Whew! This book takes off at a full-fledged sprint right out of the gate and doesn’t slow down until the epilogue! Immediately from the opening line – “The gun came out of nowhere.” – Susan Sleeman plunges the reader into a high-action case packed with the best sort of tension, drama, suspense, and of course romance. I really enjoy a good suspense story, and Silent Night Standoff falls solidly in that category. There’s no slow build-up or wasted space here. Every minute counts in the battle for Skyler’s life, and every word contributes as Sleeman unfurls the plot one page at a time.

It’s a quick read (I finished it in an evening) but that doesn’t diminish its quality in any way. The characters are strong, well-developed, and personable – all important traits to carry a series. Logan and Skyler’s history added a different sort of tension to the mix and combined with the high action of the case their story could easily compete with any law enforcement drama on TV. Underneath it all flows a quiet, never pushy, thread of faith that brings peace in the storm and clarity in the chaos.

Bottom Line:

I enjoyed the characters, I loved the complexity and action of the plot, and I appreciated that it had elements of a longer novel despite the shorter page count. If you are a fan of TV shows like Rizzoli and Isles, Castle, The Closer, etc. then you will want to move Silent Night Standoff by Susan Sleeman to the top of your TBR list! The fact that it’s a Christmas novel? An added bonus!

(I received a copy from the author in exchange for only my honest review.) ( )

Skyler is a hostage negotiator. But she soon realizes that things are completely different from the other side. She's cashing a check at the bank when the infamous Bonnie and Clyde couple storms in and starts pointing their guns. Logan, an FBI agent, is soon on the scene. He's great at his job. But there is one tiny problem - he dumped Skyler to pursue his career two years ago. Skyler and her team of first responders are a close knit group. They all live in the old fire station and are closer than family. They aren't going to be super happy to let him into their group while they solve the bank robbery.

The tension starts out immediately with the bank robbery. It doesn't stop until the last few pages as the group of first responders tries to stop the bank robber and the person trying to kill Skyler. The characters were well developed and authentic. Each person stood out on the team and the little side information helps the reader anticipate the next books in the series. I liked the faith elements that were woven into the story with the suspense. The relationship between the two main characters was sweet. This was a great book to start the series and I look forward to reading the next books.

I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review. ( )

Page Turning Suspense!

Author Susan Sleeman knows how to write a great suspense story. This is the second book I have read of hers. I am looking forward to reading more.

Skyler Brennan finds herself in a very bad situation. In the midst of a bank robbery she must put her skills to work as a hostage negotiator. Things quickly turn sour. Her very life is at stake. Someone is stalking her and wishes to see her dead. Many attempts are made on her life.

This story gives you a glimpse of Skyler’s past and present life, her past and present hurts too.

Skyler has developed a strong bond with her co-workers. They are truly family in every sense of the word. Can this family of hers save her before it is too late?

Pick up a copy today. I really enjoyed this great read and I highly recommend it. ( )