! It was fun seeing the publishing side of the book industry. I loved the Brandon was undercover at Monroe publishing and Kimber was undercover as a writer. But she also writes books and she is a bookworm too! Brandon and Kimber meet coincidentally a few times and don’t know the other is CIA and will be working together, but are attracted to one another. I thought that was fun. I loved that we got the villains pov along with Kimber and Brandon’s. I thought there were good moments of great suspense. And of course great romance between Brandon and Kimber, I loved them! Overall, I thought this a terrific story and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Content: shootings/death/murder

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brandon Hale, a seasoned CIA operative contemplates walking away from the covert world to a quieter world of publishing. It takes an abrupt turn when a critical source within the Labyrinth terrorist organization is assassinated.

Kimber Seidel, a CIA financial officer with secret aspirations to become an author meets Brandon Hale, a fellow and handsome book lover on her way home from London.

I loved this fast-paced world of publishing, finance, and stopping bombs and grenades! I loved all of the side characters and how one thing after another kept this going. This was so much fun to read about, and while I was disappointed to read the last installment of the Saint Squad series(same author)I was thrilled with a new one that is maybe even better, I can’t wait for the next one! And you can’t forget Trudy who knew her superpower wasn’t baking cookies!

My gratitude to Netgalley and Shadow Mountain. All opinions expressed are honest and mine.

[Jeni | StoryTimeReviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if the CIA infiltrated the publishing world & paired a protective operative with a secretly-dreaming-of-being-published finance officer—𝙉𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡 𝙏𝙝𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩 by Traci Hunter Abramson is your answer. And it’s an absolute blast.

It’s Mission: Impossible meets You’ve Got Mail… except there are actual bad guys, a fake author persona, a manuscript used as a covert op tool (yes, really), & a swoony slow-burn romance that builds while terrorists loom & secrets swirl.

Kimber dreams of publishing. Brandon dreams of retiring. Neither gets what they planned. Instead, they get explosions, espionage, encrypted messages, fake identities, real feelings, & exactly zero time to figure any of it out before all chaos breaks loose.

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL LOVE
📚 Undercover CIA in a publishing house
❤️ He falls first (and hard)
🕵️‍♂️ Dual agents, dual POV, dual secrets
✍️ Fake author setup = literary chaos
🔥 Slow-burn swoon with heart-pounding suspense
⏰ Ticking clock + plot twists galore
💥 Real action, real feelings, real stakes
✨ First in a new series (YES!)

TOP MOMENTS TO WATCH FOR
💠 That adorably awkward meet-cute on the plane
💠 When Brandon realizes he’s not the only one undercover
💠 Kimber’s manuscript becoming a spy tool (because of course it does)
💠 Trudy being an absolute legend (cookies not included)
💠 That moment in the hallway. Yeah. That one.

💬 Final Thoughts: Novel Threat was exactly the kind of smart, action-packed, clean romantic suspense I didn’t know I needed. The blend of bookish banter and CIA-level stakes hit that sweet spot between heart-pounding and heartwarming.

💬 Kimber and Brandon have electric chemistry—but what really stood out was how grounded and competent they both were. No eye-roll drama, no swoony nonsense—just two smart people navigating impossible choices, hidden identities, and growing feelings under pressure.

💬 Also? Trudy deserves her own spin-off. Possibly titled Cookies & Covert Ops.

💬 This is the kind of book you fly through in a day, grin about for a week, and immediately want a sequel to. Luckily—it’s the first in a series!

STAR RATING: 4/5 stars. Fast-paced, clever, and refreshingly clean, Novel Threat delivers a unique blend of spy-level suspense and bookish charm. The undercover-in-publishing twist felt fresh, and the slow-burn romance had just the right amount of tension. The only downside? A few plot points required a generous suspension of disbelief—but honestly, I was having too much fun to mind.

I received a complimentary copy, but a positive review was not required.

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written by a former CIA operative, you can expect a thrilling, page-turning romantic suspense, and this story definitely delivers! It completely stumped me, as I didn’t figure out who was behind the crimes until the very end. The depth and detail of the mystery were brilliantly crafted, with twists and turns that kept me hooked.

