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Danger in the Deep South #2
Devoted Defender
Devoted Defender
Danger in the Deep South #2
Personal Chef Annie Thomas thought she’d finally found a safe haven from her past. But when her boss is shot in cold blood leaving her as the only witness, she’s forced to go on the run—again. And this time there is an even bigger target on her back.
Navy SEAL turned small town police chief Caleb Winters doesn’t like that danger has come to Maxwell, Georgia. But he vows to protect the innocent woman seeking refuge from an organized crime network that he knows will stop at nothing to tie up loose ends.
When hiding is no longer an option and threats surround them, will Caleb be the devoted defender Annie needs with her life on the line?
Danger in the Deep South #2
Personal Chef Annie Thomas thought she’d finally found a safe haven from her past. But when her boss is shot in cold blood leaving her as the only witness, she’s forced to go on the run—again. And this time there is an even bigger target on her back.
Navy SEAL turned small town police chief Caleb Winters doesn’t like that danger has come to Maxwell, Georgia. But he vows to protect the innocent woman seeking refuge from an organized crime network that he knows will stop at nothing to tie up loose ends.
When hiding is no longer an option and threats surround them, will Caleb be the devoted defender Annie needs with her life on the line?
- GenresContemporarySuspense
192 pages, Paperback
Published August 30, 2016
119 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Dylan
27 books524 followersRachel Dylan is an award-winning and bestselling author of legal thrillers and romantic suspense. Rachel has practiced law for almost two decades, including as a litigator at one of the nation's top law firms. Rachel lives in Michigan with her husband and three furkids—one loveable Labrador and two senior cats. Rachel loves to connect with readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 9, 2021
I was glad this was a short book because within even the first two chapters I had serious questions.
A very nice police chief of a small town pulls Annie over for speeding, and nicely questions why she's in town. She wanted to see what the town was like, might even live there.
The next day she's employed as a fry-cook for the restaurant he frequents. He loves her twist on the BLT he ordered. This is their second meeting.... He knows nothing about her, but he's curious.
Then it gets strange.
She’s not under suspicion, he's just curious. So, when you’re curious about someone, you follow them, right? And if they go to a big city, say Atlanta, and she's invited into a private residence there, you stealthily follow her in there too, right? Um, no... And as you're passing through this person's house you see a man struggling with her, and they both fall on top of an end table... you automatically shoot at the man who fell with her, right? And at close range you miss so he skeedaddles it out of the house, right?
A police chief, or should I say, a NORMAL police chief would never have done anything like that. If he followed her, but stayed in the car (still weird), he would not have heard their struggle, and would have had no reason to enter. So for him to hear a struggle, he had to be in at least the next room. 🤨🙄
At the hospital later, when she regains consciousness, they both have questions. She asked how he knew she was there? His answer...He followed her. She didn’t even ask why. Even if someone did save my life, I’d still want to know what he was thinking following me into a private residence when there was nothing suspicious to pin on either of them. Just didn’t make sense.
Then he informs her he sent some officers to her apartment to pick up extra clothes. Her apartment? How does he know where she lives, and why didn’t he get permission to do so? After all, they've only met twice, aren’t friends, and cops don’t usually go into strangers' apartments to get their clothing.
There were more items that defied police procedure, but mostly it lacked essential detail to give it depth and intrigue.
Faith issues were the best part. Done well in conversations. Not preachy, just honest sharing.
Now, if the intended audience is a middle schooler, this would be a good book. At least a 4-star, as it was clean, not too gory (Annie witnessed her employer being shot point blank in the head.). And maybe a middle schooler wouldn’t note the weirdness.
I wish I could have enjoyed it more. It’s just not one that I wouldn't call it good at all....Yet...maybe with rewrites..(?)
A very nice police chief of a small town pulls Annie over for speeding, and nicely questions why she's in town. She wanted to see what the town was like, might even live there.
The next day she's employed as a fry-cook for the restaurant he frequents. He loves her twist on the BLT he ordered. This is their second meeting.... He knows nothing about her, but he's curious.
Then it gets strange.
She’s not under suspicion, he's just curious. So, when you’re curious about someone, you follow them, right? And if they go to a big city, say Atlanta, and she's invited into a private residence there, you stealthily follow her in there too, right? Um, no... And as you're passing through this person's house you see a man struggling with her, and they both fall on top of an end table... you automatically shoot at the man who fell with her, right? And at close range you miss so he skeedaddles it out of the house, right?
