What do you think?
Rate this book
Guardians of Justice #3
Lethal Legacy
The police say her father's death was suicide. But Kelly Warren says it was murder--and she has new evidence that she believes proves it. Detective Cole Taylor doesn't put much credence in her claim, and nothing in his case review suggests foul play. But when Kelly ends up in the emergency room with a suspicious life-threatening medical condition, the incident strikes him as more than just coincidence. Digging deeper, he discovers she's linked to a long-ago crime. Is history repeating itself? And who wants Kelly silenced?
With her trademark high-intensity action and taut suspense, Irene Hannon closes out her Guardians of Justice series with a story of old grudges and budding romance that is sure to increase her substantial fan base.
With her trademark high-intensity action and taut suspense, Irene Hannon closes out her Guardians of Justice series with a story of old grudges and budding romance that is sure to increase her substantial fan base.
Audible Audio
First published January 1, 2012
253 people are currently reading
1503 people want to read
About the author
Irene Hannon
114 books2,941 followersIrene Hannon, who writes both contemporary romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 65 novels. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romance fiction) and she is a member of that organization's elite Hall of Fame. She has also received a Career Achievement award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Other awards for individual books include National Readers' Choice, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers' Best, and Reviewers' Choice from RT Book Reviews. She is also a two-time Christy award finalist.
Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.
A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.
Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.
A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews
May 20, 2018
I really enjoyed this conclusion to the Guardians of Justice series and felt like it's one of Hannon's best stories. Aside from feeling it was a stretch for the young woman to feel "safe" at a home where there had been an unsolved murder, there wasn't anything that pulled me out of the story. I also liked it that the bad guy wasn't as warped-creepy as some of them in her stories have been. It's more of a thriller, since you know who the bad guy is versus figuring it out along the way, but I definitely enjoyed the ride and liked both Cole and Kelly equally as MCs.
May 2, 2019
This one was definitely one of Hannon's best! I really enjoyed this conclusion to the series.
August 23, 2012
5 Stars! I ADORED this book - and series!
I am so sorry my time with the Taylor siblings has come to an end. Each of these books rated 5 stars with me. This last book, Lethal Legacy is about the middle Taylor sibling, Cole. Cole has been a present in each of his siblings’ stories and in this book we will finally see him find the woman he is meant to spend the rest of his life with and find out why he lost his faith.
Kelly’s father committed suicide; well that is at least what the police department determined. She is not convinced, even though her father was diagnosed with cancer he had determination to fight the disease – however the police determined he committed suicide by a combination of drugs, alcohol and carbon monoxide. Months later Kelly receives a shipment of tulip bulbs with an attached note dated the day before his death from her father stating he will help her plant these bulbs and enjoy the blooms with her in the Spring. Kelly is convinced it is proof he was murdered, who would send a note like that the day before killing yourself. She goes to police headquarters with the note, but the detective in charge of her father’s case is on vacation – so Cole Taylor is asked to speak with her.
Cole is not convinced the note is enough to open her father’s case again. But he does feel a connection with Kelly – however Cole is determined to keep his work life and personal life separate. Cole resolve is tested one day when is leaving the hospital after gathering information on a different case and he realizes Kelly is being brought into the emergency room for treatment for a life threatening allergic reaction. Is this an accident, or does someone want Kelly to stop digging for facts.
This is the third and last book in the Guardian’s of Justice series, it can be read as a stand alone book. However I recommend reading the other books in the series first for the greatest possible enjoyment. Each of the Taylor siblings and their significant others appear in this book, knowing their background stories enhance the scenes where they are all together. (for example there are references to Alison’s lack of talent for making coffee that are just funnier if you read her story) This book has suspense, a plot that twists and turns, some check-ins with previous characters and a glimpse on how Cole finds his faith again. I LOVE Irene Hannon’s romantic suspense and preordered this book, the date of release was on my calendar. The only thing I would do is add a Taylor cousin that Irene can write a book about so I can check in with the Taylor family again! Irene has a whole new series starting early 2013 and I will be preordering that title as soon as it is available.
I am so sorry my time with the Taylor siblings has come to an end. Each of these books rated 5 stars with me. This last book, Lethal Legacy is about the middle Taylor sibling, Cole. Cole has been a present in each of his siblings’ stories and in this book we will finally see him find the woman he is meant to spend the rest of his life with and find out why he lost his faith.
Kelly’s father committed suicide; well that is at least what the police department determined. She is not convinced, even though her father was diagnosed with cancer he had determination to fight the disease – however the police determined he committed suicide by a combination of drugs, alcohol and carbon monoxide. Months later Kelly receives a shipment of tulip bulbs with an attached note dated the day before his death from her father stating he will help her plant these bulbs and enjoy the blooms with her in the Spring. Kelly is convinced it is proof he was murdered, who would send a note like that the day before killing yourself. She goes to police headquarters with the note, but the detective in charge of her father’s case is on vacation – so Cole Taylor is asked to speak with her.
