Christmas Hostage

Christmas Romantic Suspense #1

by Jane Blythe

Tragedy tore them apart. Now it’s giving them a second chance.

He walked away because he thought it was what she wanted. When FBI Agent Tom Drake arrives at the scene of a robbery, the last person he expects to see is his ex-wife. Seeing her again reminds him of everything he lost when they divorced, and the only way he's going to survive being around her again is to keep reminding himself this is just another job.

She let him walk away because she thought it was what was best for him. Hannah Buffy is conflicted about seeing her ex-husband again, especially when he starts claiming he thinks the robbery at her store wasn’t random. Positive it is just another way for him to paint her as a victim, she ignores his warnings at her own peril.

↝ Trigger warning - mature content, issues of sexual assault/abuse, violence ↜

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Suspense, Mystery, Contemporary, Romantic Suspense, Holiday

216 pages, ebook

Published December 1, 2017

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Jane Blythe writes action-packed romantic suspense and military romance featuring protective heroes and heroines who are survivors. One of Jane's most popular series includes Prey Security, part of Susan Stoker's OPERATION ALPHA world! Writing in that world alongside authors such as Janie Crouch and Riley Edwards has been a blast, and she looks forward to bringing more books to this genre, both within and outside of Stoker's world. When Jane isn't binge-reading she's counting down to Christmas and adding to her 200+ teddy bear collection!

Reviews

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hannah and Tom had it all, love, a beautiful home that felt like a safe haven where no one could touch them, but most of all they had each other, until the night of pure, living hell that broke them.
Tom was forced to witness the most brutal act of torture he could imagine and he was helpless to do anything to help Hannah. As an FBI agent, he had failed. As a husband he was gutted and helpless, and he felt he had failed.

Hannah will never be the same after that night, but she has struggled “her way” to heal, to deal with the scars and to learn to live again. It was that need to NOT be a victim that came between Tom, weighted down with guilt and Hannah, desperate to regain her life. Their marriage was over, the true victim of the night from Hell.

Now Hannah must see Tom again, when her jewelry store is robbed. Was it just one of a string of similar robberies or is there something personal about this robbery? While Tom is convinced there is more to the armed break-in than random selection, Hannah fears he is trying once again, to make her feel weak, to undo the gains she has made, but is he? Could his cop instincts be correct or does the fact that they have unfinished love to share cloud the facts? Is it possible to re-kindle a love that never should have died? Can these two learn to listen to what the other is saying? It isn’t possible to undo the past, but the future is yet to be seen…

Do you believe in second chance love, even after it was torn from its very foundations? Jane Blythe’s CHRISTMAS HOSTAGE doesn’t have fluffy snowmen or dancing reindeer, it has grit, two hearts each pulling for the same result, not even aware they are pulling in opposite directions, but most of all, it has love learning to be exactly what it should be…there when it is needed.
Do you want to read about a truly strong heroine? Meet Hannah. Oh, she isn’t rock hard, she is real, not afraid to have a soft side and she has struggled to get there, to trust again, and Jane Blythe has certainly put her to the test.

Post-review note: This author sends messages in PINK ink, yet her stories are raw and not for the faint of heart, but they also bring out the best in people, too.

I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC edition from Jane Blythe!

Series: Christmas Romantic Suspense - Book 1
Expected Release: December 1, 2017
Publisher: Bear Spots
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Number of Pages: 217
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Debbie DiFiore · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just another lousy husband who walked away from his wife after he witnessed her gang rape during a house invasion. He 'thought' she wanted him too. What a freaking moron. Apart three years divorced and only he has sexual relationships with other people. And he was glad she hasn't. I bet she wished he hadn't either but he couldn't say that. He had a four month relationship plus other hookups. Just hate this ruined what might have been a good book. The mystery was good but I am totally sick of the double standards. She did have a platonic boyfriend but they never took it to the next level. Because she loved her husband that walked away from her after her rape! Such a wonderful hero!!! NOT! So yeah he loves her again and blah blah blah. at least the mystery kept me engaged.

[Sherry Fundin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Action from the getgo.

Hannah’s friend is shot and killed in a jewelry store robbery and we are off and running in this suspenseful Christmas mystery. I got wrapped up in the characters, as well as the story and she kept the mystery alive with the villain mixed into a list of suspects. This is a story of second chances and maybe this time Hannah and Tom will get it right.

