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First Responders #5
Silent Sabotage
A HIDDEN ENEMY
Emily Graves left everything behind to save her aunt's struggling bed-and-breakfast, but she's hardly through the door before she's the one who needs saving. Someone in Bridal Veil, Oregon, will go to any lengths—even murder—to keep her from making the B and B a success. Sheriff's deputy Archer Reed has made it his personal mission to bring down the culprit. But first he has to convince Emily to accept his protection…and determine why anyone would want to harm her. As Emily's unknown enemy becomes increasingly violent, Archer may be the only person who can keep her alive.
Emily Graves left everything behind to save her aunt's struggling bed-and-breakfast, but she's hardly through the door before she's the one who needs saving. Someone in Bridal Veil, Oregon, will go to any lengths—even murder—to keep her from making the B and B a success. Sheriff's deputy Archer Reed has made it his personal mission to bring down the culprit. But first he has to convince Emily to accept his protection…and determine why anyone would want to harm her. As Emily's unknown enemy becomes increasingly violent, Archer may be the only person who can keep her alive.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 1, 2016
127 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
About the author
Susan Sleeman
131 books810 followersSUSAN 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
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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
July 14, 2016
Ooooeeeeeeeee, but I really love this series. This is the fifth book but reads fine as a standalone. However, one of the real charms of these books is how the author manages to include the First Responder gang in each story. There's such great camaraderie between them. Love all the teasing but they have a serious side too and they'll drop anything to help when one of their own is in trouble. What a great backdrop for romantic suspense. And speaking of that -- what a gnarly mess Emily and Archer find themselves in the middle of. The heart-stopping opening scene promises action and angst aplenty and Sleeman delivers on all accounts. Both in the suspense and the romance department. And there's a touching inspirational thread about following God's leading. Highly recommend the whole series.
August 5, 2016
Susan Sleeman has done it again!
Silent Sabotage book reviewSilent Sabotage, the latest book in her stellar First Responders series, starts out with a scream and a shooting spree and a hostage situation complete with a bomb vest. That’s like… all in the first few pages. And in typical Susan Sleeman style, the action and the tension don’t let up until nearly the very end. I always feel a bit sorry for her characters when I start one of Susan’s books because, while I know I personally am getting ready for a delightfully suspenseful read, they are getting ready for a pretty nightmarish few days in their fictional lives. lol.
But they also get to fall in love along the way which both raises the tension and softens it. With Susan Sleeman at the helm, the romantic tension blends almost seamlessly with the high-stakes suspense until your pulse just constantly races and you realize you keep forgetting to breathe. From the chemistry-induced sizzle to the heart-pounding drama, it’s probably advisable NOT to get your blood pressure checked while reading one of her books. LOL. “Umm… I’m really okay, Doctor. I promise. See, it’s this book…”
Archer has always intrigued me among the First Response team members, so I have been really looking forward to his story. I am happy to say Silent Sabotage did not in any way disappoint! Getting to know him a bit better and watching him fall for Emily is quite enjoyable. Particularly as those uber-protective and tender instincts kick in! *fans wildly*
Oh – and Archer and I? Kindred spirits on our dislike/fear of chickens. LOL
Bottom Line: Outstanding suspense will keep you on your toes from word one, and the high-stakes action will keep you glued to the pages of Silent Sabotage. The delicious romantic subplot weaves through the story, adding to the tension in all the best ways. Susan Sleeman also does a fantastic job incorporating the characters’ faith in a way that is natural and not at all preachy, making this a book (and series) that can appeal to fans of Christian fiction as well as general market fiction. There’s only one more story to go in the First Responders series (wail!) and while I’m not looking forward to saying goodbye to this great team of characters I am eager to see what Susan has up her sleeve next!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
See my full review on Reading Is My SuperPower
Silent Sabotage book reviewSilent Sabotage, the latest book in her stellar First Responders series, starts out with a scream and a shooting spree and a hostage situation complete with a bomb vest. That’s like… all in the first few pages. And in typical Susan Sleeman style, the action and the tension don’t let up until nearly the very end. I always feel a bit sorry for her characters when I start one of Susan’s books because, while I know I personally am getting ready for a delightfully suspenseful read, they are getting ready for a pretty nightmarish few days in their fictional lives. lol.
But they also get to fall in love along the way which both raises the tension and softens it. With Susan Sleeman at the helm, the romantic tension blends almost seamlessly with the high-stakes suspense until your pulse just constantly races and you realize you keep forgetting to breathe. From the chemistry-induced sizzle to the heart-pounding drama, it’s probably advisable NOT to get your blood pressure checked while reading one of her books. LOL. “Umm… I’m really okay, Doctor. I promise. See, it’s this book…”
Archer has always intrigued me among the First Response team members, so I have been really looking forward to his story. I am happy to say Silent Sabotage did not in any way disappoint! Getting to know him a bit better and watching him fall for Emily is quite enjoyable. Particularly as those uber-protective and tender instincts kick in! *fans wildly*
Oh – and Archer and I? Kindred spirits on our dislike/fear of chickens. LOL
Bottom Line: Outstanding suspense will keep you on your toes from word one, and the high-stakes action will keep you glued to the pages of Silent Sabotage. The delicious romantic subplot weaves through the story, adding to the tension in all the best ways. Susan Sleeman also does a fantastic job incorporating the characters’ faith in a way that is natural and not at all preachy, making this a book (and series) that can appeal to fans of Christian fiction as well as general market fiction. There’s only one more story to go in the First Responders series (wail!) and while I’m not looking forward to saying goodbye to this great team of characters I am eager to see what Susan has up her sleeve next!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
See my full review on Reading Is My SuperPower
December 5, 2016
3.5 stars
Most of it was four stars, but the reveal was a bit flaky for me.