Cole is not convinced the note is enough to open her father’s case again. But he does feel a connection with Kelly – however Cole is determined to keep his work life and personal life separate. Cole resolve is tested one day when is leaving the hospital after gathering information on a different case and he realizes Kelly is being brought into the emergency room for treatment for a life threatening allergic reaction. Is this an accident, or does someone want Kelly to stop digging for facts.
This is the third and last book in the Guardian’s of Justice series, it can be read as a stand alone book. However I recommend reading the other books in the series first for the greatest possible enjoyment. Each of the Taylor siblings and their significant others appear in this book, knowing their background stories enhance the scenes where they are all together. (for example there are references to Alison’s lack of talent for making coffee that are just funnier if you read her story) This book has suspense, a plot that twists and turns, some check-ins with previous characters and a glimpse on how Cole finds his faith again. I LOVE Irene Hannon’s romantic suspense and preordered this book, the date of release was on my calendar. The only thing I would do is add a Taylor cousin that Irene can write a book about so I can check in with the Taylor family again! Irene has a whole new series starting early 2013 and I will be preordering that title as soon as it is available.
April 13, 2021
This series did not impress me at all.
It's sad, but I find Irene Hannon to be a pretty unoriginal writer. All three books in this series have included characters that to me sound like the same character. The only difference was that the heroines change a little.
Anyways, the girl gets kidnapped for every climax, the romances are the same, and the guy ends up being saved because the girl he likes witnessed to him. Now I would be okay with all of these things if they were in one book, but they were in all three. In my opinion these books are WAY too similar.
They are pretty clean, but boring. I don't recommend, but if you want to read they aren't inappropriate.
It's sad, but I find Irene Hannon to be a pretty unoriginal writer. All three books in this series have included characters that to me sound like the same character. The only difference was that the heroines change a little.
Anyways, the girl gets kidnapped for every climax, the romances are the same, and the guy ends up being saved because the girl he likes witnessed to him. Now I would be okay with all of these things if they were in one book, but they were in all three. In my opinion these books are WAY too similar.
They are pretty clean, but boring. I don't recommend, but if you want to read they aren't inappropriate.
November 3, 2015
Great conclusion to the series! This was my favorite of the three romantic suspense novels in the Guardians of Justice Series.
While the romance was good, it was the story line that grabbed my attention. I like the cold case stories. What also added to the novel was the character development of the villains.
I recommend Lethal Legacy and the entire series to readers of romantic suspense.
While the romance was good, it was the story line that grabbed my attention. I like the cold case stories. What also added to the novel was the character development of the villains.
I recommend Lethal Legacy and the entire series to readers of romantic suspense.
July 19, 2023
Lethal Legacy is the third book that concludes the Guardian of Justice series. I was ENTHRALLED with it! It is the best one ( and all of them were excellent)! Even though it is a series, it can be a stand alone. The author has great writing craft to be able to merge the characters of previous books without being redundant.
One can tell Ms. Hannon has done intensive research. There is authenticity in her writing about police procedurals. The plot is fast paced, the characters endearing, and the storyline unique. The mystery builds throughout as does the suspense. The reveal of the antagonist is revealed at the 75% mark, and it was a shocking surprise, yet plausible. I appreciate how I didn’t have to suspend my disbelief - another excellent example of Ms. Hannon’s writing craft.
Although the reveal was made, the rest of the book ratcheted up the suspense intensely, concluding with a thrilling and chilling climax and a more than satisfying denouement!
Ms. Hannon is known to write Christian literature. Her writing equals other well known suspenseful crime writers, but she writes without gore, immorality or profanity.
I’m so glad she is such a prolific writer as I will have plenty of her books to devour in the future! I highly recommend The Guardians of Justice series!
One can tell Ms. Hannon has done intensive research. There is authenticity in her writing about police procedurals. The plot is fast paced, the characters endearing, and the storyline unique. The mystery builds throughout as does the suspense. The reveal of the antagonist is revealed at the 75% mark, and it was a shocking surprise, yet plausible. I appreciate how I didn’t have to suspend my disbelief - another excellent example of Ms. Hannon’s writing craft.
Although the reveal was made, the rest of the book ratcheted up the suspense intensely, concluding with a thrilling and chilling climax and a more than satisfying denouement!
Ms. Hannon is known to write Christian literature. Her writing equals other well known suspenseful crime writers, but she writes without gore, immorality or profanity.
I’m so glad she is such a prolific writer as I will have plenty of her books to devour in the future! I highly recommend The Guardians of Justice series!
March 23, 2013
It wasn’t that big a deal. Just a mug of white chocolate mocha at her new favorite coffee shop, The Perfect Blend. So how did she end up in the emergency room?
