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Discarded Heroes #1
Nightshade
Soldiers all across the globe are returning home to their families after brutal tours of duty. They are discharged from the service. . .and on their own. Meet Max Jacobs, one of these discarded heroes, as he faces a wall of failure—in his career, his friendships, and his marriage. Failing again—this time to end his life—he is offered a thread of hope. Are covert government operations the answer for him, or will they only bring more danger and dissension upon his broken family?
367 pages, Paperback
First published June 18, 2010
99 people are currently reading
2781 people want to read
About the author
Ronie Kendig
66 books1,245 followersRonie Kendig is a bestselling, award-winning author of over thirty books. She grew up an Army brat, and now she and her Army-veteran husband have returned to their beloved Texas after a nearly ten-year stint in the Northeast. They survive on Sonic runs, barbecue, and peach cobbler that they share--sometimes--with Benning the Stealth Golden and AAndromeda the #mwdwashout. Ronie's degree in psychology has helped her pen novels of intense, raw characters.
Since launching onto the publishing scene, Ronie’s Rapid-Fire Fiction has hit the CBA Bestseller List, won the prestigious Christy Award, Carol Award, the RT Reviewers' Choice Award (twice), the HOLT Medallion, the IRCA, and FamilyFiction’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
Ronie loves people and helping other writers through speaking, workshops, and/or mentoring. Find Ronie at www.roniekendig.com, on Facebook (www.facebook.com/rapidfirefiction) , Twitter (@roniekendig), GoodReads, and Instagram (www.instagram.com/kendigronie ).
Since launching onto the publishing scene, Ronie’s Rapid-Fire Fiction has hit the CBA Bestseller List, won the prestigious Christy Award, Carol Award, the RT Reviewers' Choice Award (twice), the HOLT Medallion, the IRCA, and FamilyFiction’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
Ronie loves people and helping other writers through speaking, workshops, and/or mentoring. Find Ronie at www.roniekendig.com, on Facebook (www.facebook.com/rapidfirefiction) , Twitter (@roniekendig), GoodReads, and Instagram (www.instagram.com/kendigronie ).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
July 11, 2010
A wild ride! Even up to the very last page! I have to admit, I get bored quite easily with so many books I read these days, but that was NOT the case with Ms. Kendig's new release Nightshade! This new author has a definite talent in creating likeable, real characters and then placing them in the most harrowing situations! The hero, Max, is one angry dude, but there's a good reason for his anger. He's also a true hero in every sense of the word. Noble, honorable, protecting, strong, brave. Honestly, we could use more men like him in this day and age. Sydney, the heroine, was also strong, sensitive, hurting, stubborn and a lot more like me than I cared to admit. She and Max belonged together, but they just didn't know it through most of the book! Ms. Kendig makes us truly care for them and want to see them happy, then she thrusts them into every imaginable deathly dangerous situation! A fun, intense rollar coaster ride that I guarantee will leave you breathless!
August 19, 2021
How did I never heard about Ronie Kendig before! This book kept my attention and made me read every available minute I could. Fast paced, full of action, but also an emotional side to it.
This book was busy, loads was happening:
Max and Sydney - My heart ached for them, dealing with their broken marriage, both not willing to let it go but also not let going of their own hurt and pride to meet each other halfway to work on mending the broken walls. Max had so much hurt from being at war and incidents from his past. I went through the emotional ride with them, also wanting to hit them behind the head sometimes. Oh and Bryce, Sydney's meddling brother, didn't like his meddling at all! Also got irritated with Lane and angry with Sydney for not setting him straight from the start.
The action:
Max and the nightshade team - the story was action packed and I felt like I was walking through the jungle with them. Sad for one thing happening, but won't spoil it. The way Ronie introduced the members of Nightshade in book one has me interested one their past and hurts and looking forward to the rest of the series.
Sydney - she is investigating a story which might cost her life. It was interesting how she followed the facts and some stuff which happened felt a bit surreal, but she is dealing with black ops which no one is suppose to know about, so I guess the extremes can be real in that CIA mission type of way.
Jon and Kimber - missionaries in the Philippines who has to deal with radicals. The events they discuss here of what the radicals does is harsh (and reality), so if you are a sensitive reader, skim over that parts (no details but they are talking about rape etc).
Looking forward to all of Ronie's other books and recommended for anyone who loves suspense.
This book was busy, loads was happening:
Max and Sydney - My heart ached for them, dealing with their broken marriage, both not willing to let it go but also not let going of their own hurt and pride to meet each other halfway to work on mending the broken walls. Max had so much hurt from being at war and incidents from his past. I went through the emotional ride with them, also wanting to hit them behind the head sometimes. Oh and Bryce, Sydney's meddling brother, didn't like his meddling at all! Also got irritated with Lane and angry with Sydney for not setting him straight from the start.
The action:
Max and the nightshade team - the story was action packed and I felt like I was walking through the jungle with them. Sad for one thing happening, but won't spoil it. The way Ronie introduced the members of Nightshade in book one has me interested one their past and hurts and looking forward to the rest of the series.
Sydney - she is investigating a story which might cost her life. It was interesting how she followed the facts and some stuff which happened felt a bit surreal, but she is dealing with black ops which no one is suppose to know about, so I guess the extremes can be real in that CIA mission type of way.
Jon and Kimber - missionaries in the Philippines who has to deal with radicals. The events they discuss here of what the radicals does is harsh (and reality), so if you are a sensitive reader, skim over that parts (no details but they are talking about rape etc).
Looking forward to all of Ronie's other books and recommended for anyone who loves suspense.
April 11, 2023
“Fight for something that’s worth fighting for, Max.”
Wow, what a fantastic start to the Discarded Heroes series. Granted, I started this series in search of Canyon Metcalfe after reading the newer Book of The Wars and Metcalfes series but fell in love with Max and his wounded, broken, heroic soul from the first page. I’m hoping to see more of him as I work through the author’s backlist of books. This is Ronie Kendig at her best - action, adrenaline, soul-stirring pain and regret paired with overwhelming grace, mercy, forgiveness, and redemption.
Max and Sydney’s love, even in the midst of difficulties and unresolved issues, is undeniable. Max’s PTSD from battle was heart-wrenching to see but this difficult topic was addressed with sensitivity and care. I loved Jon and Kimber Harris; they were minor characters in the plot but their relationship with God and with each other made me ponder about God’s calling and our part in His plan.
There is a bit of a mystery and cliffhanger regarding who is funding, controlling, and possibly even targeting this elite group of soldiers but I’m thinking the next book will delve into it more. I’m loving this series so far!
Wow, what a fantastic start to the Discarded Heroes series. Granted, I started this series in search of Canyon Metcalfe after reading the newer Book of The Wars and Metcalfes series but fell in love with Max and his wounded, broken, heroic soul from the first page. I’m hoping to see more of him as I work through the author’s backlist of books. This is Ronie Kendig at her best - action, adrenaline, soul-stirring pain and regret paired with overwhelming grace, mercy, forgiveness, and redemption.
