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Witness Protection
Not yet published
Expected 7 Apr 26In seeking to help an employee charged with drug smuggling, a man in the federal witness protection program is drawn back into the criminal world he thought he'd left behind.
While in his early twenties, Jason Favreau went to work in the accounting department for a company he thought was in the import/export business. He was partly right. It was a front company for a cartel smuggling drugs into the US. Once he becomes aware of the illegal operation, he doesn't quit--he's making a lot of money and participates at various levels. When the cartel is raided, Jason is arrested and agrees to testify for the government. In return, Jason is ultimately placed in the Witness Protection Program, relocated to southeast Georgia, and given the name Jon Tremaine. He goes to work for a large commercial tree farm, and after eighteen years he is the manager of the operation. One of his employees, Pablo Mendez, has a side hustle importing exotic chocolate from his home village in Mexico for sale to high-end restaurants. But when one of his pallets of chocolate is seized at the port of Brunswick, drugs are found, and Pablo is arrested.
Jon helps Pablo hire Kelli Jackson, a former US Attorney in Atlanta who has moved to Brunswick with her two children after a divorce from her unfaithful husband. Kelli takes a job with a law school friend who has a growing practice in Brunswick. Based on her prior criminal law experience, Kelli agrees to represent Pablo. As the case is investigated, it becomes clear to Jon that the drug gang operates much like the group he was part of in Louisiana and Texas. Pablo agrees to cooperate with the government in return for dismissal of charges that will otherwise certainly result in a conviction and separate him from his young family for decades.
Life as a defense lawyer is much different from that of a US Attorney, and Kelli struggles to keep up. But as Pablo's case heats up, so do the dangers for all involved. It will take a great deal of courage and legal knowledge to protect Pablo and bring the criminals to justice.
While in his early twenties, Jason Favreau went to work in the accounting department for a company he thought was in the import/export business. He was partly right. It was a front company for a cartel smuggling drugs into the US. Once he becomes aware of the illegal operation, he doesn't quit--he's making a lot of money and participates at various levels. When the cartel is raided, Jason is arrested and agrees to testify for the government. In return, Jason is ultimately placed in the Witness Protection Program, relocated to southeast Georgia, and given the name Jon Tremaine. He goes to work for a large commercial tree farm, and after eighteen years he is the manager of the operation. One of his employees, Pablo Mendez, has a side hustle importing exotic chocolate from his home village in Mexico for sale to high-end restaurants. But when one of his pallets of chocolate is seized at the port of Brunswick, drugs are found, and Pablo is arrested.
Jon helps Pablo hire Kelli Jackson, a former US Attorney in Atlanta who has moved to Brunswick with her two children after a divorce from her unfaithful husband. Kelli takes a job with a law school friend who has a growing practice in Brunswick. Based on her prior criminal law experience, Kelli agrees to represent Pablo. As the case is investigated, it becomes clear to Jon that the drug gang operates much like the group he was part of in Louisiana and Texas. Pablo agrees to cooperate with the government in return for dismissal of charges that will otherwise certainly result in a conviction and separate him from his young family for decades.
Life as a defense lawyer is much different from that of a US Attorney, and Kelli struggles to keep up. But as Pablo's case heats up, so do the dangers for all involved. It will take a great deal of courage and legal knowledge to protect Pablo and bring the criminals to justice.
- GenresChristian Fiction
464 pages, Paperback
Expected publication April 7, 2026
102 people want to read
About the author
Robert Whitlow
50 books969 followersRobert Whitlow is the best-selling author of legal novels set in the South and winner of the prestigious Christy Award for Contemporary Fiction. A Furman University graduate, Whitlow received his J.D. with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law where he served on the staff of the Georgia Law Review. A practicing attorney, Whitlow and his wife, Kathy, have four children. They make their home in North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 22, 2026
This was my first Robert Whitlow book and not my last. I found the witness protection aspect to be very interesting. The story had suspense and mystery that kept me reading to see what was going to happen next. However, the subplot which consisted of an aunt's prayer life bogged down the story quite a bit. It seemed to be thrown in at random times just when some momentum was picking up. I definitely appreciate faith in books, but to me it was overdone and didn’t flow as well as it could have. If you enjoy suspense books with heavy faith themes —you will enjoy this one!
