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Line of Duty #1
Crisis Shot
Tess O'Rourke dreams of becoming the first female chief of police in Long Beach, California. As commander of the East Division, she is well on her way . . . until the night she responds to an officer-needs-assistance call and fatally shoots an unarmed teenager. Despite being cleared of wrongdoing by a grand jury, Tess is so hounded by the public that she takes a job in Oregon to escape the bad press.
Winning over the residents of Rogue's Hollow might be more difficult than adjusting to her new role as police chief in the small, backwater town. Especially when her closest friend, the pastor's wife, goes missing and the woman's cousin is found shot. Tess finds an ally in sheriff's deputy Steve Logan, but as they track down Rogue's Hollow's first murderer, she worries that she's breaking one of her rules and getting too close to him.
Winning over the residents of Rogue's Hollow might be more difficult than adjusting to her new role as police chief in the small, backwater town. Especially when her closest friend, the pastor's wife, goes missing and the woman's cousin is found shot. Tess finds an ally in sheriff's deputy Steve Logan, but as they track down Rogue's Hollow's first murderer, she worries that she's breaking one of her rules and getting too close to him.
432 pages, Paperback
Published September 5, 2017
355 people are currently reading
1114 people want to read
About the author
Janice Cantore
21 books805 followersA former Long Beach, California, police officer of twenty-two years, Janice Cantore worked a variety of assignments, including patrol, administration, juvenile investigations, and training. She’s always enjoyed writing and published two short articles on faith at work for Cop and Christ and Today’s Christian Woman before tackling novels. Janice writes suspense novels designed to keep readers engrossed and leave them inspired. Her first series of novels is the Pacific Coast Justice series, featuring Carly Edwards in books Accused, Abducted and Avenged. Janice also authored the Brinna’s Heart series, which includes Critical Pursuit and Visible Threat. Another three book series is the Line of Duty series, featuring Crisis Shot, Lethal Target and Cold Aim. Additionally she has also penned five stand alone novels, Breach of Honor, Code of Courage, One Final Target, Every Deadly Suspicion and Edge of Truth.
www.janicecantore.com and connect with her on Facebook.
www.janicecantore.com and connect with her on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
September 22, 2021
Good!
As a retired police officer, author Janice Cantore brings a lot of credibility to her stories.
Main character Tess followed in her father's footsteps and served many years in the Long Beach Police Department. When a split decision on a police call puts Tess under scrutiny by a blogger and then the public at large, Tess feels compelled to pursue a new opportunity. She's cleared by a grand jury of having taken the right action in the situation, however, it's difficult to still be out of favor by some. She is glad to leave her ex-husband behind, but sad to leave her job and friends.
Tess begins over as police chief in a small Oregon town. Although a promotion, it's a huge adjustment to go from a big city police force to one with less than ten members.
When a local woman goes missing, Tess' skills are put to the test.
Engaging story line and characters. The canine character was a favorite. Also, the character that changed from putting up roadblocks and not supporting Tess in her new role to being supportive. I loved that Tess reflected on lesson's from her dad as she worked. For example, "It's always too soon to quit".
I enjoyed this novel even more than the first one I read (2021 release Breach of Honor). Look forward to continuing the series and seeing what happens for Tess and her small town.
As a retired police officer, author Janice Cantore brings a lot of credibility to her stories.
Main character Tess followed in her father's footsteps and served many years in the Long Beach Police Department. When a split decision on a police call puts Tess under scrutiny by a blogger and then the public at large, Tess feels compelled to pursue a new opportunity. She's cleared by a grand jury of having taken the right action in the situation, however, it's difficult to still be out of favor by some. She is glad to leave her ex-husband behind, but sad to leave her job and friends.
Tess begins over as police chief in a small Oregon town. Although a promotion, it's a huge adjustment to go from a big city police force to one with less than ten members.
When a local woman goes missing, Tess' skills are put to the test.
Engaging story line and characters. The canine character was a favorite. Also, the character that changed from putting up roadblocks and not supporting Tess in her new role to being supportive. I loved that Tess reflected on lesson's from her dad as she worked. For example, "It's always too soon to quit".
I enjoyed this novel even more than the first one I read (2021 release Breach of Honor). Look forward to continuing the series and seeing what happens for Tess and her small town.
July 10, 2022
I picked up an audible copy through Audible Plus and really enjoyed my 're-read'. I think the author's law enforcement career makes a huge difference in how she writes suspense and I like her honest portrayal of both the good and the bad in policing. In this early series (it's her second) the author draws out both romance and faith threads through the entire series so this first book is just laying the groundwork for both.
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Cantore addresses some tough subject matter in this riveting pager-turning suspense. Love the candor and expertise that comes from her 22 year career in law enforcement. That insider's knowledge brings an authenticity to the policing scenes that I found fascinating.
Tess is a third generation police officer. It's the family business and she's as dedicated as they come. And then a life-altering decision changes everything. Her hopes for the future are dashed and she finds herself pushed into an undesirable career shift. Sure, she's made Police Chief -- but it's in a Mayberry kind of town with a force totaling eight officers.
Faced with prejudice and resistance both inside the presinct and out, Tess struggles to make the transition easier for everyone -- including herself. Then a murder and a missing persons report generates a complicated investigation that will either make or break the new police chief.
A gripping police procedural kind of suspense that held me captive to the very last page.
---
Cantore addresses some tough subject matter in this riveting pager-turning suspense. Love the candor and expertise that comes from her 22 year career in law enforcement. That insider's knowledge brings an authenticity to the policing scenes that I found fascinating.
Tess is a third generation police officer. It's the family business and she's as dedicated as they come. And then a life-altering decision changes everything. Her hopes for the future are dashed and she finds herself pushed into an undesirable career shift. Sure, she's made Police Chief -- but it's in a Mayberry kind of town with a force totaling eight officers.
