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Aftermath
A devastating explosion.
Three best friends are at the venue to hear their favorite band. Only one makes it out alive.
A trunk full of evidence.
When police stop Dustin Webb with a warrant to search his trunk, he knows there’s been a mistake. He’s former military and owns a security firm. But he’s horrified when the officers find explosives, and he can’t fathom how they got there.
An attorney who will risk it all for an old friend.
Criminal attorney Jamie Powell was Dustin’s best friend growing up. They haven’t spoken since he left for basic training, but she’s the first person he thinks of when he’s arrested. Jamie knows she’s putting her career on the line by defending an accused terrorist, but she’d never abandon him. Someone is framing Dustin to take the fall for shocking acts of violence . . . but why?
Three best friends are at the venue to hear their favorite band. Only one makes it out alive.
A trunk full of evidence.
When police stop Dustin Webb with a warrant to search his trunk, he knows there’s been a mistake. He’s former military and owns a security firm. But he’s horrified when the officers find explosives, and he can’t fathom how they got there.
An attorney who will risk it all for an old friend.
Criminal attorney Jamie Powell was Dustin’s best friend growing up. They haven’t spoken since he left for basic training, but she’s the first person he thinks of when he’s arrested. Jamie knows she’s putting her career on the line by defending an accused terrorist, but she’d never abandon him. Someone is framing Dustin to take the fall for shocking acts of violence . . . but why?
336 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2021
653 people are currently reading
6115 people want to read
About the author
Terri Blackstock
90 books5,587 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 819 reviews
April 22, 2021
Terri Blackstock is a go to author for suspense. She doesn't disappoint in Aftermath!
The novel kicks off with action with a bombing at a rock concert. What comes after is the focus on the novel.
Attendee Taylor's mental instability understandably worsens following the bombing. Security firm owner Dustin is wrongfully accused of committing the crime. Dustin's childhood friend Jamie is a lawyer and after many years of no contact, Dustin reaches out to her for help.
The crime happens at the beginning of the novel and the suspense is in figuring out who is behind the bombing. There is also secondary threads of Dustin and Jamie reconnecting, Taylor's struggle with what happened and Dustin's co-owner Travis is holding on tight to his wife that has terminal cancer.
This suspense novel delivers action, likeable characters and an engaging and plausible story line. Add the loveable canine Duke to the mix and this adds up to all that you want in suspense.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
The novel kicks off with action with a bombing at a rock concert. What comes after is the focus on the novel.
Attendee Taylor's mental instability understandably worsens following the bombing. Security firm owner Dustin is wrongfully accused of committing the crime. Dustin's childhood friend Jamie is a lawyer and after many years of no contact, Dustin reaches out to her for help.
The crime happens at the beginning of the novel and the suspense is in figuring out who is behind the bombing. There is also secondary threads of Dustin and Jamie reconnecting, Taylor's struggle with what happened and Dustin's co-owner Travis is holding on tight to his wife that has terminal cancer.
This suspense novel delivers action, likeable characters and an engaging and plausible story line. Add the loveable canine Duke to the mix and this adds up to all that you want in suspense.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
October 8, 2022
A fun faith filled murder mystery!
Definitely not much suspense in this one I’d say, but the high stakes of the bomb investigation made it exciting!
The characters were great, the couple red herrings got me, and I loved how it all resolved.
Most of all, I LOVED the faith content. Prayers, Bible verses, and trusting God’s plan all prevailed here.
I loved it! Highly recommend!
Definitely not much suspense in this one I’d say, but the high stakes of the bomb investigation made it exciting!
The characters were great, the couple red herrings got me, and I loved how it all resolved.
Most of all, I LOVED the faith content. Prayers, Bible verses, and trusting God’s plan all prevailed here.
I loved it! Highly recommend!
May 19, 2021
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
AFTERMATH by Terri Blackstock is a standalone Christian romantic suspense with multiple characters that pull you immediately into this fast-paced read.
Taylor Reid and two of her best friends are attending a political rally/rock concert when the stage explodes. Taylor, in fight-or-flight mode, is able to escape, but when she realizes her friends did not, she is immediately filled with not just grief, but also guilt. Taylor already is living with OCD and this tragedy sets her mind spiraling.
Dustin Webb is the co-owner of a security firm with a fellow ex-soldier. He is pulled over and the police on the word of a tipster and find the same type of explosives used in the bombing in his trunk. He is taken into custody and accused while knowing he is innocent. He calls his childhood friend, who is now an attorney for help.
Jamie Powell is shocked when she receives the call for help from her childhood friend. They have not spoken since he left for basic training even though she tried to keep in touch. She is willing to put everything on the line to defend Dustin because she believes in his innocence as they search for the real bombers.
Jamie and Dustin are strong main characters and their reconnection and faith in each other is strong even after years apart. This is a Christian romance with no sex, but strong emotional connections between the couple and their religious faith. Ms. Blackstock was also able to intertwine Taylor’s story and show her devolving and dangerous ideation yet I always felt empathy for her. The suspense plot eventually led to the real person who set the bombing into motion and was not a surprise which was a little disappointing. It was more of a mystery investigation than there being any actual suspense when you know who did it. There are many serious issues covered, and in my opinion handled well by the author throughout this story such as mental health, cancer, death, grief and forgiveness.
I enjoyed this character driven Christian romantic suspense.
AFTERMATH by Terri Blackstock is a standalone Christian romantic suspense with multiple characters that pull you immediately into this fast-paced read.
Taylor Reid and two of her best friends are attending a political rally/rock concert when the stage explodes. Taylor, in fight-or-flight mode, is able to escape, but when she realizes her friends did not, she is immediately filled with not just grief, but also guilt. Taylor already is living with OCD and this tragedy sets her mind spiraling.
Dustin Webb is the co-owner of a security firm with a fellow ex-soldier. He is pulled over and the police on the word of a tipster and find the same type of explosives used in the bombing in his trunk. He is taken into custody and accused while knowing he is innocent. He calls his childhood friend, who is now an attorney for help.
Jamie Powell is shocked when she receives the call for help from her childhood friend. They have not spoken since he left for basic training even though she tried to keep in touch. She is willing to put everything on the line to defend Dustin because she believes in his innocence as they search for the real bombers.
Jamie and Dustin are strong main characters and their reconnection and faith in each other is strong even after years apart. This is a Christian romance with no sex, but strong emotional connections between the couple and their religious faith. Ms. Blackstock was also able to intertwine Taylor’s story and show her devolving and dangerous ideation yet I always felt empathy for her. The suspense plot eventually led to the real person who set the bombing into motion and was not a surprise which was a little disappointing. It was more of a mystery investigation than there being any actual suspense when you know who did it. There are many serious issues covered, and in my opinion handled well by the author throughout this story such as mental health, cancer, death, grief and forgiveness.
I enjoyed this character driven Christian romantic suspense.
April 3, 2025
An insane thrill ride that moves at breakneck speed!