3.5 rounded up to 4 🌟
Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
3.5 rounded up to 4 🌟
Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 19, 2025
This is the first Robert. Whitlow book I have read and I was quite impressed with his ability to write such a good fiction book.
Kelli is one of the main characters in this book. She is a lawyer working a successful career. She is married with two children, Max and Emma. Her husband files for a divorce and she moves the kids and herself to Brunswick to live with her Aunt Carly. Carly is a sweet Christian lady who is afflicted with severe pain from her arthritis. She accepts them into her home and helps the whole family draw a relationship to the Lord. She is a true prayer warrior. She reminded me of War Room and Aunt Clara! Kelli accepts a job with Ann, a friend who she went to law school with and from the first day she accepts a super hard case. Jon Tremaine contacts Ann to help with his co-worker Cesar, who has been accused of smuggling drugs. Jon knows he is innocent. Cesar was just trying to earn more money to care for his family by bringing chocolate in to the US. He had no clue the drug cartel set him up by importing drugs in his chocolate. Jon and Sarah his wife want to help Cesar, but Jon has his own issues with his past and it looks like his drug days are about to catch up with him. He pays to have Cesar get Kelli's professional lawyer counsel. All the twists and turns that occur during this book and the danger that lurks for Jon, (He is in the witness protection plan), Kelli, her kids, Carly, Cesar, all of the key players is intense. Mr Whitlow had me guessing all through the book what was going to happen to who next. I really enjoyed this book that was an ARC provided by Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. thanks for allowing me to review this good book!
Kelli is one of the main characters in this book. She is a lawyer working a successful career. She is married with two children, Max and Emma. Her husband files for a divorce and she moves the kids and herself to Brunswick to live with her Aunt Carly. Carly is a sweet Christian lady who is afflicted with severe pain from her arthritis. She accepts them into her home and helps the whole family draw a relationship to the Lord. She is a true prayer warrior. She reminded me of War Room and Aunt Clara! Kelli accepts a job with Ann, a friend who she went to law school with and from the first day she accepts a super hard case. Jon Tremaine contacts Ann to help with his co-worker Cesar, who has been accused of smuggling drugs. Jon knows he is innocent. Cesar was just trying to earn more money to care for his family by bringing chocolate in to the US. He had no clue the drug cartel set him up by importing drugs in his chocolate. Jon and Sarah his wife want to help Cesar, but Jon has his own issues with his past and it looks like his drug days are about to catch up with him. He pays to have Cesar get Kelli's professional lawyer counsel. All the twists and turns that occur during this book and the danger that lurks for Jon, (He is in the witness protection plan), Kelli, her kids, Carly, Cesar, all of the key players is intense. Mr Whitlow had me guessing all through the book what was going to happen to who next. I really enjoyed this book that was an ARC provided by Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. thanks for allowing me to review this good book!
January 6, 2026
This was my second Robert Whitlow book, and I can’t wait to read more! There were heavy faith elements in the book, especially with the aunt’s prayer life that I really appreciated. This had the enjoyment of a suspense book with legal elements and was packed with faith and witnessing to non-believers. The story with the drug cartel, character in witness protection, lawyer elements, and the character development could’ve stood on its own as a great book. The faith elements just took it up another notch for me.
I was given a copy of the ebook to read in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a copy of the ebook to read in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Witness Protection by Robert Whitlow is a page-turning suspense. Great character development and plot although slow in developing for me. No predictable conclusion had me turning the pages to discover what it would be.
Releases Apr. 7th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Releases Apr. 7th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In many ways, this is typical Robert Whitlow: a lawyer looking to turn a new leaf moves to a new town and gets pulled into a controversy, while learning more about faith and the faithful. This has a few more twists when an employee of a tree farm gets caught up in a drug smuggling scheme. The tree farm manager gets involved and guides the employee through the legal process, because he’s been through it before though he can’t admit it. In many ways, as with many Whitlow stories, it’s a bit like a Hallmark movie—or how Whitlow has adapted his own novels into movies—where no one gets seriously hurt, prayer works punctually and everyone lives happily ever after.