Faced with prejudice and resistance both inside the presinct and out, Tess struggles to make the transition easier for everyone -- including herself. Then a murder and a missing persons report generates a complicated investigation that will either make or break the new police chief.
A gripping police procedural kind of suspense that held me captive to the very last page.
September 7, 2017
3.5 Stars!
This is the fourth book by this author that I've read and I enjoyed it!
I liked main character Tess very much, and the message of trusting God and supporting law enforcement was powerful, and be sure to read the author's note at the back of the book!
This book definitely held my attention though I didn't enjoy it as much as some of this author's other books as I felt that in my opinion this one didn't have as much suspense throughout as I'm used to from this author's books, I loved the ending and the pace of the last fifty pages or so was so crazy that the pages just seemed to fly, which I loved!
I loved that Crisis Shot was set in a small town. I loved the dog in this one as well as Tess and several of the secondary characters, so I am looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book of the series.
Overall, while Crisis Shot did not become a favorite I still enjoyed it and highly recommend it!
I received this book from the publisher. No review required. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
This is the fourth book by this author that I've read and I enjoyed it!
I liked main character Tess very much, and the message of trusting God and supporting law enforcement was powerful, and be sure to read the author's note at the back of the book!
This book definitely held my attention though I didn't enjoy it as much as some of this author's other books as I felt that in my opinion this one didn't have as much suspense throughout as I'm used to from this author's books, I loved the ending and the pace of the last fifty pages or so was so crazy that the pages just seemed to fly, which I loved!
I loved that Crisis Shot was set in a small town. I loved the dog in this one as well as Tess and several of the secondary characters, so I am looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book of the series.
Overall, while Crisis Shot did not become a favorite I still enjoyed it and highly recommend it!
I received this book from the publisher. No review required. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
November 14, 2019
I find it hard to say wether I give this book 3 or 4 stars. I liked the story really much. It is exciting from page one! I really felt sorry for Tess because she just did her work and she had to shoot a boy. She really had no choiche. But she has to quit her job and find another one. So it seems she can not follow her dreams. She finds a new job as a police officer in a really small town, but there she is not trusted by the people around her. Then there is a killing and her new friend Anna is missing. How does she have to cope with that? When she finally finds Anna, Tess is to late. Anna dies. Tess meets also Oliver, the husband of Anna. He believes in God and Tess is triggered by his faith. And that`s why I can not really choose between 3 or 4 stars. I was expecting Tess to at least being more interested in the faith of Oliver, but that doesn`t really happen. But there was a hint at the end of the book. Still two more books in the series, so who knows what will happen? I definitely want to read those
June 11, 2017
Crisis Shot is the first book in a new series by Janice Cantore. It is full of gripping suspense, and has a very real quality to the crime that hits home.
When Tess is involved with a police shooting, the fallout threatens to destroy the career she has worked so hard to build. Left with few options, she decides to leave Long Beach and apply for a position as Chief of Police in a small rural town in Oregon. In her first few weeks she faces much opposition, but she had the chance to prove herself when a man is murdered and the local pastor's wife goes missing.
Crisis Shot begins with the very topical and somewhat controversial police shooting of a young boy. It brings to light this story from the officer's perspective, in this case our main character Tess. So sad for the police offer, the young teenager and his family, and the wider community. Cantore makes it clear that, in this case, the officer was the in the right, but this certainly doesn't prevent the outpouring of grief and blame, exaggerated by the media. This is certainly a topical theme and I found it very poignant. I read these sections with a critical eye and I was also a little dubious about the way this part of the storyline was concluded. I understand that it is what was needed for the story, but I thought it did make simple what is, I'm sure, far more complicated and less clear cut. I could imagine that the way this story handles the topic of police shootings and positions the reader might be distasteful to some people. However, this plot line is really just the motivator for Tess to move to a new area and the crimes she investigates as the new police chief are the focus of the story.
Tess is an intriguing character. She is strong and determined, but also compassionate. She has a long list of rules that govern her police work, something she learnt from her father. She wants to prove herself in her new role, perhaps even quiet her own doubts that have appeared since the shooting. The investigations are the focus of the story and I found them to be intriguing, with a nice balance between good detective work and high-tension action. I did find that it sometimes got a bit distracting with the detailed descriptions of town landmarks or history, stuff I really wasn't interested in. However, the rest of the writing was captivating and the action was fast-paced.
There is just a hint of romance in this story. Tess is attracted to the deputy sheriff, but neither she nor the deputy, Steve Logan, make any moves. If the series continues to follow Tess, then I believe there will be plenty of opportunity for this romance to develop, along with Tess's continuing questions about faith and God. Something to look forward to. Overall, Crisis Shot was an entertaining novel, with a strong focus on mystery and milder investigation.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library.
When Tess is involved with a police shooting, the fallout threatens to destroy the career she has worked so hard to build. Left with few options, she decides to leave Long Beach and apply for a position as Chief of Police in a small rural town in Oregon. In her first few weeks she faces much opposition, but she had the chance to prove herself when a man is murdered and the local pastor's wife goes missing.
Crisis Shot begins with the very topical and somewhat controversial police shooting of a young boy. It brings to light this story from the officer's perspective, in this case our main character Tess. So sad for the police offer, the young teenager and his family, and the wider community. Cantore makes it clear that, in this case, the officer was the in the right, but this certainly doesn't prevent the outpouring of grief and blame, exaggerated by the media. This is certainly a topical theme and I found it very poignant. I read these sections with a critical eye and I was also a little dubious about the way this part of the storyline was concluded. I understand that it is what was needed for the story, but I thought it did make simple what is, I'm sure, far more complicated and less clear cut. I could imagine that the way this story handles the topic of police shootings and positions the reader might be distasteful to some people. However, this plot line is really just the motivator for Tess to move to a new area and the crimes she investigates as the new police chief are the focus of the story.
