Deadly Christmas Duty

Covert Operatives #2

by Virginia Vaughan

This Christmas could be her last…

Unless Covert Operatives shield her

Prosecutor and single mom Melinda Steele thought her nightmare ended when her abusive husband died, but now someone wants her dead by Christmas. Navy SEAL turned security operative Noah Cason needs her to get justice in his sister’s disappearance, but first he’ll have to keep her alive. And his mission shifts from difficult to almost impossible when Melinda reveals who she suspects is really after her.

Genres: Love Inspired Suspense, Romance, Suspense, Christian Fiction, Christmas, Romantic Suspense

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published November 1, 2018

About the author

Award winning author Virginia Vaughan lives by the motto ‘It’s not hoarding if its books’. Always the kid with her nose stuck in a book, becoming a multi-published author hasn’t stopped Virginia from continuing to grow her own collection of favorite reads. Her family has refused to help her move anymore because of the sheer number boxes of books, but she’s no quitter. She’ll keep buying books and, the next time she moves, hire a moving van.

If you love stories where romance intersects danger and faith, subscribe to Virginia’s email list at https://bit.ly/3NYqzTl and be the first to know when a new story arrives.

Reviews

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whoa! Intense, fast-paced, shoulder-checking suspense makes Deadly Christmas Duty a page-turner.

Melinda has already lived through one horrific nightmare when she's plunged into another one. And who wouldn't want a former Navy SEAL on your side when your world implodes?! She quickly learns that Noah is someone she can count on -- just not with her heart.

Meanwhile, Noah doesn't want to be drawn into a relationship...he's mission minded -- find out what happened to his sister and make the perpetrator pay. But a simple visit to the prosecutor's office catapults him into a tangled web of danger and deceit. Phew! My brain is still zinging and my heart is still pounding...and a bit melty too. A satisfying thrill of a seasonal read!

[Books and Spoons · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the explosive start to the sweet and satisfying end, the story intrigued, allured, and entertained.
I thought I could just get a little sneak peak of the story one evening, and ended up devouring the book at one sitting. The story is just perfectly balanced between suspense, romantic relationship developing, and the characters growth as people and in their faith in God. The action is fierce and deadly, it is up close and personal, while the plot twists kept coming and switching the direction of the story. It is riveting and I absolutely loved it.
The romance has such a sweet, fragile adoration in it. While the feelings they have for each other develop fast, they have to learn to trust again and to dare to take the jump into the unknown - known as love. And with the history both Melinda Steele and Noah Cason have, that is a major task in itself, and the current events are not helping their personal struggles at all.
There is a moment in the story where Noah has the a-ha moment when everything clicks into its place, and where he can see God's guidance in his life bringing him to this exact place at the exact right time. It is a powerful moment that defines the whole story and was a great learning moment for me as a reader.
A compelling, unputdownable story filled with suspenseful action, delightfully sweet romance, and life lessons we all can take notes from. Add a cute little boy and his dog, the miraculous Christmas season, and you almost forget how many people's life ends or are changed forever because of the dangerous killer on the loose hunting for his prey with no respect to the human life.
~ Five Spoons

[Melmo2610 · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a solid mystery. I really liked the characters and the plot was super good. There was one plot point near the end that I didn't care for which brought my rating down a star. All in all, a good read.

[Trixi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even on his best days, he couldn't get free of that tight grip his past had on him. And it seemed like Melinda couldn't get rid of the grip her past had on her. Together, they made quite a pair.

Noah Cason's in town to investigate his sister Nikki's disappearance and asks for Melinda's help as a prosecutor & her only friend. What ensues is an explosive action packed suspense with many twists and turns that kept me turning pages! Just when I thought I could breathe again, the author throws in another attack against Melinda. I never did figure out who was behind them, she kept me guessing until the end when it was revealed. And what an ending, my heart was in my throat! As for the romance, both Melinda and Noah had past issues they had to overcome before they could open up their hearts. Melinda had trust issues due to her late husbands abuse and Noah's parents weren't very good role models. I especially loved how Melinda's faith touched Noah the more he got to know her.