The characters have moderate development. We learn some about their past but there’s still a lot of holes to explain exactly how they got where they are. How does Jon Tremaine know about tree farming? How does Kelli not know how to better handle the DA and FBI though she worked many years in a prosecutor’s office? What is Carly’s back story that made her so reliant on prayer and allowed her to develop strong friendships with women but no men? Did she work outside the home?
Having moved myself many times as a kid, I did find the kids’ experiences trying to fit into a new school pretty realistic—though none through tantrums demanding to move back to their old home. They quickly accepted the move and looked ahead instead of back. Perhaps Kelli is a great mom, perhaps Carly is just the perfect great-aunt they needed. But a little more “bad days” for some of the characters would have been believable.
If you want a smooth, albeit a bit too long, read taking place in southeast Georgia, this is a good place to hang out for a while.
I’m appreciative of the publisher for providing an advanced copy.
The characters have moderate development. We learn some about their past but there’s still a lot of holes to explain exactly how they got where they are. How does Jon Tremaine know about tree farming? How does Kelli not know how to better handle the DA and FBI though she worked many years in a prosecutor’s office? What is Carly’s back story that made her so reliant on prayer and allowed her to develop strong friendships with women but no men? Did she work outside the home?
Having moved myself many times as a kid, I did find the kids’ experiences trying to fit into a new school pretty realistic—though none through tantrums demanding to move back to their old home. They quickly accepted the move and looked ahead instead of back. Perhaps Kelli is a great mom, perhaps Carly is just the perfect great-aunt they needed. But a little more “bad days” for some of the characters would have been believable.
If you want a smooth, albeit a bit too long, read taking place in southeast Georgia, this is a good place to hang out for a while.
I’m appreciative of the publisher for providing an advanced copy.
October 16, 2025
Jon Tremaine has built a quiet, promising life in Brunswick, Georgia. He manages a large tree farm, is happily married, and eagerly awaits the birth of his baby boy. But Jon harbors a secret—he’s part of the Federal Witness Protection Program. Only his wife Sarah, and a U.S. Marshal, his handler, knows his true identity.
His peaceful life is upended when one of his most trusted employees is arrested on suspicion of smuggling drugs into the country. Convinced the man is being framed by professional traffickers, Jon dives into the case, risking exposure and everything he’s worked to protect.
Meanwhile, Kelli Quinn, a seasoned prosecutor from Atlanta, relocates to Brunswick with her two children to stay temporarily with her Aunt Carly—a woman of deep faith and prayer whose influence brings healing and hope to Kelli’s family. Reeling from a painful divorce and preparing to join a local law firm, Kelli agrees to represent Jon’s employee. As the investigation unfolds, shocking revelations threaten to unravel Jon’s carefully constructed new life.
This novel is packed with twists, turns, and unexpected developments that kept me glued to the pages until the very end. Robert Whitlow once again proves himself a master of suspense and storytelling. Every book I’ve read by him has been a gripping experience—and Witness Protection is no exception.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
His peaceful life is upended when one of his most trusted employees is arrested on suspicion of smuggling drugs into the country. Convinced the man is being framed by professional traffickers, Jon dives into the case, risking exposure and everything he’s worked to protect.
Meanwhile, Kelli Quinn, a seasoned prosecutor from Atlanta, relocates to Brunswick with her two children to stay temporarily with her Aunt Carly—a woman of deep faith and prayer whose influence brings healing and hope to Kelli’s family. Reeling from a painful divorce and preparing to join a local law firm, Kelli agrees to represent Jon’s employee. As the investigation unfolds, shocking revelations threaten to unravel Jon’s carefully constructed new life.