Tess is an intriguing character. She is strong and determined, but also compassionate. She has a long list of rules that govern her police work, something she learnt from her father. She wants to prove herself in her new role, perhaps even quiet her own doubts that have appeared since the shooting. The investigations are the focus of the story and I found them to be intriguing, with a nice balance between good detective work and high-tension action. I did find that it sometimes got a bit distracting with the detailed descriptions of town landmarks or history, stuff I really wasn't interested in. However, the rest of the writing was captivating and the action was fast-paced.
There is just a hint of romance in this story. Tess is attracted to the deputy sheriff, but neither she nor the deputy, Steve Logan, make any moves. If the series continues to follow Tess, then I believe there will be plenty of opportunity for this romance to develop, along with Tess's continuing questions about faith and God. Something to look forward to. Overall, Crisis Shot was an entertaining novel, with a strong focus on mystery and milder investigation.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library.
October 9, 2017
I really enjoyed this novel that feels ripped from the headlines. It has a great blend of mystery and romance. Definitely kept me engaged.
August 25, 2017
This was an excellent start to the author's new series. Tess O'Rourke was a Long Beach police officer. She loved her job, never encountered any serious problems until the day she shot an unarmed teenager. While no charges were filed against her, consequences caused her to apply for the chief of police position in Rogue Hollow, Oregon. Although she was met with some opposition when hired, she was slowly coming to know the people and becoming accustomed to life in a smaller town.
When a murder takes place and a local pastor's wife goes missing, Tess has her hands full. The mayor is constantly on her case, wanting to bring in outside help. One of her officers seems to have a rather large chip on his shoulder. And the woman missing just happened to be the one true friend Tess had made since arriving in Rogue's Hollow.
Everything leads from one dead end to another until Tess discovers there is a possible witness to the crime. A woman named Tilly, who has some serious mental issues. Knowing Tilly's testimony would never hold up in a court of law, it's still up to Tess to find Tilly and hear just how much she knows. Then maybe Tess will know just how much she can prove.
An interesting plot, a bevy of characters to get acquainted with, and a good mystery to solve, combine to make this a really enjoyable read. I especially liked Tess. She'd been through a lot but kept pushing on, refusing to give up no matter the opposition against her. She was determined to solve the murder and find her friend even when people seemed bent on reminding her of her past. She does find an ally and a friend in Steve Logan, who could possibly be a love interest at some point during the series. I'm looking forward to the next book when it comes out.
When a murder takes place and a local pastor's wife goes missing, Tess has her hands full. The mayor is constantly on her case, wanting to bring in outside help. One of her officers seems to have a rather large chip on his shoulder. And the woman missing just happened to be the one true friend Tess had made since arriving in Rogue's Hollow.
Everything leads from one dead end to another until Tess discovers there is a possible witness to the crime. A woman named Tilly, who has some serious mental issues. Knowing Tilly's testimony would never hold up in a court of law, it's still up to Tess to find Tilly and hear just how much she knows. Then maybe Tess will know just how much she can prove.
An interesting plot, a bevy of characters to get acquainted with, and a good mystery to solve, combine to make this a really enjoyable read. I especially liked Tess. She'd been through a lot but kept pushing on, refusing to give up no matter the opposition against her. She was determined to solve the murder and find her friend even when people seemed bent on reminding her of her past. She does find an ally and a friend in Steve Logan, who could possibly be a love interest at some point during the series. I'm looking forward to the next book when it comes out.
August 31, 2017
3.5 stars. I always enjoy a Janice Cantore story for its accuracy. Having been a cop herself, I can know her books will portray police life as it is. Crisis Shot is no exception. Tess becomes police chief in a small Oregon town after practically being chased out of LA for shooting and killing a teen in the line of duty. She's been exonerated, but it still haunts her. A change of pace is just what she needs. At first Rogue's Hollow gives her just that. But soon a murder and a missing woman consume Tess, and it's a race against time to catch the killer. I'm a big fan of suspense, especially featuring cops, but the pace seemed a little bit slow. If would be better classified police drama.
November 5, 2022
Slow to start, but then it was enjoyable!
August 29, 2017
This book feels so relevant…like it could be coming right off the television news. When Tess, a policewoman, kills a boy bent on killing her and another cop, a blogger hounds her relentlessly until she is forced to find work elsewhere. But murder follows her to her new town and soon she’s embroiled in another situation that could end her career.
Crisis Shot compellingly shows that social media doesn’t work by the same principle of “innocent until proven guilty.” Lives are forever changed and sometimes destroyed when words and anger run unchecked. It’s very frustrating and Tess experiences this in a personal way.
I enjoyed the story and the relationships between people in the small town. However, I felt there was a hint of romance that didn’t really have any substance behind it. That was the only part that felt a little forced to me. I got caught up in the mystery and enjoyed trying to solve it on my own. There were a few surprising twists. It was a good read.
Thank you to Tyndale House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Crisis Shot compellingly shows that social media doesn’t work by the same principle of “innocent until proven guilty.” Lives are forever changed and sometimes destroyed when words and anger run unchecked. It’s very frustrating and Tess experiences this in a personal way.
I enjoyed the story and the relationships between people in the small town. However, I felt there was a hint of romance that didn’t really have any substance behind it. That was the only part that felt a little forced to me. I got caught up in the mystery and enjoyed trying to solve it on my own. There were a few surprising twists. It was a good read.
Thank you to Tyndale House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
September 7, 2017
You can see my "2 Minute Review" at: https://youtu.be/Ci0_gCUlzpc
This is my first book by this author and I liked her writing style and the topic. It's one of those "Ripped from the headlines" type of story. Strong story, stronger characters.
I really liked Tess because she is a fighter. I also respected her when she realizes she is fighting a losing battle after the shooting. I admired her tenacity as she takes on the role as the first female chief of police in a small community in Oregon.
