Targeted Witness

by Jacqueline Adam

A witness under protection.

A serial killer out for revenge.

After the killer she identified finds her in witness protection, artist Cassie Whitfield must go on the run to avoid becoming the next victim. But there’s nobody she can trust—except her ex-boyfriend, former FBI agent Ryan Matherson, who doesn’t know her real identity. Now telling him the deadly truth is her only option if she wants to stay alive…

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

Genres: Romance, Mystery Thriller, Christian Fiction

288 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published November 29, 2022

Reviews

[Kate Pazanin · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're a fan of gripping romantic suspense, Targeted Witness is one to add to your TBR immediately. From the very first chapter, Jacqueline Adams delivers a high-stakes, fast-paced thriller that doesn't let up.

The tension is sharp, the characters are layered, and the chemistry between them crackles with every interaction. The heroine is strong yet vulnerable, and the hero is equal parts protective and complex—exactly the kind of pairing that keeps you turning pages late into the night.

What stood out most was how seamlessly the romance and suspense were balanced. Just when you think you've figured something out, Adams throws in a twist you didn’t see coming. The danger feels real, the stakes are high, and the emotional moments hit hard.

If you love stories with action, heart, and heat, Targeted Witness will not disappoint. Highly recommend for fans of thrillers with a romantic edge!

[Akku · Rating 4 out of 5]

✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4.5✨

✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - already released

✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• witness protection
• second chance romance
• ex-fbi hero
• on the run
• forced proximity
• clean romance
• faith-based themes

✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
This story had the perfect mix of suspense and romance. Cassie is hiding from a killer, and when things go wrong, she ends up turning to the one person she never thought she'd see again—her ex, Ryan. And guess what? He's a former FBI agent. Total main character energy.
The tension kept me hooked from page one. I was literally holding my breath in so many scenes. Ryan being protective, calm, and just overall perfect boyfriend material made me love him even more. And Cassie was so brave and strong even when she was scared.
Their connection was still there, even after everything, and watching them slowly trust each other again was really sweet. I also liked how the story had clean romance vibes but still gave me butterflies. And the twist near the end? Did not see that coming at all
The faith parts were soft and comforting, never preachy. Just gave the story that extra warm feeling. I wish there were a few more scenes of them just being happy together in the end, but overall I really loved itIt’s such a cozy suspense read for anyone who wants a little danger, a little love, and a lot of heart
Thank you so much Hayling bookstrom and author for the free ARC!

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is for Targeted Witness by Jacqueline Adams. rerelease, thanks to @haylingbookstorm

The book is a page-turner, filled with gripping suspense and romance.
Cassie Whitfield is an artist in witness protection after identifying a serial killer known as The Wolf. When The Wolf tracks her down, Cassie is forced to flee and rely on her ex-boyfriend, former FBI agent Ryan Matherson. Ryan doesn't know Cassie's true identity, and she must reveal the deadly truth to him in order to survive.

The novel blends action, danger, and faith. The reader sees Cassie and Ryan navigate the perilous journey, facing a ruthless killer while rekindling their relationship amidst the chaos. The characters are well-developed, and the plot has many twists and turns.

If you're a fan of romantic suspense with a strong element of faith, read Targeted Witness. It's a truly immersive read.

[Chaya & Cinnamon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This mystery has exciting action, a good premise, and is very intense. There are likable main characters, police officer Ryan and chef/artist Cassie, who’s in WITSEC. My mom and I read this suspense novel together which is always great and fun to do.

I like Ryan tipping his hat – that’s a great gesture of respect from men.

Names are important to me and I didn’t like that one of the bad guys’ names is Gabriel and another is Nathan – too nice of names.

I didn’t like Ryan’s wondering of “Couldn’t God see that?” when Ryan thought (incorrectly) Cassie was manipulating him. God can see everything. That was a very disrespectful and arrogant attitude towards God that didn’t fit Ryan’s usual personality.

Love the verses, from the start of the book and interwoven as the mystery unfolds ~

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

They are all great and powerful verses.

