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Cold Case Justice #1
Drawing Fire
One case from her past defines homicide detective Abby Hart.
With a possible serial killer stalking elderly women in Long Beach, California, Abby's best lead is Luke Murphy, an irritating private investigator who saw a suspect flee the scene of the latest homicide. When Abby discovers that the most recent victim is related to the governor, she's anxious to talk to him about a cold case that's personal to her--one Luke is interested in as well.
As she learns more about the restaurant fire that took her parents' lives years ago, Abby discovers why Luke is so invested in finding the ones responsible. The more they uncover, though, the more questions they have. Can Abby find peace without having all the answers?
With a possible serial killer stalking elderly women in Long Beach, California, Abby's best lead is Luke Murphy, an irritating private investigator who saw a suspect flee the scene of the latest homicide. When Abby discovers that the most recent victim is related to the governor, she's anxious to talk to him about a cold case that's personal to her--one Luke is interested in as well.
As she learns more about the restaurant fire that took her parents' lives years ago, Abby discovers why Luke is so invested in finding the ones responsible. The more they uncover, though, the more questions they have. Can Abby find peace without having all the answers?
416 pages, Paperback
First published May 21, 2015
330 people are currently reading
1101 people want to read
About the author
Janice Cantore
21 books800 followersA former Long Beach, California, police officer of twenty-two years, Janice Cantore worked a variety of assignments, including patrol, administration, juvenile investigations, and training. She’s always enjoyed writing and published two short articles on faith at work for Cop and Christ and Today’s Christian Woman before tackling novels. Janice writes suspense novels designed to keep readers engrossed and leave them inspired. Her first series of novels is the Pacific Coast Justice series, featuring Carly Edwards in books Accused, Abducted and Avenged. Janice also authored the Brinna’s Heart series, which includes Critical Pursuit and Visable Threat. Her latest series is the Line of Duty series, featuring Crisis Shot, Lethal Target and the soon to be released Cold Aim www.janicecantore.com and connect with her on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
March 4, 2016
3.5 stars
Drawing Fire was a good suspense. I really liked the characters and hope the next book continues with them. The story didn't really grab my attention right away, so it was a little tough to get through, but I did enjoy it overall and look forward to the next one!
*I received a complimentary ebook copy via NetGalley for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Drawing Fire was a good suspense. I really liked the characters and hope the next book continues with them. The story didn't really grab my attention right away, so it was a little tough to get through, but I did enjoy it overall and look forward to the next one!
*I received a complimentary ebook copy via NetGalley for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
April 28, 2016
Great start to the Cold Case Justice series! Janice Cantore has a gift at creating an entertaining story line with plenty of twists to keep the reader engaged.
In Drawing Fire, an interesting cast of characters come together to solve a cold case mystery. While the two main characters are Abby and Luke, readers get a taste of what is to come in the next books in the series.
I look forward to continuing the series. Drawing Fire is strongly recommended.
In Drawing Fire, an interesting cast of characters come together to solve a cold case mystery. While the two main characters are Abby and Luke, readers get a taste of what is to come in the next books in the series.
I look forward to continuing the series. Drawing Fire is strongly recommended.
October 12, 2015
Homicide detective Abby Hart became a detective for the sole purpose of possibly solving her parents murders. But she's good at her job. There's a serial killer stalking elderly women in Long Beach, California. Her best lead happens to be the only witness to see a suspect flee from the scene of the latest murder, PI Luke Murphy. Luke was in the area searching for a runaway he's tracking when he happened to see the suspect flee the scene of the crime. Abby soon learns that this latest victim has ties to the governor, a man Abby would like to question about her parents' murders. She also learns that Luke has been haunted by the same case for years. His uncle was also murdered at the same time as her parents. The two begin to compare notes and discover that they have more questions than answers. But someone doesn't want them reopening the case. This person will stop at nothing to ensure that the case remains closed.
I've read some of Janice Cantore's books before and I've enjoyed them. This book was a fast paced thrill ride to the finish. I honestly don't know why it took me so long to get to reading it other than lack of time.
Anyway, I really enjoyed getting to know Abby and Luke. Both of them were shaped by one incident. I thought I knew the direction that the story was heading, and I was quite wrong. So the twists and turns kept me interested until the end. I do want to know what will happen to them in the next book.
I received this book for free from Tyndale via NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Irene Hannon, Dee Henderson, Lynette Eason
Rating - 4 stars
I've read some of Janice Cantore's books before and I've enjoyed them. This book was a fast paced thrill ride to the finish. I honestly don't know why it took me so long to get to reading it other than lack of time.
Anyway, I really enjoyed getting to know Abby and Luke. Both of them were shaped by one incident. I thought I knew the direction that the story was heading, and I was quite wrong. So the twists and turns kept me interested until the end. I do want to know what will happen to them in the next book.
I received this book for free from Tyndale via NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Irene Hannon, Dee Henderson, Lynette Eason
Rating - 4 stars
July 30, 2015
Drawing Fire, the first book in the Cold Case Justice series, is the first book that I have read by Janice Cantore and it will definitely not be the last.
The characters were very well-written and their interactions with other characters in the book felt realistic. Detective Abby Hart and Luke Murphy, a local private investigator, are very likeable and I connected with them immediately. The situations they were in and the way they handled themselves felt true to their occupations. There was also some great tension between Luke and Abby, and some attraction that they both wanted to avoid, due to Abby’s engagement to another man.
I thoroughly enjoyed watching Abby work her cases and attempt to bring closure to the victims’ families. As Abby worked to find the guilty parties, there was another underlying theme in the book. Abby Hart desperately wanted to know who was behind the murder of her parents when she was a child. This thread of the story is so very interesting and the author did a great job of slowly revealing bits of information. She kept me guessing until the end.