The story itself is excellent. Characters to love and characters to not care for. The author also allowed the reader to try and solve the case along the way. Something I also appreciate. There were some "gotcha" moments at the end. Thankfully, this appears to be a book 1 in a new series, because there were a lot of unanswered questions at the end.
Disclaimer: I did receive a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, I was not required to give a review and the opinions here are my own.
This is my first book by this author and I liked her writing style and the topic. It's one of those "Ripped from the headlines" type of story. Strong story, stronger characters.
I really liked Tess because she is a fighter. I also respected her when she realizes she is fighting a losing battle after the shooting. I admired her tenacity as she takes on the role as the first female chief of police in a small community in Oregon.
The story itself is excellent. Characters to love and characters to not care for. The author also allowed the reader to try and solve the case along the way. Something I also appreciate. There were some "gotcha" moments at the end. Thankfully, this appears to be a book 1 in a new series, because there were a lot of unanswered questions at the end.
Disclaimer: I did receive a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, I was not required to give a review and the opinions here are my own.
August 13, 2021
New to me author Janice Cantore. Good writing and consistent in mystery and suspense; very little if any drag.
I felt the author did a great job keeping the killer unknown to the reader and that part came together very well.
I just wish the obvious future love interest wasn’t someone struggling with a tragedy. It seems so disrespectful to the love and grief.
Very good faith element all the way through. One character struggling with God because of her father's murder, but several characters share their trust and love for the Lord despite the circumstances. Well done.
I felt the author did a great job keeping the killer unknown to the reader and that part came together very well.
I just wish the obvious future love interest wasn’t someone struggling with a tragedy. It seems so disrespectful to the love and grief.
Very good faith element all the way through. One character struggling with God because of her father's murder, but several characters share their trust and love for the Lord despite the circumstances. Well done.
did-not-finish
August 3, 2018I really enjoyed Cantore's Cold Case Justice series and was looking forward to this one, but I just couldn't get into it. I found myself not wanting to read. It felt more about the protagonist not wanting to be at her new job than anything else. Just felt repetitive. I made it to page 198 before I realized figuring out the murder was not worth my time. Will probably try another series of Cantore's someday.
June 26, 2019
Author Janice Cantore creates an authentic and realistic suspense novel that deals with issues relevant in today’s society. Crisis Shot is perfect for fans of police suspense who prefer little to no romance. I look forward to the next book in the series.
October 13, 2017
Crisis Shot by Janice Cantore
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
____________________________________________________________
Story Notes
Janice Cantore begins her new In the Line of Duty series with a relevant and carefully developed story that shows that this series is one that is certainly not to be missed.
Janice Cantore is a retired Long Beach Police officer who has created a wonderful second career as a police/crime author. I have enjoyed reading her Pacific Coast Justice Series and was excited to see she has begun another – using the city in which she served for over 20 years as the beginning backdrop for the series. This fictional account of a fatal police necessitated shooting shows a real truth that is often buried by the media outbursts for supposed police brutality: that there is more than one victim in a necessitated shooting. Tess O’Rourke is a Commander on the Long Beach Police force who responds to a call for help from a fellow officer – a call that will totally change her life. Tess finds her fellow officer on the ground with three young black men standing over him, one of which tries to grab the downed officers gun, leaving Tess with no choice to shoot the young man in an effort to defend herself. With no witnesses besides herself (the other two young men fled at the sight of her), Tess finds herself caught in the whirlwind of negative press, headed by a blogger named Hector Connor-Ruiz who has a great dislike for the police. And although she is cleared by both evidence and a grand jury inquiry, Connor-Ruiz keeps the public crying out for Tess’s badge for the supposed wrongful death. Finding she has no other choice, Tess sends out applications for a position on another force. She is offered the Chief of Police in the Oregon town of Rogues Hollow and decides this will give her a chance to get away from the bad press and, further give her her long dreamed of position as Chief of Police – even if it is in a small town. But Tess will have to fight small town prejudices and her own staff to prove that she is there to do her job to the best of her abilities no matter how she was painted by the press in Long Beach. She does find one ally in Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Logan who is willing to give Tess a chance to do the job right. And when Rogue’s Hollow is shocked by the first murder and suspicious disappearance in recent history, Tess will need all the help she can get. With the mayor breathing down her neck for progress, the local businessmen scoffing at her ability to solve the case, and Tess’s personal connection to the case there are multiple reasons to solve this case quickly. Tess’s other new allies in Rogue’s Hollow are Pastor Oliver Macpherson and his wife, Anna, both of whom have welcomed Tess and are seeking to share their faith with her. And it will be Anna who mysteriously disappears, followed by the discovery of the murder of her cousin, Glen, a former drug dealer/user, that make this case personal and high priority for Tess. Tess will find that there are many secrets to be found, even in this small town, and that crime will eventually effect everyone. But her determination to see this case through, find Anna, and arrest those responsible for the crimes will gain her the support she needs from the town that was reluctant to welcome her in. There were many threads in this book that Ms. Cantore had to be careful not to allow to be lost in the tangle of the story’s web and she handled that pressure well. I could tell fairly quickly that this book was written by someone with a good working knowledge of police procedure and that gave the book an edge that others might lack. I can honestly say that this book presented a different way of telling a story, not one that was bad, merely different in the fact that Ms. Cantore did not sort out all the details of Tess’s life and faith with this first book. I find that approach refreshing and more real than others that try to tie everything up nicely before the last page. People are not going to come to faith in Christ just because someone tells them about Him once; rather it takes time for them to lay aside all their hurt and assumptions so they can honestly open their hearts to His love and mercy. And people who have been burned badly by love before do not immediately jump into a new relationship with the first person they feel attraction to; rather they need time to discover if they can trust that person with their friendship and then move to something deeper if there is common interest. So Ms. Cantore set up her series in a wonderful and honest way that I believe will make it a success. She crafted a well developed story with lots of mystery and suspense and kept the door open for the story to flow well into the next. I am very excited to see where this series will go and how Tess will find a way to be “at home” in Rogues Hollow. I will most certainly recommend this book to others and am pleased to add the copy I was provided with to my bookshelves.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation from Tyndale House for this review.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
____________________________________________________________
Story Notes
Janice Cantore begins her new In the Line of Duty series with a relevant and carefully developed story that shows that this series is one that is certainly not to be missed.