Max and Sydney’s love, even in the midst of difficulties and unresolved issues, is undeniable. Max’s PTSD from battle was heart-wrenching to see but this difficult topic was addressed with sensitivity and care. I loved Jon and Kimber Harris; they were minor characters in the plot but their relationship with God and with each other made me ponder about God’s calling and our part in His plan.
There is a bit of a mystery and cliffhanger regarding who is funding, controlling, and possibly even targeting this elite group of soldiers but I’m thinking the next book will delve into it more. I’m loving this series so far!
October 16, 2017
How have I not read this series before??? When the series originally came out, I had not read this author's work yet. Since then, I have read everything I can get my hands on! Now, with the new rewrites and updates to the series, I decided it was a perfect time to catch up!
I'm so glad I did! I could hardly set this book down because I was so invested with these two characters. Nightshade was action packed and did a great job of introducing the characters that I know will be part of the series.
And I really liked both Max and Sydney, even though I felt that each of them made some decisions that would hurt the other at times. But, it all worked so well together to blend into the perfect situations that were filled with tension. I loved it!
I'm so glad I did! I could hardly set this book down because I was so invested with these two characters. Nightshade was action packed and did a great job of introducing the characters that I know will be part of the series.
And I really liked both Max and Sydney, even though I felt that each of them made some decisions that would hurt the other at times. But, it all worked so well together to blend into the perfect situations that were filled with tension. I loved it!
April 20, 2019
4.5 stars
I have not yet been disappointed by Ms. Kendig’s writing. Rounded, interesting characters who develop through the story, well-thought-out plots, and exciting action. The Christian faith of certain characters is believable and softly woven through the story, not slapped on like a badge. Life is hard sometimes, especially for those who have seen and done unimaginable things in their call to duty. And, if those horrors continue to fester in the mind, they can lead to mistakes, wrong actions, and regret.
Former Navy SEAL Max Jacobs experiences all three. The terror of nightmares that leave him shaken, a lashing out in physical response, and regret at the loss of his marriage to Sydney.
Sydney’s job as a reporter leads her to a human-interest story which blows up into a major story that has her traveling around the world to track down a covert group of heroes. As the action increases and her life is on the line, she gains insight into Max’s world of military action and why Max has changed.
The only reason I have given this 4.5 stars rather than 5 is because there were quite a few typos and technical issues. But if you like military action stories with a human interest bent, you can’t go wrong reading Ronie Kendig.
I have not yet been disappointed by Ms. Kendig’s writing. Rounded, interesting characters who develop through the story, well-thought-out plots, and exciting action. The Christian faith of certain characters is believable and softly woven through the story, not slapped on like a badge. Life is hard sometimes, especially for those who have seen and done unimaginable things in their call to duty. And, if those horrors continue to fester in the mind, they can lead to mistakes, wrong actions, and regret.
Former Navy SEAL Max Jacobs experiences all three. The terror of nightmares that leave him shaken, a lashing out in physical response, and regret at the loss of his marriage to Sydney.
Sydney’s job as a reporter leads her to a human-interest story which blows up into a major story that has her traveling around the world to track down a covert group of heroes. As the action increases and her life is on the line, she gains insight into Max’s world of military action and why Max has changed.
The only reason I have given this 4.5 stars rather than 5 is because there were quite a few typos and technical issues. But if you like military action stories with a human interest bent, you can’t go wrong reading Ronie Kendig.
June 25, 2010
Make room Dee Henderson, tip your hat Chuck Holton, Ronie Kendig has well and truly arrived and stamped her authority in the suspense genre! There are writers who excell at characterisation, others pace their stories to perfection while some can write a love story that touches the soul yet rarely have I seen those talents combined...until now! Just like the Hayabusa motorbike Max Jacobs rides, Nightshade is a powerful and electrifying read, accelerating through danger at breakneck speed and stirring deep emotion as Max and Sydney watch their marriage disintegrate and danger come to their door. Ronie's ability to capture the male perspective is mind blowing as Max struggles to assimilate after his tours of duty in Afghanistan, finding safety and acceptance only in returning to high risk black ops missions. Men and women alike will find themselves captivated by Ronie's exceptional talent and I can confidently say Nightshade is a book you will be unable to put down. The sequel, Digitalis, simply can't come soon enough for me!
April 29, 2017
**just found out that this book is getting a new cover and redone and then released May 2017, yes!**
Oh my goodness, what a ride!! Max Jacobs is the elite when it comes to his job, but he believes himself to be a failure in his personal life and he doesn’t want help from anyone. “I’m good,” is what he tells everyone until he figures out his next step. He’s impulsive, full throttle, determined, loyal, and loves to ride his motorcycle. He doesn’t do things halfway and even though he once believed in God, he now thinks that God gave up on him and with good reason. Max is the kind of character you gotta love, he’s a fierce soldier with great instincts. As the story begins, we discover that his wife has filed for separation which then leads to divorce. Max is devastated and enraged, has lost his purpose, and he has no idea what to do next. Then he gets an opportunity to join a Special Ops team dubbed Nightshade, will this new venture lead to disaster or victory?
Sydney is still inlove with Max, but can no longer abide his temper and brokenness. He refuses to get help and then accidentally hits Sydney in the face. Her older brother advises on filing separation for Sydney’s safety and she follows along not knowing what else to do. Then Sydney gets a surprise and a chance to cover a real story at work, The Virginia Independent, little does she know that this research connects with Max. The closer she gets to answers, the more she endangers herself and those around her. Will finding out the truth be worth the consequences she endures?
When I first started blogging I heard about Nightshade and knew I had to get a copy. I’m the kind of reader that doesn’t like to start a book without having the entire series already on my bookshelves. It took about a year and a half to get this series, but it was absolutely worth the wait! I considered Max to be a brilliant and confident soldier, a definite hero with heart who constantly makes sacrifices for his team and Sydney, but he was an idiot and nonsensical when it came to his wife. With the help of his team and the missionaries he ends up rescuing, he finally gains the clarity and perspective he missed throughout the story.
I absolutely loved the scenes with Nightshade!! They work hard, but they also play hard together. These are six men of different backgrounds and skills who have been recruited by General Lambert. They become brothers and depend on one another both on missions and in their personal lives. Max is the hothead of the group and he ends up in a fight or two with them, but they’re still getting to know one another as the story progresses. Max is also amazed by their loyalty and in disbelief at one point in how they back him up so the job can be done properly. I have much more respect and admiration for the military after reading this story, but I was also able to identify specific needs of why soldiers need prayer. It’s not just for their safety while on active duty, it’s also for their personal lives for those who come home and need help adjusting to civilian life. The creed stated at the beginning of the book is referred to throughout the story, these men hold this creed very seriously and draw strength as well as motivation from it when times are tough. The Bible is also mentioned in the story and Max is introduced to it.
