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Smoke Screen
One father was murdered. Another was convicted of his death. All because their children fell in love.
Nate Beckett has spent his life fighting wildfires instead of the lies and rumors that drove him from his Colorado hometown. His mother begs him to come back now that his father has been released from prison, but it isn’t until he’s sidelined by an injury that he’s forced to return and face his past. But that means facing Brenna too.
Fourteen years ago, Nate was in love with the preacher’s daughter. When Pastor Strickland discovered Brenna defied him to sneak out with Nate, the fight between Strickland and Nate’s drunken dad was loud—and very public. Strickland was found murdered later that night, and everyone accused Roy Beckett. When the church burned down not long after, people assumed Nate set the fire to get even for his father’s conviction. He let the rumors fly and left town without looking back.
Brenna is stunned to learn that the man convicted of murdering her father has been pardoned. The events of that night set her life on a bad course, and now she’s fighting a brutal custody battle with her ex and his new wife where he’s using lies and his family’s money to sway the judge. Brenna is barely hanging on, and she’s turned to alcohol to cope. Shame and fear consume her.
As Nate and Brenna deal with the present—including new information about that fateful night and a wildfire that’s threatening their town—the past keeps igniting. Nate is the steady force Brenna has so desperately needed. But she’ll have to learn to trust him again first.
Nate Beckett has spent his life fighting wildfires instead of the lies and rumors that drove him from his Colorado hometown. His mother begs him to come back now that his father has been released from prison, but it isn’t until he’s sidelined by an injury that he’s forced to return and face his past. But that means facing Brenna too.
Fourteen years ago, Nate was in love with the preacher’s daughter. When Pastor Strickland discovered Brenna defied him to sneak out with Nate, the fight between Strickland and Nate’s drunken dad was loud—and very public. Strickland was found murdered later that night, and everyone accused Roy Beckett. When the church burned down not long after, people assumed Nate set the fire to get even for his father’s conviction. He let the rumors fly and left town without looking back.
Brenna is stunned to learn that the man convicted of murdering her father has been pardoned. The events of that night set her life on a bad course, and now she’s fighting a brutal custody battle with her ex and his new wife where he’s using lies and his family’s money to sway the judge. Brenna is barely hanging on, and she’s turned to alcohol to cope. Shame and fear consume her.
As Nate and Brenna deal with the present—including new information about that fateful night and a wildfire that’s threatening their town—the past keeps igniting. Nate is the steady force Brenna has so desperately needed. But she’ll have to learn to trust him again first.
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First published November 5, 2019
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About the author
Terri Blackstock
90 books5,586 followersTerri Blackstock is a New York Times best-seller, with over seven million books sold worldwide.. She has had over thirty years of success as a novelist.
Terri spent the first twelve years of her life traveling in a U.S. Air Force family. She lived in nine states and attended the first four years of school in The Netherlands. Because she was a perpetual “new kid,” her imagination became her closest friend. That, she believes, was the biggest factor in her becoming a novelist. She sold her first novel at the age of twenty-five, and has had a successful career ever since.
In 1994 Terri was writing romance novels under two pseudonyms for publishers such as HarperCollins, Harlequin, Dell and Silhouette, when a spiritual awakening prompted her to switch gears. At the time, she was reading more suspense than romance, and felt drawn to write thrillers about ordinary people in grave danger. Her newly awakened faith wove its way into the tapestry of her suspense novels, offering hope instead of despair. Her goal is to entertain with page-turning plots, while challenging her readers to think and grow. She hopes to remind them that they’re valued by God and that their trials have a purpose.
Terri spent the first twelve years of her life traveling in a U.S. Air Force family. She lived in nine states and attended the first four years of school in The Netherlands. Because she was a perpetual “new kid,” her imagination became her closest friend. That, she believes, was the biggest factor in her becoming a novelist. She sold her first novel at the age of twenty-five, and has had a successful career ever since.
In 1994 Terri was writing romance novels under two pseudonyms for publishers such as HarperCollins, Harlequin, Dell and Silhouette, when a spiritual awakening prompted her to switch gears. At the time, she was reading more suspense than romance, and felt drawn to write thrillers about ordinary people in grave danger. Her newly awakened faith wove its way into the tapestry of her suspense novels, offering hope instead of despair. Her goal is to entertain with page-turning plots, while challenging her readers to think and grow. She hopes to remind them that they’re valued by God and that their trials have a purpose.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 845 reviews
October 7, 2019
Terri Blackstock has been writing Christian fiction and suspense novels for a number of years and has had over 30 titles published. Smoke Screen is her most recent release and my first Blackstock book. And it won't be my last!
Blackstock writes like the veteran she is. Her writing style is polished, yet simple and engaging. I found myself very easily drawn into the story within a page or two. The plot and pacing are flawless; while not especially action-packed, there's never a moment that drags. The complexity of the multiple storylines kept me on my toes without ever becoming confusing. Throughout the course of the book, the author tackles some very difficult topics such as divorce, a custody battle, alcoholism, murder, and more. And she does so with much grace, grit, and honesty.