Janice Cantore is a retired Long Beach Police officer who has created a wonderful second career as a police/crime author. I have enjoyed reading her Pacific Coast Justice Series and was excited to see she has begun another – using the city in which she served for over 20 years as the beginning backdrop for the series. This fictional account of a fatal police necessitated shooting shows a real truth that is often buried by the media outbursts for supposed police brutality: that there is more than one victim in a necessitated shooting. Tess O’Rourke is a Commander on the Long Beach Police force who responds to a call for help from a fellow officer – a call that will totally change her life. Tess finds her fellow officer on the ground with three young black men standing over him, one of which tries to grab the downed officers gun, leaving Tess with no choice to shoot the young man in an effort to defend herself. With no witnesses besides herself (the other two young men fled at the sight of her), Tess finds herself caught in the whirlwind of negative press, headed by a blogger named Hector Connor-Ruiz who has a great dislike for the police. And although she is cleared by both evidence and a grand jury inquiry, Connor-Ruiz keeps the public crying out for Tess’s badge for the supposed wrongful death. Finding she has no other choice, Tess sends out applications for a position on another force. She is offered the Chief of Police in the Oregon town of Rogues Hollow and decides this will give her a chance to get away from the bad press and, further give her her long dreamed of position as Chief of Police – even if it is in a small town. But Tess will have to fight small town prejudices and her own staff to prove that she is there to do her job to the best of her abilities no matter how she was painted by the press in Long Beach. She does find one ally in Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Logan who is willing to give Tess a chance to do the job right. And when Rogue’s Hollow is shocked by the first murder and suspicious disappearance in recent history, Tess will need all the help she can get. With the mayor breathing down her neck for progress, the local businessmen scoffing at her ability to solve the case, and Tess’s personal connection to the case there are multiple reasons to solve this case quickly. Tess’s other new allies in Rogue’s Hollow are Pastor Oliver Macpherson and his wife, Anna, both of whom have welcomed Tess and are seeking to share their faith with her. And it will be Anna who mysteriously disappears, followed by the discovery of the murder of her cousin, Glen, a former drug dealer/user, that make this case personal and high priority for Tess. Tess will find that there are many secrets to be found, even in this small town, and that crime will eventually effect everyone. But her determination to see this case through, find Anna, and arrest those responsible for the crimes will gain her the support she needs from the town that was reluctant to welcome her in. There were many threads in this book that Ms. Cantore had to be careful not to allow to be lost in the tangle of the story’s web and she handled that pressure well. I could tell fairly quickly that this book was written by someone with a good working knowledge of police procedure and that gave the book an edge that others might lack. I can honestly say that this book presented a different way of telling a story, not one that was bad, merely different in the fact that Ms. Cantore did not sort out all the details of Tess’s life and faith with this first book. I find that approach refreshing and more real than others that try to tie everything up nicely before the last page. People are not going to come to faith in Christ just because someone tells them about Him once; rather it takes time for them to lay aside all their hurt and assumptions so they can honestly open their hearts to His love and mercy. And people who have been burned badly by love before do not immediately jump into a new relationship with the first person they feel attraction to; rather they need time to discover if they can trust that person with their friendship and then move to something deeper if there is common interest. So Ms. Cantore set up her series in a wonderful and honest way that I believe will make it a success. She crafted a well developed story with lots of mystery and suspense and kept the door open for the story to flow well into the next. I am very excited to see where this series will go and how Tess will find a way to be “at home” in Rogues Hollow. I will most certainly recommend this book to others and am pleased to add the copy I was provided with to my bookshelves.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation from Tyndale House for this review.
September 13, 2017
3.5 stars
I enjoy Janice Cantore's writings because she has been an actual cop and knows what goes on behind the scenes, which she does well at bringing into her fiction stories. So when I heard that Cantore was writing a new series, I got excited. I enjoy a good mystery with a murderer and the hunt for the killer as the story moves along.
Cantore really does jump right in and include the reader in the drama. I never once doubted anything that Cantore has written about the work of the police work. She writes from experience and allows her cop characters to jump off the page with their lives' work. I could picture the setting of Rogue Hollow and the rustic backwoods small town in the northern part of Oregon. While the change in scenery is hard on Tess since she comes from South Beach, California, Cantore does a good job at allowing me to see and understand the surrounding characters feelings of this outsider.
As for the character of Tess, I felt bad for her. She was doing her job and had to move in order to keep face and make the public in California happy. The story could have been ripped from the headlines, especially with all the stories of the police injustice today. Tess moved without really any complaint and allowed herself to take over another police force, knowing she didn't feel right, but she loved her career choice, so she did it willing.
At the end of the first book, there really isn't any romance that stands out to satisfy those romance needing readers. But . . . there might be two guys that could stand out as a potential romance in the future. I have to keep reading to find out if Cantore allows Tess to find romance in this series.
The plot. The reason I am reading the book in the first place. While I have read Cantore's stories before, so I had a good idea of how she writes and creates her stories, Crisis Shot is a lot more tame and laid back from her normal stories. In Crisis Shot, it takes a while to get to the murder of the story. While most suspense stories have the cop in danger and running for their life, Cantore doesn't write Tess as being threaten at all. Her life moves along through the interviews without once someone trying to stop her. Crisis Shot felt more like a pre-curser to the rest of the story. The beginning to the drama. I wanted more and expected more from Cantore.
