Honorably discharged from the Army after an explosion nearly killed her, former military psychiatrist Brooke Adams has set up shop to help others–but her days of helping military personnel are over. She’s got her own battles to fight from her time overseas, and she’s not equipped to take on more. Former Army Special Ops Sergeant First Class Asher James could handle anything that war sent his … way–terrorists, bombs, bullets. The only thing that scares him now is sleep. As the shadows close in, the nightmares begin.
Finally convinced that he needs help, Asher makes an appointment with a counselor, and Brooke is pressed by her boss to take him on. When he arrives at her office she isn’t there–but a dead body is. Brooke is devastated when she walks in, and Asher is a conveniently strong shoulder to cry on. But she can’t take him on as a client after sharing such an intimate and unprofessional moment, can she? And he’s not sure he can handle sharing his deepest fears with such a beautiful woman.
When it becomes clear that Brooke was the real target of the attack–and that her secrets go even deeper than his own–Asher vows to protect her no matter what.
Bestselling author Lynette Eason is back with a new series that spans the globe and will have your heart working overtime.
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“She’d thought she left the killing and the dying thousands of miles away in a country she did her best to forget existed.”
As I’ve mentioned before, mystery and suspense novels have long been favorites of mine, but I usually read these genres within the Christian literary canon, and the majority of the fiction works I have the opportunity to review fall into the romance category. I am always thrilled to discover another Christian suspense author, and Lynette Eason fits the bill. “Collateral Damage” is classified as romantic suspense, and I feel that Eason achieved the desired balance to keep readers turning pages as they appreciate the romantic angle. She also skillfully handles the multiple plotlines as they converge throughout the narrative, making each distinctive without overwhelming readers. The crime scene investigation and forensic details drew me into the story the most; the novel’s opening chapters, focusing on the American military in Afghanistan, admittedly were over my head, and I struggled with understanding the various vehicles and weapons being described, but after those initial scenes events became clearer.
Besides enjoying the storyline of “Collateral Damage”, I also appreciated the extent of social detail that Eason offers. The mostly inferior role of women in the Middle East comes through in several scenes and marks a startling contrast with what we expect in the United States. This was the first time that I have heard of a combat photographer, whose work in this story precipitates the action surrounding former military psychiatrist Brooke Adams and former Army Special Ops Sergeant First Class Asher James. One of the most interesting parts of this book, in my opinion, is the variety of roles within the military and how they work together both on duty and after discharge. Because of a dying soldier’s final request and the photos taken in the aftermath of a targeted explosion, Brooke finds herself in mortal peril with much more to deal with than just processing her own trauma. As such, the author also realistically and respectfully presents post-traumatic stress disorder and how it manifests in military personnel. For instance, a ceiling fan may trigger an episode because of its resemblance to a helicopter. Reading this novel increased my respect for our military even more. Most importantly, the faith element reminds Brooke, along with readers, that God is our ultimate strong tower and that He goes before us, always protecting, guiding, and loving us.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I think this just might be my favorite Lynette Eason book of all time. WOW it was amazing from page one to the very end. I was sitting on the edge of my seat, fidgety until I could start reading again (why does work get in the way?!), and holding my breath through most of the action. This book has it all – suspense, twists, action, romance, surprises and more!
Here are some notes I took while reading (omitting any spoiler information):
Um the hero has a tattoo on his neck – Wowza!
Eason brings several real topics to light. Thankful for that.
The chemistry between Brooke and Asher is immediate. Yes I already love this couple.
Bringing Caden’s storyline is like solving two mysteries at once!
I cannot put this book down!
WOWZA. That kiss! Phew, get the fans going.
That moment the light bulb goes off and your heart breaks (because you figure out the who and you don’t like it!).
Oh that dirtbag!! (sorry can’t reveal more or you’ll figure out the whodunit)
Yeah, I was flipping through these pages as fast as my eyes would read them. Here are the emotions I went through while reading – surprise, fear, astonishment, disgust, surprise, love, shock, happiness, heartbreak, and delight. I don’t know how Eason managed to include all of these in one novel, but she did so brilliantly.
Now, one thing I do want to point out, and I don’t consider this a spoiler, is the way Eason dealt with Asher being from the military. Well both him and Brooke really, but it’s Asher’s interactions with his family, namely his brother, that really got to me. It made me wonder how many other service men and women deal with families in the same way – either ashamed or embarrassed by their decision to enter the military. And maybe that’s not how they truly feel at all, maybe it’s shock, denial, or just the fact that they don’t understand. I was really touched by this part of the storyline, and it made me want to make even more sure that I treat our service people with more respect and dignity than I do now.
Collateral Damage is an engaging story with a side of romance, and real world issues. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My rating is a 3.5 on Lynette’s newest read. This book is certainly action packed. It starts off with action just a few pages in and it’s a thrill ride from start to finish. I liked Brooke and Asher and meeting the side characters we are sure to see more of as the series continues. The plot was interesting and unique but the what the crime ended up being was a little much for this Mama’s heart. There was also another plot twist that wasn’t my favorite element. It fit the storyline well, but the evil in this book was a mite overwhelming to me. That being said, Lynette crafted a well plotted story that moved extremely well. It was a fairly easy read as I read most of it in one day. Looking forward to the next in the series later this summer.
I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. This review is my honest opinion.
I liked the theme of the book how the author explored military personnel and the repercussions war has on them. It was nice to read about PTSD in a realistic way and show how hard it is to overcome this illness. The title is perfect for this story and was intriguing to read.
Two peoples lives collide in this action packed story as a dead body turns up and danger follows. The two main characters work well together and I liked how they each had a past that was similar.
It is a fast paced story that looks at the military and delivers an edge of your seat thrilling book with danger, adventure and a bit of romance. This is one book you don’t want to miss.
I received a copy of this book from Librarything Early Readers Program. The review is my own opinion.
Lynette Eason’s books have been on my must read list for several years for good reason. Each one seems to be even better than the last and Collateral Damage definitely ranks right there at the top. I was a bit confused by the two different story lines at first but I knew that eventually I would understand. Page by page and chapter by chapter I watched all the different threads come together perfectly to make perfect sense.
So many twists and turns and surprises made for a page-turning experience that made it difficult to stop and take care of my normal responsibilities. Character development was excellent – I enjoyed getting to know Brooke and Asher and watching their relationship develop as they also helped each other heal from their past trauma. Several secondary characters played major roles in the story and I am hoping some of them turn up in one of the sequels in this series. Like always, Eason kept me guessing until the true villain was revealed and I can truthfully say that I had a tiny suspicion but was still surprised. It is truly sad when a mind becomes so twisted that a person tries to justify their evil actions.
Difficult subjects such as PTSD and human trafficking are covered in this story that thankfully ends well due to characters who learn to depend on the Lord’s help. Collateral Damage is an awesome novel and I recommend it to all lovers of Christian suspense.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
If they sleep, death will catch up to them…
Well, I was quite surprised by Collateral Damage. It started out like a typical Lynette Eason romantic suspense but then she took it in a direction that I never expected. This plot point is one not often seen in Christian fiction, but, dark as it is, awareness needs to be raised.
While probably not my favorite Lynette Eason book, Collateral Damage is still a good story. The action scenes were top notch, and there were plenty of them, and I liked the connection between Asher and Brooke, having both been in the military in a war zone they each understand the other’s issues like no one else could.