I liked the main characters, especially Birdie, and have an interest in old homes and bed and breakfasts, so that added to my enjoyment.
Most of it was four stars, but the reveal was a bit flaky for me.
I liked the main characters, especially Birdie, and have an interest in old homes and bed and breakfasts, so that added to my enjoyment.
August 29, 2016
This story starts off with a bang—literally! Emily Graves finds herself the victim of a hostage situation, a bomb vest being strapped on to her and desperate negotiations from Deputy Archer Reed—who just happens to be in the right place at the right time. If that doesn’t whet your appetite for a great suspense, I don’t know what will!
This story quickly moved me along, always trying to figure out who’s after Emily; and just when I think I got it, the author throws in another twist to make me question my judgment! I liked Emily’s character; strong and independent, determined to do things her way, and relies on no one. Archer is the perfect hero material; a calm presence in tense times, willing to protect with his life, takes his job seriously & has hints of being sensitive without losing his manliness. As for the faith theme, the author does a fantastic job of reminding us that God has ultimate control of our lives and we can fully rely on Him in all situations. I loved that both characters were people of God and it showed in everything they did or said. The suspense was just the right pace for me & the romance developed naturally. And oh, how I loved seeing these two fall in love! They both had past issues with not so perfect parents, which jaded their idea of a relationship; but with the trust of God on their side, they learned what true love meant. When they finally surrendered to that, it made me smile! The ending of this book took me by surprise and came from a source I never suspected; but maybe that was the authors intent—as it should be in a suspense novel!
Here’s a quote from the author in the readers note in the back of the book. It touched me and I hope it will you too!
“So if you struggle with letting God take charge, I hope you’ll remember Archer and Emily’s story, where they learn that it’s only in turning over their lives to God that they find His peace. “
*I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for my honest review, which I’ve provided here. Thank you Susan for the kind of suspenseful love story I enjoy! I look forward to many more by you! *
This book is part of the First Responders series by Susan and you can find more on her website: http://www.susansleeman.com/books/fir...
This story quickly moved me along, always trying to figure out who’s after Emily; and just when I think I got it, the author throws in another twist to make me question my judgment! I liked Emily’s character; strong and independent, determined to do things her way, and relies on no one. Archer is the perfect hero material; a calm presence in tense times, willing to protect with his life, takes his job seriously & has hints of being sensitive without losing his manliness. As for the faith theme, the author does a fantastic job of reminding us that God has ultimate control of our lives and we can fully rely on Him in all situations. I loved that both characters were people of God and it showed in everything they did or said. The suspense was just the right pace for me & the romance developed naturally. And oh, how I loved seeing these two fall in love! They both had past issues with not so perfect parents, which jaded their idea of a relationship; but with the trust of God on their side, they learned what true love meant. When they finally surrendered to that, it made me smile! The ending of this book took me by surprise and came from a source I never suspected; but maybe that was the authors intent—as it should be in a suspense novel!
Here’s a quote from the author in the readers note in the back of the book. It touched me and I hope it will you too!
“So if you struggle with letting God take charge, I hope you’ll remember Archer and Emily’s story, where they learn that it’s only in turning over their lives to God that they find His peace. “
*I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for my honest review, which I’ve provided here. Thank you Susan for the kind of suspenseful love story I enjoy! I look forward to many more by you! *
This book is part of the First Responders series by Susan and you can find more on her website: http://www.susansleeman.com/books/fir...
October 19, 2016
Not a huge fan of this one. Emily was way too stubborn, even for this type of book. She also was way too irrationally hung up on her mom and issues with men. The constant rehashing was so annoying. Again, the plot device of kissing in the heat of the moment. Someone shoot at you, out there somewhere trying to kill you but let's sit here and kiss. Also, oddly enough Darcie's personality was really pushy in this book. I wanted her to butt out more.
September 18, 2017
This book wasn't just bad in any conventional sense conveyed by the phrase, "I didn't really like this book". Because, you see, this book was spectacularly, and ultimately, humorously horrible. Perhaps it achieved that rarefied state of fiction in which the writing and story are so astoundingly awful that it becomes somewhat fun to read just like watching a 1950s guy-in-a-plastic-costume-monster movie is fun to watch. Fellow Good Readers, this book was bad.