Hannah won’t let anyone help her, touch her. She sat on the floor, against the wall, and cried as the police did their work…Until…

Tom Drake, her FBI ex husband arrives on the scene and back into her life. He knew she was strong and wouldn’t want his help, but there are bad guys on the run and who knew where they would strike next.

As Christmas approaches, Hannah’s determined to carry on, business as usual in the jewelry store. She is focused, going step by step, keeping moving, life goes on. It doesn’t mean bad memories don’t haunt her.And Tom’s just as determined to solve the crime.

It wasn’t his choice to walk away from her, but they were no good together any more. It was what she wanted, or so he thought. Whatever happened to cause the split must have been horrifying and I am waiting, foot tapping, impatiently waiting, to find out what.

Perceptions are not facts.

“That’s not what happened.”

“Yes, it was.”

“No, it wasn’t.”

“Yes, it was.”

“No, it wasn’t.”

I love how Jane Blythe’s writing allows the characters personalities to shine through. Now, if they would just learn to listen, to communicate. Maybe they never would have split up in the first place.

Jane Blythe has bounced me around, fooling me, several times now. As the suspects fall, one by one, I know there is more to come and only one will be left standing. This….this is the moment HE will be revealed…and I don’t know who HE is.

I have him in my sights now?

I hate when the woman refuses to be a victim, then puts herself in the hands of the one who wants her dead. BUT, I watch a lot of ID TV and it happens in real life all the time.

A horrific, unimaginable attack, but she is strong and will fight to her dying breath.

Jane Blythe writes some fantastic suspense thrillers and manages to keep me guessing. I like when I can’t figure out who the villain is. The characters grab hold of me and don’t let me go. The suspense and anticipation builds…and builds…

I do like my happy ever afters and Jane manages to supply those as well. Definitely left me with a warm fuzzy feeling and a Christmasy smile on my face, but this is not for the faint of heart.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Christmas Hostage by Jane Blythe.

See more at fundinmental

[Melissa Borsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hannah and Tom, once married, until a senseless act of violence turned their world upside down and pulled them apart. Now Hannah, once more a victim of a crime has to deal with her ex-husband who, as an FBI agent has been assigned her case. Is there a possibility of a second chance?
I thought this was a really good story, fast-paced, suspenseful, and full of romantic sparks. Highly recommend!

[Ashleigh Christou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you ever read a book and think “damn that would make an awesome movie?” That’s exactly what I thought after finishing this book! Action packed, twists, turns, tragedy, life changing events, reconnections, love, crazy OMG moments... it literally has everything and more! Plus it’s Christmas! Tom and Hannah endure a horrible event that sets in motion a story that you won’t be able to put down.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/11/2021)! 🎁

[Kim Shofner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh man, Jane Blythe could easily be my favorite author. This was an action packed, plot twisting 2nd chance romance. Ms. Blythe has created an amazingly traumatic book. Hannah and Tom have lived through so much already, even the end of their marriage. When Hannah's store is robbed Tom is the FBI agent in charge. Seeing each other dredged up feelings neither of them really want to look too deeply at. Tom has suspicions that Hannah was the actually target in the robber.
This book progressed so quickly and was such a page turner that I couldn't put it down. The twist with the twins was pretty cool too.

[Andria Potter · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not for me. 2 ⭐.

[Amanda Siegrist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read!

Wonderful story! One thing I always love about Jane Blythe’s stories is that I will get a great suspense story, and she definitely delivers here! Plus, you also get some wonderful Christmas spirit and it makes it an even better story! I felt for Hannah and Tom the entire way through, and just couldn’t even imagine surviving and dealing with the trauma they did. It was beautiful to see them come together at the end and find their happy ever after!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