Collateral Damage had a number of disparate threads that, at first, I wondered how they could possibly be brought together, but, Lynette Eason did so and quite nicely at that. As I mentioned before, this book had a lot of action not to mention some pretty chilling moments. So, if romantic suspense with hard-hitting issues is your thing you should check the first book in the Danger Never Sleeps series…
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Ooh the action packed into this story! Lynette Eason starts her new series off right with a high octane, adrenaline pumping adventure! This story focuses on Brooke and Asher, two veterans tied together by a recent tragedy. Both are suffering from PTSD, which brings them together a second time. The bad guys are involved in a truly disgusting and heartbreaking crime and I honestly wasn’t sure who to trust until the very end. If you’re a fan of military thrillers or romantic suspense and authors like Ronie Kendig and Dani Pettrey you’ll definitely want to read this one! I cannot wait for book two and in the meantime, I’ll be catching up on some of Eason’s previous series.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Suspected treachery. An ambush of Army troops. An explosion in a cafe. Collateral Damage begins with danger and excitement and these two elements continue throughout the book. Asher James and Brooke Adams both face near death during their Army service in Afghanistan but their individual returns to civilian life don’t prove to be any safer. Brooke sets up private practice as a psychiatrist but soon becomes a target and it is former Army Sergent James who becomes involved in her protection. Asher is now a FBI agent and he and Brooke feverishly race to learn who is trying to harm her. Is there a cover-up involving incidents from their Army service? Were secrets really sold to jihadists and if so, was an innocent soldier labeled a traitor? Is it possible that there is something much more sinister that someone is hiding? Something worth killing for?
This is the first book of a new series from Lynette Eason and she definitely grabbed my attention with her depiction of the ugliness of war and its aftermaths. Collateral Damage has villians, intrigue, and unthinkable acts caused by greed but Eason also adds heroes, faith, and the Christian values that our country was built on. Reading this book increased my pulse rate and caused me to lose sleep but it was definitely worth these side effects! This is romantic suspense at its best and I truly enjoyed Collateral Damage. I’m looking forward to the next book in the Danger Never Sleeps series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell but I was under no obligation to leave a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
I have enjoyed previous books written by Lynnette Eason in the past and Collateral Damage is by far my favorite I have read by her to date. It is a fabulous beginning to her new series, Danger Never Sleeps. This suspense filled tale is one that made me not want to put it down until I had the whole book read in one sitting. Which was time well spent.
Collateral Damage gets five plus stars from me. I look forward to reading the next installment from the Danger Never Sleeps series. I can not wait for its release.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
This is the start to a brand new series called “Danger Never Sleeps”. I love series type books and I especially love Lynette Eason’s suspense books. WOW! This story was so so good from beginning to end! Lots of action, suspense, drama and some clean romance. Lots of twists and turns that kept me guessing and wondering what was going to happen.
Brooke and Asher are the main characters in the book although there are several more team members that were introduced throughout the story. I liked reading about their different roles an how they helped each other along the way. Flashbacks from their time in Afghanistan, their PTSD struggles and their military service was interesting to read about as they both tried to work thru their guilt and memories-looking to the future instead of the past.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series when it’s released in August. I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
This book was fantastic. It should totally have a movie adaptation.
Filled with action, suspense and a sweet dose of romance.
The book was captivating from the first page to the last. It will keep you reading to know what happens next.
I admired women like Brooke who go into a profession so dangerous but are fearless and choose to help people. Her tact and wisdom with the military men she worked with was outstanding. As a military psychiatrist she came in contact with a lot of pain and damage but her faith in God, prayers and sweet heart kept her above water. Even when her own life was in jeopardy she took it in stride.
Sweet Asher! I admired how he protected Brooke. He had his own demons to fight because of his experiences on the battle fields of Afghanistan but he still went out of his way to help others.
The both of them were thrown together to put down some very bad people. I loved how the author wove the story about a couple of characters and places expertly with a lot of twists and turns.
The faith content of the book warmed my heart. One theme caught my interest throughout the book; God created us for a reason.
I received a copy of the book and this is my honest opinion
Lynette Eason’s newest series, Danger Never Sleeps, starts out with a bang! I devoured Collateral Damage in less than 24 hours.