So why did I read it? Well, I found it in a drawer in a hotel during a family vacation and started skimming it due to lack of other reading material. Finding it so funny, I began reading it to my wife and kids (of course, skipping anything inappropriate for 10-13 year-olds). We got such a kick out of how poorly written it was that we kept reading. It was a similar experience to how you probably couldn't help yourself from watching a refrigerator as it plunged out of a moving van on the highway at 68 miles per hour. You think to yourself, "this is going to be bad, but I have to see what happens anyway."
Here are samples of why this book will forever be a point of comedic derision in our family:
- The total implausibility someone who experienced the opening shooting scene being coherent enough to stumble into a romance just 1-2 days after the incident.
- The plot line was tedious and repetitive. Even my 10 year old picked up the pattern summarizing it as, "Disaster, Love, Fight, Repeat". And repeat it did. Over. And Over. And Again.
- By the way, the end of that last line was a parody of the author's irksome contrivance of using periods to construct sentences that aren't actually sentences. These words separated by periods have no legal right in the English language to be punctuated in such a manner. It's an insult to all actual sentences that have things like nouns, verbs, objects, etc.
- Emily's core romantic inhibition was rather opaque to me. But never fear! The author repeated the back story regarding her mother's capricious relationships with controlling men. Because I might have missed this the first 7 times, it was helpful to have it repeated at every excuse throughout the book.
- Nearly infinite repetition of the term "hard" to describe nearly any activity or bodily gesture (such as turning, breathing, blinking, etc.). Surely there are other terms in the English language to connote a similar concept.- Then again, how many of us actually "blink hard" or perform any of the other functions the author described as "hard"? The great thing here, though, is that the term was used on the last page too as a grand finale treat.
- The absence of any hint of media coverage in what would be an outrageous media circus for a small town in Oregon. The story's key protagonist returns to her normal life immediately after the incident with no hint that the situation in which she was embroiled was of interest to the larger community.
It was a really poorly written book. The negative effect of the lackluster writing was compounded by the thin plot, repetitive story line, contrived "surprise" ending, infusion of heavy-handed and often out of nowhere religiosity.
I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
So why did I read it? Well, I found it in a drawer in a hotel during a family vacation and started skimming it due to lack of other reading material. Finding it so funny, I began reading it to my wife and kids (of course, skipping anything inappropriate for 10-13 year-olds). We got such a kick out of how poorly written it was that we kept reading. It was a similar experience to how you probably couldn't help yourself from watching a refrigerator as it plunged out of a moving van on the highway at 68 miles per hour. You think to yourself, "this is going to be bad, but I have to see what happens anyway."
Here are samples of why this book will forever be a point of comedic derision in our family:
- The total implausibility someone who experienced the opening shooting scene being coherent enough to stumble into a romance just 1-2 days after the incident.
- The plot line was tedious and repetitive. Even my 10 year old picked up the pattern summarizing it as, "Disaster, Love, Fight, Repeat". And repeat it did. Over. And Over. And Again.
- By the way, the end of that last line was a parody of the author's irksome contrivance of using periods to construct sentences that aren't actually sentences. These words separated by periods have no legal right in the English language to be punctuated in such a manner. It's an insult to all actual sentences that have things like nouns, verbs, objects, etc.
- Emily's core romantic inhibition was rather opaque to me. But never fear! The author repeated the back story regarding her mother's capricious relationships with controlling men. Because I might have missed this the first 7 times, it was helpful to have it repeated at every excuse throughout the book.
- Nearly infinite repetition of the term "hard" to describe nearly any activity or bodily gesture (such as turning, breathing, blinking, etc.). Surely there are other terms in the English language to connote a similar concept.- Then again, how many of us actually "blink hard" or perform any of the other functions the author described as "hard"? The great thing here, though, is that the term was used on the last page too as a grand finale treat.
- The absence of any hint of media coverage in what would be an outrageous media circus for a small town in Oregon. The story's key protagonist returns to her normal life immediately after the incident with no hint that the situation in which she was embroiled was of interest to the larger community.
It was a really poorly written book. The negative effect of the lackluster writing was compounded by the thin plot, repetitive story line, contrived "surprise" ending, infusion of heavy-handed and often out of nowhere religiosity.
I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
July 28, 2016
All Emily Graves wants to do is keep her Aunt Birdie's Bed and Breakfast afloat and take care of Birdie as her memory declines. But one accident after another threatens to close the B&B down.
Archer Reed happens to be on the scene when a gunman starts shooting in a local mall. Preventing the man from killing Emily, Archer is concerned when the gunman threatens that there are others out to kill Emily.
Emily knows she can never trust a man. After watching her mother go from one man to another Emily has decided that men are not to be trusted. Archer knows that he can never trust a woman because once they find out about his trust fund he can never be sure if they want him for just his money. How can these two people who are becoming more and more attracted to each other learn to put their trust in God and put their past insecurities behind them?
Another page-turner by Susan Sleeman! As always she kept me on the edge of my seat and turning the pages. I loved Emily and Archer. I love that Archer is so protective. He can't help himself. Even when Emily makes it clear she doesn't want or need his help, he still protects her. I love that the whole First Responders team jumps in when one of their own needs them. All Archer had to do was make a phone call and they were all there to help with Emily's situation. I also love that each First Responders story has a Spiritual lesson that the characters learn. Now the only one left without a significant other is Jake. I'm looking forward to reading his story!
Archer Reed happens to be on the scene when a gunman starts shooting in a local mall. Preventing the man from killing Emily, Archer is concerned when the gunman threatens that there are others out to kill Emily.
Emily knows she can never trust a man. After watching her mother go from one man to another Emily has decided that men are not to be trusted. Archer knows that he can never trust a woman because once they find out about his trust fund he can never be sure if they want him for just his money. How can these two people who are becoming more and more attracted to each other learn to put their trust in God and put their past insecurities behind them?
Another page-turner by Susan Sleeman! As always she kept me on the edge of my seat and turning the pages. I loved Emily and Archer. I love that Archer is so protective. He can't help himself. Even when Emily makes it clear she doesn't want or need his help, he still protects her. I love that the whole First Responders team jumps in when one of their own needs them. All Archer had to do was make a phone call and they were all there to help with Emily's situation. I also love that each First Responders story has a Spiritual lesson that the characters learn. Now the only one left without a significant other is Jake. I'm looking forward to reading his story!
July 24, 2016
Emily left her job and moved back home to help her aunt with her bed-and-breakfast. Her aunt is showing signs of dementia and Emily will do anything for the woman who took her in as a child. But almost immediately bad things begin happening that Emily can't explain. In a hostage situation at the mall she comes face to face with a man determined to kill her. Only the quick thinking and negotiation skills of a deputy named Archer save her. Now the whole team is trying to find out who has a vendetta against Emily.
Fast paced, drama filled, great characters, attraction, sweet romance, and strong family ties are all words to describe this wonderful story. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. It has all the elements that I love in a romantic suspense. I'd been waiting a long time to read about Archer and this book didn't disappoint. The author does a great job of refreshing the reader's mind about previous characters without making it redundant, while also wording things in such a way that this book could easily be read as a stand-alone. But I would recommend starting at the beginning. You won't be sorry. Can't wait for the next book by this author.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
Fast paced, drama filled, great characters, attraction, sweet romance, and strong family ties are all words to describe this wonderful story. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. It has all the elements that I love in a romantic suspense. I'd been waiting a long time to read about Archer and this book didn't disappoint. The author does a great job of refreshing the reader's mind about previous characters without making it redundant, while also wording things in such a way that this book could easily be read as a stand-alone. But I would recommend starting at the beginning. You won't be sorry. Can't wait for the next book by this author.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
July 25, 2016
This is another fantastic suspense novel!
Though all of the members of the FRS are present and helping out in this book the story itself is a stand-alone suspense. It is fun to catch up on the private lives of the main characters from the previous books.
After meeting Archer Reed in the earlier books in this series I was very happy to find out more about him. I found Emily Graves to be a wonderfully well-developed character and well suited to Archer. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing how the two of them interacted with each other from the beginning of the story.
They each have very deep emotional wounds that have made them swear off of romantic relationships. Yet their attraction to each other has both of them struggling and fighting personal battles in the midst of the danger that is lurking and threatening to destroy Emily.
I love the fact that part of the struggle for both of them is their mental belief in God and trying to get their hearts to accept the truth of His faithfulness. It can be a big journey and one that every believer has to take.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Though all of the members of the FRS are present and helping out in this book the story itself is a stand-alone suspense. It is fun to catch up on the private lives of the main characters from the previous books.
After meeting Archer Reed in the earlier books in this series I was very happy to find out more about him. I found Emily Graves to be a wonderfully well-developed character and well suited to Archer. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing how the two of them interacted with each other from the beginning of the story.
They each have very deep emotional wounds that have made them swear off of romantic relationships. Yet their attraction to each other has both of them struggling and fighting personal battles in the midst of the danger that is lurking and threatening to destroy Emily.
I love the fact that part of the struggle for both of them is their mental belief in God and trying to get their hearts to accept the truth of His faithfulness. It can be a big journey and one that every believer has to take.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 3, 2016
SILENT SABOTAGE is the fifth book in Ms. Sleeman's First Responder series, but it easily stands alone. I enjoyed getting to know Emily and Archer. Archer is a sweetie, strong and courageous and he knows when to take control and when to step back and leave Emily alone--usually.
Emily is prickly and wants to be in control of her own life. She doesn't appreciate Archer taking control even when it's for her own safety. I understand why once it's revealed, but until then it kind of grated on me.
I did figure out "whodunit" before the end of the book but I didn't know why so I had to keep reading to find out. Ms. Sleeman is a master at romantic suspense and I highly recommend this book and/or any of the other books in this collection.
Emily is prickly and wants to be in control of her own life. She doesn't appreciate Archer taking control even when it's for her own safety. I understand why once it's revealed, but until then it kind of grated on me.
