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First Responders #3
Falls Like Lightning
A New Nonstop Action Thriller from Shawn Grady
When hotshot smoke jumper Silas Kent gets his own fire crew, he thinks he's achieved what he's always wanted. But a lightning-sparked fire in the Desolation Wilderness of the Sierra Nevadas has his team in a plane before they can even train together.
Pilot Elle Westmore has been called up to drop the crew into the heart of the forest infernos. A single mother of a mysteriously ill six-year-old, she can't imagine her life getting any more complicated.
It doesn't take long for things to go very wrong, very quickly. A suspicious engine explosion forces Elle to make an emergency landing. Silas is able to parachute to safety but soon discovers his crew can't be trusted. They're hiding something, and now Silas is on a race to save himself and Elle from the flames--and from a more dangerous threat: his own team.
When hotshot smoke jumper Silas Kent gets his own fire crew, he thinks he's achieved what he's always wanted. But a lightning-sparked fire in the Desolation Wilderness of the Sierra Nevadas has his team in a plane before they can even train together.
Pilot Elle Westmore has been called up to drop the crew into the heart of the forest infernos. A single mother of a mysteriously ill six-year-old, she can't imagine her life getting any more complicated.
It doesn't take long for things to go very wrong, very quickly. A suspicious engine explosion forces Elle to make an emergency landing. Silas is able to parachute to safety but soon discovers his crew can't be trusted. They're hiding something, and now Silas is on a race to save himself and Elle from the flames--and from a more dangerous threat: his own team.
304 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2011
8 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
About the author
Shawn Grady
4 books78 followersA novelist who has served as a firefighter and paramedic for over fifteen years in Reno-Tahoe where he lives with his wife and three children.
Books:
Through the Fire
Tomorrow We Die
Falls Like Lightning
More info can be found at shawngradybooks.com.
Books:
Through the Fire
Tomorrow We Die
Falls Like Lightning
More info can be found at shawngradybooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 22, 2018
Ahh, reading this reminded me once again why Grady is one of my favorite authors. Combine a beautiful writing style, steller characters, and edge-of-your-seat stories, and you've got the First Responders series. Highly recommended!
June 24, 2011
Normally I only ready historical romance, but when I saw this book in the Bethany House catalog, a little voice told me to give it a try. Boy, I'm I glad I listened. It read like an action movie. Shawn Grady writes suspense/action scenes so well, my adrenaline was pumping right along with the characters. He even works in some great romance, which makes my feminine heart pitter patter. Loved it! The flashback sections that he incorporated for a change of pace and character development were well-written also, but I couldn't help wanting to skim those to get back to the action, for that is where he truly excels.
If you want an exciting read with a manly, smoke-jumping, firefighter hero and a heroine with gumption who can fly a plane better than her male counterparts, this is the book for you. Dasterly villains, a great supporting cast, and scenary in the Sierra Nevadas all add to the thrill.
If you want an exciting read with a manly, smoke-jumping, firefighter hero and a heroine with gumption who can fly a plane better than her male counterparts, this is the book for you. Dasterly villains, a great supporting cast, and scenary in the Sierra Nevadas all add to the thrill.
October 24, 2016
I had trouble getting into this one.
April 16, 2025
"Falls Like Lightning" was my first book by Shawn Grady and I enjoyed it. It was published in 2011, so a little older of a book than I usually read, but it still feels contemporary. I was intrigued to read about smoke jumpers, people who fight raging wildfires. I've never heard of the term "smoke jumper," so it immediately intrigued me.
For me, I had a little trouble getting through the first three or four chapters because it started with an action scene, which for many readers may be a draw, but for me it was hard to engage with the story/characters in such a high-stakes beginning. I guess I prefer to work up to the action rather than jumping into it from page one. Once we got past that and learned who the main players were, the story drew me in and kept me until the end.
The book was full of action and adventure, I got to learn a little about smoke jumpers and what they do, and there was just a little romance (but not enough to turn away those who don't like romance.)
It was well written with excellent prose, and the author has a way of mixing explosive adventure in with the tender moments, and the Christian faith elements were woven into the story in a pleasing way.
Highly recommended! I plan to read more of the author's work.
For me, I had a little trouble getting through the first three or four chapters because it started with an action scene, which for many readers may be a draw, but for me it was hard to engage with the story/characters in such a high-stakes beginning. I guess I prefer to work up to the action rather than jumping into it from page one. Once we got past that and learned who the main players were, the story drew me in and kept me until the end.
The book was full of action and adventure, I got to learn a little about smoke jumpers and what they do, and there was just a little romance (but not enough to turn away those who don't like romance.)
It was well written with excellent prose, and the author has a way of mixing explosive adventure in with the tender moments, and the Christian faith elements were woven into the story in a pleasing way.
Highly recommended! I plan to read more of the author's work.
February 6, 2021
It's not clear from reading the description was that Silas and Elle had been in a relationship years before, so I wasn't anticipating the second-chance angle of the romance. That's not really a drawback, though, because all the shared history made things not move as incredibly fast as they would have otherwise.
I really liked Silas's quick thinking and ability to take charge of a situation, along with the fact that he was able to tone down his cocky attitude when it mattered. I enjoyed watching Elle with Maddie and seeing how hard she was working to balance her job, her home life, and her lingering grief over the loss of her dad. And Bo--that guy captured my heart from the very beginning...
The only thing that really threw me was that after the set of crises that got everyone into place, the major fire that was burning out of control and had made them push through a number of less-than-optimal conditions to get into place to fight it kind of seemed to disappear from the scene. I get it--there were more immediate life and death matters to attend to, but it just seemed odd that a thing like that would fall so completely off everyone's radar, even if there was nothing they could do about it. The other stuff going on (the reason the crew can't be trusted) also got a little more grim than I usually like, but it was handled pretty well, which I appreciated.
3.5 stars
Content--violence, including gunplay; deaths, including murders; mentions of dead bodies and remains (not graphic); mentions of a man being a polygamist (not condoned); mentions of kissing and touching (not descriptive); mentions of blood, wounds, and seizures (not graphic); a man is teased about being Muslim (he isn't), including a reference to "seventy virgins"
I really liked Silas's quick thinking and ability to take charge of a situation, along with the fact that he was able to tone down his cocky attitude when it mattered. I enjoyed watching Elle with Maddie and seeing how hard she was working to balance her job, her home life, and her lingering grief over the loss of her dad. And Bo--that guy captured my heart from the very beginning...
The only thing that really threw me was that after the set of crises that got everyone into place, the major fire that was burning out of control and had made them push through a number of less-than-optimal conditions to get into place to fight it kind of seemed to disappear from the scene. I get it--there were more immediate life and death matters to attend to, but it just seemed odd that a thing like that would fall so completely off everyone's radar, even if there was nothing they could do about it. The other stuff going on (the reason the crew can't be trusted) also got a little more grim than I usually like, but it was handled pretty well, which I appreciated.
3.5 stars
Content--violence, including gunplay; deaths, including murders; mentions of dead bodies and remains (not graphic); mentions of a man being a polygamist (not condoned); mentions of kissing and touching (not descriptive); mentions of blood, wounds, and seizures (not graphic); a man is teased about being Muslim (he isn't), including a reference to "seventy virgins"
October 29, 2019
That...was a wild ride. XD
September 12, 2011
This was a different sort of read for me. I don't ever remember reading a story about smoke jumpers, and actually I am not sure I knew what a smoke jumper was before reading this story. I knew there were firefighters who go in and fight the major forest fires, but I honestly didn't realize there were men who are dropped in to fight the fires by cutting down trees etc. So not only did I get an action packed story but I also learned something new which is always a bonus.
The main characters in this one are Silas Kent a smoke jumper and Elle Westmore a pilot who drops smoke jumpers into the heart of a fire. Silas and Elle have a history together, but parted ways. Their paths cross again when when she takes an assignment to fly a smoke jumping crew out of Redding, CA to the Desolation Complex in the Sierra Nevada's to battle a raging fire. Soon though they realize there is more going on in those mountains than just the fires, there is cache of gold and some of the men on the smoke jumping crew is on a mission to recover it!
What a fast paced read. Elle was someone who had alot on her plate. She has the responsibility of taking care of her five year old daughter Maddie, while doing a very demanding job. I thought the little twist about her short marriage to Maddie's father was quite interesting. Silas seemed to have grown quite a bit from being someone who ran from a serious relationship to wanting to take care of Elle.I really got hooked on the characters from the beginning pages and became anxious to see how things would work out.
There is plenty of page turning action, with romance, suspense mystery and drama woven together with a christian message woven in to keep you reading until the final page.
While this is the first time I have ever read anything by Shawn Grady, it certainly wont be my last. I really enjoyed his writing style, his vivid descriptions and suspense filled story makes this book a real winner!
The main characters in this one are Silas Kent a smoke jumper and Elle Westmore a pilot who drops smoke jumpers into the heart of a fire. Silas and Elle have a history together, but parted ways. Their paths cross again when when she takes an assignment to fly a smoke jumping crew out of Redding, CA to the Desolation Complex in the Sierra Nevada's to battle a raging fire. Soon though they realize there is more going on in those mountains than just the fires, there is cache of gold and some of the men on the smoke jumping crew is on a mission to recover it!
What a fast paced read. Elle was someone who had alot on her plate. She has the responsibility of taking care of her five year old daughter Maddie, while doing a very demanding job. I thought the little twist about her short marriage to Maddie's father was quite interesting. Silas seemed to have grown quite a bit from being someone who ran from a serious relationship to wanting to take care of Elle.I really got hooked on the characters from the beginning pages and became anxious to see how things would work out.
There is plenty of page turning action, with romance, suspense mystery and drama woven together with a christian message woven in to keep you reading until the final page.
While this is the first time I have ever read anything by Shawn Grady, it certainly wont be my last. I really enjoyed his writing style, his vivid descriptions and suspense filled story makes this book a real winner!
October 4, 2025
It took awhile to connect with the story at all because the first third was badly disjointed and much of the action was just action beats without description, so it was hard to keep straight who and where and what, etc. However, that did even out after a bit, and the storytelling improved as the action got closer; though scene changes remained abrupt and hard to follow.
I enjoyed the ending and would be willing to try another book by this author.
I enjoyed the ending and would be willing to try another book by this author.
September 16, 2019
Good pace. Good story.
I expected a "firefighter" story, but instead got an even more gripping story about fire jumpers, which I learned are 2 separate occupations.
I didn't realize this was the 3rd installment of this series, but I'm happy that I was able to read it and comprehend everything without having read the others.
