Just before the K-9 training center explodes, reporter Heidi Jenks spots the bomber—and now he wants her dead. While military explosives expert First Lieutenant Nick Donovan doesn’t trust journalists, it’s his duty to protect Heidi. And with a killer circling closer, he and his bomb-sniffing K-9 are all that stands between Heidi and someone planning to silence her for good.
Lynette Eason grew up in Greenville, SC. She graduated from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, and then obtained her masters in education from Converse College. Author of twenty inspirational romantic suspense books, she is also a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA). In 1996, Lynette married "the boy next door" and now she and her husband and their two children make their home in Simpsonville, South Carolina."
Seriously, how can you not want to read a story with a bloodhound heroine named Annie? Doesn't that scream 'read me'? And isn't she a gorgeous girl? She could moonlight as a cover model. :-)
The two-legger heroine is pretty nifty too -- even if she can't sniff out explosives. Heidi has other talents -- like getting under Nick's skin. He's had a love/hate thing going on over Heidi for a while. He abhors journalists and he has a very good reason for feeling that way. But, he's also impressed with the heart and compassion he sees in Heidi's articles which doesn't jive with the Cruella DeVille journalist image he's been nurturing. Talk about conflicted!
When he's assigned protection duty, Nick suddenly finds himself all up close and personal with the one woman on base he absolutely doesn't want anything to do with. Me thinks he doth protest too much. Like his Gramps says: "Gotta find me a woman I don't like as much as you don't like that one." (p 78)
There is an unexpected playfulness about this romance which brings some levity to very dark times as the Red Rose Killer continues to elude capture while wreaking havoc in his wake. Book six in the Military K-9 Unit delivers page-turning suspense and toe-curling romance as the hunt for Boyd Sullivan becomes more desperate. I cannot wait to solve this mystery!!!!!!! Two months and counting and we'll finally have all the answers.
'Life comes with a guarantee of pain. It's how you deal with it that matters.'
Lynette Eason brings us the latest novel in the Military K-9 Unit book. Heidi Jenks, First Lieutenant on the Air Force base, is a reporter who has just spotted a bomber coming out of a training center. From then on, her life is in danger. Enter military explosives expert First Lieutenant Nick Donovan, who absolutely does not trust any journalists. He is assigned to protect Heidi. Nick's dog, Annie, is working overtime as well, trying to sniff out explosives before Heidi is taken out.
There is plenty of suspense here to satisfy every fan of Christian Romantic Suspense. And, I'd like to add this: during one short passage of this book, God really ministered to me in a difficult situation. I am so humbled and amazed when He does that. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
A terrifying explosion rocks the Military Working Dog Training Center. Medals are mysteriously disappearing on base, and an enigmatic serial killer is on the loose. In the sixth installment of the Military K-9 Unit series “Explosive Force,” we meet a rather unique dynamic duo: a charismatic and tenacious reporter, First Lieutenant Heidi Jenks, and a charming and dedicated dog handler, First Sergeant Nick Donovan with explosive detection bloodhound, Annie. When Heidi becomes the witness of the MWD Training Center bombing that injured a young dog handler, Bobby, her life and career take an explosive and deadly turn as she is put squarely in the crosshairs of the bomber.
An investigation begins in earnest, mobilizing Security Forces, the Office of Special Investigations and the Canyon Air Force Base K-9 Unit with First Sergeant Nick Donovan and MWD Annie combing the rubble for clues. They are led down a dark path with a relentless reporter trapped in a web of deception putting her in the line of fire. As the case unfolds, attempts on Heidi’s life force Nick to take drastic measures to protect her from becoming front-page news and a sad chapter as the War on Terror strikes dangerously close to home. Ironically, what begins as a partnership to uncover the truth, evolves into an unexpected romance fraught with peril and intrigue as the hottest story of Heidi’s life puts her and Nick in harm’s way.