April 5, 2022
I have never been quite so baffled and disappointed by a book? Terri Blackstock used to be one of my favorite authors, and I always kept an eye out for her books at the library, which is what happened in this case. Her “If I Run” trilogy is one of my favorite crime series of all time, and while I haven’t enjoyed her subsequent books quite as much, I usually have high hopes for a Blackstock book. Well, I picked up this book and hoo boy, was it ever a trip.
There may be spoilers ahead, but I genuinely care so little about this book that I’m not even going to try to sort out spoilers and non-spoilers so read ahead at your own risk.
tw // cancer, death of a parent, suicide, OCD, attempted gun violence
The first quarter of this book was fine: it was unfolding very similarly as other Christian suspense novels, and while I could already tell that it wasn’t going to be as good as the If I Run series, it was still going pretty well.
Then I got to a part where someone makes a mention about not wanting to wear a mask, which would have been fine except this character’s wife was literally dying of cancer, and mask usage has been utilized in cancer care since even before COVID, which was odd but okay. Reading a book by a Christian author, it sometimes comes with the territory. (The way this thought was phrased *did* make it offensive by the way, I’m not being a snowflake. Like if your wife has cancer, **you’re** the selfish one if you complain about wearing a mask because you want to kiss her ~so bad~, okay? SHE HAS CANCER).
Okay, so I mentioned the cancer right? So turns out, she has leukemia, which is known to cause issues with clotting and platelets right, and patients are known to need blood transfusions, right? SO TELL ME WHY RANDOM PEOPLE ARE JUST STOPPING BY THE HOPSITAL TO DONATE BLOOD TO HER??? like at one point someone’s mom’s entire bible study group just stops by the hospital and donates blood to her????? That is **NOT** how blood donations work???? You can’t just donate blood to someone? 1) blood typing??? this is something you learn in 6th grade??? 2) diseases??? like you can’t just stop by and just donate blood to someone who gets it basically immediately??? and 3) that’s not how blood processing works? blood banks exist???
anyway, that threw me off because that broke the reality SO FAST for me
there is a character who has OCD and sees a psychiatrist and is medicated for it. great, mental health representation! oh wait, no, she literally develops a fixation on somebody, GOES TO WALMART TO BUY A GUN, and proceeds to spend the rest of the book trying to kill someone 😭
I started skimming the book after this point so there may be some inaccuracies but some more highlights:
- they just,,,released an alleged terrorist out on bail??? as if he isn’t suspected of killing 50 people and injuring hundreds? they were like ok pay 10K and u can leave?
- the protagonist’s husband died of a WEED OVERDOSE???? and the weed was giving him symptoms like it was meth??? like I don’t know anything about drugs but WHO DIES OF A WEED OVERDOSE
- remember the alleged terrorist?? well ✨thankfully✨ when he went to go visit the hospital, he was allowed to wear a mask, so that no one could recognize him!! an alleged terrorist!! look how nice masks are!!! again, someone’s LITERALLY DYING OF CANCER but it’s all about you I guess and also why are you, as a terrorist, out in public (oh that’s right, you’re here to donate blood to the lady who has cancer. how could I have forgotten)
- when the male lead was trying to figure out who was trying to frame him, he made a list on a notepad, which included . . . .ISIS??????????? WHY WOULD ISIS TRY TO FRAME A RANDOM PERSON???? but thankfully he ruled ISIS out because “ISIS usually took credit when they successfully carried out an attack. it also didn’t fit their usual MO. ISIS terrorist often died in their own terrorist attacks” (it also said that ISIS “were the ones responsible for most of the foreign terrorist attacks in the US, and they didn’t need a specific reason, other than a crowd” which is . . . patently untrue??? ISIS has never attacked within the US?????)
- THEY FOUND THE ANTAGONIST BY REVERSE GOOGLE IMAGE SEARCHING HIM???? AND THEN THEY FOUND HIS MOTIVE (avenging the death of his parents) BECAUSE IT WAS PUBLISHED IN THE “BLAMES” SECTION OF HIS PARENTS OBITUARY???? WHO HAS A **BLAMES** SECTION IN THEIR OBITUARY?????
- imagine you’re writing your loved one’s obituary and you just straight up accuse someone of LITERALLY MURDERING THEM????? LIKE JUST IN THE OBITUARY???
- the lady with cancer dies, and her husband, who’s not a Christian, goes on a whole page ~journey~ thinking about life after death, right, which is pretty normal. a little odd if it weren’t a Christian fiction book, but it’s fine. BUT THEN HE SPOUTS OFF WITH PHRASES SUCH AS “the arbitrary nature of all his beliefs” and “accidental soup that made humans into beings”????? LIKE non-Christians DONT think like that????? has the author ever interacted with someone who’s not a Christian before???
- he also tries to commit suicide, right, because “he didn’t have the spirit’s nudging”???? a) as if being a Christian immediately means you’re no longer suicidal and b) HIS WIFE JUST DIED??? HE THINKS HE HAS NO POINT IN LIVING ANYMORE AND IT MAKES SENSE???
- they sent the SWAT team out to arrest the guy who did the bombing?? not the police or anything??? just a whole SWAT TEAM??? since when did swat teams perform arrests???
- The swat team also literally said “we never intend to hurt anybody” and you KNOW this is a BLM reference
- there was a reference to a Zoom call, just unprompted???
- the protagonist’s foster mother, who physically and mentally abused him for 10 years, came and just randomly apologized to him??? AND HE FORGAVE HER??????
so uhhhhhhhh. in terms of books that have any sort of significance in my life, this one is not one of them. I’m not even trying to critique it as someone liberal, the writing is just NOT GOOD. some of these plot points were clearly not researched (see: the blood donation thing???) and there were definitely plot points that were sprinkled in for the author to make a point.
I read this book while texting Grace Anne, and it . . . blew our minds. what a roller coaster. anyways, if you value any sense of not-reading-books-that-are-poorly-written, this book is not for you. if you want a laugh and also like Christian suspense fiction, perhaps?
so there you go. my review of the latest Terri Blackstock book. what a shame it turned out like this.
There may be spoilers ahead, but I genuinely care so little about this book that I’m not even going to try to sort out spoilers and non-spoilers so read ahead at your own risk.
tw // cancer, death of a parent, suicide, OCD, attempted gun violence
The first quarter of this book was fine: it was unfolding very similarly as other Christian suspense novels, and while I could already tell that it wasn’t going to be as good as the If I Run series, it was still going pretty well.
Then I got to a part where someone makes a mention about not wanting to wear a mask, which would have been fine except this character’s wife was literally dying of cancer, and mask usage has been utilized in cancer care since even before COVID, which was odd but okay. Reading a book by a Christian author, it sometimes comes with the territory. (The way this thought was phrased *did* make it offensive by the way, I’m not being a snowflake. Like if your wife has cancer, **you’re** the selfish one if you complain about wearing a mask because you want to kiss her ~so bad~, okay? SHE HAS CANCER).
