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Sun Coast Chronicles #2
Justifiable Means
Larry Milsap is a good cop who's Christian faith is shaken as he faces one of the most difficult decisions of his life involving rape victim and love interest, Melissa Nelson.
320 pages, Paperback
First published May 14, 1996
134 people are currently reading
1088 people want to read
About the author
Terri Blackstock
90 books5,555 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 97 reviews
September 19, 2016
I'm never disappointed after reading a Terri Blackstock book. And this was no different. I have a list of her books to still read, but find myself delaying because I don't want to run out of her books.
For a Christian suspense first published in 1996, this was a great read for me. Yes, some things was predictable, but the suspense still kept me turning pages.
Melissa had a lot to learn in her journey with God. I was glad that she didn't skip the consequences of her actions, but that she learned from that and, how even though we have to live with consequences of our decisions, God still forgives, protects and turns things around for the best.
For a Christian suspense first published in 1996, this was a great read for me. Yes, some things was predictable, but the suspense still kept me turning pages.
Melissa had a lot to learn in her journey with God. I was glad that she didn't skip the consequences of her actions, but that she learned from that and, how even though we have to live with consequences of our decisions, God still forgives, protects and turns things around for the best.
November 22, 2014
Given that this was written back in 1996, I am willing to cut Justifiable Means some slack. That was before we started expecting more from Christian fiction.
As is, it's a very predictable story with an incredibly annoying female main character. Perhaps she seemed worse because I listened to this as an audio book, so every neurotic moment came across in whiny clarity.
Pros:
Clean light thriller.
Gentle romance (for those who need that in their thrillers)
Cons:
Predictable.
Annoying main character (female).
Cheesy storytelling (by today's standards).
Best Suited for Christian readers who like a bit of romance thrown in with some very mild thrills.
Perhaps twenty years ago, I may have enjoyed it more than I did now, and I don't hold that against the author. I'm more than willing to read more of her work, but will probably look for more current novels.
As is, it's a very predictable story with an incredibly annoying female main character. Perhaps she seemed worse because I listened to this as an audio book, so every neurotic moment came across in whiny clarity.
Pros:
Clean light thriller.
Gentle romance (for those who need that in their thrillers)
Cons:
Predictable.
Annoying main character (female).
Cheesy storytelling (by today's standards).
Best Suited for Christian readers who like a bit of romance thrown in with some very mild thrills.
Perhaps twenty years ago, I may have enjoyed it more than I did now, and I don't hold that against the author. I'm more than willing to read more of her work, but will probably look for more current novels.
October 9, 2020
I was at the library looking for a good book to read when I came across Justifiable Means by Terri Blackstock. I was unsure of what this book was going to be about or if I’d like it. The back of the book informed me it was a Christian Fiction and I knew it was about crime, which I’m interested in. In the first couple days of reading I was hooked.
This book is about a girl, Melissa Nelson, who claimed she was raped by a man named Edward Pendergrast. Larry and Tony were the detectives working on this case to determine if a rape took place and to arrest the suspect. Larry helped Melissa find God again and she turned to Him during this hard time. A major plot twist towards the end of the book made me love this book even more.
I recommend Justifiable Means if you’re into fictional crime or mystery. If you’re religious, this book also shows how God is there for you at all times and forgives no matter how bad your sin may be. This book is currently my favorite book and I will definitely read more books written by Terri Blackstock.
This book is about a girl, Melissa Nelson, who claimed she was raped by a man named Edward Pendergrast. Larry and Tony were the detectives working on this case to determine if a rape took place and to arrest the suspect. Larry helped Melissa find God again and she turned to Him during this hard time. A major plot twist towards the end of the book made me love this book even more.
I recommend Justifiable Means if you’re into fictional crime or mystery. If you’re religious, this book also shows how God is there for you at all times and forgives no matter how bad your sin may be. This book is currently my favorite book and I will definitely read more books written by Terri Blackstock.
June 17, 2015
Storyline and characters: okay-ish/meh.
Factual accuracy: deficient. That is not at all how grand juries work. They do not convict or acquit, but rather determine whether there is probable cause for indictment. Witnesses are not cross-examined by defense lawyers (only prosecutors are present). The person(s) being investigated can in fact testify before the grand jury, but other witnesses are not present at the same time, nor is a defense lawyer allowed in the room. The factual inaccuracies would have been greatly mitigated if Blackstock had simply said "jury" (as in trial jury), instead of "grand jury." I'm no legal expert--far from it--but have relatively recently read some suspense novels by former prosecutor Lis Wiehl, who I trust to know what she's talking about on the subject of grand juries.
Maybe 2.5 stars would be more appropriate.
