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To protect her loved ones…
Rookie officer Sydney Tucker can handle threats to her life. After all, she’s a law enforcement officer. Even when a killer demands she turn over evidence from a drug bust or he will kill her, she refuses to comply. But things change when he threatens the life of her teenage sister, and Sydney might consider turning over the evidence. If she had what he was looking for. Will she pay the ultimate price—her life?
But even when Sydney tells the killer that she doesn’t possess the evidence, he doesn’t believe her, and his threats continue. Emerson County Sheriff Russ Maddox steps in, putting Sydney and her sibling under his watchful eye. But will his protection be enough? The killer is closing in, picking off the people and places that mean the most to Sydney. A list that now not only includes her but Russ as well.

326 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2011

306 people are currently reading
313 people want to read

About the author

Susan Sleeman

130 books809 followers
SUSAN SLEEMAN is the bestselling author of over sixty romantic suspense and mystery novels with more than two million books sold. She writes romantic suspense novels that are clean with inspiring messages of faith. Readers love her series for the well-drawn characters and edge-of-your-seat action. She graduated from the FBI and local police citizen academies, so her research is spot-on and her characters are real.

In addition to writing, Susan also hosts The Suspense Zone. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, two special sons-in-law, and four amazing grandsons

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 39 books654 followers
July 2, 2011
Title: BEHIND THE BADGE
Author: Susan Sleeman
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
June 2011
ISBN: 978-0-373-44447-2
Genre: Inspirational/romantic suspense

Sydney Tucker is making arrangements to move to a new townhouse complex with her teenage sister, hoping that a fresh start will eliminate some of the teen problems she’s having. But while at the building site, Sydney hears gunshots, and when investigating she finds the killer is after her as well, demanding something that she allegedly took at a drug raid earlier that month.

Russ Morgan is the chief of police and the object of Sydney’s teenage crush. Now they have a more mature relationship. Russ is a divorced man with a seven year old son, and Sydney is her sister’s guardian. Neither have time for a relationship. Not to mention, the killer keeps contacting Sydney demanding whatever mystery object she took, but not telling her what it is.

When Sydney doesn’t meet the demands of the killer, he starts targeting Sydney’s sister. But Nikki doesn’t react well to being told to stay home without a reason and Sydney refuses to tell her why. Russ has his hands full to keep his deputy and her sister safe, especially when they both refuse to cooperate. And when the killer strikes again, it may be too late.

BEHIND THE BADGE is the newest romantic suspense by Susan Sleeman. The book starts with action and doesn’t let up the entire time. I could relate to Sydney’s struggles with her teen sister as I have a daughter the same age and it isn’t fun (though my daughter is a lot more obedient.) And Russ, while shocked by some of Sydney’s behavior toward her sister, stood by her, nonjudgmental, which really spoke a lot about his character.

The suspense was well planned out and interesting and I never guessed who the killer was until it was revealed. If you are looking for a good romantic suspense, then BEHIND THE BADGE is a good book to consider. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $5.50. 215 pages.
Profile Image for John Hanscom.
1,169 reviews17 followers
May 6, 2011
This was OK, but the beginning was improbable - not so much that the female protagonist would have her gun stolen, but that, just after taking her to task for leaving her gun in her car, the male protagonist hen suggest they go off together without her gun. Unfortunately, the whole mystery plot revolved around this. Though the action in the book was enjoyable, it was impossible to get around this initial premise.
Profile Image for Edward Arrington.
1,177 reviews12 followers
August 31, 2023
I find it difficult to relate to being responsible to take care of a teenage sister like Nikki in the particular circumstances in which Sydney finds herself. Sydney certainly had her hands full, in addition to being a rookie police officer trying to make her way in what has been a man’s job traditionally. Although women police officers have become more common over the past forty to fifty years, the playing field still is not level, just as it is not level in numerous other careers. Nikki was unaware of all that had happened with their mother when she was still a child, but Sydney was painfully aware and wanted to guard her sister against ever having to deal with an alcoholic mother again. Obviously, the alcoholic mother had a significant bearing on the way Sydney responded when she thought Nikki had been drinking. Although Sydney had been all goo-goo-eyed at Russ in high school, she is searching deep to avoid acting the same way now that he has come back into her life. She tries to pull away but he is determined to protect her from the person who has committed one murder and now has Sydney in his sights. The most troubling aspect for both Russ and Sydney is that the murderer always knows where she is. If they can figure out how that can be, they might have a chance of bringing him down. Sydney has a strong faith, and I appreciate how her faith is causing Russ to take a closer look at his own. The fast pace and exciting action keep the reader turning pages long into the night. Although Sydney and Russ are the lead characters, as the story progresses, Nikki seems to become more prominent in both good and bad ways. She keeps the reader wondering what she will do next. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
Profile Image for Marylin.
1,307 reviews45 followers
September 5, 2023
I’m really enjoying this new series by Susan Sleeman. There is action, drama, suspense, and bits of romance.
In this story, the team of Shadow Lake Survival is there to help with a very confusing case for Sheriff Russ and Officer Tucker.
Who’s after Sydney and what is it that she’s supposed to have? How can she keep those she loves from getting hurt?
I’ve said this before, but I’m saying it again:
The way Susan Sleeman has written this book will keep you on the edge of your chair. I was captivated from the very first page until the end and I thought I knew who the bad guy really was, but NO, I was wrong. Boy, can this author twist things around so you really must finish the story just to breathe!
I love reading Susan Sleeman's books!
She also weaves beautiful truths and lessons of God’s love in such a way that it isn’t offensive or preachy.
I’m looking forward to reading all the other books in this series and learning how they work through their quirks. As well as see how they let God lead them.
This book not only has action, tension, and suspense but there is a bit of romance . . . well, maybe a little more than a bit.
If you love action, suspense, and intrigue, I highly recommend you pick this book and start reading! However, I need to warn you, that once you start reading, you won’t be able to stop! I stayed up way too late to finish this book. WOW!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
3,548 reviews40 followers
September 6, 2023
We are back with the Maddox brothers and another suspense contemporary Christian story.
This time the story belongs to Sheriff Russ Maddox. Russ has risen from a dark place to be the man he is today. A tragedy drove him to drinking, and it became even worse when it caused his divorce and the custody of his son. Leaving it all behind, he’s been sober for a couple of years, and is doing all he can to be the best dad he can under all the circumstances.
In high school, Sydney Tucker had a crush on Russ but four years difference made Russ turn his back on her crush. Nowadays Sydney is a rookie officer and guardian of her teenage sister. The future seems brighter until she witnesses a murder and the killer is determined to terrorize her in order to get something from her.
Even though frequently at odds, Russ is determined to protect Sydney from the killer and the threat.
In the midst of it all, feelings develop but both have baggage that leaves them with endless responsibilities. Their faith and lack of trust, complicates this relationship.
Will they survive the threats? In the end, will they realize that trusting God and each other could give them a second chance in life and love?
The plot was engaging and though I figured out half way through who was the evil behind the threats, it still was entertaining.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books21 followers
September 13, 2023
My review today is on the Christian Romantic Suspense, Shadow of Night. This is book two in the series Shadow Lake Survival. I'm a huge fan of Susan's work and this is one of her best. This is an incredible story! It's well-written, action-packed, and full of faith. The characters are so real. I know you are going to love it.

Rookie Shadow Lake Police Officer Sydney Tucker stops after her shift to see how her townhouse is coming along. She hears gunshots and then two men's voices. One of the men begs the other not to shoot but she hears the following blast. A man's voice calls out to her. "I know you're here, Officer Tucker. We need to talk about this. C'on out." She has left her gun and her phone in her backpack in her car. She is in trouble. Please protect me. Please! She prayed.

Emerson County Sheriff Russ Maddox sneaks up behind Sydney, puts his hand over her mouth, and wraps his arm around her. He identifies himself and releases her. "Stop! Police! Russ calls out. The man takes off. The man obviously was after Sydney. He must keep her safe.

A terrifying journey with a killer on their trail. God has a plan for these two wounded souls. A plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. A good plan for peace and not for destruction in this time of political chaos. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in your life.
1,760 reviews33 followers
September 7, 2023
I am really liking this family! I love how they stick together and help each other whenever there is an issue or danger. Such is the case when Russ, the sheriff, delves into the murder of a man at a construction site where a police rookie happens to be. Sydney, who had a crush on Russ in high school, is that rookie. I liked Russ a lot. We were introduced to him in the first book of this series and I love finding out his back story! He was married before and has a young son but lost custody of him. He's desperate to regain his relationship with his son and partial custody. Sydney is raising her teenage sister after alcoholic mother wasn't in the picture anymore. It's hard on her. Now, she has a man hunting her down looking for some non-existent evidence that he thinks she has. He's willing to kill others for it to get to her. She and Russ and doing all they can to figure out who this guy is! There is a lot of action, Russ's family helps with protection & CyberTech plus the other deputies in Russ's department. I liked Russ's character a lot. Sydney bugged me a little bit. I don't like it when characters don't learn from their mistakes! Overall, another winner from this author!
Profile Image for Julie Graves.
979 reviews38 followers
October 2, 2023
Officer Sydney Tucker is witness to a murder...sort of. She heard it happen and now the killer is after her. He knows who she is, but she has no clue who he is. When Sydney is framed for the murder Sheriff Russ Maddox is there to help her clear her name.

I have to admit that in the first Shadow Lake Survival book I did not like Russ. He was harsh and rigid. But after reading Shadow of Night I see why he was that way and he really endeared himself to me. I really like his character now! He treated Sydney with respect as a fellow law officer. He has his demons from the past which of course he deals with throughout the story. I love how the author helps each of her characters overcome some deep trauma through faith that brings them closer to God and closer to each other. The suspense is perfect and keeps the reader guessing as to who the killer is and what his motivation is. I'm loving the Maddox brothers and this series so far. If you've never read any of author Susan Sleeman's books I suggest you remedy that! Perfectly strong characters, delicious romance and dangerous suspense. What more could you ask for?
Profile Image for Marilyn Johnson.
601 reviews
November 3, 2023
Love this author and this series. If you are a fan of Susan Sleeman you find she usually incorporates characters from other series into many of her books, it is not that you have to read the other series to get all that is going on, but if you have read them it is nice to keep in touch with them. This is book two of Shadow Lake Survival series, however like most of her series they are stand alone, you do miss a little history but nothing that would keep you in the dark. Just if you read the entire series in order (which they are good books) you get more meaning. I fell in love with the Maddox brothers in book one, so I was excited to get to know Emerson County Sheriff Russ Maddox even better. When Rookie officer Sydney Tucker finds herself in the cross hairs Russ finds himself trying to solve a murder and keep Sydney safe all at the same time. This book is full of all you expect from one of Sleemans books, mystery, drama, suspense, family and of course romance. I was given a copy of this book for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Lisa G. Hudson.
698 reviews61 followers
October 3, 2023
EXCELLENT ROMANTIC SUSPENSE

Best-selling author Susan Sleeman knows how to grab readers' attention with her opening sentences. In Shadow of Night (Shadow Lake Survival Book 2), she opens this book with a pursuit through the woods at night. To make matters worse, Rookie Officer Sydney Tucker took off her duty belt when she stopped to check on the status of her new condo that was being built. She had a bullet graze her head, she knows someone else has been shot, and the killer is relentlessly pursuing her and taunting her by calling out her name! She lives through that scare but that is only the beginning of an action-packed plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat! At least she has Emerson County Sheriff Russ Maddox to help protect her and her sister from the unrelenting threats that persist in their lives. Maddox serves as a man of character, a mentor, but can he be more to Sydney? Dare she even hope? Don't miss this excellent romantic suspense!

931 reviews1 follower
October 6, 2023
Shadow of Night is book 2 in Susan Sleeman’s Shadow Lake Survival series, and it is jam-packed with action, suspense, and intrigue, with a dash of romance and inspiration to top things off. I always enjoy Sleeman’s books, because I get to learn new things about criminal investigations and law enforcement while I read a great story. Officer Sydney Tucker and Emerson County Sheriff Russ Maddox star in this story, with Sydney being tracked by a killer while Russ tries to protect her and solve the murder. It was fun to be back with the Maddox brothers and see what they’ve been up to, although I’m not sure I’d like to hang out with them. They and their friends and family get into entirely too many hazardous situations! I would recommend this book to those who enjoy well-written romantic suspense. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Danielle.
Author 27 books616 followers
October 11, 2023
Shadow of Night by Susan Sleeman is the second book in her Shadow Lake Survival series.

I’ve been looking forward to Russ’s story. Seeing him in the past couple books, I knew he had a history and I’ve been curious to read more about him. And what a tragic history he has! I love that someone can finally break through his walls.

I also love the comradery of Russ and his brothers/team. It’s one of the aspects that I enjoy most about Susan Sleeman’s books. And the way Russ brought in the female main character, cop to cop, was amazing. And her being a female rookie cop added so much to the story.

If you enjoy romantic suspense, give this one a read!

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I received a complimentary copy of this book.
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.
Profile Image for Mary Hake.
Author 4 books414 followers
October 20, 2023
I always look forward to Susan Sleeman’s thrilling suspense novels. Not only are the stories set in my home state, they contain the latest technology and skilled crimefighters in exciting dramas. This latest edition is no exception. Officer Sydney Tucker works to put criminals behind bars, but one now has his sites on her and threatens not only her life but that of her teen sister. The fast-paced mystery will grab your attention and keep you in its death grip throughout until you breathe a sigh of relief at its conclusion. This second book in a new series can stand alone, but it’s fun to see cameos by familiar characters from previous ones. Don’t miss this clean thriller. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Robin.
Author 3 books29 followers
January 26, 2024
Well-Written, Kept Me Reading

I had this book in my ‘to buy later’ list for a while before even looking at book one. I’m glad I started this series. What draws me to a story these days is a strong hero/heroine who have a problem or two to overcome. Add to that they either already have a strong faith in God or they learn to, and that’s a great start to a winner. This book had all that, plus a plot which kept me guessing. The character I was hoping was responsible for the crime wasn’t, but the one who was responsible was also on my suspect list. I love that! So if you’re looking for inspirational suspense romance which might keep you guessing, give this book a try.
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,613 reviews36 followers
March 12, 2024
I have mixed feelings about this book. The suspense and mystery were fantastic, especially the climax. It was INTENSE!!

But I haven’t ever really liked Russ as a character. I mean, I get it, but he’s still too grumpy and prickly for me. Sydney was cool. Her story is sad but what she did with it is impressive.

To be honest, most of the focus was on the case and trying to figure out what was going on. So there wasn’t as much time to dig into the character development. It was an okay trade-off though, since the action was so great and I never saw the reveal coming!
1,145 reviews7 followers
December 2, 2023
I am enjoying this series so far.
Rookie officer Sydney Tucker is being threatened. Why and by who remains to be seen! She can handle it except when they threaten her sister NIkki. Can they figure out what this killer wants? She has nothing he could need and doesn't know what he is looking for. Can Sheriff Russ Maddox keep her and her sister safe? Plus figure out what is going on? Could danger be closer than they think?
Profile Image for Kristen.
1,179 reviews
March 10, 2024
Shadow of Night is a riveting and intense romantic suspense that hooked me from the beginning. With plenty of twists, turns, and intrigue, it kept me glued to my seat. I loved Sydney and Russ - each struggled with demons from the past and both wrestled with trying to keep their relationship professional despite growing feelings between them. The book was captivating, fast-paced, and emotional. I highly recommend it!
44 reviews1 follower
October 5, 2023
Things that go bump in the night.

Susan Sleeman doesn't disappoint with Shadow of Night. Really a good writer and story teller. I Enjoyed the book very much and liked the ending. They were in a bad way, but their faith in GOD and training provided them with the means to excell ..
764 reviews4 followers
October 6, 2023
Russ, Sydney, Nikki, etc etc

What an awesome mystery who done it novel!!!! There is plenty of action, mystery, people I absolutely didn’t like at all. I was taken completely surprised who was the ring leader. Guess I was t paying attention like I should have. Can not wait for the next one. Happy reading!!!!!!!!!
122 reviews7 followers
May 17, 2024
My thoughts: Ms. Sleeman has done it again with a page turning romantic suspense that will keep you guessing until the very end. I am usually really good at knowing who-dun-it but this book kept me guessing. You will fall in love with the main characters. Highly recommended. I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.

Profile Image for Tabitha.
627 reviews7 followers
June 13, 2024
Exciting read. I'd forgotten about this series after reading the first book, but it all came back to me with the thrilling beginning to this one. Alcoholism plays a big part in both Russ and Sydney's pasts and drug use and partying in her present (at least in figuring out a murder and protecting her sister). Clean romance. Murder and violence and even bombs. Definitely an explosive read.
183 reviews2 followers
March 22, 2025
So good

I really enjoyed the fast paced action, intesity, suspense, and mystery in this book. Of course, the romance between Russ and Sydney is pretty sweet, too, even though they attempt to fight their feelings all the way through. The culprit at the end was unexpected. I loved the theme of forgiveness, grace, and love woven throughout the book.
Profile Image for Monica Willyard Moen.
1,381 reviews32 followers
May 25, 2017
My husband and I read this mystery together, fthus the slower pace to finish reading. We both really enjoyed it. The characters were fun to get to know, and the plot was good. I'm looking forward to reading more books in the series.
Profile Image for Judine Brey.
787 reviews2 followers
June 25, 2017
I liked that Russ and Sydney knew each other before the events in the text. Their conflicts were totally believable. What I didn't buy was Sydney's up and down relationship with her sister Nikki - too many changes too fast.
Profile Image for Susan.
2,456 reviews13 followers
November 3, 2023
Excellent!

This book has wonderful characters and a great story full of mystery, suspense, action, and a bit of romance. Human struggles are very well portrayed as are the characters' search for God. It really is a very enjoyable book!
Profile Image for Diane Fazioli.
66 reviews
November 8, 2023
Loved both books

Susan did a marvelous job of keeping the story moving . Adding the Veratas group tries some many stories together. Would recommend it to anyone who wants to read a God inspired story. Truly make think about giving second chances.
1,405 reviews16 followers
December 9, 2023
Sydney is a rookie police officer who is being threatened and receiving threats to her sister , Russ is the sheriff and tries to help her but the bad guy seems to always be a step ahead. is is a well written story very good
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews

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