There is NO profanity in Nightshade (another reason to love it), but there is plenty of violence. There’s only one graphic scene in the story, which is briefly described in a nightmare Max has from the trauma he has experienced. Otherwise, I didn’t think anything horrific occurs. The violence is tastefully depicted and realistic to the story, but it is INTENSE at some parts of the book. I laughed at certain parts, I cried tremendously at others. The suspense of the story really grabs at the reader and I almost felt like reading with one eye instead of two because of what would happen next, but I HAD TO KNOW. More than once I felt like yelling, “Run!!” or “Get out of there!!” The deaths of characters in the story are tangible, the danger and unknown elements keep you turning pages as fast as possible, the faith in the story is amazing, and the writing is so utterly captivating that you feel like you’re there with Nightshade! I didn’t really notice much romance in the book, although the missionary couple is obviously inlove and depend on one another for survival. Max and Sydney aren’t together for much of the story so the main romance for me was how Max does everything in his strength to keep Sydney safe. Nightshade also jumps in to rescue her or help Max protect her, I thought that was awesome.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves adventure, action, suspense, a mission gone terribly wrong and the military heroes it comes with. I consider this book a must have for any booklover, but this story is not for the faint of heart. It can be read as a standalone, but I suggest reading the entire series because more questions need to be answered and you get to love these characters. I’m truly looking forward to Digitalis next!
Oh my goodness, what a ride!! Max Jacobs is the elite when it comes to his job, but he believes himself to be a failure in his personal life and he doesn’t want help from anyone. “I’m good,” is what he tells everyone until he figures out his next step. He’s impulsive, full throttle, determined, loyal, and loves to ride his motorcycle. He doesn’t do things halfway and even though he once believed in God, he now thinks that God gave up on him and with good reason. Max is the kind of character you gotta love, he’s a fierce soldier with great instincts. As the story begins, we discover that his wife has filed for separation which then leads to divorce. Max is devastated and enraged, has lost his purpose, and he has no idea what to do next. Then he gets an opportunity to join a Special Ops team dubbed Nightshade, will this new venture lead to disaster or victory?
Sydney is still inlove with Max, but can no longer abide his temper and brokenness. He refuses to get help and then accidentally hits Sydney in the face. Her older brother advises on filing separation for Sydney’s safety and she follows along not knowing what else to do. Then Sydney gets a surprise and a chance to cover a real story at work, The Virginia Independent, little does she know that this research connects with Max. The closer she gets to answers, the more she endangers herself and those around her. Will finding out the truth be worth the consequences she endures?
When I first started blogging I heard about Nightshade and knew I had to get a copy. I’m the kind of reader that doesn’t like to start a book without having the entire series already on my bookshelves. It took about a year and a half to get this series, but it was absolutely worth the wait! I considered Max to be a brilliant and confident soldier, a definite hero with heart who constantly makes sacrifices for his team and Sydney, but he was an idiot and nonsensical when it came to his wife. With the help of his team and the missionaries he ends up rescuing, he finally gains the clarity and perspective he missed throughout the story.
I absolutely loved the scenes with Nightshade!! They work hard, but they also play hard together. These are six men of different backgrounds and skills who have been recruited by General Lambert. They become brothers and depend on one another both on missions and in their personal lives. Max is the hothead of the group and he ends up in a fight or two with them, but they’re still getting to know one another as the story progresses. Max is also amazed by their loyalty and in disbelief at one point in how they back him up so the job can be done properly. I have much more respect and admiration for the military after reading this story, but I was also able to identify specific needs of why soldiers need prayer. It’s not just for their safety while on active duty, it’s also for their personal lives for those who come home and need help adjusting to civilian life. The creed stated at the beginning of the book is referred to throughout the story, these men hold this creed very seriously and draw strength as well as motivation from it when times are tough. The Bible is also mentioned in the story and Max is introduced to it.
There is NO profanity in Nightshade (another reason to love it), but there is plenty of violence. There’s only one graphic scene in the story, which is briefly described in a nightmare Max has from the trauma he has experienced. Otherwise, I didn’t think anything horrific occurs. The violence is tastefully depicted and realistic to the story, but it is INTENSE at some parts of the book. I laughed at certain parts, I cried tremendously at others. The suspense of the story really grabs at the reader and I almost felt like reading with one eye instead of two because of what would happen next, but I HAD TO KNOW. More than once I felt like yelling, “Run!!” or “Get out of there!!” The deaths of characters in the story are tangible, the danger and unknown elements keep you turning pages as fast as possible, the faith in the story is amazing, and the writing is so utterly captivating that you feel like you’re there with Nightshade! I didn’t really notice much romance in the book, although the missionary couple is obviously inlove and depend on one another for survival. Max and Sydney aren’t together for much of the story so the main romance for me was how Max does everything in his strength to keep Sydney safe. Nightshade also jumps in to rescue her or help Max protect her, I thought that was awesome.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves adventure, action, suspense, a mission gone terribly wrong and the military heroes it comes with. I consider this book a must have for any booklover, but this story is not for the faint of heart. It can be read as a standalone, but I suggest reading the entire series because more questions need to be answered and you get to love these characters. I’m truly looking forward to Digitalis next!
July 6, 2010
As my friends Renee and Rel both said, Digitalis, the next book in the Discarded Heroes series cannot come soon enough and I fully and whole heartedly agree. Nightshade is intense and real. Mixing up a team of veteran special ops from various divisions with a endangered marriage, a PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) SEAL in denial and anger, a wife reporter bent on discovering the black ops team with a group of missionaries in danger of Muslim terrorists and my goodness do not expect any sleep while reading this book. The pages have to go fast and as a reader you'll negotiate that it is worth a few less hours of sleep to find out what happens next.
There were so many different elements to this book that make it enjoyable that I do not even know how to begin to touch on them. Ronie Kendig is an awesome new author and I hope and pray that there will be much more to come from her in the days to come. Nightshade is entertaining and suspenseful. The romance is realistic and heart changing. This is a great book for someone from any spectrum. There is entertainment for all here. Highly recommended! More please. *wink*
There were so many different elements to this book that make it enjoyable that I do not even know how to begin to touch on them. Ronie Kendig is an awesome new author and I hope and pray that there will be much more to come from her in the days to come. Nightshade is entertaining and suspenseful. The romance is realistic and heart changing. This is a great book for someone from any spectrum. There is entertainment for all here. Highly recommended! More please. *wink*
July 1, 2010
Attention readers of romance, suspense and military fiction, you will LOVE this book! Not only is it a love story but it's full of intrigue and heroism that will stop your heart! I was riveted to the pages of this book and finished it in a matter of hours. It's not a lovey dovey, goo goo eyes romance but the story of two hurting people in a marriage that is falling apart. Sydney Jacobs doesn't know how to deal with a husband who she still loves but suffers with PTSD. Max Jacobs doesn't want to risk hurting the one he loves the most.
From the very first chapter you want to know what happens next. Not only are Max and Sydney wonderful characters but the team members of the black ops group, Nightshade are awesome! Fearless, handsome and yet troubled I'm sure they will all have some interesting stories and I can't wait to read how everything plays out for them, especially Colton "Cowboy" Neeley (hubba hubba). :-P The secondary story of the Harris family, missionaries in the Philippines, is extremely heartrending as well and if their story doesn't put a tear in your eye nothing will.
This book has earned a spot on my keeper shelf and Ronie Kendig is now a "must-read" author. Digitalis, Wolfsbane, and Firethorn can't come out fast enough!