Here’s why I loved this book:
💥 Chemistry between Kimber and Brandon
🕵️‍♂️ Layered mystery
📚 The publisher angle: authors, publishers, and ARC copies? Right up my alley!
❤️Their Meet-cute...perfect.

Sneak peek favorites:
🧐 Code words
📖 Unique ARC copies
💋 Making BETTER memories in the elevator
👫 Secret identities overlapping

I can't wait to see what’s next in this series!

I received a complimentary copy, and this review reflects my honest opinion.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this was a fabulous book! It was fast-paced and I was loving it throughout! The supporting characters were delightful and our evil! Great way to support the adorable couple! I was there for the journey that was scary and beautiful! I loved this book! This author really knows how to write a romance full of movement and courage!

Thanks to NetGalley for this book and all opinions are my own!

[Charity · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know, I don't read books for the romance. I know-some of you are horrified, and some are right there with me. I also am not generally a fan of insta-love. But Traci Hunter Abramson did it really well.

She also threw in a few heart-pounding moments, which I am ALL about in suspense books! And knowing that there will be a continuation of the series? I'm here for it!

Throw in that stunning cover, and I just need the entire series right. NOW.

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

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

No one writes the kind of romantic suspense thriller that I love better than Traci Hunter Abramson. I was immediately awestruck and drawn right into the story of two CIA operatives and their mission to take down a big crime organization. Add to that the world of writing and publishing? Yes, I was hooked.

Brandon and Kimber have an instant connection, full of layers and secrets, but also ladened with chemistry. So many coincidences led them to heart-pounding, perilous situations and I couldn’t put this one down. This Pen & Dagger series is going to be on my favorites list for sure.

The whole cast of characters is a book-full of fun–Tessa (Kimber’s sister), Mark (a co-worker), Trudy (the cookie-baking neighbor) and more, but I especially loved Brandon and Kimber. They are portrayed exactly how I would picture being in such a situation: confident, hesitant, capable, strong.

Filled with adventure, heart-stopping stolen kisses, many twists and turns, and deadly circumstances, this book is a rewarding read and I can’t wait for the next installment.

Content: non-graphic death; moments of peril; mild, swoony romance

*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*

[Tiffany (Work Kids N Books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love police/procedural shows like NCIS, Brooklyn 99, or White Collar, this book is for you!

From the prologue through the final chapter I was on the edge of my seat! From the asset who accidentally sees incriminating information to the leader of the group who wants to make America feel the same pain they did, this book is nonstop action!

The characters are deep, endearing, and human to boot. I loved them all! The author who never thought their writing would see the light of day, the operative who has to use his CIA skills to keep his somewhat menial job, and the neighbor who always has baked goods make this a story worth reading!

I loved that this romantic suspense included so much more than romance and suspense; it includes humor, intrigue, a look into the life of an author, as well as what one must do to enter the world of the famous.

I could rave about this read all day! If you’ve made it this far in the review go and read it!

Really though. Do it. You won’t regret it.

Read this book if you like:
✍🏼 Writing Novels
✍🏼 The Best Meet Cute on a Plane
✍🏼 FaceTiming
✍🏼 Contracts
✍🏼 Dating
✍🏼 Libraries
✍🏼 Walks in the Snow
✍🏼 Coffee Orders
✍🏼 ARCs
✍🏼 Baked Goods
✍🏼 Difficult Coworkers
✍🏼 Unexpected Turns

Content: personal danger consistent with working for the CIA, an assassination (mild description), suspense, romance- kisses only

Thank you to @tracihunterabramson for the #gifted copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Anna (The_Reading_Pantry) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Novel Threat by Traci Hunter Abramson is a thrilling, fast-paced read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. As a fan of spy novels, I loved how Traci seamlessly blends espionage with the world of writing, creating a unique and exciting backdrop for the story.

One of my favorite aspects was the chemistry between the main characters. Their initial meeting had such a sweet, serendipitous vibe, and I loved how their connection deepened as the story unfolded. Without giving too much away, I can say that the twist of their true identities added such a fun layer of intrigue to an already captivating story.

Traci’s ability to weave suspense, romance, and action together is truly a talent, and this book is no exception. The pacing is perfect, and I was constantly curious to see what would happen next. If you’re a fan of spy thrillers that have heart, Novel Threat is a must-read!

I really enjoyed this one and can’t wait to see what Traci has in store next. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thrilling, engaging read!