A police chief, or should I say, a NORMAL police chief would never have done anything like that. If he followed her, but stayed in the car (still weird), he would not have heard their struggle, and would have had no reason to enter. So for him to hear a struggle, he had to be in at least the next room. 🤨🙄
At the hospital later, when she regains consciousness, they both have questions. She asked how he knew she was there? His answer...He followed her. She didn’t even ask why. Even if someone did save my life, I’d still want to know what he was thinking following me into a private residence when there was nothing suspicious to pin on either of them. Just didn’t make sense.
Then he informs her he sent some officers to her apartment to pick up extra clothes. Her apartment? How does he know where she lives, and why didn’t he get permission to do so? After all, they've only met twice, aren’t friends, and cops don’t usually go into strangers' apartments to get their clothing.
There were more items that defied police procedure, but mostly it lacked essential detail to give it depth and intrigue.
Faith issues were the best part. Done well in conversations. Not preachy, just honest sharing.
Now, if the intended audience is a middle schooler, this would be a good book. At least a 4-star, as it was clean, not too gory (Annie witnessed her employer being shot point blank in the head.). And maybe a middle schooler wouldn’t note the weirdness.
I wish I could have enjoyed it more. It’s just not one that I wouldn't call it good at all....Yet...maybe with rewrites..(?)
August 15, 2019
From the moment I saw the cover and title to this book, I knew I had to read it! Even though it's the sequel to Lethal Action, it can totally be read as a stand alone (I didn't read the first one and still loved this one).
Annie is a fabulous chef and shows up to work on her night off to pick up a recipe. Little does she know that this decision will change her life. When arriving, she witnesses her boss being murdered in a crime deal gone badly. Now she is on the run for her life and due to a traumatic experience with the police from her past, there's no way she's going to them for help this time.
Caleb Winters is doing a routine traffic stop when he meets Annie and instantly knows she's in trouble. She has found his small town in Maxwell and he is intrigued by her presence there. However, Caleb also has a traumatic experience from his past as a SEAL and is determined to keep his distance with Annie all the while determined to keep her safe from a crime organization.
"Because you matter to me, Annie. Like no other woman ever has."
Will Annie and Caleb manage to stay alive and out of harm's way while battling their personal feelings for one another? With help from Caleb's siblings and some FBI friends, this is one action packed read that kept my attention from start to finish :)
After reading this book, I WANT a devoted defender!! :)
*Received a free copy. A positive review was not required. All thoughts and comments are my own*
Annie is a fabulous chef and shows up to work on her night off to pick up a recipe. Little does she know that this decision will change her life. When arriving, she witnesses her boss being murdered in a crime deal gone badly. Now she is on the run for her life and due to a traumatic experience with the police from her past, there's no way she's going to them for help this time.
Caleb Winters is doing a routine traffic stop when he meets Annie and instantly knows she's in trouble. She has found his small town in Maxwell and he is intrigued by her presence there. However, Caleb also has a traumatic experience from his past as a SEAL and is determined to keep his distance with Annie all the while determined to keep her safe from a crime organization.
"Because you matter to me, Annie. Like no other woman ever has."
Will Annie and Caleb manage to stay alive and out of harm's way while battling their personal feelings for one another? With help from Caleb's siblings and some FBI friends, this is one action packed read that kept my attention from start to finish :)
After reading this book, I WANT a devoted defender!! :)
*Received a free copy. A positive review was not required. All thoughts and comments are my own*
August 25, 2016
Devoted Defender is a solid addition to the Danger in the Deep South series. It can be read as a stand alone, or enjoyed as part of the series. This story has moments of high intensity action, deep spiritual questions, and the blossoming of a sweet romance. It is a great combination.
I really liked Annie and Caleb. The author did a good job of creating a very compelling back story for Annie. She had a deep-seated distrust for law enforcement that was completely understandable. Annie’s behavior and reaction to events in the story made a lot of sense considering what she went through in her past.
Caleb was also a great character. I liked how he real was devoted to Annie’s protection, just as stated in the title. He worked his hardest to keep her safe and tried to understand her viewpoints on things. There was a great faith message in the book and quite a bit of danger for Caleb and Annie to attempt to avoid. One of the best parts of Devoted Defender was the fact that it was extremely hard for Annie and Caleb to know who they could trust. That added a lot of excitement to the novel.
I received a compimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Blog: https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I really liked Annie and Caleb. The author did a good job of creating a very compelling back story for Annie. She had a deep-seated distrust for law enforcement that was completely understandable. Annie’s behavior and reaction to events in the story made a lot of sense considering what she went through in her past.
Caleb was also a great character. I liked how he real was devoted to Annie’s protection, just as stated in the title. He worked his hardest to keep her safe and tried to understand her viewpoints on things. There was a great faith message in the book and quite a bit of danger for Caleb and Annie to attempt to avoid. One of the best parts of Devoted Defender was the fact that it was extremely hard for Annie and Caleb to know who they could trust. That added a lot of excitement to the novel.