This was an interesting story filled with human drama. Unfortunately, very little thought is given to MWD Annie and the emotional bond forged with her handler. The tense but cute relationship between Heidi and Nick is reminiscent of Major Tom Harrison and Casey Mullins in Terence Strong’s “The Tick Tock Man.” However, “Explosive Force” falls short in character development and editing. It was still a decent book.
I truly don't know how to rate this book, so I think I'll just go straight down the middle.
On the one hand, I loved the story. It was so engaging and suspenseful and made me feel like I had to keep reading to find out what happened right now. But at the same time, there was just something missing.
I feel entirely neutral towards Heidi and Nick. I don't dislike them, but I can't say I really like them all that much either. My favorite character was actually Nick's Gramps. Let's be real, he was iconic. Also, Nick and Heidi's relationship wasn't my favorite. There were times when it actually felt pretty cringe to me. The dialogue felt stiff to me at times. I just couldn't fully love it.
This is the first Lynette Eason book I've read, and I don't think it was the best one for me to start with. I didn't know this was part of a larger series in which each book is written by a different author. (While they are loosely connected, they can be read as standalones.) This makes me think that this wasn't entirely her story and her characters, so I didn't get the best introduction to her writing. I will definitely be trying more of her books in the future.
Annie, the military K-9 bloodhound on the cover was not the main character. She mostly rode along with her handler and given the task a few times of sniffing out bomb materials.
Her handler, Air Force First Lieutenant Nick Donovan was in the Office of Special Investigations who, for good reason, didn’t trust reporters. Heidi Jenks was also a First Lieutenant, but a reporter for the CAF news. A few bombings and break-ins somehow connected to Heidi Jenks had Nick taking over protective duty for this cute but slightly annoying reporter. Just what he needed...to spend time protecting someone he'll have difficulty trusting. Wellll, close missions of protection, along with trying to find a base thief, a bomber and a serial killer could create a bond and possibly a trusting relationship.
Not my favorite book by this author. The relationships seemed forced. Perhaps for a younger reader it would be very entertaining.
More and more people involved with the Red Rose killer, attacking the Canyon Air Force base. Heidi is one of the base reporters and is having a bad time. She is suspected of being the anonymous blogger that is relaying seemingly private information about the case and has been given minor assignments while another reporter receives better assignments.
When she becomes involved in crimes, first as a witness then as a target, Nick is assigned as her protection while also investigating the bombings with his trained bloodhound Annie.
Annie doesn't get enough mention in this story, in my opinion. Nick and Heidi find their way and solve a few puzzles - and crimes, and fall in love.
EXPLOSIVE FORCE by Lynette Eason is the sixth book in the Military K-9 Unit series. It’s the wonderfully written story of First Lieutenant Heidi Jenks, news reporter for CAF News on Canyon Air Force Base in the Hill Country of Texas.
Although the search is still on for the Red Rose Killer, Heidi is covering the break-ins that seem to revolve around the thief of military metals although collectibles and cash are often taken as well. While out on her job, she spots a suspicious character leaving a building. Just as he’s taking off a ski mask, he realizes that he has been seen by Heidi. After a moment hesitation, he runs off. Thinking it odd and after recent events, Heidi yells at a soldier exiting the same K9 training center to run as she does the same. Seconds later, there is an explosion within the building. The soldier she had warned, Airman Bobby Stevens, sustained injuries that sent him to the hospital. Heidi’s injures, although painful, weren’t as bad. Had she just seen the Red Rose Killer everyone was looking for?
First Lieutenant Nick Donovan, part of Explosive Ordinance Disposal unit, working with his K-9, a bloodhound named Annie, is one of the first on the scene. He has a distaste for reporters from an incident years ago involving his mother, so questioning Heidi automatically has his defenses up and distrusting her high on his list. Yes, he’d noticed her around base, but between his feelings towards reporters and rumors that she was the anonymous blogger leaking important details in the Red Rose Killer investigation, he is leery of anything she tells him. After Heidi is the recipient of one the infamous red roses, Base commander Lt General Nathan Hall tells Nick to take protective duty for Heidi’s safety. Nick must man up and forego his feelings and protect Heidi from all impending dangers. Spending time with her won’t be a chore if not for her occupation.
Heidi is of tough reporter stock and not one to forego her job because of a little danger slug her way. She’s also determined to prove she isn’t the blogger leaking information and to show she is a good and honest reporter with integrity. Her father’s quote keeps her moving forward, no matter how hard times get. - “Truth, baby girl. Nothing’s more important than exposing lies and bringing truth to light. Keep your focus where it should be. Don’t step on people to get to the top. Don’t excuse people who do wrong no matter who they are – and you’ll do just fine.” Then why is it so important that Nick believe her? Does she dare dream of the happily ever after that everyone around her seems to have found?
Can Nick get over events of the past and not paint all reporters with the same brush? Maybe he needs to remember - ““Life comes with a guarantee of pain. Its how you deal with it that matters.” Nick learns how decent and honest Heidi is through her words and actions, which makes his job to protect her all the more serious once personal feelings enter the picture. Does he even dare to think of opening himself up to someone else again and take the chance that history won’t repeat itself? Can he put something front and center in his life over catching the Red Rose Killer?
EXPLOSIVE FORCE is a fabulous inspirational romance that will have your quickly turning pages as Heidi and Nick struggle to find a mutual connection and see that justice is done. You will be shaking your head at their orneriness one minute. Then hoping they can work through their differences the next in order for them to see what is right in front of them. Love the way the Red Rose Killer is woven within the story keeping your hopes up that he will finally be caught and the K9’s found. At the same time, it doesn’t take away from the story developed in this book of the series making it definitely possible to be read as a standalone book. Definitely FIVE STARS for both book and author!
My review today is one the Love Inspired Suspense, Explosive Force. This is the sixth book in the continuity series Military K-9 Unit. I have really enjoyed this series and Lynette is one of my favorite authors. This story is well written, action packed, and full of faith. I know you are going to love it.
First Lieutenant Heidi Jenks is a news reporter for CAF News. She is upset about the stories she is being assigned. Most of them are just plain boring; like stolen medals. She would rather be out there working on the Red Rose Killer case. She just finished an interview at the church and was walking home. Speaking her thoughts into her voice activated recorder when she saw someone come out of the K-9 Training Center. The man wore a dark hoodie, he pulled it back and removed a ski mask, then looked right at her. His eyes locked on hers causing ice to flow through her veins, he turned and looked at the center and then took off. Another man came out the door; she yelled "Run Bobby " just as the building exploded. She had a feeling the man would be back, she had seen his face, this could be the biggest story she ever had.
First Lieutenant Nick Donovan and his partner Annie came on the scene. They were members of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit. They would have to wait awhile before they could investigate. Annie was an explosives detection dog. He was angry when he saw Heidi talking to one of the investigators. He had no use for reporters. She sure didn't waste any time, how did she hear about the explosion so quickly? Why did she look so disheveled? Annie alerted. He bent over to take a sample when Heidi started talking to him. He was shocked to find she was not only involved in the explosion but saw the bomber. As much as he hated reporters he felt he must keep her safe.
A struggle with a cold blooded killer. Can they stay one step ahead of this mad man? God has a plan for these two; a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan and not for evil.
Give him your heart and watch Him move in your mess.
Explosive Force by Lynette Eason is an exciting Christian contemporary suspense. It is part of the Military K9 Unit series but can be read as a stand-alone. I have not read the other books in the series that are by a variety of authors. The search is on for a killer but along the way there are shootings and explosions. Someone is out to silence a military reporter. Jealousy within the workplace means that trust is in short supply. The truth is buried as the lies rise to the surface. There are strong family ties within the military as sons and daughters continue the family lines in the same roles as their fathers and grandfathers. The dogs in the K9 unit are family and soldiers too. There is a strong bond between them and their handlers. There are some tight situations but faith and trust in God means “there’s always hope – even when the situation looks hopeless.” Explosive Force was a thrilling read and just perfect for an afternoon.
