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Signal Fire: A Novel
USA Today bestselling author Melissa F. Miller returns with a gripping new thriller.
Married covert operatives Sasha McCandless-Connelly and Leo Connelly are on their first joint mission for the Lighthouse, a private intelligence agency. Their uncover the truth about Caleb Rye, a rising literary star whose debut thriller described a terrorist attack before it happened.
By day, Rye teaches English at Foggy Bottom Preparatory School, a haven for the children of diplomats and spies. By night, he writes. When his next manuscript predicts another attack, Sasha and Leo's mission becomes urgent.
Digging into Rye's past and his uncanny fiction, they uncover a forty-year-old black operation gone horribly wrong—and a betrayal that points straight back to their own employer.
Signal Fire marks the return of two of Miller's most beloved characters in a high-stakes thriller that explores the cost of moral compromise.
Married covert operatives Sasha McCandless-Connelly and Leo Connelly are on their first joint mission for the Lighthouse, a private intelligence agency. Their uncover the truth about Caleb Rye, a rising literary star whose debut thriller described a terrorist attack before it happened.
By day, Rye teaches English at Foggy Bottom Preparatory School, a haven for the children of diplomats and spies. By night, he writes. When his next manuscript predicts another attack, Sasha and Leo's mission becomes urgent.
Digging into Rye's past and his uncanny fiction, they uncover a forty-year-old black operation gone horribly wrong—and a betrayal that points straight back to their own employer.
Signal Fire marks the return of two of Miller's most beloved characters in a high-stakes thriller that explores the cost of moral compromise.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 17, 2026
About the author
Melissa F. Miller
93 books604 followersMelissa F. Miller is a multi-time USA Today bestselling author of mystery, thriller, suspense, and romance novels. Formerly a complex commercial litigator, Melissa graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in medieval literature and creative writing poetry and earned her JD, cum laude, from the Duquesne University School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the Law Review.
After fifteen years, Melissa traded the practice of law for the art of storytelling, drawing on her legal background and love of research to craft fast-paced, twisty books for readers who believe light drives out darkness, love is brave, and kind is strong. She writes strong, resilient characters who tackle serious (and sometimes dark) issues and themes with heart.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and Novelists, Inc. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending her garden, doing yoga, or drinking coffee. Melissa currently lives outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her family and their rescues—a cat and a beagle. The cat’s in charge.
After fifteen years, Melissa traded the practice of law for the art of storytelling, drawing on her legal background and love of research to craft fast-paced, twisty books for readers who believe light drives out darkness, love is brave, and kind is strong. She writes strong, resilient characters who tackle serious (and sometimes dark) issues and themes with heart.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and Novelists, Inc. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending her garden, doing yoga, or drinking coffee. Melissa currently lives outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her family and their rescues—a cat and a beagle. The cat’s in charge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
April 27, 2026
This book had a really fun concept—a married couple who are secretly spies working together. I loved that dynamic, and seeing them operate as a team gave it that “power couple” energy that made the story stand out.
That said, the execution didn’t fully land for me. The characters felt a bit flat, and there wasn’t much depth or development to really get invested in them.
That said, the execution didn’t fully land for me. The characters felt a bit flat, and there wasn’t much depth or development to really get invested in them.
March 24, 2026
So this is the first true spy thriller I’ve read and I gotta say I was hooked! Trying to follow along and figure out who was behind everything and it kept my on my toes!
It was such an interesting story and the plot? I’m not even sure how to review without spoiling something because it’s just so woven together I’m obsessed.
Sasha and Leo are assigned a case looking into a teacher/author that published a book where an attack followed his book and they need to decide if it was coincidence or if he knew something, so of course they go undercover. I loved it!!
Need a copy on my shelf!
💒 Married Intelligence Operatives
🕵 Spy Thriller
🥸 Espionage
Big thanks to Hambright PR for the ARC!!
It was such an interesting story and the plot? I’m not even sure how to review without spoiling something because it’s just so woven together I’m obsessed.
Sasha and Leo are assigned a case looking into a teacher/author that published a book where an attack followed his book and they need to decide if it was coincidence or if he knew something, so of course they go undercover. I loved it!!
Need a copy on my shelf!
💒 Married Intelligence Operatives
🕵 Spy Thriller
🥸 Espionage
Big thanks to Hambright PR for the ARC!!
May 4, 2026
3.75 This was a fast paced thrill ride. If you enjoy espionage, secret missions and hidden identities. This Americans and The Company this is the vibe. I will be reading more from Ms. Miller.