Smokejumper Nate Beckett returns to his small Colorado hometown after an injury sidelines him from his job. Years ago, his father was convicted--perhaps falsely--of murder, and upon his release from prison and Nate's return to town, rumors about the family run rife. Nate just wants to heal physically, and maybe find some restoration in his family. Brenna Hertzog is fighting a vicious custody battle against her ex-husband--and his influential father--and finds herself turning to alcohol to cope. The reunion between these characters couldn't have come at a worse time in their lives, but they are able to find healing as their relationship blossoms once more. The faith themes Blackstock weaves throughout the story were very beautiful and well done, and I loved seeing how the characters pointed each other back to God in the end. The romance between the characters was void of the extreme physical attraction that I find so tiresome in most romances, which was a breath of fresh air!
In summary, I think Terri Blackstock may have a new bestseller in Smoke Screen! Due to the aforementioned themes, I would recommend this book to older teens and adults. If you love a good contemporary fiction\suspense, you're not going to want to miss this one.
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Blackstock writes like the veteran she is. Her writing style is polished, yet simple and engaging. I found myself very easily drawn into the story within a page or two. The plot and pacing are flawless; while not especially action-packed, there's never a moment that drags. The complexity of the multiple storylines kept me on my toes without ever becoming confusing. Throughout the course of the book, the author tackles some very difficult topics such as divorce, a custody battle, alcoholism, murder, and more. And she does so with much grace, grit, and honesty.
Smokejumper Nate Beckett returns to his small Colorado hometown after an injury sidelines him from his job. Years ago, his father was convicted--perhaps falsely--of murder, and upon his release from prison and Nate's return to town, rumors about the family run rife. Nate just wants to heal physically, and maybe find some restoration in his family. Brenna Hertzog is fighting a vicious custody battle against her ex-husband--and his influential father--and finds herself turning to alcohol to cope. The reunion between these characters couldn't have come at a worse time in their lives, but they are able to find healing as their relationship blossoms once more. The faith themes Blackstock weaves throughout the story were very beautiful and well done, and I loved seeing how the characters pointed each other back to God in the end. The romance between the characters was void of the extreme physical attraction that I find so tiresome in most romances, which was a breath of fresh air!
In summary, I think Terri Blackstock may have a new bestseller in Smoke Screen! Due to the aforementioned themes, I would recommend this book to older teens and adults. If you love a good contemporary fiction\suspense, you're not going to want to miss this one.
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 21, 2019
4.5 stars
Smoke Screen was a very good suspense read from Terri Blackstock. I've read and loved several of her previous novels, so I was eager to read this one. It didn't disappoint. While I didn't certain aspects of the story (not a fan of stories with divorce), I did enjoy the story overall.
I liked how the main characters were sweethearts in their youth, so they had a second chance at love...that was cute. Also, the mystery was entertaining and held my interest. I didn't expect everything that happened.
All in all, Smoke Screen was a great read and I recommend it to fans of Christian thrillers. The book does deal with alcoholism.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Smoke Screen was a very good suspense read from Terri Blackstock. I've read and loved several of her previous novels, so I was eager to read this one. It didn't disappoint. While I didn't certain aspects of the story (not a fan of stories with divorce), I did enjoy the story overall.
I liked how the main characters were sweethearts in their youth, so they had a second chance at love...that was cute. Also, the mystery was entertaining and held my interest. I didn't expect everything that happened.
All in all, Smoke Screen was a great read and I recommend it to fans of Christian thrillers. The book does deal with alcoholism.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
November 29, 2019
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
SMOKE SCREEN by Terri Blackstock is her new standalone Christian second chance romance. This is an entertaining and intriguing easy-to-read romance with realistic characters and a mystery subplot.
Fourteen years ago, while in high school, Brenna Strickland, the pastor’s daughter and Nate Beckett, the son of the town drunk fell in love. When Brenna was found to be defying her father and sneaking out to meet Nate, Pastor Strickland confronted Nate’s father in the local bar. It was very loud and very public. The pastor was later found killed in this car and Nate’s father was accused and sent to prison. When the church burned down, not long after, Nate was rumored to have set it because he left town the next day, but he was never charged.
Nate has spent his life as a hotshot fighting wildfires. After being burned while rescuing a family from a wildfire, Nate is put on leave just as his father is coming home after being pardoned by the governor. His mother asks him to come home and he decides to return to face his father and his past.
Brenna is now divorced with two children and living across the street from Nate’s brother. Brenna is in the middle of a brutal custody battle and has lost her faith. She uses alcohol to cope when her children are with their father and his new wife. She is shocked to learn of Nate’s father’s pardon and does not know what to do with her feelings of guilt and anger.
Nate reconnects with Brenna and they easily fall back into their old feelings. Nate wants to help Brenna get over her need for alcohol, fight for her children and find her faith again. When new information on the pastor’s murder surfaces and an arsonist sets wildfires that threaten their town, Nate and Brenna must rely on each other, fight for the truth and be willing to believe in a future together.
I loved Nate and how he turned his life around. He is definitely BBF material and his life as a hotshot was interesting. I felt terrible and frustrated with Brenna. She was a great mother, but her alcohol abuse, while realistic, left me so frustrated. She was giving up and not fighting for her children until Nate showed her how. I was also not aware of the author’s previous books and that this book was a Christian romance, which I would not have read if I had known and I would have missed out on a good story.
