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“Retirement” means something altogether different to a spy. It means someone in authority over you has decided that “coming in from the cold” is out of the question. It means you’d better run. Laynie Portland has masqueraded as Swedish citizen Linnéa Olander for more than two decades, the last seven years as companion to Vassili Aleksandrovich Petroff, senior technology advisor to the Secretary of the Russian Federation’s Security Council.Life as Petroff’s mistress is lonely and difficult, even brutal, for Petroff has a pathological need to master what is “his.” But the woman Petroff knows as “Linnéa” is not the compliant, deferential woman he believes her to be. She is Laynie Portland—spy extraordinaire—and Laynie has stolen a wealth of secrets from Petroff and fed the treasure to her Marstead agency handlers.As Petroff’s abuse intensifies, Laynie fears for her life, and she petitions her agency to pull her out. Instead, her agency declares that she is too well-placed to decommission. Laynie is dismayed to learn that her Marstead chain of command would rather risk her death under Petroff’s hand than lose the valuable intel she provides.Out of options and faced with no viable alternative, Laynie runs.Enraged by her betrayal, Petroff vows to capture and punish her, a certain death sentence. And when Laynie disobeys orders, Marstead issues her a “retirement package”—a short walk off the deck of a ferry into the icy black rollers of the Baltic Sea.Pursued by Russian assassins and hunted by her own agency, Laynie scrambles, fights, and claws her way toward freedom—although she knows that it is only a matter of time before her pursuers overtake her. Desperate and despairing, Laynie is stunned to sense a higher presence at work, acting on her behalf. Could it be the God in whom her sister, Kari, trusts?No. Why would he help me, Laynie asks herself, given the life I have lived? Laynie PortlandBook 1: Laynie Portland, Spy Rising—The PrequelBook 2: Laynie Portland, Retired SpyBook 3: Laynie Portland, Renegade SpyBook 4: Laynie Portland, Spy Resurrected

329 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 4, 2019

223 people are currently reading
128 people want to read

About the author

Vikki Kestell

54 books211 followers
Vikki Kestell’s passion for people and their stories is evident in her readers’ affection for her characters and unusual plotlines. Two often repeated sentiments are, "I feel like I know these people," and "I'm right there, in the book, experiencing what her characters experience."

Vikki holds a PhD in organizational learning and instructional technologies. She left a career of twenty-plus years in government, academia, and corporate life to pursue writing full time. "Writing is the best job ever," she admits.

Also an accomplished speaker and teacher, Vikki and her husband, Conrad Smith, make their home in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Want to be notified of new book releases? Sign up for Vikki's newsletter on her website, http://www.vikkikestell.com/, or connect with her on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/TheWritingOfV..., or follow her on BookBub, https://www.bookbub.com/authors/vikki..., or right here on Goodreads.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for wp dew.
3 reviews
July 18, 2019
A Must Read Action Packed Page Turner

I have been waiting for this series for a long time. When we first met Laynie Portland in the Prairie Heritage series I was left wanting to know more about her. I have not been disappointed!

Laynie is one of the most complex characters I have ever met: hardened, lethal, professional, confident, sensual, hurt, broken, vulnerable, hopeful, caring... The list goes on.

I look forward to the next Laynie Portland book!
Profile Image for David Bergsland.
Author 126 books49 followers
October 25, 2021
Wonderful, exciting development

I loved this story. My only problem is that it was written by a romance writer, and therefore there’s no resolution to any thing. It why I don’t read romances. but I’m hooked and getting ready to start book three
88 reviews1 follower
July 6, 2019
Not retired!

There is nothing retiring about this spy novel! It moves at a fast pace and doesn’t let up! If you need a lot of sleep each night, this may not be the series for you! JK! ( Just Kidding!)
Vikki Kestell is an amazing author who propels her readers through each twist and turn while experiencing everything first hand! The adrenaline and heart pounding action isn’t just experienced by the characters! Be warned! 👍
Profile Image for Kim .
1,156 reviews20 followers
September 15, 2019
Whooeee! What a ride! This was even better than the prequel story. Action and suspense from chapter one until the end.

Laynie doesn't have Jesus in her heart, but she keeps meeting people who do, and they keep telling her that Jesus loves her, but she is finding it hard to believe that she is worthy because of what she has become as a spy!

Retired - okay, in this story there are two meanings. Laynie wants to retire from the spy business, but the spy business wants to retire Laynie for good! Laynie is now running from two people who want to kill her - and by the end of the story that will be three! Yikes! But, Jesus keeps watching out for her and leading her to people who will help her and show her His love! Just when you think she's done for, Jesus comes to the rescue! And she can't help but see it!