April 23, 2026
My first Melissa F Miller book and while technically a standalone I now want to find out more about the dynamic duo of Sasha and Leo
This story sees the duo working together on a joint mission to uncover why the author Caleb Rye is able to predict terrorist events before they take place. At less than 200 pages this story is surprisingly layered with a fast paced plot and with tension ramping up as the clock ticks down.
Alongside the action, it digs into some sharp questions around morality and the cost of knowing too much.
This book will land well with readers who like their thrillers sharp, fast, and a little thought-provoking.
It’s a great fit if you:
* Enjoy high-stakes, investigative plots with a ticking clock
* Like clever duos with strong chemistry (Sasha and Leo carry this well)
* Prefer shorter books that still feel layered and complete
* Are drawn to stories that mix action with ethical dilemmas
* Love the idea of “what if someone could predict disaster?”
If you usually go for quick, gripping reads that still give you something to think about after, this is very much your kind of book. Many thanks to HambrightPR and the author for an ARC of this book.
This story sees the duo working together on a joint mission to uncover why the author Caleb Rye is able to predict terrorist events before they take place. At less than 200 pages this story is surprisingly layered with a fast paced plot and with tension ramping up as the clock ticks down.
Alongside the action, it digs into some sharp questions around morality and the cost of knowing too much.
This book will land well with readers who like their thrillers sharp, fast, and a little thought-provoking.
It’s a great fit if you:
* Enjoy high-stakes, investigative plots with a ticking clock
* Like clever duos with strong chemistry (Sasha and Leo carry this well)
* Prefer shorter books that still feel layered and complete
* Are drawn to stories that mix action with ethical dilemmas
* Love the idea of “what if someone could predict disaster?”
If you usually go for quick, gripping reads that still give you something to think about after, this is very much your kind of book. Many thanks to HambrightPR and the author for an ARC of this book.
April 1, 2026
Good Story, but Numerous Edit Errors
Melissa F. Miller is one of my all-time favorite writers. It was her books that helped get me back into reading seven years ago. She's written several series with fabulous characters and exciting and fun stories. Signal Fire is the start of another series but involves characters that are familiar, just in different roles. Sasha, an experienced trial lawyer and partner in a law firm she created, and her husband, Leo, a former agent in numerous federal agencies and current househusband for their home and family, partner up to work together for a federal "shadow agency". Their first mission takes them to Washington, D.C. to find out the connection between a newly published thriller and a terrorist attack that follows the book like a script. The plot is clever and interesting. It's told in Miller's familiar light style. I liked it. The book (the Kindle version) is filled with annoying editing errors. I was quite surprised by this. I'm not sure what caused this, but it seems like an amateurish oversite. Fortunately, Kindle books *can* be fixed. I hope there aren't print versions like this. I hope this is just a glitch and not a sign of other issues.
Melissa F. Miller is one of my all-time favorite writers. It was her books that helped get me back into reading seven years ago. She's written several series with fabulous characters and exciting and fun stories. Signal Fire is the start of another series but involves characters that are familiar, just in different roles. Sasha, an experienced trial lawyer and partner in a law firm she created, and her husband, Leo, a former agent in numerous federal agencies and current househusband for their home and family, partner up to work together for a federal "shadow agency". Their first mission takes them to Washington, D.C. to find out the connection between a newly published thriller and a terrorist attack that follows the book like a script. The plot is clever and interesting. It's told in Miller's familiar light style. I liked it. The book (the Kindle version) is filled with annoying editing errors. I was quite surprised by this. I'm not sure what caused this, but it seems like an amateurish oversite. Fortunately, Kindle books *can* be fixed. I hope there aren't print versions like this. I hope this is just a glitch and not a sign of other issues.
March 29, 2026
Thank you to the author and Hambright PR for the gifted ebook.
Let me start by saying that I wanted to love this book. Based on the blurb, I thought this would be a quick (<300 pages) and enjoyable thriller. Married covert operatives? The potential is definitely there and maybe having read prior books in the series would have made this a more enjoyable read, even though it's advertised as able to be read as a standalone.
Sadly, I found most of the characters and their interactions largely unbelievable beyond the willing suspension of disbelief that is utilized when reading fiction. For example, there is a scene where one of the MCs allows another character (and person of interest) that they only recently met to borrow their SUV for an overnight trip. That same character also texts the MC at 4am to celebrate an accomplishment. This and several other scenarios had me scratching my head thinking, "there's no way that would ever happen."
I believe another round of editing may have benefitted this book. I noted several significant typos that caused me to have to reread portions to determine the intended meaning. There was also a highly implausible timeline issue that I believe could've been an easy fix.