Christmas Hostage is the first book in the FBI Christmas Trilogy by Jane Blythe. It is an intense, nerve-wracking romantic suspense, with a second chance at love. I have loved reading Ms. Blythe’s “Count to Ten” series, so when I saw this book I knew that I had to read it too. It is everything I had hoped it would be, keeping me glued to the pages, and reading along as fast as I could as the story unfolded. There were moments my heart was in my mouth, others points where my stomach roiled, then there were times where I was smiling or laughing at something that had been said or was happening. This story had it all, taking me on a ride that soared to the highest point, before suddenly plunging me to the depths of despair, my heart breaking for the characters and what they had and were enduring! Ms. Blythe is such a gifted author to be able to pull such strong emotional responses from her readers. She doesn’t shy away from a tough topic, writing a harrowing account of Hannah and Tom’s ordeal; giving it a raw realism by not holding any punches. This is stomach churning, intense, brutal and disturbing authenticity. She puts her characters through the kind of turmoil that no one should have to experience- most people would crumble and probably give up- but this ordeal served to make them stronger in the end.
Hannah and Tom have a shared past, they haven’t seen each other for three years. They parted in quite a heartbreaking and devastating way, and didn’t think they would ever see the other again, didn’t know if they would want to see or know about the other again, either. But life has a way of throwing you in the deep end, making you face things that you would rather forget. But some things can never be forgotten. So, when Hannah’s jewellery store is held at gunpoint, and happens to be the fifth raid in a string of similar robberies, the FBI are called in to investigate. Which brings Tom into the picture. As a seasoned Special Agent with the FBI, he is the lead investigator on the case. When he walks back into Hannah’s life, both their worlds will be upended. As the investigation progresses, it becomes apparent that here is something far more sinister going on there than first meets the eye, and it’s up to Tom to figure it all out and keep Hannah safe, before it’s too late.
Can he figure it all out in time? Will these two find the closure they so desperately needed? Will this prove to be their best Christmas yet, or will it spell then end for one or both of them?
These two really frustrated me at times with their lack of communication, presumptions and misunderstandings- I really wanted to whack their heads together and tell them to get their act together. So much struggle and pain could have been avoided if they had listened properly and revealed how they truly felt. URGHHHHH! But, having said that, I really loved Hannah and Tom- what Hannah (and Tom) were forced to endure made my heart shatter. I think she is an amazing, strong and incredible human being to have made it out the other side. I admire her and was rooting for her (and Tom) the whole way through. Tom is wonderful, so protective, kind and considerate- but he was his own worst enemy at times- taking things into his own hands and thinking he’s doing the right thing for the other person, without asking if it’s really what the other person wants. I loved how Ms. Blythe brought the story together and the way the story ended.
I am really looking forward to the next book!

Thank you, Ms. Blythe!

[Deliah Lawrence · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first romantic suspense I’ve read by Jane Blythe, and I found her style to be captivating. The storyline revolves around a jewelry store robbery, a traumatized store owner, a crazed stalker, and an ex-husband/FBI agent assigned to track down the culprits.

Let’s meet Hannah Buffy, a divorced jeweler trying to rebuild her life after a traumatic event that shattered her marriage to FBI Agent Tom Drake. Three years ago, they both endured immense pain and decided to go their separate ways.

Fast forward to just a few days before Christmas, when Hannah’s jewelry store is robbed at gunpoint. Overwhelmed by her fear of guns, she fails to give the robbers the safe’s code, resulting in oner of her employees being shot. The FBI is called in to investigate a string of jewelry store robberies across the city, and to Hannah’s shock, the agent assigned to the case is none other than her ex-husband, Tom. Their reunion is fraught with tension, as Tom’s instinct to protect Hannah clashes with her fierce independence. Yet, neither can deny the lingering love between them.

Despite repeatedly insisting she doesn’t need Tom’s help; Hannah finds herself grateful for his presence during terrifying moments. Someone breaks into her home, leaving a heart-shaped red box and a bouquet on her kitchen table. Later, a stalker holds her hostage at gunpoint in her own home. In each instance, Tom is there to save her, despite her protests.

The author skillfully weaves a web of suspense, planting enough red herrings to keep readers guessing about the culprit behind the robbery—and whether it’s tied to Hannah personally, as the other citywide robberies are solved. Suspects include Garry Smith, her ex-boyfriend; Dr. Bryce McCracken, a therapist with unconventional methods for treating trauma; Vincent Zimmerman, the neighbor’s son who works part-time at the jewelry store; and Jeff Shields, a longtime employee who previously worked for the store’s former owner.

Overall, this was a fast-paced, enjoyable read about a second chance at love. While the repeated emphasis on Hannah’s resistance to Tom’s help was hammered a bit much, the story’s twists and turns kept me engaged, as did the gradual unraveling of her traumatic past. Thankfully, Hannah and Tom got their happily-ever-after, but it took some work to get there. A great introduction to the series. Two thumbs up!

Some of my favorite lines:

With time, she had learned to manage all those things. The fear was still there, like a distant shadow hovering in the recesses of her mind. The compulsion to vigilantly study her surroundings and to check and recheck her home each night was always there. Hannah knew those things would never leave her, but so long as she could manage them, then she felt like she had overcome what had happened to her.

She just wished that Tom had seen it the same way.

He had wanted to fix everything for her, and what had happened couldn’t be fixed. It could only be treated.

He had been supportive of her seeing a therapist and comforted her more nights than she could count when nightmares had plagued her. But he couldn’t shake the need to save her. She hadn’t needed a savior; all she’d needed was her husband.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Just a job.”
This was a suspense crime thriller, with some second chance love, and little bit of Christmas magic sprinkled in at the end kind of novel. I had hoped for more of a Christmas theme to shine through, but when it did develop it was sweet, I just didn’t think it was enough to fulfil the title that went with it. Otherwise this was a pretty good read as a first-time reader of Jane Blythe for me. I was intrigued with the storyline presented in the synopsis and dove in not knowing much else what to expect.
Hannah Buffy and Tom Drake both have a history together. In fact, they used to be married. It is three years later, following a tragedy that shook the foundation of their marriage to the point of collapse, that they are suddenly thrust back into each other’s lives.
Hannah has done her best to heal and move on. She is a successful jewelry business owner and has started a whole new life for herself. “So, what? She thought to herself. There was no one to worry about her if she did. And, besides, when she kept busy, she kept herself out of the dark place that used to consume her. She wasn’t ever going back there. Ever. So, she focused all her energy on her work and it was paying off. Her store was booming.”
All of this changed when there was a robbery one evening at her store on December 18th. (the close connection to Christmastime) The detective that was called to the scene was none other than that of her ex-husband Special Agent Tom Drake. “Hannah was long gone, no longer part of his life and this woman had to be someone else who just happened to share her name.”
The case is either going to bring them back together to solve it and leave them going their separate ways or they will find their way back to each other. Whichever way it turns out will they come out unharmed by themselves or by the ones after them?
This was a solid first read for me and I would be interested in reading more of Jane Blythe’s work outside of the “holiday” collection ideal. The lack of it was my only reason for marking down to four stars. I just didn’t get that warm fuzzy feeling I was hoping for when you pick up a romance in December around Christmas.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Hostage (Christmas Romance Suspense Book 1) by Jane Blythe is a suspenseful romance Christmas story about second chances. This author has created a story that has a little bit of everything in it, from romance to action to suspense. I enjoy her writing style, it just pulls me into her story right from the beginning. Her creative characters are connectable, lovable and easy flowing. I found that I couldn't put this story down until the last page. The twists and turns in this story will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat one minute and needing to cool off the next. The emotional roller coaster ride they take you on will leaving you laughing to feeling compassion. This story is about a relationship that goes bad but fate will through them a second chance. Tom and Hannah were married once before but let each other go because they thought that was best for the other. They both move on with their lives, Tom as an FBI Agent and Hannah as a jewelry store owner. What will happen when one tragic situation throws them together again? When they realize that Hannah's situation is not part of what has been happening will it put her in danger? Will he be able to keep her safe? What will fate have in store for them? Will they find themselves together again after all of this? I loved both of these characters. They are so strong, emotionally and physically. They both have never forgot the other person no matter how hard they have tried. These two have chemistry and history that is worth something. I found myself hoping that they would have a happy ending. They will bring the Christmas spirit to your heart. The secondary characters are just as enjoyable even though I didn't care for a couple of them. I highly recommend this story as I know you will want to see if these two find their second chance.

[Roxana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can I just fan girl for a moment and tell you how much I loved Jane Blythe? Yes? Okay.

I started reading Christmas Hostage because it’s full of suspense, as well as romance. Put those (2) ingredients together – and what do you have? A book that kept me on the edge of my seat – literally. I loved every aspect of this book, from the character development to the storyline.

We get to meet our beautiful Hannah, a character that has her flaws, but boy is she a strong woman. And I mean that in every sense. From a strong spirit, to a strong soul and heart, and even a strong mind. It hasn’t always been easy for her, as she’s had her trials to get to where she’s at. But she’s managed to. And I love her because she has survived all that she has.

We also get to meet FBI Agent Tom Drake. A character that obviously isn’t perfect, but he’s close enough. And like Hanna, he’s had his trials in life. And it’s those trials that make him who he is. The job that he has isn’t the easiest, but it is what he likes to do.