Factual accuracy: deficient. That is not at all how grand juries work. They do not convict or acquit, but rather determine whether there is probable cause for indictment. Witnesses are not cross-examined by defense lawyers (only prosecutors are present). The person(s) being investigated can in fact testify before the grand jury, but other witnesses are not present at the same time, nor is a defense lawyer allowed in the room. The factual inaccuracies would have been greatly mitigated if Blackstock had simply said "jury" (as in trial jury), instead of "grand jury." I'm no legal expert--far from it--but have relatively recently read some suspense novels by former prosecutor Lis Wiehl, who I trust to know what she's talking about on the subject of grand juries.
Maybe 2.5 stars would be more appropriate.
November 9, 2021
The second book in this series. I like how it involves the some of the same characters as in the first, adds more characters but it’s not repetitive.
January 4, 2025
I could not stop reading until I knew what happened. Wow. Such an intense book. Didn’t know what or who to believe.
February 23, 2018
Terri Backstock hits ilanother win for me in this book! Melissa is out for revenge. She fakes a rape to set up her sisters rapist. This story tells how she frames the man and then turns her self in to the police, because God convicts her heart to do right and the detective Larry Milsaps of course may have played a part in her doing right. Melissa ends up in jail and gets right with God. She witnesses to the ladies in jail and changes for the better. Meanwhile Larry Milsaps is missing Melissa like crazy and knows the rapist is in fact a rapist and possible murderer and he follows him. read the book to find out more about what happens.
June 12, 2012
I normally enjoy Blackstock's books so when I found this one at a used bookstore, I picked it up. I was disappointed in this book. To me, detective Millsaps getting involved with the victim, Melissa, was not overly realistic. Normally I'm fine with the unrealistic aspects in books of fiction, but this one just hit me the wrong way. Plus, I was hoping for more mystery and less sappiness.
June 21, 2010
Layer after layer of cheese.
March 23, 2016
Enjoyed this book immensely. Totally engaging from beginning to end.
July 20, 2017
So well written, suspenseful and a good reminder of the limitations of no mobile phones back then !
May 17, 2020
When Larry and his partner are called to the scene of a rape, Larry dreads it. He rarely gets called to one, but when he does the different states they find the victims in is distressing even to a seasoned detective. When they find Melissa, she seems shaken but her mental well being is still strong. She is able to recall even the smallest detail and is able to identify he rapist. She showered after so there is no proof other than her positive id. It's not until Terry starts pointing out little things that Larry starts to wonder if this is the open and shut case he was originally expecting. He can't help but feel drawn to the young woman, and can only pray he won't let his personal interest get in the way of solving this case.
A fast paced book that was hard to put down. You really felt for Melissa and when you found out the master plan it was kind of impressive. Definitely a series worth reading
A fast paced book that was hard to put down. You really felt for Melissa and when you found out the master plan it was kind of impressive. Definitely a series worth reading
March 30, 2018
A violent criminal with a knack for evading justice. A beautiful victim with a secret to hide. Between them stands one good cop, torn between justice and the law.
Melissa Nelson & Detective Larry Millsaps - great characters. Both want the same result. Both go about it different ways.
I like a book with characters of honor. This one had conviction and mistakes, showing how God still works with our human condition.
The plot was gripping, interesting and lightning fast. I stayed glued to the end.
Melissa Nelson & Detective Larry Millsaps - great characters. Both want the same result. Both go about it different ways.
I like a book with characters of honor. This one had conviction and mistakes, showing how God still works with our human condition.
The plot was gripping, interesting and lightning fast. I stayed glued to the end.
March 1, 2021
I enjoyed book one of this series very much, but I wasn't as taken by book #2. I think it was the characters and their behaviour mainly, especially in the first half of the book. I found I could leave the book down and not wonder about what was happening next.
There were also some editing issues that were distracting.
I am happy to say that the last half of the book made up for the first half. It was at exciting and concluded well.
I will read the remainder of the series for sure as I enjoy the author's story lines and well planned out plots in general.
There were also some editing issues that were distracting.
I am happy to say that the last half of the book made up for the first half. It was at exciting and concluded well.
I will read the remainder of the series for sure as I enjoy the author's story lines and well planned out plots in general.
May 20, 2021
This crime novel involves a rape case that appears obvious on the surface but soon Detective Larry Millsaps' investigation finds strange aspects to the "facts" of the accusations. The conflicting evidence and the contrast of clues pulls the reader into doubt and head-scratching inquiries.
Not one of my favorite offerings from Terri Blackstock, but still an enjoyable read. The elements of the plot were a bit unrealistic and the logic of the characters was a little weak, making the novel dip on my overall rating.