Overall, the pace and plot failed to ramp up to that "can't put it down" thriller level that I crave. However, it may work for those who enjoy a light mystery with low peril/gore.
Let me start by saying that I wanted to love this book. Based on the blurb, I thought this would be a quick (<300 pages) and enjoyable thriller. Married covert operatives? The potential is definitely there and maybe having read prior books in the series would have made this a more enjoyable read, even though it's advertised as able to be read as a standalone.
Sadly, I found most of the characters and their interactions largely unbelievable beyond the willing suspension of disbelief that is utilized when reading fiction. For example, there is a scene where one of the MCs allows another character (and person of interest) that they only recently met to borrow their SUV for an overnight trip. That same character also texts the MC at 4am to celebrate an accomplishment. This and several other scenarios had me scratching my head thinking, "there's no way that would ever happen."
I believe another round of editing may have benefitted this book. I noted several significant typos that caused me to have to reread portions to determine the intended meaning. There was also a highly implausible timeline issue that I believe could've been an easy fix.
Overall, the pace and plot failed to ramp up to that "can't put it down" thriller level that I crave. However, it may work for those who enjoy a light mystery with low peril/gore.
April 4, 2026
This book is a fast-paced spy thriller packed with secrets and twists that keep you hooked until the very end. 🔍✨
Leo and Sasha seem like your typical Pittsburgh couple with cute twins, but they’re actually undercover operatives for an agency called Lighthouse.
The stakes get sky-high when they’re sent to D.C. for a secret mission.
I loved how Leo and Sasha carefully navigate their undercover operation while maintaining their normal family life and keeping their identities hidden.
Things take an unexpected turn when Caleb Rey, a debut novelist and teacher at Foggy Bottom Preparatory School, publishes a thriller whose events start unfolding in real life. Now Leo and Sasha must uncover whether this is just a strange coincidence… or a carefully planned operation. 🤯
The plot is cleverly written, and if you enjoy solving mysteries while reading, you’ll definitely pick up the clues along the way. 🕵️♀️
If you enjoy spy thrillers, secrets, and suspense, this one is worth checking out!
Leo and Sasha seem like your typical Pittsburgh couple with cute twins, but they’re actually undercover operatives for an agency called Lighthouse.
The stakes get sky-high when they’re sent to D.C. for a secret mission.
I loved how Leo and Sasha carefully navigate their undercover operation while maintaining their normal family life and keeping their identities hidden.
Things take an unexpected turn when Caleb Rey, a debut novelist and teacher at Foggy Bottom Preparatory School, publishes a thriller whose events start unfolding in real life. Now Leo and Sasha must uncover whether this is just a strange coincidence… or a carefully planned operation. 🤯
The plot is cleverly written, and if you enjoy solving mysteries while reading, you’ll definitely pick up the clues along the way. 🕵️♀️
If you enjoy spy thrillers, secrets, and suspense, this one is worth checking out!
April 27, 2026
Signal Fire is the first book I’ve read from Melissa F. Miller; how did I not know about this author?
I enjoyed this immensely.
It was easy to read and tightly paced with the story rolling out and the action happening in a way that totally swept me up and along.
Not having read any of the McCandless’ thrillers previously did not have me at a disadvantage, the characters were established well in the narrative and I found the McCandless/Connelly family to be engaging along with those characters unique to this story.
Lots of people keeping secrets in this for various reasons as the events in Caleb’s novels come to life as updated terrorist attacks, and I enjoyed how the author tested the boundaries between loyalty to an institution versus loyalty to the truth.
My enjoyment of this first book makes me keen to go and explore more of Sasha and Leo’s previous adventures. Ms Miller has certainly converted me into a new reader!
I enjoyed this immensely.
It was easy to read and tightly paced with the story rolling out and the action happening in a way that totally swept me up and along.
Not having read any of the McCandless’ thrillers previously did not have me at a disadvantage, the characters were established well in the narrative and I found the McCandless/Connelly family to be engaging along with those characters unique to this story.
Lots of people keeping secrets in this for various reasons as the events in Caleb’s novels come to life as updated terrorist attacks, and I enjoyed how the author tested the boundaries between loyalty to an institution versus loyalty to the truth.
My enjoyment of this first book makes me keen to go and explore more of Sasha and Leo’s previous adventures. Ms Miller has certainly converted me into a new reader!
March 22, 2026
I love this book. It was a long wait but so worth it. Sasha, Leo and Hank start working for a private intelligence corporation. And what a start. Sasha, Leo and family, including Mocha and Java, move to D.C. for an undercover assignment that ends up being way more complicated than it seemed.