The mystery from the past of the pastor’s murder and the church arson where both written and integrated into the story well and tied to the present day wildfire and Brenna’s custody battle. The solution was easy to figure out, but still satisfying.
Overall, I recommend this second chance romance.
SMOKE SCREEN by Terri Blackstock is her new standalone Christian second chance romance. This is an entertaining and intriguing easy-to-read romance with realistic characters and a mystery subplot.
Fourteen years ago, while in high school, Brenna Strickland, the pastor’s daughter and Nate Beckett, the son of the town drunk fell in love. When Brenna was found to be defying her father and sneaking out to meet Nate, Pastor Strickland confronted Nate’s father in the local bar. It was very loud and very public. The pastor was later found killed in this car and Nate’s father was accused and sent to prison. When the church burned down, not long after, Nate was rumored to have set it because he left town the next day, but he was never charged.
Nate has spent his life as a hotshot fighting wildfires. After being burned while rescuing a family from a wildfire, Nate is put on leave just as his father is coming home after being pardoned by the governor. His mother asks him to come home and he decides to return to face his father and his past.
Brenna is now divorced with two children and living across the street from Nate’s brother. Brenna is in the middle of a brutal custody battle and has lost her faith. She uses alcohol to cope when her children are with their father and his new wife. She is shocked to learn of Nate’s father’s pardon and does not know what to do with her feelings of guilt and anger.
Nate reconnects with Brenna and they easily fall back into their old feelings. Nate wants to help Brenna get over her need for alcohol, fight for her children and find her faith again. When new information on the pastor’s murder surfaces and an arsonist sets wildfires that threaten their town, Nate and Brenna must rely on each other, fight for the truth and be willing to believe in a future together.
I loved Nate and how he turned his life around. He is definitely BBF material and his life as a hotshot was interesting. I felt terrible and frustrated with Brenna. She was a great mother, but her alcohol abuse, while realistic, left me so frustrated. She was giving up and not fighting for her children until Nate showed her how. I was also not aware of the author’s previous books and that this book was a Christian romance, which I would not have read if I had known and I would have missed out on a good story.
The mystery from the past of the pastor’s murder and the church arson where both written and integrated into the story well and tied to the present day wildfire and Brenna’s custody battle. The solution was easy to figure out, but still satisfying.
Overall, I recommend this second chance romance.
October 22, 2021
4.5/5
I ended up loving this and it was a quick read!
Here's a second chance romance that totally worked for me! It gave me Persuasion vibes!
Nate and Brenna were so endearing together.
Brenna's struggle with alcohol was painfully real and the custody battle was brutal.
Have you ever felt so angry at completely made up people? Brenna's ex and ex-father-in-law were infuriating. It made me want to read it quicker to see them get taken down.
I wish I saw a bit more faith practice in Nate, since he was supposed to be the stronger one in that way at the beginning.
I totally teared up at Brenna's breakdown prayer to God. So relatable.
Definitely trigger warning for alcohol abuse and neglect of children.
I ended up loving this and it was a quick read!
Here's a second chance romance that totally worked for me! It gave me Persuasion vibes!
Nate and Brenna were so endearing together.
Brenna's struggle with alcohol was painfully real and the custody battle was brutal.
Have you ever felt so angry at completely made up people? Brenna's ex and ex-father-in-law were infuriating. It made me want to read it quicker to see them get taken down.
I wish I saw a bit more faith practice in Nate, since he was supposed to be the stronger one in that way at the beginning.
I totally teared up at Brenna's breakdown prayer to God. So relatable.
Definitely trigger warning for alcohol abuse and neglect of children.
November 9, 2019
I have likes and dislikes about this story. I liked Nate's character. I thought he was perfect hero material. I loved how humble he was and how he was willing to give his fellow jumpers credit for the daring rescue he performed. I loved how he stepped in to help Brenna through her problem. I loved that they had a past when they were younger and that they seem to pick up where they left off. Brenna on the other hand annoyed me. Thoroughly! I'm not a fan of hysterical/weak women and Brenna was both. Yes, it added to the drama of the story and some people really like that in a story, but for me I just wanted to slap her and tell her to buck up and fight back and quit sabotaging herself! I liked how everything was all wrapped up in the end and once again Nate was a hero.
December 5, 2019
Smoke Screen is a smart new mystery from bestselling author, Terri Blackstock.
Brenna Strickland Hertzog is a divorced single mom with a drinking problem she tries to hide. She’s resentful of her narcissistic ex-husband. Brenna has returned to her hometown after a contentious divorce, with no thought that her teenage sweetheart would move in across the street.
Nate Beckett is a smoke jumper injured while saving a family from a fire. He has returned to his hometown to heal while he is on a one month medical leave. His brother tells him that Brenna is back in town and lives across the street.
Any renewed relationship or friendship between Nate and Brenna is going to be difficult, because Nate’s father has just been pardoned for the murder of Brenna’s father fourteen years ago. Further complicating the situation is the accusation that Nate burned down the church where Brenna’s father had been the pastor. Neither family is supportive of a relationship between the two, though Nate and Brenna are developing a friendship that seems to be moving toward a more serious commitment.