Did I forget to mention that this is a second chance romance? Because sometimes – it’s my favorite. And yes, Tom and Hannah were an item before (a married item actually) that didn’t work out so great before. But lucky for them, life happens and circumstances put them in the position where they have to deal with each other again. And it’s the “again” that I love. It’s the opportunity to being able to try, even though certain things are happening around them that could endanger one or both of them (you know, with Tom being an FBI agent).

I love everything that this story had to offer me. I loved discovering this author and being able to say that I’m willing to try more of her books, because I enjoyed her writing style. I loved that I was able to loose myself within this book. This book was a definite 5 Star Review for me!

[TDCbookreviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a stand alone novel and I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This book starts off in suspense was it a robbery gone wrong, what is going on with that lady freezing over a gun?!?!
It grabs you right from the beginning, I simply love this author's books, she creates strong story lines with real characters that you can imagine in real life.
I loved Tom as a character, he has so much love for Hannah that it makes him unable to see what she truly needs. I love these kinds of stories because sometimes it takes time away to make your love stronger. Hannah is an accomplished business owner and is a lot stronger then she thinks.

I love the twist and turns of this book, as always the author completely surprises you with the ending and I love the "who did it", it kept me guessing until the end of the book. You don't want to miss out on this book.
Book Blurb:
Tragedy tore them apart now its giving them a second chance.

He walked away because he thought it was what she wanted. She let him because she thought it was what was best for him.

FBI Agent Tom Drake has been investigating a string of armed robberies at jewelry stores. The last person he expects to see when he arrives at the scene of the latest robbery is his ex-wife Hannah Buffy.

Hannah is conflicted about seeing her ex-husband again, especially when he starts claiming he thinks the robbery at her store isn't related to the other ones. Is this just another excuse for Tom to treat her like a victim or could he be right?

** Warning: Graphic violence and themes of sexual assault/abuse **

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started reading Christmas Hostage by Jane Blythe I thought I would be reading a light hearted Christmas story, probably something to do with being held hostage by Christmas, or finding a new holiday love, something along those lines. I should have known better! After reading Ms. Blythe in the past I should have known that I would be getting so much more.
This is the story of Hannah Buffy, a survivor of a past brutal attack. An attack that wrecked her marriage while building her into a strong, independent, fierce survivor who works hard to not feel like a victim. A robbery of the jewelry store that she owns a week or so prior to Christmas puts the hard work Hannah has accomplished to the test.
The FBI has been investigating similar robberies of jewelry stores in the area when they get the call to come to Hannah’s store. The lead agent happens to also be Hannah’s ex-husband, Tom Drake. Tom never wanted to be away from Hannah, but thought leaving was what Hannah needed to heal; now he has to find who robbed Hannah and decide if he can continue to live without her.
I just love Jane Blythe’s books, this is only my second by this author but it will not be my last. Like the first story I read by Ms. Blythe this book kept me guessing to the very end not to mention caused my emotions to go from one extreme to another. Just when I thought I had everything figured out there’s a twist thrown in. That’s a talent very few writers have! I look forward to more stories from this author as well as more stories in this series.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Traumatic holidays

An FBI agent and his business woman wife underwent a traumatic experience, where one of them admitted a need for help bit the other didn't. This led to misreading each other's intentions and the eventual demise of their young marriage.
The woman began working at a jewelry store that belonged to a dying man, from whom she purchased the business. They're robbed, and the woman's phobia of guns freezes her - she wants to let the robbers have the safe code but she can't speak due to the extreme fear. The older man who stayed on when she bought the business gets shot, fortunately, not fatally.
There has been a string of smash and grab jewelry store robberies on which her ex-husband has been the agent, but this robbery doesn't fit the pattern, and his gut tells him this is a personal attack against his ex, something his partner disputes.
As he works the case, there is a sort of hang over of old hurts that gets in the way at first, but he comes to realize he should have seen a therapist after the incident as she suggested, and realizes his miscommunications, however unintentional, have driven a wedge between them.
As the FBI works to solve the 2 types of robbery, and the couple are thrown together again, will they find the real culprit in the robbery? Will they perhaps at least come to a better understanding of what drove them apart, perhaps even reconcile to some extent? Or will they remain estranged, perhaps even become more estranged, in the process of finally discovering who robbed the store and why?