The plotline was spectacular. And what a twisty outcome. I cannot wait for the next book. Sasha and Leo work magically together. And they CAN discuss their work with each other openly. What a difference. I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series and it's spin offs.
Although I received an ARC from the author, I had barely started it when I got my purchased copy. Regardless, my review is honest and voluntary.
The plotline was spectacular. And what a twisty outcome. I cannot wait for the next book. Sasha and Leo work magically together. And they CAN discuss their work with each other openly. What a difference. I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series and it's spin offs.
Although I received an ARC from the author, I had barely started it when I got my purchased copy. Regardless, my review is honest and voluntary.
March 26, 2026
This was my first read by this author, and she did not disappoint. I loved it. The story has great plot development and characters that are easy to connect.
I really like the premise of the story, an author whose books predict terrorist attacks before they happen.
That being said, the story moved a little slow for my liking and it leaned more on investigative suspense than it did thriller, I kept wanting and waiting for more more action, however, the writing pulled me in quickly, and I stayed invested because everything felt believable rather than over-dramatic.
Thank you to HambrightPR and the author for a gifted copy. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
I really like the premise of the story, an author whose books predict terrorist attacks before they happen.
That being said, the story moved a little slow for my liking and it leaned more on investigative suspense than it did thriller, I kept wanting and waiting for more more action, however, the writing pulled me in quickly, and I stayed invested because everything felt believable rather than over-dramatic.
Thank you to HambrightPR and the author for a gifted copy. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 20, 2026
Melissa F. Miller delivers another thrilling installment with Signal Fire, and the Connelly family is back in top form! From the very first page, the plot pulls you in with its fast-paced and entertaining twists. The rising tension keeps you glued to the story, eagerly turning pages to see what happens next.
The Connellys are as charming and likable as ever, and their interactions make you genuinely root for them. Miller balances action, suspense, and heartwarming moments beautifully, creating a drama that is as engaging as it is satisfying.
Fans of the series will love this latest entry, and new readers will quickly be hooked. Signal Fire is a must-read for anyone who enjoys thrilling family dramas with characters you can’t help but care about!
The Connellys are as charming and likable as ever, and their interactions make you genuinely root for them. Miller balances action, suspense, and heartwarming moments beautifully, creating a drama that is as engaging as it is satisfying.
Fans of the series will love this latest entry, and new readers will quickly be hooked. Signal Fire is a must-read for anyone who enjoys thrilling family dramas with characters you can’t help but care about!
March 21, 2026
4.5 stars ⭐️ I really enjoyed this and am happy to have received an ARC! It’s fast paced, easy to read, and has really likable protagonists. Sasha and Leo are a very endearing couple and despite the fact that they’re also undercover agents, they still manage to make the book lighthearted with their teamwork. I’d love to read more stories from the families of the children at Foggy Bottom because it is a great concept. My only negative is there was quite a lot of typos, but they were easy for me to overlook because the plot was great 😊
March 22, 2026
Excellent new Sasha and Leo adventure. Working together for Lighthouse has changed their dynamic personally and professionally. I found myself missing Sasha, the lawyer, and the interactions with her fellow lawyers. It was different, but it was still an excellent read, as always. We also got more of the twins in the story, which was enjoyable.
March 21, 2026
4.5⭐️ rounded up
I love a good national security thriller and this was no exception. This book was a quick read - relatively short as well as face paced. I would love a longer more in depth story, but there is good character development within this book. This was my first Melissa F Miller book and I loved it!
Thank you to Hambright PR for the electronic copy. All opinions are my own.
I love a good national security thriller and this was no exception. This book was a quick read - relatively short as well as face paced. I would love a longer more in depth story, but there is good character development within this book. This was my first Melissa F Miller book and I loved it!
Thank you to Hambright PR for the electronic copy. All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2026
This is a great spy thriller that was filled with secrets and espionage.
Leo and Sasha are a married couple who lead a double life. They are actually undercover agents working for a private intelligence agency.They are assigned a case in which they need to discover how a thriller novel written by a new author links to recent real world attacks of a similar nature.
For a short book, the story is fairly complex but the author lays out the narrative and characters quite well. There are many breadcrumbs to solve the mystery if you follow closely. The writing is smart and crisp, keeping the story fluid and engaging.
This is part of the Sasha McCandless series and I’d certainly be interested in reading more.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the electronic ARC to read and review.
Leo and Sasha are a married couple who lead a double life. They are actually undercover agents working for a private intelligence agency.They are assigned a case in which they need to discover how a thriller novel written by a new author links to recent real world attacks of a similar nature.
