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Dangerous #1

Amber Alert

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Sharee Jones didn't plan on falling for a man who resents God, didn't plan on the mutilated dolls or the threatening notes interfering with her Christmas program and the child who's to play baby Jesus. She thought God's hand was in it, but how can it be, when everything she hoped and prayed for is crashing down? His Days of Hiding Are Done

John Jergenson thought taking the maintenance job at his cousin's church meant leaving his guilt-ridden past behind. But he hadn't counted on Sharee and her program, hadn't counted on her laugh or the warmth in her hazel eyes. And he certainly hadn't counted on her wanting to know the truth about his past life. He wants to leave, but Sharee could be in danger; and if he runs again, will he ever forgive himself?

259 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 3, 2015

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464 people want to read

About the author

Linda K. Rodante

26 books241 followers
Linda was born and raised in Florida. She is married with two grown sons, a daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren. At twenty-six, she discovered the miraculous love of Jesus Christ. God blessed her with a passion for the written word—especially mysteries and romantic suspense novels, from Nancy Drew to Agatha Christie, from Dee Henderson to Kristen Heitzman. She speaks about and works against human trafficking. Her author blog is www.lindarodante.com. Her human trafficking and commitment to God blog is at https://lindarodante.wordpress.com/

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5 stars
176 (53%)
4 stars
93 (28%)
3 stars
48 (14%)
2 stars
11 (3%)
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3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Profile Image for Joleen.
2,689 reviews1,227 followers
December 3, 2022
Absolutely nothing in the book had a thing to do with an Amber Alert until nearly the end. Just wanted to put that right out there in case those planning to read this are as confused as I was.

There... now...

Before the so-called Amber Alert, the crux of the story was a tug-of-war with Sharee and John... She being a dedicated Christian warring with her feelings about John, and he being a self-confessed heathen.

Sharee was a member of a church where John was the grounds keeper/handyman. John was someone who was virtually anonymous, wanted to stay private, to work and be left alone. Sharee worked at a ministry helping people either homeless, behind on their bills, or needing other assistance; kind of like a benevolence fund at a church. John came across her twice and felt sorry for her... once when she had a bad break-up with an abusive boyfriend and was holding a bottle of pills (which he mistakenly assumed were to take her life). And the other time was when she was sitting alone needing to get away from a woman who was irritating her to anger. He found her holding a doll that had its eyes gouged out and throat slit. His dog had found it and was bringing it through the woods when he came across her.

This was the first of many dolls that they assumed was a nasty prank aimed at a woman with 6 children. Meanwhile, John and Sharee were thrown together because of a Christmas program she was putting together and the set needed to be built. John and lots of volunteers worked to accomplish this. All the while dolls kept appearing sometimes with threatening notes. The rest of the story was about the dolls, trying to figure out why someone was doing this and about their suspicions of a number of people. And, not once was the police called about the dolls. Pffft!

Sound convoluted? Well, its even more convoluted than that. But you know what? I kinda liked this book.

1) Even though Sharee developed feelings for John, her faith was strong enough to cause her to back away from him often. She had to work with him so her feelings increased, especially when he was kissing her and she was letting him. But she kept backing off, which doesn't often happen in Christian books. Often the romance is allowed to happen, even though the unequally yoked thing is glaringly obvious in the bible. So this author took it seriously.

2) People talked to each other around the church just like people do at church or bible studies. They talk about the Lord, they pray, the pastor always has his wife in the office when he counsels with women... it was all so normal-Christian without being over the top pious and churchy. Now, a non-christian would criticize this book, but I found it absolutely normal for a change. I worked for years at a church, and the conversations, and stopping to pray for things was exactly the way it was at our church. Just normal. Not cringe-worthy at all imho.

3) Sharee kept putting herself in harms way by picking up people she knew needed assistance, had car troubles, and didn't have a decent jacket in the cold weather. John cared for her, often kept his distance, but was concerned about her safety and often told her what to do to be safer, even though she was stubborn. It all seemed so typical... independent only-child who felt the need to do things her way and by herself.

Okay, I can go on and on, but suffice it to say, it was good in many ways, and not so good in some ways, so really I give it 3.5⭐️. The convoluted stuff and complications and the whole interaction with the police was off-putting. Half the time I just had no idea where the author was going with the storyline.