I did figure out "whodunit" before the end of the book but I didn't know why so I had to keep reading to find out. Ms. Sleeman is a master at romantic suspense and I highly recommend this book and/or any of the other books in this collection.
September 5, 2016
This 5th book in Susan Sleeman's 'First Responder' series is again top notch! She knows her suspense. Emily Graves is trying to save her aunt's B&B from going under, but someone is trying to kill her, it seems. Archer Reed, sheriff's deputy, is determined that the would be murderer will not succeed.
Sleeman has created believable characters in a lovely setting in the Pacific Northwest. I enjoyed it as I did the others before it and I had no clue of the culprit's identity until the very end!
It has a very valuable spiritual lesson, too. Ministered to me.
*I was provided with a free copy for review purposes; all opinions are my own.
Sleeman has created believable characters in a lovely setting in the Pacific Northwest. I enjoyed it as I did the others before it and I had no clue of the culprit's identity until the very end!
It has a very valuable spiritual lesson, too. Ministered to me.
*I was provided with a free copy for review purposes; all opinions are my own.
July 27, 2016
Maybe as much as 3 1/2. It started out well, even funny, and the female protagonist was strong. However, it was too wordy, especially toward the end, and the "faith
part of the novel was too "in-your-face."
part of the novel was too "in-your-face."
Read
July 27, 2016received 4 stars @ RT Book Reviews
Miniseries: First Responders
Miniseries: First Responders
June 8, 2020
Another good story in the First Responders series by Susan Sleeman. Archer is a character who is generally in the background of the previous stories, but his character and secrets finally come to light in book 5. Archer finds himself alone on the scene of an active shooter with a vendetta against a young woman, Emily, who is trying to help an aunt with Alzheimer's. Both Archer and Emily struggle to trust, but before the story is over they will have to trust not only each other, but will need to trust God to see them through the danger! I purchased this book from the author's website.
October 31, 2020
In the beginning it had promise but as I read further the worse it got. The plot felt clunky and out of place. The way they depict the aunt where it just can clear up felt like someone wrapped a soggy wet sponge put it in a cottage cheese container and wrapped it hastily with wet socks and gave it as a present. I feel and know it could have been handled much better and it wasn't. The characters feel hollow and like cardboard. The ending felt rushed and was a let down. I don't recommend this book.
April 4, 2019
I was so hopeful after reading the synopsis, but once again I forgot to read the fine print, so to speak, and ended up not enjoying his faith heavy romance. Not what I was looking for - I was after a spooky romantic suspense- but I’m sure this will delight other readers as the characters were engaging and the setting suitably remote.
1.5 stars. It just wasn’t for me.
1.5 stars. It just wasn’t for me.
January 23, 2023
DNF at 30%. This is not the book for me, even with the character sharing my name. It’s ridiculously dramatic, and is working serious over time to try and make for drama but just ends up being ridiculous and unbelievable. I think this is a two star or lower book, but out of fairness since I did not finish, I’ll give it three stars.
March 4, 2017
Great story
This my first time reading this author's book. Loved the suspense that was created. Who doesn't love a good who done it book? I look forward to reading some of Ms. Susan Sleeman other books.
This my first time reading this author's book. Loved the suspense that was created. Who doesn't love a good who done it book? I look forward to reading some of Ms. Susan Sleeman other books.
February 10, 2019
WONDERFUL!!!!!
What a wonderful book. Intrigue, love and God. It's sometimes hard to trust God with our lives, our loved ones and ourselves but it's worth it when we let go a d God take over.
What a wonderful book. Intrigue, love and God. It's sometimes hard to trust God with our lives, our loved ones and ourselves but it's worth it when we let go a d God take over.
July 13, 2024
This one got a bit muddled with so many suspects and so many bad things happening with Alzheimer's, a fire, shootings, poisoning, arrows, kidnapping, it got crazy but still worked as a story. Clean romance with suspense.
December 7, 2025
A Little Mystery & Suspense
This book has a little mystery and some suspense! I di dn't figure it out until towards the end. Interesting, but not as good as her later books. Great cover!
This book has a little mystery and some suspense! I di dn't figure it out until towards the end. Interesting, but not as good as her later books. Great cover!
December 4, 2017
Wonderful
Hold on to your hats.This one starts off fast and just keeps going.Suspense,mystery,thrills and laughter and let's not forget the love.
Hold on to your hats.This one starts off fast and just keeps going.Suspense,mystery,thrills and laughter and let's not forget the love.
August 21, 2018
Well written and very good book!
April 17, 2024
Review of Silent Sabotage
I absolutely loved this book and I will definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves romantic suspense novels. She is an amazing writer!
I absolutely loved this book and I will definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves romantic suspense novels. She is an amazing writer!
March 24, 2025
Loved this story. I've been waiting for Archer's story. Looking forward to book 6!
September 2, 2016
Silent Sabotage
Silent Sabotage is book 5 in the First Responders series by Susan Sleeman. Each book in the series focuses on a different member of the First Response Squad. This book is about Archer Reed, the negotiator of the team. The story starts out with Archer responding to a call for an active shooter. When he arrives on the scene, he finds that the gunman has a hostage – Emily Graves. Archer was able to talk down the gunman and resolve the situation with no loss of life. With the gunman in jail, both Archer and Emily thought that the situation and attempts on her life would be over, but they were both wrong.
Emily left her job as a corporate accountant to help her aunt Birdie run her B&B after Birdie’s health started failing. Not long after joining Birdie at the B&B, several unusual events occurred that, at the time were thought to be accidents, and later were determined to be attempts on her life and attempts to sabotage the business side of the B&B. As Emily and Archer try to narrow down who is behind the escalating attacks, Emily struggles with lingering issues from her past that make it difficult for her to trust both Archer and God. Little did she know that Archer also had dealt with betrayal in his past and had trouble trusting the motives of potential relationships due to a large trust fund. As the B&B is on the brink of foreclosure and Emily’s life is still in danger, Emily is forced to trust both God and Archer to get through this.
One of my favorite lines from the book comes from Darcie Stephens (the main character in Emergency Response – book 4) as she was talking to Emily about dealing with issues from her past. “Then all I need to say is let go of whatever you’re worrying about. Choosing a life of worry when peace is available is foolish. You’ll only drown in the worry and miss the best God has waiting for you.” I love how Susan Sleeman makes her characters so relatable. They are all flawed in some way or another, and she uses those flaws to show how they (and we) can trust God to help overcome those flaws and difficult situations that come in their lives. Even with their flaws and difficult pasts, both Emily and Archer have many admirable qualities. Archer is an honorable and reliable man who is selfless in stepping in to protect Emily – a woman who he’d just met. Emily is an independent woman who put her own life on hold to both run her aunt’s B&B, and also become a full time caregiver for her aunt Birdie who had been diagnosed as having Alzheimer’s. She did this, not out of obligation, but out of love for her aunt who raised her from the time she was a young teenager. I found myself alternating between cheering them on and wanting to knock some sense into both Emily and Archer as each attack brought them closer to each other, yet made them want to pull back to protect their hearts.
My only complaint with this book is that I have to wait until December for the next, and last, book in the First Responders series to be released. I’m looking forward to reading Jake’s story and seeing more of Archer and Emily.
*I received a copy of this wonderful book from the author in exchange for my honest review. And in all honesty, after buying the first book of the series (and books 2-4 as well), she had me hooked and I would have purchased Silent Sabotage anyway.
Here is a link to The First Responders section of the author's website: http://www.susansleeman.com/books/fir...
Silent Sabotage is book 5 in the First Responders series by Susan Sleeman. Each book in the series focuses on a different member of the First Response Squad. This book is about Archer Reed, the negotiator of the team. The story starts out with Archer responding to a call for an active shooter. When he arrives on the scene, he finds that the gunman has a hostage – Emily Graves. Archer was able to talk down the gunman and resolve the situation with no loss of life. With the gunman in jail, both Archer and Emily thought that the situation and attempts on her life would be over, but they were both wrong.
Emily left her job as a corporate accountant to help her aunt Birdie run her B&B after Birdie’s health started failing. Not long after joining Birdie at the B&B, several unusual events occurred that, at the time were thought to be accidents, and later were determined to be attempts on her life and attempts to sabotage the business side of the B&B. As Emily and Archer try to narrow down who is behind the escalating attacks, Emily struggles with lingering issues from her past that make it difficult for her to trust both Archer and God. Little did she know that Archer also had dealt with betrayal in his past and had trouble trusting the motives of potential relationships due to a large trust fund. As the B&B is on the brink of foreclosure and Emily’s life is still in danger, Emily is forced to trust both God and Archer to get through this.
One of my favorite lines from the book comes from Darcie Stephens (the main character in Emergency Response – book 4) as she was talking to Emily about dealing with issues from her past. “Then all I need to say is let go of whatever you’re worrying about. Choosing a life of worry when peace is available is foolish. You’ll only drown in the worry and miss the best God has waiting for you.” I love how Susan Sleeman makes her characters so relatable. They are all flawed in some way or another, and she uses those flaws to show how they (and we) can trust God to help overcome those flaws and difficult situations that come in their lives. Even with their flaws and difficult pasts, both Emily and Archer have many admirable qualities. Archer is an honorable and reliable man who is selfless in stepping in to protect Emily – a woman who he’d just met. Emily is an independent woman who put her own life on hold to both run her aunt’s B&B, and also become a full time caregiver for her aunt Birdie who had been diagnosed as having Alzheimer’s. She did this, not out of obligation, but out of love for her aunt who raised her from the time she was a young teenager. I found myself alternating between cheering them on and wanting to knock some sense into both Emily and Archer as each attack brought them closer to each other, yet made them want to pull back to protect their hearts.
My only complaint with this book is that I have to wait until December for the next, and last, book in the First Responders series to be released. I’m looking forward to reading Jake’s story and seeing more of Archer and Emily.
*I received a copy of this wonderful book from the author in exchange for my honest review. And in all honesty, after buying the first book of the series (and books 2-4 as well), she had me hooked and I would have purchased Silent Sabotage anyway.
Here is a link to The First Responders section of the author's website: http://www.susansleeman.com/books/fir...
October 9, 2016
A killer is closer than they think...
I've been looking forward to Silent Sabotage for quite awhile, ever since I first saw that mysterious and even slightly spooky looking house on the cover. Not only did the story not disappoint but it happened yet again! It seems like every new Susan Sleeman book I read becomes my favorite.
As with each of her stories Silent Sabotage starts out with a real bang, readers are dropped into the danger and mystery right off and after that you can only gasp as you breathlessly turn the pages to find out what happens next. This book shows off Susan Sleeman's talent for grabbing her readers' attention and not letting it go until the exciting and romantic conclusion. And with this one, readers will be left reeling as the villain is revealed during the tense climax.
Fans, like me, of her First Responders series from Love Inspired Suspense are sure to enjoy this book and will anxiously look forward to the next one. Don't miss Silent Sabotage or any of Susan Sleeman's other wonderful romantic suspense stories!
(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my review. All opinions are entirely my own.)
I've been looking forward to Silent Sabotage for quite awhile, ever since I first saw that mysterious and even slightly spooky looking house on the cover. Not only did the story not disappoint but it happened yet again! It seems like every new Susan Sleeman book I read becomes my favorite.
As with each of her stories Silent Sabotage starts out with a real bang, readers are dropped into the danger and mystery right off and after that you can only gasp as you breathlessly turn the pages to find out what happens next. This book shows off Susan Sleeman's talent for grabbing her readers' attention and not letting it go until the exciting and romantic conclusion. And with this one, readers will be left reeling as the villain is revealed during the tense climax.
Fans, like me, of her First Responders series from Love Inspired Suspense are sure to enjoy this book and will anxiously look forward to the next one. Don't miss Silent Sabotage or any of Susan Sleeman's other wonderful romantic suspense stories!
(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my review. All opinions are entirely my own.)
September 4, 2016
Silent Sabotage almost begins with a bang, but due to the work of negotiator Archer Reed it doesn’t. Thanks to his professionalism he is able to talk the shooter down, get help for the wounded and have a team member get the bomb vest off of hostage Emily Graves. The shooter implies that Emily is still in danger so Archer volunteers to stay with her until everything is cleared up and help out in any way that he can. Emily has returned to the area recently to help her beloved Aunt Birdie run the bed and breakfast that she owns because things have been going downhill with both her health and the B and B. For someone that has recently returned there seems to be an abundance of suspects that Archer and his team will have to look into.
One thing that Archer has to help with as soon as they get to the B and B is help chase down a bunch of chickens that have gotten lose. This scene is the funniest to me. He is holding one of the chickens when it poops on his shirt. Archer is OCD about his clothing, so is extremely disgruntled at that moment. Emily starts laughing but when he says it isn’t funny she replies “You’re right. The shirt isn’t funny and I’m sorry this happened.” “But you just stared down a guy with a bomb not more than an hour ago with hardly a hint of what you are feeling, and now? Now the horror on your face is from a chicken. That’s priceless.”
Emily and Archer come from very different backgrounds but both have been hurt deeply by their parents which has caused both of them to be extremely cautious in their relationships with everyone. Theirs is a relationship of one step forward and two steps back. Susan has created two wonderful characters in Emily and Archer. They are believable. So much so, that every once in a while you want to smack them both upside the head and say would you just open your eyes.
The entire series has been full of characters from different walks of life that lends to a tight knit team that work extremely well together. I would recommend this book, and the entire series, to anyone that likes some romance with their suspense. If you haven’t read the rest of “The First Responders” series you can go to this link http://www.susansleeman.com/books/fir... to find out more about it. I can’t wait until the next book comes out.
I received a free copy of Silent Sabotage for my honest review which I have just shared with you.
One thing that Archer has to help with as soon as they get to the B and B is help chase down a bunch of chickens that have gotten lose. This scene is the funniest to me. He is holding one of the chickens when it poops on his shirt. Archer is OCD about his clothing, so is extremely disgruntled at that moment. Emily starts laughing but when he says it isn’t funny she replies “You’re right. The shirt isn’t funny and I’m sorry this happened.” “But you just stared down a guy with a bomb not more than an hour ago with hardly a hint of what you are feeling, and now? Now the horror on your face is from a chicken. That’s priceless.”
Emily and Archer come from very different backgrounds but both have been hurt deeply by their parents which has caused both of them to be extremely cautious in their relationships with everyone. Theirs is a relationship of one step forward and two steps back. Susan has created two wonderful characters in Emily and Archer. They are believable. So much so, that every once in a while you want to smack them both upside the head and say would you just open your eyes.
The entire series has been full of characters from different walks of life that lends to a tight knit team that work extremely well together. I would recommend this book, and the entire series, to anyone that likes some romance with their suspense. If you haven’t read the rest of “The First Responders” series you can go to this link http://www.susansleeman.com/books/fir... to find out more about it. I can’t wait until the next book comes out.
