Silent Night Standoff: Faith in the Face of Crime – A Christmas Second Chance Inspirational Suspense Romance

First Responders #1

by Susan Sleeman

HOSTAGE SITUATION 

When armed robbers strike her bank, hostage negotiator Skyler Brennan's life is on the line. Rescue comes from the last person she thought she could count on�the ex-boyfriend who chose his job over their relationship. FBI agent Logan Hunter knows how much is resting on this case. The promotion of his dreams…and the safety of the woman he's never been able to forget. But when an unexpected twist in the case pulls Logan in two separate directions, he'll have to make an impossible choice. Will he manage to have it all by Christmas�a career and love�or will he lose them both? 

First Responders: Brave men and women alert and ready for danger and love.

Genres: Romance, Christian Fiction, Christmas, Mystery, Suspense, Love Inspired, Contemporary

223 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2014

About the author

SUSAN SLEEMAN is the bestselling author of over sixty romantic suspense and mystery novels with more than two million books sold. She writes romantic suspense novels that are clean with inspiring messages of faith. Readers love her series for the well-drawn characters and edge-of-your-seat action. She graduated from the FBI and local police citizen academies, so her research is spot-on and her characters are real.

In addition to writing, Susan also hosts The Suspense Zone. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, two special sons-in-law, and four amazing grandsons

Reviews

[DevotedToHope]

Silent Night Standoff begins with a bank robbery, and the whole story feels like the alarm is still ringing somewhere in the background.

Skyler Brennan is a hostage negotiator, yet she becomes one of the people trapped in danger when armed robbers strike her bank. I loved that reversal. She knows how to talk others through fear. She knows how a crisis can turn in a breath. Then suddenly she is inside the fear herself, and the danger is no longer something she is called to manage from the outside.

Susan Sleeman pulls the tension tight right away. The crisis is immediate, and even after the robbery itself shifts, the danger does not politely leave the room. It follows Skyler. It keeps pressing closer. It turns personal.

I really liked Skyler and Logan. Their second-chance story has the kind of pressure that fits suspense so well. Logan Hunter is not only trying to solve the case. He is trying to protect the woman he never forgot while facing the weight of his own choices. His career matters to him, and that creates real tension because Skyler already knows what it feels like when his job comes first.

That made the emotional side of the story work for me. The robbery may begin at the bank, but the standoff reaches the heart. Skyler has to face danger, old hurt, and the question of whether Logan can be trusted when everything is on the line. Logan has to decide what kind of man he is going to be when the choice costs him something…everything.

Whitney Dykhouse’s narration gives this audiobook the right kind of pressure. The hostage scenes never feel noisy, and the quieter moments between Skyler and Logan have room to ache.

The Christian content mattered to me because faith was not sitting safely on the sidelines. Prayer and trust in God belonged right inside the fear, the old hurt, and the choices that could not be made cheaply.

I highly recommend Silent Night Standoff. The title fits because this story is not only about a hostage situation. It is about what fear tries to hold captive, and what faith helps release.

I received a digital ARC of this audiobook book from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and was not compensated in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own and reflect my honest evaluation of the writing, content, and narration.

[Loraine Nunley]

Who was after Skyler and why was Logan the one who needed to protect her? I enjoyed how Skyler had to wrestle with those questions and her hurt feelings that Logan’s sudden appearance brought to the surface. This story was a good mix of suspense and romance. Full review is at my website.

I received this book complimentary in a giveaway. I was not required to give a review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are my own.

[Laura]

Title: SILENT NIGHT STANDOFF
Author: Susan Sleeman
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
November 2014
ISBN: 978-0373446339
Genre: Romantic Suspense

HOSTAGE SITUATION

When armed robbers strike her bank, hostage negotiator Skyler Brennan's life is on the line. Rescue comes from the last person she thought she could count on—the ex-boyfriend who chose his job over their relationship.

FBI agent Logan Hunter knows how much is resting on this case. The promotion of his dreams…and the safety of the woman he's never been able to forget. But when an unexpected twist in the case pulls Logan in two separate directions, he'll have to make an impossible choice.

Will he manage to have it all by Christmas—a career and love—or will he lose them both?