Okay, so I mentioned the cancer right? So turns out, she has leukemia, which is known to cause issues with clotting and platelets right, and patients are known to need blood transfusions, right? SO TELL ME WHY RANDOM PEOPLE ARE JUST STOPPING BY THE HOPSITAL TO DONATE BLOOD TO HER??? like at one point someone’s mom’s entire bible study group just stops by the hospital and donates blood to her????? That is **NOT** how blood donations work???? You can’t just donate blood to someone? 1) blood typing??? this is something you learn in 6th grade??? 2) diseases??? like you can’t just stop by and just donate blood to someone who gets it basically immediately??? and 3) that’s not how blood processing works? blood banks exist???
anyway, that threw me off because that broke the reality SO FAST for me
there is a character who has OCD and sees a psychiatrist and is medicated for it. great, mental health representation! oh wait, no, she literally develops a fixation on somebody, GOES TO WALMART TO BUY A GUN, and proceeds to spend the rest of the book trying to kill someone 😭
I started skimming the book after this point so there may be some inaccuracies but some more highlights:
- they just,,,released an alleged terrorist out on bail??? as if he isn’t suspected of killing 50 people and injuring hundreds? they were like ok pay 10K and u can leave?
- the protagonist’s husband died of a WEED OVERDOSE???? and the weed was giving him symptoms like it was meth??? like I don’t know anything about drugs but WHO DIES OF A WEED OVERDOSE
- remember the alleged terrorist?? well ✨thankfully✨ when he went to go visit the hospital, he was allowed to wear a mask, so that no one could recognize him!! an alleged terrorist!! look how nice masks are!!! again, someone’s LITERALLY DYING OF CANCER but it’s all about you I guess and also why are you, as a terrorist, out in public (oh that’s right, you’re here to donate blood to the lady who has cancer. how could I have forgotten)
- when the male lead was trying to figure out who was trying to frame him, he made a list on a notepad, which included . . . .ISIS??????????? WHY WOULD ISIS TRY TO FRAME A RANDOM PERSON???? but thankfully he ruled ISIS out because “ISIS usually took credit when they successfully carried out an attack. it also didn’t fit their usual MO. ISIS terrorist often died in their own terrorist attacks” (it also said that ISIS “were the ones responsible for most of the foreign terrorist attacks in the US, and they didn’t need a specific reason, other than a crowd” which is . . . patently untrue??? ISIS has never attacked within the US?????)
- THEY FOUND THE ANTAGONIST BY REVERSE GOOGLE IMAGE SEARCHING HIM???? AND THEN THEY FOUND HIS MOTIVE (avenging the death of his parents) BECAUSE IT WAS PUBLISHED IN THE “BLAMES” SECTION OF HIS PARENTS OBITUARY???? WHO HAS A **BLAMES** SECTION IN THEIR OBITUARY?????
- imagine you’re writing your loved one’s obituary and you just straight up accuse someone of LITERALLY MURDERING THEM????? LIKE JUST IN THE OBITUARY???
- the lady with cancer dies, and her husband, who’s not a Christian, goes on a whole page ~journey~ thinking about life after death, right, which is pretty normal. a little odd if it weren’t a Christian fiction book, but it’s fine. BUT THEN HE SPOUTS OFF WITH PHRASES SUCH AS “the arbitrary nature of all his beliefs” and “accidental soup that made humans into beings”????? LIKE non-Christians DONT think like that????? has the author ever interacted with someone who’s not a Christian before???
- he also tries to commit suicide, right, because “he didn’t have the spirit’s nudging”???? a) as if being a Christian immediately means you’re no longer suicidal and b) HIS WIFE JUST DIED??? HE THINKS HE HAS NO POINT IN LIVING ANYMORE AND IT MAKES SENSE???
- they sent the SWAT team out to arrest the guy who did the bombing?? not the police or anything??? just a whole SWAT TEAM??? since when did swat teams perform arrests???
- The swat team also literally said “we never intend to hurt anybody” and you KNOW this is a BLM reference
- there was a reference to a Zoom call, just unprompted???
- the protagonist’s foster mother, who physically and mentally abused him for 10 years, came and just randomly apologized to him??? AND HE FORGAVE HER??????
so uhhhhhhhh. in terms of books that have any sort of significance in my life, this one is not one of them. I’m not even trying to critique it as someone liberal, the writing is just NOT GOOD. some of these plot points were clearly not researched (see: the blood donation thing???) and there were definitely plot points that were sprinkled in for the author to make a point.
I read this book while texting Grace Anne, and it . . . blew our minds. what a roller coaster. anyways, if you value any sense of not-reading-books-that-are-poorly-written, this book is not for you. if you want a laugh and also like Christian suspense fiction, perhaps?
so there you go. my review of the latest Terri Blackstock book. what a shame it turned out like this.
June 13, 2021
4.5 stars!
Characters: Dustin, Jaime, Taylor, and Travis were all flawed (some more than others), realistic characters. Though this book was driven more by plot than by characters, the characters were still developed well, and I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened to them.
Language: Clean.
Moral: This book included themes of friendship, family, loyalty, and the importance of prayer.
Plot: The plot was my favorite part of this book because it was unique. Instead of the normal focus on finding and confronting the main villain, this book focused on the effort to clear Dustin's name, one woman's plan to take out whom she believed to be the criminal, and something I can't talk about because it would be a spoiler. You'll have to read the book to find out. :) Anyway, plenty of suspense and new developments kept the plot moving.
Romance: Clean. Just a few kisses. Actually, for most of the book, the romance was barely there. Dustin and Jaime basically seemed like friends for the majority of the story (which I liked), but of course they had to get together at the end. Their romance seemed a little rushed to me, and I would've rather it have been left out or just hinted at. Then again, I'm a non-romantic. :)
Writing: Terri Blackstock has an enjoyable, straightforward style that keeps the plot moving. I always look forward to reading her books.
Overall: Aftermath was a great read, and I'd recommend it to readers of Christian fiction and suspense.
Characters: Dustin, Jaime, Taylor, and Travis were all flawed (some more than others), realistic characters. Though this book was driven more by plot than by characters, the characters were still developed well, and I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened to them.
Language: Clean.
Moral: This book included themes of friendship, family, loyalty, and the importance of prayer.
Plot: The plot was my favorite part of this book because it was unique. Instead of the normal focus on finding and confronting the main villain, this book focused on the effort to clear Dustin's name, one woman's plan to take out whom she believed to be the criminal, and something I can't talk about because it would be a spoiler. You'll have to read the book to find out. :) Anyway, plenty of suspense and new developments kept the plot moving.
Romance: Clean. Just a few kisses. Actually, for most of the book, the romance was barely there. Dustin and Jaime basically seemed like friends for the majority of the story (which I liked), but of course they had to get together at the end. Their romance seemed a little rushed to me, and I would've rather it have been left out or just hinted at. Then again, I'm a non-romantic. :)
Writing: Terri Blackstock has an enjoyable, straightforward style that keeps the plot moving. I always look forward to reading her books.
Overall: Aftermath was a great read, and I'd recommend it to readers of Christian fiction and suspense.