*I received my review copy from the publisher as an influencer for the author.*
From the very first chapter you want to know what happens next. Not only are Max and Sydney wonderful characters but the team members of the black ops group, Nightshade are awesome! Fearless, handsome and yet troubled I'm sure they will all have some interesting stories and I can't wait to read how everything plays out for them, especially Colton "Cowboy" Neeley (hubba hubba). :-P The secondary story of the Harris family, missionaries in the Philippines, is extremely heartrending as well and if their story doesn't put a tear in your eye nothing will.
This book has earned a spot on my keeper shelf and Ronie Kendig is now a "must-read" author. Digitalis, Wolfsbane, and Firethorn can't come out fast enough!
*I received my review copy from the publisher as an influencer for the author.*
December 26, 2015
I've definitely discovered another good author to follow. The Christian message in this book is deep and real and given a very practical application. The writing is excellent also. I'm definitely going to be reading the rest of this series!
I loved that the main characters wanted to save their marriage and became willing to meet each other halfway. It's a delight when books take you beyond the initial euphoria of newlyweds and show that life isn't all fun and roses beyond, and it's great to see these two learning to deal with the issues of life as adults.
I loved that the main characters wanted to save their marriage and became willing to meet each other halfway. It's a delight when books take you beyond the initial euphoria of newlyweds and show that life isn't all fun and roses beyond, and it's great to see these two learning to deal with the issues of life as adults.
April 27, 2013
A Quickie Review
Both a piece of military fiction and a tale of a marriage gone south, Nightshade dishes up plenty of drama, action, and intensity. I did find it to be a bit harder-edged than Christian fiction usually is; some of the violence bordered on extreme, and the usage of the term "bull" in a profane way was slightly bothersome. Still, those who are looking for great Christian military fiction will find it here.
Score: 4/5
Both a piece of military fiction and a tale of a marriage gone south, Nightshade dishes up plenty of drama, action, and intensity. I did find it to be a bit harder-edged than Christian fiction usually is; some of the violence bordered on extreme, and the usage of the term "bull" in a profane way was slightly bothersome. Still, those who are looking for great Christian military fiction will find it here.
Score: 4/5
September 22, 2020
Ok, I can't believe it's taken me this long to read a Ronie Kendig book... but at least now I can binge my way through this series! It was an intense ride following this band of discarded heroes but so great! I'm thankful for the way in which she portrayed Max. I have a friend who is a retired Marine with PTSD and so I always appreciate an author who excels at depicting this in stories. Those who enjoy romantic suspense will want to scoop this one up!
April 1, 2023
Straight to the 2023-faves shelf, this author clearly needs more love!
Nightshade wasn't heavy on romance however, the angst is real you will love it. I enjoyed every chapter I read and I have to say this was a pretty dark read for Christian fiction, the author gave a realistic detail for the reader to feel really involved in the suspense.
Not only the romance and action part but I was also inspired by the faith contained in this book, truly a hidden gem!
Nightshade wasn't heavy on romance however, the angst is real you will love it. I enjoyed every chapter I read and I have to say this was a pretty dark read for Christian fiction, the author gave a realistic detail for the reader to feel really involved in the suspense.
Not only the romance and action part but I was also inspired by the faith contained in this book, truly a hidden gem!
June 6, 2020
I had a hard time getting into it but once I did it was a good story!
February 3, 2012
"Nightshade" brings us the story of a former Navy SEAL, his estranged wife, and a missionary couple who are in danger. Max Jacobs suffers from anger issues stemming from PTSD and it has driven his journalist wife, Sydney, to file a restraining order against him. Just when he's ready to give up on life, Max is approached by a secret organization who is putting together an elite force of retired military heroes for special surgical ops. Max signs on with Nightshade and begins to find purpose again.
Devastated that her marriage has fallen apart, Sydney begins pushing hard on her journalistic pursuits. When she comes across the story of a secret military operation who are saving lives and quietly quelling rebel uprisings all over the globe, she sets out to find these men to give them the recognition that they deserve for their bravery.
Jon Harris and his wife Kimber have served as missionaries on an island in the Philippines for several years when they are advised by the U.S. Embassy to head home as soon as possible. They are in the process of leaving when it becomes clear the warning has come too late and they begin to flee through the jungle trying to save their lives and reach an extraction point before being captured.
There are two separate timelines throughout the story, as the one focusing on Max and Sydney takes place over several months, while the missionaries' story is only a few weeks. This is clearly noted in the book and never hard to follow.
This was quite an action tale. There's a reason I don't read a lot of those, and that is simply that they aren't quite my style. This author hit upon several of my pet peeves as well, such as referring to a 15-month-old child as an 'infant' and having her behave as though she were actually 5 months old, or making seemingly every man Sydney met fall in love with her, or insulting the intelligence of the reading audience by calling a conversative news network CougarNews. The writing style in general seemed more technical than flowing. These are things that stood out to me personally and took away from the actual storylines. I wouldn't discourage someone from reading this for any of those reasons, I'd just note that's why I didn't give it a completely positive review.
Will Max and Sydney find a way to each other again before one or both of them loses their lives to the dangers they face? Will Jon and Kimber manage to be rescued and be able to continue serving God? Find out in this first book the Discarded Heroes series.
This review originally appeared at http://www.reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
Devastated that her marriage has fallen apart, Sydney begins pushing hard on her journalistic pursuits. When she comes across the story of a secret military operation who are saving lives and quietly quelling rebel uprisings all over the globe, she sets out to find these men to give them the recognition that they deserve for their bravery.
Jon Harris and his wife Kimber have served as missionaries on an island in the Philippines for several years when they are advised by the U.S. Embassy to head home as soon as possible. They are in the process of leaving when it becomes clear the warning has come too late and they begin to flee through the jungle trying to save their lives and reach an extraction point before being captured.
There are two separate timelines throughout the story, as the one focusing on Max and Sydney takes place over several months, while the missionaries' story is only a few weeks. This is clearly noted in the book and never hard to follow.
This was quite an action tale. There's a reason I don't read a lot of those, and that is simply that they aren't quite my style. This author hit upon several of my pet peeves as well, such as referring to a 15-month-old child as an 'infant' and having her behave as though she were actually 5 months old, or making seemingly every man Sydney met fall in love with her, or insulting the intelligence of the reading audience by calling a conversative news network CougarNews. The writing style in general seemed more technical than flowing. These are things that stood out to me personally and took away from the actual storylines. I wouldn't discourage someone from reading this for any of those reasons, I'd just note that's why I didn't give it a completely positive review.
Will Max and Sydney find a way to each other again before one or both of them loses their lives to the dangers they face? Will Jon and Kimber manage to be rescued and be able to continue serving God? Find out in this first book the Discarded Heroes series.
This review originally appeared at http://www.reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
November 7, 2017
Max Jacobs is one of the most intense characters I have ever encountered. Raw, broken, and angry. So angry. When I first picked up Nightshade about three years ago, I didn’t know what had hit me. I had never read such powerful, hit-you-in-the-face (sometimes literally!) characterization. I had never encountered so much testosterone—and still haven’t! And I’d never read another story that so totally captivated every sense and emotion the way this story did, or had me so close to the edge of my seat. Above all, I couldn’t believe it was written by a woman! (Don’t throw rotten tomatoes at me for that comment! I now know better! But seriously, this gal gets the psyche and camaraderie of elite male warriors like no other writer I have read!)