For a short book, the story is fairly complex but the author lays out the narrative and characters quite well. There are many breadcrumbs to solve the mystery if you follow closely. The writing is smart and crisp, keeping the story fluid and engaging.
This is part of the Sasha McCandless series and I’d certainly be interested in reading more.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the electronic ARC to read and review.
March 21, 2026
That escalated fast
Picked up the book to lightly catch up with my favorite fictional couple and ended up with an entirely unputdownable read .
The story is fast paced, the twists interesting and the characters rich, complicated and real.
Picked up the book to lightly catch up with my favorite fictional couple and ended up with an entirely unputdownable read .
The story is fast paced, the twists interesting and the characters rich, complicated and real.
March 21, 2026
I enjoyed this page-turning read from the first paragraph to the last. Another exciting adventure of Sasha and Leo with lots of entertainment and suspenseful twists and turns. These stories are really great to read and I look forward to the next in this series of this likeable couple.
April 30, 2026
Received this ARC from Hambright PR - this thriller keeps you on edge til the last page, loved this read - thanks for sharing!
March 20, 2026
Exciting new adventure
I enjoyed this book about Sasha and Leo starting a new chapter in their lives. They're able to share and collaborate now since they are partners with Hank in this new endeavor. I'm looking forward to the next book.
I enjoyed this book about Sasha and Leo starting a new chapter in their lives. They're able to share and collaborate now since they are partners with Hank in this new endeavor. I'm looking forward to the next book.
March 25, 2026
Consumed this SO QUICK. Espionage thriller. Boarding school vibes. Quick read. Spies.
May 5, 2026
Thank you Hambright PR for letting me ARC this!!
This was interesting. I was curious to see where this was headed. It felt like a build up to it not really being one sadly. It’s labeled as a mystery/thriller and I just didn’t feel like that’s what it was.
This was interesting. I was curious to see where this was headed. It felt like a build up to it not really being one sadly. It’s labeled as a mystery/thriller and I just didn’t feel like that’s what it was.
May 4, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
What it’s about:
Signal Fire is a high stakes spy thriller that introduces us to Sasha and Connelly (Leo). On the surface, they seem like a typical suburban couple. She’s a lawyer, he’s a history teacher, and they’re raising 11 year old twins. But beneath that “normal” exterior, they work for The Lighthouse, a secretive intelligence organization.
The plot kicks into high gear when they are assigned to investigate Caleb Rye, a debut author whose thriller, Payback, depicts a terror attack on Turkey’s water supply that mirrors a real life event happening exactly as the book is published. Is Caleb a mastermind, a pawn, or just a writer with terrifyingly accurate intuition? With Caleb currently penning a sequel about an attack on U.S. soil, the clock is ticking for Sasha and Connelly to uncover the truth.
My Thoughts:
This was an incredibly fast-paced spy thriller that kept me hooked from the very first chapter. I love the •hidden in plain sight• dynamic of the protagonist couple; balancing the demands of parenthood with international espionage adds a great layer of relatability and tension to the story.
The •life imitating art• trope was handled brilliantly here. Melissa F. Miller does a fantastic job of building suspense. I genuinely couldn’t wait to find out if Caleb was behind the attacks or if there were much bigger, more sinister forces at play behind the scenes.
Why You Should Read It:
🔥Dual Identities: Perfect for fans of stories where ordinary professionals lead extraordinary double lives.
🔥Constant Momentum: The chapters fly by, making it a perfect ✨one more chapter✨, kind of book.
🔥Timely Stakes: The plot involving the water supply feels chillingly plausible and keeps the tension high.
The bottom line… this is a gripping, edge-of-your-seat read that fans of the genre will fly through!
What it’s about:
Signal Fire is a high stakes spy thriller that introduces us to Sasha and Connelly (Leo). On the surface, they seem like a typical suburban couple. She’s a lawyer, he’s a history teacher, and they’re raising 11 year old twins. But beneath that “normal” exterior, they work for The Lighthouse, a secretive intelligence organization.
The plot kicks into high gear when they are assigned to investigate Caleb Rye, a debut author whose thriller, Payback, depicts a terror attack on Turkey’s water supply that mirrors a real life event happening exactly as the book is published. Is Caleb a mastermind, a pawn, or just a writer with terrifyingly accurate intuition? With Caleb currently penning a sequel about an attack on U.S. soil, the clock is ticking for Sasha and Connelly to uncover the truth.
My Thoughts:
This was an incredibly fast-paced spy thriller that kept me hooked from the very first chapter. I love the •hidden in plain sight• dynamic of the protagonist couple; balancing the demands of parenthood with international espionage adds a great layer of relatability and tension to the story.