March 23, 2021
This story had everything I want in a book. There were characters that I started to care about and wanted to know how things turned out for them. It had a romance of sorts with a love twist. Then it had the mystery/thriller part that has me turning the pages. The author even finished it off with somewhat of a happy ending. Bittersweet is still sweet right?!
The beginning was a little slow though. picking up about a third of the way through. Then the speed was decent, with the end a little intense.
I liked the last book I read from this author and I also enjoyed this one. I'll have more of her books to my reading list! I suggest you do the same!
The beginning was a little slow though. picking up about a third of the way through. Then the speed was decent, with the end a little intense.
I liked the last book I read from this author and I also enjoyed this one. I'll have more of her books to my reading list! I suggest you do the same!
May 17, 2021
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.This is my second time reading a Christian suspense, and I had a great time. It wasn’t preachy. There was mention of prayer and a few bible quotes, but it did not take over the story. Blackstock delivered a suspenseful story riddled with emotions, which enthralled me from start to finish.
The story introduces army veteran Dustin Webb who was arrested and charged for in relation to a bomb explosion at a political rally. An explosion which killed twenty (20) people and injured hundreds. His first call after his arrest was to his childhood friend turned lawyer Jaime Powell. Despite not being in contact with each other for fifteen years, Jaime never hesitated in offering to defend him. Despite the mountain of evidence stacked against him, starting with the explosives found in the trunk of his car, Jaime believed in his innocence. This may prove to be her most difficult case as she races against to clock to find the real perpetrator and prove Dustin’s innocence.
At the centre of the story is an innocent man being framed for an act of terrorism. Then there was Taylor, a survivor, her sanity hanging by a thread, who suffers from survivor’s guilt. She wants justice for her friends who died in the explosion, even if meant taking matters in her own hands.
The author pulled me into the lives of the characters, and in doing so elicited feelings of empathy for them, the villain included. The story gave me a glimpse in to Dustin and Jaime’s past. I also got a look into the villain’s life and the reason for his actions. I may not have agreed with the actions, but I understood the reasons. However, I had a hard time with his decision to frame someone else.
Although classified as a romantic suspense, the romance was negligible. While reading I sensed the chemistry which existed between Dustin and Jaime. However, they never acknowledged their feelings for each other until the end. The mystery as to whom was behind framing Dustin was easily solved. However, it did not take away from my enjoyment of the story. Taylor and her quest for justice kept me on the edge of my seat and had me flipping the pages.
Besides the suspense, Aftermath also had some heartbreaking moments that would likely make readers shed a tear or two.
To conclude, Aftermath was a riveting tale, which would appeal to readers of suspense stories.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
The story introduces army veteran Dustin Webb who was arrested and charged for in relation to a bomb explosion at a political rally. An explosion which killed twenty (20) people and injured hundreds. His first call after his arrest was to his childhood friend turned lawyer Jaime Powell. Despite not being in contact with each other for fifteen years, Jaime never hesitated in offering to defend him. Despite the mountain of evidence stacked against him, starting with the explosives found in the trunk of his car, Jaime believed in his innocence. This may prove to be her most difficult case as she races against to clock to find the real perpetrator and prove Dustin’s innocence.
At the centre of the story is an innocent man being framed for an act of terrorism. Then there was Taylor, a survivor, her sanity hanging by a thread, who suffers from survivor’s guilt. She wants justice for her friends who died in the explosion, even if meant taking matters in her own hands.
The author pulled me into the lives of the characters, and in doing so elicited feelings of empathy for them, the villain included. The story gave me a glimpse in to Dustin and Jaime’s past. I also got a look into the villain’s life and the reason for his actions. I may not have agreed with the actions, but I understood the reasons. However, I had a hard time with his decision to frame someone else.
Although classified as a romantic suspense, the romance was negligible. While reading I sensed the chemistry which existed between Dustin and Jaime. However, they never acknowledged their feelings for each other until the end. The mystery as to whom was behind framing Dustin was easily solved. However, it did not take away from my enjoyment of the story. Taylor and her quest for justice kept me on the edge of my seat and had me flipping the pages.
Besides the suspense, Aftermath also had some heartbreaking moments that would likely make readers shed a tear or two.
To conclude, Aftermath was a riveting tale, which would appeal to readers of suspense stories.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
August 11, 2023
Terri hasn’t disappointed me yet. Top tier pacing, strong faith elements and a beautiful romance subplot. I would have liked to see some characters have a faith arc. But given the page count and intense plot it makes sense that it wasn’t more of that aspect. I highly recommend
March 30, 2021
Wow! What a ride this book was. I mean seriously from the very beginning there’s an explosion, and it doesn’t let up until the very end. Dustin Webb is wrongly accused of being a bomber for an event he didn’t even know about. Then he calls his childhood friend, Jamie who is now a criminal lawyer, and asks her if she’ll represent him, and from the get-go, she believes in his innocence. I raced through this book to find out that yes! Dustin Webb was innocent, but it took some twisty turns to get there. I liked the lingering friendship that remained between Jaime and Dustin all those years, even though it was kind of hinted at that there could be more between them. I liked that Jaime had no doubt about the kind of guy that Dustin was. Really liked this one!
My gratitude to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for my copy! All opinions expressed are mine alone.
My gratitude to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for my copy! All opinions expressed are mine alone.
November 16, 2021
WHOA!!!! I mean, seriously, just WHOA!!!! Nail-biter, edge-of-your-seater, heart-hammerer and every other 'er' you want to insert. Literally a read-in-one-gulp suspense. And I speak from experience. I sat down to read one chapter (one!) and didn't get up until I reached the end.
Blackstock knows how to craft a story full of action and intrigue without shortchanging on characterization or relationships. It felt like we had all the time in the world to explore every emotional nuance despite the staccato beats of frenzied suspense tightening the plot into a tangled web that left me in an agitated, high-alert state all the way through.
Reading Aftermath reminded me of the author's If I Run series -- has the same kind of breathtaking intensity but wrapped up in one book instead of three. Unputdownable!
Blackstock knows how to craft a story full of action and intrigue without shortchanging on characterization or relationships. It felt like we had all the time in the world to explore every emotional nuance despite the staccato beats of frenzied suspense tightening the plot into a tangled web that left me in an agitated, high-alert state all the way through.
Reading Aftermath reminded me of the author's If I Run series -- has the same kind of breathtaking intensity but wrapped up in one book instead of three. Unputdownable!
August 10, 2024
I can always count on Terri Blackstock to provide a quick read. The book started with an explosion and I couldn’t put it down till I knew how it worked out. I love how she works faith into her stories and she has good character development.
May 11, 2021
A Terri Blackstock book is an automatic read for me. I have enjoyed her books for many years. This is another edgy story that starts off with a bang, literally, when a bomb goes off at a presidential political rally in Atlanta. Many are killed but Taylor Reid, one friend out of three attendees, lives and is able to get out. She is left with severe emotional symptoms afterwards, already on medication for OCD. Taylor helps law enforcement as she remembers events of that day.
Dustin Webb and his business partner Travis Webb own a security installation company. They installed a system at a chemical company that was later broken into and bomb materials stolen. They were questioned and cleared. But the day of the bombing, Dustin is pulled over by ATF based on an anonymous tip. Unbeknownst to Dustin, someone planted material in his trunk. His call after being arrested is to a childhood friend and neighbor, attorney Jamie Powell. Jamie immediately hits the pavement trying to prove his innocence. Someone apparently hated the political candidate but why blame Dustin?
This is an intense and emotional story with suspense, revenge, faith, romance that deals with irrational behavior and past hurts. Another great Terri Blackstock story.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
Dustin Webb and his business partner Travis Webb own a security installation company. They installed a system at a chemical company that was later broken into and bomb materials stolen. They were questioned and cleared. But the day of the bombing, Dustin is pulled over by ATF based on an anonymous tip. Unbeknownst to Dustin, someone planted material in his trunk. His call after being arrested is to a childhood friend and neighbor, attorney Jamie Powell. Jamie immediately hits the pavement trying to prove his innocence. Someone apparently hated the political candidate but why blame Dustin?
This is an intense and emotional story with suspense, revenge, faith, romance that deals with irrational behavior and past hurts. Another great Terri Blackstock story.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
May 11, 2021
Aftermath is a captivating, enthralling and action-packed addition to Terri Blackstock’s literary canon and this time Jamie is risking everything for a friend. When army veteran Dustin Webb is accused of setting the bombs that killed over twenty people and maimed many more at a local political rally in Atlanta and is arrested soon after while driving nearby, criminal attorney Jamie Powell is willing to accept the consequences for defending her lifelong friend. They haven’t spoken since Dustin left for basic training 15 years ago, but she’s the first one he thinks of when he’s arrested. When the police pulled him over on the highway, they had discovered four boxes of explosives in the boot of the car pilfered from an ammunition plant ten days earlier; it just so happens that it is the same place where Dustin had recently installed a security system giving him easy access day or night. Jamie knows she’s putting her career on the line by defending an accused terrorist, but she’d never abandon him when he had specifically requested her help. As Jamie investigates his case and starts looking into the people in his life, she realises the facts coming to light could be devastating. Someone is clearly setting him up...but proving it might destroy Dustin more than the accusation itself. It's clear this isn't going to be one of Jamie’s easier cases to solve.
Dustin overcame a very difficult childhood, an issue Jamie supported him through, but how can he overcome this? Who or why would someone wish to frame him for such a heinous crime? It also becomes a much more pressing matter to prove Dustin was set up when Taylor Reid, a victim who survived the attack but lost two friends becomes fixated on either gaining justice or getting revenge and begins stalking him when he is released on bail pending further investigation. This is a thoroughly riveting, compulsive and engrossing read from start to finish; I must admit, I really wasn't expecting it to be so damn difficult to put down. Terri Blackstock’s writing is fluid and magnetic and the mix of action, rapid-fire pacing, palpable tension that often becomes nail-biting and the intriguing mystery at its heart, truly gets the blood pumping as Jamie races to uncover what exactly is going on in a case with political, social and societal importance. It’s full of exciting progressions as the narrative moves followed by twist after twist after twist and the complex, beautifully plotted story thankfully had very little romance despite being in the romantic suspense genre, which suited me down to the ground. A high-quality, non-stop, exceptionally entertaining thrill ride so long as you can suspend some disbelief. Highly recommended.
Dustin overcame a very difficult childhood, an issue Jamie supported him through, but how can he overcome this? Who or why would someone wish to frame him for such a heinous crime? It also becomes a much more pressing matter to prove Dustin was set up when Taylor Reid, a victim who survived the attack but lost two friends becomes fixated on either gaining justice or getting revenge and begins stalking him when he is released on bail pending further investigation. This is a thoroughly riveting, compulsive and engrossing read from start to finish; I must admit, I really wasn't expecting it to be so damn difficult to put down. Terri Blackstock’s writing is fluid and magnetic and the mix of action, rapid-fire pacing, palpable tension that often becomes nail-biting and the intriguing mystery at its heart, truly gets the blood pumping as Jamie races to uncover what exactly is going on in a case with political, social and societal importance. It’s full of exciting progressions as the narrative moves followed by twist after twist after twist and the complex, beautifully plotted story thankfully had very little romance despite being in the romantic suspense genre, which suited me down to the ground. A high-quality, non-stop, exceptionally entertaining thrill ride so long as you can suspend some disbelief. Highly recommended.
May 28, 2021
Aftermath is about 3 friends who are at a political rally when a bomb goes off. Who is the bomber? You have to read it to find out. This was just ok for me. I see I’m in the minority as it has many 4-5 stars. Took me 5 days to read this which is not the norm but I did just start a full time job so I’m not reading as much. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
September 15, 2021
The first book I have read by this author. I did not like it from the begining and that never really changed-the writing just had to be more polished for me. I am in a reading slump and this book really did nothing to end that -----I just have to ride it out lol. I was not crazy about the characters or how the story unfolded I wouls say skip and do not give a spin
February 14, 2021
4.5 stars-- I really enjoyed this novel, even though I anticipated a major twist. The characters are well formed, the plot points engaging, and the different points of view kept the narrative moving. Highly recommended for those who love engaging Christian romantic suspense.
May 29, 2021
I'm a very slow reader and rarely get through a book in three days, but this one kept me wanting just one more chapter! Loved the characters, the subtle faith message, and the page-turning plot.
April 26, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 Stars!!!
I have read 24 Terri Blackstock novels. When I read the first novel I thought ”Hmmm ~this seem predictable”
However, I have read enough of her novels and I know Ms. Blackstock is a ‘Great Story Teller’. I also look forward to a twist as she usually comes up with surprises.
This story starts at a Music Concert which is the opening for the Presidential Rally of Ed Loran a third party candidate hopeful. The concert performers are a popular group with young voters. Three friends Taylor, Desiree and Maria are super excited about the concert and are having fun and busy taking selfies. However, a terrible explosion occurs just as the candidate enters. The friends run for their lives. Only Taylor leaves the building. Taylor is OCD and goes frantic looking for her friends. The search and rescue teams are doing their job and she cannot go back in the building. Her sister Harper comes to take her home. Harper is aware of Taylor’s emotional state and tries to calm her.
Next we have the police pulling over Dustin Webb. They told him they got an anonymous tip and they need to search his car. The search Warrant is on its way. Dustin is confused but sees no problem in allowing the search. They quickly find evidence of bombing materials. Dustin is arrested as a prime suspect for the recent bombing.
Dustin knows he needs a lawyer and calls his childhood friend Jamie Powell who is now a criminal attorney. Jamie hasn’t seen Dustin in years but knows him well enough to know this is a ‘set up’.
Taylor is in and out of this story as she is not giving up on who did this to her friends and once she finds out there is a suspect she goes off the rails. At one point she is having an allergy reaction to her medication. Yikes I have serious allergies and I almost went into anaphylactic
shock as it was too realistic and brought back my memories of 911 calls and rushes to the ER.