But, wait for it...Now there’s an improved version. Say what now?! How is that even possible?
Well, the story is the same in essentials, but the writing is tighter, more polished. And in any form, this is a book you don’t want to miss. It’s intense, it’s riveting, it’s gritty; it will hold your heart in a stranglehold until the last page and beyond, and it’s so REAL you’ll forget you’re not right there with the characters. It’s such a powerful story—not just because of Max and Sydney’s journey, but also because of the story of missionaries Jon and Kimber Harris, whom the Nightshade team are sent to extract after they are captured by Higanti warriors.
This book speaks volumes to the physical and emotional sacrifices made by the men and women—and their families—who give their lives to protect the innocent from atrocities many of us in the Western world cannot truly fathom. As secondary character Holden Crane observes, seeing these things reported on the news is one thing, but “it’s another thing to live and breathe the dust after a car bomb explodes and kills fifteen men you just had chow with.” And while Max may be the one resisting help, Sydney also realizes she has never truly understood the enormity of the kind of life and death decisions her husband has been forced to make in his career. At least, not until she begins to witness it for herself.
I can’t even begin to express how much love I have for this book—for this whole series. I know I just tried for three whole paragraphs, but really, it’s not even close. Just buy the book. It contains the only words that will do it justice.
But, wait for it...Now there’s an improved version. Say what now?! How is that even possible?
Well, the story is the same in essentials, but the writing is tighter, more polished. And in any form, this is a book you don’t want to miss. It’s intense, it’s riveting, it’s gritty; it will hold your heart in a stranglehold until the last page and beyond, and it’s so REAL you’ll forget you’re not right there with the characters. It’s such a powerful story—not just because of Max and Sydney’s journey, but also because of the story of missionaries Jon and Kimber Harris, whom the Nightshade team are sent to extract after they are captured by Higanti warriors.
This book speaks volumes to the physical and emotional sacrifices made by the men and women—and their families—who give their lives to protect the innocent from atrocities many of us in the Western world cannot truly fathom. As secondary character Holden Crane observes, seeing these things reported on the news is one thing, but “it’s another thing to live and breathe the dust after a car bomb explodes and kills fifteen men you just had chow with.” And while Max may be the one resisting help, Sydney also realizes she has never truly understood the enormity of the kind of life and death decisions her husband has been forced to make in his career. At least, not until she begins to witness it for herself.
I can’t even begin to express how much love I have for this book—for this whole series. I know I just tried for three whole paragraphs, but really, it’s not even close. Just buy the book. It contains the only words that will do it justice.
June 22, 2017
Sydney and Max Jacobs have been married for several years and live in a suburb of Washington, DC. Sydney works as a journalist for a newspaper and Max has recently retired from the Navy where he was a SEAL. Their marriage is on the rocks because Max, like many soldiers who have been in combat situations, has issues that makes it hard to adjust back to a normal life. Max has an anger issue and Syd is afraid of him when he is angry like when he was so angry at an associate of hers from the paper, Lane, who he sensed has his sights set on Syd. In his anger at him, he accidentally hit Syd trying to hit Lane. Her brother, Bryce, has convinced Syd to leave Max. They have a year of separation before their divorce is final. Both of the two still love each other but it seems that neither really knows what needs to be done to make it work.
Max is confronted by a stranger and asked to meet with other soldiers who have recently gotten out of the military to hear about a job offer involving their military skills. From the meeting a secret team is formed to rescue people in other countries in situations where they are being dominated by radicals, terrorists or dictators. They fly under the radar and not affiliated with the US government. They are basically unknown but rumors start to rise about this team of heroes that save those in grave situations. Syd starts working on a story for the newspaper to investigate this team that the government denies exists not knowing that she is investigating Max' team and that she could be endangering the team. Events happen to let her know that she needs to stop the investigation or else. One tragedy happens when their is blown up. At this point, Max finds out what she is up to but can't say anything about his involvement. To complicate matters, she finds out she is pregnant and she doesn't tell Max. The book involves Syd trying to follow every lead that she can to uncover the story along with her friend from the paper, Lane. This leads to some scary encounters. This is an action packed, edge of the seat novel. i couldn't put it down. Oh my goodness, Ronie Kendig is a wonderful author that God has blessed with an amazing gift. I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to read the other books in the series of Discarded Heroes.
Max is confronted by a stranger and asked to meet with other soldiers who have recently gotten out of the military to hear about a job offer involving their military skills. From the meeting a secret team is formed to rescue people in other countries in situations where they are being dominated by radicals, terrorists or dictators. They fly under the radar and not affiliated with the US government. They are basically unknown but rumors start to rise about this team of heroes that save those in grave situations. Syd starts working on a story for the newspaper to investigate this team that the government denies exists not knowing that she is investigating Max' team and that she could be endangering the team. Events happen to let her know that she needs to stop the investigation or else. One tragedy happens when their is blown up. At this point, Max finds out what she is up to but can't say anything about his involvement. To complicate matters, she finds out she is pregnant and she doesn't tell Max. The book involves Syd trying to follow every lead that she can to uncover the story along with her friend from the paper, Lane. This leads to some scary encounters. This is an action packed, edge of the seat novel. i couldn't put it down. Oh my goodness, Ronie Kendig is a wonderful author that God has blessed with an amazing gift. I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to read the other books in the series of Discarded Heroes.
October 14, 2011
A touching tale of redemption just about sums this story up. We have Max, the ex Navy SEAL who has returned from duty scarred. Trying to be a "real man" he hides his hurts from his wife, Sydney, and they continue to eat him up inside until one night he snaps. It tears their marriage apart, and even though they love each other deeply, it seems that they will never be able to find their way back to each other.
Max was just the right mix of macho tough guy and a scarred and injured warrior. I enjoyed his character from the get go and his fragile relationship with Sydney was portrayed in a way that I could see the thin threads that just barely held them to each other. Both strong people, fighting for what they think is best.
Max's special ops team is full of personality. It was a wonderful group of characters that allowed the author to pull things into the story in ways that just seemed natural. Each and every person introduced plays a very special and important role in Max and Sydney's journey. It is a dark and very dangerous one, but one they must face if they ever hope to save their marriage.
The rating on this book could be split into two sections for me. The story of Max and Sydney gets 4-5 stars all the way. However, there is a parallel story line of Jon and Kimber that we follow as well (don't want to say too much more and give anything away). I found their story to be a bit over done and syrupy, predictable and a little preachy, and would only give it 1 or 2 stars. While their role was very important in the overall plot, I just didn't enjoy them much at all.
Overall a good book, one that doesn't show military as all glamorous, but how it can leave the mind as well as the body scarred, making it difficult to return to a "normal" life.
Max was just the right mix of macho tough guy and a scarred and injured warrior. I enjoyed his character from the get go and his fragile relationship with Sydney was portrayed in a way that I could see the thin threads that just barely held them to each other. Both strong people, fighting for what they think is best.