I don't claim to have all the answers, Noah, but I have faith. I know God's character, and it good and holy. If He allows us to hit rock bottom, maybe it's to show us that He is the Rock at the bottom.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Deadly Christmas Duty! Full of action, heart-stopping moments, breathless anticipation and laced with faith in God who never leaves us or forsakes us and will always fight on our side!

She pushed through the fear, in the knowledge that God was with her. Despite all she'd been through, He'd been with her, fighting for her, giving her strength to survive...

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, such a great book! Melinda is a lawyer with different cases, but the main one is what happened to her friend, Nikki, who has disappeared after being married to an abusive man. Noah, Nikki's brother and handsome Navy SEAL, shows up seeking answers. The next thing you know, Melinda's life is being attacked and Noah is protecting her while trying to determine what happened to Nikki!

The attacks come FAST AND FURIOUS in this one, which makes for a great story, but man, is also tough for Melinda to endure. And just when you think they are FINALLY getting answers, her son gets kidnapped.

Really wanted to know how Robin and Trey were involved also, that was unfortunate.

I figured out who the culprit was towards the end, but the story is still a page turner and completely unpredictable. And Noah has nine lives in this one when he has more than one encounter with the killer. I would've needed a week off to recover from all that Melinda and Noah endure! I also liked that even though Noah struggled with his faith because of harsh life experiences, he does pray to God every time Melinda is in danger.

One of my fave scenes is when Ranger, the wonderful family pet, shows up unexpectedly to help. So glad he was unharmed!

Really enjoyed this one and highly recommend for readers who enjoy Love Inspired books, there was only a little Christmas in this one but it's filled with hope and courage.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 4 out of 5]

'He and God weren't exactly on speaking terms as of late.'

Take a single mom being hunted down by a vicious murderer and a former SEAL looking to find his sister 's killer and you have a sure fire recipe for suspense. Virginia Vaughan brings it with this latest novel and you will not be disappointed in this story. Great suspense!

*My thanks to the publisher and author for a copy of this book.. All opinions are my own..

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Deadly Christmas Duty. This is the second book in the Covert Operatives Series. I really enjoy Virginia's books and I'm always thrilled to get a copy in the mail. This book is well written, action packed, and full of intrigue. Faith is interwoven throughout the book like a fine tapestry. You're going to love this story.

Prosecutor Melinda Steele is a single mother. She thought her problems were over when her abusive husband died. She returns to her office but the door is ajar. She entered but finds nothing out of order. The office is empty. A man comes to the door and wants to talk to her about his missing sister. Melinda agrees to help him try to find her and reaches down for her briefcase. She finds a bomb; someone wants to kill.

Navy SEAL turned security operative Noah Cason has returned home to find out what happened to his sister. She has been missing for one hundred and twenty five days. He is sure her abusive husband is the one who is at fault. He wants justice. He must find out what happened to her; but when the life of the beautiful prosecutor is threatened by a bomb his mission shifts. He must find who is trying to kill Melinda and keep her safe.

A journey of two broken souls struggling to find the answers they need while trying to keep each other alive. 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 life

[Sarah · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm gonna be honest. I dnf this puppy.

It didn't get off to a good start for me. Noah is pushy, narrow minded and judgmental. I can't understand how Melinda thinks he's "different" from other men when only 20 or so pages earlier she's feeling uncomfortable because he shows up at her door unannounced, dismisses her taxi without permission, then insists that she ride to church with him. I also find it unbelievable that the cops she often works quite closely with would respond to her being pushed down the stairs at church in the morning, then respond again to a home invasion with a murder attempt and arson tacked on only to leave her unattended in the hospital for what we can call the fourth attempt to kill her. Which brings me to the next point. if you are trying to kill her, why on hell's green earth would you haul her out the front door of the hospital by knife point when you could just kill her in her room?!?!?!

Also, what kind of accelerant did they use that they can light the bedroom on fire and somehow burn down a house that is at least 2 bedrooms, one bath with a full living room and kitchen??? Fire is usually to first of the first responders to respond.

Sorry, but no. Can't do it.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty good page turner took me a bit longer to get through this one because of fatigue but I liked it overall not one of my favorite of hers.

Melinda Steele is just trying to make a new life for herself and her son after surviving nearly being killed by her husband and she ran and never looked back. Now she’s in a new town and as the towns prosecutor she has put in allot of hours preparing cases. On this particular day a few odd things have seemed off to her but not enough to catch her full attention that is until Noah Cason walks into her office wanting to know what’s being done to find his sister! When Melinda reaches for the files under her desk in her backpack she notices something terrible inside and when Noah sees what it is he rushes her out of the building. And that is only the beginning of the attacks that are attempted on her life but Noah has managed to foil them for now. Noah and Melinda need to figure out who it is and fast because time is running out!

[Leslie McKee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Suspense books are some of my favorites, and the Love Inspired Suspense line has numerous authors who write engaging novels. Vaughan’s latest is no exception.

The action starts off with a bang (literally!) from the beginning, making this a page turner, especially as the attacks on Melinda increase. I enjoyed the double mystery (Noah’s missing sister and whether or not it’s connected to the attacks on Melinda and her son). Characters and scenes are realistic and well-crafted, as is the dialogue. Things wrap up a bit too neatly and quickly, but that’s typical with books this size. There’s a nice mix of suspense and romance. It’s a quick read, and I finished it within a couple hours. In addition to the story, look at the cover! It’s gorgeous and makes the story even more inviting.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting from beginning to end! We're quickly thrust into the heart of the story when Melinda finds herself in danger and Noah is nearby to help. The suspense keeps us guessing, throughout. Great characters, and attention grabbing story line and an overall joy to read!

Prosecutor and single Mom Melinda Steele finds herself in danger when she least expects it! She's not sure if this has to do with a criminal she's put away or if somehow the husband she presumed dead is back to torment her, but she needs it handled ... and fast!

Security operative Noah Cason happens to be in the right place at the right time to whisk Melinda out of danger, but when they discover that her predicament might interfere with the case he came to talk to her about, they set out to figure out who's trying to get rid of her while at the same time trying to narrow down what truly happened to his sister.

[Maryann Skaritka · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the target of a crazed killer who will stop at nothing to see her dead, prosecutor Melinda Steele is hanging on to life by a thread.

Noah Casin, a private security operative has come home to Daytonville, Alabama to get answers about his sister Nikki"s disappearance. Nikki also happens to be Melinda's best friend.

Lots of non stop action, chills and thrills jump off the pages in this suspenseful Christmas adventure.

I liked how both Melinda and Noah had trust and doubt issues in their personal lives and it was encouraging to see how they dealt with them. The subject of domestic abuse is also addressed.

Other things I enjoyed in this book were Ramy, Melinda's sweet six year old son, being blind sided by who the real would be killer was and the faith issues and questions most of us ask at times.

This book was a great fast paced suspenseful holiday read.