Lethal Legacy by Irene Hannon tells the suspenseful story of Kelly Warren and her pursuit of truth and justice for her late-father’s honor.
I confess, I felt it started out a little slow. A prologue about the vengeance of a released convict and a couple of chapters of set-up revealed the true plot, the mystery side of it at least, but gave me no fear or reason to press through the reading. I put the book down at the end of chapter 2 and didn’t pick it back up again for a couple of months.
Word to the Wise – DON’T stop reading at chapter 2. Halfway through Chapter 3, things start hopping and they don’t stop from there to the end. This became a thrilling story. I especially enjoyed the interplay between the main characters. Great characters arcs for the two as well.
Like romance and suspense served together? You will love Lethal Legacy!
Lethal Legacy by Irene Hannon tells the suspenseful story of Kelly Warren and her pursuit of truth and justice for her late-father’s honor.
I confess, I felt it started out a little slow. A prologue about the vengeance of a released convict and a couple of chapters of set-up revealed the true plot, the mystery side of it at least, but gave me no fear or reason to press through the reading. I put the book down at the end of chapter 2 and didn’t pick it back up again for a couple of months.
Word to the Wise – DON’T stop reading at chapter 2. Halfway through Chapter 3, things start hopping and they don’t stop from there to the end. This became a thrilling story. I especially enjoyed the interplay between the main characters. Great characters arcs for the two as well.
Like romance and suspense served together? You will love Lethal Legacy!
December 31, 2015
I just love the way the Taylor family interacts and are there for each other and the people the Taylor clan cares about.
The plot of Kelly's father's suicide and Kelly believing that it was murder and searching for answers was delivered well. The suspense was good. The most suspenseful part for me was at the 80% mark, but the perpetrator was revealed early on and his plans with Kelly was a bit predictable. I also suspected who the killer was before it was revealed. Some of the things the killer did was brutal and you can't believe someone can be like that, but it added to his crazy killer mental state.
The romance at the end was a bit to cheesy for me, but the relationship between Kelly and Cole was realistic and cute to watch. Some would think the romance build to quickly, but for me it felt realistic, they were both in their 30's so more mature and know what they want and not playing games.
Sad to say goodbye to the Taylor family, I enjoyed getting to know them.
Still it was a great suspense and recommended for all suspense fans.
The plot of Kelly's father's suicide and Kelly believing that it was murder and searching for answers was delivered well. The suspense was good. The most suspenseful part for me was at the 80% mark, but the perpetrator was revealed early on and his plans with Kelly was a bit predictable. I also suspected who the killer was before it was revealed. Some of the things the killer did was brutal and you can't believe someone can be like that, but it added to his crazy killer mental state.
The romance at the end was a bit to cheesy for me, but the relationship between Kelly and Cole was realistic and cute to watch. Some would think the romance build to quickly, but for me it felt realistic, they were both in their 30's so more mature and know what they want and not playing games.
Sad to say goodbye to the Taylor family, I enjoyed getting to know them.
Still it was a great suspense and recommended for all suspense fans.
November 24, 2018
A really good book. The characters are engaging, and the plot is involved but delivered with clarity. Very interesting.
I have not read the other books in the series but I may. I’m not compelled to read them, which makes me question my five-star rating. Let’s call it a 4.5.
One caveat I must give here is that the book includes shallow relationships between some of the characters and God — the kind of faith where you use God like a lucky rabbit’s foot in hopes He’ll remove you from unpleasant situations.
Since quite a few people have a shallow relationship with the Divine, it’s potentially a realistic aspect of a character. What I found off-putting was that I think the author intended to describe these as meaningful connections, otherwise this aspect of those characters served no purpose to the story. The references to God didn’t flow with the story, they were forced and artificial, as were the romantic scenes.
I was truly disappointed in that aspect of the book. The characters would have been more interesting if their spiritual life had some depth.
I have not read the other books in the series but I may. I’m not compelled to read them, which makes me question my five-star rating. Let’s call it a 4.5.
One caveat I must give here is that the book includes shallow relationships between some of the characters and God — the kind of faith where you use God like a lucky rabbit’s foot in hopes He’ll remove you from unpleasant situations.
Since quite a few people have a shallow relationship with the Divine, it’s potentially a realistic aspect of a character. What I found off-putting was that I think the author intended to describe these as meaningful connections, otherwise this aspect of those characters served no purpose to the story. The references to God didn’t flow with the story, they were forced and artificial, as were the romantic scenes.
I was truly disappointed in that aspect of the book. The characters would have been more interesting if their spiritual life had some depth.
July 27, 2018
Loved it! This was my favorite book in this series by far. Sweet romance mixed into a page turning suspense with a few surprises. From the very start, I was intrigued by Kelly’s determination to prove her father’s death was not suicide. Full review at my website.