I received a compimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Blog: https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
June 5, 2016
****** I received this book, from the author in exchange for a honest review*****
Personal Chef Annie, witness her bosses murder. She is on the run, she goes to Maxwell, Georgia.
She gets pulled over for speeding by police chief Caleb Winters, he lets her go with a warning but he knows something is wrong...
Annie has a BAD past with Law Enforcement, that is why she didn't go to the Police, when her boss was murdered.
Annie Gets a job, at the dinner in Maxwell, Caleb followers her after work to find out what is wrong, lets just say he saves her life.....
Another thing, I will say Annie's past plays a huge part in this, so does Caleb's, it was great watching them dealing with everything... Caleb is a very sweet man, and very protective of her...
We see Caleb, doing everything in his power to protect her, we learn allot about Caleb and his family.
We see his brother Mac, who is HOT as well. We see his sister and we meet a new DEA agent. We also see Hope and Gabe from book one.....
During this book, you will have action, romance and 2 wounded souls who need one and another....
This was a great read, wish I could give it more then five stars.....
September 7, 2016
This is a great story that took me from Atlanta to a small town of Maxwell, Georgia. I met some incredible characters a long the way.
Annie Thomas is a personal executive chef to the Perry's, one of the most elite families in Atlanta. This job comes with many perks for her as a chef, such as, trying out new recipes and full reign of the beautiful kitchen. She has a good heart and weaved her way into mine quickly. When she witnesses the murder of her elderly employer she does what anyone would do in such a situation.
"She has witnessed a murder, but she willed herself to run faster. She pushed back a wave of nausea that threatened to overtake her. Doc had been shot point blank right in front of her eyes.
Suddenly she was very conflicted. Should she go to the police? And tell them what? She'd just witnessed a murder? A man she had never seen before was in the house and shot Doc Perry? One of the most well-known men in the fancy Atlanta suburb? What if the didn't believe her? Given her past she could never trust law enforcement again. Not when they had abandoned her before. And even more, what about the threats from the shooter? He said he would kill her if she went to the police. No, it wasn't worth the risk right now."
From page one the mystery and suspense starts and pulled me in. The author weaves words together that just brought the characters and community to life for me. I could feel the anxiety, fear and confusion Annie was feeling. As her mind raced with all sorts of scenarios she kept coming back to the thought that she needed to find a place to hideout until she could figure out what to do.
Maxwell, Georgia is a small town south of Atlanta. Their chief of police, Caleb Winters was a former Navy SEAL and took the job of protecting the citizens very personal. On patrol he ran into a brunette with beautiful hazel eyes that told him she was hiding something and that could possibly mean trouble was coming either for her or the town. How could he convince her to trust him to help her?
As the story progresses I found twists and turns that kept me reading until I turned the last page. Even then I found myself thinking about the characters, especially Annie. I began to ask myself could I trust a stranger completely? Annie found herself in a situation where she was scared, afraid and basically, had no one she could trust, but over time finds Caleb is a man of honor who is dedicated to his job. Unfortunately his job was what made her question whether she could trust him.
The author brings us a story with elements of mystery, suspense, romance and lots of faith. This is the second book in the Danger in the Deep South series, but it's definitely a stand alone book. As with any series I recommend reading the other books to get the full impact of the series, but it's not necessary. I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good suspense that keeps you guessing until the end.
**I received this book from the author for a honest review without bias or outside influence.
Annie Thomas is a personal executive chef to the Perry's, one of the most elite families in Atlanta. This job comes with many perks for her as a chef, such as, trying out new recipes and full reign of the beautiful kitchen. She has a good heart and weaved her way into mine quickly. When she witnesses the murder of her elderly employer she does what anyone would do in such a situation.
"She has witnessed a murder, but she willed herself to run faster. She pushed back a wave of nausea that threatened to overtake her. Doc had been shot point blank right in front of her eyes.
Suddenly she was very conflicted. Should she go to the police? And tell them what? She'd just witnessed a murder? A man she had never seen before was in the house and shot Doc Perry? One of the most well-known men in the fancy Atlanta suburb? What if the didn't believe her? Given her past she could never trust law enforcement again. Not when they had abandoned her before. And even more, what about the threats from the shooter? He said he would kill her if she went to the police. No, it wasn't worth the risk right now."
From page one the mystery and suspense starts and pulled me in. The author weaves words together that just brought the characters and community to life for me. I could feel the anxiety, fear and confusion Annie was feeling. As her mind raced with all sorts of scenarios she kept coming back to the thought that she needed to find a place to hideout until she could figure out what to do.