I expected a "firefighter" story, but instead got an even more gripping story about fire jumpers, which I learned are 2 separate occupations.
I didn't realize this was the 3rd installment of this series, but I'm happy that I was able to read it and comprehend everything without having read the others.
July 22, 2021
Suspenseful story with a hint of romance. Elle is a pilot. Silas is a smoke jumper who walked away from her a few years ago petrified of commitment. No sex. No profanity. A few bible verses but not overwhelming. I enjoyed it.
February 24, 2020
Great book
The book did not turn out the way I thought it would. It was so much more, the excitement and suspense was terrific.
The book did not turn out the way I thought it would. It was so much more, the excitement and suspense was terrific.
March 1, 2018
Although the third in the series, I thought this was the best of the three. Writing was so much better than the first two.
August 30, 2011
Smokejumpers are people who jump out of airplanes into dangerous wildfires without regard to their own safety. This reckless regard for their own safety makes them a breed not unlike what I imagine early cowboys to have been like – difficult to pin down, thirsty for the next adrenaline rush, and ready to face whatever comes next. Silas, the main male character, definitely fits that description. He takes risks to do his job, and while that may seem somewhat necessary anyway, there are always those who feel the rules were made to be broken by them, and Silas is one of those who takes those risks and dodges the consequences on a regular basis.
Perhaps this wild streak is what makes this book so interesting to me! I’ve never read a book about this occupation before, so some of the first part of the book was a little daunting, what with terms like “top-roping” and “line-of-sight radio communication,” but the author did a good job of explaining the technical terms without being condescending or making the reader feel like they should have read a manual first. I enjoyed reading about them, and I felt like I learned a little bit about what they do. Living in the Midwest, I don’t generally hear much about wildfires unless they are out of control, so it was definitely a new perspective to hear of the crews that battle many of the smaller ones, and come together to fight the big ones as part of the Forest Service.
Aside from the smokejumpers, the story of a woman pilot in the story intrigued me. Single parenting comes with a very distinctive set of challenges, and I’m pretty sure that trying to meet those challenges and fly a plane into dangerous wildfires makes that role more than a little insane. Elle, the main woman character, demonstrates how tricky that balance can be, and how much having a child can change your perspective on life in general. There is no surprise that both Elle and Silas are Christians, and while that is apparent, the book is not an evangelistic one by any stretch. Many of the characters refer to their faith, but overt witnessing is not evident – by no means a criticism, just a summary of the ‘Christian’ aspect of a fiction work.
Overall the story of Silas and Elle is a good one, with some interesting curves thrown in. I was a little disappointed in some of the final aspects of the story that felt contrived, but it was definitely a pretty good read overall, and I enjoyed it. This is a good book to read by the fireplace in the winter, when you can watch the flames jump from log to log, and imagine being in the middle of that blaze, uncertain of how you will extinguish it or get home.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Perhaps this wild streak is what makes this book so interesting to me! I’ve never read a book about this occupation before, so some of the first part of the book was a little daunting, what with terms like “top-roping” and “line-of-sight radio communication,” but the author did a good job of explaining the technical terms without being condescending or making the reader feel like they should have read a manual first. I enjoyed reading about them, and I felt like I learned a little bit about what they do. Living in the Midwest, I don’t generally hear much about wildfires unless they are out of control, so it was definitely a new perspective to hear of the crews that battle many of the smaller ones, and come together to fight the big ones as part of the Forest Service.
Aside from the smokejumpers, the story of a woman pilot in the story intrigued me. Single parenting comes with a very distinctive set of challenges, and I’m pretty sure that trying to meet those challenges and fly a plane into dangerous wildfires makes that role more than a little insane. Elle, the main woman character, demonstrates how tricky that balance can be, and how much having a child can change your perspective on life in general. There is no surprise that both Elle and Silas are Christians, and while that is apparent, the book is not an evangelistic one by any stretch. Many of the characters refer to their faith, but overt witnessing is not evident – by no means a criticism, just a summary of the ‘Christian’ aspect of a fiction work.
Overall the story of Silas and Elle is a good one, with some interesting curves thrown in. I was a little disappointed in some of the final aspects of the story that felt contrived, but it was definitely a pretty good read overall, and I enjoyed it. This is a good book to read by the fireplace in the winter, when you can watch the flames jump from log to log, and imagine being in the middle of that blaze, uncertain of how you will extinguish it or get home.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
December 30, 2011
Shawn Grady in his new book, “Falls Like Lightning” published by Bethany House once again takes us into the world of firefighting.
From the back cover: Smokejumper Silas Kent never expected to see pilot Elle Westmore again. In fact, reuniting makes him realize what a mistake he made all those years ago. But before he has a chance to try to make amends, he’s called to lead a new crew into battle against a massive fire in the Sierra Nevadas.
And then things go very wrong, very quickly.
A suspicious engine explosion forces the crew to parachute early while Elle barely survives a crash landing. Silas reaches the ground safely, but in beginning a desperate race to reach the downed plane, he soon realizes he has more to fear than just a raging forest fire.
For a story to be a thriller it has to have the hero in danger from the beginning and Shawn Grady made sure of that. How do you describe paranoia? From now on I will just say to people, “read ”Falls Like Lightning”. Silas Kent has his hands full; a raging forest fire, an untried team whose members, all or some, are trying to kill him. The woman he loves needs to be rescued and he is all by himself.
“Falls Like Lightning” is more than a thriller it is a story of dealing with the past. If the past is unresolved then the future is uncertain for there is nothing to build upon. Silas has a broken past with Elle that needs to be worked out. Elle has a broken past with the loss of her father and how he died. Mr. Grady has a unique ability to make all his characters come to life and we fall in love with them and get emotionally involved with their relationships but also with their peril. The last 100 pages are the most exciting that you will ever want to race through as they run to protect their lives and expose the bad guy. I was very pleased with Mr. Grady’s first two books but this one is even better. I look forward to the next book with enthusiasm. I recommend it highly.
If you missed the interview for “Tomorrow We Die”, a previous book from Shawn Grady, and would like to listen to it and/or interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Smokejumper Silas Kent never expected to see pilot Elle Westmore again. In fact, reuniting makes him realize what a mistake he made all those years ago. But before he has a chance to try to make amends, he’s called to lead a new crew into battle against a massive fire in the Sierra Nevadas.
And then things go very wrong, very quickly.
A suspicious engine explosion forces the crew to parachute early while Elle barely survives a crash landing. Silas reaches the ground safely, but in beginning a desperate race to reach the downed plane, he soon realizes he has more to fear than just a raging forest fire.
For a story to be a thriller it has to have the hero in danger from the beginning and Shawn Grady made sure of that. How do you describe paranoia? From now on I will just say to people, “read ”Falls Like Lightning”. Silas Kent has his hands full; a raging forest fire, an untried team whose members, all or some, are trying to kill him. The woman he loves needs to be rescued and he is all by himself.
“Falls Like Lightning” is more than a thriller it is a story of dealing with the past. If the past is unresolved then the future is uncertain for there is nothing to build upon. Silas has a broken past with Elle that needs to be worked out. Elle has a broken past with the loss of her father and how he died. Mr. Grady has a unique ability to make all his characters come to life and we fall in love with them and get emotionally involved with their relationships but also with their peril. The last 100 pages are the most exciting that you will ever want to race through as they run to protect their lives and expose the bad guy. I was very pleased with Mr. Grady’s first two books but this one is even better. I look forward to the next book with enthusiasm. I recommend it highly.
If you missed the interview for “Tomorrow We Die”, a previous book from Shawn Grady, and would like to listen to it and/or interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 29, 2011
Get ready for another gripping adventure with Shawn Grady’s newest release, Falls Like Lightning! The story centers around smokejumper Silas Kent and pilot Elle Westmore who, after a mysterious crash landing, must fight for their lives…not only from a raging forest fire, but Silas’ new jumping crew. This talented author is sure to delight his fans while gaining new ones.
Both Silas and Elle were very easy to like. Their history, and how/why they broke up, was really neat to discover through the course of the novel. I think all those trips down memory lane really made the character’s come alive. Other characters, like Bo and Caleb, were written really well and realistically. Shawn takes you deep into the character’s thoughts and motives without letting up on the adventure and suspense. A great mix!
Before picking up Falls Like Lightning, I never really knew smokejumpers existed. Not only does this book give the reader a grand adventure, but it’s an eye-opener as well. Smokejumpers go through a lot to fight wild fires and keep people safe.
Shawn’s writing style is sharp and vivid, instantly pulling me into the plot. The opening scene with Silas trying to rescue someone before the fire reached them was an awesome way to start this amazing book. I could almost feel the heat of the fire as it raged around Silas. Each and every scene moved the book along, never slowing or losing my interest, until the heart pounding climax.
If you haven’t heart of Shawn Grady’s books before, you are really missing out! I highly recommend Falls Like Lightning for any reader, teens and adults, who enjoy a gripping adventure. I can’t wait to see what else Shawn brings to the Christian suspense genre in the future. Whatever it is, I know it’ll be good!
Both Silas and Elle were very easy to like. Their history, and how/why they broke up, was really neat to discover through the course of the novel. I think all those trips down memory lane really made the character’s come alive. Other characters, like Bo and Caleb, were written really well and realistically. Shawn takes you deep into the character’s thoughts and motives without letting up on the adventure and suspense. A great mix!
Before picking up Falls Like Lightning, I never really knew smokejumpers existed. Not only does this book give the reader a grand adventure, but it’s an eye-opener as well. Smokejumpers go through a lot to fight wild fires and keep people safe.
Shawn’s writing style is sharp and vivid, instantly pulling me into the plot. The opening scene with Silas trying to rescue someone before the fire reached them was an awesome way to start this amazing book. I could almost feel the heat of the fire as it raged around Silas. Each and every scene moved the book along, never slowing or losing my interest, until the heart pounding climax.
If you haven’t heart of Shawn Grady’s books before, you are really missing out! I highly recommend Falls Like Lightning for any reader, teens and adults, who enjoy a gripping adventure. I can’t wait to see what else Shawn brings to the Christian suspense genre in the future. Whatever it is, I know it’ll be good!
July 20, 2011
If you're a fan of fire-fighters, smoke jumpers or pilots who run the risk of helping either fight fires in the forests, then Falls Like Lightning is for you. Two separate stories collide as Elle fights her demons from the past when she is called to be a pilot for the latest fires in Lake Tahoe. More experienced than anyone else over the terrain, she accepts the job. Little does she know it will involve flying over the same area where her father's plane crashed and was never found.
Silas Kent doesn't realize that Elle is about to become his pilot for the latest fire-fighting he's been called up to deal with. Dealing with a past relationship that didn't end well for her, he feels pulled in making amends with her why he left so many years ago. What he doesn't plan on is that she has a daughter who is very ill and seeking a diagnosis to help determine the cause for her seizures.
In the midst of these fires, a band of fire-fighters has come across the Independence Gold, that will make all of them rich beyond their wildest dreams and they have been called into the area where the mine is located to fight the fire. Only the two people on board they weren't counting on were Elle and Silas.
I received this book compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and LOVED it. I could actually feel the heat from the fires surrounding them and the raging smoke filling the air. I felt the author has such an eye for details that make this story every bit as believable as if you were watching the latest on the news instead of reading a great fictional story. This one rates a scorching 5 out of 5 stars. This is my second book by Shawn Grady and loved this one as much as the first.
Silas Kent doesn't realize that Elle is about to become his pilot for the latest fire-fighting he's been called up to deal with. Dealing with a past relationship that didn't end well for her, he feels pulled in making amends with her why he left so many years ago. What he doesn't plan on is that she has a daughter who is very ill and seeking a diagnosis to help determine the cause for her seizures.
In the midst of these fires, a band of fire-fighters has come across the Independence Gold, that will make all of them rich beyond their wildest dreams and they have been called into the area where the mine is located to fight the fire. Only the two people on board they weren't counting on were Elle and Silas.
I received this book compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and LOVED it. I could actually feel the heat from the fires surrounding them and the raging smoke filling the air. I felt the author has such an eye for details that make this story every bit as believable as if you were watching the latest on the news instead of reading a great fictional story. This one rates a scorching 5 out of 5 stars. This is my second book by Shawn Grady and loved this one as much as the first.
October 1, 2011
Silas Kent is a smokejumper. Elle Westmore is a pilot who is the best in the business. Silas dated Elle for one summer then he called it off. Elle has since married and gotten divorced. She also has a daughter named Maddie now. Kent still has buried feelings for her. An enormous fire has broken out burning the forest rapidly. This fire has led them back to each other again. Broken hearts are having one more chance to mend. They will have to face the past where they can overcome the future. Silas and Elle fall into major trouble during the flight to put out the dangerous fires. They discover they are in for a rough ride. The smokejumper crew members are not at all what they seem. They are hunting for gold and they will kill in order to keep it for themselves. Will Kent and Westmore make it out alive and fall back in love? Can they stop the bad crew members in time or will the fire get them first?
I would recommend this novel to any teenager or adult who is looking for a thrilling and suspense filled novel. It will keep you reading along until you find out what has happened. This novel is filled with action and romance. Men and women will both enjoy this wonderful novel. I enjoyed reading about the smokejumpers. I never even imagined how hard of work they have to do to contain the fires. I appreciate how tough they are to keep us safe. They truly are brave! Shawn Grady does a great job at describing the scenes that I felt I was there along side with them. This was my first novel I read of Grady’s and it was worth it! If you want a great mystery novel then you should check out this one!
“I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House Publishers book review bloggers program.”
I would recommend this novel to any teenager or adult who is looking for a thrilling and suspense filled novel. It will keep you reading along until you find out what has happened. This novel is filled with action and romance. Men and women will both enjoy this wonderful novel. I enjoyed reading about the smokejumpers. I never even imagined how hard of work they have to do to contain the fires. I appreciate how tough they are to keep us safe. They truly are brave! Shawn Grady does a great job at describing the scenes that I felt I was there along side with them. This was my first novel I read of Grady’s and it was worth it! If you want a great mystery novel then you should check out this one!
“I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House Publishers book review bloggers program.”
September 1, 2011
I am not really known for picking up a book that isn't primarily a romance or that is written by a man but I am really glad I read Falls Like Lightning!
Elle and Silas who once dated are thrown together years later when there is a major fire. Silas is a smoke jumper that jumps out of planes close to fires to take down trees and such in order to direct the path of the fire; Elle is a pilot that is specifically trained to fly in that area and in hard conditions like smoke!
Sparks fly when these two are reunited together again however they both have a lot to deal with in their personal lives. Elle is trying to cope with the loss of her father, who was in plane crash but never found, and her daughter who has seizures plus she is not sure if she should ever trust Silas again after he walked out on her years back.
Like I said before I don't typically read an action packed suspense but this one was worth the change in my style. Shawn Grady has a knack for creating scenes that are heated and intense! The action and mystery alongside the fire brewing with a side of romance was keeping my adrenaline pumping throughout most of the story. There was times when the fire lingo got to be a bit confusing for me that I found myself skimming to get the juicy action!
If you are looking for an action packed adventure with a smoke jumping hottie firefighter hero and an incredibly talented pilot then this is the book for you. You'll deal with evil, mystery, health issues of a child, loss of a parent, love lost and found all mixed together to create a great story!
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I am under no obligation to write a positive review, all opinions are my own.
Elle and Silas who once dated are thrown together years later when there is a major fire. Silas is a smoke jumper that jumps out of planes close to fires to take down trees and such in order to direct the path of the fire; Elle is a pilot that is specifically trained to fly in that area and in hard conditions like smoke!
Sparks fly when these two are reunited together again however they both have a lot to deal with in their personal lives. Elle is trying to cope with the loss of her father, who was in plane crash but never found, and her daughter who has seizures plus she is not sure if she should ever trust Silas again after he walked out on her years back.
Like I said before I don't typically read an action packed suspense but this one was worth the change in my style. Shawn Grady has a knack for creating scenes that are heated and intense! The action and mystery alongside the fire brewing with a side of romance was keeping my adrenaline pumping throughout most of the story. There was times when the fire lingo got to be a bit confusing for me that I found myself skimming to get the juicy action!
If you are looking for an action packed adventure with a smoke jumping hottie firefighter hero and an incredibly talented pilot then this is the book for you. You'll deal with evil, mystery, health issues of a child, loss of a parent, love lost and found all mixed together to create a great story!
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I am under no obligation to write a positive review, all opinions are my own.
July 20, 2011
Falls Like Lightning by Shawn Grady is a fast-paced novel about a smokejumper and a pilot trying to survive against both man and nature in the Desolation Wilderness in the Sierra Nevadas. Silas Kent loves his job fighting fires, but he's still struggling with his feelings for Elle Westmore even though he left her six years ago. He's suddenly forced to face those long-buried emotions when Elle is assigned as his pilot for him and a brand new crew to jump into the wilderness to fight a fire that is beginning to rage out of control. What Silas and Elle don't know is that their crew has a completely different mission in mind, and they aren't afraid to sacrifice anyone to achieve it. Falls Like Lightning has a stunning opening line that will quickly pull readers in: Heaven banished Lucifer in one air-rending fissure. Grady's books always make me long for a sequel, not that he doesn't end his stories well, he does! I just come to care about the characters so much, I'm not ready to let them go. Grady tries to pack a bit too much into this action-packed suspense novel. Between the bad guys search for gold, Silas and Elle's past, Elle's search for her missing father, and her daughter Maddie's health issues, it seems like an awful lot of subplots to pack into less than 300 pages, and it strains imagination for every single issue to be resolved so neatly. Grady is a strong and imaginative writer who is taking Christian fiction into new lands, but I wish this novel had focused only on Silas and Elle vs the bad guys; that would have been plenty of excitement and kept the thrills coming.
September 17, 2011
"Smokejumper Silas Kent never expected to see pilot Elle Westmore again. In fact, reuniting makes him realize what a mistake he made all those years ago. But before he has a chance to try to make amends, he's called to lead a new crew into battle against a massive fire in the Sierra Nevadas.
And then things go very wrong, very quickly.
A suspicious engine explosion forces the crew to parachute early while Elle barely survives a crash landing. Silas reaches the ground safely, but in beginning a desperate race to reach the downed plane, he soon realizes he has more to fear than just a raging forest fire." ~ the publisher
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Packed with suspense, mystery and a touch of romance, Shawn Grady has brought his characters to life. From the opening fire-rescue scene to the closing drama, we are drawn into the life of smoke jumpers - unsung heroes who jump out of planes to fight the fires consuming forests, homes and the environment - and the pilots who willingly fly into danger.
Click here too learn more about the author Shawn Grady.
I enjoyed the book, but had a little trouble keeping all the characters straight in the beginning. As the story unfolded, they became clearer. With the use of flashbacks, we learn more about their history and backgrounds. The author's firefighting background and knowledge shine through in this book.
To read the first 5 chapters, click HERE!
My rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
I received this complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review.
And then things go very wrong, very quickly.
A suspicious engine explosion forces the crew to parachute early while Elle barely survives a crash landing. Silas reaches the ground safely, but in beginning a desperate race to reach the downed plane, he soon realizes he has more to fear than just a raging forest fire." ~ the publisher
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Packed with suspense, mystery and a touch of romance, Shawn Grady has brought his characters to life. From the opening fire-rescue scene to the closing drama, we are drawn into the life of smoke jumpers - unsung heroes who jump out of planes to fight the fires consuming forests, homes and the environment - and the pilots who willingly fly into danger.
Click here too learn more about the author Shawn Grady.
I enjoyed the book, but had a little trouble keeping all the characters straight in the beginning. As the story unfolded, they became clearer. With the use of flashbacks, we learn more about their history and backgrounds. The author's firefighting background and knowledge shine through in this book.
To read the first 5 chapters, click HERE!
My rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
I received this complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review.
August 24, 2011
Sizzling adrenaline rush!
Take a man who grew up with no family ties, always depended on himself, drawn to adventure and excitement; and you have a natural born smokejumper. Add a beautiful woman who loves to fly and you have a mixture that is sure to set off some sparks. Silas Kent and Elle Westmore were instantly attracted to each other when they first met but circumstances caused them to go their own separate ways. Years later they meet again and find themselves working together in the midst of raging wildfires through the Sierra Nevadas. But they soon find that fire and a turbulent past are not the only things they have to combat if they want to pursue a future together.
The authors’ command of the written word is superb—his descriptions riveting and exciting. The book is fast paced and full of danger, romance, and adventure—I read it through in four hours. The characters were believable, the plot exciting, the ending satisfying. The book was not preachy but God was woven through the pages in a quiet and realistic way. Bottom line, this book has everything I look for in a good piece of fiction.
I received this complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers for this review. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are my own.
Take a man who grew up with no family ties, always depended on himself, drawn to adventure and excitement; and you have a natural born smokejumper. Add a beautiful woman who loves to fly and you have a mixture that is sure to set off some sparks. Silas Kent and Elle Westmore were instantly attracted to each other when they first met but circumstances caused them to go their own separate ways. Years later they meet again and find themselves working together in the midst of raging wildfires through the Sierra Nevadas. But they soon find that fire and a turbulent past are not the only things they have to combat if they want to pursue a future together.
The authors’ command of the written word is superb—his descriptions riveting and exciting. The book is fast paced and full of danger, romance, and adventure—I read it through in four hours. The characters were believable, the plot exciting, the ending satisfying. The book was not preachy but God was woven through the pages in a quiet and realistic way. Bottom line, this book has everything I look for in a good piece of fiction.
I received this complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers for this review. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are my own.
August 28, 2011
Silas and Elle parted under difficult circumstances and when they are thrown together again, years later, they discover the spark between them still burns bright. As the fire season rages in the Sierra Nevadas, Silas is brought in to lead a smoke jumping team and Elle is called upon to fly them into the forest. However, nothing quite goes as planned and when Silas has to bail out of the plane, Elle tries to make an emergency landing. Stuck in the Sierras as a fire rages nearby, they must try and find each other all while realizing the smoke jumping crew isn't there simply to fight the forest fire.
Shawn's descriptions are vivid and bold. His familiarity with the locales and his personal experience as a firefighter/paramedic is apparent and make this story all the richer. Elle and Silas are terrific characters. I didn't want the story to end and I would love a sequel or at least have them show up in a future book. (Hint, hint!)
I love the setting and references. I'm from the San Francisco Bay area: I know Oakland and San Mateo. I love the Sierra Nevadas and I now live in Idaho. And Star Trek Next Generation references? I am all over that!
A thrilling, suspenseful novel full of action and just enough Christian romance.
Shawn's descriptions are vivid and bold. His familiarity with the locales and his personal experience as a firefighter/paramedic is apparent and make this story all the richer. Elle and Silas are terrific characters. I didn't want the story to end and I would love a sequel or at least have them show up in a future book. (Hint, hint!)
I love the setting and references. I'm from the San Francisco Bay area: I know Oakland and San Mateo. I love the Sierra Nevadas and I now live in Idaho. And Star Trek Next Generation references? I am all over that!
A thrilling, suspenseful novel full of action and just enough Christian romance.
October 9, 2011
FALLS LIKE LIGHTNING by Shawn Grady is an exciting inspirational suspense set in Desolation Wilderness,in the Sierra Nevadas.It has smoke,fire,faith,smokejumpers,pilots,suspense, mystery,secrets,loss,deceit, murder,plane crashes,hidden gold,loss,betrayal, a bit of romance and a plane full of drama. This is the story of Smokejumper Silas Kent and pilot Elle Westmore making amends for the past,a raging forest fire,a betrayal,and their desire for survival. While both Silas Kent and Elle must come to grips with their past,they also must resolve to their losses. With a strong hero,heroine and a believable plot this is a must read. “Falls Like Lightning” will have you turning pages from beginning to end as these characters build a fire full of drama,smoke and love. Readers of suspense,inspirational,mystery, romance will enjoy “Falls Like Lightning”. This is my first read by this author but will not be my last. Readers who enjoyed Colleen Coble’s Smoke Jumpers (Fire Dancer) will enjoy Shawn Grady’s “Falls Like Lightning also. A great read that has a few twists and turns as well as strong characters. Received for review from the publisher. Details can be found at Bethany House and My Book Addiction Reviews.
October 9, 2012
People who like a little suspense and action in the book they read would probably be interested in this book. Although it did have some action in it, the plot moved rather slowly and the action took awhile to develop. The book is classified as a romance, but romance didn't seem central to the story. Firefighting was also involved in the plot some, but eventually takes a backseat to the gold theft. I think this book could be read and liked by guys or girls, but I would more strongly recommend it to women because guys would be uninterested in the romance aspect of it.
This book wasn't what I expected at all, which in this case was a bad thing. I thought , based on the back of the book summary and the book cover the story was a love story about a firefighter and pilot. The book turns out to be more about a man's evil plan to steal gold. I'm sure some other people might've liked it, but it isn't the type of story I find interesting. Part of the problem I had with the book was that is was presented as a fictional story that could happen in real life, but some of the events seemed pretty far-fetched.
This book wasn't what I expected at all, which in this case was a bad thing. I thought , based on the back of the book summary and the book cover the story was a love story about a firefighter and pilot. The book turns out to be more about a man's evil plan to steal gold. I'm sure some other people might've liked it, but it isn't the type of story I find interesting. Part of the problem I had with the book was that is was presented as a fictional story that could happen in real life, but some of the events seemed pretty far-fetched.
September 8, 2014
The forest fire danger and the romantic tension between Silas and pilot Elle Westmore would be enough to make this a good read, but it gets better: One jump team is after a cache of gold in the fire’s path—and the flames will destroy evidence of any “accidental” deaths if anyone tries to cross them.
Shawn Grady gives readers an insider’s look at this specialized form of fire-fighting. I could really imagine myself in the scene.
Like action novels? This one’s for you. Like emotional tension? It’s for you, too. Not only do Silas and Elle have unresolved baggage from their past relationship, they each have their individual issues they’re working through.
I enjoyed Falls Like Lightning, and the characters kept coming back to me when life interrupted my reading. I'll be looking for Shawn Grady's other novels.
[Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.]
Shawn Grady gives readers an insider’s look at this specialized form of fire-fighting. I could really imagine myself in the scene.
Like action novels? This one’s for you. Like emotional tension? It’s for you, too. Not only do Silas and Elle have unresolved baggage from their past relationship, they each have their individual issues they’re working through.
I enjoyed Falls Like Lightning, and the characters kept coming back to me when life interrupted my reading. I'll be looking for Shawn Grady's other novels.
[Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.]
October 16, 2011
Title: FALLS LIKE LIGHTNING
Author: Shawn Grady
Publisher: Bethany House
July 2011
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0597-2
Genre: Inspirational/suspense
Smokejumper Silas Kent never expected to see pilot Elle Westmore again. Years ago, Silas had fallen in love with her—but then ran, not ready to commit. Elle had married another.
But now, Silas realizes the mistake he made. Before he has a chance to make amends, he’s called to lead a new crew into battle against a massive fire in the Sierra Nevadas.
But then things go wrong very quickly. And Silas faces a desperate race from more than just a raging forest fire…
FALLS LIKE LIGHTNING is the first book I’ve read by Shawn Grady, but it won’t be the last. I’ve always been interested in smokejumpers and so when I was offered this book for review I jumped at it. But this is more than just a smokejumping. There is a plot that is so sinister that people must die. Lots of action.
This book is a real page turner. I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended. Five stars. $14.99. 300 pages.
I received this book in return for review from the publishers.
February 24, 2012
Falls Like Lightning is a fast-paced, action-packed read with a little mystery and romance thrown in to shake things up. I am a huge mystery buff, so that was my favorite aspect of the story. The relationship between Elle and Silas was not as well developed as I would have liked. I am more drawn toward character-centered stories and I felt like this book was more action-oriented.
There is a fair amount of technical jargon related to smokejumping which readers will have to adapt to. I didn’t feel like this bogged me down too much while reading, and it was interesting to learn about a profession which I knew nothing about. Grady is able to write with authority and authenticity on this subject because he was a firefighter himself.
Falls Like Lightning was an entertaining read and it took me no time to fly through it, but the underemphasis on character development ultimately makes it pretty forgettable.
There is a fair amount of technical jargon related to smokejumping which readers will have to adapt to. I didn’t feel like this bogged me down too much while reading, and it was interesting to learn about a profession which I knew nothing about. Grady is able to write with authority and authenticity on this subject because he was a firefighter himself.
Falls Like Lightning was an entertaining read and it took me no time to fly through it, but the underemphasis on character development ultimately makes it pretty forgettable.
October 15, 2011
Smoke Jumpers in the middle of a forest fire started by lightning... acres and acres on fire and towns in danger. Enter the good guys - the ones that clear the path to stop the fire... but is that all they are there to do? Who are the good guys and who are the bad guys and how many of them will die before it is all over? A legend of a hidden cache of gold might just be enough to make the best people bad. Elle is the pilot in the middle of everything on a mission of her own - to save her daughter and find her missing father. Her blast from the past is Silas who ran out on her 7 years ago and has now shown back up. After everything they went through can Elle forgive and forget?
This book is a wild ride from page one and I spent a lot of time trying to figure out the good guys and the bad guys. No one is immune from demise, which as a reader is always nice because the book is unpredictable. Really enjoyed this one and the heart pounding journey it took me on!
This book is a wild ride from page one and I spent a lot of time trying to figure out the good guys and the bad guys. No one is immune from demise, which as a reader is always nice because the book is unpredictable. Really enjoyed this one and the heart pounding journey it took me on!
September 12, 2012
I liked this book because it kept me turning pages and I learned a lot about smoke jumpers and how they fight fires and that was really cool. Silas Kent's pickup line about eight guys stopping a thousand acre forest fire with no water would have totally worked on me. The plot was good and moved at a good pace though I would have liked to have seen more of the romantic interplay between the hero and heroine. I know it's kind of hard to do with people trying to kill you and all, and there were some scenes that will stay with me. I felt the old man in the woods character and Bo's characters to be playing into strong stereotypes but because there is some truth to every stereotype, I didn't find theirs characters unbelievable. Though I would say if I were a member of one of those stereotyped groups, I would probably be offended by this work. In spite of that, I enjoyed the read overall and would read this author again.
January 6, 2016
A raging forest fire, a reunited love, and a murderous crew--smokejumper Silas Kent learns the meaning of survival and endurance.
This third book written by Shawn Grady exceeds expectations. From the first page to the last, the reader finds himself thrust into a fast moving, action-packed story. You will forget that this story only covers the span of a few days.
Surprisingly, Shawn Grady has superbly written from many point-of-views without weakening the storyline. The reader will see through the eyes of the protagonists and the antagonists, delving deep into their thoughts and actions. Very rare do you see this level of writing.
I look forward to many more books by Shawn Grady....
Once again, another book will have a permanent spot on my shelf because Shawn Grady
This third book written by Shawn Grady exceeds expectations. From the first page to the last, the reader finds himself thrust into a fast moving, action-packed story. You will forget that this story only covers the span of a few days.
Surprisingly, Shawn Grady has superbly written from many point-of-views without weakening the storyline. The reader will see through the eyes of the protagonists and the antagonists, delving deep into their thoughts and actions. Very rare do you see this level of writing.
I look forward to many more books by Shawn Grady....
Once again, another book will have a permanent spot on my shelf because Shawn Grady
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