There was one phrase near the very end of the book that I had no idea what it meant or if it was a cuss phrase. Vyper used "fresh hell..." and then Vikki put a "bleeping" in there (which she replaces cuss words with), so I wasn't sure what the first phrase was since Vikki hadn't used cuss words in the rest of the story. Normally I would quit there because I don't read stories with cussing in them, but it had me flummoxed, so I continued on, hoping that it wasn't a cuss phrase! Just so you will be aware that it is there. Other than that this is a clean read. There is one character in the story who is rather wicked and Vikki does talk about his evil sexually perverse mind, but not in detail. If it were steamy, I wouldn't continue reading, but it is disturbing to think that there are people like that out there!

A very good read nonetheless.
31 reviews
December 31, 2024
This is the second book I've read in this series. The book is fast paced and overall well written.
Laynie has low self esteem in some areas of her life and has a strong competitive streak. The combination of the two lead her into several predicaments, to put it mildly.

In This sorry she is escaping from her life tired to a Russian oligarch . The story would make an excellent film Lots of action but reflective moments a plenty.

It is A also good to see her character growing, in so many ways.
Laynie is no longer the massive rebellious youngster, but a mature spy who has realised she is holding it together by a thread.

As scenarios changed Kanye becomes more relaxed and along with her wee are drawn into trusting what we see, but behind the scenes machinery of spy ing , espionage and counter espionage continues to rumble.

There is of course a tremendous final act and Laynie has to make another decision, party blackmail part sense given her knowledge and experience.

Her family's trust and concern for her is amazingly strong and it will be interesting to see whether this tension can be resolved in the next book or whether the stress Lanie continues to find herself in pills her apart. He relationship with God Debs and flows throughout , doubt s and belieft in constant conflict as Laynie judges God by her own circumstances , as we are all prone to do.

I'm so glad I continued to read this series ,I'm delighted to have found another author who combined a good story without true unbelievable one dimensional Christianity.

I'll let you know how the next book goes! Enjoy this one, you won't be disappointed .
2 reviews
July 16, 2019
Laynie Portland, an Unforgettable Character

I highly recommend Laynie Portland, Retired Spy. If you've not read the prequel Laynie Portland, Spy Rising, I suggest you start there in order to meet Laynie and learn why she finds herself in such a horrible situation at the beginning of Laynie Portland, Retired Spy.

Author Vikki Kestell often takes her readers on a harrowing ride. Though Vikki writes Faith-Filled Fiction, her characters are not saints. They are sometimes believers whose faith is tested. Sometimes they are lost, wondering why they can't seem to find contentment in their lives. At other times they are those people you just know God has placed in your life.

Laynie Portland has a sister who is a believer. Kari, Laynie's sister, planted the seed of faith with Laynie. Once the seed is planted, it keeps jumping to the forefront of Laynie's mind.

Suspense, danger, hope, and confusion are all a part of the novel Laynie Portland, Retired Spy. Vikki takes her readers on a spectacular ride, and leaves them lined up waiting for the third Laynie Portland novel in this series of four.

Selah award winner Vikki Kestell is a gifted author. She never disappoints her readers.
Profile Image for Paula Shreckhise.
1,532 reviews138 followers
June 24, 2020
After reading The prequel-Laynie Portland, Spy Rising- I was anxious but a little wary of reading Laynie Portland, Retired Spy. I was not sure how the author would handle a spy that used her body as part of her cover. However, Laynie is not a Christian... yet. The author handles the unsavory parts of the spy lifestyle with tact and realism. Her lifestyle was a springboard to show how God doesn’t give up on people. God tried to woo Laynie through her adoptive parents and upbringing. God put Christians in her path and many scripture verses on the attributes of God and how He loved her actually haunted Laynie. A very strong Gospel message was contained in this story.
On the spy craft side, this was a very exciting and entertaining look at what kind of life Laynie led and what she had to endure when multiple groups were after her. The author even managed to put her on a high jacked plane on September 11.
In this book, Laynie is beginning to realize what is really important in life, including the family she is trying to protect and maybe God!
A vey engrossing and exceptional spy story that reminds me of a favorite spy character, Jason Bourne. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

*I won this book from the author as part of the ACFW book club. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Profile Image for Dana.
159 reviews1 follower
August 3, 2020
I was really excited to read a book about a spy and definitely was not disappointed, though the title mentioned Retired Spy I didn't expect so much action and adventure and nail biting scenes. I loved that though she was not a Believer, she was definitely covered by prayer and God kept putting people in her life that would help her, that was very very cool. A lot of the scenes were cleverly written, which opened my mind to the spy world. Everything seemed realistic to me like it could really happen. or has for that matter! I didn't catch the year the book was written so was surprised and impressed in certain parts of the book that would not work in this day and age. I liked that the author chose that time frame. I am sorry to be vague but I don't want to cause a spoiler alert, when you read it you will understand! There were a lot of twists and turns and loved how smart the main character was and was intrigued in some of the things she had to do to survive. This is the ultimate suspenseful story which I would expect nothing less from a spy book, a must read.
Profile Image for Linda Klager.
1,020 reviews48 followers
June 19, 2020
Wow - if you want to read a book that is fast paced and interesting, this is the book for you.