November 26, 2024
I truly enjoyed this book. Ms. Hannon does a wonderful job. I like that her writing style allows time for you to understand that what happens in the story doesn't happen in the matter of just a few days. It seems so real.
May 9, 2025
Cole and Kelly’s story.
February 19, 2023
Another excellent romance/crime story from Irene Hannon. I love how that so often in her books, the bad guy is his own undoing.
August 5, 2012
To be posted on my blog 8/9: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
My review on Amazon - if it is helpful, please click "Yes" on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2XFF82N...
Lethal Legacy, the third and last book in Irene Hannon's Guardian of Justice series, is probably my least favorite in the series. While I did really enjoy it, I loved the first two.
I loved the characters and found the story interesting, it is just that, at times, I found the suspense lacking (probably because the killer is known early on) and that is really the only thing I didn't like.
It was nice getting to know Cole more and see what has been happening in the Taylor household - I have to say, it was a little sad to say goodbye to these characters. I'm hoping they might make an appearance in Irene's next series, Private Justice. Book one, Vanished, is set to release January 2013! :)
I found Lethal Legacy very easy to read and loved that there was an epilogue - that is something I love novels to have.
Overall, Lethal Legacy was a good romantic suspense read that I really enjoyed. I recommend reading the first two books in this series first, though, otherwise some things will be spoiled.
*I received this book for free for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
“Available August 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
My review on Amazon - if it is helpful, please click "Yes" on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2XFF82N...
Lethal Legacy, the third and last book in Irene Hannon's Guardian of Justice series, is probably my least favorite in the series. While I did really enjoy it, I loved the first two.
I loved the characters and found the story interesting, it is just that, at times, I found the suspense lacking (probably because the killer is known early on) and that is really the only thing I didn't like.
It was nice getting to know Cole more and see what has been happening in the Taylor household - I have to say, it was a little sad to say goodbye to these characters. I'm hoping they might make an appearance in Irene's next series, Private Justice. Book one, Vanished, is set to release January 2013! :)
I found Lethal Legacy very easy to read and loved that there was an epilogue - that is something I love novels to have.
Overall, Lethal Legacy was a good romantic suspense read that I really enjoyed. I recommend reading the first two books in this series first, though, otherwise some things will be spoiled.
*I received this book for free for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
“Available August 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
August 14, 2012
First posted on my blog, Legacy of a Writer.
Irene Hannon brings her Guardians of Justice series to a romantic and suspenseful ending with Lethal Legacy. Each one of the books in the series has been awesome—though, personally, Deadly Pursuit tops them all for me! All of the books I’ve read by Hannon have an intense, pulse-pounding and thrilling adventure that is sure to make stay awake late into the night!
From the previous books featuring Jake and Allison, I’d already gotten to know their brother Cole a little bit and was intrigued by him. Needless to say, I was thrilled when Lethal Legacy came out and gave Cole the spotlight. I highly recommend you read this series in order, since the series is more of a continual story of the three Taylor children.
I liked Kelly—thought she was perfect for Cole. And her love and devotion to her father was admirable. The mystery surrounding his death made for a great suspense. And while I was surprised to find out the identity of the killer so quickly, it didn’t diminish the suspense of the book. I totally and thoroughly enjoyed it!
That last part of Lethal Legacy was intense and impossible to put down. What a wild ride! It’s kinda sad that the series is over—I so enjoyed meeting the Taylor trio and listening to them banter back and forth. But I look forward to what Irene Hannon will bring us next in her new, upcoming series!
Irene Hannon brings her Guardians of Justice series to a romantic and suspenseful ending with Lethal Legacy. Each one of the books in the series has been awesome—though, personally, Deadly Pursuit tops them all for me! All of the books I’ve read by Hannon have an intense, pulse-pounding and thrilling adventure that is sure to make stay awake late into the night!
From the previous books featuring Jake and Allison, I’d already gotten to know their brother Cole a little bit and was intrigued by him. Needless to say, I was thrilled when Lethal Legacy came out and gave Cole the spotlight. I highly recommend you read this series in order, since the series is more of a continual story of the three Taylor children.
I liked Kelly—thought she was perfect for Cole. And her love and devotion to her father was admirable. The mystery surrounding his death made for a great suspense. And while I was surprised to find out the identity of the killer so quickly, it didn’t diminish the suspense of the book. I totally and thoroughly enjoyed it!
That last part of Lethal Legacy was intense and impossible to put down. What a wild ride! It’s kinda sad that the series is over—I so enjoyed meeting the Taylor trio and listening to them banter back and forth. But I look forward to what Irene Hannon will bring us next in her new, upcoming series!
January 1, 2016
SUMMARY: A determined daughter . . .
A skeptical detective . . .
A deadly secret . . .
The police say her father's death was suicide. Kelly Warren says it was murder--and she has new evidence to prove it. Detective Cole Taylor doesn't put much credence in her claim, and nothing in his case review suggests foul play. But when he digs deeper (delete dash) and discovers startling information linking her to a long-buried secret, the danger escalates. Is history repeating itself? And who wants Kelly silenced?
REVIEW: This is the final book in Hannon's Guardian of Justice Series. Once again Hannon has written a spine-tingling, page turning thriller that keeps your attention from start to finish. The book once again ties in to the Taylor family who are involved in one form or another of the justice system. I loved the connections between the two brothers and their sister: their bantering, their support and their loyalty to one another.
The storyline is intense and both Cole and Kelly are strong characters who take their relationship slowly and understand boundaries when a relationship other than personal is involved. The last part of the book definitely is intense and this is definitely not a "cozy mystery." For those of you who do not like violence, this may be a put-off for you. I also found that the Christian theme did not seem as strong in this book as the two previous in this series. But overall a good read and excellent series.
A skeptical detective . . .
A deadly secret . . .
The police say her father's death was suicide. Kelly Warren says it was murder--and she has new evidence to prove it. Detective Cole Taylor doesn't put much credence in her claim, and nothing in his case review suggests foul play. But when he digs deeper (delete dash) and discovers startling information linking her to a long-buried secret, the danger escalates. Is history repeating itself? And who wants Kelly silenced?
REVIEW: This is the final book in Hannon's Guardian of Justice Series. Once again Hannon has written a spine-tingling, page turning thriller that keeps your attention from start to finish. The book once again ties in to the Taylor family who are involved in one form or another of the justice system. I loved the connections between the two brothers and their sister: their bantering, their support and their loyalty to one another.
The storyline is intense and both Cole and Kelly are strong characters who take their relationship slowly and understand boundaries when a relationship other than personal is involved. The last part of the book definitely is intense and this is definitely not a "cozy mystery." For those of you who do not like violence, this may be a put-off for you. I also found that the Christian theme did not seem as strong in this book as the two previous in this series. But overall a good read and excellent series.
March 12, 2013
Irene Hannon is amazing. She is quickly becoming my favorite Christian Romantic Suspense author, and the latest book about the Taylor siblings only adds to the reasons why.
When Kelly's father commits suicide, she can't believe it, especially when she receives a birthday gift he bought for her the day before he died. Determined to make the police open up the case, she finds Cole and begs him to look into it. All evidence points to a suicide until Kelly is attacked. Now the two have to work together to prove her father's death was murder and keep Kelly safe.
As with the previous two books, Lethal Legacy is fast-paced and intense in the storyline. Although the killer is predicted early on and revealed halfway through the book, it's still a fun ride seeing how it all comes together. The characters are strong and likeable, and it's fun to see the characters from the previous books in many scenes.
Fans of Dee Henderson and romantic suspense in general will love this book (and the whole series).
When Kelly's father commits suicide, she can't believe it, especially when she receives a birthday gift he bought for her the day before he died. Determined to make the police open up the case, she finds Cole and begs him to look into it. All evidence points to a suicide until Kelly is attacked. Now the two have to work together to prove her father's death was murder and keep Kelly safe.
As with the previous two books, Lethal Legacy is fast-paced and intense in the storyline. Although the killer is predicted early on and revealed halfway through the book, it's still a fun ride seeing how it all comes together. The characters are strong and likeable, and it's fun to see the characters from the previous books in many scenes.
Fans of Dee Henderson and romantic suspense in general will love this book (and the whole series).
December 4, 2015
I have enjoyed the twists and turn of this book. You never know when being in the right place at the right time is all that is needed to get things done. Kelly and Cole's story has excitement in every page of this story.
March 16, 2015
I have enjoyed all of the books in this series. they all follow the same formula but with different characters and different circumstances. All really interesting. I will probably just write ditto on the rest of her books that are similar.
April 6, 2023
The best book out of the trilogy but nothing amazing. Wouldn’t read again but a light read when you need a break
March 28, 2021
I've read other books by this author and liked them well enough to put her earlier works on my TBR list. This is one of those books. It's also the conclusion to the Guardians of Justice series which features the Taylor family.
WARNING: REMAINDER OF REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS. READ ON AT YOUR OWN DISCRETION:
****
It's hard for me to believe that someone sworn to uphold the law would go over to the dark side. It does seem as if the author made a believable past for him though that explained how he could perform certain tasks so well, as well as creating a reasonable explanation (gambling debts to pay off and wanting to win his ex back) as to why he would consider doing it. I guess the gambling debt payoff would be a big draw--and of course, being able to put money back into an account (not sure if it was the trust account or a separate account) that he'd taken from his now ex I'm sure was done with an eye to getting her back (even though she doesn't seem interested).