The •life imitating art• trope was handled brilliantly here. Melissa F. Miller does a fantastic job of building suspense. I genuinely couldn’t wait to find out if Caleb was behind the attacks or if there were much bigger, more sinister forces at play behind the scenes.
Why You Should Read It:
🔥Dual Identities: Perfect for fans of stories where ordinary professionals lead extraordinary double lives.
🔥Constant Momentum: The chapters fly by, making it a perfect ✨one more chapter✨, kind of book.
🔥Timely Stakes: The plot involving the water supply feels chillingly plausible and keeps the tension high.
The bottom line… this is a gripping, edge-of-your-seat read that fans of the genre will fly through!
March 25, 2026
This is the first book by Melissa F. Miller that I've read. Even though I haven't read anything from the Sash McCandless series (this book isn't part of that series but has many of the same characters) I was able to jump right in, no problem. Sasha McCandless-Connelly and Leo Connelly are a married couple that work for a private intelligence company. Their current mission takes them to D.C. to investigate Caleb Rye, a school teacher whose first published book (a thriller called The Payback) is nearly identical to a recent terrorist attack in Turkey.
It has been a long time since I've read an espionage thriller, and I really enjoyed it. The plot has thrilling moments, for sure, but it's not entirely fast paced like some other thrillers. I quite liked that though! The joy of this book is the relationship that Sasha and Leo have, and their collaborative efforts to investigate not only Caleb Rye, but his family and friends. The journey of the investigation was fun because these two make a great team! They're smart, intuitive, and in sync with each other. They're also balancing their mission while raising two kids, and they take both of these jobs seriously.
Another aspect of the book I enjoyed was getting to experience Caleb's point of view. Switching between his point of view and Sasha/Leo's POVs adds additional depth to the book that makes everything come together in the end. I don't want to say too much about him though so I don't spoil anything.
If you enjoy short novels, spy thrillers, betrayal, and undercovering deep government conspiracies then look no further! Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for an ARC of this book.
It has been a long time since I've read an espionage thriller, and I really enjoyed it. The plot has thrilling moments, for sure, but it's not entirely fast paced like some other thrillers. I quite liked that though! The joy of this book is the relationship that Sasha and Leo have, and their collaborative efforts to investigate not only Caleb Rye, but his family and friends. The journey of the investigation was fun because these two make a great team! They're smart, intuitive, and in sync with each other. They're also balancing their mission while raising two kids, and they take both of these jobs seriously.
Another aspect of the book I enjoyed was getting to experience Caleb's point of view. Switching between his point of view and Sasha/Leo's POVs adds additional depth to the book that makes everything come together in the end. I don't want to say too much about him though so I don't spoil anything.
If you enjoy short novels, spy thrillers, betrayal, and undercovering deep government conspiracies then look no further! Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for an ARC of this book.
April 11, 2026
I really enjoyed the multiple POVs (from Sasha, Leo, Caleb, and Linda), which added depth and momentum to the story. This is a fast-paced domestic spy thriller that feels like a “what comes after” version of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, where highly skilled operatives are now balancing marriage, family, and the lingering pull of their dangerous work.
While the domestic angle tempers the level of high-octane action you might expect, the story leans more into sleuthing, covert surveillance, and the careful gathering of information. It’s less about explosive set pieces and more about the quiet, methodical tension of espionage, which gives the plot a different kind of intensity.
Miller’s writing is precise and efficient, especially when it comes to the technical language surrounding intelligence work, the literary world, and the underlying threads of governmental history and communism. Sasha’s legal background and Leo’s expertise in law and history (now part of his teaching cover) add an extra layer of authenticity to their mission.
While the prose is very direct and plot-driven, which keeps the pacing sharp, it does occasionally come at the expense of deeper exposition, particularly when it comes to the agencies and character backstories. That said, there’s just enough detail to stay grounded in the story, while still leaving you wanting more.
One of my favorite aspects was the dynamic between Sasha and Leo. Their relationship feels deeply rooted and genuine, conveyed not through overt displays of affection, but through subtle actions, trust, and understanding. It’s a quiet but powerful portrayal of partnership in the middle of chaos.
While the domestic angle tempers the level of high-octane action you might expect, the story leans more into sleuthing, covert surveillance, and the careful gathering of information. It’s less about explosive set pieces and more about the quiet, methodical tension of espionage, which gives the plot a different kind of intensity.
Miller’s writing is precise and efficient, especially when it comes to the technical language surrounding intelligence work, the literary world, and the underlying threads of governmental history and communism. Sasha’s legal background and Leo’s expertise in law and history (now part of his teaching cover) add an extra layer of authenticity to their mission.
While the prose is very direct and plot-driven, which keeps the pacing sharp, it does occasionally come at the expense of deeper exposition, particularly when it comes to the agencies and character backstories. That said, there’s just enough detail to stay grounded in the story, while still leaving you wanting more.
One of my favorite aspects was the dynamic between Sasha and Leo. Their relationship feels deeply rooted and genuine, conveyed not through overt displays of affection, but through subtle actions, trust, and understanding. It’s a quiet but powerful portrayal of partnership in the middle of chaos.
April 3, 2026
This was such a gripping, fast-paced read. I went into this expecting a thriller, but the whole espionage/married operatives angle made it feel way more layered than I thought it would be. It’s not just action for the sake of it there’s a lot going on beneath the surface with trust, loyalty, and everything that comes with living that kind of life.
What I really liked is how tense everything feels. There’s always something just under the surface, like things could shift at any moment, and it kept me on edge the whole time. The stakes feel real, and you can tell the characters aren’t just dealing with external threats, but also what it’s doing to them personally.
The pacing was strong too. It moves quickly, but not in a way that feels rushed more like you’re constantly being pulled into the next thing without even realising how far you’ve read. I also appreciated that it wasn’t just plot-heavy. There’s emotion there as well, which made it easier to stay invested in what was happening rather than just watching it all unfold. It’s tense, smart, and really easy to get caught up in. I ended up flying through it.
Thank you to Hambright PR and the Author for a copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What I really liked is how tense everything feels. There’s always something just under the surface, like things could shift at any moment, and it kept me on edge the whole time. The stakes feel real, and you can tell the characters aren’t just dealing with external threats, but also what it’s doing to them personally.
The pacing was strong too. It moves quickly, but not in a way that feels rushed more like you’re constantly being pulled into the next thing without even realising how far you’ve read. I also appreciated that it wasn’t just plot-heavy. There’s emotion there as well, which made it easier to stay invested in what was happening rather than just watching it all unfold. It’s tense, smart, and really easy to get caught up in. I ended up flying through it.
Thank you to Hambright PR and the Author for a copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 12, 2026
Signal Fire by Melissa Miller had a lot of potential, and while I did enjoy parts of it, it didn’t fully pull me in the way I hoped it would. Thank you to Hambright for providing me with access to this book. All opinions are mine. Let’s get into the book. The pacing was solid, and there were definitely some surprising moments and scenes that I genuinely liked. Those twists helped keep me turning the pages and wanting to see how everything would unfold. That said, a few scenes felt unrealistic enough that they pulled me out of the story, which made it harder to stay fully immersed. I also found myself struggling to connect with the characters. After finishing, I realized some of them appear in another series by the author—which makes sense, because their introductions here felt a bit thin. I’m guessing readers familiar with those books may have a stronger connection, but coming into this one fresh, I didn’t feel like I got a deep enough understanding of who they were. Because of that, I never felt fully invested, even though the story itself had some strong moments. Overall, this was a solid read with good pacing and a few standout scenes, but I think it might work better for readers who are already familiar with these characters and Melissa Miller’s wider world.
April 12, 2026
First time reading this author and I’m honestly impressed. The premise immediately hooked me—an author whose books seem to predict terrorist attacks before they happen is such a clever, eerie concept, and it definitely delivers on that intrigue.
For a shorter book, it packs in a surprising amount of complexity. There are multiple layers to the story, but it never feels overwhelming because the author does a great job of guiding you through the narrative. The characters are introduced with just enough depth to keep you invested, and the pacing keeps everything moving without losing clarity.
What I really enjoyed were the subtle clues sprinkled throughout. If you’re paying attention, there are plenty of breadcrumbs to follow, making it feel interactive in a way—like you’re piecing the mystery together alongside the story.
I was thoroughly impressed with the writing - it's sharp, polished, and incredibly engaging. The narrative flows effortlessly, making for a quick yet impactful read. This author has definitely earned a spot on my radar, and I'm eager to explore more of their work.
For a shorter book, it packs in a surprising amount of complexity. There are multiple layers to the story, but it never feels overwhelming because the author does a great job of guiding you through the narrative. The characters are introduced with just enough depth to keep you invested, and the pacing keeps everything moving without losing clarity.
What I really enjoyed were the subtle clues sprinkled throughout. If you’re paying attention, there are plenty of breadcrumbs to follow, making it feel interactive in a way—like you’re piecing the mystery together alongside the story.