Max's special ops team is full of personality. It was a wonderful group of characters that allowed the author to pull things into the story in ways that just seemed natural. Each and every person introduced plays a very special and important role in Max and Sydney's journey. It is a dark and very dangerous one, but one they must face if they ever hope to save their marriage.
The rating on this book could be split into two sections for me. The story of Max and Sydney gets 4-5 stars all the way. However, there is a parallel story line of Jon and Kimber that we follow as well (don't want to say too much more and give anything away). I found their story to be a bit over done and syrupy, predictable and a little preachy, and would only give it 1 or 2 stars. While their role was very important in the overall plot, I just didn't enjoy them much at all.
Overall a good book, one that doesn't show military as all glamorous, but how it can leave the mind as well as the body scarred, making it difficult to return to a "normal" life.
August 15, 2011
Former Navy Seal, Max Jacobs is angry and bitter. His life is falling a part. His wife is filing for divorce and to make matters even worse, she's also filed a protective order against him which means that he can't get any closer to her than 30 feet.
Then Griffin happens and Max is requested to join an elite team of discarded heroes called Nightshade.
This group is secret with only one man knowing of their existence and identities. Missions? To go into countries and rescue people where the US Government cannot go.
They have a problem though. Someone is hunting for this team. They are threatened to be exposed and the man hiding their team will go to any lengths to keep it silenced.
Sydney Jacobs loves her soon-to-be ex-husband, but he's not the man that she married so long ago. He's grown distant and cold, locking her out of his heart and memories. She doesn't understand the trauma and terrible experiences he's been through. If only he would tell her. But he doesn't.
She finally lands her dream job of news reporter. Chasing a story around the world lands her very life in danger.
Will someone come to her rescue before all is lost? Who is hunting her and why? She must find out at all costs.
My rating: 5 stars
This book grabbed me from the very first sentence and didn't let up until the last. With past-paced action and enough sweet romance to capture my heart, Nightshade is a novel I won't soon forget.
Then Griffin happens and Max is requested to join an elite team of discarded heroes called Nightshade.
This group is secret with only one man knowing of their existence and identities. Missions? To go into countries and rescue people where the US Government cannot go.
They have a problem though. Someone is hunting for this team. They are threatened to be exposed and the man hiding their team will go to any lengths to keep it silenced.
Sydney Jacobs loves her soon-to-be ex-husband, but he's not the man that she married so long ago. He's grown distant and cold, locking her out of his heart and memories. She doesn't understand the trauma and terrible experiences he's been through. If only he would tell her. But he doesn't.
She finally lands her dream job of news reporter. Chasing a story around the world lands her very life in danger.
Will someone come to her rescue before all is lost? Who is hunting her and why? She must find out at all costs.
My rating: 5 stars
This book grabbed me from the very first sentence and didn't let up until the last. With past-paced action and enough sweet romance to capture my heart, Nightshade is a novel I won't soon forget.
January 15, 2012
Several friends had recommended this series to me, and book one did not disappoint. Max Jacobs is a retired Seal who can't seem to find an outlet for his anger. When his wife files for divorce, Max is devastated and accepts a position on Nightshade, a black ops team. When Sydney, a reporter and also Max's soon-to-be ex-wife, starts reporting on this mysterious group rescuing people around the world, will Max be able to save his wife from those threatening her and his marriage?
Most action/suspense books focus more on the adventure and less on character development, but this book has both, making a great novel. The action is from page one to the last page. But what was even more intriguing was the character development of Max, and the delicate storyline of soldiers suffering from PTSD. The author switches point of view several times, rotating between Max, Sydney, and Jon, the missionary Max and his team has to rescue. Having the third point of view, Jon, adds another layer to this intricately woven book.
Fans of Christian suspense will love this book!
Most action/suspense books focus more on the adventure and less on character development, but this book has both, making a great novel. The action is from page one to the last page. But what was even more intriguing was the character development of Max, and the delicate storyline of soldiers suffering from PTSD. The author switches point of view several times, rotating between Max, Sydney, and Jon, the missionary Max and his team has to rescue. Having the third point of view, Jon, adds another layer to this intricately woven book.
Fans of Christian suspense will love this book!
August 12, 2015
First book I've read by Ronie Kendig and it was great! I'll be looking into reading some more by Kendig.
May 7, 2025
This was a really intriguing blend of genres with its mix of military related action storyline, a heart filled marriage drama, and Christian fiction elements of faith and redemption. It is the start of a series and was a great way to kick things off. I love the brotherhood that we get to see among the men and I am definitely intrigued to keep discovering their backstories and what the future holds for all of them.
One of the things I appreciate about Ronie’s books is that she isn’t afraid to dwell in the mess. She lets her characters be imperfect and make mistakes and their journeys can be messy but the journey is satisfying to watch.
This is a great time to pick up the series because the author will be releasing a second generation series next year that follows the children of main characters from this series!
Trigger/content notes: PTSD and related anger issues is a prominent theme. Grief, combat related violence, references to rape occurring but nothing on page. Spice level is closed door.
One of the things I appreciate about Ronie’s books is that she isn’t afraid to dwell in the mess. She lets her characters be imperfect and make mistakes and their journeys can be messy but the journey is satisfying to watch.
This is a great time to pick up the series because the author will be releasing a second generation series next year that follows the children of main characters from this series!
Trigger/content notes: PTSD and related anger issues is a prominent theme. Grief, combat related violence, references to rape occurring but nothing on page. Spice level is closed door.
June 4, 2020
My wife dearly loves these action thrillers with Christian overtones...Ronnie Kendig’s Nightshade is very much like Suzanne Brockmann’s “Troubleshooter” series, but without the sex...Nightshade is a rub rosa, private Spec Ops group that saves America missionaries and correspondents from rebel Islamic terrorists in the Philippines...Meh
May 2, 2025
I finally read this series-starter! It was an action packed special-ops adventure but still managed deeper themes of forgiveness, restoration, the importance of brotherhood, and commitment to a spouse. I can't wait to read book 2 and find out Cowboy's story.
March 9, 2011
Nightshade by Ronie Kendig surprised me. I am not usually a mystery or suspense person, but something pulled at me, told me to read it and I could not be more glad that I did. It was an enjoyable,emotional read from start to finish.Ms.Kendig drew characters I could relate to, people I wanted to get to know better. I cried several times, identified with their emotions throughout and did not want to stop reading. I was hard pressed to stop for anything, even when my eyes got so tired that the words blurred on the screen.
Max truly thought he was a discarded hero. Though not seriously trying to kill himself, he wasn't avoiding it, either. So when he is recruited by the "Old Man" to head up a secret group that will go out and change people's lives in secret, he decides to go do it. After all, Sydney is gone and as far as he knows--not coming back.
Sydney loves Max and has always loved Max. But she can't live with him any longer. His refusal to see that he needs help is killing their marriage. She's afraid, not that he will hurt her, but more of what he's doing to himself. So, she runs. She doesn't know what else to do. And her family, particularly her brother Bryce isn't helping. (Personally,I thought that Bryce had too much influence on Sydney's decisions.)