Maxwell, Georgia is a small town south of Atlanta. Their chief of police, Caleb Winters was a former Navy SEAL and took the job of protecting the citizens very personal. On patrol he ran into a brunette with beautiful hazel eyes that told him she was hiding something and that could possibly mean trouble was coming either for her or the town. How could he convince her to trust him to help her?
As the story progresses I found twists and turns that kept me reading until I turned the last page. Even then I found myself thinking about the characters, especially Annie. I began to ask myself could I trust a stranger completely? Annie found herself in a situation where she was scared, afraid and basically, had no one she could trust, but over time finds Caleb is a man of honor who is dedicated to his job. Unfortunately his job was what made her question whether she could trust him.
The author brings us a story with elements of mystery, suspense, romance and lots of faith. This is the second book in the Danger in the Deep South series, but it's definitely a stand alone book. As with any series I recommend reading the other books to get the full impact of the series, but it's not necessary. I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good suspense that keeps you guessing until the end.
**I received this book from the author for a honest review without bias or outside influence.
July 26, 2016
Devoted Defender ( Danger in the Deep South - Book 2 )
By: Rachel Dylan
Devoted Defender is book two in the Deep South Series. Even though it is book two , I would say that you can still read Devoted Defender as a stand alone with no problems. Dylan weaves a story that is packed with action , suspense, mystery and trust. She drew me in right at the start and did not let go till the end. She writes a page turner that will have you trying to read faster, and turning those pages faster to see what is going to happen next. Atlanta’s Personal Chef Annie was in the wrong place at the wrong time. She just had to go back and get her recipe so she could practice it and ended up witnessing her boss being killed in cold blood. She had thought she was safe in Atlanta, but now she is on the run again. Can Police Chief Caleb in a small town in Maxwell ,Georgia help and keep Annie safe ? Annie has had bad experience with the Law Enforcement before, can she trust Caleb with her life ?
I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
By: Rachel Dylan
Devoted Defender is book two in the Deep South Series. Even though it is book two , I would say that you can still read Devoted Defender as a stand alone with no problems. Dylan weaves a story that is packed with action , suspense, mystery and trust. She drew me in right at the start and did not let go till the end. She writes a page turner that will have you trying to read faster, and turning those pages faster to see what is going to happen next. Atlanta’s Personal Chef Annie was in the wrong place at the wrong time. She just had to go back and get her recipe so she could practice it and ended up witnessing her boss being killed in cold blood. She had thought she was safe in Atlanta, but now she is on the run again. Can Police Chief Caleb in a small town in Maxwell ,Georgia help and keep Annie safe ? Annie has had bad experience with the Law Enforcement before, can she trust Caleb with her life ?
I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
August 19, 2016
I was unfamiliar with Rachel Dylan’s novels but when I read a description of “Devoted Defender” I was pretty certain that she writes the kind of books I like to read. To prepare myself to review this book I decided to purchase the first book in the series “Lethal Action” and was so glad I did. Although each of the books easily stands on its own, I loved having the background from the first one as I read “Devoted Defender”. I will have to find time to review “Lethal Action” also.
When Annie Thomas witnesses a murder, she is forced to run for her life. When she arrives in Maxwell, Georgia she decides the small town may be a good place to lie low. Her first encounter is with police chief Caleb Winters when he pulls her over for speeding. Because of events in her past, Annie is afraid to trust the man who seems to read her mind. It doesn’t take very long until she is forced to trust him with her life.
The plot of “Devoted Defender” jumps right into action from the very first page and the danger and suspense mounts with each chapter. No matter what Caleb and other trusted law enforcement try, Annie’s location is compromised over and over. As most readers will expect, Caleb and Annie’s close proximity during such threatening circumstances leads to the inevitable romance between them. Fortunately the relationship develops in a natural and believable manner and does not seem forced. The story was filled with unexpected twists and a couple of major revelations that kept me on edge throughout.
I enjoyed catching up with Gabe and Hope as well as meeting Caleb’s twin Mac and their sister Gabby. I am hoping the entire crew will show up in future books of this series. Another author has been added to my favorites list and I will definitely be keeping my eyes open for more of Rachel’s books.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
When Annie Thomas witnesses a murder, she is forced to run for her life. When she arrives in Maxwell, Georgia she decides the small town may be a good place to lie low. Her first encounter is with police chief Caleb Winters when he pulls her over for speeding. Because of events in her past, Annie is afraid to trust the man who seems to read her mind. It doesn’t take very long until she is forced to trust him with her life.