Another thread in this story is with Dustin’s business partner Travis. Dustin is very close with Travis and his young family. Dustin is actually at the hospital with Travis as his wife; Crystal is dying of leukemia; when his car in broken in and the evidence is planted. The hospital’s security camera shows this but the too dark to make any identification.
Additional characters are Jamie’s adorable young daughter Avery and Dustin’s equally adorable dog Dude.
My fear is we know who set up Dustin. I was hoping Ms. Blackstock would throw in one of her surprises and I can give my typical reaction of ~ “Oh! I didn’t see that coming!”
Ms. Blackwell never disappoints!! She is one of my favorite authors and I look forward to her next story.
Want to thank NetGalley and Thomas Nelson-Fiction for this eGalley in early form. I received this complimentary eGalley before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.\
Publishing Release Date scheduled for May 11, 2021
I have read 24 Terri Blackstock novels. When I read the first novel I thought ”Hmmm ~this seem predictable”
However, I have read enough of her novels and I know Ms. Blackstock is a ‘Great Story Teller’. I also look forward to a twist as she usually comes up with surprises.
This story starts at a Music Concert which is the opening for the Presidential Rally of Ed Loran a third party candidate hopeful. The concert performers are a popular group with young voters. Three friends Taylor, Desiree and Maria are super excited about the concert and are having fun and busy taking selfies. However, a terrible explosion occurs just as the candidate enters. The friends run for their lives. Only Taylor leaves the building. Taylor is OCD and goes frantic looking for her friends. The search and rescue teams are doing their job and she cannot go back in the building. Her sister Harper comes to take her home. Harper is aware of Taylor’s emotional state and tries to calm her.
Next we have the police pulling over Dustin Webb. They told him they got an anonymous tip and they need to search his car. The search Warrant is on its way. Dustin is confused but sees no problem in allowing the search. They quickly find evidence of bombing materials. Dustin is arrested as a prime suspect for the recent bombing.
Dustin knows he needs a lawyer and calls his childhood friend Jamie Powell who is now a criminal attorney. Jamie hasn’t seen Dustin in years but knows him well enough to know this is a ‘set up’.
Taylor is in and out of this story as she is not giving up on who did this to her friends and once she finds out there is a suspect she goes off the rails. At one point she is having an allergy reaction to her medication. Yikes I have serious allergies and I almost went into anaphylactic
shock as it was too realistic and brought back my memories of 911 calls and rushes to the ER.
Another thread in this story is with Dustin’s business partner Travis. Dustin is very close with Travis and his young family. Dustin is actually at the hospital with Travis as his wife; Crystal is dying of leukemia; when his car in broken in and the evidence is planted. The hospital’s security camera shows this but the too dark to make any identification.
Additional characters are Jamie’s adorable young daughter Avery and Dustin’s equally adorable dog Dude.
My fear is we know who set up Dustin. I was hoping Ms. Blackstock would throw in one of her surprises and I can give my typical reaction of ~ “Oh! I didn’t see that coming!”
Ms. Blackwell never disappoints!! She is one of my favorite authors and I look forward to her next story.
Want to thank NetGalley and Thomas Nelson-Fiction for this eGalley in early form. I received this complimentary eGalley before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.\
Publishing Release Date scheduled for May 11, 2021
February 26, 2023
This book was so good, literally COULD NOT but it down 😍
May 16, 2021
This was a very quick read for me, I just couldn’t put it down!
From the first scene it was mesmerizing. After the *incident*, the story is told from several points of view: Taylor, who was a witness; Dustin, the accused; and Jaime, who is a defending attorney. The connection to the culprit was intricately woven into the plot. I especially liked the reunion between Jaime and Dustin who grew up next door to each other. The health issues of PTSD, OCD and cancer were very well represented and realistic. The story dealt with family, reconciliation and how faith affects our circumstances. It was great to see the growth that Dustin experienced throughout the story. “ The sure knowledge that God had his back filled him with strength laced with calm. He would fight this, but wouldn’t be fighting alone.”
Ms. Blackstock has proved herself again as a wonderful suspense author. One of my favorite writers.
*I won an ebook of this title from Kav at Best Reads. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
From the first scene it was mesmerizing. After the *incident*, the story is told from several points of view: Taylor, who was a witness; Dustin, the accused; and Jaime, who is a defending attorney. The connection to the culprit was intricately woven into the plot. I especially liked the reunion between Jaime and Dustin who grew up next door to each other. The health issues of PTSD, OCD and cancer were very well represented and realistic. The story dealt with family, reconciliation and how faith affects our circumstances. It was great to see the growth that Dustin experienced throughout the story. “ The sure knowledge that God had his back filled him with strength laced with calm. He would fight this, but wouldn’t be fighting alone.”
Ms. Blackstock has proved herself again as a wonderful suspense author. One of my favorite writers.
*I won an ebook of this title from Kav at Best Reads. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
December 24, 2022
Three best friends are a concert and the unthinkable happens. There was a bomb and only one of them makes it out alive. Dustin is on his way home when the cops pulls him over, checking his trunk they find bomb making material. He is arrested for the bombing. The only thing he knows what to do is call his childhood friend Jamie. Working together brings feelings back up to the surface. Can Jamie help Dustin and finally find out why he hasn't contacted her in years? This story was fabulous. There are different plot points happening in this novel but not confusing. All coming together to make an excellent story. The only thing is I did figure this out pretty much right away but it was still a great book to read because there are some really great twist and turns. I love Terri Blackstock and her writings. She always puts faith intertwine within each of these characters. I highly recommend this book. It is a shorter read but will have you not wanting to put this book down. I can't wait until the next Terri Blackstock book!!
April 5, 2021
This novel is classic Terri Blackstock, a go-to author for contemporary suspense. An explosion takes place at a local concert hall and Dustin has been framed. Jamie, a lawyer and his childhood friend, is determined to prove his innocence. This was no cookie-cutter, insta-love, overly predictable read. There was actually very little romance. The focus was on solving the crime. The protagonists were well thought out and the antagonists were multifaceted and complex. This made the book feel realistic and less predictable. Biblical messaging was strong and well though out. I wouldn't call this a fast-paced book, but it held my interest from beginning to end. For Terri Blackstock fans, this will be a welcome addition to her extensive collection.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
April 23, 2021
Aftermath by Terri Blackstock is a suspense with a bit of romance about a man who was wrongfully accused of making a bomb and setting it off at a Presidential rally. The hero calls on a childhood friend he hasn't spoken to in years to represent him. There are many layers to this story and because of the key characters in it, it made for an enjoyable read. In fact, I stayed up way past my bed time to finish it.
*I was given a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers and this is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers and this is my honest opinion.
July 12, 2021
Dustin Webb is stopped on an anonymous tip and is found to have explosives in his trunk that he knows nothing about. Jamie Powell was his best friend growing up and is the first person he calls when arrested because she's an attorney. Who is setting him up to take the fall for a crime he didn't commit.
Filled with Blackstock's usual fast paced twists and turns, I enjoyed this suspense read even though I figured out farily early who was behind it all.
Filled with Blackstock's usual fast paced twists and turns, I enjoyed this suspense read even though I figured out farily early who was behind it all.
