On the Run

Guardian #4

by Traci Hunter Abramson

A Guardian Novel

As one of the top investigative journalists in the nation, Elle Jameson has a knack for uncovering the truth. So when a promising lead points to corruption on a German military base, Elle anticipates a straightforward assignment. But then she stumbles upon a deadly conspiracy beyond anything she’s faced before, and her scrutiny does not go unnoticed. She knows too much, and she can’t be allowed to live. With no idea where to turn for help, she does the only thing she can: she runs.

The guardians, an elite team of undercover agents, have one job: safeguard those under their protection. As a new guardian, Nolan has just received his first solo assignment to help a young woman who just survived an assassination attempt. Within minutes of making contact with the beautiful journalist, however, their location is discovered. Thus begins a game of cat and mouse spanning the globe as the two work to stay ahead of a determined assassin. Nolan fights to buy Elle time to complete her investigation, and what she discovers is a plot that threatens the very fabric of America. In a desperate race against evil, Nolan and Elle are the only ones who can prevent global catastrophe.

Genres: Romance, Suspense, Mystery, Fiction, Contemporary, Clean Romance, Audiobook

296 pages, Paperback

First published October 12, 2020

About the author

Traci Hunter Abramson was born in Arizona, where she lived until moving to Venezuela for a study-abroad program. After graduating from Brigham Young University, she worked for the Central Intelligence Agency for several years, eventually resigning in order to raise her family. She credits the CIA with giving her a wealth of ideas as well as the skills needed to survive her children's teenage years. She is a eight-time Whitney Award winner and has written more than forty bestselling novels. For more information about Traci, click here: https://linktr.ee/traciabramson

Reviews

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is another heart pounding, non-stop action ride! Full of page turning thrills and chills. Just when I thought it was safe to breathe, the author pulls the suspense to the max level. Each time I read a new book by this author, it becomes my new favorite. I love, love how she writes. Traci Abramson truly is a master of thrills and suspense. I love the settings of this book too and of course the characters. Nolan and Elle were amazing. Nolan is a rookie Guardian, but I felt he handled what was thrown at him amazingly well. Elle too was a character that was full of surprises. I am a huge fan of the Guardian books, and this one does not disappoint.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book will keep readers on the edge of the seats, thirsty for more action and adventure from the guardians.

Read full review in the 2020 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I was mesmerized from beginning to end!.So exciting so I suggest that you buckle up your seat belts because this new to me author has done a fabulous job with this book.
So many twists and turns that I didn't see coming and I'm being honest here.
The author has me eagerly turning the pages to see what would happen to Elle next! She didn't disappoint. Some of the scenes were so realistic that I felt drawn into them immediately is how well this author writes!
I will be looking forward to more by her!
Books like this always leaves my heart thumping from the adrenaline. It also leaves me encouraging my favorite characters to get out of the predicaments they find themselves in. This book friends! Oh my! I definitely highly recommend this book! 5 stars for sure!
My thanks to Netgalley/Covenant Communications for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own!

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heavens to Betsy! Y'all better buckle up for this one. It's a fast-paced, fly by the seat of your pants ride. And I loved it! My heart was pulled in completely from the opening scene. I kept hoping that what happened really didn't happen. I didn't want to believe it. But you know when you're reading a suspense novel that it's going to be that...suspenseful and hard things are going to happen.

Elle ends up on the run and running into several problems as she does so. Thankfully the Guardians are aware of her situation and send in Ghost, aka Nolan, to protect her. Between the two of them they're able to keep on the run and find a little bit of down time to research what could have gone wrong, whodunit and why. We even get a glimpse into the bad guy's point of view. I don't know about you but I actually really enjoy reading from the bad guy's POV.

The chases, hiding, explosions, fights, searching, technology uses, the final reveal...everything had me hooked from the very beginning and figuratively bitting my nails. And I really enjoyed the friendship that developed between Elle and Nolan. There's some attraction that sparks between them and I loved the added dimension that gave the novel. Especially how it offset the intensity of everything. The author did a fantastic job tying everything up and giving me a satisfying ending.

I haven't read all of the guardian or saint squad books (crossover series) but I was able to enjoy the story without all the background info. The ending has a bit of a tie in with a previous character from previous books and it was fun. So if you want to read this book without reading all the others I think you'd be fine to do so. But I think you'd probably enjoy reading the other books if you enjoy romantic suspense!

Content: Clean. It's a suspense novel so there are plenty of moments of peril. But with all of the moments of peril it was done in a way that was not overly graphic and that I would label as clean. As for the romance, it is a sweet and clean romance with only some kisses.

I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a thrill to read and kept me engaged from page one.