SILENT NIGHT STANDOFF is Ms. Sleeman’s best book yet. I’ve enjoyed all her books so far, but as true with most writers, the books keep getting better. I liked the fact that the “bad guy” wasn’t jumping out from behind sofas, but was more “out in the open” with his attacks. I liked the way Skyler had a whole team plus one who cared for her safety. I hurt for Logan, trying to take care of Skyler and deal with his dad’s rejection at the same time as trying to win over officers in a whole new area while striving to win a coveted promotion in a separate part of the country. I didn’t like the way Skyler reacted to him, but judging by the hurt she felt over his rejection (in the backstory) it was entirely realistic. I hoped that she’d be able to work out her anger and trust issues. I hoped they’d catch the “bad guy”. The whole suspense seemed pretty cut and dried for most of the book, but there was a twist I didn’t see coming. Recommended. Available in ebook and paperback. 224 pages.

[Diane]

I am not usually a big fan of Love Inspired books, but this one was a very pleasant surprise!! Good suspense, characters who are more than just "fluff", and a satisfying resolution to the story. This was a good, engaging, quick read; Susan Sleeman knows how to write inspirational suspense!!!

[Elaine]

What a sweet, inspiring, and scary story!

Skyler is a hostage negotiator. She is part of a full team of people who work and live together in an old firehouse. And they are all very close-knit.
So, when Skyler heads into a bank in the OPENING SCENE, only to be held hostage by the two gunmen inside…along with other customers and employees… well, she is shocked. But, she also realizes that she must act quickly, and calmly, if she wants to live. She knows that this duo is well-known for their bank robberies, with multiple killings along the way…

As teams come together to try to save the hostages, she’s surprised to find her ex, Logan, who was the love of her life at one time, in the lead position… with the FBI.

Mind you, this is only the first of many problems along the way…

As Logan and Skyler work together to find the culprit, they face many challenges along the way… and, thanks to Logan’s experience, and quick reflexes,they remain mostly safe…

But, as time goes on, they realize that Skyler might be in a lot more trouble than they actually think…as the threats keep coming…

I really liked how all the friends looked out for each other and took care of each other like family.
I also liked that God was a part of the equation for Skyler (although it was not pushed, just more of a comfort/warm blanket for her!)
And I appreciated that they brought kids into the picture … and how they wanted to make an impact on their lives as they realized that some of these kids who are underprivileged may not have happy Christmases and holidays otherwise… and they were invested in making sure that they were taken care of!

And, I also loved the ending! Because sometimes it takes risking everything to see what you actually already have!

4 1/2 loving, sacred, friends-to-family, we-have-your-back, scary, traumatic yet wistful stars for me! Happily rounded up to 5! 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫

#SilentNightStandoff (First Responders, book #1 in the series) by @SusanSleeman and narrated beautifully by @WhitneyDykhouse.

*** This has not been released yet! Please look 👀 for it on 5/26/26! ***
Of note: This looks to have been previously published, but the AUDIOBOOK is new!

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and @HarlequinAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
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Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!!

And as always, thanks for reading along with me! 📚⭐️📖🩷

[Nicole]

Silent Night Standoff by Susan Sleeman is the first book in her First Respnders series. This is a love inspired suspense with Faith and second chances. A hostage negotiator and an FBI agent with other first responders trying to keep one of their own from being murdered as she is the target. Thank you to #NetGalley and #Harlequin Audio for this Arc. This is my honest review. Releases May 26, 2026

[Marikate Costello]

This book is action packed from the very first page! And, although it is a “romance” book, the romance aspects of it are not at all overwhelming to the main plot of the book. Overall, this book definitely keeps you interested and on your toes with each page turned. I really liked reading it and definitely recommend it!

[Paula Legate]

Hostage negotiator Skyler Brennan just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. She was at the bank when armed robbers storm the place. The robbers called themselves Bonnie and Clyde. Skylar was able to send her team a message, in hopes they would make a silent approach. No such luck. The situation got tense when the robbers heard the sirens. If things weren’t bad enough, Skylar’s ex-boyfriend, FBI agent Logan Hunter is the one who rescue’s her. I’ve always loved second chance romance stories. This one also has action, and suspense. Skylar had a good team that she worked with. I love teams that always watch out for one another. Working law enforcement, you need people you can count on. She had that in spades. Loved the team work. The person after Skylar came as a shock. Love books where I can’t guess the plot. This book is a keeper.