Ms. Kendig has given us a book full of love, pain and lessons learned. At the center of it all is the lesson that God is always reaching out to us. It was an exceptional read, with characters and situations so well-drawn that I could feel the heat of the jungle, fever, the wonder of a first flutter and cried my own tears of pain and sorrow over the losses. But I also felt hope, the love between two people and the ties that bind us all.
PTSD is a real condition,I know firsthand. I have an uncle who I can remember both before he went to war (Vietnam) and after he came back. If he'd had someone to try and help him,as Cowboy does for Max, maybe he would have been able to deal with it better. The author handles it well and shows how this condition can affect all the people touched by it, not just the Vet. Nightshade
Max truly thought he was a discarded hero. Though not seriously trying to kill himself, he wasn't avoiding it, either. So when he is recruited by the "Old Man" to head up a secret group that will go out and change people's lives in secret, he decides to go do it. After all, Sydney is gone and as far as he knows--not coming back.
Sydney loves Max and has always loved Max. But she can't live with him any longer. His refusal to see that he needs help is killing their marriage. She's afraid, not that he will hurt her, but more of what he's doing to himself. So, she runs. She doesn't know what else to do. And her family, particularly her brother Bryce isn't helping. (Personally,I thought that Bryce had too much influence on Sydney's decisions.)
Ms. Kendig has given us a book full of love, pain and lessons learned. At the center of it all is the lesson that God is always reaching out to us. It was an exceptional read, with characters and situations so well-drawn that I could feel the heat of the jungle, fever, the wonder of a first flutter and cried my own tears of pain and sorrow over the losses. But I also felt hope, the love between two people and the ties that bind us all.
PTSD is a real condition,I know firsthand. I have an uncle who I can remember both before he went to war (Vietnam) and after he came back. If he'd had someone to try and help him,as Cowboy does for Max, maybe he would have been able to deal with it better. The author handles it well and shows how this condition can affect all the people touched by it, not just the Vet. Nightshade
August 5, 2010
Title: NIGHTSHADE
Author: Ronie Kendig
Publisher: Barbour Books
July 2010
ISBN: 978-1-60260-777-4
Genre: Inspirational/contemporary
Former Navy SEAL Max Jacobs is suffering from PTSD. His rage is uncontrollable, and he believes all is just as it ever was, except for the horrible nightmares. But trying to get situated into real life is trying after seeing the horribleness of war, and now Max’s wife, Sydney has filed for legal separation, with divorce pending.
Sydney still loves Max, but when he refuses to get help for his anger issues, she doesn’t know what else to do. Her brother insists that she place a restraining order against Max, not allowing him within fifty feet of her. Sydney gives in, but she continues to break the restraining order herself to talk to Max.
When Max tries to kill himself, the man who’d been following him for days is first on the scene and takes him to a warehouse. There Max in introduced to a bunch of “discarded heroes” like himself that are needed for a black-ops. Max is unable to resist the call of duty and signs on.
The group handles everything with precision and lethal skill—until they are clled to rescue a missionary family from the revel-infested jungles and must not only avoid an enemy, but also a reporter hunting their identities.
NIGHTSHADE is book one in Ms. Kendig’s Discarded Heroes series. The book started a bit slow for me, but once the pace picked up I was unable to put the book down and had to keep reading to find out what happened next. Ms. Kendig is definitely a writer to watch.
Sydney and Max are both realistic characters, as well as some of the other characters that Max works with—and Sydney as well. I enjoyed getting to know this cast and am looking forward to reading the other books in this series. $12.99. 367 pages.
Author: Ronie Kendig
Publisher: Barbour Books
July 2010
ISBN: 978-1-60260-777-4
Genre: Inspirational/contemporary
Former Navy SEAL Max Jacobs is suffering from PTSD. His rage is uncontrollable, and he believes all is just as it ever was, except for the horrible nightmares. But trying to get situated into real life is trying after seeing the horribleness of war, and now Max’s wife, Sydney has filed for legal separation, with divorce pending.
Sydney still loves Max, but when he refuses to get help for his anger issues, she doesn’t know what else to do. Her brother insists that she place a restraining order against Max, not allowing him within fifty feet of her. Sydney gives in, but she continues to break the restraining order herself to talk to Max.
When Max tries to kill himself, the man who’d been following him for days is first on the scene and takes him to a warehouse. There Max in introduced to a bunch of “discarded heroes” like himself that are needed for a black-ops. Max is unable to resist the call of duty and signs on.
The group handles everything with precision and lethal skill—until they are clled to rescue a missionary family from the revel-infested jungles and must not only avoid an enemy, but also a reporter hunting their identities.
NIGHTSHADE is book one in Ms. Kendig’s Discarded Heroes series. The book started a bit slow for me, but once the pace picked up I was unable to put the book down and had to keep reading to find out what happened next. Ms. Kendig is definitely a writer to watch.
Sydney and Max are both realistic characters, as well as some of the other characters that Max works with—and Sydney as well. I enjoyed getting to know this cast and am looking forward to reading the other books in this series. $12.99. 367 pages.
January 23, 2016
NIGHTSHADE by Ronie Kendig reminds me a lot of the NCIS series from Mel Odom with just a little more emotional kick for the female reader.
Former Navy SEAL, Max Jacobs, suffers with PTSD after his tour of duty. Having a hard time assimilating back to civilian life, he allows his untreated emotional battle scars to upend his marriage. He loves his wife without question, but ignoring the issues of his emotional state forces her to file a restraining and seek divorce.
Sydney Jacobs loves Max but can no longer ignore his violent outbursts. With pressure from her over-protective brother, she files for a restraining order hoping Max will see that he needs help. When he refuses, she feels she has no alternative than to file for divorce. Throwing herself into her journalism career, she follows the lead on a story the government doesn’t want her to pursue. It seems an elite team of operatives is taking it upon themselves to go into politically torn countries and extricate people caught in their uprisings. Sydney soon finds herself in the middle of one such skirmish and begins to understand the demons Max has been struggling with. But, has she found out too late?
NIGHTSHADE definitely kept my interest. Kendig, injects just enough romance to satisfy the female reader, while the action is sure to keep the interest of the male reader. Though you really have to stretch your imagination for the plot to seem feasible, I didn’t mind. After all, isn’t that what fiction is all about? I’m looking forward to Digitalis, the second installment of The Discarded Heroes Series.
Book provided for review purposes.
Former Navy SEAL, Max Jacobs, suffers with PTSD after his tour of duty. Having a hard time assimilating back to civilian life, he allows his untreated emotional battle scars to upend his marriage. He loves his wife without question, but ignoring the issues of his emotional state forces her to file a restraining and seek divorce.
Sydney Jacobs loves Max but can no longer ignore his violent outbursts. With pressure from her over-protective brother, she files for a restraining order hoping Max will see that he needs help. When he refuses, she feels she has no alternative than to file for divorce. Throwing herself into her journalism career, she follows the lead on a story the government doesn’t want her to pursue. It seems an elite team of operatives is taking it upon themselves to go into politically torn countries and extricate people caught in their uprisings. Sydney soon finds herself in the middle of one such skirmish and begins to understand the demons Max has been struggling with. But, has she found out too late?