May 21, 2021
Terri Blackstock never fails to bring forth a story brimming with fast-paced action and delightful suspense. This newest from the author introduces us to two childhood friends who are brought together because of falsely accused crimes. Dustin is the typical neglected teenage bad boy who's shaped up in the army and has discovered who he is since his troubled childhood. Jaime is a defense attorney who is trying to keep her head above water at work and at home as a single mom. When Dustin is framed for theft, arson, and treason, Jaime puts everything on hold to help prove his innocence. In the midst of the action and suspense, the author sensitively addresses grief and suffering that come from watching a loved one deteriorate. The solid long-held friendship between Dustin and Jaime is sweet and tender and is highlighted more so than their budding romance, which I appreciated. I really enjoyed that the characters are deeply layered and that the author pulled emotions other than just suspense into the story line to create a full and well-rounded plot. If you enjoy romantic suspense, you will definitely enjoy this one!
I received the book from Thomas Nelson via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
I received the book from Thomas Nelson via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
May 16, 2021
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
This is my first Terri Blackstock book and it is a real mystery-suspense-thriller with a touch of romance added to the mix. This is a multi-layered character plot that weaves a devastating event with interesting, but flawed characters. The faith aspect was not heavy handed and came across as genuine for the characters, especially since they were facing some of the most trying times of their lives.
A political rally explosion leaves carnage and wreckage that affects the lives of those directly involved and a lot of other people. Taylor is a survivor and she literally crawled her way out of the devastation left in the wake of that bomb blast. She lost her two best friends that day and can't deal with it. Suffering from OCD, she spirals out of control and is determined to see justice done, even if she has to to it herself.
Dustin Webb is pulled over by the cops and he has no idea why. When they open his trunk and boxes of explosives are found, he is dumbfounded as to how they got there. Who could possibly hate him that much as to implicate him in this horrific bombing?
Jamie Powell is a criminal attorney who has just won her first major case. But instead of basking in the victory she get a call from an old, dear friend she hasn't heard from for 15 years telling her he desperately needs her help. Unraveling the tangled web that Dustin finds himself in will require every bit of tenacity and skill, not to mention faith and trust, that Jamie has.
This is my first Terri Blackstock book and it is a real mystery-suspense-thriller with a touch of romance added to the mix. This is a multi-layered character plot that weaves a devastating event with interesting, but flawed characters. The faith aspect was not heavy handed and came across as genuine for the characters, especially since they were facing some of the most trying times of their lives.
A political rally explosion leaves carnage and wreckage that affects the lives of those directly involved and a lot of other people. Taylor is a survivor and she literally crawled her way out of the devastation left in the wake of that bomb blast. She lost her two best friends that day and can't deal with it. Suffering from OCD, she spirals out of control and is determined to see justice done, even if she has to to it herself.
Dustin Webb is pulled over by the cops and he has no idea why. When they open his trunk and boxes of explosives are found, he is dumbfounded as to how they got there. Who could possibly hate him that much as to implicate him in this horrific bombing?
Jamie Powell is a criminal attorney who has just won her first major case. But instead of basking in the victory she get a call from an old, dear friend she hasn't heard from for 15 years telling her he desperately needs her help. Unraveling the tangled web that Dustin finds himself in will require every bit of tenacity and skill, not to mention faith and trust, that Jamie has.
January 21, 2021
“The deafening sound, like some confusing combination of gunshot and lightning bolt, a blast that blacked out the lights and knocked her to the ground.”
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!’”
“‘He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters; He restores my soul.’”
4.25 Stars Out Of 5
I hadn’t read Terri Blackstock in awhile and almost forgot how much I enjoyed her writing style and books. Aftermath is no exception and will surely be a book enjoyed by all readers. The book begins with a bang, or rather an explosion, at a presidential candidate’s rally. Blackstock does an excellent job setting the stage in Atlanta, Georgia with plenty of three dimensional characters. Jamie was a great main character, a widowed lawyer and mother of a daughter. Dustin had a lot of layers as the accused bomber. I liked the dynamic between the two as we learned their history of growing up as next door neighbors. Great spiritual aspects as well.
One thing to note about this great book is that it is less of a whodunnit book (that part is not much of a mystery) but more of a series of events that unfold and how it affects its characters.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and need to make it a priority to reading some of Terri Blackstock’s previous books.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*
For more reviews, please check out my blog!
https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!’”
“‘He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters; He restores my soul.’”
4.25 Stars Out Of 5
I hadn’t read Terri Blackstock in awhile and almost forgot how much I enjoyed her writing style and books. Aftermath is no exception and will surely be a book enjoyed by all readers. The book begins with a bang, or rather an explosion, at a presidential candidate’s rally. Blackstock does an excellent job setting the stage in Atlanta, Georgia with plenty of three dimensional characters. Jamie was a great main character, a widowed lawyer and mother of a daughter. Dustin had a lot of layers as the accused bomber. I liked the dynamic between the two as we learned their history of growing up as next door neighbors. Great spiritual aspects as well.
One thing to note about this great book is that it is less of a whodunnit book (that part is not much of a mystery) but more of a series of events that unfold and how it affects its characters.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and need to make it a priority to reading some of Terri Blackstock’s previous books.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*
For more reviews, please check out my blog!
https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
April 20, 2023
3.5⭐️
Trilogia “Daca fug” m-a cucerit cu fiecare volum tot mai mult, iar când cei de la @actsipoliton au anuntat traducerea si publicarea unui nou roman semnat de autoare, am fost in extaz. Îmi era dor de un titlu semnat de ea si m-am bucurat ca editura mi-a oferit un exemplar, pe aceasta cale, le multumesc din tot sufletul 🤗.
Dustin Webb este arestat pentru posesie de explozibil, desi nu stie cum materialele au ajuns în masina sa, fiind ferm convins ca i s-a înscenat toata schema. Dar cine ar vrea sa ii faca rau, pentru a-i pune în cârca asemenea fapta? Disperat, îsi încalca promisiunea facuta siesi, si o suna pe Jamie Powell, prietena sa din copilarie, acum devenita o avocata de renume.
De ce n-au mai pastrat legatura si cum evolueaza toata nebunia, va ramane sa aflati…va asteapta o poveste încarcata de suspans!
S-a simtit ca mi-a fost dor de scrierea autoarei, n-am putut sa ma desprind deloc de poveste, iar cand eram nevoita sa o fac, tot la carte imi era gandul. Mi s-a desfasurat o poveste captivanta, care ridica numeroase semne de întrebare si nauceste cu ale sale rasturnari de situatie, dar si o poveste frumoasa despre prietenie si nu numai.
Chiar daca destinul i-a despartit pe cei doi, vietile lor luand cursuri diferite, însa incarcate de greutati, tot destinul i-a adus împreuna, de data aceasta într-o lupta pentru dreptate.
Mi-a placut tare mult, desi am prevazut cursul actiunii. M-a destins cu a sa lejeritate si m-a tinut captiva de la început pana la sfarsit, exact cum ma asteptam sa fie ☺️. Clar Terri Blackstock va ramane autoarea mea to go atunci cand vreau un thriller usor, dar în acelasi timp alert si plin de suspans!