[Katrina Epperson]

I absolutely love reading Susan Sleeman stories. Her books always bring an underlying theme about faith that anyone can use in any situation. This story revolves around Skyler Brennan and Logan Hunter who have a history that hasn't ended well. Skyler fell in love with Hunter years ago, but he walked out on their relationship so he could fulfill his dreams of making his father proud of his accomplishments. After an intense hostage situation Skyler and Hunter meet again in the line of duty as officers of the law. If Hunter can solve these sting of robberies then he will get a much coveted promotion, but for Skyler it's much more personal since she was one of the hostages. Skyler is disappointed in Hunter because his actions show he's reverted back to the man he was when she first met him years ago. His determination for his father's approval has led him down a path that is far from the path God wants him to walk. As the case heats up the one thing Skyler is certain of is that the heart and brain don't always agree. Logan wants to protect Skyler because she's the one he could never forget. When he sees himself through her eyes he wants to show her that he's the same guy she fell in love with, but his need for the promotion shows otherwise.
A wonderfully written suspenseful romance that brings us strong, well developed characters. The fast paced storyline kept me turning the pages until the end. I would recommend this book to anyone.

[Coralie]

Several months ago, I entered a contest to pick the title of this book on Susan Sleeman's website. Though the title I voted for didn't win, I did receive one of the copies of the book that she gave away. So, firstly, I want to say thankyou to Ms. Sleeman! As a full time college student, I didn't get around to reading the book as soon as I would have liked, but it's finally spring break! I read the book in a day and a half. I couldn't put it down. I love her characters so much. The book is sweet, suspenseful, and endearing. I love a good mystery and I love beautiful characters. I especially enjoyed the tactfulness of the romance. I am pleased at how well-balanced it was with the driving plot. There was more romance in this story than I'm used to, but I thoroughly enjoyed it nonetheless. I would deem the book appropriate even for young teens. There is danger around every corner, but very little violence and nothing graphic. This is the first book I've ever read by Ms. Sleeman, and it certainly will not be the last. I can't wait to read more of the First Responders!!

[Kav]

Exciting start to what looks to be a fantastic new series. I love how the author takes the time to set up the characters who will 'star' in the next books. There's such camaraderie amongst Skyler's squad. Kindred spirits in a self-made family. And take a look at the cover. Wait...isn't that a fire station in the picture? But this is a book about an FBI agent and a deputy sheriff so how does that book cover fit? Perfectly. Uber cool, actually. You'll have to read Silent Night Standoff to find out why.

Taut action and plenty of suspense keep Skyler and Logan on high alert...and conveniently interrupt the rekindling of a past romance. Skyler is still smitten, but she's older and wiser. Logan never stopped loving Skyler but his priorities are all messed up. Stubborn, stubborn man. There's a touching Christmas tie-in that wraps up their love story in perfect holiday fashion. An awesome holiday read!

[Julie Graves]

I love suspense and I love romance, wrap them together and I'm in book heaven! I enjoyed both of the main characters. At first Logan wasn't very likeable because of his drive to impress his father with his career advancements, but as the story unfolded and he began to realize how much Skyler meant to him, he became much more likeable to me. Skyler was definitely more grounded in her faith than Logan, but she had issues as well. Having been ignored by her parents as a child and Logan abandoning her once before she definitely had some trust issues. Add to that a bank robbery, and several threats on Skyler's life SILENT NIGHT STANDOFF definitely satisfied my suspense/romance craving.

[Leisa Wilkins]

I enjoyed Silent Night Standoff, the first book of the First Responders Series. She set the table for the series in a way that engaged me and making me feel right at home with the characters. I enjoyed them all and look forward to reading the next books in the series.

This book began with a deputy, Skylar, who is also a hostage negotiator and part of the first responder team, being in the bank as a robbery takes place. It moves on to a rookie making a mistake, the FBI, Logan her ex, being on site, and grows from there. While there is a lot going on in this book, a robbery, a concussion, intended care ramming's, sniper shots, kidnapping, bombs, potential promotions, past relationship issues, and so much more, it all ties together and comes to an ending I didn't see coming. There's more to this book than solving the bank robbery. Things are not what they seem.

I'm looking forward to getting to know the other members on the team in their books and I'm glad the story doesn't just end here. While this book can be read alone, no cliff hangars, I loved the team and wanted to learn more about them.