I am happy to see that the story will continue in book two. This book is not a cliff hanger at all, but some portions of the storyline are still waiting to be answered. I look forward to finding out more and to visiting with these characters again. (4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The characters were very well-written and their interactions with other characters in the book felt realistic. Detective Abby Hart and Luke Murphy, a local private investigator, are very likeable and I connected with them immediately. The situations they were in and the way they handled themselves felt true to their occupations. There was also some great tension between Luke and Abby, and some attraction that they both wanted to avoid, due to Abby’s engagement to another man.
I thoroughly enjoyed watching Abby work her cases and attempt to bring closure to the victims’ families. As Abby worked to find the guilty parties, there was another underlying theme in the book. Abby Hart desperately wanted to know who was behind the murder of her parents when she was a child. This thread of the story is so very interesting and the author did a great job of slowly revealing bits of information. She kept me guessing until the end.
I am happy to see that the story will continue in book two. This book is not a cliff hanger at all, but some portions of the storyline are still waiting to be answered. I look forward to finding out more and to visiting with these characters again. (4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
June 15, 2016
I enjoyed this fast paced suspenseful story about homicide detective Abby Hart and private investigator Luke Murphy. It was interesting how the cold case of the restaurant fire that took her parents' lives is also of personal interest to Luke. It gave them a connection that was unique.
I like how Abby is precise and exacting in her work resulting in a stellar reputation and early advancement in her career. Abby is somewhat reserved due to the life she has led since her parents' death but she warms up as the story goes along.
Although Abby has reservations about Luke at first, she quickly comes to see that he's a hard-working and loyal father and son. She fights the attraction she feels because, well, she's engaged! Her fiance is out of the country and is not supportive of her career or her desire to find out who killed her parents. Luke is much more supportive and understands her drive to seek justice. I'm definitely in Luke's camp here! :)
Romance is pretty light in this book. It focuses more on the suspense. There were definitely a few twists that I didn't see coming! And although there is closure to a few things, the underlying theme of her parent's cold case continues on into the next book. I'm looking forward to reading it!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
I like how Abby is precise and exacting in her work resulting in a stellar reputation and early advancement in her career. Abby is somewhat reserved due to the life she has led since her parents' death but she warms up as the story goes along.
Although Abby has reservations about Luke at first, she quickly comes to see that he's a hard-working and loyal father and son. She fights the attraction she feels because, well, she's engaged! Her fiance is out of the country and is not supportive of her career or her desire to find out who killed her parents. Luke is much more supportive and understands her drive to seek justice. I'm definitely in Luke's camp here! :)
Romance is pretty light in this book. It focuses more on the suspense. There were definitely a few twists that I didn't see coming! And although there is closure to a few things, the underlying theme of her parent's cold case continues on into the next book. I'm looking forward to reading it!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
July 3, 2015
Drawing Fire by Janice Cantore is book one in the Cold Case Justice series.
I know you should not judge a book by its cover but I absolutely love the cover of Drawing Fire and knew I was going to like Abby before I even started reading. I was right; Abby is a very likeable character and you empathize with her along her journey. Abby has worked her way through the police force to the homicide division. She is a perfect balance of strong, tough and human.
Cantore has a perfect balance of details that make the story human and entertaining (youtube, oreos, the dog) to balance the very serious nature of the cold cases.
I highly recommend this book if you like a well written plot, developed characters and a surprise of two to make you gasp.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.
I was given the book by the publisher for an honest review.
I know you should not judge a book by its cover but I absolutely love the cover of Drawing Fire and knew I was going to like Abby before I even started reading. I was right; Abby is a very likeable character and you empathize with her along her journey. Abby has worked her way through the police force to the homicide division. She is a perfect balance of strong, tough and human.
Cantore has a perfect balance of details that make the story human and entertaining (youtube, oreos, the dog) to balance the very serious nature of the cold cases.
I highly recommend this book if you like a well written plot, developed characters and a surprise of two to make you gasp.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.
I was given the book by the publisher for an honest review.
July 6, 2015
3.5 stars
Abby's life hasn't exactly been easy, but it's about to get turned around, first by her latest homicide investigation and then by Luke Murphy.
Although present, the Christian angle is relatively low-profile: it affects the motivation of a couple of characters and provides one major plot point, but it shouldn't be intrusive for non-Christians. There were some comparisons about forgiveness, but I felt this issue could have been explored a little more. (Maybe that will come later in the series.) In essence, it's a clean thriller with a hint of romance.
It's obviously the first book in a series, but 90% of the plot set up here was resolved within, so it was only mildly frustrating at the end. Although readable, it just didn't quite click with me.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Abby's life hasn't exactly been easy, but it's about to get turned around, first by her latest homicide investigation and then by Luke Murphy.
Although present, the Christian angle is relatively low-profile: it affects the motivation of a couple of characters and provides one major plot point, but it shouldn't be intrusive for non-Christians. There were some comparisons about forgiveness, but I felt this issue could have been explored a little more. (Maybe that will come later in the series.) In essence, it's a clean thriller with a hint of romance.
It's obviously the first book in a series, but 90% of the plot set up here was resolved within, so it was only mildly frustrating at the end. Although readable, it just didn't quite click with me.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2015
Janice Cantore, a former Long Beach police officer of twenty-two years, is a well-established author of suspense but her books are – I’m embarrassed to say – new to me. Her newest release, Drawing Fire, was the first book of hers that I have read; it will most definitely not be my last! The suspense was sharply focused and action-packed, the characters were well-developed and likeable, and the faith element felt natural and ingrained. I was entertained from beginning to end … except that I wasn’t ready for it to be the end and kept frantically hitting my iphone with my finger until I accepted that you can’t turn pages that just aren’t there. A perfect setup for this first book in a new series!
On the job, Abby Hart comes across as a tough-as-nails, no-nonsense detective. And she totally is. But I loved how Ms. Cantore also gave Abby a soft side – she loves Oreos and milk, she caves to a homeless dog, she feels insecure in romantic relationships, and sometimes she just has to cry. To me, this made Abby all the more “cheer-on-able”. (Do you like my new word? Webster’s peeps should be calling any minute.)
Abby’s relationship with both Ethan and Luke gave the book some great romantic tension. Who is better for her? The man she’s known most of her life, the one who encourages her to keep some perspective besides her parents’ case, the one who proposed? Or the man who makes her heart flutter inopportunely, the one who understands how she feels about her parents’ case, the one who can’t stop thinking about her? I thought her struggle was extremely realistic – how to reconcile the feelings she had for Luke while still being true to Ethan – and I appreciated that Ms. Cantore respected Ethan enough to make sure Abby did too.
But overall, the romance plays a very small role in Drawing Fire. The star of the show here is the suspense! Screen-worthy action and fight scenes are riddled throughout the story, and several smaller cases bulk up Abby’s case load while she tries to piece together the newly revealed clues in her parents’ murders. While the book slowed in some parts, you really can’t relax ever. Blink and you’ll miss a stunning twist. (On a side note: another point in this author’s favor is that, while there are many police terms and procedures mentioned, I never felt lost and I never felt like I was reading a law enforcement textbook. It had just the right balance of information to advance the plot without drowning me in details.)
Drawing Fire is an excellent read – full of action, mystery, romance, and an underlying message of leaving room for God’s justice before we obsess over meting out our own. I give it 4 out of 5 stars and am waiting anxiously for any word on book 2 in the series to answer my lingering questions!
(I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers and Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.)
Read more here: https://readingismysuperpower.wordpre...
On the job, Abby Hart comes across as a tough-as-nails, no-nonsense detective. And she totally is. But I loved how Ms. Cantore also gave Abby a soft side – she loves Oreos and milk, she caves to a homeless dog, she feels insecure in romantic relationships, and sometimes she just has to cry. To me, this made Abby all the more “cheer-on-able”. (Do you like my new word? Webster’s peeps should be calling any minute.)
Abby’s relationship with both Ethan and Luke gave the book some great romantic tension. Who is better for her? The man she’s known most of her life, the one who encourages her to keep some perspective besides her parents’ case, the one who proposed? Or the man who makes her heart flutter inopportunely, the one who understands how she feels about her parents’ case, the one who can’t stop thinking about her? I thought her struggle was extremely realistic – how to reconcile the feelings she had for Luke while still being true to Ethan – and I appreciated that Ms. Cantore respected Ethan enough to make sure Abby did too.
But overall, the romance plays a very small role in Drawing Fire. The star of the show here is the suspense! Screen-worthy action and fight scenes are riddled throughout the story, and several smaller cases bulk up Abby’s case load while she tries to piece together the newly revealed clues in her parents’ murders. While the book slowed in some parts, you really can’t relax ever. Blink and you’ll miss a stunning twist. (On a side note: another point in this author’s favor is that, while there are many police terms and procedures mentioned, I never felt lost and I never felt like I was reading a law enforcement textbook. It had just the right balance of information to advance the plot without drowning me in details.)
Drawing Fire is an excellent read – full of action, mystery, romance, and an underlying message of leaving room for God’s justice before we obsess over meting out our own. I give it 4 out of 5 stars and am waiting anxiously for any word on book 2 in the series to answer my lingering questions!
(I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers and Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.)
Read more here: https://readingismysuperpower.wordpre...
November 2, 2018
An exciting start of the new series!
Detective Abby Hart´s parents were viciously killed 27 years ago. She is more than ready to investigate further, but she needs a reasonable proof to do so - and the cold-blood murder of an old lady might be just that. Because the old lady is blood relatives with the governor, who has been best friends with the parents. Unfortunately, the governor does not want to talk about the old case. And shockingly, the only one who gets Abby´s struggle is PI Luke Murphy, the hunky show-off of an investigator. But there is more about Luke than meets the eye, and it is not just his personal investment in the same cold case.
Yay. Finally! Ms Cantore is a former police officer with more than 20 years of police service under her belt, and it shows. Her heroine is believable and professional, which is not always the case. The novel feels very realistic. And I am so thankful for that! I sometimes suffer because of the logical issues in my mystery plots, so I am happy for the authoress who knows how to play her field.
I also love how unconventional and fierce Abby is - I love the Christian heroine who is capable, strong, struggling and not happy of the pat answers. Abby struggles with injustice - and while she longs to believe in God´s justice, she struggles with the waiting - and because she very much knows this pain, she wants to serve to bring the justice and the closure to the victims´ families. And not everyone gets her and her ideals. Certainly not her pastor fiance, who is pushing the leopardess to change her spots, to say it figuratively. But I very much get her and her passion for justice, and so does Luke, whose uncle had been murdered, too. I am happy for this love triangle, too! Love to have two good men interested in a woman - and the only one of them who truly sees the heart of the woman.
And now I am off to read the second volume in this series!
Detective Abby Hart´s parents were viciously killed 27 years ago. She is more than ready to investigate further, but she needs a reasonable proof to do so - and the cold-blood murder of an old lady might be just that. Because the old lady is blood relatives with the governor, who has been best friends with the parents. Unfortunately, the governor does not want to talk about the old case. And shockingly, the only one who gets Abby´s struggle is PI Luke Murphy, the hunky show-off of an investigator. But there is more about Luke than meets the eye, and it is not just his personal investment in the same cold case.
Yay. Finally! Ms Cantore is a former police officer with more than 20 years of police service under her belt, and it shows. Her heroine is believable and professional, which is not always the case. The novel feels very realistic. And I am so thankful for that! I sometimes suffer because of the logical issues in my mystery plots, so I am happy for the authoress who knows how to play her field.
I also love how unconventional and fierce Abby is - I love the Christian heroine who is capable, strong, struggling and not happy of the pat answers. Abby struggles with injustice - and while she longs to believe in God´s justice, she struggles with the waiting - and because she very much knows this pain, she wants to serve to bring the justice and the closure to the victims´ families. And not everyone gets her and her ideals. Certainly not her pastor fiance, who is pushing the leopardess to change her spots, to say it figuratively. But I very much get her and her passion for justice, and so does Luke, whose uncle had been murdered, too. I am happy for this love triangle, too! Love to have two good men interested in a woman - and the only one of them who truly sees the heart of the woman.
And now I am off to read the second volume in this series!
April 13, 2017
This was a page turner! Abby is an amazing detective & has quite a few haters. This story brings to life the saying "low friends in high places". The story is told in such a believable way, I googled the plot to see if it was a real story line adapted for fiction. I hope that book 2 is a continuation of the story because I'm hooked. I also need Abby to let Ethan drift right back into the friend zone!
May 11, 2015
Drawing Fire is a compelling suspense, with edge-of-your-seat action, plenty of twists and touches of faith and romance.
Detective Abby Hart's life changed the night her parents died in a fire. She changed her name, hid her identity and became set on finding those responsible for the Triple Seven fire and murders. But she was warned to investigate quietly, so she has been working her way up as a successful cop and now homicide detective. When she is called to work a second murder that points to a serial killer, she is surprised by the link to her parents' case.
Private Investigator Luke Murphy's life hasn't gone the way he expected. His wife was killed in a tragic car accident and he has raised his daughter as a single parent. He has also devoted his life to trying to solve the murder of his uncle. When a missing teen case leads him to Detective Hart, the two discover their shared interest in the Triple Seven investigation.
Drawing Fire is written in a no-nonsense, down to business way that completely embodies the police investigation and how Abby likes to handle herself. The short, sharp sentences worked well, although sometimes I felt like the story was told more than shown. Drawing Fire gives you a more typical look at crime solving life (or so I would assume). There are several cases on Abby's desk, and as her past is revealed, her parents' murder is not actually formally one of them. This means there is a lot of action and always something going on.
It was about halfway through the book that the story really picked up the pace and became un-put-downable for me. That's not to say there wasn't plenty of action beforehand, it's just that at the halfway point all the pieces started coming together, more facts about the past were being revealed and there was twist after intriguing twist. It was also about halfway through the book that Abby and Luke really start working together and the attraction starts growing - very gradually mind you. The romance never really develops. By the end of the book, you realise that Abby and Luke's story will need to be continued in book two of the Cold Case Judgement Series.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book. I can't wait to read more about Abby and Luke - theirs is a sweet story and they have a nice chemistry and a strong connection. I also want to see where they go individually in their professional roles as I have a feeling this is only going to get more exciting. While Drawing Fire has a complete storyline, there are plenty of open threads which could be followed up on. Overall, Drawing Fire was a very exciting read. The mystery felt fresh and original and there was a great balance between touches of faith and hints of romance.
The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Find this review and more like it on my blog Madison's Library.
Detective Abby Hart's life changed the night her parents died in a fire. She changed her name, hid her identity and became set on finding those responsible for the Triple Seven fire and murders. But she was warned to investigate quietly, so she has been working her way up as a successful cop and now homicide detective. When she is called to work a second murder that points to a serial killer, she is surprised by the link to her parents' case.
Private Investigator Luke Murphy's life hasn't gone the way he expected. His wife was killed in a tragic car accident and he has raised his daughter as a single parent. He has also devoted his life to trying to solve the murder of his uncle. When a missing teen case leads him to Detective Hart, the two discover their shared interest in the Triple Seven investigation.
Drawing Fire is written in a no-nonsense, down to business way that completely embodies the police investigation and how Abby likes to handle herself. The short, sharp sentences worked well, although sometimes I felt like the story was told more than shown. Drawing Fire gives you a more typical look at crime solving life (or so I would assume). There are several cases on Abby's desk, and as her past is revealed, her parents' murder is not actually formally one of them. This means there is a lot of action and always something going on.
It was about halfway through the book that the story really picked up the pace and became un-put-downable for me. That's not to say there wasn't plenty of action beforehand, it's just that at the halfway point all the pieces started coming together, more facts about the past were being revealed and there was twist after intriguing twist. It was also about halfway through the book that Abby and Luke really start working together and the attraction starts growing - very gradually mind you. The romance never really develops. By the end of the book, you realise that Abby and Luke's story will need to be continued in book two of the Cold Case Judgement Series.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book. I can't wait to read more about Abby and Luke - theirs is a sweet story and they have a nice chemistry and a strong connection. I also want to see where they go individually in their professional roles as I have a feeling this is only going to get more exciting. While Drawing Fire has a complete storyline, there are plenty of open threads which could be followed up on. Overall, Drawing Fire was a very exciting read. The mystery felt fresh and original and there was a great balance between touches of faith and hints of romance.
The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Find this review and more like it on my blog Madison's Library.
August 18, 2015
This novel was a suspenseful mystery, with multiple cases to keep track of and lots of details that I wasn’t sure if were important or red herrings to throw me off other things. It was well-written and interesting; the specifics of police life contributed to the realistic aspects of the novel without overwhelming the reader with unexplained jargon.
The characters in this novel were multi-faceted, with Abby and Luke being the most developed. I liked the different backgrounds the various characters brought to the story and how it motivated them and made their personalities more realistic. There were both likeable and unlikeable characters, and it wasn’t only the villains that that contained a mean streak at times; the shadows in each of them helped to further define and add realism to characters that may have otherwise remained flat.
I appreciated Abby’s honest spiritual struggle to seek justice while still trusting that God would hold the guilty parties responsible even if they appeared to get away with a crime in the world she inhabited. She wasn’t always successful in this tough balance, however. This particular story thread was handled in a sensitive and authentic manner and it gave the novel many natural ways to explore and affirm God as a just and loving Father without coming across as preachy.
In this fast-paced suspense story there were really three main cases we watched Abby solve or help to solve, and one that will be addressed further in upcoming novels. While I usually get frustrated at dangling loose ends once the novel closes, this story provided enough closure that I was satisfied at the end while still looking forward to the next book.
This novel is sure to please fans of Dee Henderson and Irene Hannon, really anyone who enjoys contemporary suspense or mysteries with a just a hint of romance. It is a fascinating look at what goes on behind the scenes of police work and an intriguing story of people looking for justice and healing from a tragic past.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for this honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The characters in this novel were multi-faceted, with Abby and Luke being the most developed. I liked the different backgrounds the various characters brought to the story and how it motivated them and made their personalities more realistic. There were both likeable and unlikeable characters, and it wasn’t only the villains that that contained a mean streak at times; the shadows in each of them helped to further define and add realism to characters that may have otherwise remained flat.
I appreciated Abby’s honest spiritual struggle to seek justice while still trusting that God would hold the guilty parties responsible even if they appeared to get away with a crime in the world she inhabited. She wasn’t always successful in this tough balance, however. This particular story thread was handled in a sensitive and authentic manner and it gave the novel many natural ways to explore and affirm God as a just and loving Father without coming across as preachy.
In this fast-paced suspense story there were really three main cases we watched Abby solve or help to solve, and one that will be addressed further in upcoming novels. While I usually get frustrated at dangling loose ends once the novel closes, this story provided enough closure that I was satisfied at the end while still looking forward to the next book.
This novel is sure to please fans of Dee Henderson and Irene Hannon, really anyone who enjoys contemporary suspense or mysteries with a just a hint of romance. It is a fascinating look at what goes on behind the scenes of police work and an intriguing story of people looking for justice and healing from a tragic past.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for this honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 21, 2015
Drawing Fire
Cold Case Justice 1
By Janice Cantore
For years she's hidden her true identity. The people responsible for her parents murder all those years ago could be looking for her. But Abby Hart needs to discover the truth. But she's not the only person searching for answers. Luke Murphy, a totally annoying PI, is searching for the truth behind the killings that also cost his uncle his life.
When a series of murders unexpectedly brings Abby and Luke together they agree to pool research to see if together they can discover the truth behind their shared loss. But to get to the truth they need those most closely involved in this cold case to reveal what they know. But some people feel the past is best left alone and untouched. And political aspirations could stop them dead in their tracks, literally and figuratively.
Is the truth being hidden for Abby's safety and protection? Or is the governor or his staff behind this move? A move to hide his connection to Abby's parents and Luke's uncle would be motive to keep them quiet.
If you've read Janice Cantore in the past you can expect a continuation of her superb writing style and characters with whom you can empathize. If you haven't this would be a great book with which to start. Fans of crime drama will appreciate this look into the minds of the main characters Abby and Luke as see the case through their eyes.
Don't expect a quick wrap-up to this case ~ book two promises to continue the search for the truth.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Tyndale House Publishing through BookFun/TBCN in exchange for my honest review.
Cold Case Justice 1
By Janice Cantore
For years she's hidden her true identity. The people responsible for her parents murder all those years ago could be looking for her. But Abby Hart needs to discover the truth. But she's not the only person searching for answers. Luke Murphy, a totally annoying PI, is searching for the truth behind the killings that also cost his uncle his life.
When a series of murders unexpectedly brings Abby and Luke together they agree to pool research to see if together they can discover the truth behind their shared loss. But to get to the truth they need those most closely involved in this cold case to reveal what they know. But some people feel the past is best left alone and untouched. And political aspirations could stop them dead in their tracks, literally and figuratively.
Is the truth being hidden for Abby's safety and protection? Or is the governor or his staff behind this move? A move to hide his connection to Abby's parents and Luke's uncle would be motive to keep them quiet.
If you've read Janice Cantore in the past you can expect a continuation of her superb writing style and characters with whom you can empathize. If you haven't this would be a great book with which to start. Fans of crime drama will appreciate this look into the minds of the main characters Abby and Luke as see the case through their eyes.
Don't expect a quick wrap-up to this case ~ book two promises to continue the search for the truth.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Tyndale House Publishing through BookFun/TBCN in exchange for my honest review.
November 14, 2015
Author Janice Cantore is a talented storyteller whose work rings true with the authenticity of her own law enforcement background. With "Drawing Fire" she begins her latest book series, "Cold Case Justice". Long Beach, California homicide investigator Abby Hart's adherence to her principles and her determination to bring criminal offenders to justice has earned her the nickname "Superglue". At the age of six, she had lost own parents to a still-unsolved homicide. Almost thirty years later, she is haunted by the case and resolute in her vow to find the killer of her mother and father. Conflicts over her dangerous duty are a troublesome issue between Abby and her fiancé, Ethan. His absences due to his missionary work building homes in third-world countries adds even further distance. When a possible serial killer may be stalking and claiming elderly women as his prey, Abby is brought into contact with Luke Murphy, a private investigator who witnessed a suspect fleeing one of the crime scenes. Common elements and a shared sense of uncovering the facts soon have Abby and Luke working together to solve more than one mystery. The two of them each have their own measure of faith, and as further secrets are uncovered, they must each look more deeply into the role faith plays in their lives. Learning to rely on each other, they must also learn to wary of those who will stop at nothing to keep the chill on a decades-old cold case. "Drawing Fire" is well-written crime thriller with enjoyable characters whom readers will enjoy reading more about in future entries in the series.
Review Copy Gratis Tyndale Blog Network
Review Copy Gratis Tyndale Blog Network
November 27, 2015
This book was INSANE!!! Abby is a homicide detective who is trying to love a string of murders that look like she's facing a serial killer... However the latest victim is linked to someone who knew her parents who were also murdered in a fire when she was six years old and that was never solved either. Enter handsome PI Luke Murphy, who was a witness in the latest murder and who just so happened to have lost an uncle in the same fire that killed Abby's parents. The story takes on so many twists and turns , when you think you know what's going on, you get hit with a completely different angle and so the story becomes so much more... I was genuinely sorry when it ended. I guess there is some consolation that a sequel is coming, but seriously? I want it NOW...lol. The author does such a great job developing characters and revealing back story without dragging out the present storyline. There were no pages I felt like skipping. The chemistry between Abby and Luke is also beautifully written, each gesture seems meaningful and endearing. Can't wait for the next book...MORE ABBY HART PLEASE. If you enjoy thrillers, suspense novels with a touch a CLEAN sweet romance this series is definitely a must read . ***Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review*** I enjoyed it.
July 23, 2015
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
Janice Cantore’s Drawing Fire certainly drew me into its story of interconnecting cases from the start and I just had to keep reading to discover its resolution. Homicide detective Abby Hart and private investigator Luke Murphy both do very well in their individual professions, driven by passion, faith and the same haunting cold case. As they cross paths in the pursuit of justice, they complement each other well with an undeniable chemistry and I enjoyed following both of these characters throughout the action-packed plotline. A thrilling and suspenseful novel with nearly satisfying resolution, Drawing Fire does not disappoint - though it will definitely leave readers hoping to see Abby and Luke again in a future novel. Still, I would not hesitate to recommend Cantore’s newest novel to fans of suspense.
Thanks to Tyndale BlogNetwork, I received a copy of Drawing Fire and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Janice Cantore’s Drawing Fire certainly drew me into its story of interconnecting cases from the start and I just had to keep reading to discover its resolution. Homicide detective Abby Hart and private investigator Luke Murphy both do very well in their individual professions, driven by passion, faith and the same haunting cold case. As they cross paths in the pursuit of justice, they complement each other well with an undeniable chemistry and I enjoyed following both of these characters throughout the action-packed plotline. A thrilling and suspenseful novel with nearly satisfying resolution, Drawing Fire does not disappoint - though it will definitely leave readers hoping to see Abby and Luke again in a future novel. Still, I would not hesitate to recommend Cantore’s newest novel to fans of suspense.
Thanks to Tyndale BlogNetwork, I received a copy of Drawing Fire and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
July 8, 2015
Drawing Fire is an amazing start to the Cold Case Justice series. I was drawn into the plot from the start. Janice Cantore really knows how to write an action-packed, suspense-filled book. I liked it!
Highly recommended!
5 plus stars.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review, which was given.
Highly recommended!
5 plus stars.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review, which was given.
August 7, 2015
What a neat 5 star suspense story You will thoroughly enjoy this story
Nobody should be passed over as a possible suspect. Read it, you will be surprised how they all turn out
Nobody should be passed over as a possible suspect. Read it, you will be surprised how they all turn out
November 20, 2016
DRAWING FIRE by Janice Cantore is the first in the Cold Case Justice series, and most definitely earns its “suspense” genre tag.
Homicide detective Abby Hart is good at what she does. She’s a determined, by-the-book detective. That’s why she can’t let go of the unsolved crime that took her parents life when she was just a child. The Triple Seven fire is always on her mind, and now she might get a chance to talk with a person who could shed light on that case. Unfortunately, she has to work with private investigator, Luke Murphy, as well. Luke’s reputation and notoriety bothers Abby, but when she finds out he has a vested interest in solving her parent’s case, she decides working with him is in her best interest. Abby realizes she and Luke actually work well together, and soon, Abby feels an attraction for Luke, an attraction she shouldn't have and tries to ignore.
Luke Murphy is an eyewitness in Abby’s latest case, but he also has a link to her parent’s deaths. The Triple Seven fire took the life of his uncle, and Luke wants it solved just as much as Abby does. The more time Luke works with Abby, the more he feels a connection to her. But since Abby is engaged, he keeps his feelings to himself. Working hard to stay professional, Luke and Abby uncover new leads in the Triple Seven fire, leads that someone doesn’t want them to pursue.
This is a great first installment. Cantore is methodical in her development of Abby and Luke, and the other players involved. I was completely drawn into the multiple stories being told. Not only is there a case to be solved, but we watch the progress of the Triple Seven case, and Abby and Luke’s relationship. The only negative . . . which is to Ms. Cantore’s credit, is DRAWING FIRE does not finish with loose ends tied up. The Triple Seven case goes unsolved at the end of the book, and the reader is left to wonder what will become of Luke and Abby’s attraction for each other. Ms. Cantore played her cards right. I can’t wait to delve into BURNING PROOF, book two in the series. Luckily, I already own it.
Homicide detective Abby Hart is good at what she does. She’s a determined, by-the-book detective. That’s why she can’t let go of the unsolved crime that took her parents life when she was just a child. The Triple Seven fire is always on her mind, and now she might get a chance to talk with a person who could shed light on that case. Unfortunately, she has to work with private investigator, Luke Murphy, as well. Luke’s reputation and notoriety bothers Abby, but when she finds out he has a vested interest in solving her parent’s case, she decides working with him is in her best interest. Abby realizes she and Luke actually work well together, and soon, Abby feels an attraction for Luke, an attraction she shouldn't have and tries to ignore.
