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Luke Steele #1
Hometown Vendetta | A Luke Steele Novel
Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner must work together to unravel a deadly conspiracy before times runs out while also navigating their undercover fake relationship that is becoming all too real.
Booklist Starred "Abramson kicks off her newest series with a bang! Fans of Lynette Eason and Elizabeth Goddard will be delighted to find another author who writes edge-of-your-seat, inspirational, romantic suspense with strong female characters."
Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner must work together to unravel a deadly conspiracy before time runs out while also navigating their undercover fake relationship that is becoming all too real.
When a terrorist attack grips the nation, Luke Steele, a military aide to the president of the United States, is reassigned to track down the suspect because the alleged bomber was spotted wearing a state championship ring from Luke’s hometown. Luke has desperately tried to forget his high school years, but he can’t run from them now. Instead, he must face his most formidable assignment leave his post by the president’s side, return to Pine Falls, Virginia, and face every demon from his childhood—including every person and every thought that told him he wasn’t worth anything.
FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner has spent years tracking domestic terrorism. When she catches a break that could pinpoint the key player in the antigovernment group responsible for dozens of needless deaths, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get the information she seeks—even if it means going undercover as Luke Steele’s plus-one at his high school reunion. Though Amberlyn found Luke arrogant and aloof during their time together at Quantico, it doesn’t take long for her to discover that there’s much more to him than she realized. But even as the line between fact and fiction in their relationship blurs, the countdown to danger accelerates. Time is running out, and with the threat of another terrorist attack looming, the stakes are higher than ever.
Booklist Starred "Abramson kicks off her newest series with a bang! Fans of Lynette Eason and Elizabeth Goddard will be delighted to find another author who writes edge-of-your-seat, inspirational, romantic suspense with strong female characters."
Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner must work together to unravel a deadly conspiracy before time runs out while also navigating their undercover fake relationship that is becoming all too real.
When a terrorist attack grips the nation, Luke Steele, a military aide to the president of the United States, is reassigned to track down the suspect because the alleged bomber was spotted wearing a state championship ring from Luke’s hometown. Luke has desperately tried to forget his high school years, but he can’t run from them now. Instead, he must face his most formidable assignment leave his post by the president’s side, return to Pine Falls, Virginia, and face every demon from his childhood—including every person and every thought that told him he wasn’t worth anything.
FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner has spent years tracking domestic terrorism. When she catches a break that could pinpoint the key player in the antigovernment group responsible for dozens of needless deaths, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get the information she seeks—even if it means going undercover as Luke Steele’s plus-one at his high school reunion. Though Amberlyn found Luke arrogant and aloof during their time together at Quantico, it doesn’t take long for her to discover that there’s much more to him than she realized. But even as the line between fact and fiction in their relationship blurs, the countdown to danger accelerates. Time is running out, and with the threat of another terrorist attack looming, the stakes are higher than ever.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
65 people are currently reading
3416 people want to read
About the author
Traci Hunter Abramson
66 books1,943 followersTraci 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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
August 9, 2025
I was pulled into Hometown Vendetta immediately. I really liked the characters and how they were thrown together to find the people behind a terrorist act. Marine Captain Luke Steele, military aid to the President and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner pose as a couple for Luke's fifteenth high school reunion when photos show his high school's football championship ring on the finger of a suspect in a photo. Suspenseful and action-packed with mystery, great characters, and a satisfying conclusion and resolution with a new relationship make this a great read.
October 2, 2024
Wow! What an exciting start to a brand new series! As with all Traci Hunter Abramson books, I found myself on the edge of my seat from the very start & things didn’t let up until the very end. Take a wounded hero, a savvy FBI agent & combine them with a terrorist group, small town mystery, and second chance romance, and you have a powerful thrill ride.
Marine Captain Luke Steele escaped his home town where he faced relentless bullying as a young man to become a successful military aide working for the President of the United States. When a group of former football players he went to high school with are implicated in a bombing, Luke is asked to return to his hometown for a high school reunion to see if he can find out who might be responsible. The woman posing as his girlfriend is FBI Special Agent Amberlyn McDowell whom he previously met but through a misunderstanding, lost track of.
The FEMA bombing is personal to Amberlyn & though she’s grieving, she’d determined to work with Luke to find the culprits. Once the misunderstanding of their first meeting is resolved, Amberlyn finds an attractive friend in Luke especially with all the time they’re forced to spend together as they go undercover posing as a couple. Their high stakes investigation leads to mystery and danger as they face numerous threats to their lives.
I loved this book! The suspense, romance, and mystery completely drew me in & I was throughly invested in finding out who the suspects were. Luke & Amberlyn were definitely easy to cheer for & I loved seeing their relationship blossom from a misunderstanding to friendship to more. I enjoyed the close proximity & underlying tension. I just wanted to hug Luke, the reluctant hero with all he was able to overcome & Amberlyn who is still grieving her loss.
The mystery definitely kept me guessing. I enjoyed the small town setting with plenty of suspects & motivations. The thrilling ending had me quickly turning the pages as it leads up to a shocking conclusion. I’m so excited for this series & can’t wait to see what’s next for Luke & Amberlyn.
Highly recommend to romantic suspense fans! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
Marine Captain Luke Steele escaped his home town where he faced relentless bullying as a young man to become a successful military aide working for the President of the United States. When a group of former football players he went to high school with are implicated in a bombing, Luke is asked to return to his hometown for a high school reunion to see if he can find out who might be responsible. The woman posing as his girlfriend is FBI Special Agent Amberlyn McDowell whom he previously met but through a misunderstanding, lost track of.
The FEMA bombing is personal to Amberlyn & though she’s grieving, she’d determined to work with Luke to find the culprits. Once the misunderstanding of their first meeting is resolved, Amberlyn finds an attractive friend in Luke especially with all the time they’re forced to spend together as they go undercover posing as a couple. Their high stakes investigation leads to mystery and danger as they face numerous threats to their lives.
I loved this book! The suspense, romance, and mystery completely drew me in & I was throughly invested in finding out who the suspects were. Luke & Amberlyn were definitely easy to cheer for & I loved seeing their relationship blossom from a misunderstanding to friendship to more. I enjoyed the close proximity & underlying tension. I just wanted to hug Luke, the reluctant hero with all he was able to overcome & Amberlyn who is still grieving her loss.
The mystery definitely kept me guessing. I enjoyed the small town setting with plenty of suspects & motivations. The thrilling ending had me quickly turning the pages as it leads up to a shocking conclusion. I’m so excited for this series & can’t wait to see what’s next for Luke & Amberlyn.
Highly recommend to romantic suspense fans! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
September 24, 2024
Hometown Vendetta
A Luke Steele Novel
Traci Hunter Abramson
October 1, 2024
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
A domestic terrorism incident at a FEMA building brings FBI Special Agent Amberlynn Reiner and Marine Captain Luke Steele together in the most unlikely way. They must work together to identify those responsible for the bombing when a class ring is recognized by Luke from a photo during the investigation. Luke, Amberlynn and her team at the FBI are trying to identify all the players on a small-town high school championship football team and what connects those individuals to the bombing. However, time is of the essence, because they believe that a second bomb is to be detonated soon. Together they head off to Luke’s hometown for his 15-year high school reunion.
Abramson has put together a cast of characters that are endearing and familiar. The tidbits of their pasts are dropped in perfectly so that you get more history and connection with each page. Hometown Vendetta is a fast paced and intriguing political thriller. (add in a little clean romance and I say winner winner chicken dinner). Hands down a stay up all-night barn burner. I have no idea how she did it but before I was 1/3 of the way through, I was in love with Luke and Amberlyn and I cannot wait to see where they go next.
A Luke Steele Novel
Traci Hunter Abramson
October 1, 2024
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
A domestic terrorism incident at a FEMA building brings FBI Special Agent Amberlynn Reiner and Marine Captain Luke Steele together in the most unlikely way. They must work together to identify those responsible for the bombing when a class ring is recognized by Luke from a photo during the investigation. Luke, Amberlynn and her team at the FBI are trying to identify all the players on a small-town high school championship football team and what connects those individuals to the bombing. However, time is of the essence, because they believe that a second bomb is to be detonated soon. Together they head off to Luke’s hometown for his 15-year high school reunion.
Abramson has put together a cast of characters that are endearing and familiar. The tidbits of their pasts are dropped in perfectly so that you get more history and connection with each page. Hometown Vendetta is a fast paced and intriguing political thriller. (add in a little clean romance and I say winner winner chicken dinner). Hands down a stay up all-night barn burner. I have no idea how she did it but before I was 1/3 of the way through, I was in love with Luke and Amberlyn and I cannot wait to see where they go next.
September 19, 2024
Luke Steele and Amberlyn have a second chance to get to know each other. If only it was under better circumstances.
Marine Luke has to return to the hometown he has tried to forget and move on from. When evidence from a terrorist attack points to his hometown, he is called in to help.
FBI agent Amberlyn is determined to find the people responsible for the attack and is sent in with Luke to pose as his girlfriend and uncover intel.
Fake relationships are the best for throwing two unlikely characters together, and what’s even better is that it gives these two a second chance to get to know each other. Perhaps their first impressions weren’t an accurate depiction of who they are.
I loved the mystery to figure out. I definitely want to go back and read it again to see if I missed any clues. I loved how the novel pulled me in right from the begging and kept me turning pages. It was the perfect blend of suspense, mystery, and human emotion.
I love that there’s a lot of wit, humor and heart that are the beginning to a great series romance. I can’t wait for the next book!
Traci has written a lot of book series with beloved characters, but this one is all new, and I have a feeling I’m going to become just as attached to this new series and the characters within.
Marine Luke has to return to the hometown he has tried to forget and move on from. When evidence from a terrorist attack points to his hometown, he is called in to help.
FBI agent Amberlyn is determined to find the people responsible for the attack and is sent in with Luke to pose as his girlfriend and uncover intel.
Fake relationships are the best for throwing two unlikely characters together, and what’s even better is that it gives these two a second chance to get to know each other. Perhaps their first impressions weren’t an accurate depiction of who they are.
I loved the mystery to figure out. I definitely want to go back and read it again to see if I missed any clues. I loved how the novel pulled me in right from the begging and kept me turning pages. It was the perfect blend of suspense, mystery, and human emotion.
I love that there’s a lot of wit, humor and heart that are the beginning to a great series romance. I can’t wait for the next book!
Traci has written a lot of book series with beloved characters, but this one is all new, and I have a feeling I’m going to become just as attached to this new series and the characters within.
November 24, 2024
Sadly a miss for me.
September 20, 2024
I was hooked from the very first page!
I'm beyond excited for this new series from Traci Hunter Abramson, and devoured the entire book in one sitting--I couldn't do anything else until I finished and had answers. The emotional rollercoaster had me completely invested, and I can't wait to experience it all over again when the audiobook comes out.
Luke holds a special place in my heart. Watching him return to his hometown to gain more clues, forced to confront the bullying from his past, only made me love him more.
Amberlyn is incredibly strong, navigating a personal tragedy while putting her emotions aside to catch the group responsible and bring them to justice.
Hometown Vendetta is a suspenseful ride that will keep you guessing and on edge the entire time, waiting for the next twist to unfold. With great characters, small-town charm, and a bomb (pun intended) you won't see coming, this is an absolute must-read!
I'm beyond excited for this new series from Traci Hunter Abramson, and devoured the entire book in one sitting--I couldn't do anything else until I finished and had answers. The emotional rollercoaster had me completely invested, and I can't wait to experience it all over again when the audiobook comes out.
Luke holds a special place in my heart. Watching him return to his hometown to gain more clues, forced to confront the bullying from his past, only made me love him more.
Amberlyn is incredibly strong, navigating a personal tragedy while putting her emotions aside to catch the group responsible and bring them to justice.
Hometown Vendetta is a suspenseful ride that will keep you guessing and on edge the entire time, waiting for the next twist to unfold. With great characters, small-town charm, and a bomb (pun intended) you won't see coming, this is an absolute must-read!
November 15, 2024
What a great way to start a series! I give the mystery a 3-4 stars. My only complaint (not that it’s even a real one) was that it was easy to figure out the who and why. The romance was a solid 3.5 stars. Not dramatic, everything meshed and flowed so well between Luke and Amberlynn. Of course we end on a semi-cliffhanger, and with that said - I can’t wait for Luke Steele #2!
Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing for an ARC of this book.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing for an ARC of this book.
October 2, 2024
There’s nothing I love more than a series that hooks me right from the start. This first book in the Luke Steele series left me with a massively pounding heart and an eagerness for more. True to Traci Hunter Abramson style, I was left guessing until the very end and found myself tense and anxious throughout. I wasn’t expecting the romance to thrill me as much as it did.
Luke Steele was bullied through high school and now has a high level government job. Amberlyn Reiner works for the FBI and together, they’re racing against time to discover who is behind some dangerous attacks. The fake relationship with sparks and comfort immediately captured my interest, but it was the real connections and they way these two just worked in all the ways that sold me.
From start to finish, I was blown away. Abramson has spun a brilliantly fine tuned story full of danger, with perfect pacing and vivid characters, and completely took my breath away. I felt like I was living through every page and I can’t wait for more Luke Steele (and I can’t quit saying his full name–there’s just something about it…).
Content: off-page bullying; danger/fighting violence; very mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
Luke Steele was bullied through high school and now has a high level government job. Amberlyn Reiner works for the FBI and together, they’re racing against time to discover who is behind some dangerous attacks. The fake relationship with sparks and comfort immediately captured my interest, but it was the real connections and they way these two just worked in all the ways that sold me.
From start to finish, I was blown away. Abramson has spun a brilliantly fine tuned story full of danger, with perfect pacing and vivid characters, and completely took my breath away. I felt like I was living through every page and I can’t wait for more Luke Steele (and I can’t quit saying his full name–there’s just something about it…).
Content: off-page bullying; danger/fighting violence; very mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
October 4, 2024
Wowsers!!! That was a wild ride!!! I loved it so much! Traci Hunter Abramson has knocked it out of the ballpark AGAIN!!! I love her writing. She's got a lifelong fan in me! I'm so happy that this book is a new series, which means we'll have lots of opportunities to get to see more of Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner! Woohooooo!!!
It was fast-paced and non-stop go from the beginning. Readers are going to love the twists and turns and sleuthing that happens throughout the book. I loved trying to figure out the whodunnit. The author is a pantster writer and she threw lots of possible suspects at us readers. Watch carefully and add up all of those clues. Can you guess whodunnit? Or will you be completely surprised and blown away at the end of the book? I was back and forth several times and then figured it out. Just in the nick of time! ;-)
I will definitely be returning to this book and series. If you're a reader who needs a love story in your books as well, you'll be very happy and satisfied. There's something brewing between these two main characters. They'll pull you in with their goodness, witty banter, smarts and chemistry.
Content: Clean. Some moments of mild peril.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
It was fast-paced and non-stop go from the beginning. Readers are going to love the twists and turns and sleuthing that happens throughout the book. I loved trying to figure out the whodunnit. The author is a pantster writer and she threw lots of possible suspects at us readers. Watch carefully and add up all of those clues. Can you guess whodunnit? Or will you be completely surprised and blown away at the end of the book? I was back and forth several times and then figured it out. Just in the nick of time! ;-)
I will definitely be returning to this book and series. If you're a reader who needs a love story in your books as well, you'll be very happy and satisfied. There's something brewing between these two main characters. They'll pull you in with their goodness, witty banter, smarts and chemistry.
Content: Clean. Some moments of mild peril.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
October 2, 2024
This latest romantic suspense by Abramson is stellar! I loved the dynamic between Luke and Amberlyn, I was pulling for them the entire time. Abramson develops the characters so well that I felt like I knew them. As a reader you come to know Luke and his story really pulls on your heartstrings. He is not your typical male hero and I just loved Luke and all of his pieces. The mystery kept me page turning until the very end and once I reached it I still wanted more! Abramson has created a world that I never wanted to leave and characters that felt like true friends! This first book in the Like Steele series started off with a bang and I cannot wait to read book two! I received a complimentary copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 19, 2024
Marine Luke and FBI agent Amberlyn are tasked to find the instigator and motive behind the bombing of a FEMA building in Kansas City. They travel to Luke’s hometown for Amberlyn to pose as his girlfriend at his 15th High School reunion.
The stakes are high and the danger ramps up as they seek answers. Which of his old schoolmates would pull off such a diabolical plot?
The story was intricate, puzzling and fast-paced. The romance progressed steadily and the clues seem elusive. I like how Luke and Amberlyn worked together seamlessly. I also liked how the older generation of friends banded together to help the community. A scene of workers putting together packs of food to send home with needy grade school kids parallel what we do in our community. I am pleased to be a part of funding that endeavor.
This was a great story of teamwork and smarts to track down a twisted bad guy.
*A complimentary digital copy was provided by Shadow Mountain publishers via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*
The stakes are high and the danger ramps up as they seek answers. Which of his old schoolmates would pull off such a diabolical plot?
The story was intricate, puzzling and fast-paced. The romance progressed steadily and the clues seem elusive. I like how Luke and Amberlyn worked together seamlessly. I also liked how the older generation of friends banded together to help the community. A scene of workers putting together packs of food to send home with needy grade school kids parallel what we do in our community. I am pleased to be a part of funding that endeavor.
This was a great story of teamwork and smarts to track down a twisted bad guy.
*A complimentary digital copy was provided by Shadow Mountain publishers via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*
July 16, 2024
#HometownVendetta #NetGalley
Wow! This new series by Traci Hunter Abramson was so good a page turner. FBI Agent Amberlyn Reiner, teams up with Luke Steele, to track down a bomber. When Luke sees pictures of two potential suspects he recognizes something that sends both Amberlyn and Luke to his hometown to attend his high school reunion. They both try to eliminate suspects and find the bomber before they strike again.
Wow! This new series by Traci Hunter Abramson was so good a page turner. FBI Agent Amberlyn Reiner, teams up with Luke Steele, to track down a bomber. When Luke sees pictures of two potential suspects he recognizes something that sends both Amberlyn and Luke to his hometown to attend his high school reunion. They both try to eliminate suspects and find the bomber before they strike again.
September 18, 2024
Lucky to score a pre-release copy at a recent writer's conference and wow, does she know how to tell a story! Engaging characters and a terrific plot all wrapped up into one thrilling ride. Congrats to Abramson on her upcoming pub date!
September 23, 2024
I was able to get this book early from a book signing. I loved it! Traci writes amazing bad guys-you just want to kick them in the shins. During the course of Luke and Amberlyn’s investigation- you find a lot of twists and turns. This was another awesome read from Traci!
October 1, 2024
~Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner must work together to unravel a deadly conspiracy before time runs out while also navigating their undercover fake relationship that is becoming all too real. But even as the line between fact and fiction in their relationship blurs, the countdown to danger accelerates. Time is quickly running out, and with the threat of another terrorist attack looming, the stakes are even higher than ever…
‘Within the hour, she would tap into her knowledge of human behavior to search for terrorists, murderers, and other criminals who, if not identified and stopped, would likely strike again.’
-Hometown Vendetta, is the first book in a new thrilling suspense series! 🙌🏻If you are a fan of heart-pounding action, great suspense, sweet fake and undercover romance, intriguing mystery, small-town secrets, you need to read this story sooner than later! This story is weaved with such precision to a fast-paced action plot and romantic tension. You will embark on an exciting roller coaster ride of all the emotions. Brace yourself and hold on tight, as you will be thoroughly invested and engaged, with each page you read! Oh what an adventure reading this story is. Really though, it’s the characters that bring this story alive and have you so excited and anxious for more to come in the series, ahead! This thrilling story with heart, is worth the read! 🙌🏻📚💯
“Luke stared down at her. Standing here in the sunlight, a beautiful woman by his side, he could almost pretend she was here because she wanted to be with him, that they were a real couple.”
-Content: mild violence, bullying (mentioned as a past event),mention of terrorist attacks, loss of loved ones.
“Don’t prove yourself to others. Be your best no matter what anyone thinks.”
#hometownvendetta
#traciabramson
#allaboutthebestreads
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
‘Within the hour, she would tap into her knowledge of human behavior to search for terrorists, murderers, and other criminals who, if not identified and stopped, would likely strike again.’
-Hometown Vendetta, is the first book in a new thrilling suspense series! 🙌🏻If you are a fan of heart-pounding action, great suspense, sweet fake and undercover romance, intriguing mystery, small-town secrets, you need to read this story sooner than later! This story is weaved with such precision to a fast-paced action plot and romantic tension. You will embark on an exciting roller coaster ride of all the emotions. Brace yourself and hold on tight, as you will be thoroughly invested and engaged, with each page you read! Oh what an adventure reading this story is. Really though, it’s the characters that bring this story alive and have you so excited and anxious for more to come in the series, ahead! This thrilling story with heart, is worth the read! 🙌🏻📚💯
“Luke stared down at her. Standing here in the sunlight, a beautiful woman by his side, he could almost pretend she was here because she wanted to be with him, that they were a real couple.”
-Content: mild violence, bullying (mentioned as a past event),mention of terrorist attacks, loss of loved ones.
“Don’t prove yourself to others. Be your best no matter what anyone thinks.”
#hometownvendetta
#traciabramson
#allaboutthebestreads
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 24, 2025
This was a fantastic start to the Luke Steele series, and I’m so excited to see what’s next for Luke and Amberlyn!
When a terrorist attack shakes the country, Luke and Amberlyn are thrown together to uncover who’s behind it. Luke, the military aide to the president, and Amberlyn, a behavioral analyst for the FBI, must go undercover as a couple in Luke’s hometown, the suspected origin of the threat. But time is running out as they race to stop another bomb from detonating, putting innocent lives, and possibly their own, at risk.
This story was so unique, especially with the emotional depth of both Luke and Amberlyn’s backstories. I really enjoyed watching their friendship evolve, the romantic tension created with the fake dating trope, and how Luke had to confront painful memories from his past. Their chemistry was undeniable!!!
There were a few slower moments where I found myself waiting for the action to pick back up, but overall, that didn’t take away from my interest in the story’s outcome. I'm definitely continuing with the series and SO excited for book 2 to see where things go for Amberlyn and Luke!
When a terrorist attack shakes the country, Luke and Amberlyn are thrown together to uncover who’s behind it. Luke, the military aide to the president, and Amberlyn, a behavioral analyst for the FBI, must go undercover as a couple in Luke’s hometown, the suspected origin of the threat. But time is running out as they race to stop another bomb from detonating, putting innocent lives, and possibly their own, at risk.
This story was so unique, especially with the emotional depth of both Luke and Amberlyn’s backstories. I really enjoyed watching their friendship evolve, the romantic tension created with the fake dating trope, and how Luke had to confront painful memories from his past. Their chemistry was undeniable!!!
There were a few slower moments where I found myself waiting for the action to pick back up, but overall, that didn’t take away from my interest in the story’s outcome. I'm definitely continuing with the series and SO excited for book 2 to see where things go for Amberlyn and Luke!
October 31, 2025
My rating 3.8
This was a fun thriller by an LDS author who was formerly CIA. I enjoyed the characters and look forward to the next book in the series.
Summary:
Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner must work together to unravel a deadly conspiracy before time runs out while also navigating their undercover fake relationship that is becoming all too real.
When a terrorist attack grips the nation, Luke Steele, a military aide to the president of the United States, is reassigned to track down the suspect because the alleged bomber was spotted wearing a state championship ring from Luke’s hometown. Luke has desperately tried to forget his high school years, but he can’t run from them now. Instead, he must face his most formidable assignment yet: leave his post by the president’s side, return to Pine Falls, Virginia, and face every demon from his childhood—including every person and every thought that told him he wasn’t worth anything.
FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner has spent years tracking domestic terrorism. When she catches a break that could pinpoint the key player in the antigovernment group responsible for dozens of needless deaths, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get the information she seeks—even if it means going undercover as Luke Steele’s plus-one at his high school reunion. Though Amberlyn found Luke arrogant and aloof during their time together at Quantico, it doesn’t take long for her to discover that there’s much more to him than she realized. But even as the line between fact and fiction in their relationship blurs, the countdown to danger accelerates. Time is running out, and with the threat of another terrorist attack looming, the stakes are higher than ever.
Booklist Starred review: "Abramson kicks off her newest series with a bang! Fans of Lynette Eason and Elizabeth Goddard will be delighted to find another author who writes edge-of-your-seat, inspirational, romantic suspense with strong female characters."
This was a fun thriller by an LDS author who was formerly CIA. I enjoyed the characters and look forward to the next book in the series.
Summary:
Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner must work together to unravel a deadly conspiracy before time runs out while also navigating their undercover fake relationship that is becoming all too real.
When a terrorist attack grips the nation, Luke Steele, a military aide to the president of the United States, is reassigned to track down the suspect because the alleged bomber was spotted wearing a state championship ring from Luke’s hometown. Luke has desperately tried to forget his high school years, but he can’t run from them now. Instead, he must face his most formidable assignment yet: leave his post by the president’s side, return to Pine Falls, Virginia, and face every demon from his childhood—including every person and every thought that told him he wasn’t worth anything.
FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner has spent years tracking domestic terrorism. When she catches a break that could pinpoint the key player in the antigovernment group responsible for dozens of needless deaths, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get the information she seeks—even if it means going undercover as Luke Steele’s plus-one at his high school reunion. Though Amberlyn found Luke arrogant and aloof during their time together at Quantico, it doesn’t take long for her to discover that there’s much more to him than she realized. But even as the line between fact and fiction in their relationship blurs, the countdown to danger accelerates. Time is running out, and with the threat of another terrorist attack looming, the stakes are higher than ever.
Booklist Starred review: "Abramson kicks off her newest series with a bang! Fans of Lynette Eason and Elizabeth Goddard will be delighted to find another author who writes edge-of-your-seat, inspirational, romantic suspense with strong female characters."
October 10, 2024
WOW! This book surprised me in so many ways and I just loved it! The action and suspense is non-stop but not over the top. So many suspense books get crazy with the action that it becomes unrealistic but not so with this one! The romance is not the main plot yet realistic and totally works with the storyline. I LOVE the main characters Luke and Amberlyn and we need more stories with them! They get thrown together on a case and it is really fun and also had me on the edge of my seat. There are so many details throughout the story that made this so good. There isn't much that is predictable and it will keep you guessing until the last few chapters. I recommend picking this one up for your next suspense read!
Five stars.
"I received this book from Shadow Mountain Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
Five stars.
"I received this book from Shadow Mountain Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
October 2, 2024
This is a new series by Traci Hunter Abramson. If you're a fan of hers, you can stop reading this review and just buy the book. You'll love it.
The main characters are Amberlyn Reiner, an FBI Special Agent. She recently lost her best friend in a terrorist bombing and is trying to figure out who did it. Luke Steele is a Marine Captain from the hometown of one of the suspected bombers. Together, they go to Pine Falls, VA pretending to be a couple while they track down a suspect.
It took me a couple of chapters to get into this, but by the time Amberlyn and Luke get to Pine Falls, I was hooked. We're introduced to quite a few characters in Pine Falls, and I was suspicious of every single one of them! (Good job, Traci.) There were some I was sure would be the bad guys, and others I was thinking, "Please don't let it be them." The red herrings and suspicions kept me reading until the very end.
I liked the dual POV between Amberlyn and Luke. Their personalities are very different but they seem to balance each other out. I prefer more suspense and less romance in a romantic suspense, and this one hit my personal balance. But if you like it the other way around, I think there's enough sighing, secretive looks, and lip descriptions to keep you happy. Plus I'm sure there will be more of that in future books. I love it when the romance is slow and realistic.
There is violence—punching and shooting, injuries with blood, people die. I mean, terrorists aren't nice. But there's no swearing and G-rated romance. If you like clean romantic suspense, I recommend this to readers 14+. 4.5 stars.
The main characters are Amberlyn Reiner, an FBI Special Agent. She recently lost her best friend in a terrorist bombing and is trying to figure out who did it. Luke Steele is a Marine Captain from the hometown of one of the suspected bombers. Together, they go to Pine Falls, VA pretending to be a couple while they track down a suspect.
It took me a couple of chapters to get into this, but by the time Amberlyn and Luke get to Pine Falls, I was hooked. We're introduced to quite a few characters in Pine Falls, and I was suspicious of every single one of them! (Good job, Traci.) There were some I was sure would be the bad guys, and others I was thinking, "Please don't let it be them." The red herrings and suspicions kept me reading until the very end.
I liked the dual POV between Amberlyn and Luke. Their personalities are very different but they seem to balance each other out. I prefer more suspense and less romance in a romantic suspense, and this one hit my personal balance. But if you like it the other way around, I think there's enough sighing, secretive looks, and lip descriptions to keep you happy. Plus I'm sure there will be more of that in future books. I love it when the romance is slow and realistic.
There is violence—punching and shooting, injuries with blood, people die. I mean, terrorists aren't nice. But there's no swearing and G-rated romance. If you like clean romantic suspense, I recommend this to readers 14+. 4.5 stars.
October 4, 2024
I made the mistake of thinking I would only read a couple of chapters and then go to bed. I couldn't put it down until I finished it! Totally worth the loss of sleep!
I received an ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
October 29, 2025
As a terrorist threat looms, Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner must work together to unravel a deadly conspiracy before times runs out while also navigating their undercover fake relationship that is becoming all too real. This is a well-described FBI procedural from background investigation to active undercover work. Both main CHs, Luke, a military aide to the US President and Amberlyn, are both co-equal in development as the story unfolds, as each 3rd POV take turns giving us their background, inner demons, and step-by-step case particulars. Luke’s VA small hometown Pine Falls and its description of waterfall trails, inns, homes, churches, etc. do much to provide both great Place and the build-up of Tone as they scramble for the facts about a possible bombing. Luke had a lousy high school experience and would rather forget this town and his former classmates, but he notices something that connects his past to this investigation and is teamed with Amberlyn to go undercover. I may read another in this series—the action and procedure is done well, both main CHs are compelling, and the other people in this novel range from caricatures to well-developed from other government and police CHs to small-town bigshots and bullies. Particularly well-drawn is Luke’s former mentor, a local pastor. Themes include deep grief, defining oneself as an adult, and the price and rewards of duty. My main quibble with this book is that the writing seemed a little stilted at times. Dialogue was uneven, ST (Sexual Tension) underplayed—very squeaky clean--so good for those who can stand the violence but not overt sexuality, and, for me, there was too much internal hand-wringing repetition for both main CHs. RED FLAGS: Bombing Violence; Graphic Violence; Bullying; Snakes. Readalikes may be Suzanne Brockmann, for the hotter-burning Romance and FBI action, Lindsay McKenna, and Elle James.
June 28, 2025
Hometown Vendetta by: Traci Hunter Abramson
📖 After a bombing by a domestic terrorist group, the FBI sends Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner undercover to identify the bombers before they strike again.
You'll Find 🔍
- nonstop action
- political thriller
- dual narration
- mystery
- relatable characters
- new series starter
I thought 💬
Amberlyn was incredible! Smart, talented, able to think on her feet, she was practically wonder woman.
Captain Luke Steele- he was the utmost gentleman the entire story. He is a down to earth, humble lead. For a man with his accomplishments, it felt out of character for him to be so resistant to face an old high school bully.
I wanted more backstory on both characters. As a series starter, it definitely made me want to know more.
There is no time for romance in this thriller. While they may have attraction and respect, both leads are busy saving the world the entire novel. Again, lots of room for growth in future books.
I loved ❤️
The opening scene was strong and gripping. I was invested from the beginning.
Characters who pray. It was nice to see both Amberlyn and Luke pray and ask God for help.
The plot- will they stop the terrorists before another bomb explodes? This storyline had me STRESS EATING 🤪
CW: No language, brief kiss
TW: peril, bullying, terrorism, death of a character, gun violence
I look forward to more adventures with these two.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖 After a bombing by a domestic terrorist group, the FBI sends Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner undercover to identify the bombers before they strike again.
You'll Find 🔍
- nonstop action
- political thriller
- dual narration
- mystery
- relatable characters
- new series starter
I thought 💬
Amberlyn was incredible! Smart, talented, able to think on her feet, she was practically wonder woman.
Captain Luke Steele- he was the utmost gentleman the entire story. He is a down to earth, humble lead. For a man with his accomplishments, it felt out of character for him to be so resistant to face an old high school bully.
I wanted more backstory on both characters. As a series starter, it definitely made me want to know more.
There is no time for romance in this thriller. While they may have attraction and respect, both leads are busy saving the world the entire novel. Again, lots of room for growth in future books.
I loved ❤️
The opening scene was strong and gripping. I was invested from the beginning.
Characters who pray. It was nice to see both Amberlyn and Luke pray and ask God for help.
The plot- will they stop the terrorists before another bomb explodes? This storyline had me STRESS EATING 🤪
CW: No language, brief kiss
TW: peril, bullying, terrorism, death of a character, gun violence
I look forward to more adventures with these two.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 19, 2024
Hometown Vendetta has fake dating with well written tension. A mystery that keeps you guessing and puts you on the edge of your seat, and depth of characters that has you immediately invested in their world.
This is going to be the start of a fabulous series.
This is going to be the start of a fabulous series.
December 12, 2024
Another great book by Traci. In fact, i liked the developing love story better than most of her books because it was so gradual and tentative on both sides. Luke's past has shaped him to be such a down to earth, unassuming character, and I love that about him.
October 10, 2024
I loved this book! I was hooked from the beginning and couldn’t stop! I loved the characters and the mystery. Such a great suspense and the romance was just the right amount.
December 29, 2024
Excellent writing! So engaging I couldn’t put it down until I finished. Can’t wait for the next in the series.
April 30, 2025
Eh, it was okay, I guess. Pretty sure it was a sneaky god book. I wanted the priest to be the crook. I'm really not sure if the author was using him as a red herring, or if she was just a sloppy writer. Maybe 2.5? Not terrible. But I'm not going to pick up anything else by her.
September 20, 2025
Really good read. Fast paced and exciting and kept me engaged throughout. Traci writes this thpe of story really well.
January 18, 2025
Love this author. Loved this book. Very genuine characters and thrilling plot development.
October 27, 2024
On a scale between 1-10,how excited was I that one of my favorite authors started a new series? I would rate it a solid 100! Hometown Vendetta is gripping, full of suspense, and moves quickly, and kept me up until 4:00 a.m.
The book introduces Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI agent Amberlyn McDowell. They are working together on a case involving an attack on a Federal building by a group called Forever Freedom. Luke, who works for the U.S. president, finds himself caught up in a situation he didn’t expect.Luke and Amberlyn arrive in Pine Falls, Virginia, where Luke confronts his troubled past with bullies from his youth. While there they gather clues about the attackers while pretending to be a couple. Their fake relationship soon develops into something deeper. Fans of forced-proximity fake dating will enjoy this story. I appreciated how well both characters excelled in their roles and supported each other on the case. Even though Luke is quiet and prefers not to be in the spotlight, he stands firm in his beliefs and fights for what is right.
The last quarter of the book is especially intense. As Luke and Amberlyn sort through clues and narrow down suspects, the action picks up, making your heart race. There’s a constant feeling of urgency as they realize another disaster is looming. Abramson knows how to raise the stakes and keep readers on the edge of their seats. The ending is packed with surprises, making this thrilling story impossible to put down.
I can't wait for the next book in this exciting series because I feel the romance will continue to grow, and I look forward to learning more about Luke and Amberlyn. Hometown Vendetta is an amazing start to a new series.
The book introduces Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI agent Amberlyn McDowell. They are working together on a case involving an attack on a Federal building by a group called Forever Freedom. Luke, who works for the U.S. president, finds himself caught up in a situation he didn’t expect.Luke and Amberlyn arrive in Pine Falls, Virginia, where Luke confronts his troubled past with bullies from his youth. While there they gather clues about the attackers while pretending to be a couple. Their fake relationship soon develops into something deeper. Fans of forced-proximity fake dating will enjoy this story. I appreciated how well both characters excelled in their roles and supported each other on the case. Even though Luke is quiet and prefers not to be in the spotlight, he stands firm in his beliefs and fights for what is right.
The last quarter of the book is especially intense. As Luke and Amberlyn sort through clues and narrow down suspects, the action picks up, making your heart race. There’s a constant feeling of urgency as they realize another disaster is looming. Abramson knows how to raise the stakes and keep readers on the edge of their seats. The ending is packed with surprises, making this thrilling story impossible to put down.
I can't wait for the next book in this exciting series because I feel the romance will continue to grow, and I look forward to learning more about Luke and Amberlyn. Hometown Vendetta is an amazing start to a new series.
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