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 4 out of 5]

**4.5 stars**

I have taken a reviewer hiatus due to burnout. This is the first book that I have wanted to review in a long time.

I loved "Novel Threat". Traci Hunter Abramson has combined two of her worlds in one book. Her time in the CIA and her current profession as an author.

The book has a fast pace, wonderful characters, and two operatives working together to take down a terrorist. I read this novel in a day. I did not want to put it down, a desire I have not had in a long time.

I give this book my highest recommendation.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Laramee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so excited for this new series by Traci Hunter Abramson! This romantic suspense pulls you in from the very first page and will keep you reading past your bed time!

I received an ARC from the publisher and all opinions are my own.

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you ready for a new series from Traci Hunter Abramson? If you've read her books before, or if this will be your first read from her, you're in a real treat! I loved it! I had to set it down and pause in my reading and didn't want it. I was pulled in completely and invested in these characters and the challenges they were facing. You're going to want to avoid some things when you're reading this book. Haha! Seriously I was a little jumpy. Thankfully I didn't have to be in any elevators during the time I was reading the book. I don't think I would have gotten in one if I had to. Stairs all the way for me! You'll understand when you read the book, and I'm sure you'll be wanting to avoid elevators for a while. *winks*

I loved how this book focused on novel writing, publishing and all the good stuff with books! It was definitely a page turner! *Pun intended!!!* And Kimber and Brandon definitely helped in me wanting to turn those pages quickly! Their first meeting had me laughing. I loved how well they worked together and the chemistry that was so natural for them. It was perfection! Add in the secondary characters and the bad guys plotting all the things and you're going to be turning those pages quickly as well.

Make sure you have plenty of time in your schedule to dive into this one because trust me, you won't want to have to pause! And can we just go back to the fact that this is a series? Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes!!!!!! I am here for them all!!!

Content: Clean. This book does have suspense and moments of peril and death. There are some kisses but nothing further. With all of that content it was written to be a clean read.

I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Steve · Rating 2 out of 5]

What was billed as a CIA thriller set in the world of publishing with a hint of romance turned out to be an unmemorable read. Brandon and Kimber are two very dull CIA agents brought in to help with a very generic terrorist plot and end up in a bland and unconvincing romance. While this book was a quick and straight forward read it's one of those books that is instantly forgettable. Things fall into place so perfectly that any hint of tension is removed from the story and the "clues" uncovered on the trail of the terrorists just kind of show up when required without much work from the generic characters which all together failed to keep me invested or interested in any of it. I received a free Kindle ARC of this novel from the publisher.

[Mara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who knew the world of book publishing could be deadly? Traci Hunter Abramson literally starts this new series with a bang. When CIA agent Brandon Hale's informant is killed, his plan of leaving the agency and starting a new career in publishing is shelved. His new assignment has him moving to NYC to work undercover at Monroe Publishing.

Enter Kimber Seidel, a finance officer for the CIA who secretly dreams of being a published author. Kimber’s world is turned upside down when her unpublished manuscript becomes part of the CIA’s operation, drawing her into the mission and into danger she never anticipated.

I didn't want to put this book down and wasn't happy when life interrupted my reading. I HAD to know what was going to happen to Brandon & Kimber, who was the person on the inside at Monroe Publishing, would the bad-guy-in-charge be caught, and so much more!! Lives were hanging in the balance!

I loved the intertwining of espionage and the literary world—all the behind-the-scenes stuff was so interesting! The chemistry between Brandon and Kimber is immediate yet believable; their relationship has some tension but also tenderness. I liked that the romantic subplot added an emotional layer to the story but didn't overshadow the thriller elements. About the thriller elements—holy moly!! The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat! I loved the multiple POV, that Brandon fell first (guys falling first is now one of my favorite things), and all the plot twists! I was shocked at the inside guy reveal! Aside from the great main characters, the side characters are great. I really liked Kimber's best friend Mark and Trudy with all her fresh-baked goodies.

Traci Hunter Abramson is one of my favorite romantic suspense authors, and I love that this is the start of a new series. I know this one just released but I cannot wait for the next book.

I received a copy from the publisher and an ebook via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.

[Leslie Books and Socks Rock · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun action packed book! I loved the CIA blending with the literary world with undercover, secret agents and not sure who to trust.