Likes:
The Taylor Family--their interactions seem like real siblings to me. Yes, they get on each other's nerves, but in the end, you know you can count on them to have each other's backs. They also are secure enough in their relationships to allow others to enter into the circle.
Mark Rossi's desire to move beyond his family's legacy and inheritance. His willingness to make tough choices to protect his son.
Dislikes:
As is my complaint with most books in this genre, the main characters really don't know each other for very long before they end up engaged--6 months or so, perhaps?--to me, that's not really long enough to truly know the other person "for better or for worse". My main concern is that readers who take in a steady diet of these types of books will begin to think that real life imitates fiction and end up involved with someone they shouldn't after only a short time because they think the "happily ever after" scenario extends to real life. (Don't get me wrong, I know that theme is what is expected in books like these, I just wish that it wasn't so fairy-tale-ish and sometimes warned people of what can happen in real life if one rushes the getting to know each other process.
The senior Rossi not being able to move beyond his past--not that he really had much incentive to do that--I don't think even if he had that his son would have wanted a relationship with him--though his actions against Walsh are definitely ones that slam the door to any potential relationship with Mark and Mark's family. I wonder if he had been able to leave Walsh alone or if it hadn't been connected back to him, if Mark might have eventually opened the door just a little toward allowing his father to act the part of grandfather to Jason.
WARNING: REMAINDER OF REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS. READ ON AT YOUR OWN DISCRETION:
****
It's hard for me to believe that someone sworn to uphold the law would go over to the dark side. It does seem as if the author made a believable past for him though that explained how he could perform certain tasks so well, as well as creating a reasonable explanation (gambling debts to pay off and wanting to win his ex back) as to why he would consider doing it. I guess the gambling debt payoff would be a big draw--and of course, being able to put money back into an account (not sure if it was the trust account or a separate account) that he'd taken from his now ex I'm sure was done with an eye to getting her back (even though she doesn't seem interested).
Likes:
The Taylor Family--their interactions seem like real siblings to me. Yes, they get on each other's nerves, but in the end, you know you can count on them to have each other's backs. They also are secure enough in their relationships to allow others to enter into the circle.
Mark Rossi's desire to move beyond his family's legacy and inheritance. His willingness to make tough choices to protect his son.
Dislikes:
As is my complaint with most books in this genre, the main characters really don't know each other for very long before they end up engaged--6 months or so, perhaps?--to me, that's not really long enough to truly know the other person "for better or for worse". My main concern is that readers who take in a steady diet of these types of books will begin to think that real life imitates fiction and end up involved with someone they shouldn't after only a short time because they think the "happily ever after" scenario extends to real life. (Don't get me wrong, I know that theme is what is expected in books like these, I just wish that it wasn't so fairy-tale-ish and sometimes warned people of what can happen in real life if one rushes the getting to know each other process.
The senior Rossi not being able to move beyond his past--not that he really had much incentive to do that--I don't think even if he had that his son would have wanted a relationship with him--though his actions against Walsh are definitely ones that slam the door to any potential relationship with Mark and Mark's family. I wonder if he had been able to leave Walsh alone or if it hadn't been connected back to him, if Mark might have eventually opened the door just a little toward allowing his father to act the part of grandfather to Jason.
February 19, 2021
FINALLY I'm done! Took me a bit longer than planned but I'm just happy to be done with it. Not that I wasn't liking it, at some point the Libby kindle library book had to be returned since someone had put a hold on the book and so I had to wait a bit longer to pick it back up and all, but when I did get it back, I tried to get through it fast as I could; and then my mood reader side kicked in and got distracted by other books hahaha. But I'm just glad I'm done.
Anyway, I'm honestly a little bit sad to leave the Taylor siblings and one I'll definitely remember since the first book of this trilogy Fatal Judgment with Jake Taylor's story was the very first book for me to decided and try out a new genre I never thought I'd find myself finding to read and surprisingly enjoying: Christian Romance. It was actually a nice refresher from other stuff I read, but I'll always remember how lucky I felt when picking up a good first book to try a "new" genre and to get out of my comfort zone and boy am I glad because this trilogy was well written, but if I had to choose my favorite Taylor story, I liked Allison's more (plus Mitch Morgan was freaking adorable ;) and a former Navy SEAL now detective? What more could you get?)
Though I did love Jake Taylor, this third book I absolutely loved Cole even more since he was pretty much the first character we may as well have met in Jake's story at the very beginning, and then throughout Allison's book Cole just kept getting more and more adorable and by the time his story fell around and I learned about his past, my heart broke like crazy and totally felt for him. And his meeting Kelly Warren was the best thing for Cole Taylor. So I'm glad he met her because they both truly do compliment one another. I don't know much of what to say anymore except now I'm having a typical "now what" moment after this trilogy is over and I was so invested in the Taylor siblings' stories. Though I wished we saw weddings for Allison/Mitch and Cole/Kelly, but the ending was satisfying enough for this trilogy.