To my knowledge, Eason hasn’t touched upon military themes for a suspense book before. (Possibly in a Love Inspired story, although if so, it was a military hero, not an actual military-based story.) But I was very excited to see that the military was a heavy theme in this story! Some of my favorite suspense books are military suspense. (Ronie Kendig anyone?) The first two chapters are an explosion of action–literally–and drew me right into the story. I was quickly able to relate to our main characters, Asher James and Brook Adams. Both were complex and unique and I enjoyed getting to know them throughout the story.
Suspense-wise, this book doesn’t stop. (Did I mention I finished it in less than 24 hours?) With too many twists and turns to count, this is just what you’d expect from a suspense novel, and more specifically, a Lynette Eason suspense novel. Eason’s trademark writing style is simple and succinct, without there ever being a lack of detail. The romance was also very “Lynette-style,” and I always appreciate how things never become too sensual or detailed. (Although for more sensitive romance readers, there is some kissing, touching, and passionate thoughts.)
All in all, I greatly enjoyed Eason’s debut into her newest series, and I’m on the edge of my seat waiting for book 2! I highly recommend fans of romantic suspense, particularly with military themes, check this one out!
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Collateral Damage by Lynette Eason is the first book in her new series. The plot line reminds me a lot of a Ronie Kendig novel with all the military members and procedures but still carries the dramatic flair Eason is known for. The suspense keeps the readers guessing to the end. At first, I was a little confused with the subplot because it really had nothing to do with the current action, but keep with it. As the story progresses, Eason does a wonderful job at tying the two stories together. The characters of Asher and Brooke are a wonderful introduction to the beginning of a unique cast of characters. I really enjoyed how Brooke has been done before, but I really liked how Eason made her an ex-soldier herself so she could empathize with the soldiers as she tried to help them with their PSTD. Of course, Eason includes a romantic thread between the characters. It wasn’t too overbearing, but there were moments where the romance peak its head. Overall, Collateral Damage by Lynette Eason was a thrilling glance into the world of soldiers with plenty of suspenseful moments and a hint of romance. I really can’t wait to read her next book in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of Collateral Damage by Lynette Eason from Revell Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I loved this start to a new series by Lynette Eason. I am never disappointed with these stories. This one starts with a former army special ops soldier and a former military psychiatrist. These two both have stuff to work out from their time in a war zone. It ends up with them needing each other to help them through a lot of twists and turns. There is a little romance throughout and a lot of action. I can’t wait to find out how this story continues in the second book of the series. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
Brooke Adams is a former military psychiatrist , who barely escaped an explosion with her life. She is setting into civilian life, when her past comes back to haunt her and a killer on her trail.
Asher James has worked his way up in the military into the special forces through old fashioned hard work, doing dangerous things that few could imagine, but he’s been having trouble sleeping at night. So he goes to Brooke, because he remembers her from a mission in Afghanistan.
Together can they help each other, and stop the killers before it’s too late?
Fast-paced, suspenseful new series from Lynette Eason. I didn’t want to put in down and read it all in just two sittings. Asher is a very brave man who has faced down fear on many levels, I liked how he wanted to help Brooke and took it upon himself to help protect her.
Brooke has leaned on her faith through all the traumatic experiences that she has been through, she is passionate about her work, and wants her work to be meaningful. I admired her resilience and how she encouraged others to turn to their faith as well.
There was great relationship building throughout, Brooke and Asher had a unique understanding of each other because of their similar past experiences. There were many well developed side characters and a lot going on. I didn’t want to put it down, as the pieces all fell satisfyingly into place. There was such a well balanced blend of relationship building, suspense, mystery, romance and faith. This fantastic read will not disappoint!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
If you’re a Lynette Eason fan (and if you’re not, this series debut is sure to make you one), strap in for a thrill ride that’s high-octane, super speedy, and extremely relevant.