Even though this novel didn't hit it out of the park for me, some other fans of romantic suspense or suspense in general might enjoy this novel. Fans of Christy Barritt, Irene Hannon, and Colleen Coble might enjoy Crisis Shot. I'm not going to write off Cantore all together; I will still look forward to her next book.
I received a complimentary copy of Crisis Shot by Janice Cantore from Tyndale Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I enjoy Janice Cantore's writings because she has been an actual cop and knows what goes on behind the scenes, which she does well at bringing into her fiction stories. So when I heard that Cantore was writing a new series, I got excited. I enjoy a good mystery with a murderer and the hunt for the killer as the story moves along.
Cantore really does jump right in and include the reader in the drama. I never once doubted anything that Cantore has written about the work of the police work. She writes from experience and allows her cop characters to jump off the page with their lives' work. I could picture the setting of Rogue Hollow and the rustic backwoods small town in the northern part of Oregon. While the change in scenery is hard on Tess since she comes from South Beach, California, Cantore does a good job at allowing me to see and understand the surrounding characters feelings of this outsider.
As for the character of Tess, I felt bad for her. She was doing her job and had to move in order to keep face and make the public in California happy. The story could have been ripped from the headlines, especially with all the stories of the police injustice today. Tess moved without really any complaint and allowed herself to take over another police force, knowing she didn't feel right, but she loved her career choice, so she did it willing.
At the end of the first book, there really isn't any romance that stands out to satisfy those romance needing readers. But . . . there might be two guys that could stand out as a potential romance in the future. I have to keep reading to find out if Cantore allows Tess to find romance in this series.
The plot. The reason I am reading the book in the first place. While I have read Cantore's stories before, so I had a good idea of how she writes and creates her stories, Crisis Shot is a lot more tame and laid back from her normal stories. In Crisis Shot, it takes a while to get to the murder of the story. While most suspense stories have the cop in danger and running for their life, Cantore doesn't write Tess as being threaten at all. Her life moves along through the interviews without once someone trying to stop her. Crisis Shot felt more like a pre-curser to the rest of the story. The beginning to the drama. I wanted more and expected more from Cantore.
Even though this novel didn't hit it out of the park for me, some other fans of romantic suspense or suspense in general might enjoy this novel. Fans of Christy Barritt, Irene Hannon, and Colleen Coble might enjoy Crisis Shot. I'm not going to write off Cantore all together; I will still look forward to her next book.
I received a complimentary copy of Crisis Shot by Janice Cantore from Tyndale Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
August 18, 2017
I have yet to be disappointed in a Janice Cantore book, and was happy to see a new series starting by her. The fact that she is a former police officer makes her books all the more interesting, as she knows police work and knows police work and procedure.
This book starts out with a look at what it is like for police officers when a justified shooting is declared unjustified by the public. There has been a lot of hatred towards the police in real life in a couple of such cases, so it it was interesting to see a police officer's take on that, even in a fictional story.
As with her other novels, Cantore has come up with some great characters, plot, and setting. Romance is rarely center stage in her novels, and she tends to build up to it all through a series instead of having the couple fall in love and be married at the end of the book..... not that I am knocking authors who do that.
Crisis Shot is a book where you have a hard time deciding who the bad guy/guys are. Cantore did a great job of writing a suspenseful novel, and keeping her bad guys' identities a secret to the reader. There is a lot of suspense, police/detective work, and tense situations, all opportunities to test the new police chief.
I read the book in one evening. It is the kind of book you don't want to put down, so I didn't. I had the time to read, so I read through to the great and climatic end. It was definitely an enjoyable read, and the author can add another great novel to her author resume'.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 31, 2017
Author Janice Cantore’s many years in law enforcement add great authenticity and an insider’s eye for detail to her storytelling. “Crisis Shot”, Book One in her “The Line of Duty” series is a compelling romantic suspense tale featuring an appealing heroine. When a tragedy in the line of duty ends Tess O’Rourke’s dream of becoming the first female chief of police in Long Beach, California, she relocates to the small town of Rogue’s Hollow, Oregon. Serving as chief of police of the small community is an adjustment to say the least, but small towns often have big secrets which lead to big trouble, and Tess soon has her hands full of problems. She finds a friend in sheriff’s deputy Steve Logan, and he proves to be a much-needed ally with finding a missing person and solving a murder. Tess has always had her own rules regarding not becoming involved with someone with whom she works. Will she break the rules this time? Faith, courage, and a dedication to law enforcement, along with trust, will be needed to bring all matters to right—can Tess and Steve find the strength of conviction to see justice served? I highly recommend other works and series by Janice Cantore.
Book Copy Gratis Tyndale Blog Network
Book Copy Gratis Tyndale Blog Network
May 24, 2017
First, a disclaimer. I don't normally read crime dramas so I tend to review them through a literary eye. I enjoyed the slow build of the story line, and character development of the principal names. I thought Cantore had taken quite a detour from the main plot line toward the end, but the denouement was complete in every detail.
Tess O'Rourke is a believable character, who isn't written like a woman trying to be a police chief. She acts like a professional police chief should act, while remaining fully human. This is because of the inherent authenticity of the author's first-hand experience in uniform, which is invaluable. Cantore teaches the lay person about terms and procedures without being preachy or obvious.
I enjoy being able to read a book on crimes like this one that is genuine, but doesn't spell out every gruesome detail. That's what reader imaginations are for. I also enjoyed the refreshing fact that Tess and Officer Logan didn't jump in the sack the moment their hormones reacted. Anticipation.
There are a lot of names in this story. Maybe it's my age or the genre, but I had a little trouble keeping all the peripheral characters straight, though not the main characters.