NIGHTSHADE definitely kept my interest. Kendig, injects just enough romance to satisfy the female reader, while the action is sure to keep the interest of the male reader. Though you really have to stretch your imagination for the plot to seem feasible, I didn’t mind. After all, isn’t that what fiction is all about? I’m looking forward to Digitalis, the second installment of The Discarded Heroes Series.
Book provided for review purposes.
May 29, 2012
I read this book when it just released in 2010, but I recently reread it and I probably enjoyed it even more!
Having read all the books in the Discarded Heroes Series, I started to love all the guys. Max is one of my favorites, but all guys are easy to love and it was great to read each of their stories.
Max is a former Navy SEAL and has seen too many awful things in combat. Those things are haunting him and unleashes his anger. Now his wife Sydney is afraid of him and files a restriction order and divorce, because Max doesn't want to deal with his problems.
Max thinks he has nothing valuable to live for anymore, but then an old general is recruiting a black ops team and Max is asked to become the leader.
Nightshade is born--a group elite soldiers. Officially they don't exist and their work is top secret. But Sydney hears a rumour about a group of 6 American soldiers that destroyed a whole hostile village. As a reporter she wants to know who this group is. She starts asking questions and soon someone is trying to silence her.
Nightshade's next mission is in the Philippines. Max leads his team through the dangers of the jungle and threats of the hostile Higanti. Their mission is to free hostages.
Sydney continues her search for the secret elite soldiers. Will she find them? And is there a chance to restore her marriage with Max?
This book is full excitement and adventure. When I read it the first time I devoured the book in one day. This second time around I took it slow and I savored every detail.
This series is a keeper and I hope to reread it again and again. It's FABULOUS!
Having read all the books in the Discarded Heroes Series, I started to love all the guys. Max is one of my favorites, but all guys are easy to love and it was great to read each of their stories.
Max is a former Navy SEAL and has seen too many awful things in combat. Those things are haunting him and unleashes his anger. Now his wife Sydney is afraid of him and files a restriction order and divorce, because Max doesn't want to deal with his problems.
Max thinks he has nothing valuable to live for anymore, but then an old general is recruiting a black ops team and Max is asked to become the leader.
Nightshade is born--a group elite soldiers. Officially they don't exist and their work is top secret. But Sydney hears a rumour about a group of 6 American soldiers that destroyed a whole hostile village. As a reporter she wants to know who this group is. She starts asking questions and soon someone is trying to silence her.
Nightshade's next mission is in the Philippines. Max leads his team through the dangers of the jungle and threats of the hostile Higanti. Their mission is to free hostages.
Sydney continues her search for the secret elite soldiers. Will she find them? And is there a chance to restore her marriage with Max?
This book is full excitement and adventure. When I read it the first time I devoured the book in one day. This second time around I took it slow and I savored every detail.
This series is a keeper and I hope to reread it again and again. It's FABULOUS!
March 19, 2011
Nightshade combines the story of David and the A Team. The Bible doesn’t talk about the scars killing in war put on David’s soul and the A Team made it look fun. Although I hate the violence that permeates too many TV shows and movies, Max’s pain drew me in. The killing he did left him a shattered man. Did David live with guilt?
Nightshade tells several stories: Max, his wife and a missionary couple. Max, a “discarded hero,” and former soldier, presumably discharged, but a member of Nightshade, goes to dangerous locales and does what the military can’t do for political reasons. Sydney, his wife, loves him, but she fears how far his anger will propel him. So, for her safety, she gets a restraining order and a separation agreement. But her love won’t leave her, particularly when she discovers herself pregnant. Then when Jon and Kimber find themselves in the clutches of terrorists after told to leave their missionary assignment, Nightshade gets the assignment to go in and rescue them—and Sydney gets an assignment to do a story on Nightshade, unaware that Max leads it.
Each chapter switches to a different story in a different place. I found the changes a little distracting, sometimes had to take a second to see which story the chapter told.
This story is exciting, with constant adventure. The characters are realistic and sympathetic. Romance lovers will enjoy it. It also describes constant violence. If it were a movie, it would have a “watch at your own risk” label.
Nightshade tells several stories: Max, his wife and a missionary couple. Max, a “discarded hero,” and former soldier, presumably discharged, but a member of Nightshade, goes to dangerous locales and does what the military can’t do for political reasons. Sydney, his wife, loves him, but she fears how far his anger will propel him. So, for her safety, she gets a restraining order and a separation agreement. But her love won’t leave her, particularly when she discovers herself pregnant. Then when Jon and Kimber find themselves in the clutches of terrorists after told to leave their missionary assignment, Nightshade gets the assignment to go in and rescue them—and Sydney gets an assignment to do a story on Nightshade, unaware that Max leads it.
Each chapter switches to a different story in a different place. I found the changes a little distracting, sometimes had to take a second to see which story the chapter told.
This story is exciting, with constant adventure. The characters are realistic and sympathetic. Romance lovers will enjoy it. It also describes constant violence. If it were a movie, it would have a “watch at your own risk” label.
June 20, 2014
4 1/2 Stars
Danger, torn relationships, secrets, murder, hostages... this book has enough stuff to keep you glued to your seat & the pages rapidly turning! I wasn't sure if this novel would be up my alley, but from the beginning Kendig grabbed me & held me captive through a wild and fast paced read. It was awesome! In fact, it was so good I had to stay up late to finish it! The suspense, interesting plot & characters all made for a great read. A nice touch of mystery at the end leads you to know there is danger ahead for this team in future books.
The one thing that I think readers may take issue with is how from time to time parts of the story are paced in the future & other parts the past... Then there is the present goings on. It wasn't clearly labeled as such but you figure it out as you read it. As people are discussed being saved that are at other parts of the novel still in captivity. Things at the end did wrap up a little too quickly for me but then again I wasn't ready for the story to be over.
Kendig was insightful & heartfelt as she wrote about PTSD & how what the soldiers go through & what they see affects them & their families. The elements of faith & struggle seemed both real & not pushy. This was a great faith based suspense/action novel with a touch of romance added in. All around a good read.
Danger, torn relationships, secrets, murder, hostages... this book has enough stuff to keep you glued to your seat & the pages rapidly turning! I wasn't sure if this novel would be up my alley, but from the beginning Kendig grabbed me & held me captive through a wild and fast paced read. It was awesome! In fact, it was so good I had to stay up late to finish it! The suspense, interesting plot & characters all made for a great read. A nice touch of mystery at the end leads you to know there is danger ahead for this team in future books.
The one thing that I think readers may take issue with is how from time to time parts of the story are paced in the future & other parts the past... Then there is the present goings on. It wasn't clearly labeled as such but you figure it out as you read it. As people are discussed being saved that are at other parts of the novel still in captivity. Things at the end did wrap up a little too quickly for me but then again I wasn't ready for the story to be over.
Kendig was insightful & heartfelt as she wrote about PTSD & how what the soldiers go through & what they see affects them & their families. The elements of faith & struggle seemed both real & not pushy. This was a great faith based suspense/action novel with a touch of romance added in. All around a good read.
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