Traci Hunter Abramson always delivers on a fully executed story with a touch of romance. It’s easy to rook for the good guys and seeing the bad guys POV reaching the climax makes for an unputdownable book!

This book released last week and is the start of a new series. Can’t wait for more! Love Brandon and Kimber!

Thanks to the publisher for the arc copy. These are my own thoughts and opinions.

Content: fighting, death, assault, chase scene and mild fear

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

With a clever title and its description, I was excited to read this story. As an avid reader, entering into the world of publishing with CIA operatives was fascinating and a lot of fun. I could see myself right there on book signing tours and going to parties with famous people. Kimber Seidel has secretly always wanted to be a published author, and she gets the opportunity to do just that in order to investigate what involvement the executives have with the terrorist organization, Labyrinth. Working alongside of her is Brandon Hale who is posing as an administrative assistant for one very demanding boss. Together, they make a great team of bringing down the people who mean to kill a great number of people.

You’re sure to love this book for its action, suspense, the clues that are uncovered, and the romantic element between Brandon and Kimber. This is the first book in the Pen and Dagger series and one I am eagerly waiting to read the next book.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own, and a positive review was not required.

[The Swoony Awards]

This book has been nominated for a 2025 Swoony Award, to vote for it click here: Swoony Awards.

[Tenille · Rating 5 out of 5]

Traci did it again! It’s way past midnight and I had to finish tonight! Sleep can wait!
I loved getting to know some new characters, but still had the suspense and romance and fun that I’m used to.
When this book comes out next spring, you’re going to love it!

[Ines Robles · Rating 2 out of 5]

While there were some cute moments throughout the book, the characters felt flat and the plot was not very engaging.
Thank you NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review!
Out April 1st, 2025

[Alicia (aliciasbooksanctuary) · Rating 4 out of 5]

OVERALL STAR RATING: 4/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5

I buddy read this one with my hubby and am so excited to report we’ve officially found another author that we can both enjoy. Fast paced and FULL of suspense that left us completely guessing. Best of all is the way this plot revolves around a CIA agent going undercover at a publishing company. I just adore books that focus on the book world.

The Labyrinth terrorist group is making big moves, filtering money from someone working on the inside at Monroe Publishing while planning a major terrorist attack. Brandon Hale is just the CIA operative to go undercover at Monroe. CIA member Kimber Seidel has aspiring dreams of becoming an author. The CIA decides the best bet for her to get inside Monroe Publishing is to fast track her manuscript to success. Under the pen name of Kimber Frost, she starts making big moves within the publishing company and gains a great amount of access into the elite level of those working within. Her authoring dreams are coming true, but trying to stop terrorists must remain her focus. Although focusing is easier said than done when she realizes she’s not the only undercover CIA operative assigned to this mission.

Brandon and Kimber have a great personal and working relationship. Kimber has sworn off the idea of ever dating a CIA agent, but the chemistry between her and Brandon is undeniable. Can any type of relationship withstand the amount of danger they find themselves tangled up in around every corner while working this case? You’ll just have to read and find out.

The last 25% or so of this book really keeps you glued to the pages. SO many suspicious characters that I didn’t know who to trust or believe. It was intense in the best of ways.

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

*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary

[Sheila (sheilasbookreviewer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new series by author Traci Hunter Abramson is always an exciting event. Novel Threat is the first book in the Pen and Dagger series. It includes everything fans expect from Abramson – CIA agents, espionage, terrorists, and a touch of romance.

The story pulls you in from the very first page and never slows down. It’s set in the world of publishing, which adds a fresh twist to the usual thriller. Kimber Seidel is a CIA finance officer and an aspiring author. Brandon Hale is a seasoned CIA case officer. The two are paired up to stop a terrorist plot. Kimber goes undercover as a rising author. Brandon works as a personal assistant for a big name at Monroe Publishing. Together, they try to find the mole inside the company helping terrorists plan an attack on the U.S. The chemistry between Kimber and Brandon is instant, making their partnership even more fun to follow.

The story’s cast of characters feels real. From the friendly neighbor who shares baked goods to Kimber’s lively sister. There’s also the gossipy coworkers Brandon interacts with and Amelia, his strong boss, who keeps you guessing.