Smoke Screen is a well-written mystery. The story is revealed through the alternating viewpoints of the primary characters, Brenna and Nate. This can sometimes be tricky and confusing to the reader but is handled appropriately through chapter headers. The characters are fully-fleshed and relatable, if not likable. The plot twists are well-conceived and executed. The romantic aspects add an element of distraction from the tense plot. The Christian themes were of particular interest to me and revealed the strengths and weaknesses of some of the characters. I enjoyed this novel from start to finish. I give it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to readers who enjoy mysteries with a little romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Brenna Strickland Hertzog is a divorced single mom with a drinking problem she tries to hide. She’s resentful of her narcissistic ex-husband. Brenna has returned to her hometown after a contentious divorce, with no thought that her teenage sweetheart would move in across the street.
Nate Beckett is a smoke jumper injured while saving a family from a fire. He has returned to his hometown to heal while he is on a one month medical leave. His brother tells him that Brenna is back in town and lives across the street.
Any renewed relationship or friendship between Nate and Brenna is going to be difficult, because Nate’s father has just been pardoned for the murder of Brenna’s father fourteen years ago. Further complicating the situation is the accusation that Nate burned down the church where Brenna’s father had been the pastor. Neither family is supportive of a relationship between the two, though Nate and Brenna are developing a friendship that seems to be moving toward a more serious commitment.
Smoke Screen is a well-written mystery. The story is revealed through the alternating viewpoints of the primary characters, Brenna and Nate. This can sometimes be tricky and confusing to the reader but is handled appropriately through chapter headers. The characters are fully-fleshed and relatable, if not likable. The plot twists are well-conceived and executed. The romantic aspects add an element of distraction from the tense plot. The Christian themes were of particular interest to me and revealed the strengths and weaknesses of some of the characters. I enjoyed this novel from start to finish. I give it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to readers who enjoy mysteries with a little romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 14, 2020
An exciting and gripping story of overcoming personal tragedy.
November 11, 2019
Smoke Screen by Terri Blackstock is a story about hope, redemption, and overcoming devastating hurdles in life.
Brenna is now a single mother after her ex-husband left her for a younger woman. He’s determined to take the kids away from her and she is devastated. She turns to drinking to cope.
Nate, a smokejumper for a group of hotshots fighting wildfires in Colorado, returns to his home town after suffering from some severe burns. Returning to the town he grew up in his tough. He’s not liked here by the townsfolk and seeing his first love, Brenna, doesn’t help matters, especially when his father killed her father and effectively ended their relationship.
Secrets are revealed after their reunion and maybe things from the past are not what they seem.
This book was a good read and I enjoyed the storyline. It would have been a solid four star read for me if I wouldn’t have figured out the biggest twist of the book early on. The book wasn’t near as exciting once I figured it out.
Overall though, it’s a good story and I loved Brenna and Nate’s characters. I also enjoyed learning about how wildfires are fought and combated. It was an enjoyable read.
TW: Alcoholism, Divorce, Custody Battle, Murder, Arson.
Brenna is now a single mother after her ex-husband left her for a younger woman. He’s determined to take the kids away from her and she is devastated. She turns to drinking to cope.
Nate, a smokejumper for a group of hotshots fighting wildfires in Colorado, returns to his home town after suffering from some severe burns. Returning to the town he grew up in his tough. He’s not liked here by the townsfolk and seeing his first love, Brenna, doesn’t help matters, especially when his father killed her father and effectively ended their relationship.
Secrets are revealed after their reunion and maybe things from the past are not what they seem.
This book was a good read and I enjoyed the storyline. It would have been a solid four star read for me if I wouldn’t have figured out the biggest twist of the book early on. The book wasn’t near as exciting once I figured it out.
Overall though, it’s a good story and I loved Brenna and Nate’s characters. I also enjoyed learning about how wildfires are fought and combated. It was an enjoyable read.
TW: Alcoholism, Divorce, Custody Battle, Murder, Arson.
September 10, 2019
This book was not what I was expecting at all. It was more like a depressing fictional drama than a suspense book. I could not find myself rooting for any of the characters and I really wanted more in the way of mystery, suspense, and plot in general. 90% of the book focused on Brenna’s alcoholism and custody battle. She was hard to empathize with and hard to like. I have a hard time thinking that the alcoholic needs custody of her children. I’m not sure what Nate saw in her and that made me question his judgement as well. Add in a 14 year old mystery that took a back burner to the drama and you have a really oddly plotted novel. I think Nate would have had an easier time jumping out of planes into fires than trying to figure out Brenna and her mood swings. This one wasn’t for me.
September 27, 2019
Terri Blackstock should have the title Queen of Romantic Suspense. I downloaded this book after church on Sunday and thought I would just peruse a few pages to see what it was about. I didn't stop until after midnight when I read The End. Seriously, I could not put this book down. I loved the hero. He was definitely that. A hero. The heroine was one I had to warm up to, but could empathize with. She was in a very bad place in her life. As far as the bad guy, I had an idea who it was, but it didn't matter because it was great seeing how it all played out. Great writing and sweet romance and as such with Blackstock, a great message of hope.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
May 17, 2023
Read this in just a few sittings. Every. Single. Page. had my attention. The characters were so real and captivating. I LOVE Terri Blackstock’s writing style and story telling. Definitely a favorite author of mine! 🥰
August 23, 2019
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Smoke Screen is one of the best Christian Fiction books I have read recently. Nate Beckett who is a smoke jumper fire fighter who finds his life turned sideways which leads him back to home town of Carlisle, Colorado to heal his wounds. Back home he crosses paths with a past love in Brenna who is struggling in her own life situation. Will the pains of the past continue to haunt both of them or do they have what it takes to overcome?