[Lisette Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Hostage (FBI Christmas Trilogy Book 1)
By Jane Blythe
5 Stars

Christmas Hostage by Jane Blythe, is the first installment of the FBI Christmas Trilogy. It is a romantic suspense and second chance love story. This book has enough suspense to keep you on your toes, break the case and hope that love prevails. Hannah and Tom haven’t seen each other in three years. Their heartbreaking separation was due to a horrible crime which caused Hannah to deal with the pain and Tom not able to help her through it. Hannah owns a jewelry shop that eventually becomes the next burglary stop for a group of thieves, that have been tormenting the neighborhood with a series of burglaries. Tom is the lead investigator and is caught by surprise when he sees that Hannah’s has fallen victim to the serial burglaries. Only Tom notices a difference in the burglary at Hannah’s store versus the rest of the burglaries in the neighborhood. Is the burglary at Hannah’s store personal and will Tom be able to protect her before it is too late? Will Hannah and Tom finally bring their walls down and finally allow the past go and show that they still love each other?

Jane Blythe took me on a roller coaster ride. This story went into a direction I never thought it would take. This book will have you at the edge of seat and trying to guess who caused the burglary to Hannah’s store. Can’t wait to read the second installment to this series.

[PepperP0t · Rating 4 out of 5]

WARNING: This read contains descriptive abuse, phobia and possible triggers.

It’s all FBI agent Tom Drake can do to keep himself together after hearing the latest Christmas jewelry store heist is his ex-wife, Hannah Buffy’s shop. It’s been three years since the divorce but lack of love and care was not what led to their divorce. Their inability to handle a brutal gang-rape was. The question Tom and his fresh out of the academy partner Chloe have to solve is if it was random or targeted, if he’s seeing differences in the robberies because he wants to step up for Hannah.

During evidence processing, a piece supporting Tom’s theory arises, adding fuel to Tom’s stubborn pursuit. Separately, Tom and Hannah can’t stop revisiting their past, the love they still held for each other while struggling to hide their desire to reconcile and send mixed messages. Meanwhile, the mastermind of Hannah’s robbery waits in the wings for his scheme to turn Hannah’s eyes his way. When the first attempt doesn’t work, it’s time for escalation.

This emotional journey takes a rare look at two victims of an assault as the couple struggles to heal and pick up the pieces of their lives shattered by trauma. The very good leads are both easy to invest in, sympathetic characters trying to get past a life changing event; the storyline holds with appropriate flashbacks.
Rating: 4.5stars

[Amanda Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Hostage
Jane Blythe
5 out of 5 stars
Christmas Hostage by Jane Blythe is the first book in her FBI Christmas Romance Suspense series. This story is about second chances. I have read a few books by Jane and she doesn’t disappoint when it comes to her writing and books. I found myself unable to put the book down until I finished it as I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. Tom and Hannah were married years ago but something tragic ended up ruining their lives and they divorced because both thought it was best for the other. Hannah owns a jewelry store and has moved on with her life, she is doing very well for herself. But when her store is robbed the last person she expected to walk in was Tom and he feels the same way. Tom is the FBI Agent assigned to the case figuring out the jewelry story robberies going on. What happens when they find out that Hannah’s robbery has nothing to do with the other cases? Will Hannah’s life be in danger and can he protect her before it’s too late? Will they both be able to figure out if they can move past their hard past and try again? You can’t help but fall in love with both of these characters, they are strong in their own ways. They have a chemistry that is off the charts even years later. I highly recommend reading this story to find out what happens between the two.

[Angela Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Hostage is not your usual fluffy Romantic Christmas story, it is full of grit and suspense and is a great gripping book until the last page. After one tragic night will Tom and Hannah's relationship come back or will it self destruct and cause them both heartache.

The story follows a string of robberies which have occurred, when one night Hannah's Jewellery shop is robbed, although she is a strong character she is cast back to that fateful night while reliving it a shadow from her past walks into her shop, he ex-husband FBI Agent Tom Drake.

Tom is convinced that this robbery is not part of the string of robberies that have occurred but he has to convince his ex-wife it may be personal, but Hannah believes he is just saying it to make her the victim and feel weak again. As the story goes on you are taken through the twists and turns of this exciting book.

I loved this book and the style of writing that Jane Blythe sets the story and then gradually builds up the suspense to the pinnacle of the story. These characters were so rich that you felt you were riding this story with them at every turn. Although the story contained adult themes I felt they added to the story and were not just for the shock factor. This is not the first story I have read by this author and certainly will not be the last.