I was thoroughly impressed with the writing - it's sharp, polished, and incredibly engaging. The narrative flows effortlessly, making for a quick yet impactful read. This author has definitely earned a spot on my radar, and I'm eager to explore more of their work.
April 1, 2026
This story is around 3.25 stars for me. I think this one had no issues with pulling me in and keeping my interest, but there just was some things that missed for me.
This one is considered a mystery thriller with spies, and their twins.
I will say this was my first book by this author and it held my attention, along with had some great moments.
I do think I would have enjoyed the characters more if I had read the other books first. I didn't really feel any connection with them and I feel like that is because they are probably well fleshed out throughout the other books in the series, but I appreciated the way they are portrayed. They are very loving, smart, and are great parents it seems.
Overall, I feel like I missed the connection with the characters and the reveal I guessed early on in the story. It was fun to follow their adventure though, and I did appreciate Sasha and Connelly's relationship, they were cute together!
Thank you HambrightPR for my e-arc in return for my honest review!
This one is considered a mystery thriller with spies, and their twins.
I will say this was my first book by this author and it held my attention, along with had some great moments.
I do think I would have enjoyed the characters more if I had read the other books first. I didn't really feel any connection with them and I feel like that is because they are probably well fleshed out throughout the other books in the series, but I appreciated the way they are portrayed. They are very loving, smart, and are great parents it seems.
Overall, I feel like I missed the connection with the characters and the reveal I guessed early on in the story. It was fun to follow their adventure though, and I did appreciate Sasha and Connelly's relationship, they were cute together!
Thank you HambrightPR for my e-arc in return for my honest review!
April 3, 2026
⭐️ 4/5
Signal Fire was an engaging thriller romance that delivered both suspense and strong character dynamics in a shorter format.
The story follows Sasha and Leo, a married couple working as covert operatives on their first joint mission. Their use of their family as part of their cover added an interesting layer and immediately pulled me into the story.
One of the standout elements was their chemistry. Seeing an established relationship rather than one just forming brought a different dynamic, especially as they worked together under pressure.
The pacing also worked really well. As a shorter novel, it was packed with enough suspense and intrigue to keep me engaged without feeling overwhelming.
This was also my first time reading a thriller, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It felt like a great introduction to the genre, balancing suspense and connection in a way that made it easy to follow while still keeping me invested.
Overall, this was a fast-paced and enjoyable read that kept me curious about what would happen next.
Signal Fire was an engaging thriller romance that delivered both suspense and strong character dynamics in a shorter format.
The story follows Sasha and Leo, a married couple working as covert operatives on their first joint mission. Their use of their family as part of their cover added an interesting layer and immediately pulled me into the story.
One of the standout elements was their chemistry. Seeing an established relationship rather than one just forming brought a different dynamic, especially as they worked together under pressure.
The pacing also worked really well. As a shorter novel, it was packed with enough suspense and intrigue to keep me engaged without feeling overwhelming.
This was also my first time reading a thriller, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It felt like a great introduction to the genre, balancing suspense and connection in a way that made it easy to follow while still keeping me invested.
Overall, this was a fast-paced and enjoyable read that kept me curious about what would happen next.
April 9, 2026
When it comes to Spy Thrillers or Intelligence Operative Thrillers Melissa F Miller writes the best! I first read a book from this author that was part of the Sasha McCandless series and really loved the FMC in that one Sasha! So when I seen this one followed Sasha, Leo and Hank I knew I had to read this one!
This one is packed full of action, secrets, and adventure! The pacing in this one is super fast and the plot is solid all the way through! I really loved the fact that we got to see Sasha & Leo’s family dynamic in this one! It really added a whole unique element to the whole story.
And of course we got to experience the mysteries and how things were all woven together. Melissa does an excellent job at leaving nothing unresolved in these books and honestly I love that! You get a solid engaging plot and at the end all the mystery is revealed!
This book was such a fun read and if you are like me and you love watching or reading spy thrillers/ Intelligence Operatives then you definitely need to read this one! And I truly think you could read this one as a standalone!
This one is packed full of action, secrets, and adventure! The pacing in this one is super fast and the plot is solid all the way through! I really loved the fact that we got to see Sasha & Leo’s family dynamic in this one! It really added a whole unique element to the whole story.
And of course we got to experience the mysteries and how things were all woven together. Melissa does an excellent job at leaving nothing unresolved in these books and honestly I love that! You get a solid engaging plot and at the end all the mystery is revealed!
This book was such a fun read and if you are like me and you love watching or reading spy thrillers/ Intelligence Operatives then you definitely need to read this one! And I truly think you could read this one as a standalone!
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