Christmas Vendetta

Emergency Responders #4

by Valerie Hansen

From USA TODAY Bestselling Author Valerie Hansen

Is she a mistaken target…

or next on an enemy’s hit list?

Sandy Lynn Forrester's Christmas holiday takes a terrifying turn when someone breaks into her home and attacks her roommate…thinking it's her. But no one believes that an imprisoned man from Sandy Lynn's past is behind the attacks—except for her high school heartbreak, ex-cop Clay Danforth. Can she trust Clay to keep her safe in the Ozark wilderness long enough to stop a ruthless criminal’s vengeance?

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

Emergency Responders

Book 1: On the Run
Book 2: Christmas Vendetta

Genres: Romance, Christian Fiction, Romantic Suspense, Suspense, Christmas, Christian, Harlequin

219 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 30, 2021

About the author

Valerie Hansen is the pen name of Valerie Whisenand.

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Although I have been a published author since the mid 1980s, I have been writing women's Christian fiction almost exclusively since 1999.

There is a longer, more detailed bio on my website so there's no need for me to repeat all that here. Right now, I write for all three Love Inspired lines, Romance, Suspense and Historical. I'm delighted to have been included that broadly and besides, it keeps me so busy that I stay out of trouble. Well, mostly.

You'll find me on the LI Historical blog as well as other LI features. If I try to do much more I won't have time to write my books!

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Romantic Suspense with a ton of Action, and this is the fourth book in the Emergency Responders series. This book as action and suspense from the very beginning to the very end, and I feel that the storyline was done well. I did enjoyed the characters in this books. I wish we got more of the mystery, but I did enjoy the action in this book. The romance in this book was so small it was almost not there. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Love Inspired Suspense) or author (Valerie Hansen) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

[Annarella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like Valerie Hansen's style of writing and enjoyed this romantic suspense: fast paced, action paced and grippping.
I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Carla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sandy Lynn Forrester and Clay Danforth were friends as teenagers, but there was nothing beyond that although they had feelings toward one another. Clay joined the AirForce and Sandy Lynn got married. Her marriage was not a good one and her husband was violent and abusive. She pressed charges and he ended up in prison. Fast forward to the present, and Sandy Lynn is living with a friend, Enid. There place is broken into and Enid is violently attached. Sandy Lynn tries to stop the attack and becomes the next target. Clay just happens to be their neighbour and he comes to the rescue. The attacker takes off, but Enid is severely injured. It soon becomes apparent that Sandy Lynn was the intended victim and she is sure it is her ex-husband, Charles, either escaped or let out of prison. She and Clay go on the run to try and prove who is after her. Clay is a disgraced police officer, who left the force after being falsely accused of selling drugs, so that is a secondary storyline. As they spend more time together, their feelings from the past begin to resurface. Will their Christmas end up a celebration or a disaster.

Christmas Vendetta is the 4th book in the Emergency Responders romantic suspense series. I did not read the previous books, but each story is a standalone. I really liked the characters in this story and was rooting for them to figure out what was really going on, as well as for them to figure out that they have feelings for each other. There was action and the story was fast paced, but being a relatively quick read, the characters could have been more developed. The obstacles facing Clay and Sandy Lynn were scary at times, but I loved how Clay stuck around to keep her safe. Sandy Lynn's biggest hurdle is the inability to trust a man after her abusive relationship. Clay was caring and did not push her, but was there when she needed him. Although the book is set at Christmas, there is not much more than that as far as a holiday book goes. A predictable story with a twist, that wraps up neatly at the end.

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5
If you enjoy inspirational suspense, here is one read you will enjoy. Being targeted and having to run for your life is a super scary thing. Pick up this book and see how this heroine handles it. Recommended.

My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via the Net Galley platform.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

I somehow missed this book when it first came out, though I’ve read the rest of the series, so I was thrilled to discover it in audiobook format! Loved the narration — Romy Nordlinger did justice to the tense, action filled plot.

So, reunion romance amidst the chaos of vengeance and danger made for a thrilling read. Clay’s life is already complicated when he runs into (literally) Sandy Lynn again. Loved the pacing in their ‘reluctant return to love’ story, though survival takes the front seat in this taut romantic suspense.

Desperation. Revenge. Betrayal. Corruption. All play a part in this complex plot to create a spine-tingling, edge-of-your-seat thrill of a read.

https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/12/15/c...

[Patrizia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solita storia adrenalinica, ma nel finale mi sembra un po' mancare la spiegazione delle azioni del cattivo "nascosto" (c'è un cattivo ovvio fin dall'inizio, ma anche uno che agisce nell'ombra e io sto parlando di quest'ultimo).

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thoughts. Valerie Hansen has written another winner of a romantic suspense. Set in Springfield Missouri mostly it's an area I'm familiar with and it was nice to see the city again without all the traffic. Although there was plenty of traffic in the story. This is formula suspense with a twist some of which I never saw coming. There wasn't untied threat at the end of the book that left me wondering what happened but otherwise it was well written in a nice addition to your holiday reading this year. Pick up your copy today. I was given a copy free free and all opinions are my own.

[Margie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sandy Lynn Forrester met Clay Danforth when she was living in a foster home and Clay's family lived in the house next door. At the age of sixteen she fell in love with Clay but he broke her heart when he left to join the Air Force. Impulsive by nature, Sandy Lynn made a big mistake after Clay left. She ran away from her foster home and eloped with Charles Hood and endured his abuse for way longer than she should. When Charles went too far Sandy Lynn pressed charges and Charles was sent to prison. Now Sandy Lynn is a teacher and her roommate, Enid, is a nurse. When Sandy Lynn heard strange noises coming from Enid's room in the middle of the night she ran into Enid's room to find a masked man attacking Enid. Sandy Lynn struggled with the attacker and fortunately was saved when a neighbor stepped in and chased the attacker away. Oh no! It couldn't be Clay Danforth! But it was. Why? An ambulance arrived to take Enid to the Emergency Room. When Enid was coherent she indicated that the attacker was really after Sandy Lynn. From that point on danger followed in Sandy Lynn's footsteps and so did Clay who promised to keep her safe.

Clay Danforth left home at eighteen to join the Air Force. Doing so broke Sandy Lynn Forrester's heart. After hearing a suspicious scuffle in the middle of the night Clay raced to his neighbor's apartment where the sounds were coming from and was shocked to find Sandy Lynn hitting a masked man with a golf club. The attacker ran when Clay identified himself as a policeman which he did because he felt that would help diffuse the situation. What was going on? Clay had recently left the Springfield Police Department after being falsely accused of mishandling evidence. He couldn't get involved in the investigation of the attack but he could stick close to Sandy Lynn to keep her safe. He was confident he could keep Sandy Lynn safe, but not so confident he could keep his heart safe.

Christmas Vendetta by Valerie Hansen is the fourth book in her Emergency Responders series. This is an exciting, action-packed suspense story. I really enjoyed meeting the two main characters Sandy Lynn and Clay. They are both very likable characters. Sandy Lynn has an abusive relationship she needs to put in the past before letting Clay in. Clay knew he made a mistake leaving Sandy Lynn when they were younger. I admired his determination to make things up to her and to keep her safe. This is a great addition to the series.

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Cindy Davis- Cindy's Book Corner · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick read, full of suspense, and loaded with action. The story starts with the attack on Enid, which was meant for Sandy, and it turns into the longest day of Sandy's life. So much happens so quickly.

Both Sandy and Clay start to think they are the target of the attacker. As they run for their lives, they bond over their shared experience, and the experiences of their past.

For me, there was so much happening that I had a hard time believing it. As with all Love Inspired stories, the story wraps up neatly, and nothing is left hanging.

Those who enjoy grittier suspense stories will enjoy this one.

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fast-paced suspense novel set in southern Missouri of a young woman who survives an attempted murder simply because her downstairs neighbor hears her scream and comes running up to help her fight off the attacker. But the man isn’t through with her, and the ex-policeman has his hands full trying to keep her alive as the bad guy comes back again and again to finish the job...

[Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was an average Harlequin romantic suspense. I liked the faith aspect, and felt like it was touched on at just the right moments. I do wish the romance had started just a little sooner. It made 5e ending feel slightly rushed.

[ANNETTE · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick read with lots of action and never a dull moment. A good Harlequin novel that has good faith throughout the story

[Liz (Quirky Cat) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Vendetta is the fourth novel in Valerie Hansen's Emergency Responders series. Though, if I'm being honest here, I have not had the fortune of reading the first three novels. However! I had no problem hopping right in here and enjoying every minute of this read.

The moment Sandy Lynn Forrester hears about the attack, she knows it had been meant for her. Over the holiday, her roommate attacked, and it's clear to Sandy Lynn that this was a case of mistaken identity.

Yet nobody will believe Sandy Lynn when she warns of the attacker's identity. Well, almost nobody will. Her old flame is willing to listen, which is fortunate, given that he is an ex-officer. Will he have what it takes to stop this situation from getting worse?

If you're looking for a romantic holiday read that has a heavy dose of suspense, then Christmas Vendetta is the book for you. I would bet that the entire series (Emergency Responders) will be precisely what you're looking for.

It has been a while since I read a book that checked off both suspense and inspirational read, let alone one with romantic elements. It made for a completely different read for me, and I appreciated the change of pace!

Overall, the story is very easy to get into, as Sandy Lynn's backstory is both compelling and straightforward (if only the authorities within the novel believed that!). Despite the tenser moments that come from suspense, this straightforward nature made for a surprisingly relaxing read. Though naturally, the romance helped to ease out all remaining tension.

Thanks to Harlequin Tours and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Read more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Christmas Vendetta. This is book four in the series Emergency Responders. I'm a huge fan of Valerie's work. I'm always thrilled to get one of her books in the mail. This story is well-written, action-packed, and full of suspense. I know you're going to love this one.

Sandy Lynn Forrester wakes up in the middle of the night. She's not sure why but soon realizes her roommate is being attacked. She runs to her room. The attacker swears and Sandy Lynn recognized the voice. How could it be Charles, he's in prison, right? She reaches her friend's golf clubs and attacks him. She is rescued by the man she had almost destroyed

Clay Danforth is asleep when he hears a scuffle upstairs. He hears a woman scream. He hadn't met his neighbors yet but someone is in trouble. He calls 911 and then runs upstairs. He finds the one woman who had broken his heart. Can he keep her safe? He is the only one who believes her ex is out of prison and after her.

A horrifying journey as no one believes her but Clay. God has a plan for these two; a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too; a good plan of peace and not destruction. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in your life.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Christmas Vendetta" is a Christian romantic suspense novel. It's the fourth book in a series but works as a stand alone. Sandy's abusive ex-husband is out to kill her for putting him in prison. Clay, a friend from her childhood whom she had a crush on, saves her but has enemies of his own among the police force. He suspected several were corrupt cops, but they framed him for theft of drugs from the evidence locker, ruining his reputation. Sandy and Clay go on the run as their enemies spread lies and attack them.

The suspense stayed high through as the action was nearly constant from beginning to end. Things wrapped up very quickly, with the bad guys acting in ways which exposed the truth, allowing the good guys to quickly straighten everything out. The main character were developed as the story progressed. They renewed their friendship from the past, recognizing how they've changed and admiring and caring about the other to the point of being romantically attracted. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this exciting suspense.

I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A deadly attacker brings two high school sweethearts back together for a second chance while they fight for their lives.

After a terrifying attack, no one will believe that a vengeful man from Sandy Lynn's past is after her, except for Clay Danforth, her former high school flame.

Clay is courageous, and I admired that he was willing to do whatever it takes to keep Sandy safe, despite the high personal risk on his end. He is a man of his word and protective of Sandy. This is a fast paced read with high stakes and no one to turn to. I liked that Clay and Sandy were able to reconnect through all of this drama and danger, finding that they shared a faith and a lingering connection.

A fast paced read, with attacks coming from all sides it is a twisting read that keeps you on your toes. Actin packed read that keeps you guessing with characters that you can cheer for all the way through!


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Danielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christmas Vendetta by Valerie Hanson is a Love Inspired Romantic Suspense story that takes place at Christmas. Sandy Lynn’s past comes back to haunt her when an intruder nearly kills her roommate. Being rescued by the man she loved years ago just makes everything more complicated.

I enjoyed the suspense side of this story. I kept trying to guess who the bad guy was and the author kept throwing questions to make me doubt whether I’d figured out the mystery. Sandy Lynn has faced a lot in her life, which leads me to a trigger warning for those who struggle with abuse. This darker side was unexpected for an LIS Christmas story.

If you’re looking for a grittier romantic suspense that takes place at Christmas, try Christmas Vendetta.

—
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a non-stop read that keep you entertained till the very end you'll enjoy this book. I loved how fast paced everything was never a dull moment. So the roommate gets hurt when she is mistaken for Sandy and Clay a guy from her past shows up to help her. Now it seems they both are in trouble with someone after Sandy and cops are now after Clay. For the most part they are on the run till things get figured out or the cops/killer get them. I enjoyed getting to know about the characters and seeing how everything played out from the romance to the being on the run. Overall fun read I enjoyed it.

[Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, check out that cover! If that doesn't scream sinister and creepy, I don't know what does. I would've picked this one up just based on the cover. As it happens, the story behind the cover is the kind to keep those pages turning. When I search for romantic suspense, these wonderful inspirational stories sometimes get overlooked because they're buried in the list of so many options. With that in mind, I'm going to have to make sure to search for Valerie Hansen because this one kept me reading straight through to the end. The characters are interesting and the story is thoroughly engaging. If you enjoy romantic suspense, this is one to check out.

[Sue Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Vendetta by Valerie Hansen.
Sandy Lynn Forrester's Christmas holiday takes a terrifying turn when someone breaks into her home and attacks her roommate…thinking it's her. But no one believes that an imprisoned man from Sandy Lynn's past is behind the attacks—except for her high school heartbreak, ex-cop Clay Danforth. Can she trust Clay to keep her safe in the Ozark wilderness long enough to stop a ruthless criminal’s vengeance?
I did enjoy this book. I liked Sandy and Clay. How they were together. Great story. 5*.

[Phylis Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clay needs an apartment and his friend Abe suggests he rents this place. Then once he is moved in he notices one night that the lamp is shaking from a disturbance in the apt above his. He goes to investigate and discovers an old friend lives there. Her name is Sandy Lynn and her roommate is being attacked by someone who thinks Enid is actually Sandy.

Noe Sandy has alot of things happening to her and Clay is going to investigate and help her find out who is trying to kill her.

A really good book

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sandy Lynn Forrester’s abusive ex-husband terrified and abused her, but she has been safe because he is in prison. He has escaped and her rescuer is a blast from the past. This is an action packed mystery as she goes on the run. It is about healing and forgiveness. It is a very enjoyable and inspirational book that shows the courage and bravery of a woman who overcame obstacles in her life to be where she is today.

[Susan Anderson Misey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Packed with action, Christmas Vendetta is an enjoyable, wholesome novel of suspense. It is the fourth book in the series, but the first one I read and it works perfectly as a stand-alone title. The romance between childhood sweethearts is rekindled although Sandy Lynn tries to talk herself into walking away. Despite this, Clay and Sandy Lynn are soulmates who must push through to find their HEA.

[Eden · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am halfway through this book. I am enjoying the storyline but become frustrated about the location details. This story is set in the city off lived in for over 25 years but details and locations have little that matches. One of the fun things about reading a book set in a location you know is the familiar landmarks. If I didn't know Springfield, I'd give this a 5 instead of 4.

[sandy moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Vendetta

I thank God every day foe the gifted writers from Love Inspired. They all bring such good stories. My favorite are the suspense ones. So thank each one of you for sharing your gift.

[Susan Clair Holt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Vendetta

Lots of twists and turns and a great story bring two childhood friends back together when he, a cop, is framed and she is being stalked by her escaped prisoner ex husband. Together they stay alive until things are resolved. Love this author.

[Harlequin Books]

Categories
Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Suspense, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
Emergency Responders (Book #4)

[Harlequin Books]

Categories
Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Suspense, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
Emergency Responders (Book #4)

[Jon · Rating 2 out of 5]

What a entitled obnoxious twat this lady is was hoping the bad guys would of succeeded. Clay was wonderful only reason i gave the book any rating at all.

[Sheila · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was ok, good bit of suspense, ok characters.