[m.sds · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't really know how to rate this. This was my first Romantic Suspense book and I expected more suspense. The plot was predictable to me, and both the characters were frustrating. Their miscommunication was honestly ridiculous, I don't even know how else to say it. They literally had opposite views of what was happening and never discussed it, just divorced. I really felt for Hannah, and what she went through was just horrible, but her fixation on being independent felt pointless to me. Since when is a protective husband a bad thing? I understand maybe she felt smothered, but her issue with it just felt superficial to me. She could've discussed these things in her therapy too. I couldn't connect to her regarding this, her feelings about it were never properly explained in my opinion. As for Tom... You are literally an FBI agent. I could see it from 3 blocks away that Vincent/Charles was not your guy lol. The only thing he admitted to was that the accident was his fault, he never even said anything about Hannah's store, and there was literally no proof that he did anything. Tom literally just jumped to conclusions. That was frustrating and annoying, I don't know if that's how it happens in real life, but according to my Criminal Minds repertoire, that ain't it. Regardless, I enjoyed this story. I had some issues with it, but it was overall an entertaining read.

[Ashleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Hostage by Jayne Blthye is the first book book in her new Romantic Suspense series called “The FBI Trilogy”, and it was a home run for a new series. This book focuses on Tom and Hannah, and I can say from the get go that they had a whole heap of issues to work out before they could get their happily ever after. There were several times that I didn’t think they were going to make it, that the book was almost getting tedious in it’s drama, but in the end all of that build up really made for a good read. I was really drawn to Hannah in the beginning, as her character is someone that I would think Id have as a friend in real life, but Tom while he was good looking really made things interesting when he came into Hannah’s life. The numerous ups and downs really kept me as the reader guessing from the beginning until the last page. Jayne Blthye is a new to me author, and I am so glad that I picked this book up. I am sad to see that the other books in this series are several months apart but that just gives me a reason to reread this book when the second one is released. If you are looking for a drama filled, suspense overload book with just the right amount of romance than this is the book for you.

[Michelle Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title:Christmas Hostage
Author:Jane Blythe
Series: Christmas Hostage

Christmas Hostage was a great 5 star read.
Great 2nd chance romance.

We get pulled in right from the beginning. Hannah’s jewelry store is robbed and she witnesses a friend being shot. Tom can’t believe who the owner of the store is when he gets there. It’s his ex-wife the woman he hasn’t been able to forget about.

It may have been three years since they’d divorced, but Tom felt the familiar rush of protective rage flash through him at the thought of anyone hurting Hannah.

There is a not so great history that surrounds these two, that eventually ended in divorce. Tom is determined to find the robbers and keep Hannah safe. As his investigation moves forward Tom finds there is more than he anticipated. Will he figure things out before it’s too late?

Hannah is a very strong character that tugged at my heartstrings with what she endured. Tom was an alpha male and protector. I was glad to see a HEA for these two but it definitely wasn’t easy. This was a thrilling, suspenseful read with some dark elements. There may be some scenes that could be triggers for some. Jane Blythe does a great job with the suspense and mystery and I look forward to reading more from this series.

[Misty Ziegler · Rating 4 out of 5]

****4 Stars****
Christmas Hostage by Jane Blythe

Christmas Hostage by Jane Blythe is a 4-Star romantic mystery with a little Christmas spirit mixed in. This book has violence, suspense, and crime that will definitely keep you interested in seeing where things will go next. The robbery at Hannah’s jewelry store was much more than meets the eye. This is also another traumatic event that connects her and her ex-husband Tom. As an FBI agent, his protective side and interest in fixing things is there, but it’s important in this case that he doesn’t treat Hannah as a victim and instead concentrated on her strength of being a survivor of trauma.