Elle Jameson is on the run. She witnessed her sister's death and realized that the only thing that kept her safe was an allergy to lemons. Elle is undercover working as an army lieutenant. She is trying to track down a couple of missiles and a drone that disappeared. She finds herself in the custody of an elite group of operatives known and the Guardians.

This book was packed with action from the beginning. I really didn't feel like there was any downtime. Elle and Nolan, aka ghost, are trying to discover who stole the stolen weapons, keep her safe from the people after her, and determine who is the mastermind behind the operation.

I loved every moment that I spent in the book. It has non-graphic violence, romance, and suspense.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5, rounding up
Yes! Lately I've been craving books just like this. Suspenseful and fast paced with enough romance to keep me happy. This author is one of my favorites in the romantic suspense genre so anytime she releases a new book, it's cause for celebration!

I really love this Guardian series. I've been reading them since the beginning and they are all so good. I don't think you need to read this series in order although I'm pretty sure you will be happier if you do. Characters from the previous books pop in and out of the story so it means more if you know them and their history.

Ell and Nolan are two smart people. They have been trained well and they definitely put all their skills to good use in this story! They are literally on the run from beginning to end in this book. The story moves along quickly without a lot of down time and I loved the sense of urgency I felt as I read. I could feel the tensions rising. So good. Nolan is new to the guardian role and his support team really did a great job of helping through the tough stuff. I really like how they all worked together on this case.

The book wraps many things up but still leaves some room for another book. I really hope that is the case. Fingers crossed! I need more romantic suspense books in my life.

Content: peril, violence, death, kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Rookie Guardian Nolan is tasked with protecting Elle, who is literally running for her life after a tragic opener. This story will take you around Eastern Europe & into Finland - which is a first for this series. As always we get small interactions with past characters, I’m a believer that reading these books in order is a must. I did wonder if Nolan would have enough experience to take on the situation he was faced with, but there’s still a lot of assistance from Troy and everything is pulled off in a plausible way.

Full of adventure and intrigue, the real villain of this series is starting to be revealed. But we’re not quite there which means there must be more Guardian novels to come!

I read an early copy and this is my honest review.

[Paige Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book #4 of the Guardian Series. On The Run will leave you breathless. An impossibly fast-paced novel sure to keep you up late. Couldn't put it down.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the Run, we get to meet the newest Guardian, Nolan who we met a little bit in the previous Guardian novel. Elle is an undercover investigative journalist and she surprises even Nolan who has access to a lot. I like this one but there was something missing that I didn't get in the previous ones but I still enjoyed it!

[Lucinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read book 1 in the series, didn't read books 2 and 3, but it didn't affect my understanding of this story.

The book starts with a tragedy for the main character, Elle, which snowballs into forcing her on the run. One of the guardians is appointed to help her, and from there it's almost non-stop action to the end.

Elle and Nolan are thrown together, living in close quarters and spending a lot of time with each other, as he tries to protect her while she completes the investigation. Their relationship turns into friendship and then into something more, despite the problems they face almost constantly.

I liked how the obstacles were solved and the ending was very sweet.

I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

[Sheila (sheilasbookreviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here is an open letter to author Traci Hunter Abramson, you are making me miss a lot of sleep. I start your book and I can't stop and therefore lack of sleep occurs. Truthfully, I know it's my own fault that I love Traci's books and they always keep me entertained. This fast-paced fourth book in the Guardian Series has suspense and romance that keeps you reading and reading.

Elle is a Journalist at the top of her game. She uncovers a possible terrorist attack and then is on the race for her life. Guardian Nolan, or ghost, is sent to protect her. From the moment they meet their lives are in jeopardy as they stay on the run from people trying to kill them.

I loved the action and the romance. I liked having former characters in the series being involved in this novel. The Guardian series is so good and the plot has continued through the four books. I can't wait for the next one! I know that this could be a stand-alone novel but please read the first books in the series and they'll make more sense. This thriller has great characters, loads of action and angst, and will keep you biting your nails until the end.

This clean suspense with narrow escapes, and a few nice kisses thrown in, will make any reader lose a little sleep... just to see what happens next.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a hard time picking favorites. But…Traci Hunter Abramson books always top my list. I love her suspenseful romances. They are the best!

This one features Elle. She’s undercover at a German military base. Things go south fast when her sister is murdered in the very first chapter. Elle does the only thing she knows to do. Run. But someone’s still after her.

That’s when the reader and Elle meet Nolan. Nolan is a Ghost. He’s had to leave his own life because of the danger he was in. So he knows what things will be like for Elle. He puts his life on the line for her and people like her.