If you're one who likes this kind of genre and need or looking for a good clean fun trilogy or book, read these books. I'd totally highly recommend them though these were on the little suspense side as well, but so good!
Anyway, I'm honestly a little bit sad to leave the Taylor siblings and one I'll definitely remember since the first book of this trilogy Fatal Judgment with Jake Taylor's story was the very first book for me to decided and try out a new genre I never thought I'd find myself finding to read and surprisingly enjoying: Christian Romance. It was actually a nice refresher from other stuff I read, but I'll always remember how lucky I felt when picking up a good first book to try a "new" genre and to get out of my comfort zone and boy am I glad because this trilogy was well written, but if I had to choose my favorite Taylor story, I liked Allison's more (plus Mitch Morgan was freaking adorable ;) and a former Navy SEAL now detective? What more could you get?)
Though I did love Jake Taylor, this third book I absolutely loved Cole even more since he was pretty much the first character we may as well have met in Jake's story at the very beginning, and then throughout Allison's book Cole just kept getting more and more adorable and by the time his story fell around and I learned about his past, my heart broke like crazy and totally felt for him. And his meeting Kelly Warren was the best thing for Cole Taylor. So I'm glad he met her because they both truly do compliment one another. I don't know much of what to say anymore except now I'm having a typical "now what" moment after this trilogy is over and I was so invested in the Taylor siblings' stories. Though I wished we saw weddings for Allison/Mitch and Cole/Kelly, but the ending was satisfying enough for this trilogy.
If you're one who likes this kind of genre and need or looking for a good clean fun trilogy or book, read these books. I'd totally highly recommend them though these were on the little suspense side as well, but so good!
June 5, 2019
The third book in the Guardians of Justice Series is the third Taylor sibling.
Cole Taylor has been all work oriented in the previous books. He also has fallen away from church. Something happened, even Alison commented that at one point he was the most religious of the siblings.
Cole and his partner, and soon to be brother-in-law Mitch take a complaint from Kelly Warren requesting her father’s case of suicide be reopened because she has proof he was murdered. The case is closed and another detective handled the case. However Detective Carlson is out of town so Cole listens to Kelly’s concerns. Slowly Cole looks into this and things are a bit off. Keeping his fingers still in along w Detective Carlson an attraction starts for Kelly and Cole.
One review mentioned too much romance. ??? Cole does admit he hit a low point, was frustrated in life and was a bit of a player. As soon as Cole admits he feels something for Kelly he tells her solving this takes priority over getting involved. He finally kisses her 2 pages from the last chapter before the Epilogue.
I will admit I feel the second book was the best in this series. Kelly is on her way to spinster-hood she moves so slowly. All three of these books emphasize that each person wants a person of faith before they start a relationship. I feel that is admirable because sometimes relationships can start over just a physical connection. Hard not to enjoy an Irene Hanson book.
Cole Taylor has been all work oriented in the previous books. He also has fallen away from church. Something happened, even Alison commented that at one point he was the most religious of the siblings.
Cole and his partner, and soon to be brother-in-law Mitch take a complaint from Kelly Warren requesting her father’s case of suicide be reopened because she has proof he was murdered. The case is closed and another detective handled the case. However Detective Carlson is out of town so Cole listens to Kelly’s concerns. Slowly Cole looks into this and things are a bit off. Keeping his fingers still in along w Detective Carlson an attraction starts for Kelly and Cole.
One review mentioned too much romance. ??? Cole does admit he hit a low point, was frustrated in life and was a bit of a player. As soon as Cole admits he feels something for Kelly he tells her solving this takes priority over getting involved. He finally kisses her 2 pages from the last chapter before the Epilogue.
I will admit I feel the second book was the best in this series. Kelly is on her way to spinster-hood she moves so slowly. All three of these books emphasize that each person wants a person of faith before they start a relationship. I feel that is admirable because sometimes relationships can start over just a physical connection. Hard not to enjoy an Irene Hanson book.
August 11, 2017
This book caught my interest right away, Kelly’s father’s died and it was determined to be a suicide by the police investigator. His daughter Kelly wasn’t buying the story and was more determine to search for more evidence when she received a flower gift from her father where he said they would enjoy planting them together.
She went to talk with the detective who investigated his death, good thing he wasn’t available and another person Cole Taylor is asked to talk with her. Although he was convinced with the final decision he agreed to check again which may have been attraction to this lovely woman. He was force to seriously reconsider the case when Kelly was brought into the emergency room with an allergic reaction. It was a place she frequent which didn’t serve any of the items of which she was allergic.
The twist and turns of this investigation revealed a person one would not have imagined the end of the story especially with her father being in what would be called “Witness Protection Program”. This was truly a page turner.