Trilogia “Daca fug” m-a cucerit cu fiecare volum tot mai mult, iar când cei de la @actsipoliton au anuntat traducerea si publicarea unui nou roman semnat de autoare, am fost in extaz. Îmi era dor de un titlu semnat de ea si m-am bucurat ca editura mi-a oferit un exemplar, pe aceasta cale, le multumesc din tot sufletul 🤗.
Dustin Webb este arestat pentru posesie de explozibil, desi nu stie cum materialele au ajuns în masina sa, fiind ferm convins ca i s-a înscenat toata schema. Dar cine ar vrea sa ii faca rau, pentru a-i pune în cârca asemenea fapta? Disperat, îsi încalca promisiunea facuta siesi, si o suna pe Jamie Powell, prietena sa din copilarie, acum devenita o avocata de renume.
De ce n-au mai pastrat legatura si cum evolueaza toata nebunia, va ramane sa aflati…va asteapta o poveste încarcata de suspans!
S-a simtit ca mi-a fost dor de scrierea autoarei, n-am putut sa ma desprind deloc de poveste, iar cand eram nevoita sa o fac, tot la carte imi era gandul. Mi s-a desfasurat o poveste captivanta, care ridica numeroase semne de întrebare si nauceste cu ale sale rasturnari de situatie, dar si o poveste frumoasa despre prietenie si nu numai.
Chiar daca destinul i-a despartit pe cei doi, vietile lor luand cursuri diferite, însa incarcate de greutati, tot destinul i-a adus împreuna, de data aceasta într-o lupta pentru dreptate.
Mi-a placut tare mult, desi am prevazut cursul actiunii. M-a destins cu a sa lejeritate si m-a tinut captiva de la început pana la sfarsit, exact cum ma asteptam sa fie ☺️. Clar Terri Blackstock va ramane autoarea mea to go atunci cand vreau un thriller usor, dar în acelasi timp alert si plin de suspans!
July 4, 2021
Aftermath starts with a bang—literally.
A bomb goes off at a rock concert-slash-political rally, and there are multiple fatalities. We see the explosion, then we see Dustin Webb being pulled over and arrested for having four boxes of explosives in his trunk. He calls lawyer Jamie Powell, the girl next door in his teenage years, because he’s going to need help. Jamie finds circumstantial evidence that suggests Dustin is innocent, but that’s not enough to clear him.
They also have to solve the crime …
Aftermath was a fast-paced novel that I read in a day. It was hard to put down, which is always the sign of an entertaining novel. Well, it’s what I look for. I want novels that I have to drag myself away from. I certainly don’t want the opposite, novels that I can’t bring myself to pick up because the main character or the plot simply hasn’t engaged me.
In hindsight, there were a few bugs. Unfortunately, these might be spoilers. Reader, beware.
Taylor (who witnessed the bombing) kind of bugged me as a character, in that she didn’t seem relevant to the central plot question: was Dustin innocent, and would Jamie be able to provide it? As it turned out, Taylor wasn’t necessary, in that Dustin, Jamie, and the police could have found the truth without her.
Next, I am totally over novels where the motive is the character needing money for medical expenses because they (or their parent/spouse/child) is ill. I know it’s all too common in the USA. But it has become a cliché form of tension and conflict, to the point where we visit a sick person in hospital and I wonder if astronomical healthcare costs are going to be the evildoer’s motive.
Also, does the USA not have regular blood banks like the rest of the civilised world? I have honestly never heard of calling friends and family to donate blood for a specific person (besides which, doesn’t the US have rules about how often people are allowed to donate? New Zealand does—I’m only allowed to donate every three months). And what about blood groups—or was Crystal the universal Type O?
I also didn’t see the need for Jamie and Dustin’s entire life histories as soon as they were introduced. I’d say it was boring and unnecessary, except that I skimmed most of it and didn’t feel I missed anything. I guess it’s a case of how established bestselling authors can get away with things newer authors can’t. When I checked, it was only a few pages each. It just felt like longer because it was distracting from the main story.
Perhaps Aftermath shouldn’t work. The fact it does is testament to Terri Blackstock’s ability to pull the reader with excellent writing and compelling situations. It is also good to see a strong yet subtle Christian message. Both Jamie and Dustin are Christians, and one character seriously questions the concept of faith during a time of personal trial. I liked that (even if this was the only character development seen in the novel’s short timespan.
Overall, Aftermath is a solid Christian suspense novel, but isn’t Blackstock’s best.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free book for review.
A bomb goes off at a rock concert-slash-political rally, and there are multiple fatalities. We see the explosion, then we see Dustin Webb being pulled over and arrested for having four boxes of explosives in his trunk. He calls lawyer Jamie Powell, the girl next door in his teenage years, because he’s going to need help. Jamie finds circumstantial evidence that suggests Dustin is innocent, but that’s not enough to clear him.
They also have to solve the crime …
Aftermath was a fast-paced novel that I read in a day. It was hard to put down, which is always the sign of an entertaining novel. Well, it’s what I look for. I want novels that I have to drag myself away from. I certainly don’t want the opposite, novels that I can’t bring myself to pick up because the main character or the plot simply hasn’t engaged me.
In hindsight, there were a few bugs. Unfortunately, these might be spoilers. Reader, beware.
Taylor (who witnessed the bombing) kind of bugged me as a character, in that she didn’t seem relevant to the central plot question: was Dustin innocent, and would Jamie be able to provide it? As it turned out, Taylor wasn’t necessary, in that Dustin, Jamie, and the police could have found the truth without her.
Next, I am totally over novels where the motive is the character needing money for medical expenses because they (or their parent/spouse/child) is ill. I know it’s all too common in the USA. But it has become a cliché form of tension and conflict, to the point where we visit a sick person in hospital and I wonder if astronomical healthcare costs are going to be the evildoer’s motive.
Also, does the USA not have regular blood banks like the rest of the civilised world? I have honestly never heard of calling friends and family to donate blood for a specific person (besides which, doesn’t the US have rules about how often people are allowed to donate? New Zealand does—I’m only allowed to donate every three months). And what about blood groups—or was Crystal the universal Type O?
I also didn’t see the need for Jamie and Dustin’s entire life histories as soon as they were introduced. I’d say it was boring and unnecessary, except that I skimmed most of it and didn’t feel I missed anything. I guess it’s a case of how established bestselling authors can get away with things newer authors can’t. When I checked, it was only a few pages each. It just felt like longer because it was distracting from the main story.
Perhaps Aftermath shouldn’t work. The fact it does is testament to Terri Blackstock’s ability to pull the reader with excellent writing and compelling situations. It is also good to see a strong yet subtle Christian message. Both Jamie and Dustin are Christians, and one character seriously questions the concept of faith during a time of personal trial. I liked that (even if this was the only character development seen in the novel’s short timespan.
Overall, Aftermath is a solid Christian suspense novel, but isn’t Blackstock’s best.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free book for review.
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