This novel is packed with twists, turns, and unexpected developments that kept me glued to the pages until the very end. Robert Whitlow once again proves himself a master of suspense and storytelling. Every book I’ve read by him has been a gripping experience—and Witness Protection is no exception.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I don’t believe there is a more trusted name in Christian Fiction than Robert Whitlow. Especially when it comes to legal thrillers. It is sad to me that so many haven’t experienced his work because of the title “Christian Fiction”. The man writes incredible stories. Moving. Exciting. A good storyteller is a good storyteller. My introduction to his work was the novel “Jimmy”. That novel made me a fan immediately. Well, I dried my eyes first and then became a fan.
“Witness Protection” has us following two different but connected stories. Kelli Quinn has been rocked by a divorce and leaving her to raise her two children by herself. So she leaves the big life of an Atlanta lawyer to start over in Brunswick, GA.
Our other story is of a man who has worked hard to restart his life. His name isn’t Jon Tremaine, but that is the name he goes by. Why? Because he is in the Federal Witness Protection program. But his identity is at risk when an employee of his is booked on charges of drug smuggling for a drug cartel.
Kelli agrees to defend the employee and the stories become entwined. And a key figure is Kelli’s Aunt Carly. You will fall in love with Carly.
The novel doesn’t always move at a fast pace, but neither does life in Brunswick (I have friends that live there). But each page is soaked with character and depth.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
“Witness Protection” has us following two different but connected stories. Kelli Quinn has been rocked by a divorce and leaving her to raise her two children by herself. So she leaves the big life of an Atlanta lawyer to start over in Brunswick, GA.
Our other story is of a man who has worked hard to restart his life. His name isn’t Jon Tremaine, but that is the name he goes by. Why? Because he is in the Federal Witness Protection program. But his identity is at risk when an employee of his is booked on charges of drug smuggling for a drug cartel.
Kelli agrees to defend the employee and the stories become entwined. And a key figure is Kelli’s Aunt Carly. You will fall in love with Carly.
The novel doesn’t always move at a fast pace, but neither does life in Brunswick (I have friends that live there). But each page is soaked with character and depth.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Witness Protection by Robert Whitlow is an engaging legal thriller wrapped in a Christian fiction framework. The premise (an attorney and her two children relocating to live with her aunt for a supposed fresh start, only to be pulled into a major criminal case) sets up a strong contrast between the hope for safety and the reality of danger.
The legal/crime elements were the most compelling part of the story for me. That aspect of the plot kept my interest and carried the momentum, even though the overall pacing felt slower than expected at times. The writing itself was solid, but occasionally felt clunky, particularly in places where the narrative paused for repeated internal monologues.
As someone who is fairly familiar with Christian fiction (though it’s not my go-to genre), I expected faith elements to be present. While the novel wasn’t overly preachy, some of the Christian themes felt repetitive and unnecessary, especially when they interrupted the flow of the story rather than deepening character development.
The plot was fairly predictable, which took away some of the tension, but it was still a competent and readable story. Overall, this is a decent choice for readers looking for Christian fiction with a legal suspense angle that doesn’t lean too heavily into sermonizing.
Recommended for readers who enjoy Christian fiction and want a crime/legal story that keeps faith present but mostly restrained.
The legal/crime elements were the most compelling part of the story for me. That aspect of the plot kept my interest and carried the momentum, even though the overall pacing felt slower than expected at times. The writing itself was solid, but occasionally felt clunky, particularly in places where the narrative paused for repeated internal monologues.
As someone who is fairly familiar with Christian fiction (though it’s not my go-to genre), I expected faith elements to be present. While the novel wasn’t overly preachy, some of the Christian themes felt repetitive and unnecessary, especially when they interrupted the flow of the story rather than deepening character development.
The plot was fairly predictable, which took away some of the tension, but it was still a competent and readable story. Overall, this is a decent choice for readers looking for Christian fiction with a legal suspense angle that doesn’t lean too heavily into sermonizing.
Recommended for readers who enjoy Christian fiction and want a crime/legal story that keeps faith present but mostly restrained.
October 28, 2025
I wanted to love this one more than I did. The setup pulled me in—a man in witness protection, a sketchy drug case, the constant threat of his old life catching up to him. It should've been nail-biting. Instead, I found myself checking how many pages were left.
Jon Tremaine's new life in Brunswick gets complicated when he tries to help an employee accused of drug smuggling, and attorney Kelli Quinn takes the case while rebuilding her own life after divorce. The bones of a good thriller are here, but the story never quite finds its rhythm. Things move slowly, and the suspense I kept waiting for never really materialized.
What bogged things down most were the subplots involving Kelli's kids, which felt like they existed mainly to showcase Aunt Carly's faith and prayer life. As a believer myself, I appreciate Christian themes in fiction, but this one laid it on thick—so thick that the legal thriller got lost underneath. Prayer scenes and spiritual conversations kept interrupting when I just wanted the story to build some momentum.
It's not a bad book, just not the tense ride I was hoping for. If you're looking for inspirational fiction with some legal drama mixed in, you might enjoy it more than I did.
A big thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Jon Tremaine's new life in Brunswick gets complicated when he tries to help an employee accused of drug smuggling, and attorney Kelli Quinn takes the case while rebuilding her own life after divorce. The bones of a good thriller are here, but the story never quite finds its rhythm. Things move slowly, and the suspense I kept waiting for never really materialized.
What bogged things down most were the subplots involving Kelli's kids, which felt like they existed mainly to showcase Aunt Carly's faith and prayer life. As a believer myself, I appreciate Christian themes in fiction, but this one laid it on thick—so thick that the legal thriller got lost underneath. Prayer scenes and spiritual conversations kept interrupting when I just wanted the story to build some momentum.
It's not a bad book, just not the tense ride I was hoping for. If you're looking for inspirational fiction with some legal drama mixed in, you might enjoy it more than I did.
A big thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 4, 2025
Robert Whitlow is a new to me author and I'm so glad I found his books.
Witness Protection navigates the waters of WITSEC and what might happen if a crime ring shows up within your safety zone. Jon Tremaine is minding his own business and managing a tree farm when one of his trusted employees finds himself caught in a criminal net. Jon has a criminal past but was relocated when he entered the program and has been trying to live right since. Only his wife and his handler know his true identity but Jon in good conscious cannot sit by and watch someone he cares about be convicted of a crime he's sure he didn't commit.
There were times throughout the story I thought "that's going to get him in trouble" and sure enough he found himself in all kinds of trouble.
Kelly Quinn moves to Brunswick from Atlanta to join her BFF's law firm. She's a highly skilled litigator "settling" for the quiet of a small town to allow her more time with her children after a painful divorce. The move allows Kelly to invest in the day to day of her children's lives with the help of her aging aunt Carly.
Carly is my favorite character. She's passionate about Jesus and her relationship with Him. She is fierce.
I enjoyed this story. I am so thankful to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson to discover this author. I will be back for more. All opinions are my own.
Witness Protection navigates the waters of WITSEC and what might happen if a crime ring shows up within your safety zone. Jon Tremaine is minding his own business and managing a tree farm when one of his trusted employees finds himself caught in a criminal net. Jon has a criminal past but was relocated when he entered the program and has been trying to live right since. Only his wife and his handler know his true identity but Jon in good conscious cannot sit by and watch someone he cares about be convicted of a crime he's sure he didn't commit.
There were times throughout the story I thought "that's going to get him in trouble" and sure enough he found himself in all kinds of trouble.
Kelly Quinn moves to Brunswick from Atlanta to join her BFF's law firm. She's a highly skilled litigator "settling" for the quiet of a small town to allow her more time with her children after a painful divorce. The move allows Kelly to invest in the day to day of her children's lives with the help of her aging aunt Carly.
Carly is my favorite character. She's passionate about Jesus and her relationship with Him. She is fierce.
I enjoyed this story. I am so thankful to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson to discover this author. I will be back for more. All opinions are my own.