Military K-9 Unit #6—Lynette Eason. I really liked this fast-paced suspense. Boyd Sullivan,RRK, is still at large but he is only a minor character this time around. First Lieutenant Heidi Jenks, reporter for the base newspaper, witnesses the bombing of the training center. She can identify the bomber and she is in life-threatening situations from start to finish First Lieutenant Nick Donovan and his bomb sniffing partner Annie come to the rescue. Nick doesn’t trust reporters but his assignment is bodyguard to Heidi. They work together to find the bomber and a thief that has been terrorizing the base.
I really liked this story. Its a story about honesty and integrity. I really enjoyed Heidi's and Nick's story. There is alot of action in this story for there are 2 new things happening as well as the Red Rose killer. I love the 3 are woven together and its hard not to see them separately. I like how Nick gets to see that to Heidi integrity is an important part of reporting. I really enjoyed this book. I'm looking forward to the next book as we get closer to the end of the series and to see the final answer. Awesome book Lynette.
This is one of those books that was hard to put down. The action was intense. Suspense was good, and I loved the romance thrown in. Nick Donavan and his bomb sniffing dog Annie was called to investigate after a bomb went off on base. Nick normally doesn’t like reporters but when he meets Heidi Jenks his protective instincts kicked in. The bomber saw Heide right before the building exploded, and now she is a target. I loved how they worked together to find who the bomber was. Loved this book! This book is part of a series but reads as a standalone.
Continuing the Military K-9 Unit series, Lynette gives us an insight to hiding in plain sight. Military personnel B&E, stealing medals, cash and jewelry from fellow personnel. Base reporter is main character, as she tries to write Base news, but keeps getting knocked down, but she comes back fighting. Good read. Waiting on #7~
Wow it least in this book we got some answers to questions in the previous books. 😉😉 I will not be a spoiler and tell. Nick had a dislike for reporters, after what happened to his mother. Heidi didn't trust easily, but when her and Nick is thrown together they learn a lot about each other. This book has explosions, and attempted murder.
The story line was stronger and tense. The characters grabbed me with their determination to find the men who were blowing up the building, now if they could just find the Black Rose Killer everyone might just be able to get back to a normal life again, whatever that is.
I am thoroughly enjoying this K9 series. Lynette Eason always writes very suspenseful books. I like how in each book, the main characters have trauma in their past and the presemt drama forces them to confront their past by turning to God, in some cases offering forgiveness, and learning to trust again. These are things that so many people need to do--especially myself.
This was the first Love Inspired book that I’ve been able to get through in a long while. It was a pretty quick read. With that said, I really don’t care for these books. Thankfully, I only have one left on my physical TBR shelf. After that, I don’t plan to buy anymore Love Inspired books. They just aren’t quality reads, no matter who the author is.
this is a revitting story I could not put down, Heidi is a reporter, nick is an officer with a k9 dog. he does not trust her but she is in danger love the story, I have read all of the books in the series , if you like suspense and romance you have to read this story.
The elusive Red Rose Killer is still making life on Canyon Air Force Base tense. Heidi Jenks has her turn at being pursued by the bad guy or is it bad guy(s)? Another K-9 mystery to love.
Lynette Eason's Explosive Force is a real pageturner. She grabbed my attention from the first page with intense action. Heidi Jenks, reporter, finds herself in danger. 1st Lt. Nick Donavan, is to protect her even though he doesn't trust reporters. A must read.
You should probably read this in order for the series, but I did not. This is the only book if the series that I read, but was still able to enjoy it. Good clean romance.
Nick and his K9, Annie meet and fall in love with Heidi, a base reporter, while both are searching for answers to bombings, thefts and murder. They have many close calls but the peeps are caught, all but Sullivan. Great series.
This book is entertaining. Not super thrilling, but overall ok. I think that I enjoyed the characters more than the plot. The plot felt like there were too many threads competing for attention. Still enjoy Eason's work.
I love continuity series. I have especially liked the series with service dogs in them, both military and civilian. Lynette Eason is one of my favorite authors, so I grab any book she writes.