I love the plot of this one. It’s fast paced and I didn’t want to put it down. Elle and Nolan are constantly in danger. They tried to stay one step ahead of the bad guys, even though they didn’t know who was a danger. I love the aspect of the reader figuring things out as the characters do.

This author’s books are always over way too fast for me! I can’t wait for her next one.

I was sent a copy of On the Run as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Mara · Rating 5 out of 5]

When investigative journalist Elle Jameson's, sister is killed Elle is put in the protective custody of the Guardians until they can find out who wants her dead and why. Nolan's a fairly new Guardian and protecting Elle is his first solo assignment. Can Elle and Nolan find out who's behind a planned attack and prevent what could lead to WWIII?

Traci Hunter Abramson has long been one of my favorite romantic suspense authors. She knows how to pull me in with the suspense and includes a touch of romance. I read this after several period romances and the nonstop action had my pulse racing. Elle and Nolan (Ghost) are both smart and well trained in their professions, and they'll use all that training figuring out who's behind the theft of a piece of military equipment, and what their deadly plan is.

This is a fast pace story, with a few calm scenes allowing the reader to catch their breath. This book is aptly named as that's what Elle and Nolan find themselves doing for most of the book. I liked how Elle and Nolan worked together, and they built up a trust between them. When your life is on the line you need to be able to trust the person you're working with. I liked how the other Guardians supported Nolan and helped him on this mission. I liked getting cameos of characters from the previous books and hints that there's another book in the series!

There are scenes of peril and danger but this is a clean romantic suspense. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Covenant Communications. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Lauren (thebookscript) · Rating 4 out of 5]

One the run is what occurs with Borne Identity has a love child with an especially entertaining Hallmark movie (and I mean that in the best way) and this is the result.

Sometimes you just need a book that is light, fun, that keeps the action coming, and has a sweet romance. This is that book.

This is the story of woman who, when her cover is blown, flees for her life and comes into contact with a man who becomes her saving grace and ultimately, her guardian. The two then have to get through multiple life threatening events, and solve the gaping holes in an upcoming terrorist attack that will steal many lives. Who do they trust but themselves and how will they uncover the mole in the system?

Tracey used to work for the CIA for several years so you can tell all those little nuggets of wisdom are coming from someone who knows what they are talking about and makes it easy for readers to follow along. This is the first book in this series I have read but I can’t wait to read more and get a bit more background into the guardian program. I’m sure they will be an equally entertaining ride.

[Donna Weaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

ETA--With this reread, the story seems even more pertinent than when this book first came out.

WHAT IT'S ABOUT
As one of the top investigative journalists in the nation, Elle Jameson has a knack for uncovering the truth. So when a promising lead points to corruption on a German military base, Elle anticipates a straightforward assignment. But then she stumbles upon a deadly conspiracy beyond anything she’s faced before, and her scrutiny does not go unnoticed. She knows too much, and she can’t be allowed to live. With no idea where to turn for help, she does the only thing she can: she runs.

The guardians, an elite team of undercover agents, have one job: safeguard those under their protection. As a new guardian, Nolan has just received his first solo assignment to help a young woman who just survived an assassination attempt. Within minutes of making contact with the beautiful journalist, however, their location is discovered. Thus begins a game of cat and mouse spanning the globe as the two work to stay ahead of a determined assassin. Nolan fights to buy Elle time to complete her investigation, and what she discovers is a plot that threatens the very fabric of America. In a desperate race against evil, Nolan and Elle are the only ones who can prevent global catastrophe.

MY TAKE
Another fast-paced story which ultimately ties to the other ones and what will eventually be the bid of one of the side character for the US presidency. That's bound to impact other characters (daughter and son-in-law work for the SEALS) and surprisingly Elle in this story.

4 1/2 stars

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another "can't put it down" read from Abramson

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

With an emotional and action-packed beginning, On the Run will have readers starting off full speed on a suspenseful journey that keeps you sprinting along with the main characters as they are chased and race to thwart the enemy. I am obsessed with author Traci Hunter Abramson's Guardian series and this new novel is no exception. The title fits so well with the pace of this book as the tension remains high throughout the story. Nolan is a newer guardian and it was fun to see how his bit of inexperience grew as he was pushed outside of his normal boundaries as twists and turns created puzzle after puzzle for him. I loved seeing guardian Troy and other familiar characters from Abramson's universe. Elle was dynamic and determined. I don't want to spoil anything, but I was impressed with how the author allowed certain things to happen to Elle that created added measures of danger to the situation. It felt more realistic and I enjoyed the way things played out. The setting of this novel was also new to the series and new to me as I have not read many books that take place in these regions of Europe. The romance was also there so not only did I enjoy the gripping suspense of the story, but there were sweet moments where I just wanted the characters to be able to be in love.
I definitely recommend this novel. I do think it is more enjoyable if read as part of the series. This whole series is five stars to me though, so you will not regret checking them all out.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[The Flipped Page (Susan K) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance, clean, suspense; series but stand alone read
Elle Jameson's suspicion of a crime as she works undercover at an Air Force base abroad. Her subsequent rescue by The Guardians has her running and trying to escape danger with Ghost/Nolan to try to keep her secrets safe and undercover who is involved and behind the murder of her sister and what is going to be done with the secrets she has uncovered. Perfect blend of intense action, moments of digging to uncover the secrets and connections to the criminals, and of course, the attraction between Elle and Nolan. Loved seeing glimpses of other characters from past novels to support the story line in this one. Perfectly paced and detailed, and loved all subterfuge, action, and ov course the romance. Great characters, side characters, and perfect setting abroad after the previous novel set in the US. T.H.A. knows how to right fun, fast paced, action packed fiction with a fun romance in the back ground. More of a 4.5 for me as a reader, but rounding up!
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. My opinions are my own.

[T.K. · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this is a good story, the main characters sometimes behave rather stupidly, belying their training. Also, some of the romance seemed awfully similar to Stephenie Meyer's descriptions (like when Jacob imprints on Reneeseme).

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can a book be so exciting and so romantic at the same time? This was such a great story with wonderful characters and unexpected settings all over Europe. I love pure sweet romance novels with plenty of action!

[Marilee · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very suspenseful story. I visited a few of the places in this story, mainly in Tallinn and Riga, and being able to visualize them while reading the story made it really pop for me. Everything seemed a little more real and I was on the edge of my seat for it.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting adventure.

Elle and Nolan are a great couple. Some threads were tied up, but others left open. I look forward to the next book.

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a well thought out novel. I loved the continuation of the guardians. The technical jargon was a bit too much for me, but I could still understand all the detail that went into the research for the story and appreciate it.

With all the political unrest right now in the country it wasn’t the getaway from reality that I was hoping for in my escape to reading. It was very realistic and well written.

[Sonja · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lots of action. Could make a good TV series.

[Diane Higgins · Rating 4 out of 5]

"On the Run" by Traci Abramson was a good read. This novel had a lot of action and a few twists throughout the way. There were parts of this book that were a little hard to follow, but I think that is because of the author's research and knowledge on the subject. I was very impressed with this. The characters were very well developed and very likeable! All in all, this was a good read.

I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest opinion.

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well written, fast paced, sit on the edge of your seat kind of book.

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Traci Hunter Abramson always does a fantastic job of delivering a romantic suspense with the perfect balance of romance and suspense.

After Elle witnesses her sister's death, an intense adventure ensues. With the help of Nolan (aka Ghost), she sets out to discover who and what is behind all the mayhem. Both Elle and Nolan are full of surprises, as this story twists and turns, and it was so much full to peel away their layers to discover new and exciting things.

The romance was riveting, the sacrifices were heart-wrenching, and the delivery and pacing were spot on.

Content: mild romance; mild moments of peril/danger/suspense; non-descriptive deaths, violence

[Marilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the Run is a fast paced, heart pounding suspenseful adventure! Working undercover, Elle stumbles upon a treasonous secret and is now on the run from the people who want to silence her. Nolan is tasked with protecting her and together they work to uncover the truth.

The plot was well paced and the suspense is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. There were lots of unexpected plot twists and challenges for the characters to overcome. The author's knowledge of spy craft was evident throughout the book. This was my first book from the Guardian series but it was so fantastic that now I plan on binge reading the rest!

I received a complimentary copy but it in no way affected my review.

[Jana Miller · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a solid “meh” for me. I’ve read lots of Abramson’s other books, and I don’t know if I’m just getting tired of the tropes and the same formula, but this one just didn’t capture me. It was interesting enough that I read the whole thing, but the romance and characterization were just not there for me. They were attracted to each other, then suddenly in love. And I wasn’t sure why, because neither of them had enough personality to fall for. I couldn’t really list any character traits if you asked me about the main characters. They were...in danger a lot. Very good at evasive tactics and researching to figure out the conspiracy.
As for the plot, it was totally confusing to me. I couldn’t follow the descriptions of where they were and the action happening, and I REALLY couldn’t follow the conflict itself, which dealt with multiple countries and named no less than 20 possible suspects in the space of a very short time. I just couldn’t follow it.
I just read Chances Are, one of her romances that’s not action, and it was SO good, so maybe I’ll try more of those, because the Saint Squad and Guardian books have gotten a little too formulaic for me.

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

The cheese in this one was pretty thick!