Didn’t like Walter Dunlack, FBI special agent in charge. One of the main reasons for the dislike is due to him forcing Ryan to return to the FBI as an agent in order work on the case to save Cassie. Didn’t appreciate Dunlack’s using the phrase “on the warpath” in reference to a bad guy. At the end of the book Ryan said they agreed to him working for the FBI on a contractual basis. I wanted Ryan to go back to being a police officer only.

There were some very difficult parts to read because the situations are, of course, considering what was happening, terrifying and upsetting, such as the really creepy stalker. My mom didn’t want me to read some of it before going to sleep so I wouldn’t have nightmares.

The mystery was very interesting and could hardly put it down with much action going on. The praying and trusting God were very important and realistic. Nice, clean romance.
The entire review for Targeted Witness - yes there's more.

[Sheila · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not care for this book at all. Characters seemed to have hidden agendas. Not very realistic either.

[Christian Shelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book definitely lives up to being suspenseful, with action-packed content paired with a sweet romance. Just when there is a sense of how things will go one way, the book proves that it can go in any other direction. Jacqueline Adam's debut is a thrilling journey that captivates readers as they await the final outcomes for Cassie and Ryan. These characters with their past baggage grapple with their present and their future, and it is rewarding to see how God works in both of their lives as the case unfolds.

If you are looking for a riveting read that will keep you on your toes with an elaborate plot behind the suspense, Targeted Witness is right up that alley. I appreciated that the characters relied on God rather than anything they could do, and that there are pivotal moments where the Bible provides exactly what is needed as Cassie and Ryan try to figure out what's next. The phrase of twists and turns would certainly be an understatement for this book!

Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...

[Dana M · Rating 3 out of 5]

Targeted Witness grabs you from the first chapter and doesn’t let go. Jacqueline Adam does a great job of weaving together suspense and romance, keeping the pace moving and the tension high throughout.

Our FMC, Cassie, is in WITSEC, hiding from an assassin she can help put away — if the authorities can catch him. Through a twist of fate, she’s paired with her ex-boyfriend, Ryan, a former FBI agent. Their chemistry is still strong, but Ryan is still grappling with the secrets that tore them apart. As the truth comes to light, he’s forced to reevaluate what he wants and what he’s willing to forgive.

The romantic tension between them works well, and the plot keeps you guessing. Themes of faith are woven into the narrative, never preachy, but not always seamlessly integrated either. At times, it felt like an afterthought rather than a natural part of the story.

There were a few moments that stretched believability, Cassie fighting off a trained assassin not once, but twice felt a bit unrealistic, and the number of life-threatening situations she endures in such a short time seemed excessive. The HEA was sweet but leaned a little too far into the unbelievable for my taste.

That said, this was a solid and enjoyable debut! If you enjoy clean romantic suspense with a touch of faith and second-chance love, this one’s worth picking up.

Thank you to Hayling Bookstrom and Jacqueline Adam for the eBook copy!

[Paula Legate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was intense with action and a great plot. I loved Cassie, and Ryan. The love story between the two was perfectly weaved throughout the pages. Cassie had witnessed a congressman get murdered. After her statement she was placed in witness protection. Part of the program guidelines is not to tell anyone about your past. Her boyfriend Ryan was a policeman, and knew Cassie was holding something back. He started thinking the worst of her, and broke up with her. When the bad guys found out her location, she had no choice but to tell Ryan. The cover of the book is misleading. The only reason she told Ryan was because he was in her get away car, and he refused to get out. Cassie is a survivor, and can drive just about anywhere, fast. She is brave, and smart and her mind is always thinking of ways to get out of bad situations. After Ryan found out the truth, he felt bad, and was determined to catch the people chasing Cassie. The person behind the attacks has deep pockets and has some Police, FBI and US Marshals on their payroll. Who can they trust? This is a heart pounding, exciting book to read. I loved it.

[Colleen Hurley Jozwiak · Rating 3 out of 5]

I want to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read and review this story for its rerelease!

This story has so much suspense that every detail is crucial to following along in this page turning suspense. Cassie has been fighting for years to stay under the radar, hidden from the media and alive, Ryan just wants her to shine but what he slowly discovers keeps Cassie at a distance.

I had a few complaints I felt the romance part of the romantic suspense wasn’t really built up enough for me to feel it. I felt like they went from ex’s to love of their life too quick for me to believe. I also felt like sometimes the story jumped so quickly if I was a bit distracted I didn’t realize something big had happened and I had to go back and reread.

Otherwise I liked the story. I thought the involvement of Cassie’s passions once everything was revealed was a neat twist.

[Emma B · Rating 4 out of 5]

thank you, Hayling Bookstorm LTD, for the opportunity to read this eARC.

Cassie has been on the run for way too long. Since being witness to a high profile murder, she's had to constantly be looking over her shoulder. While dating Ryan, Cassie so badly wanted to tell him the truth, but knew it would put them both in so much danger. But now it's all caught up to her, and she needs Ryan's help to stay alive. If only he can trust her.

From the very first page, this book had me pulled in. It is a Novella, so a quick easy read, but so much happens you'll want to read it all in one go. It would have been a 5 star read but there was too much religious stuff in there (which I knew there was as it was in the description, but you can do it without laying it on too thick). I loved that Cassie was a strong, independent woman, but she also knew that Ryan would make her even stronger.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced and completely engrossing, I was compelled to finish this book in one sitting (good thing it wasn't too long). There's a mystery/suspence plot woven intricately with a romance that keeps Cassie and Ryan linked throughout the book. Having witnessed a murder, she's now on the run after having been found by the perpetrator (the Wolf). FBI and WITSEC agents, local police, noone is above suspicion for Cassie as she fears for her life while trying to shield others from the fall-out. Once you pick up this book you'll be hooked by the realism Jacqueline portrays in its pages. I will definately be reading more of her work.

I was fortunate to receive a gift copy of this book and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine keeping a secret that will either keep you safe or kill you.

Cassie has been in witness protection for several years. While starting over in a new town she is unable to divulge this fact to anyone, especially to her boyfriend, Ryan, a police detective, thus causing ripples in their relationship. What ensues is inevitable danger to Cassie leading to her confession of the truth. ,, can they thwart this threat, achieve justice and resolve their relationship?

A fast-paced novel that will draw you in and keep you guessing. Between three departments of law enforcement, can they manage to keep her safe? This is a thrilling and enjoyable read…I am pleased to have had the opportunity to read and offer my honest and voluntary review.

[Red Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Targeted Witness is a page turning read that you do not want to miss. It had me captivated from the beginning and is about a witness under protection, but the serial killer is out for vengeance. The author was new to me and I can not wait to read other books from this author. This was written well and every character in it was great. I loved all of the action and romance in the book. It was a clean romantic suspense that was faith based and I highly enjoyed this one. I would recommend to any reader who likes romance or suspense. Thank you to Hayling Bookstorm for this read in exchange of my honest review of Targeted Witness by Jacqueline Adam.

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cassie is so bada$$ and a survivor. Eight years after she enters into the witness protection program, she has settled down comfortably in the small town of Bakerton. She has a new career, close friends and despite breaking up with Ryan, life is good.

However, trouble comes searching for her again. Her past comes back to haunt her, and this time Ryan is here to protect her. I loved how he keeps her safe throughout the entire ordeal.

While the secrets hurt their initial relationship, their second chance was a hard-won one with both of them learning to open up to each other and being there to support each other through the storm.

[Rebecca Billman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie witnessed a horrific scene and is now in witness protection. When the man she identified finds her, Cassie has to run and fast. She doesn’t trust many people, but she goes to her ex-boyfriend Ryan for help. He doesn’t know Cassie’s true identity, but she has to tell him in order to live.

Targeted Witness was an amazing, gripping romantic suspense with equal parts romance and suspense. Definitely a must read!

Tropes:
Kidnapped
Dog Turns Hero
Small Town
Second Chance
Witness Protection
Christmas
Cop MMC

[justscarlettedaily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was not what I was expecting, but it was still enjoyable.

Cassie is such a strong FMC and she spent the whole book fighting for her life back, not once did she give up.

The suspense is there from the very beginning and the stakes are high all the way through.

There’s a bit of a second chance romance going on in the background, but it’s not the main focus.

Everything does get wrapped up in a nice HEA bow.

[Teresa Pollock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danger, Intrigue, desperation, hope, and love

This book was hard to put down. A murder witnessed, the witness hidden and found. Can the agent assigned to protector keep her safe or will compromised agents kidnap her and succeed in killing her so she cannot testify? Grab this book and find out. So good.

[Folioria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book delivers a perfect mix of edge of your seat suspense and heartfelt romance. I loved the twist of Cassie having to rely on her ex while hiding a major secret. The chemistry between them was real, the danger felt constant, and I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend if you're in the mood for a clean, thrilling escape!

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering what the next page will bring. A lot of twists and turns. Not wanting the book to end, it was well written and action-packed. Full of wonderful characters, inspirational, and unpredictable. I was given a complimentary ARC copy and I highly recommend it.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is full of suspense and tension from the very beginning and doesn't let you go until the end.

I felt so sorry for Cassie, as no matter what she does or where she kept ending up, danger was never too far behind.

This is a non-spicy romantic suspense thriller which will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout, along with wanting to know whether through the chaos Cassie and Ryan do eventually rediscover their feelings for each other, before its too late.

This story was easy to follow and had me hooked from the beginning to the very end.

[Tami Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the debut book by this author and I can't wait for more. She finds herself caught in a mess. Someone is after her but she can't tell the police who or why. He broke up with her because he knows she's hiding something. How is he supposed to do his job to keep her safe if he doesn't know the truth?
Second chance
Wit Sec
Double agents

[Gayle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by this author, and I was just blown away! It was very fast-paced, a book that I HAD to read in one sitting! The romance portion was not overdone at all and was CLEAN and so very sweet. This is going to go on my 5 star shelf, so I'll know to re-read it!

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A debut Christian suspense novel by Jacqueline Adam, the plot revolves around someone in the witness protection program. It has plenty of believable action to keep you reading, and also a surprising villain.

[Elaine. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought I knew who the bad guy was but I was wrong

[Gerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Couldn't put down.

[Laurie Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Targeted Witness was a fast-paced, high-stakes story with a heart-melting romance. Highly recommend.

[Terri Britton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so enjoyed this book. Great characters....great action and drama! Who doesn't like a little romance!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced, realistic, page turner that is hard to put down. Great plot and characters. I loved Cassie and Ryan's story. I will definitely read more of Jacqueline Adam's books.

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Targeted Witness. This is Jacqueline's first book for LIS. I enjoyed it very much. I look forward to reading more of her work This story is well-written, action-packed, and full of intrigue. I know you are going to love it.

Cassie Whitfield is in witness protection. She broke up with her boyfriend because she refused to tell him of her past. It was late when she got off work and her jeep refused to start; she could call Ryan, and he would help her, he was that kind of guy. She didn't need his help. She would walk. There were soon footsteps following her down the path. The man chases her and she runs out into the street into her ex-boyfriend.

Former FBI agent Ryan Matterson was upset with Cassie as she refused to talk about her past. Being in law enforcement he imagined the worst. Now he figures out that she is in WITSEC. Can he keep her safe? Can he keep from falling deeper in love with her?

An exciting journey as they run from the killer that had finally caught up with her. God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and an expected end. God has a plan for you too, a plan for peace and not for destruction even in this time of political unrest and chaos.

[Marcie Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Targeted Witness” is Jacqueline Adam’s debut with Love Inspired Suspense.

Cassie Whitfield is on the run after her identity in witness protection is compromised.
Her ex, Ryan Matherson, knows Cassie has been withholding the truth of who she really is.
But now that someone is after her, she’ll need Ryan’s help to survive.

“Targeted Witness” has an interesting storyline, especially the surprise ending. Cassie is strong-willed and independent and at times annoying. I felt she over-shadowed Ryan and the reader lost the opportunity to know him better.
With that said, I’d still read another Love Inspired Suspense by Ms. Adam.