After growing up in foster care, investigative reporter Naya Michél has learned there’s usually more to a situation than meets the eye. When she’s assigned a story about the current water contamination crisis in town, Naya is ready to show her boss she has what it takes to secure a promotion—especially since the events surrounding the story have personal ties to her childhood. When her investigation makes her the target of someone who wants the truth kept quiet, how far will Naya’s determination take her before the cost becomes too much?
Rescue Squad firefighter and former foster kid Zack Stephens is ready to step up his game at work when his boss hands him a cold case for hazmat training. As Zack delves into the case, he uncovers a shocking revelation—his parents’ deaths weren’t accidental. Determined to find their murderer, Zack throws himself into the investigation. But he doesn’t expect his search to collide with Naya, the girl he promised to protect when they lived in foster care together.
As threats mount and Naya is caught in the crosshairs, can Zack reconcile the mistakes of his past and find a killer before someone deals a lethal blow? And can the two of them learn to trust—and love—each other again despite the pain of their past?
Rescued Duty is a pulse-pounding tale of second chances, found family, and the unbreakable bonds forged in the face of adversity.
Lisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 80 books that span Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.
Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Lisa is a worship leader, tea aficionado, and dog lover of two crazy Airedales.
I love a good restoration/redemption story because I need to be constantly reminded to see the potential in others and in myself. So often I get caught up in my mistakes and allow past actions to hold me back. Stories such as Rescued Duty remind me that change is possible and we are all worthy of being better versions of ourselves.
Both Rescue Squad firefighter and former foster kid Zack Stephens and Haitian-born Naya Michél, reporter with the Last Chance Tribune, struggle with the betrayal of abandonment. It’s a beautiful thing to see that they have a support system in place to help them move forward. Authors Lisa Phillips and Laura Conaway invite readers to follow these vulnerable characters on their journey in search of answers and we have a front-row seat to their struggle for trust and emotional connection as the echos of their past betrayals threaten to derail them. They discover that sometimes the hardest truths are the ones closest to home and that in letting go and allowing someone the space to grow, they’ve learned to forgive and trust in themselves and in the people who stayed or in those who stayed connected from the sidelines. Vulnerability for these two makes them whole, not weak. I like that.
If you love second chances and found family stories with pulse-pounding action and intriguing mystery, this Christian romantic suspense is for you!
I’m heading back to Lisa Phillips’ backlist to catch up on books 1-3.
I was gifted this copy by Sunrise Publishing and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This was such a powerful story for me! The foster care angle was what drew me into the story. I loved how the author's weaved in the characters insecurities with the truth of Scripture. The resilience and strength of the characters was so admirable.
The suspense was strong throughout the story. The reader is eager to find out how the water is being contaminated and by whom.
The relationships between Naya and Ingram and Zack and Eddie were so special. They both had friends that were there for them and also held them accountable.
Thanks to Sunrise Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own!!
Rescued Duty by Lisa Phillips and Laura Conway return to the Last Chance Fire and Rescue Series. Phillips and Conway weave in the concepts and importance of family. Readers will enjoy the strong foster family units and influences woven through the story. However, if readers are interested in romance, Rescued Duty features a story of the heroine and hero who were best friends and each other anchors when they were younger. Meeting in the present day brings back old hurts and romantic feelings. As for the suspense/ danger element, it was okay. Nothing too over the top. It reminded me of a cozy mystery type story. Yes, there was fire, hanging on the side of a mountain, but readers could put the book down and come back without any worries. I would like to see more action. The story had two mystery threads that appeared to co-exist with each other. Once was solved about eighty percent in, then focused on the climactic moment before ending the story. Overall, Rescued Duty needed more suspense to fully capture the suspense readers attention and investing in the story.
I received a complimentary copy of Rescued Duty by Lisa Phillips and Laura Conway from Sunrise Publishing through JustRead Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.
Rescued Duty is an exciting story that gripped me from the start. Naya is an investigative reporter trying to get answers about water contamination by a big company in town. Zack is a firefighter who is given a cold case file by his chief to help with his hazmat training. He's totally shocked to find it's his parents' file. He and Naya grew up in foster care together and had lost touch, but now, with her reporter questions about the contamination and Zack's investigation, their cases are linked. And they're getting too close to the answers they need. With the danger growing, will they be able to expose the truth. You'll just need to get this book and read it and see. And you sure won't be sorry you did.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, and this is my honest review
If you’re looking for non-stop action, this story may be right up your alley. Truly, once the bad starts happening it doesn’t let up until the end. There are plenty of red herrings to keep you guessing about the villain’s identity. I didn’t know who the bad guy was until the end. This is part of a series and some characters show up that were featured in previous books; however, their stories aren’t key to what is happening in this book. You can read it without being lost and there are no cliffhangers. Conaway writes very well.
Rescued Duty was dangerous, action packed and suspenseful. But it was also an emotional journey which focused on growing up in the foster care system.
Both Naya and Zack had a tough time growing up, but Zack’s story of how he felt blamed for his parents’ death and also bringing trouble wherever he went, pulled me more in than Naya’s. I just have a soft spot for heroes who look rough and tough, but are hiding a soft and generous heart.
“You are a child of God. Your past does not define you. You have been made new and now live in the Spirit, producing good fruit.”
The plot surrounding the possible chemical spill was intriguing and with danger and attacks around every turn kept me in suspense right till the end.
Love this series and I'm looking forward to the next book!
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Rescued Duty By Lisa Phillips, Laura Conaway Book 5 in the Last Chance Fire and Rescue series Rating: 4/5
This action-packed thriller with romance and mystery was filled with all the things that make up a great story. The authors did an excellent job of fleshing out the main characters and giving them believable back stories with flaws and endearing traits. The mystery keeps the reader guessing until the end. The romance is sweet and messy at times with all the insecurities and feelings that happen when two broken people try to get together. I will definitely be reading more from these authors and in this series.
Highly recommend this clean, fiery romantic suspense thriller that will keep you guessing until the end.
My thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
Rescued Duty is an absolutely insane journey of a romantic suspense story between Naya and Zack!! This book was extremely enjoyable, as I really loved childhood friends: investigative reporter Naya and Rescue team member Zack come together unexpectedly as adults after a falling out they had growing up.
Naya was so diligent in her work and stopped at absolutely nothing in working to discover the truth and shed light on deserved justice for those she loved and those around her. She was willing to lay down her life for those she loved, just as Jesus had done for her. She was very admirable! Her and Ingram’s friendship was also so tender and sweet.
Zack was such an amazing male character - one of the best I’ve read in a while. From his upbringing to his manhood in the present, his journey was impeccable to watch unfold. The way he was so nurturing of Naya was so swoon-worthy, and I couldn’t get enough. He protected at all costs and it made me so nervous!
The way that every character reflected Christ in their own ways was astonishing. This story really was faith-filled and the storyline was heavily based around good vs. evil, which was such a breath of fresh air. This was so well-written and I was on the edge of my seat the ENTIRE book, as I felt I didn’t know what on earth was going to happen next - the whole book was beautiful chaos in terms of suspense - and I haven’t had a book leave me guessing quite like this in a while!
Wow, this book had me hooked from page one! I was already sold by the stunning cover, but the story inside was even more incredible. Rescued Duty delivers high-stakes romantic suspense with a perfect blend of action, faith, and second chances.
Naya and Zack’s story is a powerful tale of resilience, healing, and redemption. I loved how the authors seamlessly wove in Scripture and showcased the characters' insecurities alongside their strength. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat—I couldn’t wait to uncover who was behind the water contamination crisis!
The relationships were a highlight, especially Naya and Ingram’s bond and Zack and Eddie’s friendship. The found family vibes were everything! Zack’s journey from feeling inadequate to realizing his worth was so touching, and Naya’s determination to find the truth was inspiring.
Even without reading the first four books in the series, I had no trouble diving into this story. The twists, the action, and the heartfelt moments made this a truly memorable read. Rescued Duty is romantic suspense at its finest—don’t miss it!
Thank you to Sunrise Media Publishing, the authors, and NetGalley for a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own!
An exciting thrill ride from the first page to the last!
Rescued Duty starts off with a slow burn, setting the stage and introducing the characters. Naya is a reporter up for a possible promotion. Her assignment? Covering the current water pollution crisis in her city.
Zack is a member of the rescue squad at the firehouse and he has something to prove. A former foster kid and goofy troublemaker, his one goal? To earn his spot on the squad and prove he’s more than capable.
Circumstances forced these childhood friends apart. Now danger forces them to work together. Separate goals combine to get to the bottom of the situation. Can they learn to trust one another again?
The landscape is familiar, set in Last Chance County (don’t you just love that name?), the characters are new and fresh, and the story is gripping and intense. Excellent start to a brand new series!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. My review has not been solicited and I’m under no obligation. Highly recommended!
Rescued Duty is an action packed and faith filled novel! Zack is assigned a cold case when it leads to a shocking discovery. Can he find the murderer and keep Naya out of harms way before things turn even more deadly? This book had me hooked from the start and had me turning the pages so quick! It was so well written and had such a wonderful plot! The main thing I loved about this book was that we got to see first hand the main characters, Naya Michél and Zack Stephens, struggles as they both were in the foster care. I loved how they had each other to care for each other, and got through their struggles together.
I have loved this entire series and I can't wait to read the rest of the Last Chance Fire and Rescue series!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
A second chance romance with suspense that will keep you reading past your bed time. I love the found family aspect in this story as well! Excited to see what comes next in this series!
I received an ARC from the publisher and all opinions are my own.
“The truth is beautiful because it sheds light on darkness and exposes it.”
After investigative reporter Naya Michèl is assigned a new story, she will stop at nothing to find the truth behind water pollution issues that are plaguing her town. As Naya digs deeper into the story and begins to find unnerving clues, she finds herself caught in the crosshairs of a killer who is determined to keep the story unwritten.
During the research of a cold case that hits too close to home, the last thing Rescue Squad firefighter Zack Stephens expects to encounter is the woman who he vowed to protect when they were in foster care together as kids.
As threats escalate, can Zack keep Naya safe a second time, or will it be too late?
Guys, I LOVED this book!😍
Lisa and Laura had a truly seamless writing partnership in this book. I couldn’t tell where the authors swapped and the whole book flowed perfectly.
I adored Naya and she’s officially one of my favorite characters ever. She constantly searched for the truth, even if it was dangerous. Her heart behind why she was an investigative reporter was so heartbreaking, but also inspiring. She was able to overcome struggles in her life to achieve becoming the reporter that she was❤️
Zack was a fantastic MMC! He had such grit, resilience, and a truly remarkable heart for protecting people. He struggled a lot throughout the book and wrestled with his past, but his faith in God to get him through it was admirable.
The way Zack admired Naya as his sister in Christ as he fell in love with her was precious!🥹 one of my favorite things about this book was how Zack gently pursued Naya and fell in love with her heart for the Lord and her character.
And the plot twists!🤯 I was up WAY too late hurrying to read more because I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. Just when I thought I figured it out, I was completely caught off guard by another twist!
If you’re looking for:
💕 Second chance romance ❤️🩹 Foster care representation 🔥 Firefighter hero ✝️ Strong faith elements 🫣 Lots of plot twists
You NEED to read this book!😍
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This was such a good read. Found family is one of my favorite things in stories (and life, honestly), and this book definitely has that, plus all the fantastic humor and suspense that comes with this series. Absolutely recommend!
~~I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.~~
Rescued Duty is the first book I have read written by Laura Conaway, but not the first from Lisa Phillips. I was introduced to Lisa Phillips books and have come to know that anything by her is an instant read. Even though this is the fifth book in the series, it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone, though you can’t go wrong reading more. I personally am going to go back and read the other four books because I love a good back story. Some of the characters cross over from the other stories. This book was filled with suspense, romance, faith and a glimpse into the foster care system.
The character development was great. I loved getting to know Naya and Zack. Seeing how the two of them dealt with their past going through the foster care system and how they found healing. I loved watching them reconnect and fall in love.
The storyline and setting were good. I enjoyed all the different elements-fire rescue, investigate journalism, foster care and the suspense of who is contaminating the water. I loved the small-town setting.
The relationship between Naya and Zack was good. I appreciate the cleanness of the romance. It was just the tiniest sprinkling, which made for the perfect clean read.
Laura Conway and Lisa Phillips did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the book. I thoroughly enjoyed the reminder that God is at the center.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.
Rescue Duty is filled with faith, friendship, second chances, and suspense.
Naya and Zack are awesome! Childhood friends, who haven't seen each other in many years, but run into each again after a bridge collapse.
Laura pens a brillant mystrey throughout the novel, and I didn't know who the villain was until it was revealed.
My favourite quote is, "Pain had left marks like tattoos she hadn’t consented to on her heart. That, and a host of memories even time hadn’t been able to fade."
If you enjoy books by Lisa Phillips, Susan May Warren, Lynette Eason, Lynn H. Blackburn and Elizabeth Goddard, then I'm sure you'll enjoy Resuce Duty.
I received an ARC from sunrise publishing, but this does impact my thoughts or opinions on this review.
Once again Lisa has brought us into the lives of her characters. Linking old with new and getting us all to invest a piece of ourselves in their stories. This is a must read. I’ll be re-reading this series in preparation for the next coming out not soon enough!!
What a fantastic addition to the Last Chance County and Fire series. Rescued Duty involves Naya investigating a water contamination and Zach investigating a cold case. Naya and Zach have a past as they grew up in foster care. Rescued Duty was engaging, fast-paced, and an edge of your seat read with twists and turns, friends to more, misplaced guilt, and faith threads woven in. This is a story of loss and second chances. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When Naya learns that a coveted promotion is going to go to the reporter with the best story about the town water contamination problem, she's determined to get to the truth, not just whatever makes for the best story. But it soon becomes clear that someone doesn't want the truth to come to light. A somewhat unwilling partnership with the one person she'd thought she could rely on as a foster kid but who'd deserted her helps to uncover the truth, but raises more questions than answers. Zack is determined to keep Naya safe, but the threats are escalating. Can they discover the truth behind not only the current crisis but his parents' deaths? And will Naya ever learn to truly trust him again?
An action-packed but still romantic read, with a criminal who's willing to go to extreme lengths to silence anyone opposing them. I wasn't convinced that the motivation felt sufficient, but maybe that's not unrealistic because some people have very odd priorities in life. I did also feel perhaps the action got a little over the top (jumping from one crisis to another to another), but maybe that's just me. Regardless, it was still a 4.5 star read, because the writing was great and the story enthralling. The mystery largely kept me guessing - it seemed clear roughly where the bad guy fitted into the picture, but the exact person and full motivation was less clear until the showdown. I enjoyed watching Zack and Naya make peace with their pasts and start to forge a future together, and it was good to see the bad guys get what they deserved. All in all, looking forward to more in the series.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
If you are an adrenaline junkie, you will enjoy this action-packed mystery. Nowhere is safe and no one can be trusted. Someone has been burying something for a long time, and they do not want the truth to come out. They will stop at nothing to keep their secret hidden.
Naya and Zack make a wonderful team. Even though Naya is still hurt that Zack left her years ago, she is still drawn to him. Both Naya and Zack grew up in the foster care system, and it has molded them into the caring individuals they are today. People who pour back into their community and the lives of those around them.
I loved Zack. He had such inferiority issues and was so afraid of failing, when in reality he was shining in every area of his life. He just needed a confidence boost. Naya has lost so much and. With her writing and reporting, she always searches for the truth. Finding the truth is her motto before writing anything. There were a couple of quotes that showcased her feelings. One stated, "The truth is beautiful because it sheds light on darkness and exposes it." The other one stated, "The truth always costs something."
Naya and Zack had a strong faith, and they were not ashamed to share it. This was definitely a good versus evil story. The revelations just kept coming and the twists were shocking as I raced to the end. This was romantic suspense at its finest. It is always nice to visit Last Chance, what a perfect place for second chances.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved this novel! I’ve loved the whole series, to be honest. And the series that goes along with this one. They’re all amazing. The characters are so real and they reach out to become part of your life. This is book five in the series so you’re going to want to read them in order.
Ask other people and they might tell you you can read them out of order, but I’m a huge proponent of always reading a series in order. I feel you get the most out of the novels if you read them in order.
This one focuses on two people who were both raised in foster care. They understand each other. When Naya starts having issues Zach is there to support her. They’ve had a history together as kids. But then they fell apart. Zach was switched on where he was living and he and Naya didn’t see each other. She’s got trust issues. And he’s hunting a murderer.
Or is that a murderer hunting them? Could it be both? Or are they all connected.
You’ll love this fast-paced suspenseful romance novel. There are people dying, people killing, and oodles and gobs of things going on!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Action, courage, second chance. I’ve been looking forward to Book 5 of the Last Chance County Fire and Rescue series, Rescued Duty, and I definitely was not disappointed because I was sucked in from page one.
Laura Conaway and Lisa Phillips tend to unapologetically draw a person into their stories and they don’t turn you loose until the end. Rescued Duty is an engaging, amazing story.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from Sunrise Media Group. All opinions are my own.
**Some of my favorite lines from Rescued Duty **
She needed Zack the firefighter. The boy she had loved, who’d grown into a man, would be a distraction she didn’t need.
Naya laughed, “he’s even reminded me of the truth of God’s word.” A smile parted her lips. He’s not only shown interest in what matters to me; he cares about what Jesus is doing in me.”
Glass shattered next to them, and the window broke inward, spraying across the room. Something rolled across the floor, spewing out flames. Naya screamed, a pop followed. A woosh filled the space and the curtains caught fire.
“Naya couldn’t risk adding more damage to her battered heart. If she did, it might just break her the next time.”
Rescued Duty by Laura Conaway is way good. If you love a good mystery, second chance romance and firefighter romance then this is the book for you.
Naya is an investigator journalist, who is up for a promotion. Looking for a story she runs into an old friend/flame. I loved reading about Naya! She was a good strong female character. She had her flawless but by the end she was as working through them. I wished I read more books with investigator journalist characters. Those characters always end up on a wild adventure and I’m here for it.
Zack is part of the Firefighter Rescue Squad. He’s back in his hometown to prove that he isn’t the trouble former foster child. I could gush about Zack for hours. I loved that Zack was always trying to improve himself. He had goals and plans and he followed through with them. I loved reading about him and Naya trying to rebuild their friendship and solve a mystery.
I haven’t read a lot by Laura but this book was super good! Rescued Duty is a fast paced book. I had a hard time putting this book down to be a responsible adult. This book is part of a series but you don’t have to read the others in the series if you don’t want to. Laura does a great job at giving enough information on previous characters and books so you aren’t lost.
These thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you Sunrise Publishing for the ARC.
What is about the MMC being a firefighter that automatically makes him a 1000% more attractive?! Something about suspense involving fire just reels me in too. I think it's just that added suspense of a natural threat that cannot be controlled once it's set.
In all seriousness though, Laura and Lisa hit the mark on ALL levels with this next book from Last Chance County. I love getting to know the Rescue squad better and I am so excited for the next books in this series.
Zack and Naya were a wonderful duo. I loved learning their backgrounds and how loss and growing up in foster care fueled both of their senses of justice. And I loved how whenever things grew in difficulty, they both immediately turned to their faith.
Their story kept me hooked from the first chapter. The suspense, underlying romance and the desire for justice was perfectly etched into every page. I absolutely loved it!
This story had great characters and non stop action and drama. This clean Christian fiction is book 5 in the Last Chance Fire and Rescue series but they can all be read as stand alone books. Naya and Zack are reunited in their hometown when their different jobs seem to hold a common denominator. Both are determined to find out the truth regardless of how much danger comes their way or threats made on their lives. They use their faith and each other to help them get thru. I really liked the main characters and Zack's firefighter friends. They all showed loyalty and bravery in the face of danger and death. This story had a suspenseful plot that kept me engaged from beginning to end. I really enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.
3.5 stars Quick enjoyable read with a good storyline, and a page turner! I so enjoy the Last Chance Fire and Rescue series (they can all be read as standalones too). In Rescued Duty, the reader will find themes of growing up in foster care with the lingering effects and emotions of those years. A strong faith thread, and a decades old mystery that may be tied to a new problem. Investigative reporter Naya Michél and Rescue Squad firefighter Zack Stephens meet again after many years when a bridge she's on with protesters, collapses. Both are former foster kids and former best friends who need to unravel the past to be able to move forward. Another action packed installment in the series!
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for allowing me to read a ecopy of Rescued Duty. All opinions are my own.
This one keeps you guessing right and left! Lisa Phillips and Laura Conaway do a superb job of writing a compelling and pulse-pounding story, with relatable characters, dynamic scenes, and a plot that keeps you turning pages. I knew I enjoyed Lisa Phillips' work and this one was no different. Although I haven't read other books in the Last Chance Fire and Rescue series, I was able to follow along the story easily. Although I will say, you won't want to start reading this before bed because you'll keep turning pages! This is a story of overcoming insecurity, learning to trust, and becoming resilient. It's an absolute blast of a ride and if you enjoy anything suspense/romantic suspense, you'll want to pick up a copy!
**I read an advanced copy to review; opinions are my own!**
Rescued Duty is the first book I have read written by Laura Conaway, but not the first by Lisa Phillips. I was introduced to Lisa Phillips books and have come to know that anything by her is an instant-read. Even though this is the fifth book in the series, it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone, though you can’t go wrong reading more. I personally am going to go back and read the other four books because I love a good back story. Some of the characters cross over from the other stories. This book was filled with suspense, romance, faith, and a glimpse into the foster care system.
The character development was great. I loved getting to know Naya and Zack. Seeing how the two of them dealt with their past going through the foster care system and how they found healing. I loved watching them reconnect and fall in love.
The storyline and setting were good. I enjoyed all the different elements-fire rescue, investigative journalism, foster care, and the suspense of who is contaminating the water. I loved the small-town setting.
The relationship between Naya and Zack was good. I appreciate the cleanness of the romance. It was just the tiniest sprinkling, which made for the perfect clean read.
Laura Conway and Lisa Phillips did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the book. I thoroughly enjoyed the reminder that God is at the center.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.