The author takes on some storylines that demonstrate for the reader the risks that come with false assumptions, false accusations, and living with the demons of the past. How does someone remain strong in their faith when the difficulties continue to pile on top of each other? Terri Blackstock finds a way to create the picture for the reader that life is sometimes messy and Christians stumble and struggle. This book is a refreshing look at the role of heroism and standing up for what is right. I can’t wait to read more by this author.
Smoke Screen is one of the best Christian Fiction books I have read recently. Nate Beckett who is a smoke jumper fire fighter who finds his life turned sideways which leads him back to home town of Carlisle, Colorado to heal his wounds. Back home he crosses paths with a past love in Brenna who is struggling in her own life situation. Will the pains of the past continue to haunt both of them or do they have what it takes to overcome?
The author takes on some storylines that demonstrate for the reader the risks that come with false assumptions, false accusations, and living with the demons of the past. How does someone remain strong in their faith when the difficulties continue to pile on top of each other? Terri Blackstock finds a way to create the picture for the reader that life is sometimes messy and Christians stumble and struggle. This book is a refreshing look at the role of heroism and standing up for what is right. I can’t wait to read more by this author.
May 19, 2025
Nate Beckett has been fighting wildfires since he left his hometown fourteen years ago. Back then he was the son of the town drunk, and he was in love with Brenna Strickland, the daughter of the local preacher. When Rev. Strickland learns that his daughter is seeing Nate, he makes his way to the local bar and insists that Roy Beckett make his son stay away from his daughter. A few hours later, the Reverend was found murdered, and Roy was arrested and sent to prison. Now Nate's father has been pardoned and is back home. Nate visits him while being off work due to injuries suffered in a fire. His father is still insisting that he is innocent and asking for help to clear his name.
While back in his hometown, Nate goes to see Brenna. She is happy to see him and doesn't blame him for what happened to her father. Her life has been crazy lately. Her husband left her for another woman and is now fighting for custody of their two children. Brenna is not dealing well with that fact and has started drinking. Nate volunteers to help her fight for custody of her kids.
This story was billed as Christian Suspense. To me it read like a clean contemporary romance with a couple of mystery elements. There really wasn't any suspense. I liked Nate and thought he was a good character. Brenna was her own worst enemy. She was great with the kids. But as soon as they left to stay with their father on the weekend, she would start crying, drinking and feeling sorry for herself. Instead of working with her attorney to get the kids back, she would just stick her head in the sand and moan about her life.
There was a lot happening in this story. Who killed Reverend Strickland and set up Roy Beckett? Will Brenna lose custody of her kids? Will Nate and Brenna rekindle their romance? Not much time was spent on the murder. The most interesting part of the story was about Brenna and her custody battle. The romance between Nate and Brenna was tepid at best.
I listened to the audio version of the story narrated by Sarah Zimmerman. She really didn't change her voice so we could tell the difference between the characters. I didn't know who was speaking a couple of times. My rating: 3 Stars.
While back in his hometown, Nate goes to see Brenna. She is happy to see him and doesn't blame him for what happened to her father. Her life has been crazy lately. Her husband left her for another woman and is now fighting for custody of their two children. Brenna is not dealing well with that fact and has started drinking. Nate volunteers to help her fight for custody of her kids.
This story was billed as Christian Suspense. To me it read like a clean contemporary romance with a couple of mystery elements. There really wasn't any suspense. I liked Nate and thought he was a good character. Brenna was her own worst enemy. She was great with the kids. But as soon as they left to stay with their father on the weekend, she would start crying, drinking and feeling sorry for herself. Instead of working with her attorney to get the kids back, she would just stick her head in the sand and moan about her life.
There was a lot happening in this story. Who killed Reverend Strickland and set up Roy Beckett? Will Brenna lose custody of her kids? Will Nate and Brenna rekindle their romance? Not much time was spent on the murder. The most interesting part of the story was about Brenna and her custody battle. The romance between Nate and Brenna was tepid at best.
I listened to the audio version of the story narrated by Sarah Zimmerman. She really didn't change her voice so we could tell the difference between the characters. I didn't know who was speaking a couple of times. My rating: 3 Stars.
November 11, 2019
Suspense is definitely something I read a TON of Terri Blackstock is also an author who I have read everything she has written. So when I heard Blackstock was writing another book, I couldn't wait to get my hand on it. With her newest novel, Smoke Screen, I wouldn't really classify it as a suspense novel. There was an element of surprise in the plot, but it didn't have the spine chilling chase from something or someone that Blackstock's stories usually do. Smoke Screen reminded me a lot of Center of Gravity by Laura McNeil. A story where the main heroine is trying to cope with the loss of a marriage and what it does to her. While the suspense element, trying to find out who really killed the preacher, was there, it didn't really capture the whole story. There was romance between the heroine and hero. Something that started fourteen years ago and tried to resume in the pages of the story. I really liked how Blackstock created a safe and honorable hero who didn't take advantage of a weak woman as she moaned the lost of her marriage. Overall, Smoke Screen reminds me of a contemporary woman's fiction with a hint of suspense. Not a bad novel but not what I was expecting.
I received a complimentary copy of Smoke Screen by Terri Blackstock from Thomas Nelson Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of Smoke Screen by Terri Blackstock from Thomas Nelson Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
June 6, 2020
Smokescreen 4.75⭐️
Brenda’s husband correction ex husband is running for mayor and since he wants the perfect family image him and his new younger fiancé want full custody of the kids just to make it look good for the cameras. When Brenda’s kids come home to her they tell her how much they hate being with their dad and how much his new fiancé doesn’t care about them and leave them with the nanny to go shopping. Jack Brenda’s ex-husband is ruining her life little by little whenever he gets the kids for the weekend she goes in a deep spout of depression. But a friend from her past comes back and tries to help her through it. That’s where Nate comes in. Nate is wonderful.
Her stories are so like like Yep give you the escape you need in a fictional novel and I adored this.
Brenda’s husband correction ex husband is running for mayor and since he wants the perfect family image him and his new younger fiancé want full custody of the kids just to make it look good for the cameras. When Brenda’s kids come home to her they tell her how much they hate being with their dad and how much his new fiancé doesn’t care about them and leave them with the nanny to go shopping. Jack Brenda’s ex-husband is ruining her life little by little whenever he gets the kids for the weekend she goes in a deep spout of depression. But a friend from her past comes back and tries to help her through it. That’s where Nate comes in. Nate is wonderful.
Her stories are so like like Yep give you the escape you need in a fictional novel and I adored this.
November 13, 2025
One of Blackstock's slower-paced mysteries, more character-driven than plot-driven. These are some really wounded characters, so not all of the reading is pleasant, but despite the hurdles I found myself rooting for our heroine to break away from alcohol and for our hero to gain the happy ending he's found out of his reach for so long. The background of fire/arson kept the story moving along and gave us some good scenes of our hero at his profession. I would have preferred to have had a longer ending to give more of a payoff after the angst, but otherwise it's a really good story, and I've since bought a hard copy to reread.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
May 21, 2020
Not my favorite by this author. I felt like the characters weren’t developed enough to really understand and know them.
June 28, 2023
Smoke Screen rings true. Like real people, the characters have messy lives. I love that. We are all prone to error and can complicate our lives by not handling stress well. This book is incredibly easy to read, and the action moves the story along quite well. I could related to the powerful plaintiff who has a skilled attorney thread of this novel. I will read more by Terri Blackstock.
August 9, 2020
This is a suspense novel but at the same time, it's a reunion between Nate and Brenna who dated as teenagers and never got a chance to you know, date! Nate's father is accused of murdering Brenna's Dad, and people point fingers at Nate regarding the arson job of the church. Nate leaves amid the allegations pointed towards him, and he only comes back home to Carlisle because he's sustained 2nd-degree burns after saving a family as a smokejumper. It just happens that Nat's brother Drew lives across from Brenna who is going through a divorce, and Nate goes over to just let her know that he's back in town for a few weeks. I really liked Nate but I find that all the male characters that are in Terri Blackstock's novel are really likable - at least - the main characters, in my opinion, are just wonderful, solid, not backing down kind of man. We need more of those in our real world, not just in the fiction world. I found Smoke Screen was kind of slow going but as I progressed in the novel, I kept going back to find out what else was happening. I finished this in a day.
June 28, 2021
3 to 3 1/2 stars - I thought I would like it more, and I did like it more as it went on (I came close to not finishing after the first 25% of the book).
The relationship between Nate and Brenna didn't feel terribly real to me. And the story was a bit predictable/cliché: man and woman have feelings for each other, but there are obstacles to overcome. You pretty much know that all the obstacles are going to get resolved and there will be a happily ever after, with the bad guys getting what they deserve. You can pretty much see everything a mile away.
On the other hand, the story did pick up for me in the latter half and I was interested to see how the details would play out - pretty fast-paced. And who doesn't like to read feel good books.
First book by this author and I would definitely try another one.
The relationship between Nate and Brenna didn't feel terribly real to me. And the story was a bit predictable/cliché: man and woman have feelings for each other, but there are obstacles to overcome. You pretty much know that all the obstacles are going to get resolved and there will be a happily ever after, with the bad guys getting what they deserve. You can pretty much see everything a mile away.
On the other hand, the story did pick up for me in the latter half and I was interested to see how the details would play out - pretty fast-paced. And who doesn't like to read feel good books.
First book by this author and I would definitely try another one.
November 23, 2021
I have had this book for a long time and today was the day to finally read it. The reason I didn't want to is because the story was on broken marriages and custody battles which unfortunately I have had a lot of experience in. Brenna can't face the breakup of her marriage and the custody battle that she is facing so when the kids leave, she hides and drinks her problems away. Nate, her old boyfriend comes back into her life. Everyone is against their relationship. Her family because Nate father supposedly killed Brenna father. But it doesn't matter, they begin to lean on each other for support and even more as time goes on. Can Brenna win the Custody battle to get her kids back, will Nate ever really forgive his father for what he put his family through, will Brenna ever stop drinking and depend on the Lord for the strength she needs to walk through this trial? I am glad I read this book. I loved the relationship between both Nate and Brenna and the support he gives her and his reminder that Jesus is the answer to the problems she is facing. Glad to have read this and do highly recommend!!
February 7, 2021
It was enjoyable. Took a while to get going, but the real life angsts of divorce, custody fights, and alcoholism made Nate and Brenna come to life. Of course, in this book truth prevailed and the good guy got the girl, which is sadly not always true in real life - but that’s why we read fiction, right?
January 23, 2023
4.5 stars
February 23, 2020
Small part of the book, but I was thrilled to see perfume mentioned as something made Noah sick!
A bit mystery, a bit action, drams and romance - great story!
A bit mystery, a bit action, drams and romance - great story!
January 21, 2025
I finished but realized I’ve already read it. Lol
October 7, 2019
'God is powerful. He could be my dread champion, my rear guard, the one who fihts for me. But I feel like I'm fighting all alone.'
Terri Blackstock returns with a captivating new novel told in two different POVs. Nate Beckett's father spent fourteen years in prison for killing Brenna Strickland's preacher father. Now, Nate's father has been released and Nate has returned to town to recover from a burn injury he's gotten on his job as a smokejumper. Brenna has also returned to town, divorced and fighting for her children from a vengeful ex husband who left her for a younger woman. Brenna is coping with alcohol from this devastating turn of events. In the meantime, a wildfire is threatening their town. This is a many-faceted novel that will draw the reader in over and over and interest is held captive until the very end. It moved me greatly. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Terri Blackstock has not lost her ability to keep a reader enthralled with the depth of emotions and suspense she is known for. Recommended.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions stated in this review are completely my own.
Terri Blackstock returns with a captivating new novel told in two different POVs. Nate Beckett's father spent fourteen years in prison for killing Brenna Strickland's preacher father. Now, Nate's father has been released and Nate has returned to town to recover from a burn injury he's gotten on his job as a smokejumper. Brenna has also returned to town, divorced and fighting for her children from a vengeful ex husband who left her for a younger woman. Brenna is coping with alcohol from this devastating turn of events. In the meantime, a wildfire is threatening their town. This is a many-faceted novel that will draw the reader in over and over and interest is held captive until the very end. It moved me greatly. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Terri Blackstock has not lost her ability to keep a reader enthralled with the depth of emotions and suspense she is known for. Recommended.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions stated in this review are completely my own.
May 20, 2020
Terri Blackstock has written a book that highlights some of the struggles of alcoholism, custody battles, and different dynamics within families. There was a really strong faith subplot in this book which made it really enjoyable for me. I love seeing how God can work to transform characters lives.
This book felt more like a romance to me than a suspense. The main plotline was the custody case of the main character, Breanna. This was the part of the book that was the most gripping for me. It was this, rather than the actual suspense and crimes, that kept me turning pages. The romance comes alongside the custody battle as the main characters work together to get through it.
Another sub point of the plot is the main character struggles with an alcohol addiction. To me it seemed like the addiction was a bit off and on. She would go through periods of heavy drinking and then spend a half a week sober. Although addiction can be that way, if she's trembling from lack of alcohol I'm not sure she'd be able to go over 72 hours without it. That being said, some of it was portrayed realistically and I think this book could be a good conversation starter. It would definitely make for an interesting book club topic.
The suspense took a bit of a back seat in this book. The crimes in this book were older so there wasn't that element of danger, it was more digging around now and then to try and find out what happened long ago. There were a few moments of intense suspense, but most of them were scenes from forest fires, as that's the career of Nate, the male lead. I really enjoyed those scenes, but I would have liked to see more suspense.
More of a romance than a suspense, I'd recommend this to someone who likes an intense romance or is interested in reading about difficult topics such as custody battles and alcoholism. I'll definitely be reading more by this author!
3 stars out of 5 for this one!
This book felt more like a romance to me than a suspense. The main plotline was the custody case of the main character, Breanna. This was the part of the book that was the most gripping for me. It was this, rather than the actual suspense and crimes, that kept me turning pages. The romance comes alongside the custody battle as the main characters work together to get through it.
Another sub point of the plot is the main character struggles with an alcohol addiction. To me it seemed like the addiction was a bit off and on. She would go through periods of heavy drinking and then spend a half a week sober. Although addiction can be that way, if she's trembling from lack of alcohol I'm not sure she'd be able to go over 72 hours without it. That being said, some of it was portrayed realistically and I think this book could be a good conversation starter. It would definitely make for an interesting book club topic.
The suspense took a bit of a back seat in this book. The crimes in this book were older so there wasn't that element of danger, it was more digging around now and then to try and find out what happened long ago. There were a few moments of intense suspense, but most of them were scenes from forest fires, as that's the career of Nate, the male lead. I really enjoyed those scenes, but I would have liked to see more suspense.
More of a romance than a suspense, I'd recommend this to someone who likes an intense romance or is interested in reading about difficult topics such as custody battles and alcoholism. I'll definitely be reading more by this author!
3 stars out of 5 for this one!
November 6, 2019
A fun romantic suspense with 2 characters on the opposite ends with one whose father was murdered and the other whose father was the murderer. The premise itself was quite intriguing.
Brenna, a single mother fighting for the custody of her kids, whose preacher father was killed and Nate, a smoke jumper who spent his life fighting fires, whose father had apparently killed the preacher and was now pardoned after 14 years of prison. Brenna and Nate were high school sweethearts whose love ended with their fathers. Now one was back proclaiming his innocence. Nate wanted to investigate into it as well as explore his feelings for Brenna.
My first book by author Terri Blackstock was a smooth read with clear emotions. The plot which could have been murky was treated with great suspense and I found myself slowly being pulled into the story. I didn't like Brenna she drank too much. A single mother who was near alcoholic put me off.
But Nate was equally endearing pulling my emotions in a positive way. I read his parts with great enthusiasm. He was intelligent and brave and had quite the guts to pursue his romance with Brenna as well as investigate into a crime which took place nearly 15 years ago.
Fast paced, thanks to Nate, the story was on point without meandering. Written in dual POV, I could get an idea of their emotions. The author was quite a story teller keeping a balance between romance and suspense without it becoming overly scorching.
I enjoyed it. A sweet read, would recommend it between intense books.
Brenna, a single mother fighting for the custody of her kids, whose preacher father was killed and Nate, a smoke jumper who spent his life fighting fires, whose father had apparently killed the preacher and was now pardoned after 14 years of prison. Brenna and Nate were high school sweethearts whose love ended with their fathers. Now one was back proclaiming his innocence. Nate wanted to investigate into it as well as explore his feelings for Brenna.
My first book by author Terri Blackstock was a smooth read with clear emotions. The plot which could have been murky was treated with great suspense and I found myself slowly being pulled into the story. I didn't like Brenna she drank too much. A single mother who was near alcoholic put me off.
But Nate was equally endearing pulling my emotions in a positive way. I read his parts with great enthusiasm. He was intelligent and brave and had quite the guts to pursue his romance with Brenna as well as investigate into a crime which took place nearly 15 years ago.
Fast paced, thanks to Nate, the story was on point without meandering. Written in dual POV, I could get an idea of their emotions. The author was quite a story teller keeping a balance between romance and suspense without it becoming overly scorching.
I enjoyed it. A sweet read, would recommend it between intense books.
November 17, 2019
It's another well-written novel from Terri Blackstock that is reminiscent of her Moonlighters series. It has intrigue regarding what may be considered "cold cases" from the past but the emphasis is more on the family drama and relationships as Brenna struggles through an ugly divorce and its aftermath and her old high school sweetheart returns to their hometown. There is a lot of backstory involved in Brenna and Nate's tumultuous high school relationship and the outcome of that past relationship collides with the present day happenings to bring some twists and turns to the plot. The heart-wrenching realities of divorce, alcoholism, wild fires, and desire for revenge are starkly real and the author digs deep into the emotion well to bring us close to the characters' hearts and motivations. These darker realities are balanced out by the growing affection between Brenna and Nate and lessons of faith and trust.
It's definitely not like the author's previous If I Run series in the intensity of suspense, but leans more toward her last book Catching Christmas in the intensity of emotion and shared human experience. If you enjoy contemporary fiction with a strong theme of overcoming adversity, you will enjoy this book. I received a copy of the book from Thomas Nelson via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
It's definitely not like the author's previous If I Run series in the intensity of suspense, but leans more toward her last book Catching Christmas in the intensity of emotion and shared human experience. If you enjoy contemporary fiction with a strong theme of overcoming adversity, you will enjoy this book. I received a copy of the book from Thomas Nelson via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
November 21, 2019
3.5
Single mother Brenna Strickland struggles with alcohol as her ex-husband works to take everything she holds dear. Injured firefighter Nate Beckett returns home to recover—and reacquaint himself with his father, the man accused of murdering Brenna’s father. Family, reputations, secrets, jealousy, faith, romance, and truth all tie into the obstacles that Brenna and Nate must overcome, making for quite an emotional story.
Terri Blackstock’s Smoke Screen proves to be a quick, intriguing read. Getting to know Brenna and Nate is a pleasure (even as their circumstances—and choices, too, at times—frustrated me), making me want only the best for them. I just had to keep reading to find out where their story would go, and thankfully, its progression is quite satisfying.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Single mother Brenna Strickland struggles with alcohol as her ex-husband works to take everything she holds dear. Injured firefighter Nate Beckett returns home to recover—and reacquaint himself with his father, the man accused of murdering Brenna’s father. Family, reputations, secrets, jealousy, faith, romance, and truth all tie into the obstacles that Brenna and Nate must overcome, making for quite an emotional story.
Terri Blackstock’s Smoke Screen proves to be a quick, intriguing read. Getting to know Brenna and Nate is a pleasure (even as their circumstances—and choices, too, at times—frustrated me), making me want only the best for them. I just had to keep reading to find out where their story would go, and thankfully, its progression is quite satisfying.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
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