The plot of “Devoted Defender” jumps right into action from the very first page and the danger and suspense mounts with each chapter. No matter what Caleb and other trusted law enforcement try, Annie’s location is compromised over and over. As most readers will expect, Caleb and Annie’s close proximity during such threatening circumstances leads to the inevitable romance between them. Fortunately the relationship develops in a natural and believable manner and does not seem forced. The story was filled with unexpected twists and a couple of major revelations that kept me on edge throughout.
I enjoyed catching up with Gabe and Hope as well as meeting Caleb’s twin Mac and their sister Gabby. I am hoping the entire crew will show up in future books of this series. Another author has been added to my favorites list and I will definitely be keeping my eyes open for more of Rachel’s books.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
July 26, 2016
Annie just saw her boss killed and now she is on the run something she learned in the past is to trust no cops, and now she wondering who she can trust and if they will find her who ever they are.
Caleb enjoys being a cop in a small town but he is all to aware that just because his town is small there is not bad things happening but he is going to do his darnedest to keep it safe. But when Annie comes speeding into his life he know he needs to protect her weather she likes it or not. But will Annie learn to trust him and will he be able to protect her or will someone in their circle put everyone in jeopardy including Annie's life?
OH MY Goodness I loved this book hands down. Rachel doesn't disappoint at all. She has once again knocked it out of the park with this book. I Love reading her books it really is easy to get completely lost in her books, including this one. I think the only negative thing I would have to say is I wish her books were much longer. If you have never read anything by her check this series out especially if you like Christian authors like Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey or even Terri Blackstock all these women are just amazing and I know that Rachel will not disappoint you either. Her books are on the small scale but you could totally know them out in one setting just needing to know whats going to happen next.
Caleb enjoys being a cop in a small town but he is all to aware that just because his town is small there is not bad things happening but he is going to do his darnedest to keep it safe. But when Annie comes speeding into his life he know he needs to protect her weather she likes it or not. But will Annie learn to trust him and will he be able to protect her or will someone in their circle put everyone in jeopardy including Annie's life?
OH MY Goodness I loved this book hands down. Rachel doesn't disappoint at all. She has once again knocked it out of the park with this book. I Love reading her books it really is easy to get completely lost in her books, including this one. I think the only negative thing I would have to say is I wish her books were much longer. If you have never read anything by her check this series out especially if you like Christian authors like Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey or even Terri Blackstock all these women are just amazing and I know that Rachel will not disappoint you either. Her books are on the small scale but you could totally know them out in one setting just needing to know whats going to happen next.
August 10, 2016
Devoted Defender by Rachel Dylan is book 2 in the Danger in the Deep South series. It can be read as a stand-alone even though Hope and Caleb make an appearance. So fans of Lethal Action will be thrilled. I have been hoping that Gabe would get his own book and I was not disappointed.
Devoted Defender was such a refreshing read. Finally, a female that doesn’t make stupid decisions to prove how stubborn and strong she is. She knew her skill set and didn’t make ridiculous proclamations about; I can handle myself against a major organized crime boss, like you see in some books.
I thought the book was very well thought out. At one point I was really impressed with Gabe’s reasoning. I wouldn’t have thought to question the bad guy about who all knew about her and that the answer would determine how he protected her.
I am a fan of Rachel’s books and she continues to satisfy. I enjoyed the addition of the dogs in the book too.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.
Devoted Defender was such a refreshing read. Finally, a female that doesn’t make stupid decisions to prove how stubborn and strong she is. She knew her skill set and didn’t make ridiculous proclamations about; I can handle myself against a major organized crime boss, like you see in some books.
I thought the book was very well thought out. At one point I was really impressed with Gabe’s reasoning. I wouldn’t have thought to question the bad guy about who all knew about her and that the answer would determine how he protected her.
I am a fan of Rachel’s books and she continues to satisfy. I enjoyed the addition of the dogs in the book too.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.
August 8, 2016
Book 2 in Danger in the Deep South Series
We meet Annie, whose life seems to be one of being in the wrong place.
In this story DEVOTED DEFENDER she is a personal chief, just trying to stay out of the lime light. Having only worked here for six months, didn't know too much about the family's dealing. Going back for recipes on her day off, she ends up running for her life once again. Her boss Doc, was killed in cold blood, what did that have to do with Tim Silva ? She flees to a small town of Maxwell, and meets the Chief of Police Caleb, and then the rest of the family. When trouble invades this small town.
Is she guilty, and what about Phil, Doc son who also lives in Maxwell ? Is he also innocence, or are they working together.
Another great mystery by Rachel, that will keep you turning pages to figure it out
Given ARC. by author for my honest opinion of which I have given.
Ellen White
Ellen White
We meet Annie, whose life seems to be one of being in the wrong place.