[Toth Jo-Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really loved this story for this book is full of surprises right from the start. We meet Melinda Steele and Noah Cason almost immediately. Noah is looking for answers as to what happened to his sister. Because of his background he could have made a choice to go one way but he chose another route. The book has some neat surprises in it and it deals with a issue with that is as old as time. It is fast paced and has some neat things in there. It shows how a friendship can blind you to a persons faults in this story. Its a excellent book and worth a read. You will see in this book alot of choices being made for good and bad. But the ones for good always seem to work out the best. Those are the one that always the best.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deadly Christmas Duty starts out with a bang and ends with a romantic proposal. Virginia Vaughan has woven an exciting plot in with a romance to create an excellent read. There are lots of twist and turns in the book; some that I never saw coming. The characters seem realistic, not like super heroes. The main characters are likable, if a little stuck on a failing which they do overcome. The dialogue flows naturally. My only complaint was the timing of the proposal although I loved the setting for it. I would recommend this to romantic suspense readers. I received an ARC. I chose to write a review and share my opinion.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who is trying to kill a prosecutor? Melinda Steels doesn’t know who is targeting her but wonders if it could somehow be her late husband. Did he survive the fatal accident seven years ago? Former Navy SEAL and brother to her supposedly murdered friend, Noah Cason arrives in town to help find out what happened to his sister. He ends up coming to Melinda’s aid and they team up to help solve these troubling cases. Can they trust the police and other friends? Will they even survive? The rapid-paced novel holds readers interest to the end. Plenty of suspense makes it hard to figure it all out. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Elizabeth Fiscus · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was full of suspense and crimes committed by a very evil person. Melinda is trying to keep her life low profile and simply enjoy it with her son, but someone starts targeting her and no one, not even her friends are safe until the monster after her is stopped. My heart broke for both of the main characters, Melinda and Noah, due to their backgrounds with very abusive families. They found their way to better places in their lives, but were still haunted by the past.
I recommend this book for anyone who loves reading clean suspense. I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Jordann · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Virginia Vaughan’s Deadly Christmas Duty, readers are taken on a wild ride when Melinda Steele, a prosecutor and single mom, finds out that someone wants her dead and dead by Christmas. Turning to security operative Noah Cason for help, they begin to try to undercover who is behind everything all while trying to stay alive.

If you enjoy suspense stories, especially those from the Love Inspired line, then Deadly Christmas Duty is a book that you will not want to miss!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, but was not required to leave a review

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read. Suspense, twist, turns with relatable issues and faith. Melinda was abused. Noah and his sister came from an abusive family. Like most survivors Noah takes on the guilt and asks the age old question of why does God let bad things happen all the time, where is the goodness in the world. If you thought this was a point A to B suspense, you would be wrong. Some great shake ups, in the small town good ole boy world and with the evil doers. Thoroughly enjoyed and would definitely read another book by this author.

[Mary Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Christmas Duty
Virginia Vaughan

A missing best friend, a bomb under desk, a missing assistant all leads to prosecutor Melinda Steele needing help to make sense out why someone is targeting her. When Noah Cason, former Navy Seal and brother of the missing best friend, shows up in time to save her from the bomb, Melinda has her protector.
A roller coaster of action and suspense as the villain is determined to get to Melinda. Couldn’t put it down until the end.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was awesome! the only reason that I gave it four instead of five stars is that I wished there was more detail at the end when it came to Nikki. I felt like we waited to whole book to know what happened to her and how noah would act and then it was as though it was no big deal. I wish there was a chapter designated to her being found and how it effected the town, Malinda, Noah, and nikki's husband. other than that i loved every aspect of this book.

[Karen Mcnicol · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Love Inspired suspense and thanks to Viginia Vaughan it will not be my last. This story of Melinda, her son Ramey. Noah a former Navy Seal and the brother of Nikki, (his missing sister) will tug at your heart strings and keep you glued to the very last page. This book is fast paced, full of action and is just a great book. The only bad thing I can say is it ended too soon.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is a page turning story to the end, she thought she left the past but now someone is after her and her son, he wants her help in finding his sister, if you like suspense and romance you have to read the book, very good

[Deanna Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who is trying to kill the victims best friend?? This is one keep me reading story! It certainly one that kept me guessing right until the end! If you like to try to figure out the suspect before the end.. you will like this one!

[Donna Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a page Turner. I started reading and couldn't put it down. There are many twist and turns as you try to figure out just who is stalking and after the prosecutor. This book deals with the issues of domestic violence, and the consequences of staying to long. Thanks for a great read Virginia Vaughan.

[Karen Hadley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book will keep you guessing who the bad guy is.
A gripping story.

Karen

[Brenda C. McAllister · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!!!!

What a good book. I really enjoyed it. I'm glad everything, well almost everything, turned out okay. I'm glad Ramey and his mom was okay and Noah.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome read...even though I didn't read it at Christmas

[charmaine White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow

Mystery,suspense,thrills and spills plus a whole lot of action.This one starts off fast and furious and just never slows down.A really enjoyable story.

[Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Exciting!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting read with good twists.