I bought the second book in this series a while back, so I guess I'll work on that one next and see if it's any better. Sigh.
Profile Image for Linda J.B..
156 reviews19 followers
February 28, 2017
The first sentence in Amber Alert by Linda K. Rodante hooked me immediately, in fact it's the crux of the story. We find the main characters in the opening chapter already filled to the brim with emotions that make us wonder why their feelings are at some kind of breaking point. Sharee Jones with her mass of curly red hair to match her intense stubbornness, and John Jergenson who is the maintenance crew of one in their beloved church.

As the story unfolds, more characters are introduced, all in some way or another ending up in the church fellowship, whether they are believers in God, or on the path to find Him.

I loved how Rodante showed the human side of Christians, their flaws, raw emotions and the fear that was building due to terror that was growing among the women of the church. What were the secrets behind those people that made everything finally come to a head?

It was refreshing to see the character of Sharee be strong in her Christian faith, but still had to struggle with the physical aspect that she was feeling towards John.

The pace is fast and descriptions short and sweet, which makes this a perfect suspenseful romance!
Profile Image for Debbie Chatley.
574 reviews28 followers
May 24, 2017
Very well written and well developed characters that I could envision. This story with just the right amount of romance and suspense will have you trying to guess who is responsible. You will meet Sharee and John who at the beginning of the book seem to be complete opposites with different priorities in life but as they begin to spend time together preparing for a Christmas program at the church where John works and Sharee attends, they begin to feel drawn to one another yet they each have their own reasons for resisting this pull. And on top of that they each have their own secrets, so will they be able to open their hearts and share their secrets with one another? And is a future together even possible or is God just testing them? And all the while we are getting to know Sharee and John, someone is pulling pranks that are beginning to take on a sinister note with a member of the church who is expecting and with Sharee. Should they involve the police, will they find the culprit before anything too serious happens. So get your copy today and be prepared to be drawn into the relationship between Sharee and John and trying to figure out the culprit between the pranks.
Author 1 book69 followers
Read
March 28, 2016
The Book:
Interfering with Sharee Jones’s Christmas program is mutilated dolls and threatening notes.
John Jergenson, a maintenance man at church, helps with the Christmas program.
Sharee and John meet and the fireworks begin.

My Thoughts
I liked this book because it showed the “realness” of church life. The good and the bad. Within the pages were Issues that Christians face. Linda did a great job of teaching values through fiction.
I enjoyed the sparks created by two strong willed people. John had issues from his past, Sharee thinking about her future.
Amber Alert is a clean romance, making the characters more interesting.
I found myself turning the pages, wanting to know what’s next.
Profile Image for Marylou Hess.
7 reviews1 follower
May 5, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel of Christian Romantic Suspense. Sharee Jones is the kind of woman we all want our parents and children to think we are – kind, good, hard-working and God fearing. Sharee wants romantic love, too, but only after she's married.
John Jergenson has survived several painful events that caused him to lose some of his faith. As they work to put together a beautiful Christmas program, they bristle at each other. The abduction of baby playing Jesus brings their relationship to a new level.
I would recommend this inspiring novel for readers of all ages from pre-teen to retired.
Profile Image for Linda Rainey.
2,348 reviews22 followers
December 15, 2015
This book keeps you going from the first word until last.
Sharee has a strong faith in God and she is attracted to John who she thinks is not a believer.
The story revolves around building a set for a Christmas ,finding dolls that have been mutilated and left for a new mother.This is an exciting suspense novel and a nice romance and we find God's redeeming grace
I look forward to more novels by this author.
Profile Image for Robin Densmore Fuson.
Author 30 books58 followers
June 21, 2017
The story develops great tension between the characters of Sharee and John. These characters are multi-faceted not one dimensional. I loved the way Linda wove faith into the everyday life of Sharee. The Christmas program Sharee develops with the extensive props was very imaginative. Toward the end of the book I had figured out who the culprit was before it was revealed, but I didn't know why. I recommend this book and look forward to reading the next in the series.
Profile Image for Tamera Lynn Kraft.
Author 18 books429 followers
July 29, 2017
Amber Alert deals with a difficult topic, child abduction, in a way that drew me into the story. This novel has it all. The budding romance Sheree and John is challenging, believable and not predictable. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. The topic of child abduction was covered in a way that didn’t give me nightmares. Overall, this was a very enjoyable read and I recommend it.
250 reviews2 followers
May 19, 2017
Wow!