Brooke and Asher both have strong personalities, but they balance each other well because they are also able to understand each other’s struggles. While Asher cares about Brooke and wants to protect her, he also respects and listens to her.
The suspense in this book is intense and kept me guessing until the exact moment I suspect Eason wanted to reveal all to her readers. And while I sometimes don’t personally feel like Eason put enough romance in her brand of romantic suspense for my liking, Collateral Damage has the perfect mix of everything.
I’m already looking forward to Sarah’s book coming later this year!
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Last year, starting a new Lynette Eason series meant my Christmas decorations stayed up a couple of weeks later. Same story this year! Collateral Damage had me intrigued to start and gripped very quickly thereafter. I liked how events stateside tied into the crucial work of the military in Afghanistan, but ultimately the bad guy was not the predictable choice. There’s a very interesting plot twist toward the end that I didn’t see coming and several of the secondary characters jumped out so there’s plenty to look forward too.
Honorably discharged from the Army after an explosion nearly killed her, former military psychiatrist Brooke Adams has set up shop to help others–but her days of helping military personnel are over. She’s got her own battles to fight from her time overseas, and she’s not equipped to take on more. Former Army Special Ops Sergeant First Class Asher James could handle anything that war sent his way–terrorists, bombs, bullets. The only thing that scares him now is sleep. As the shadows close in, the nightmares begin.
Finally convinced that he needs help, Asher makes an appointment with a counselor, and Brooke is pressed by her boss to take him on. When he arrives at her office she isn’t there–but a dead body is. Brooke is devastated when she walks in, and Asher is a conveniently strong shoulder to cry on. But she can’t take him on as a client after sharing such an intimate and unprofessional moment, can she? And he’s not sure he can handle sharing his deepest fears with such a beautiful woman.
When it becomes clear that Brooke was the real target of the attack–and that her secrets go even deeper than his own–Asher vows to protect her no matter what.
This is another great book by Ms. Eason. A great suspense that kept me reading long after I should have gone to bed. Both Asher and Brooke suffer from PTSD. Asher finally knows he needs help with his PTSD and makes an appointment with a counselor. I liked how we were shown what happened to Brooke and Asher to cause their PTSD.
As Brooke is running for her life, she is trying to figure out who is after her. Asher is doing everything in his power to protect her. They discover that a traitor is after them and it stems from the time they were in Afghanistan.
I highly recommend this book to all who like suspense.
I was given this book by Revell Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way..
Collateral Damage is an intense start to Eason’s new Danger Never Sleeps series. Numerous twists and turns kept me glued to the page. Brooke and Asher are strong characters both reeling from trauma sustained in Afghanistan while serving in the US Army.
I enjoyed getting to know the backstory of each and watching how they navigated murky waters when dealing with PTSD. I felt like I gained a bit of perspective and compassion for our current and past military members.
Eason delves into a deep and dark stratum of society that completely took me by surprise. I was saddened and disturbed that some of the ‘enemies’ would be among those we normally think of as heroes. That left me slightly disheartened (as it should) but I did find the story mesmerizing.
I recommend this book to fans of romantic suspense because watching Brooke and Asher’s relationship develop was endearing, and Eason’s criminals are chilling.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
This book was amazing I really had a hard time putting it down. The author deals with some tragic situations. I honestly feel like the situations in this book could be totally be pulled from the headlines. I loved Brooke and her friends they all seemed to have a heart for others no matter what they are facing. I loved how Brooke was able to face some of her fears and keep fighting for what was right. I liked Asher, while sometimes it seemed more that Brooke was saving him, he always seemed to have everyones best interest at heart. Now can we please talk about Lyric she was my favorite her and Sarah need to be friends and have there stories told, they both this take no prisoner attitude in them and will stop at nothing. I liked that this book was a good clean read and that even thought there were tough subjects the author kept you going from beginning to end. I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a review and have given my honest opinion