My favorite parts were the action scenes—racing through New York and being chased by a hitman. But I won’t spoil the ending. The last few chapters are full of surprises, making every reader want to keep turning pages.

This romantic suspense story made me excited to meet new characters and see what would happen next. Abramson is good at keeping readers on their toes until the very end. I didn’t see the big reveal coming, thanks to all the red herrings. Novel Threat will make your heart race, challenge your thoughts, and leave your romantic side smiling at the sweet kisses and growing love. It’s a quick read thanks to its perfect mix of mystery, action, suspense, and believable romance.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Novel Threat
Author: Traci Hunter Abramson
📚
Dear Traci,
Ho.Ly.Cow! I am completely blown away by this book! I loved the whole thing, was stuck to the edge of my seat, and couldn’t read fast enough. This is a “just eat cold cereal for dinner tonight kids” kind of book, because I did not want to put it down.
I absolutely loved how you brought the world of espionage, undercover work, and all that is CIA together with the world of publishing. It was so much fun reading about authors and publishing books, but also getting the frequent adrenaline rush of meeting contacts, hidden identities, and fighting for one’s life. Whoo! It was so exciting!
Kimber is adorable. I really liked her character development throughout, gaining confidence by slow degrees, and valuing what she brought to the table. And I loved how her friend Mark, as well as Brandon, helped her foster that confidence, but didn’t give it to her.
And speaking of Mark, he’s hilarious and fantastic and I hope we get a book about him someday. I also have to add that Trudy is an absolute LEGEND! I love her SO MUCH!
It was so interesting how Brandon was a good CIA operative, but also wanted a different life for himself. I loved his dream. I want it to come true for him so badly! But he’s also really good at holding his own in a fight,and I like “watching” him do that, so I guess I’m a little torn. Ha! Anyway, I loved him! Your characters in this book were so good, so multifaceted and deep, and while the action of the story was plenty engaging, I loved the growth of the characters and their romance, too. Oh, and their meet cute and all the serendipity surrounding their meeting was just top notch. Love love love!
Basically, I loved this book a whole heap. It’s vying for the top spot of my favorite of your books, and that’s saying something, because I thought my top favorites couldn’t be beat. You just keep proving me wrong. 😉
Ever Yours,
Jessica


TW/CW: contains spying, tracking terrorist groups, shooting, death, hand-to-hand combat, bomb threats, and blood.

**Thanks to the publisher for the book. A positive review was neither requested nor expected. All thoughts are my own.

[Shayla Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOVEL THREAT
-A pen & dagger novel
by: Traci Hunter Abramson
@traciabramson

-I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

~In a world of covert codes, two CIA operatives must infiltrate a New York Publishing House, where every word on the page could be a weapon…

-NOVEL THREAT, will absolutely hook and demand your full attention, as it pulls you into a thrilling suspenseful adventure within a world full of espionage, danger, and deception. This story my friends, is a story that is engaging, fast-paced, and thoroughly enjoyable! It is an edge of your seat story that will have you reading and turning pages quickly to find out what happens next with the twists and turns along the way. What makes this thrilling adventure even more lovable, is the way it seamlessly merges espionage with the literary world, which in turn, creatively adds in a captivating and distinctive dimension to the story while making it such an unforgettable and connecting experience. With suspense pounding, it’s the heartfelt characters, who feel more relatable, and will have you more invested as you watch them be lead through the line of fire, where the stakes are much higher than you might have possibly imagined. Sparks will fly with the electrifying chemistry along the way as well! Oh what a heart-racing suspenseful romantic story written by a dear author, that is worth the thrilling read! I am here for it all!📚🙌🏻💯

“WITHIN MINUTES, SHE WAS IN A DIFFERENT WORLD, A PLACE WHERE HER CHARACTERS FACED ADVENTURE WITH DARING AND FINESSE, A PLACE WHERE INSECURITIES BECAME ENDEARING INSTEAD OF CRIPPLING, A PLACE WHERE LOVE WAS POSSIBLE.”

•Content: mild violence and death between undercover agents and spies in survival situations, romance-kisses only.

‘Everything was going to be okay. Maybe if he kept telling himself that, it would be true!’

-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

#novelthreat
#tracihunterabramson
#shadowmountainpub
#allaboutthebestreads

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't love this one as much. Maybe I've read too many of her books, but the plot is so predictable and I guessed who was behind it pretty quickly. I also prefer her books that don't have the chapters or sections from the POV of the bad guys or their names. The fictional world here was just a bit too unrealistic for me. A character who is extremely talented in finance, has a CIA background, and happened to have 3 books just sitting waiting for publishing, one of which was also good enough to make her a rising star in the authoring world was a bit too unbelievable for me. As was their chance meetings not once, not twice, but THREE TIMES (if you include the fact they lived by each other, or 4 if you count them working together). Brandon's character was also really intriguing at the beginning, but lost its intrigue as the plot developed which was sad. The only thing I really liked was Kimber's humble and kind personality. Then again, I still finished the book. This time it was more to get to the end and be done than out of interest, sadly.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Novel Threat” by Traci Hunter Abramson is the 1st book of a brand new series by this talented author. It is suspenseful, contemporary and heartfelt with characters to whom you quickly attach and immediately become invested in their success.

The story revolves around two CIA agents, one an operative, the other a financial analyst who are sent to work undercover in a well known New York publishing house. The mission is to uncover how it is connected to an international terrorist organization and eliminate the threat.
The financial analyst has been writing books in her spare time and the CIA sets up her cover to be the next literary superstar, her dream come true! Her partner becomes the personal assistant to the editor in charge and together they need to penetrate the organization and smoke out the terrorists.

This thriller is a fast paced journey into the world of publishing with unexpected twists with just the right amount of romance.
This book was so much fun to read and I can’t wait for book number two.

Thank you NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[The Sunshine Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Traci’s latest romantic suspense was absolute perfection! With bookish main characters, a fast paced and intriguing plot, and the perfect blend of suspense and romance, Novel Threat will definitely be one of my top reads of the year!

The premise of having an aspiring author in the CIA going essentially undercover at a publishing company was very creative and intriguing. It also resulted in an absolutely relatable, loveable, and creative character: Kimber. Introverted and bookish, yet also tough and trained, Kimber was the perfect main character for the story. I loved that she was also a fairly horribly liar- an interesting trait for someone working for the CIA, even if she mostly just worked for finance!

The delightful bookish theme of the book continued with Brandon: reader, undercover agent, and graduate of an Ivy League school with an interest in going into publishing. His plans to leave the CIA are upended as he is sent undercover at Monroe Publishing to help uncover the company’s connection to a group of terrorists. I loved all the bookish connections to Brandon as well as every single time an elevator was mentioned in the story (iykyk).

I also did not guess the ending at all and appreciated the multiple surprise elements to the story! Traci has a way of keeping me guessing until the very end. This for sure is a book that I’ll be recommending to everyone, not just romantic suspense fans, because I enjoyed it that much!

[Shauna · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Brief: Kimber dreams of being an author. When her dreams come true in an undercover way, the plot thickens and the danger becomes very real.

The Debrief: This author could make a book about weeding seem like the most intriguing chore on earth and perfectly explain why they keep showing up in the most determined places. She just has a way of keeping me on the edge of my seat and fully invested in the story. And of course I’m now an expert on all CIA and FBI things because of her books.

Brandon’s subtle ways and cool head was exactly the right balance to the suspense. And I loved Kimber. Smart and totally capable. Reads like an action packed movie with little heart melting romance woven into the plot. She also excelled at the fall for quickly vibe and I was there for all of it. Literally. Romantic suspense perfection.

The Rhyme: Decoding messages and escaping danger are a go to for Brandon and Kimber. When it comes down to the wire can they save lives before things escalate from an ember?

[Molly | Visitingmanygoodbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun book! The characters were well written and the plot was really intriguing. Once you get sucked in, you won’t want to put the book down! Kimber and Brandon were really cute together and I really liked their story. I also really loved their neighbor, Trudy! She was a sweetheart and I loved that she was always baking something! This is a really great suspense novel, and I highly recommend it!

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

[NaDell · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love a good mix of suspense, action, and romance, this book is for you!
It had pacing similar to the show 24 and also was based in a publishing office, so it had all kinds of fun quips about publishing a book and office shenanigans, plus an adorable meet cute!
This novel starts another great series from Traci Hunter Abramson who has written over 45 best-selling books!