This is the first book by this author that I have read. Loved it. Has me guessing until the end. The character development progressed well throughout the story. The characters all were flawed but perservered through their faith. Can't wait to read more by this author.
Profile Image for Sharlet Temme.
20 reviews
May 6, 2020
Delightful, engrossing and uplifting

I am new to this author's writing and this book did not disappoint. The story line was engaging and I love the faith lessons. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series. In fact I had ordered it before I finished this one.
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books22 followers
December 7, 2018
My review today is on the Christian Contemporary Romance with Suspense, Amber Alert. I received this book to read. I am not required to review it but it is an awesome book and I want to share it with you. The book is well written, humorous, and full of suspense. Faith is a powerful force in this book and I love that. You are going to love this story.

Sharee Jones is a volunteer at New Life Church and works at Downtown Ministries. She and her friend Lynn are hosting a baby shower but Sharee needs some air. There are a couple of teens who are talking trash about her friend Marci. Marci is about to give birth to her seventh child and everyone seems to have something to say about her and her family. As Sharee is walking about a dog comes running at her carrying something in his mouth. (she's afraid of dogs) It turns out to be a doll that has been mutilated. The eyes are blacked out and a red slash is across the neck. She gives the doll to the maintenance man, John, (the dogs owner) and he carries it off. Sharee returns to the shower. Several threats and more dolls show up. Will someone try to hurt the new baby? Can John help her find the one who is threatening? Is this but a teenage prank? Sharee has a vision for a Christmas program. She must run it by John to see if its feasible. John agrees but it means spending time with the gorgeous man. Can she handle that?

John Jergenson is the Pastor's cousin. He has come to the church to try to heal after the death of his wife three years ago. He doesn't want to be attracted to Sharee. Anyone can see she is a committed Christian and he and God are not on speaking terms. The woman needs a keeper; she needs a new battery for her car, she needs a new coat she's always cold, and she picks up hitchhikers. Someone must watch over her. They find another doll sitting in a car seat. More threats are coming. A doll on Sharee's front door. How can he keep her safe? Who is doing this?

A journey of redemption, trust and love. God has brought them together even though neither one wants a relationship. God has a plan for a hope and a future. You may not have a kidnapper or killer in your life but you do have an enemy. He is out to steal, kill and destroy but God has a plan for you. A good plan and not for evil, give Him your heart and watch what He will do in your life.
Profile Image for Kara.
250 reviews
June 10, 2024
Did Not Finish (DNF) but I want to review because it is bugging me. I made it 19% of the way through the book but decided it wasn't worth my time to finish. The plot had enough potential that I made it that far but was ultimately too scattered and poorly formatted. It starts off at the end of the book, then goes back three months - that's fine, it hooks the reader. However, it is all over the place.

The characters are plentiful and have different motivations but the way their backstories are presented is a mess. The past and present are mixed together without anything to differentiate them and that is frustrating. For example: the two main characters are discussing Bruce and Marcie's history of the car accident two years ago and suddenly Marci is telling Sharee about the accident in a frantic phone call. If you're going to have Sharee remember the conversation, don't just suddenly jump into it. Write it and format it differently so the reader can tell that it's a memory. It was jarring and frustrating.
Profile Image for Hannah Corner.
87 reviews
August 8, 2018
This is a story about bad things happening to good people, and trusting that God's plan far surpasses what we could ever understand. I enjoyed the story line and the 2 main characters, but felt disconnected and confused about the other characters. Who they were and how they fit into the story just wasn't clear at all, especially in the beginning. I felt like I was missing a prequel or a whole beginning of the book somehow, because things weren't explained. There were so many great things about this book though...and the message within just hit me square between the eyes in a few parts. The love story is so sweet and the anticipation built up is magical. There is plenty of suspense and intrigue, which I really enjoyed...along with an unpredictable end. I can't wait to read more about the characters that were mentioned in this book and learn more about their personal stories!
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,119 reviews52 followers
April 29, 2021
3.5/5 stars A baby is missing and Sharee Jones feels responsible. With threats to the mother of the baby and plenty of suspects, this made the book feel suspenseful. I was surprised to find out who took the baby and the abductor’s reasons.