Not one of my favorite offerings from Terri Blackstock, but still an enjoyable read. The elements of the plot were a bit unrealistic and the logic of the characters was a little weak, making the novel dip on my overall rating.
April 6, 2021
I am a fan of Terri Blackstock and a friend gave me this series to read. This series was written over 20 years ago so there are some inconsistencies but overall it is a good book and I will continue to read the rest of the series.
The story itself was predictable but there were a few surprises. It was nice to see that everything didn't work out perfectly the first time. There are still consequences to our actions.
The story itself was predictable but there were a few surprises. It was nice to see that everything didn't work out perfectly the first time. There are still consequences to our actions.
July 22, 2017
Justifiable Tale
I enjoyed this less then Book 1. I think I liked the characters Lynda and Jake more. Just couldn't "feel" the desperation of Melissa to do what she did. It was so transparent that she thought she'd get away with it. Liked the ending though with the other characters.
Book 3 in this series sounds more intriguing. About to start reading.
I enjoyed this less then Book 1. I think I liked the characters Lynda and Jake more. Just couldn't "feel" the desperation of Melissa to do what she did. It was so transparent that she thought she'd get away with it. Liked the ending though with the other characters.
Book 3 in this series sounds more intriguing. About to start reading.
July 13, 2018
She set out for revenge, was it justified, for what she set out to do, and then carried it thru. After that much time to finally come out with the truth, seemed weak. The love of the cop, for this damsel. Now, not wanting to ruin his career. Enjoyable, not as suspenseful as some of her other ones are.
April 29, 2024
This book was a little different from most of Blackstock’s books, but I enjoyed the different spin on it. Her characters, as always, exhibit character development throughout the story. The gospel is presented in a concise way drawing the reader to examine their relationships with people and Jesus Christ. Well done.
April 2, 2025
To be honest, I wasn't fond of this book in the beginning. However, it grew on me the further along I got. I found Melissa's character unlikeable in the first third of the book and I could not understand how anyone could fall for someone as manipulative as she was. Once the case began to unravel, the storyline and characters became more likeable. By the end, it was a page-turner.
November 14, 2018
This book made you think about God and how he can use people in our lives to help us. I recommend any book written by Terri Blackstock.
She is a great Christian writer. She has written many books and they all have God in them and are good.
She is a great Christian writer. She has written many books and they all have God in them and are good.
September 29, 2020
It took a bit before I developed interest in the story line, mostly because I thought it would be a love story. But as I read, morals and principles hit a little close to home, and I got a chance to focus on my struggles and doubts. That is why I gave this five stars.
May 8, 2022
Breathtaking
Better than I ever imagined. Excellent author.
There's a reason she is one of my favorites. Could not put this down. Read it one day. What are you waiting for?!?
Get it! Get started.
Better than I ever imagined. Excellent author.
There's a reason she is one of my favorites. Could not put this down. Read it one day. What are you waiting for?!?
Get it! Get started.
April 3, 2024
3.75 stars!!
Great Christian mystery/romance!!
Almost a 4 stars because I loved the storyline and I adore Blackstocks writing, but my only hiccup was the romance didn’t connect with me in the same way it did for the first novel in the series. Great twist!! Overall a good read!
Great Christian mystery/romance!!
Almost a 4 stars because I loved the storyline and I adore Blackstocks writing, but my only hiccup was the romance didn’t connect with me in the same way it did for the first novel in the series. Great twist!! Overall a good read!
November 24, 2024
Absolutely brilliant book!
I absolutely loved this book! I loved all the twists and turns! I especially loved the relationship between Larry and Melissa The only bit I didn't like was Pendergrast dying at the end and not getting time in Jail like he should have!
I absolutely loved this book! I loved all the twists and turns! I especially loved the relationship between Larry and Melissa The only bit I didn't like was Pendergrast dying at the end and not getting time in Jail like he should have!
April 26, 2025
Grace sins every time
Again Terri brought to light the evil heart of humans and the total mess they can make of their lives,but He rescues with Grace. God is a loving Father and reading His Word can sustain life
Again Terri brought to light the evil heart of humans and the total mess they can make of their lives,but He rescues with Grace. God is a loving Father and reading His Word can sustain life
May 24, 2017
Twisty
This book had so many twists and turns until the end it really kept you guessing on who was the victim in this situation
This book had so many twists and turns until the end it really kept you guessing on who was the victim in this situation
August 8, 2017
love love love how book one and two were brought together. Another fabulous series from Blackstock!!!
July 4, 2018
Really enjoyed this Terri Blackstock book. Can't wait to read book three in the series!
September 17, 2018
I really like this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews