Shielding the Innocent Target by Terri Reed pulled me in from the beginning. I liked the characters especially Kenny and Aslan (what a clever and sweet therapy dog). I enjoyed the action, suspense, and mystery. There were twists and turns that kept things lively. There is a thrilling conclusion to the whodunit. Faith was nicely woven into the story. My favorite phrase is from the verse in Romans “In all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” The finale had me smiling. I did feel, though, that the ending was a tad rushed (I would have liked an epilogue). I have a feeling that Kenny will continue to wear a cowboy hat like his hero. Shielding the Innocent Target is the final book in the author’s U.S. Marshal series (Lucas first appeared in Forced to Hide), but it can be read as a standalone. Shielding the Innocent Target is a suspenseful tale with a slain prosecutor, an adorable boy, a protective cowboy, an astute therapy dog, a resolute killer, and a rare romance. ( )

Shielding the Innocent Target, concluding the wonderful U.S. Marshall series, is fast-paced and packed with action! I figured out early on who was behind the plot to eliminate the witness, but that did not distract from the enjoyment of the read. The smoothly flowing plot drew me in from the beginning and held me fast to the end. The characters are expertly crafted and realistic. The romantic tension between U.S. Deputy Marshall Lucas Cavendish and witness Paige Walsh runs as high as the suspense of the dangerous circumstances they find themselves in on their perilous trip from Florida to Texas never knowing who to trust. I love Paige’s strength and Lucas’s determination. Who could resist brave six-year-old Kenny and his super-attentive therapy dog Aslan? I enjoyed being reunited with characters from previous books. Even though there are carryover characters, this book is easily read as a standalone. I think fans of romantic suspense will love this story. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ( )

A quick stop at the boss’s office ends in a run for her life. Paige, a paralegal for a federal prosecutor, sees and hears a murder and now she is the target. Lucas is a US Marshal tasked with protecting her and her young son, Kenny.

Running for her life becomes a game of cat and mouse as somehow the murderer always seems to find her, her son and her protector. The danger will not end until the perpetrator is caught. Only problem - he seems to have endless resources as RPGs demolish vehicles and buildings alike.

The non-stop action of this Love Inspired Suspense is sure to keep you guessing all the way through. An early copy was received through BookFunnel. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited. ( )

"Shielding the Innocent Target" by Terri Reed is another wonderful read by this Christian author! This is the last book in the US Marshal series. However, each novel stands alone and can be read in any order, without losing focus of the characters and plot. In the final book in this series, Paige Walsh witnesses the murder of her boss, Federal Prosecutor, Donald Lessing. Paige is not trusting of a lot of people. However, she finds that she must trust Deputy US Marshall Lucas Cavendish, if she and her son Kenny are to make it safely to Texas, and eventually into the Witness Protection Program. Thus, the adventure begins. The plot is filled with adventure and intrigue. Who can they trust? Is there a "mole" within the organization? Will there be a "happily ever after"? You will need to read this thriller to find out! ( )

Shielding the Innocent Target by Terri Reed is a breath-stealing blend of romantic suspense and unshakeable faith. We meet Paige Walsh, a woman thrust into a terrifying situation after witnessing her boss's murder. As a relentless assassin sets his sights on Paige and her son, Deputy US Marshal Lucas Cavendish becomes their protector - a shield against physical harm and the relentless shadows of fear.

This novel goes beyond typical romantic suspense. Reed authentically portrays God as the comforting presence, offering solace amidst the constant danger. We see Paige clinging to prayer as a lifeline, the sovereignty of God -- drawing strength from her beliefs during moments of despair. Lucas, too, looks to God for His peace, guidance, protection, offering a unique dynamic to their bond.

What truly sets this book apart is the pervasive sense of danger. Unlike stories with temporary safe havens, the threat here is a constant companion. No matter the bustling city or desolate highway, the assassin seems to be one step ahead, leaving Paige and Lucas perpetually on edge. This relentless pursuit creates a suffocating atmosphere, amplifying the emotional stakes with every turn of the page.

In the face of relentless danger, Lucas's faith becomes a lifeline. His whispered pleas for divine intervention punctuate the narrative. From the providential discovery of a functioning truck despite a flat tire to the overwhelming relief of surviving a night unscathed, every moment underscores their gratitude for God's protection. These instances highlight the profound connection between faith and resilience, where even the smallest blessings are celebrated as divine intervention in the midst of life-or-death situations.

Shielding the Innocent Target isn't for the faint of heart. It's a white-knuckle rollercoaster ride where danger lurks around every corner. What elevates this novel is its genuine portrayal of the Christian journey. Through the characters' struggles and the ongoing terrors, the unwavering presence of God shines brightly. This journey leads to a deeper faith for both the characters and the reader alike. Brace yourself to be ensnared not just by the relentless suspense, but also by the formidable shield of faith, piercing through the darkest of circumstances with a beacon of hope and unwavering courage, hitting the target of your heart with its transformative force.

I received a digital copy of Shielding the Innocent Target from the publisher via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.