Luke Murphy is an eyewitness in Abby’s latest case, but he also has a link to her parent’s deaths. The Triple Seven fire took the life of his uncle, and Luke wants it solved just as much as Abby does. The more time Luke works with Abby, the more he feels a connection to her. But since Abby is engaged, he keeps his feelings to himself. Working hard to stay professional, Luke and Abby uncover new leads in the Triple Seven fire, leads that someone doesn’t want them to pursue.
This is a great first installment. Cantore is methodical in her development of Abby and Luke, and the other players involved. I was completely drawn into the multiple stories being told. Not only is there a case to be solved, but we watch the progress of the Triple Seven case, and Abby and Luke’s relationship. The only negative . . . which is to Ms. Cantore’s credit, is DRAWING FIRE does not finish with loose ends tied up. The Triple Seven case goes unsolved at the end of the book, and the reader is left to wonder what will become of Luke and Abby’s attraction for each other. Ms. Cantore played her cards right. I can’t wait to delve into BURNING PROOF, book two in the series. Luckily, I already own it.
June 16, 2021
This was such a good book! I have read and really enjoyed a whole series from Janice Cantore and really loved it, so I was excited to start a new series from her. I was, thankfully, not disappointed! I almost immediately liked all of the characters. I thought that Abby was great, and I also liked Luke. Sometimes I feel like guys in this kind of setting can seem patronizing, but that never happened, which was good. I liked the dynamic that our two main characters had, and I'm excited to see where the romance goes. I like how Janice Cantore never seems to do a conventional relationship. I mean maybe this one is a little conventional, but I like how there is another guy that Abby just isn't throwing away. I like this slow burn situation. Sometimes romances in these sort of books can move a little fast, and I'm glad that, so far, that hasn't happened with this one. The supporting characters were also likeable and good. The plot was good. I thought the cases that they investigated were interesting, and I really liked the cold case aspect. I knew that was literally the whole point of the series, but I still really enjoyed it. I also liked how the God aspect of this book didn't feel forced. It was natural, and I just liked the way that the author handled that part of the novel. There wasn't any cursing in this book that I can recall, and there wasn't any sexual content. There was violence, but nothing over the top. This is a Christian book, so there isn't really anything that I would deem for an older middle grade reader. Having said that, I think that this book is better suited for someone who fits in the YA category or older. I just don't think that a younger reader would enjoy it or appreciate so much as an older reader. I do highly recommend this book. I thought that it was really entertaining, fast-paced, and just a good read. I will be continuing on in this series, and I am very excited to do so. There were some questions that I feel were left unanswered, and I'm just excited to see where the characters and the story goes.
September 13, 2021
I was so excited to see this first in a series of 3 books by a favorite author offered as a Bonus Borrow in August on Hoopla. Having a full slate of books to read, I grabbed it on 8/31, knowing I had 21 days to read it. I have always loved Janice Cantore's books, and had not even realized I had missed this trilogy. These books all have the same setting and apparently most of the same characters, so I absolutely cannot wait to read the rest. This first book got me off to a great start. The setting is again Long Beach (since this author is a former police officer, she knows this area and her stuff), and we have a great female protagonist in Abby. Abby, as a homicide detective, is called to a home where a second elderly woman has been killed. She has an eye witness, local PI Luke Murphy, whom she is not sure she likes. As the story progresses, Luke and Abby realize how much they have in common, with a cold case, and must work together. I believe that the synopsis of the two remaining books show that Abby and Luke will be teaming up again, so I am very excited to go back and read (via Hoopla, as I cannot find these are my library) both Burning Proof and Catching Heat. Drawing Fire was a great read!
February 6, 2017
Abby, a homicide detective in Long Beach, was the only survivor of a brutal murder and cover-up fire when she was six.
Now in her thirties and having established a solid reputation as a good detective, Abby feels it is time to make her true identity known. Unfortunately, the aunt who raised her and Abby's fiancé don't want her to pursue finding a conclusion to the case.
The only person who seems to understand Abby's need for closure and to solve the case is a private investigator who has starred in a viral YouTube video, Luke Murphy.
Abby's frustration mounts as the pieces refuse to fall into place and her fiancé continues to pressure her to not let the case take over her life, become her God, or define her.
While I can appreciate the cautionary advice of not becoming obsessed with something to the point of letting it become the central focus of your life, Ethan's attitude seems to invalidate Abby's feelings of a need for closure.
Apparently, to resolve any unanswered questions related to the murder of Abby's parents, Abby and Ethan, or Abby and Lukse, readers will have to grab the second book in the series.
Now in her thirties and having established a solid reputation as a good detective, Abby feels it is time to make her true identity known. Unfortunately, the aunt who raised her and Abby's fiancé don't want her to pursue finding a conclusion to the case.
The only person who seems to understand Abby's need for closure and to solve the case is a private investigator who has starred in a viral YouTube video, Luke Murphy.
Abby's frustration mounts as the pieces refuse to fall into place and her fiancé continues to pressure her to not let the case take over her life, become her God, or define her.
While I can appreciate the cautionary advice of not becoming obsessed with something to the point of letting it become the central focus of your life, Ethan's attitude seems to invalidate Abby's feelings of a need for closure.
Apparently, to resolve any unanswered questions related to the murder of Abby's parents, Abby and Ethan, or Abby and Lukse, readers will have to grab the second book in the series.
January 7, 2018
Janice Cantore tells such an exciting, intriguing story. I love the part that faith and trust play in this story as the heroine seeks to come to grips with what she truly believes. Often a book begins with a short explanation that the lead character is not on speaking terms with God because of certain events that have transpired. Detective Abby Hart comes to the story with a strong faith in God but we walk along with her as she starts questioning exactly what she believes. The unfolding of her struggles and questions reminded me a lot of how my faith walk has been. My life has not been a thing like hers but that makes the battles no less real. The suspense is intense from the first pages of the book to the last page. Trying to sort out the clues as the action progresses is a real challenge. Unless you stay focused, you can easily miss important details. The author has done a great job of dropping tidbits here and there that may or may not be real. Even when the hero and heroine think they are getting close, the story takes another twist and they feel like they are at a dead-end. As I came to the end of this book, I was anxious to start reading the next book in the series.
March 19, 2019
It's been some time since I've had a quiet evening to read a book in one sitting :) So nice.
This book pulled at my emotions more than most. Abby Hart wants to know what really happened when her parents were killed years ago. Who did it and why? We don't have a nice ending yet, but here's what was revealed so far:
Not a tidy ending like I'm used to but there are two more books.
This book pulled at my emotions more than most. Abby Hart wants to know what really happened when her parents were killed years ago. Who did it and why? We don't have a nice ending yet, but here's what was revealed so far:
Not a tidy ending like I'm used to but there are two more books.
May 3, 2021
I totally enjoyed this book. The mystery and suspense was perfect and the characters were great, even the bad ones! This story kept me guessing all the way to the end and threw in some curveballs and the romance was just barely there, which I like.
This is my first Janice Cantore book and it won’t be my last, in fact I have the second book in this series waiting for me. The story was perfect in development and letting you know just enough to keep you turning the page. The characters were real people, showing real emotions and dealing with the same issue with different results. You can let something eat you up inside until you are of no use, or you can learn from it and let go of the anger and hurt and know that God sees and knows everything and justice will be served.
It’s not a cliffhanger, but I’m glad I have the second book ready to read.
This is my first Janice Cantore book and it won’t be my last, in fact I have the second book in this series waiting for me. The story was perfect in development and letting you know just enough to keep you turning the page. The characters were real people, showing real emotions and dealing with the same issue with different results. You can let something eat you up inside until you are of no use, or you can learn from it and let go of the anger and hurt and know that God sees and knows everything and justice will be served.
It’s not a cliffhanger, but I’m glad I have the second book ready to read.
March 2, 2024
Drawing Fire is the first law enforcement story in the Cold Case Justice series with non-stop action and a lot of mystery. Homicide detective Abby Hart makes a great leading character with her childhood history and different relationships which adds complexity to the story. Cantore’s history as a police officer of 22 years has given her an inside understanding that has transferred to her writing an exciting and complex plotline. At the same time she has complex character development and brings scenes to life with her descriptive writing. Fantastic 5 star book!
Quote: "Forgiveness was essential, she knew, but she also knew at times it was as elusive as fragrance whisked away by a breeze.”
Quote: "Forgiveness was essential, she knew, but she also knew at times it was as elusive as fragrance whisked away by a breeze.”
January 21, 2018
Justice
Intense. This book is full of twists and turns, trying to connect all the events and see how they lead back to one event. I really liked Abby, she comes off very serious and focused. Too focused? Maybe. I like the theme of justice, do we seek justice here on
Earth or is God's judgement enough? Is it possible to let one event consume and define you, to the point it takes over your life? Read the book and see what you think. Warning, you will want to read the second one. It leaves you feeling like things aren't finished yet.
Intense. This book is full of twists and turns, trying to connect all the events and see how they lead back to one event. I really liked Abby, she comes off very serious and focused. Too focused? Maybe. I like the theme of justice, do we seek justice here on
Earth or is God's judgement enough? Is it possible to let one event consume and define you, to the point it takes over your life? Read the book and see what you think. Warning, you will want to read the second one. It leaves you feeling like things aren't finished yet.
October 24, 2024
Twenty-seven years ago, Long Beach detective Abby Hart was rescued from a restaurant fire that killed both her parents. As an adult, she is almost obsessed with the cold case, hoping to wreak justice upon the killers.
PI Luke Murphy also lost a beloved uncle in the Triple Seven fire. When he meets Abby in an unrelated case, and finds that she was the little girl who escaped the fatal fire so many years ago, he realizes that the two of them have a lot in common.
Can Abby and Luke together solve the case that has haunted both of them for so many years? Stay tuned ...
PI Luke Murphy also lost a beloved uncle in the Triple Seven fire. When he meets Abby in an unrelated case, and finds that she was the little girl who escaped the fatal fire so many years ago, he realizes that the two of them have a lot in common.
Can Abby and Luke together solve the case that has haunted both of them for so many years? Stay tuned ...
May 23, 2017
OK, this was near perfect...I'm putting it up there by my #1 favorite book (The Negotiator, by Dee Henderson). Cantore's writing keeps getting better and better! I've liked all her characters in her series, but I think Abby and Luke are my favorite. (We get a cameo appearance from a couple of characters from her Critical Pursuit series) I also love cold case stories, so this one was right up my ally. :-)
November 25, 2018
Outstanding Book
Love and hate this author, she writes stories that leave you on the edge of your seat yet like real life they don’t have a fairy tale ending. I love reading her books the stories are well written, the plots intriguing and the plots outside the box from the norm. I just hate that at the end of each one I’m still looking for more pages to read on the outcome of the characters in the story. So I grind my teeth and pick up her next book to read.
Love and hate this author, she writes stories that leave you on the edge of your seat yet like real life they don’t have a fairy tale ending. I love reading her books the stories are well written, the plots intriguing and the plots outside the box from the norm. I just hate that at the end of each one I’m still looking for more pages to read on the outcome of the characters in the story. So I grind my teeth and pick up her next book to read.
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