In this story DEVOTED DEFENDER she is a personal chief, just trying to stay out of the lime light. Having only worked here for six months, didn't know too much about the family's dealing. Going back for recipes on her day off, she ends up running for her life once again. Her boss Doc, was killed in cold blood, what did that have to do with Tim Silva ? She flees to a small town of Maxwell, and meets the Chief of Police Caleb, and then the rest of the family. When trouble invades this small town.
Is she guilty, and what about Phil, Doc son who also lives in Maxwell ? Is he also innocence, or are they working together.
Another great mystery by Rachel, that will keep you turning pages to figure it out
Given ARC. by author for my honest opinion of which I have given.
Ellen White
Ellen White
June 5, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This book was action packed from the start. When Annie, the personal chef to a doctor witnesses his murder and the assailant goes after her, she goes on the run. She gets pulled over by police chief, Caleb Winters and he realizes there is something very wrong. He escorts her into his town and helps her find a place for the night. The killer tracks her down and Caleb makes it his mission to keep her safe. Annie is very closed off and has a distrust of law enforcement from something from her past, but must rely on Caleb to help her. They start to have feelings for each other, but can Annie overcome her distrust to give her heart to Caleb? You will have to read it to find out.
June 9, 2016
Devoted Defender will more than meet your expectations as Rachel Dylan continues to provide heart-racing romance and suspense. Personal Chef, Annie Thomas, is in the wrong place at the wrong time. She walks into the home of her employer sees a man shoot Doc in the head. Frightened she runs for her life and ends up in the small town of Maxwell where she meets Chief of Police Caleb Winters. Now you have the jest of the story, or do you? What happened in Annie’s childhood that makes her wary of the police? Is there a mole in the FBI? Why would someone kill Doc Perry? Who betrays her? Will two people who have suffered lose take a chance on love? The only way to find out is to read Devoted Defender. I was provided an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
August 11, 2016
Devoted Defender by Rachel Dylan is book two in the Danger in the Deep South series. This book is captivating right from the start. I felt as though I was part of the action as it unfolded in this fast paced, exciting story. There is so much action, devotion, faith, love and determination in this story. There are characters that you will love and others that you want to see them get what they deserve. I am looking forward to reading book three when it comes out. Be sure to order your copy of Devoted Defender today. 5 stars. I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
August 19, 2016
Wow!!!!! Rachel Dylan gives us another first rate thriller in this book
Annie Thomas ,Personal Chef is on the run again after witnessing a murder.
Navy Seal turned small town Police chief and Annie race against time to solve the murder and protect Annie.
I loved the non stop suspense, the storyline and the characters.
We see God's love and protection through ought the book
I look forward to more by this author.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
Annie Thomas ,Personal Chef is on the run again after witnessing a murder.
Navy Seal turned small town Police chief and Annie race against time to solve the murder and protect Annie.
I loved the non stop suspense, the storyline and the characters.
We see God's love and protection through ought the book
I look forward to more by this author.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2018
Annie is a personal chef who ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time and witnesses a murder. Due to an experience with the police from her youth, she goes on the run instead of to the police. She ends up in small Maxwell, Georgia where she is stopped for speeding by Caleb, the chief of police. He senses she is fearful of something and keeps an eye on her. This works in her favor as he saves her life more than once. What at first appears to be a mobster tying up loose ends soon morphs into something much more. It is up to Caleb to figure out what’s going on and keep Annie safe as well. This book is full of suspense as well as quite a bit of mistrust and surprised emotions. Both Caleb and Annie have a past that must be dealt with before they can move forward to a better future.
June 30, 2017
This was not my favorite book. It was okay, but choppy and hard for me to get involved in the story at all. However, it could have been my mood at the time, as I was not really wanting to read a suspense book, so it took me some time to read it. If you enjoy light suspense, this may be the book for you.
April 12, 2018
Very well written and a great add the the Danger in the Deep South series!
February 4, 2019
this is a great story you will not be able to put down verygood,if you like suspense you have to read the book loved it
April 11, 2020
Better than the first. Still a little stilted but the characters were deeper and the danger felt more immediate. I actually thought .
March 22, 2022
Annie witnesses a murder and gets help and a new relationship from a local police chief, Caleb.
April 6, 2022
This story was pretty good, though I thought the first seemed a bit better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2022
Restored
Intriguing. Our past and circumstances can shape us, but we don’t have to stay in that mold. God strengthens us to go forward and overcome.
Intriguing. Our past and circumstances can shape us, but we don’t have to stay in that mold. God strengthens us to go forward and overcome.
August 14, 2024
Great read
July 13, 2025
cute but not very original, woman with a scared past, man with a protective instinct.