October 25, 2025
A Powerful Blend of Faith, Suspense, and Redemption: Robert Whitlow delivers again with Witness Protection, a gripping and inspiring legal thriller set in Brunswick, Georgia. Jon Tremaine has built a peaceful new life managing a tree farm, happily married and expecting a child—but he’s hiding a dangerous secret: he’s part of the Federal Witness Protection Program. When one of his trusted employees is accused of drug smuggling, Jon risks everything to uncover the truth and protect the innocent.
Meanwhile, Kelli Quinn, a prosecutor from Atlanta recovering from a painful divorce, moves in with her faith-filled Aunt Carly and takes on the case. As the investigation deepens, shocking revelations threaten to expose Jon’s identity and upend both their lives.
Whitlow weaves faith, suspense, and heartfelt emotion with his signature storytelling. Filled with twists, redemption, and hope, Witness Protection is engaging from start to finish—you won’t want to put it down.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for an advance copy of this book for review consideration. I am voluntarily leaving this review which is my honest, unbiased opinion.
Meanwhile, Kelli Quinn, a prosecutor from Atlanta recovering from a painful divorce, moves in with her faith-filled Aunt Carly and takes on the case. As the investigation deepens, shocking revelations threaten to expose Jon’s identity and upend both their lives.
Whitlow weaves faith, suspense, and heartfelt emotion with his signature storytelling. Filled with twists, redemption, and hope, Witness Protection is engaging from start to finish—you won’t want to put it down.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for an advance copy of this book for review consideration. I am voluntarily leaving this review which is my honest, unbiased opinion.
October 26, 2025
Robert Whitlow's recent novel was full of unexpected twists, turns, and revelations. I appreciated how the tale unfolded through the eyes of Jon Tremaine, the manager of a tree farm and a witness protection program participant, and Kelli Quinn who was a successful attorney in an Atlanta law firm. Following an awful divorce, Quinn relocated to Brunswick to work with her best friend from law school in an attempt to rebuild her life.
Jon seeks Kelli's assistance after one of his loyal employees is falsely accused of a crime. They had no idea what they were getting themselves involved in and how dangerous it could become. This one goes deep. It kept me turning pages. I wasn’t sure how this would end.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
Jon seeks Kelli's assistance after one of his loyal employees is falsely accused of a crime. They had no idea what they were getting themselves involved in and how dangerous it could become. This one goes deep. It kept me turning pages. I wasn’t sure how this would end.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
November 28, 2025
Witness Protection, by Robert Whitlow, is a contemporary Christian legal story that is well written and easy to read. This story grabbed my attention right from the beginning and held it to the very end. Kelli and her two children move in with her aunt following her divorce. She joins a friend's law firm and her first case is for a man that is being used to traffic drugs. His co-worker and friends, Jon, is secretly on the witness protection program for dealing with the same drug cartel years earlier.
This story is so good. It contains suspense and mystery that kept me reading just to find out what was going to happen next. I enjoyed the faith Kelli's aunt has and how it affects Kelli's children. I admire how she is there not only for them but is also a prayer warrior for Jon and his wife. This story is so well written it feels real and deals with current subjects.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my honest review.
This story is so good. It contains suspense and mystery that kept me reading just to find out what was going to happen next. I enjoyed the faith Kelli's aunt has and how it affects Kelli's children. I admire how she is there not only for them but is also a prayer warrior for Jon and his wife. This story is so well written it feels real and deals with current subjects.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my honest review.
November 7, 2025
Robert Whitlow is known for his suspense books that carry a Christian theme. I have been a fan of his books for years, and own quite a few as a reviewer in the early 2000's when ARC's were physical copies of books. That aside, I was excited to dive into a new, fresh book by Whitlow and wanted to love this story as much as I have loved his past books. However, I found that this one seemed to be less a suspense/thriller and more a walk through a thick plot where the subplot (which as thick with Christian overtones regarding prayer and faith - very good things) seemed to misplaced in the midst of the main plot and only seemed to distract from the main storyline/plot. I think it would have been better if the faith elements were worked in amongst the main plot with one of the main characters. Even with this complaint I felt this lived up (for the most part) to the legacy of Whitlow and is worth reading once.
December 1, 2025
I am a big Robert Whitlow fan. He tells such interesting stories. Legal stories are my guilty pleasures! Add to that the fact that he adds some Christianity to his books and I don’t want them to end. This one is going to be one of my new favorites. The characters are real people and they have real problems and issues and aren’t perfect. The book very well written. I will definitely recommend it to anyone who will listen to me. I don’t like giving a book report on the books I read but I will give a little snippet of the story… the main character is Kelli, mom to two, a lawyer, who has moved to a small town to live with her aunt for awhile. Kelli is hoping she and her children will regroup, be able to save some money and decide on their next steps. She’s going to work with a friend from law school. And the adventure begins. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this advance copy for my honest review. Did I mention that I’m a big Robert Whitlow fan?
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Robert Whitlow has been writing lawyer books for a bit now. I have read them all. I love following along with a lawyer to try to figure out what is really happening and how sometimes the bad guys are not who you think they are.
In Witness Protection our lawyer Kelli is new to town because of a messy divorce but also for a new start for her and her two kids. The first case she is handed is of a man who supply of chocolate was used to smuggle drugs. He claims he is innocent, but is he really? That is what Kelli has to figure out.
It is easy to say, yes, he is guilty, throw him in jail and call it good. Whitlow reminds us that we do have to listen to all the facts before making the decision. Sometimes thinking we know is not always right. Maybe that is why I like Whitlow's books; he makes me think about those types of questions.
Nicely most of Whitlow's books are stand alone, start with any of them, but this one is a great place to start.
In Witness Protection our lawyer Kelli is new to town because of a messy divorce but also for a new start for her and her two kids. The first case she is handed is of a man who supply of chocolate was used to smuggle drugs. He claims he is innocent, but is he really? That is what Kelli has to figure out.
It is easy to say, yes, he is guilty, throw him in jail and call it good. Whitlow reminds us that we do have to listen to all the facts before making the decision. Sometimes thinking we know is not always right. Maybe that is why I like Whitlow's books; he makes me think about those types of questions.
Nicely most of Whitlow's books are stand alone, start with any of them, but this one is a great place to start.
November 17, 2025
This read quickly became a page turner for me. I loved that this is a faith based read.
Spiritual warfare is so strong in here, and evil sure is raising its ugly head.
I loved the children, with all the uprooting in their lives, but what a champion they find in Aunt Carly!
This read deals with cartels, witness protection, danger and false charges, but how to get out of them. There are those who are willing to sacrifice almost anything for those they care about, and others that pray for there healing and safety.
Do things all turn out like I want? Well, the page turning did answer my questions, and I'll be looking for more reads by Robert Whitlow!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
Spiritual warfare is so strong in here, and evil sure is raising its ugly head.
I loved the children, with all the uprooting in their lives, but what a champion they find in Aunt Carly!
This read deals with cartels, witness protection, danger and false charges, but how to get out of them. There are those who are willing to sacrifice almost anything for those they care about, and others that pray for there healing and safety.
Do things all turn out like I want? Well, the page turning did answer my questions, and I'll be looking for more reads by Robert Whitlow!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
October 18, 2025
Robert Whitlow delivers again! His stories are always uplifting as well as interesting and educational. In this story, a lawyer and her kids move in with her aunt leaving behind a big law firm and a broken marriage. Her “Prayer Warrior” aunt provides a good landing spot as she soon finds herself defending an innocent man who’s accused of drug smuggling. Integral to the story is the accused’s boss who is in government-provided witness protection. Great plot and great characters and great message! I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and voluntarily provided an honest review.
November 11, 2025
If you love legal suspense, this will be the book for you! I really enjoyed that each of the main characters were deeply involved with their families.
It was so interesting to get a behind the scenes look at the witness protection plan through the eyes of Jon.
It was intriguing as well to think about the influence that the police, FBI, lawyers, etc. have on those who have been arrested.
My favorite character was Carly. I thoroughly enjoyed how, despite her pain. she was constantly interceding for those around her! Her prayer life was one that I aspire for.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
It was so interesting to get a behind the scenes look at the witness protection plan through the eyes of Jon.
It was intriguing as well to think about the influence that the police, FBI, lawyers, etc. have on those who have been arrested.
My favorite character was Carly. I thoroughly enjoyed how, despite her pain. she was constantly interceding for those around her! Her prayer life was one that I aspire for.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
November 15, 2025
Thanks to @netgalley @whitlowriter and @thomasnelson for the ARC
This is the first time that I have read any of this author's works.
It weaves in between the legal and faith worlds.
There was drama and it was in parts fast-paced but in others it felt a little flat especially with some of the characters. Some of the intensity got broken up with the Christianity as ot kind of took over a bit. I thought it was going to be more legally/thriller intense than it was. That being said, I did enjoy it
November 25, 2025
This was the first of many Robert Whitlow books I am reading and I'm so thankful I found this author.
From the very first page, I was drawn into the life of Jon being in WITSEC and living his 'normal' life with his wife. All the while, keeping a huge secret from the ones closest to him. Then enters trouble. Lots of trouble.
I couldn't put this book down from the beginning. The plot kept me turning pages as fast as I could. I actually finished this book in one day. You won't be sorry you read this book!!!
From the very first page, I was drawn into the life of Jon being in WITSEC and living his 'normal' life with his wife. All the while, keeping a huge secret from the ones closest to him. Then enters trouble. Lots of trouble.
I couldn't put this book down from the beginning. The plot kept me turning pages as fast as I could. I actually finished this book in one day. You won't be sorry you read this book!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have loved all of Robert Whitlow's books, and this one is no exception. In fact, I believe this is my favorite one of his so far. This book weaves legal aspects, as well as some mystery and suspense. The characters are very relatable, and I felt like I was living in the story! This book kept me on the edge of my seat, and it turned out differently than I expected. I like the twists and turns along the way. I highly recommend this book!
I received this book from NetGalley through the publisher for my honest opinion.
I received this book from NetGalley through the publisher for my honest opinion.
December 9, 2025
*4 Stars*
Copy kindly received via NetGalley for an honest review.
This was a really interesting read with interesting characters. Kelli certainly was thrown in the deep end, taking on the Cesar Case. Jon and Sarah had a pretty good life but Jon never knew what was around the corner. There were some interesting decisions he had to make. Would recommend.
Copy kindly received via NetGalley for an honest review.
This was a really interesting read with interesting characters. Kelli certainly was thrown in the deep end, taking on the Cesar Case. Jon and Sarah had a pretty good life but Jon never knew what was around the corner. There were some interesting decisions he had to make. Would recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A man in witness protection is sucked back into the world of drugs he really wants to avoid when an employee is charged with smuggling drugs into the country. There is some high stakes situations but the story is a slow boil. The man charged with drug running is being represented by a woman who just moved to town with her 2 children. There is discussions throughout the book of God, trusting him, prayer, and how God speaks to his people. An enjoyable read.
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
November 23, 2025
Legal fiction that will keep you turning the pages with complex characters and a unique plot. High stakes and fast paced. Definitely worth the read. This book was provided by #NetGalley and the author for me to read. Thoughts expressed here are my own opinions.
December 3, 2025
A Christian thriller written for Christians that seems just a little bit too preachy to give it to non-believers. The story about new beginnings and the consequences of our past, risking your life to save others is quite compelling - and strangely there's no new love story in the process.
November 16, 2025
This is an absolute thriller and was hard to put down. Once again Robert Whitlow tells a story with intrigue, mystery, and real life characters. He weaves a tale about Jon Tremaine, who left his former life after testifying against a cartel.
He settles into a comfortable and beautiful life as a tree farm manager with a wife and a baby on the way. The plot twist brings Kelli Jackson, a recently divorced single mother and former US attorney into the picture.
Together they join forces to defend one of Jon’s workers from a legal nightmare. As the story unfolds, they finally discover that they can trust each other to defend Pablo.
I can highly recommend this book without reservation. I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
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