This book is also about redemption, motives, drive, and second chances. You get a sense of family between people who are not related but work together and have become a family that care about each other and is there for each other. Subtly the book reminds you of the gift of God's grace, love and acceptance. It makes you confront motives and learning when enough is enough in trying to win acceptance from people. Sometimes there really is nothing we can do to win that acceptance and we have to accept God's acceptance, love, and validation of us. If you don't you'll spend your life making choices for others that may not be the best ones for yourself.

I recommend this book. I think you will enjoy it.

[Stacey]

I have read the First Responders series out of order, but Susan Sleeman does a great job creating a continuous community where you feel like you know the central characters like neighbors no matter which book you pick up first. Skyler and Logan's story is book 1 in the series and doesn't disappoint. Both Skyler and Logan are strong characters with a shared past, and both need to learn not to let their past define their futures. Plenty of action and suspense keeps the story from hitting a lull. My only question was how did the "bad guy" gain entrance to the fire station when everyone else had to use a code to get in; not only once, but twice. Surely the first responders have better security, or at least some security cameras? However, since I love this series and this is the first book in the series, I'll cut the author some slack. So, entertaining story with plenty of action, light faith elements, and romantic tension that the 'happily ever after' readers will enjoy.

[Gail]

Another fast-paced suspense by one of my favorite authors! Silent Night Standoff introduced to Skyler Brennan and ex-boyfriend Logan Hunter team together to solve a series of bank robberies. Skyler and her First Responders team work and live together like a family. Logan is working the case to gain a promotion and finally make his father proud. But Logan and Skyler have history together. Will that interfere in solving the case? I enjoyed the teamwork of the First Responders team and am looking forward to reading more in this series.

[Jan L]

There is a lot of exciting action to go along with the hopeful romance of Logan and Skyler. She is a tough heroine and trying to keep her heart from breaking again is a full time job. I love all the first responder team, the background of how they are more family than just co-workers and their living arrangement in a remodeled firehouse is fun.

[Judine Brey]

I liked that the book revolved around the premise of a hostage negotiator being held hostage and Skylar's former boyfriend Logan as the FBI agent on the case made sense. However, the ending wasn't as well foreshadowed as it might have been and it came to a really close call that didn't seem to be entirely necessary.

[Val]

I really liked it alot! 😊 So much action and suspense and the characters are GREAT! The author used the its right in front of you and you are just not seeing it technique for the bad guy and I thought that was a pretty good idea. 😉 The epilogue was by far my favorite and it makes me eager to read the remaining books and see each "family member" get their HEA. 😍

[Elle Kay]

Another excellent read by Susan Sleeman.

The only negative was the number of times we're told he put his career first. Got it the first few times.

This was a beautiful story of changing priorities and a prodigal coming home to God (and the love of his life). This book doesn't disappoint. Loved it!

[Kathy]

Logan was in the FBI and Sky let working in the Police Force. The? Would the threat on Skylers life change anything, Will this time working together be their first and maybe not their last. They each thought their love for each other would last but Logan gave it all up for a new position. Would this job cause things to change it would or would Logan walk away again.

[Tabitha]

I enjoy Susan Sleemans current books but hadn't read anything older. In reading this book and starting this series I've realized she's always been good at romantic suspense and just keeps getting better. I enjoy the twists and turns and the crazy action at times. Clean but suspenseful and contains violence. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series

[Connie L]

Exceptional, reading, another winner

Fast pace, keeps the reader turning the pages. This one can keep you up at night. The mystery continues and keeps you guessing. A big thanks to the author. And an encouragement to keep writing.

[Zenobia N Jefferson]

Susan Sleeman always has a twist just as you get to the end.

Hunter had to come to an understanding of just where his priorities were. Unfortunately, his father never did learn to love.

[Carolyn Johnson]

Baggage!

Susan Sleeman is a skilled mystery writer who keeps one guessing to the end as to who the perpetrator might be. Intertwined is a second chance love story, where work, rising up the ladder, and hearing well prone by a parent interfers.

[Sandra Webb]

A really good book that was hard to put down. Loved the characters. Plan to read the whole series.

[Brenda C. McAllister]

WOW!!!!!!

This was a really, really good book. A real page turner. I'm really glad that God was a big part of the book.

[Janelle Castillo]

love this book!

[Hunter Q Lee]

An emotional story.

This is an emotional story with adventure, action and uncertainty as Logan and Skyler work through their feelings for each other.

[Sheila]

This is a good book. Its the first of six in a series, First Responders.

[Barbara]

Great mystery