There are a lot of twists and turns in this story. The author did a wonderful job of keeping you guessing and I admit, I was caught by surprise. The characters were well-developed and I found myself rooting for Hannah and Tom in hopes they’d rekindle their past love. This story pulled at my heartstrings and had me wanting both of them to move beyond their past traumas together this time. The secondary characters in the story were all pretty interesting and I was intrigued, but suspicious of all of them. This really was a fun story that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

[Angela Mansfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Hostage is the first book in the FBI Christmas Trilogy by Jane Blythe. It is well written, easy to read and follow, and has a good story line. Jane Blythe delivered a suspense filled story of two people who love each other but have lost their way. Hannah Buffy and Tom Drake are like many of the couples in today’s society, they let their pride and unsaid things get in the way of their relationship and let it tear them apart.
Buffy and Tom experienced a trauma no couple should ever have to go through.
Hannah Buffy is a strong independent woman, she owns her own successful business, and she doesn’t rely on anyone for any kind of support; in business or her personal life. She doesn’t want to be thought of as a victim. She doesn’t want anyone to take care of her.
Tom Drake is an FBI agent, who is used to fixing things. He wanted to fix the hurt Hannah and him were both feeling after that terrible night. Tom was just like any new FBI recruit, didn’t think things through, thought he could handle anything that came his way; until that night. That night changed how he thought and reacted to things.
This is a must read. I had never read any books by Jane Blythe, but I will definitely stock up on any of her books.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Hostage
By Jane Blythe

Before getting in to my review just a warning that this book does cover sexual assault and violence which could upset some readers. But on saying that the subject matter I feel has been handled sensitively by Jane.
After being brutally attacked Hannah is in the process of rebuilding her life when the unthinkable happens. While she and two of her staff are shutting up her jewellery shop armed intruders gain access to the back of her shop. Om seeing what was about to happen on the store camera Hannah presses the silent alarm. Once the alarm has been activated it doesn’t take long for the police to get there. What Hannah doesn’t expect to see is her ex husband on the scene. Tom was just as shocked to find out what had happened to Hannah and knew he had to handle this carefully. Part of him wanted to hold her, while part of him knew he was there to do a job. Could he mix both together? Tom has never moved on from the relationship breakdown with Hannah, he loved her as much today as what he did before they parted. Could what has happened to Hannah bring them closer together, tear them further apart? Opinion I feel Hannah loves Tom as much as he loves her, but he has a lot of work to do to break through her barriers.

[Crystal's Book World ~ Crystal Cordova · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even start? Hands down Jane Blythe brings it!!! She knows how to get the down to the nitty gritty of Romantic Suspense. I got so absorbed in this book, that I was acting all FBI and trying to figure out who did what. I had my suspicions that Hannah may have been a little behind the scenes of the break in at her jewelry store But as she spent more time with Tom, I knew this was somehow meant to happen to bring these two back into each others life.

Not only will you get the angst and the drama, but Jane knows how to give you the sexy times too. The biggest difference that separates Jane from other authors, she brings a deeper emotional in these scenes. These characters are damaged. They heal with each others touch.

At the end, I was surprised who was behind Hannah's torment. My heart broke for this woman when I learned about her past. Tom was a big part of it and I wanted to put him back together. This page turned had me obsessed to know what happened next. I could not get enough of Christmas Hostage that was perfect!

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hannah is a incredible women especially after being brutally attacked in the past it ruined her marriage and her life at the time but she kept fighting and now shes this fierce independent women lwho should be proud of where she's come. Life throws a test her way when the jewellery store she owns get robbed will all the hard work to get her where she is help her pull through or will it break her? The Fbi gets involved as there has been similar cases happening but the lead fbi agent is no other than Hannah's ex husband Tom. Tom never wanted his marriage to end he didnt want to leave her but after everything that happened he thought she needed time to heal and find herself again. With them being so close together again will they see whats right in front of them or will he walk away again? Omg just wow this story kept me hooked throughout and kept me on my toes! It also had my emotions all over the place was like a mega emotional rollcoaster! I loved the main characters and the storyline was amazing there story certainly isnt easy theres giant obstacles in the way but the question is will they come together again?

[Debi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Hostage (Christmas Romantic Suspense Book 1) by Jane Blythe

5 Stars

This is not my first book by this author, she is a favorite of mine. She has a way of weaving words around and keeps you guessing all the way to the end.

I liked the storyline of this book. The part about these two being married and divorced and not seeing each other for 3 years was great. The reasons for their divorce were heartbreaking and being able to see both sides had me completely torn. The way they were brought back together was the start of a mystery as well as these two trying to sort out what happened to their marriage.

This author has a way of writing about issues that could be serious triggers for some, but in my opinion she handles them all with great care. She also has a way of messing with your mind and leading you down a path where at least a few times when you think you have it all figured out it's like she sticks her foot out and trips you and you can almost hear an evil laugh while you continue on.

I love this author and her books, she adds in aspects to her stories that make me want to read more.

Loved It!!