She went to talk with the detective who investigated his death, good thing he wasn’t available and another person Cole Taylor is asked to talk with her. Although he was convinced with the final decision he agreed to check again which may have been attraction to this lovely woman. He was force to seriously reconsider the case when Kelly was brought into the emergency room with an allergic reaction. It was a place she frequent which didn’t serve any of the items of which she was allergic.
The twist and turns of this investigation revealed a person one would not have imagined the end of the story especially with her father being in what would be called “Witness Protection Program”. This was truly a page turner.
August 31, 2017
Kelly Warren is determined to prove that her father did not commit suicide but was murdered. She shows Detective Cole Taylor a receipt for tulip bulbs with a note from her father indicating he would be there to help her plant the bulbs. It was dated the day before his supposedly suicide. This seems strange to Cole too but not enough evidence to reopen the case. When Kelly searches her father’s house, she finds a wedding photo of her parents but the names on the back of the photo are not those used by her parents. Cole is wondering if her father was in Witness Protection and if so, the investigation could get a lot more dangerous.
It did and an old Mafia don was involved. But her father's murderer almost became her own and it was someone least expected.
Great story as the love between Kelly and Cole grew.
It did and an old Mafia don was involved. But her father's murderer almost became her own and it was someone least expected.
Great story as the love between Kelly and Cole grew.
June 22, 2018
The final Taylor sibling - Detective Cole Taylor. A woman comes in bearing evidence that she thinks warrants reopening her father's suicide case. With the officer who originally had the case away on vacation, Cole talks to her. He promises to take another look, mostly to placate her. But upon review, there are a few oddities that stand out.
Kelly Warren doesn't believe for a moment that her father committed suicide. That's not like him at all. Detective Taylor isn't in agreement, but at least he's taking another look.
The things that Cole finds in the original investigation have him digging deeper and encouraging Kelly to search through her father's house. The more they dig into the case, the stranger the things that happen and that they find.
Mitch got a little bit of page time in helping Cole. The way family, and almost family, comes together is nice. Any Blimey Cow fans reading this? You know what I'm talking about :)
Kelly Warren doesn't believe for a moment that her father committed suicide. That's not like him at all. Detective Taylor isn't in agreement, but at least he's taking another look.
The things that Cole finds in the original investigation have him digging deeper and encouraging Kelly to search through her father's house. The more they dig into the case, the stranger the things that happen and that they find.
Mitch got a little bit of page time in helping Cole. The way family, and almost family, comes together is nice. Any Blimey Cow fans reading this? You know what I'm talking about :)
November 21, 2019
Loved this series - great author. She kept the suspense going throughout the book. When Kelly is abducted by the detective while Cole is out-of-town, you wondered how he was ever going to get back and find the clues to lead him to find her. When she is thrown over the ledge in the park, that was tragic. When Cole and Mitch eventually find her, it is so sweet how Cole takes care of her without moving her because he doesn't know how bad she is injured. It's great how all Cole's family rally's around him to lend support. The dirty cop gets what he deserves in the end - murdered by the hit man. Course Rossi who had ordered the hit got his just reward to by dying of a heart attack. A "happily ever after" ending as Cole proposes to Kelly. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2021
I didn’t realize this was part of a series of books but it is a freestanding story so I don’t feel it would change my review. I was not a big fan of this book. This felt more like a a Hallmark movie than a real murder mystery. Don’t get me wrong I love a good romance novel and I’m not even a big fan of graphic murder mysteries. The problem I had with this book was all the cliché phrases and the instant love between Kelly and Cole, it felt like a book I could write and not something done by a published author. This is the first book I’ve read of Irene Hannon but based on this book I don’t think I will choose to read another.
August 3, 2025
Closer to a 4.5, but as always, I rounded up. This was the first time I have read from this author. I ended up quite enjoying it. I thought the plot's twistiness was well done and kept my interest. The main characters, Kelly and Cole, were interesting as individuals and had good chemistry together. I thought the author did a good job of ramping up the tension as the book went on until the thrilling conclusion. My one quibble would be that both protagonists had friends and relatives who kept pushing them to get into a relationship, and after a while, it became kind of annoying. Other than that, I really enjoyed the book and can't wait to read more by the author.
May 10, 2020
I really enjoyed this story. If first it seems like no mystery at all just a very sad suicide but a gift of tulips arrives with a note written the day before Kelly's father's death. Other suspicious things have been happening and police detective, Cole, starts to ask questions.
I really enjoy how well the author gives you the perspective of the heros and the villains in this story. I was able to figure out quickly who the killer was but it didn't hinder my enjoyment of the story. The last 150 pages I just couldn't put it down.
I really enjoy how well the author gives you the perspective of the heros and the villains in this story. I was able to figure out quickly who the killer was but it didn't hinder my enjoyment of the story. The last 150 pages I just couldn't put it down.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews