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Jennifer Chastain #2

Lethal Pursuit

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Heather Jensen is simply trying to survive after her husband’s untimely death.
A widow with two young children, Heather struggles to make ends meet. Her husband became involved in some illegal dealings while stationed in Hawaii—or so the military tells her—which means she’s not getting the death benefits she needs to survive. But when she receives a storage unit key for a locker in Hawaii, things go from desperate to dangerous. With nowhere to turn, she enlists the help of her brother’s former best friend, Mark Hawkins.

FBI Special Agent Mark Hawkins is on the trail of counterfeiters.
Money is being laundered through a small secondhand store, Repeat Performance, owned and operated by longtime friend, Heather Jensen. In his gut, he knows that his former best friend, Griff, is responsible for the recent uptick in crime, but as he gathers more evidence, everything points back to Heather and her deceased husband.

When events turn deadly, it’s a race against time.
The storage locker in Hawaii holds evidence that will clear Heather’s husband’s name. But a greater danger awaits them in the exotic paradise of Hawaii. No stranger to dangerous situations, Mark has faced death before. But this time, the danger is personal. Can he protect Heather and her children without losing his heart in the process?

289 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 20, 2024

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12 people want to read

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Jennifer Chastain

6 books160 followers

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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Vickie.
2,272 reviews76 followers
November 15, 2023
The story of young widowed mother Heather Jensen and the danger she is in because of her husband and brother’s nefarious dealings is realistic as well as edgy and believable. The plot is multi-layered with a backstory about Heather’s husband Eli that is methodically revealed. The pace is good, with a lot of action happening constantly around Heather and her children and their friend Mark Hawkins, an FBI agent who is a friend of her brother and also the one who is determined to keep her and the kids safe at all costs. There is deliberate and well-written misdirection which kept me intrigued as I tried unsuccessfully to guess what would happen next. The plot was cleverly woven around the young widow and her desire to be independent and self-sufficient while also having to protect her children and herself from her felonious brother. This is a page-turner that got even more intense when the characters had to travel to Hawaii to meet up with her brother Griff. I liked that the story had some head-spinning twists and a compelling foundation of faith on the parts of all of the main characters. There were many secondary characters who ended up playing major roles and who were all well-developed and believable. The characters of Heather and Mark were rich and complicated and perfect for the story. This book is well-crafted that has a tightly written and engaging plot with a satisfying and heartwarming conclusion.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Profile Image for Marylin.
1,324 reviews43 followers
October 31, 2023
This is the second book in the Targeted for Elimination Series by Jennifer Chastain.
It’s a story where the main character just doesn’t seem to get a break. Her life is literally going up in smoke. Can a long-time friend help her before she loses it all?
From the first page to the last it was full of action and adventure.
The author does an excellent job of telling this story and keeps the reader wanting more.
Jennifer Chastain is an author whose writing style is full and captivating.
One thing I appreciate in her writings is that she weaves lessons of God’s love and grace throughout the story. It’s not forced or fake. I really liked this quote from the book:
“The winds of adversity blow, and we feel like we can’t take anything else. Yet, we do . . . You’re strong. But God is stronger than our storms.”
He really is, and this was comforting to read.
Pick up this book for an adventure that you will never forget.
I was given this book by the author which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I highly recommend you pick it up to read!
Profile Image for Ethelann.
443 reviews
October 29, 2023
Lethal Pursuit was great! Jennifer Chastain's first book in this series was super good, but she's topped this one with great characters and non-stop action. And it has a second chance for love in it too. Which makes it even better. Can't wait for her next one.
Profile Image for Carolyn Bryant.
950 reviews79 followers
November 6, 2023
This second book in the exciting Targeted for Elimination series drew me in from the beginning with action and intrigue and kept me anxiously turning pages to the satisfying ending. I love Heather and Mark individually and as a couple. The slow building development of their sweet romance amidst all the danger and suspense is endearing. I especially appreciate the strong faith thread woven throughout the story with valuable lessons related to trust. Well-crafted characters, a solid storyline, a picturesque setting, and inspirational insights combine to make an enjoyable, entertaining read. NOTE: Although this is the second book in the series and has carry over characters, it can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
55 reviews12 followers
December 14, 2024
Lethal Pursuit by Jennifer Chastain is an exciting, edge of your seat adventure. I loved getting to meet Heather and Mark. I can’t wait to read more of Jennifer’s books.

I was provided a copy of the book from the author/publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy.
2,096 reviews67 followers
November 13, 2023
Heather Jensen is the picture of someone who has everything going against her at one time. Life has not been easy for her and her children lately. Her husband, Eli, was killed in action. The survivor's benefits that she should receive have been stripped from her because Eli has been accused of a crime. Her business is suffering, and she has children she needs to be able to care for. She has a sketchy brother, Griff, who she knows is involved in criminal activities, but she just does not want to accept that he is the same brother she knew and loved. It would be so easy to take the easy road and make quick some quick money, but she knows she must fight this urge. Her faith is suffering the most.

Mark Hawkins has appeared back in her life. He is an FBI agent on the hot trail of a group of counterfeiters. Mark was best friends with Griff growing up. Heather admired him from afar. After all she was the little sister. Those old feelings of a crush bubble back to the surface, but she fights them. Heather is stubborn. Even though Mark has presented evidence that Griff is in over his head with some not so nice people, she does not want to accept it. As things heat up and Heather finds her life in danger, she realizes she will have to lean on Mark and accept that the brother she grew up with is gone.

This was a great story of revived faith and second chance love with plenty of action and intrigue to keep you on the edge of your seat. I really did not like Griff. Griff was ruthless and cared nothing about his sister or anyone else for that matter. Heather was a little bit hard to like at times, but I soon realized she was struggling in many ways, and this affected her personality. She was struggling financially, mentally and her faith had been shattered. She needed to learn to accept help and turn back to her faith. Mark was a sweetheart. He did have a job to do, but he was a strong force in helping Heather see what she needed to see.

Jennifer Chastain knows how to pull the reader into her stories so that you feel her character's emotions while reading them. She also provides that edge of the seat suspense that will keep you up late at night reading this story. You do not want to miss this one.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Jerrie Wright.
140 reviews8 followers
November 29, 2023
Lethal Pursuit follows Heather Jensen, a widowed mother of two, who inherits a storage unit from her husband. She turns to Mark Hawkins an FBI agent and her brother's former best friend for help. Heather hopes to find something valuable in the storage unit that can help with her debts. She finds herself in the crosshairs of a counterfeiting ring. Mark suspects that Heather's brother and husband were involved. He agrees to protect Heather and her children, but he also has to deal with his unresolved feelings for her. Lethal Pursuit by Jennifer Chastain, is a thrilling Christian romantic suspense novel that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The author has written a captivating story with realistic characters. It is fast-paced and a sweet romance. The setting of Hawaii adds to the exotic and adventurous atmosphere of the story. The author also incorporates faith elements in a natural and relevant way, showing how the characters rely on God in the midst of their trials. The romance between Heather and Mark is sweet and believable. They have great chemistry and banter, and they also support and care for each other. I highly recommend this book to fans of clean and wholesome romance, action packed suspense, and inspirational stories. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. I received this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Mark.
2,540 reviews53 followers
November 6, 2023
This is only the second book I have read by this author, but it is definitely another page turner.

Mark and Heather were both great and likable characters - and he definitely had a great name 😀. Mark was introduced in the previous book, and it was cool to have him as one of the main characters in this one. Heather was a bit naïve about her brother, but had her kids' best interests at heart.

Suspense-wise, the book was great. You know who one of the bad guys is, but not everything is revealed til later in the book. And a lot does happen. Including dead bodies showing up.

Jack, the main character from the first book, was back in this one, and he, Mark, and Travis made a great team as they tried to take the bad guys down and get back what was taken by them.

The romance was a slow build, as Mark tried to abide by the "bro-code", not dating the sister of his former friend, even though that former friend was a psycho bad guy. But there was definitely romance.

This was an enjoyable read that had me turning pages as fast as I could tap the Kindle.

Special thanks to the publisher for an advance e-book copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

Profile Image for Maureen Timerman.
3,248 reviews493 followers
October 28, 2023
Jennifer Chastain has done it again, another book that barely lets you catch your breath before something else happens. Sadly, this time a friend of Marks, a childhood friend who has gone down the wrong path.
This friend of Marks is also Heather's brother, and one of the reasons these two never got together, even though there is an attraction. So we are offered some sweet romance, along with a journey to bring justice.
This is a Christian read, and a page turner, as we search for answers, with bullets flying, and a journey from North Carolina to Hawaii.
In the end, we hope this case is wrapped up, but we still have some unanswered questions, and I hope for more visits with these people you will soon care about!
I received this book through the Author, and was not required to give a positive review.
Profile Image for Kara Marks.
473 reviews81 followers
November 6, 2023
This is the first book I’ve read by this author; it looks like this isn’t exactly a part of a series, but there’s a previous book in which the main characters are minor characters in this book. This book grabbed me from the start and was hard to put down. There’s plenty of excitement and suspense, plus a little bit of tentative romance. I like Heather and Mark as main characters and was definitely rooting for them. I loved the faith aspect is the book. I do wish they hadn’t both been so wishy-washy about whether or not they wanted a relationship. I also wasn’t sure how realistic some things were, but that said, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and can definitely recommend it if you like clean romantic suspense. I was provided an arc, but these opinions are my own.
59 reviews1 follower
November 7, 2023
This is the second book I have read by this author, and the second book in a series. I personally like this second book better than the first. I was able to follow the characters a little better and learn more about them. Like the first book, this book is also filled with lots of action and leaves you turning the pages. I think the author does a better job in this second book developing the characters as opposed to being just nonstop action, which was how I felt the first book was. I am excited to see what she does in her next book and how she continues to grow as an author.

I did receive a free complimentary e-book and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jeanette Durkin.
1,630 reviews49 followers
October 31, 2023
Wow! This book is fantastic! The writing instantly drew me in and kept me interested! There's intrigue, a mystery, kidnapping, murder and more! There's also a sweet love story!

Heather is amazing! She's dealing with her husband's death and blackmail. Unfortunately, she finds out that her brother can't be trusted either.
Mark- sigh! He's hunkalicious! Brave, a protector, and someone who makes others feel safe.

The imagery is picturesque! I especially enjoyed "seeing" Hawaii!

I like that there's references to faith in God! The characters pray together and for each other!

I was provided a copy of the book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Laura Bowman.
310 reviews9 followers
October 31, 2023
Lethal Pursuit by Jennifer Chastain is the second book in the Targeted for Elimination series. I’ve only started reading her suspense recently and have really enjoyed them.

Heather Jensen husband was killed while in the military, and left her with two young children. Her brothers former best friend Mark Hawkins, a FBI special agent, is back in town investigating a counterfeit ring.

Heathers life is suddenly in danger with suspicion that her husband was somehow involved with something illegal, possibly the counterfeit ring.

It becomes a race to find out the truth to clear his name and save Heather and her kids.

I received a complimentary copy and have reviewed it voluntarily.
1,079 reviews23 followers
November 10, 2023
The mystery and intrigue start on the first page, and I was pulled into the story. When there's a break in the action, the slow-burn romance between Mark and Heather heats up. This is a clean, wholesome book, so no worries there. I enjoyed the way that author Jennifer Chastain has faith interspersed naturally throughout the book. I enjoyed the setting change to Hawaii. This author is new to me, but I'll definitely be following her and am looking forward to reading more of her books. I would recommend this book to family and friends.
I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this very well-written romantic suspense.
Profile Image for Connie Saunders.
1,858 reviews160 followers
November 15, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! It is a well-written story with likable characters, family drama, and an inspiring faith message woven into its plot. I was kept totally engaged by the constant danger and unanswered questions, and I couldn't wait to learn more about Heather and Mark. Would their tantalizing attraction for each other turn into something more?

Lethal Pursuit is the first book that I've read by Jennifer Chastain but it certainly won't be my last! I recommend it to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense.

I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
Profile Image for Betti.
1,397 reviews38 followers
October 30, 2023
Nonstop action will keep you at the edge of your seat, trying to figure out what Heather’s husband had gotten himself into before he was murdered. Mysterious notes and packages, fire and more are sure to have you wondering if this can possibly end well. Trusting in anyone has become difficult for Heather. But is it wise to leave God out of the equation? His ways are not our ways and He can be trusted. Well written and not to be missed.

An early copy of this book was received through Anaiah Press and BookFunnel. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
Profile Image for Debbie.
293 reviews13 followers
November 2, 2023
This book grabs you from the very first page "Heather read the threatening note again. Return the key." The story focuses on widow Heather Jensen and the mystery that seems to come from her husband, Eli's death and whatever he was involved in. Their friend, Agent Mark Hawk, steps in to help - not only with the danger but with helping her two young kids. If you like action, suspense, a little mystery and romance, this book is for you! You may find yourself reading faster and faster to see what happens next. I received an advance copy from the author but all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Suzie.
Author 3 books9 followers
November 10, 2023
3.5/5 Stars
This is a fun read with lots of romance and enough suspense to satisfy my craving for mystery.

From the first page, I was drawn into Heather's life and connected with her desire to protect her children. Her perseverance in the face of problem after problem, as well as her desire to believe the best of those around her, are inspiring and just a few of the things that make her a wonderful heroine.

Hawk's dedication to protecting others, completing his work with integrity, and tenacity in pursuing justice—plus being tall with muscles—make him a swoon-worthy hero. His care for both Heather and her children make him even more endearing.

Throughout the story, both characters must overcome outside obstacles like betrayal, drug addicts, and counterfeiters, as well as inner obstacles of independence to the point of refusing help and mistaken beliefs about worth, to defeat a dangerous criminal. The story is fast-paced and has several twists and turns. For me, though, there wasn't much suspense about who the criminal was, just what the person was going to do next in his/her quest for power and wealth.
Profile Image for Gina.
2,416 reviews31 followers
November 11, 2023
This is a great suspenseful romance. Heather does not know who to trust. Her brother is threatening her, her deceased husband is accused of selling drugs in the military and her old crush Mark shows up. Mark is investigating Heather's brother and the cartel he is working for. When Heather and her children's lives are in danger, Mark and his friends are the only ones who can help. There are a lot of scary things that happen to Heather and Mark is her anchor. Their feelings for each other are deep. But can they let go of the past to have a future?
Profile Image for Una.
256 reviews24 followers
November 4, 2023
This is the first book of Jennifer Chastain’s I have read; it will not be the last. Although It’s the second book in the Targeted for Elimination Series I think it could be a stand-alone. I love the twist and turns in the story. Faith shown throughout in the times of prayer and the Bible verses the characters mentioned.

I received this book through the Author, and was not required to give a positive review.
66 reviews3 followers
November 16, 2023
If you are looking for an action packed, edge of your seat suspenseful read, then run and pick up this book. This is my first time reading one of Mrs. Chastain’s books, but it sure will not be my last.
Heather has lost her husband Eli, but there is a backstory to his death. Who is the culprit? Who is the next victim? She and Mark are willing to do whatever it takes to find out what really happened to Eli. Obtaining this information may just cost them their lives. Come along during high speed chases, dead bodies showing up, and many threats. Be ready for a thrill ride!
I would love to commend Mrs. Chastain as she weaves the element of faith seen in some of the characters lives. As danger lurks, it is shown who our sole dependence is on.
This page turner will keep you guessing what will happen next as this author clearly shows clear character development and a twisting plot that keeps you coming back for more.
I would highly recommend this book to all lovers of suspense and mystery. I was given an ARC of this book and these are my own opinions.
Profile Image for Diane Higgins.
658 reviews12 followers
November 10, 2023
I loved Jennifer Chastain's book "Lethal Pursuit"! It was full of action and suspense all the way through. I wanted to keep reading to see how it would end. This is the second book in the series, but you can read this one without reading the first one. I haven't read the first one yet! I highly recommend this book. I received this book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. The opinion is my own.
Profile Image for Naomi Shores.
547 reviews9 followers
November 13, 2023
I really enjoyed this story and getting to know Mark's character from the first book better. Heather and Mark are friends and she is recently widowed and finding out her husband wasn't who she thought he was. Throughout the story Mark tries to protect Heather while helping keep her safe from whatever criminal activities her husband was involved with. There is a strong faith element throughout the story along with plenty of action and romance. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Holly Bleggi.
1,382 reviews27 followers
November 13, 2023
This book was a great read. The story grabs you from the first page and keeps you engaged until the end. I loved how the author told the story and I loved how she made us care about the characters. I loved the suspense and how I wanted to know how it ends.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
100 reviews2 followers
November 16, 2023
Do you like suspense? Money laundering? Murder? Mayhem? Hawaii? Romance? God still being sovereign and in control? OK grab a copy of this book today and find out how Hawk knows that Heather and her deceased husband are not in on a money laundering scheme. Find out why, Hawaii of all places, to launder money. How is the laundered money in Providence, NC, where Heather is currently? Who is moving the money? Why? Why Heather of all people to be in the middle?
Will Mark and Heather risk their hearts and get together, even while she is in the center of trouble?
99 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2023
An action-packed book with many twists and turns, some are expected and quite a few are not...so hold on to the edge of your seat! Once you start one of Jennifer Chastain's books, you won't want to put it down until you have read every last word.
Profile Image for Tanna Mullinax.
25 reviews1 follower
October 31, 2023
I loved how Jennifer captured you from the beginning with the storyline! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading and I didn’t want to put it down!!
Profile Image for Virginia Winfield.
2,934 reviews15 followers
November 16, 2023
I loved this story filled with romance, family troubles and lots of thrills. I loved Mark and Heather. I loved all the twists and turns. I loved the danger in the story. I received a copy of the book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
1,781 reviews7 followers
August 29, 2025
A fast paced suspense with a side of romance!

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