August 10, 2016
I loved book one in this series, Lethal Action, so it wasn't really any surprise that I loved this one too. Caleb and Annie are wonderful characters that are so easy to relate to and have great stories both individually and together.
This book really includes everything. I was pleased to find myself in a fast-paced novel full of action, adventure, suspense, drama, and of course romance. I really enjoyed getting to know Caleb better after meeting him briefly in the first book. He is an excellent police chief. I love how he isn't content to sit in an office and delegate but actually gets out there in public and does the leg work. And I truly love how passionate Annie is about her job as a chef.
Sometimes when both characters in a book have similar baggage it is overwhelming. But even though Caleb and Annie have some similarities in their past difficulties I never felt like their pasts overpowered their present day issues. And I loved the open dialogue that took place between the two of them. It isn't often you find a book where the dialogue between characters is so well played out. I also really appreciated that this wasn't another missionary dating situation. I loved that both characters were already strong in their Faith.
Another aspect of both Caleb and Annie's characters that I really appreciated were their flaws. Annie has some pretty serious fears of police from her childhood. And Caleb is dealing with his time in Afghanistan. Both of these issues are quite realistic with what many people face today and I was pleased to see characters working through such realistic situations.
Probably my absolute favorite parts of this novel surround the areas of suspense. There were a few different times where Dylan completely surprised me and I truly love being surprised in a suspenseful story. There was one point in the story where I actually took in a sharp breath because I was so surprised! This book isn't super heavy on the romance. But the moments that are there will make you sigh and Dylan does a great job of interspersing those amidst the tension of the story.
I really enjoy Dylan's books because she brings such a strong level of credibility to her novels since she is a lawyer. Her insight into how interviews with DAs go made for especially interesting scenes in this book. And I also loved her insight into what lawyers are looking for when they interview suspects and witnesses. I'm already looking forward to the third book in this series!
I was provided a free advanced copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review. But it was so good that I bought a copy yesterday!
This book really includes everything. I was pleased to find myself in a fast-paced novel full of action, adventure, suspense, drama, and of course romance. I really enjoyed getting to know Caleb better after meeting him briefly in the first book. He is an excellent police chief. I love how he isn't content to sit in an office and delegate but actually gets out there in public and does the leg work. And I truly love how passionate Annie is about her job as a chef.
Sometimes when both characters in a book have similar baggage it is overwhelming. But even though Caleb and Annie have some similarities in their past difficulties I never felt like their pasts overpowered their present day issues. And I loved the open dialogue that took place between the two of them. It isn't often you find a book where the dialogue between characters is so well played out. I also really appreciated that this wasn't another missionary dating situation. I loved that both characters were already strong in their Faith.
Another aspect of both Caleb and Annie's characters that I really appreciated were their flaws. Annie has some pretty serious fears of police from her childhood. And Caleb is dealing with his time in Afghanistan. Both of these issues are quite realistic with what many people face today and I was pleased to see characters working through such realistic situations.
Probably my absolute favorite parts of this novel surround the areas of suspense. There were a few different times where Dylan completely surprised me and I truly love being surprised in a suspenseful story. There was one point in the story where I actually took in a sharp breath because I was so surprised! This book isn't super heavy on the romance. But the moments that are there will make you sigh and Dylan does a great job of interspersing those amidst the tension of the story.
I really enjoy Dylan's books because she brings such a strong level of credibility to her novels since she is a lawyer. Her insight into how interviews with DAs go made for especially interesting scenes in this book. And I also loved her insight into what lawyers are looking for when they interview suspects and witnesses. I'm already looking forward to the third book in this series!
I was provided a free advanced copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review. But it was so good that I bought a copy yesterday!
September 11, 2016
I have read a number of novels by Rachel Dylan, and I must say that she just keeps getting better and better! Devoted Defender, the second installment in her Danger in The Deep South series, is now my favorite book by her. The romantic suspense will keep you guessing with its twists and turns and will make you sigh when the sparks fly between main characters Annie and Caleb. Being a Georgia girl, I also loved the small town Georgia setting as well. Great job, Rachel!
Annie Thomas flees to the small town of Maxwell after witnessing the murder of her boss. Annie’s past experiences with the police leave her unable to trust them. But Caleb Winters is different. From their first meeting, Annie finds that Caleb is truly caring and determined to see justice done. But can she really overcome the betrayals of her past?
In addition to the non-stop action with near fatal attacks by the bad guys and the romantic tension between the main characters, Devoted Defender has a strong faith thread. Characters are working through their faith, learning to trust God even when everything seems out of control. Annie had a difficult childhood and Caleb experienced trauma during his time of service. But both characters are Christians and learn that faith grows during hard times. A quick read, Devoted Defender is perfect to take along on a late summer getaway.