The relationship that Sharee develops with the church’s handyman, John Jergensen, was filled with conflict since both she and John had hurts from their past. There were many things they had to work through in order to move ahead. They each had strengths that the other person needed, which I felt was a good thing.

I listened to the Audible version of the book and thought the narration was good. It was a great way to “read” the book when I was on a long road trip. Thank you to the author for the audiobook. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Mary Baker.
2,160 reviews54 followers
November 15, 2022
With a little more work, attention to the plot, and character development, this might be a good read. As it is, I found both the plot and characters juvenile and contrived. I thought Sharee was a religious snob because she wouldn't date John because he wasn't a Christian although he did a lot to help others, She bugged him a lot about his commitment to the church and Christ. Then the plot was more about the relationship between John and Sharee than about the kidnapping of the baby. The title Amber Alert was somewhat misleading. I think this novel deserves a rewrite!!
7,779 reviews50 followers
June 21, 2020
Sharee and John opposite in so many ways. She is a dedicated christain and he professes not, yet the attraction is there. Things are happening around her, she needed protection and help. With his troubled past he wants to run again ,but he doesn’t want to this time. Have read the series and enjoyed. As well as the narration of the audio I enjoyed. Given audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Profile Image for Robin.
Author 3 books30 followers
February 4, 2022
Very Well Done

I've been enjoying Linda K. Rodante's style in her inspirational suspense romance stories. This one really had me guessing, even though I was fairly certain early in the book who the culprit was. I like how the author weaves the faith element into her stories. She's great at creating characters I'd actually love to meet. They're usually relatable, too.
If you're into clean, inspirational, suspense romance, then I recommend this book.
3,315 reviews48 followers
November 4, 2022
Sharee who is a social worker, because of a very bad relationship is now off men. Keeping herself busy with the upcoming Christmas program, buts need the church's multi-skilled-maintenance-technician's help to do it.

John doesn't want anything to do with Sharee's program. After a tragedy in his own life, he's angry with God and life in particular. When a baby is kidnapped, Sharee with the help of John both decides to play detective.
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,195 reviews52 followers
January 2, 2023
Amber Alert is about the abduction of a baby.
Although there is tension between John and Sharee as they work together in building a set for a Christmas play, there's also budding romance between them. John experienced some tragedies in his life that caused him to be angry at God. Both struggle with surrendering to God and allowing Him to have complete control.
Although there could be a bit more suspense in this story, I enjoyed this clean read.
432 reviews2 followers
August 3, 2023
An unexpected happening brings two together in love.

Enjoyed being with this author again. John and Sharee story was very deep. It was love at first sight for John. Sharee didn't know what think about it all at first. But as they were around each other her love grew for him. They went through many things where they had a hard time trusting God. Looking forward to reading the next story in the series.
Profile Image for Lauren Potts.
59 reviews1 follower
August 9, 2022
Two stories in One

Great storyline. Mercy. Forgiveness. Mission-minded. Mystery. All wrapped in one. Isn't it amazing how God answers prayers and situations.
I believe I can read this again, as there was so much in terms of lessons... Judgemental attitudes and acceptance and more. Thank you Linda!
488 reviews2 followers
May 13, 2017
Fascinating read!

I do recommend this book. Sharee struggles because she falls in love with a man who isn't a Christian. John cares about Sharee but doesn't seem to be getting anywhere with her. Their story has many twists and turns but is riveting.
552 reviews
July 31, 2018
Sharee & John

Sharee Jones has given up on love after a disastrous engagement. She finds herself attracted to John Jergenson, the handyman at her church.

Excellent plotting & characterization.
205 reviews2 followers
July 22, 2022
Good book

It was a good book. It took me a bit to get into it because I felt it kind of just threw you into the middle of things but understood more as I went along. Had a surprising plot twist at the end.
1,933 reviews8 followers
March 5, 2024
Amber Alert

John is running from his past and everything is going good until she needs his help. Her faith is rock solid, his has been tested and is wavering. When truths come out can they realize what they have is true.
4,374 reviews28 followers
March 27, 2018
Good

this book is one has many different people with problems from the past and they don't want to share them.
157 reviews
January 31, 2019
Clean suspense

Enjoyable read with realistic characters. I like the sense of church community the author created and seeing the characters working out their faith in action.
Profile Image for Dawn Nelson.
19 reviews
February 3, 2019
Love the storyline and the characters are familiar and relatable. Would of like more at the end.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews

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