Crisis Shot was that much more enjoyable for me because I'm very familiar with the location used. Most of the names/places are real. A great read to anticipate for this fall!
Tess O'Rourke is a believable character, who isn't written like a woman trying to be a police chief. She acts like a professional police chief should act, while remaining fully human. This is because of the inherent authenticity of the author's first-hand experience in uniform, which is invaluable. Cantore teaches the lay person about terms and procedures without being preachy or obvious.
I enjoy being able to read a book on crimes like this one that is genuine, but doesn't spell out every gruesome detail. That's what reader imaginations are for. I also enjoyed the refreshing fact that Tess and Officer Logan didn't jump in the sack the moment their hormones reacted. Anticipation.
There are a lot of names in this story. Maybe it's my age or the genre, but I had a little trouble keeping all the peripheral characters straight, though not the main characters.
Crisis Shot was that much more enjoyable for me because I'm very familiar with the location used. Most of the names/places are real. A great read to anticipate for this fall!
June 16, 2019
Excellent plot and outstanding illustration of real life issues encountered by law enforcement officers! I listened to this book on audio, and selected it under the heading of "romance" books. Be warned, however, it's not a romance. While there is a handsome, hunky deputy sheriff in the mix, there is only a hint of a romance yet to come that doesn't play out on the pages. That said, the plot is outstanding, the crimes logically solved, and the heroine, Tess, is a character anyone would like. The author's law enforcement background is obvious in her attention to detail and in the way the heroine deals with every situation. While there is a religious theme in the background of the story, do not let that put you off if reading Christian stories is not your thing. It was just the right amount. An enjoyable read for me!
February 27, 2020
Good Book
This book started a little slow (don't know if was just me or not). However it started picking up and getting better and better. It had lots of twists and suspense and kept me guessing right up to the end. Anxious for the "rest of the story" .
This book started a little slow (don't know if was just me or not). However it started picking up and getting better and better. It had lots of twists and suspense and kept me guessing right up to the end. Anxious for the "rest of the story" .
April 28, 2019
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I'm excited to read more by her! So happy when I find new great authors.
September 20, 2017
About the Book:
Tess O'Rourke, police officer for the Long Beach PD, finds herself in hot water after shooting an unarmed teenager in a suspected gang-related attack on another officer. Although she is cleared of wrongdoing, public opinion in Long Beach has turned against Tess. Consequently, she has no choice but to leave California. After taking a job for small-town Rogue's Hollow, Tess tries to piece back together her professional life but finds opposition in her new police officers and townspeople, too. Tess's reputation and leadership are put to the test after a local drifter is murdered and the local pastor's wife- also cousin to the murdered man- turns up missing. Tess has to work harder than ever to gain the trust of her police force, calm the fears of the residents of Rogue's Hollow, and stop a murderer on the loose before he can kill again.
My Thoughts:
Crisis Shot seemed to have potential, but I just had trouble not only following the plot but also just plain getting into the story. Details that I'm sure were meant to create suspense just ended up being dizzying to me as Tess seemed to go back and forth on trying to figure out evidence. One chapter she confidently took a direction, and a few chapters later it seemed she was totally up in the air following rabbit trails. Characters and details in some instances seemed to be completely irrelevant to the plot which was just frustrating. I was surprised by who Glenn's killer was, but even so, was left scratching my head at how in the world the killer (and his other crimes) connected at all to Glenn and Anna! Lastly, the attempt at creating a romance between Tess and Steve just didn't cut it. Not only did Steve never show any romantic interest in Tess (with the exception of saying she had a pretty smile), the attraction Tess had for him seemed very school-girl crush-ish. Disappointed because this story could have been so much better, but the result was just sloppy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. However, this review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book.
Tess O'Rourke, police officer for the Long Beach PD, finds herself in hot water after shooting an unarmed teenager in a suspected gang-related attack on another officer. Although she is cleared of wrongdoing, public opinion in Long Beach has turned against Tess. Consequently, she has no choice but to leave California. After taking a job for small-town Rogue's Hollow, Tess tries to piece back together her professional life but finds opposition in her new police officers and townspeople, too. Tess's reputation and leadership are put to the test after a local drifter is murdered and the local pastor's wife- also cousin to the murdered man- turns up missing. Tess has to work harder than ever to gain the trust of her police force, calm the fears of the residents of Rogue's Hollow, and stop a murderer on the loose before he can kill again.
My Thoughts:
Crisis Shot seemed to have potential, but I just had trouble not only following the plot but also just plain getting into the story. Details that I'm sure were meant to create suspense just ended up being dizzying to me as Tess seemed to go back and forth on trying to figure out evidence. One chapter she confidently took a direction, and a few chapters later it seemed she was totally up in the air following rabbit trails. Characters and details in some instances seemed to be completely irrelevant to the plot which was just frustrating. I was surprised by who Glenn's killer was, but even so, was left scratching my head at how in the world the killer (and his other crimes) connected at all to Glenn and Anna! Lastly, the attempt at creating a romance between Tess and Steve just didn't cut it. Not only did Steve never show any romantic interest in Tess (with the exception of saying she had a pretty smile), the attraction Tess had for him seemed very school-girl crush-ish. Disappointed because this story could have been so much better, but the result was just sloppy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. However, this review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book.
October 18, 2017
"She fired." (6)
A shot that changed the course for our main character, Tess O'Rourke in author Janice Cantore's latest release, Crisis Shot. It is also the first book in the new series, Line of Duty. Intense and mixed in with life's ultimate question of "why do God let bad things happened?" Crisis Shot hit all the right notes for a suspense thriller that includes a crime to be solved, but also the complexity of personalities and trials that is beyond our control.
"Either he's God over everything or he's God over nothing." (376)
Crisis Shot is the first novel of the author's I've read, and it definitely will not be my last. Suspense is one of those genres I love to read and am always amazed by authors' ability to keep it interesting. This story had it all and also gave us a little insight on the dynamics of the inner workings in the police force. I enjoyed the slow build in confidence of Tess' ability as police chief in a small town by the department as well as the town. Tess' ethics and professionalism gave the character strength, but also a great catalyst of the vulnerability of faith when faced with evil in her line of work. I love how the faith messaged tied into the story and the ultimate question of trust.
In all, Crisis Shot will satisfy any fan who enjoys a good story, but also appreciate a well tied in message.
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
A shot that changed the course for our main character, Tess O'Rourke in author Janice Cantore's latest release, Crisis Shot. It is also the first book in the new series, Line of Duty. Intense and mixed in with life's ultimate question of "why do God let bad things happened?" Crisis Shot hit all the right notes for a suspense thriller that includes a crime to be solved, but also the complexity of personalities and trials that is beyond our control.
"Either he's God over everything or he's God over nothing." (376)
Crisis Shot is the first novel of the author's I've read, and it definitely will not be my last. Suspense is one of those genres I love to read and am always amazed by authors' ability to keep it interesting. This story had it all and also gave us a little insight on the dynamics of the inner workings in the police force. I enjoyed the slow build in confidence of Tess' ability as police chief in a small town by the department as well as the town. Tess' ethics and professionalism gave the character strength, but also a great catalyst of the vulnerability of faith when faced with evil in her line of work. I love how the faith messaged tied into the story and the ultimate question of trust.
In all, Crisis Shot will satisfy any fan who enjoys a good story, but also appreciate a well tied in message.
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
September 12, 2017
I am not sure how I have been missing out, but I have never before read a book by Janice Cantore. However, that is going to change from here on in!
"Crisis Shot" was jam-packed full of action, filled with excellent police work and a sense of fighting for justice in the face of true adversity as Tess battles misunderstanding and misplaced criticism. The story held my interest from beginning to end, and I can admit that while I had a sense of who the perpetrator was, there were plenty of moments that kept me guessing and resulted in genuine surprise. Those are my favourite types of stories! Tess is one of those characters who you simply can't help but root for, and I enjoyed getting to know her over the course of the story. I'm not sure if she will again be starring the next book in the series, but I would be happy to witness Tess back in action, taking down the bad guys. The romance is handled with just the right touch, and I appreciated that Cantore doesn't make it the centre of the story, but allows things to develop naturally.
Cantore has offered up a well-written suspense novel that is sure to garner her new fans. I strongly recommend this novel for those readers looking for suspense, romance, and a book where good conquers evil. I award this novel 4 out of 5 stars. I am looking forward to what's to come next in the series!
An egalley has been provided courtesy of the publisher and netgalley for the purposes of this unbiased review.
"Crisis Shot" was jam-packed full of action, filled with excellent police work and a sense of fighting for justice in the face of true adversity as Tess battles misunderstanding and misplaced criticism. The story held my interest from beginning to end, and I can admit that while I had a sense of who the perpetrator was, there were plenty of moments that kept me guessing and resulted in genuine surprise. Those are my favourite types of stories! Tess is one of those characters who you simply can't help but root for, and I enjoyed getting to know her over the course of the story. I'm not sure if she will again be starring the next book in the series, but I would be happy to witness Tess back in action, taking down the bad guys. The romance is handled with just the right touch, and I appreciated that Cantore doesn't make it the centre of the story, but allows things to develop naturally.
Cantore has offered up a well-written suspense novel that is sure to garner her new fans. I strongly recommend this novel for those readers looking for suspense, romance, and a book where good conquers evil. I award this novel 4 out of 5 stars. I am looking forward to what's to come next in the series!
An egalley has been provided courtesy of the publisher and netgalley for the purposes of this unbiased review.
August 19, 2017
"Crisis Shot" is a Christian suspense novel. The two main characters were Tess, the new chief of police in the small town, and the pastor of the town. Logan, a sheriff's deputy, has caught Tess's romantic interest. However, in this book, he's basically a nice guy who backs her up but has very little "screen time."
Due to a controversial but justified shooting incident, Tess has to win over the people in this new, small town while solving a series of time-urgent crimes. She has to deal with a murder, a missing person, a runaway teen, a kidnapping, etc. The pastor and Logan support her, which helps get the cooperation of the locals.
Tess has worked Homicide in the past, so she followed up the available clues and tried to piece the puzzle together. Are some of the incidences connected and what's behind it all? The characters acted realistically, and I liked Tess's level head and competence.
Tess wondered why God saves some people but not others, and the pastor demonstrated his trust in God through his actions. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this engaging, suspenseful story.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
Due to a controversial but justified shooting incident, Tess has to win over the people in this new, small town while solving a series of time-urgent crimes. She has to deal with a murder, a missing person, a runaway teen, a kidnapping, etc. The pastor and Logan support her, which helps get the cooperation of the locals.
Tess has worked Homicide in the past, so she followed up the available clues and tried to piece the puzzle together. Are some of the incidences connected and what's behind it all? The characters acted realistically, and I liked Tess's level head and competence.
Tess wondered why God saves some people but not others, and the pastor demonstrated his trust in God through his actions. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this engaging, suspenseful story.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
October 1, 2017
Crisis Shot is well written - it keeps you interested - at least for the first couple of chapters that I read and then I stopped - this was categorized as a Christian book - well - this book swore within the first few chapters and then a couple of pages after that there she went again and swore - so being a Christian myself - that was the end of my reading - that was one thing my Father taught me - if there is swearing in something you read or watch - change the channel or change the book - in the Scriptures it talks about swearing and for you to avoid it and for you to not let foul language come out of your mouth. Col 3:8-10, I was honored to be able to read this book though. I received a copy from the Publisher and Netgalley; all the opinions expressed in this review are all my own
October 26, 2017
RT review will post after publication
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