Devoted Defender is part of a series with recurring characters, but it can be read as a standalone. Hints of more to come have me anxiously awaiting more from Rachel. Can’t wait!
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to the author for providing a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Annie Thomas flees to the small town of Maxwell after witnessing the murder of her boss. Annie’s past experiences with the police leave her unable to trust them. But Caleb Winters is different. From their first meeting, Annie finds that Caleb is truly caring and determined to see justice done. But can she really overcome the betrayals of her past?
In addition to the non-stop action with near fatal attacks by the bad guys and the romantic tension between the main characters, Devoted Defender has a strong faith thread. Characters are working through their faith, learning to trust God even when everything seems out of control. Annie had a difficult childhood and Caleb experienced trauma during his time of service. But both characters are Christians and learn that faith grows during hard times. A quick read, Devoted Defender is perfect to take along on a late summer getaway.
Devoted Defender is part of a series with recurring characters, but it can be read as a standalone. Hints of more to come have me anxiously awaiting more from Rachel. Can’t wait!
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to the author for providing a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
July 9, 2016
No one deserves a devoted defender more than private chef Annie Thomas. After accidentally witnessing the brutal execution style murder of her employer, Anne flees Atlanta, Georgia with a trained assassin's threats ringing in her ears. She dares not go to the police, an experience with twisted justice as a teen has left Annie with little faith in local law enforcement.
Small town Chief of Police, Caleb Winters, pulls over a frightened young woman as she speeds through his town late one evening. Giving her a few directions into Maxwell, along with a warning, Caleb is naturally surprised when he eats her delicious food the next day at a local diner. It doesn't take long for Caleb to follow Annie into her troubles, which sets off a frantic wave of attempts to protect her from one of the most notorious crime syndicate bosses on the East Coast.
"Devoted Defender" is a wonderful addition to Rachel Dylan's "Danger in the Deep South" series. I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Small town Chief of Police, Caleb Winters, pulls over a frightened young woman as she speeds through his town late one evening. Giving her a few directions into Maxwell, along with a warning, Caleb is naturally surprised when he eats her delicious food the next day at a local diner. It doesn't take long for Caleb to follow Annie into her troubles, which sets off a frantic wave of attempts to protect her from one of the most notorious crime syndicate bosses on the East Coast.
"Devoted Defender" is a wonderful addition to Rachel Dylan's "Danger in the Deep South" series. I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 6, 2016
Devoted Defender
Rachel Dylan
A small town should be a safe haven for Annie after she witnesses a murder in Atlanta. Wrong! Enter the sheriff, Caleb, who becomes her protector as they struggle to stay ahead of the assassin who seems to know their every move. Can they keep safe and solve the mystery they are running from?
Once again Rachel has brought her readers to Maxwell, GA, an idyllic town where danger lurks beneath its surface. Intrigue, romance, loyalty, trust, family and friend ties, and betrayal is woven throughout this tale of right vs wrong with a twist you don't see coming.
Received an ARC for an honest review.
Rachel Dylan
A small town should be a safe haven for Annie after she witnesses a murder in Atlanta. Wrong! Enter the sheriff, Caleb, who becomes her protector as they struggle to stay ahead of the assassin who seems to know their every move. Can they keep safe and solve the mystery they are running from?
Once again Rachel has brought her readers to Maxwell, GA, an idyllic town where danger lurks beneath its surface. Intrigue, romance, loyalty, trust, family and friend ties, and betrayal is woven throughout this tale of right vs wrong with a twist you don't see coming.
Received an ARC for an honest review.
April 22, 2024
I have read all the other Rachel Dylan books in a series and loved them, especially the Windy Ridge series, my favorite! But this series just hasn’t really interested me, and then this book was barely 150 pages, more what I would call a novella... I like books to be at least 300 pages!
It was a good enough story, but there were no surprises, and the words just didn’t match the characters, if that makes sense. I love that Dylan always brings faith into her books; but there, too, I always want more open talk if Jesus and real faith! All in all, I liked it, but not well enough to give more than three stars.
It was a good enough story, but there were no surprises, and the words just didn’t match the characters, if that makes sense. I love that Dylan always brings faith into her books; but there, too, I always want more open talk if Jesus and real faith! All in all, I liked it, but not well enough to give more than three stars.
August 8, 2016
Wow! Another edge of the seat suspense story from Rachel that I couldn't put down after I started it. She certainly knows how to combine intriguing characters and a great story line that keeps the reader intrigued from the first pages. There are twists and turns that certainly kept me guessing as to what was going to happen next. I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review, and this is one that I definitely recommend to the reader that enjoys really good Christian suspense.
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