I received a free copy of Silent Sabotage for my honest review which I have just shared with you.
August 2, 2016
I've always wanted to visit or own a Bed and Breakfast, so I really enjoyed this story, which mostly takes place around Birdie's B & B in rural Oregon. However, I'd prefer to find one with a little less danger surrounding it. This series has been my favorite from Susan Sleeman. I enjoy the closeness of the First Responders team. Each story has its own unique plot, so while some of the characters appear throughout, the location of each one is fresh. This story was full of suspense and had a great pace that made it difficult to put down.
Plot: When a shopping trip with her Aunt Birdie lands Emily Graves in the middle of an explosive hostage situation, it's up to negotiator Archer Reed to keep everyone safe. After repeated incidents at Birdie's Bed and Breakfast, it soon becomes clear that Emily's still in danger. Archer appoints himself her bodyguard, but Emily still tries to keep him at arm's length. Between Birdie's advancing Alzheimer's, financial troubles and the threats to her safety, Emily's chances of keeping the B & B open are running out.
Characters: I really liked Emily and her loyalty to her Aunt Birdie. She's willing to sacrifice to try to safe her aunt's livelihood. Archer's been through some bad relationships and is hesitant to become involved again. I loved his quirkiness when it comes to being clean. He doesn’t hesitate to rush in where a bomb is, but he'll think twice about entering a chicken coop.
Recommendation: I'd highly recommend this book, and the entire First Responders series, to those who enjoy clean romantic suspense with an inspirational thread. While it's the fifth book in the series, it can stand alone, but I think you'll want to start at the beginning and get to know all the characters.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Plot: When a shopping trip with her Aunt Birdie lands Emily Graves in the middle of an explosive hostage situation, it's up to negotiator Archer Reed to keep everyone safe. After repeated incidents at Birdie's Bed and Breakfast, it soon becomes clear that Emily's still in danger. Archer appoints himself her bodyguard, but Emily still tries to keep him at arm's length. Between Birdie's advancing Alzheimer's, financial troubles and the threats to her safety, Emily's chances of keeping the B & B open are running out.
Characters: I really liked Emily and her loyalty to her Aunt Birdie. She's willing to sacrifice to try to safe her aunt's livelihood. Archer's been through some bad relationships and is hesitant to become involved again. I loved his quirkiness when it comes to being clean. He doesn’t hesitate to rush in where a bomb is, but he'll think twice about entering a chicken coop.
Recommendation: I'd highly recommend this book, and the entire First Responders series, to those who enjoy clean romantic suspense with an inspirational thread. While it's the fifth book in the series, it can stand alone, but I think you'll want to start at the beginning and get to know all the characters.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2016
Susan Sleeman has delivered another page-turning romantic suspense with book number five in her First Responders series. Readers who have followed from book one know that there are two team members who have yet to meet their match—negotiator Archer Reed and team leader Jake Marsh (whose story is coming this December).
Emily Graves is threatened by a lone gunman, and Deputy Archer Reed makes it his personal mission to protect Emily and her failing aunt. When Emily shares some more incidents that seemed like accidents, Archer is convinced someone is out to ruin Emily and her aunt’s B and B.
The chemistry between Archer and Emily is electric and I was rooting for them from the beginning. This may have included wanting to yell at them to get out of their own heads or to move on from the past. The return of a few team members, including Darcie from Emergency Response, was also enjoyable.
While the non-stop action and a plot that will keep you guessing to the end will keep you turning the pages, it’s the personal journeys that both Archer and Emily take that speak to the heart of the reader. It is so easy for us to want to control the events in our lives, to avoid those things that ***might*** be painful. Sometimes we avoid them to our detriment because coming out on the other side can be beautiful.
The entire First Responders series has been a joy to read as I’ve gotten to know this team of good-hearted law enforcement professionals who are also human (with struggles and fears of their own to overcome). Can’t wait to read about their fearless leader this December!
***The author provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Emily Graves is threatened by a lone gunman, and Deputy Archer Reed makes it his personal mission to protect Emily and her failing aunt. When Emily shares some more incidents that seemed like accidents, Archer is convinced someone is out to ruin Emily and her aunt’s B and B.
The chemistry between Archer and Emily is electric and I was rooting for them from the beginning. This may have included wanting to yell at them to get out of their own heads or to move on from the past. The return of a few team members, including Darcie from Emergency Response, was also enjoyable.
While the non-stop action and a plot that will keep you guessing to the end will keep you turning the pages, it’s the personal journeys that both Archer and Emily take that speak to the heart of the reader. It is so easy for us to want to control the events in our lives, to avoid those things that ***might*** be painful. Sometimes we avoid them to our detriment because coming out on the other side can be beautiful.
The entire First Responders series has been a joy to read as I’ve gotten to know this team of good-hearted law enforcement professionals who are also human (with struggles and fears of their own to overcome). Can’t wait to read about their fearless leader this December!
***The author provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
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