Laynie doesn't feel loved even though she is very much loved by her adoptive parents, sister, and brother. They keep praying for Laynie!

Laynie has been working for Marstead International for a very long time now. Her current position has been for 7 years. She feels worn out and trapped and wants out and has written a letter of resignation, but unfortunately, her letter is ignored. Instead someone in the organization wants Laynie killed.

Laynie escapes and begins her journey of various deceptions, lies and false identities as she tries to stay alive. Vikki Kestell has written a detailed story of espionage. I have not read any of Ian Fleming's novels, but I am sure that Vikki matches or surpasses Ian's writings.

I want to read more about Laynie in future books.
Profile Image for Linda.
120 reviews1 follower
June 22, 2023
When I first downloaded this book I wasn’t the least bit aware that it was actually a continuation of the Prairie Heritage series by Vikki Kestell! It wasn’t until a connection was made between Laynie and Kari Thoreson that I realized that I was reading about Rose and Joy’s granddaughters.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Laynie’s life undercover and how she was courageous enough to run not only from the Russians, but also from the company that had employed her. As Laynie runs for her life she meets people who help her become more curious about God and his love for her. Even though she had been raised going to church and Sunday School, she had broken her connection to God as an adult. One of the things I do enjoy about this series is the frequent use of scripture. I now wish that as I read each book that I would have copied down scriptures that really spoke to me. I highly recommend this series .
Profile Image for Lora.
127 reviews
November 17, 2019
Targeted by Death Everywhere She Turns!

Laynie Portland has used every convincing trick and trade she knows as a spy in Russia for decades. Now she is faced with exposure and certain death—not only by the Russians, but by her own people! Every one of them is highly proficient with “disappearing” or “retiring” her, so how can she possibly escape? This story started with high stakes, but then the storms unleashed! I felt like I was Laynie—caught in a hurricane of death, destruction, and no way out! I was up till wee hours of the morning every night, my heart speeding as I raced through foreign countries, barely slipped through death traps, encountered terrorism, hackers, mysterious strangers, and being stunned with shocking surprises around every corner! What an astounding book!!
Profile Image for Patricia Bradley.
Author 29 books1,299 followers
July 10, 2020
This was a book I absolutely could not put down. I always wanted to be a spy when I was a kid, but after reading Laynie Portland, Retired Spy, I’m not so sure. It would be very difficult. But Laynie was very good at it. I loved watching her journey to God. He orchestrated the situations so she would slowly come to know Him.

I’ll let you in on a little secret…I wanted to be Laynie! She was so cool and calm and SMART! But eventually, all of that she depended on, failed her. That’s what was so neat about this book. It showed how God often works. It’s a book well worth the read!

There are two more books in the series by Vikki Kestall that I’ve already bought and can’t wait to read, and there’s another series that gives Laynie’s background – A Prairie Heritage.
476 reviews7 followers
January 12, 2021
Very detailed

I would never try to convince anyone I understand all the secret spy activity documented in this wonderful story. All I can say is enjoy the ride through the suspense. After reading the prequel of this series I was not too impressed with continued reading. I was totally wrong in my assessment of the story line as well as the strength of the characters. I loved this book and without a doublt will read all the other books of this series and all the series of other venues offed by this talented author. Thanks so much for you wholesome stories with no sexual overtones, no foul language and no graphic violence. Faith based writing wins out
Profile Image for Lennie McDonald.
133 reviews1 follower
March 23, 2025
Vikki Kestell's book Retired Spy isn't a book easy to put down. Best to read when you have extra time.
I was fascinated with this book. I was worried Laynie wouldn't last long once she decided to leave her current assignment, but she is resilent and definitely very aware of her surroundings. She is very people smart to.
She meets some very caring people as she tries to safely retire who pray for her safety and help her as much as they can.
I found the book very intriquing and may try to read more in the series if pocketbook allows.
4,418 reviews37 followers
November 13, 2020
Has Christian themes.

Author freebie. There is also a free prequel. A female spy is attempting to escape the lifestyle and is having a religious awakening. A long novel that ends relatively quickly? This female author writes good characters, her pacing seems a little odd? The Christian thoughts are a little blunt and happen pretty quickly considering they are occurring to a middle-aged woman.
Profile Image for Bruce Dinsman.
1,544 reviews3 followers
July 14, 2021
Oh what tangled webs we weave

I really like the ongoing evolution of Laynie Portland. But the point of the book in case you missed it, was that people were praying and God was drawing her throughout the story. At the same time, the script is running in her head that she is beyond saving, not worthy, reprehensible, and guilty. What you need to get from this is that your mind will deceive you as well as your heart, but your spirit longs for the unconditional love that God offers for free.
Profile Image for Ray.
30 reviews
October 27, 2019
I entered cautiously after reading the prequel which was a very detailed but plodding development of how Laynie's background, recruitment, and spy training hardened her character and heart to enable a successful spy career. Retired Spy, however, has no plodding. Rather, strap yourself in for a rocket ride of action and an amazing series of miraculous circumstances which are inevitably drawing her to a Savior who can remove her guilt, restore her identity, and open the doors for a life plan that is more than she could ask or imagine.
I will be anxiously awaiting the two books which will round out this series.
Vicki has kept me and my son well entertained with the Nanostealth series and now the Laynie series.
Keep on writing!!
Profile Image for Teresa Marine.
253 reviews6 followers
January 25, 2020
I was intrigued by this book. I had not heard of Vikki Kestell, I am so glad i was able to read this book - even though i jumped in the middle of a series, I was hooked, but the 2nd page. Vikki can certainly weave a story. Now I am going back to see where everything started. I want to see where Laynie Portland started, then i can go back and learn more about Laynie's new job.
315 reviews2 followers
March 4, 2021
Kathie Portland, Retired Spy

Exciting espionage and story of how after twenty years as a spy, Kathie has to fight for her release and freedom, not only from her handlers, but also, from the Russians upon whom she spied. All the while filming closer and closer to a relationship with the God off her family. Exciting read!
Profile Image for Maureen Chritzman.
157 reviews
October 1, 2022
Engaging Story

With some unexpected twists and turns, this second book in the Laynie Portland series kept me reading.

There were some great characters. I loved Tobin and Viper. It's cool to see how Laynie grows over the course of the book

I recommended this to any adult who likes faith-based suspense, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.



73 reviews
January 15, 2025
Intriguing & Heartbreaking

Filled with twists and turns made this book into an enjoyable adventure. Laynie is a complex and understandable character. This book is set about 24 years ago and serves as a view into a rapidly changing technological world. I look forward to reading the other book in this series.
1,832 reviews12 followers
March 8, 2025
This story is a wild ride! Laynie wants to get out of the spy business because it is getting too dangerous for her. When she takes the matter into her own hands she has many obstacles to navigate. I knew she would win out in the end but getting there had me worried. I learned about internet hackers which scared me. I received a free copy by joining the author's newsletter.
3 reviews
July 11, 2019
I really love all of Vikki Kestell's books! Wonderful faith filled book. Not only is this book ACTION packed it shows how to have continual faith no matter how long you have to wait, because you have a God who planned you, loves you and never leaves you.
Profile Image for Tracy Wainwright.
Author 23 books33 followers
May 11, 2020
Couldn’t put it down

Another great book by Vikki Kestell. She does character development and action very well. She doesn’t write in deep POV, but it doesn’t matter. Her mastery of intrigue and keeping a reader desperate to turn the page are excellent.
127 reviews
August 20, 2020
Retired Spy

So much tension, excitement,and the best of all Jesus's words of life! The character growth is slow and steady real like life. The lies of Satan stand out as timeless and destructive as he is in character. And the story is hypnotic and inspirational.
Profile Image for Linda Rae Williams.
286 reviews3 followers
November 29, 2020
Absolutely loved. It

I started it one day and finished it the next. Just kept reading. Did not do my chores. Just kept going. Well developed plot. So interesting. Needs a couple of tiny edits where a word dropped, but otherwise well put together.
514 reviews5 followers
December 10, 2020
What can I say?

There is nothing I can say to further exemplify this author's works. These books are beyond your normal mystery, adventure, Christian literature. You will thoroughly enjoy this read.
24 reviews
December 12, 2020
Amazing and absorbing!

I was so surprised to get so absorbed in this subject and so fast. It was definitely a page turner. It kept me up late reading and thinking about it when I wasn’t reading. I liked it because it was so different. I loved the scriptures also.
828 reviews3 followers
October 10, 2021
Riveting

Spies, false identities, being on the run from powerful people and organizations all made for a riveting book. So happy to have found this author (although her works keep me up way too late :).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews

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