Lethal Target (The Line of Duty) Paperback – October 9, 2018

Lethal TargetLine of Duty #2By Janice CantoreTess O'Rourke thought the past of Long Beach was behind her now that she has become a part of the community of Rogue's Hollow. The police department is facing a new crisis with the death of an 18-year-old young man that appears to have been due to a drug overdose. But when the evidence doesn't prove conclusive Tess is left with more questions than answers. Is it related to the new pot farms setting up around the area or is it something more sinister? Especially when the bane of her existence in Long Beach shows up ready to start a new smear campaign against her in Rogue's Hollow.Tess has definitely crossed someone and once again her career is on the line but she's not about to back down and fade into the shadows when she has a job to do. And she does have a job to do when an unexplained death and potential missing persons on her watch. What Tess doesn't know is just how large a target she has on her back and whether she'll survive the threats that seem to be surrounding her.Through it all, those who know and believe in her stand firm in their support. But with a contention ballot measure and the mayor's race just days away, Rogue's Hollow may soon erupt under the building tension. And Tess is under her own personal turmoil as the anniversary of her father's death comes around yet again - can she let go of the anger and allow her heart to heal? Or will her anger end her friendship with Pastor Oliver Macpherson, who seemingly overcame his own personal loss? Only time will tell and it is quickly running down.This is the second book in the Line of Duty series and it takes place a few months after the events of Crisis Shot with Tess well-situated in her new home. Her relationship with Sergeant Steve Logan has come and gone in the time between, her choice. Tess's determination and drive make her a compelling character. And then there is Oliver who through his interactions is a caring person who tries to help others see that all sin is sin and all are guilty but redemption is possible and it is never too late to change. Rogue's Hollow is like many smaller communities with issues that seem larger than they truly need to be just because everyone knows everyone and it becomes more personal. Altogether a well-written and engaging book that is perfect for a long chilly weekend.

Readers return to the small Oregon town of Rogue’s Hollow in Lethal Target, the second book in Janice Cantore’s Line of Duty series. This time Tess O’Rourke investigates the murder of a favorite high school student with no enemies. The crime is especially puzzling and the family is vocal about Tess’s lack of skills in bringing the perpetrator to justice. Add extra layers of drug raids, legal pot farms, and a journalist’s vendetta, and you have a suspense-filled drama that keeps the pages turning. This novel gets a recommended rating from me.Rogue’s Hollow is a fictional town, but Cantore’s description of setting and citizens truly bring it to life. The author brings back characters from book 1, Crisis Shot, including this reader’s favorite, Oliver Macpherson, the local pastor whose wife was murdered in the previous novel. Tess is faced with a number of problems and obstacles in her investigation, as well as danger and threats, both physical and emotional. For such a small town, Tess finds herself in a pressure cooker that could undo her. I liked that Cantore explores the emotional side of her characters as they struggle with choices and doubts. Spiritual issues are at the heart of this book as well. Short chapters keep the novel fast-paced, and I really enjoyed the clues shared with the reader before Tess discovers them. That certainly amped up anticipation. I also found the community debate over legal pot farms interesting. Lethal Target is my book club’s selection this month, and I anticipate a lively discussion of how people deal with the legalization that many find immoral or a danger to society as a whole. Marijuana is not legal in my state, but it certainly could be in the future.If you like the suspense genre, then Lethal Target is an excellent choice. Great characters, wonderful setting, relevant issues, and spiritual truths make this an outstanding novel.Recommended.Audience: adults.)

The writer has that way with words that lets you get lost in the story. Lots of twists and turns. Very good read!

I enjoyed reading this series. I read the second one last, my mistake. Tess learning how to trust God was very well done. Oliver, "Faith is something solid--it's a confident assurance You are innocent: believe that the truth will prove that fact". Kind of sums up the story. I liked that the romance did not overtake the suspense and mystery. I buy for my church library and try to find books for men who do not like a lot of romance. It is hard to find in Christian Books. Janice Cantore is one of my favorite authors. I recommend this book to everyone.

Another great book in this series. Such strong characters in battle between good and evil. Faith is important to one of the main characters and his journey is a good reminder of how Father God works. Highly recommend!

Another good read. This book continues the story of Chief Tess and the Rogue River Police Department. Again there are lots of twists and turns and keeps you guessing on how this book will turn out. There is a little more spiritual content in this book, but not preachy. The spiritual struggles of the Chief and one criminal were complex but realistic.

Great story and filled with suspense. Great characters and the faith message brought into each story. Can't wait to read the next book in this series.

I absolutely love this writer. She keeps you on your toes and trying to figure out the plot. I love the way faith and trust in God are implanted in the stories. I want to read all of her books!